KZN's informal economy masterplan aims to empower township businesses
The Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs has finalised the KZN Informal Economy Masterplan, which aims to boost the informal or township economy.
The Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs has finalised the KZN Informal Economy Masterplan, which aims to boost the informal or township economy.
Speaking recently while tabling his budget for the 2025 financial year, MEC Musa Zondi said, 'We have always recognised the pivotal role that the township and rural economy plays in the broader economic development strategy of KwaZulu-Natal.
'We are pleased to announce that we have finalised the KZN Informal Economy Masterplan: a blueprint to formalise, support, and elevate informal businesses through licensing systems, compliance support, and investment in shared infrastructure.'
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'The shared nature of the facility also promotes inclusive participation by cooperatives, small farmers, and youth-led enterprises—creating jobs, stimulating entrepreneurship, and contributing to local revenue,' he added. 'As the Committee, we will ensure there is strong oversight to avoid gatekeeping and ensure that this project becomes a model of rural industrial development, with broad-based participation and tangible benefits for the people of Bergville and the province at large," the chairperson concluded. THE MERCURY
