Business leaders, entrepreneurs and government officials in KwaZulu-Natal are currently engaging on critical issues impacting small enterprises across the province.
These role players are gathered at the 2025 Umyezane Summit, Conference and Awards, which is taking place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre and hosted by the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA).
Addressing the opening of the summit on Monday, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli emphasised the pivotal role played by small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in driving economic transformation and creating jobs within the province.
“The growth of SMMEs is central to building a resilient and inclusive economy. Through initiatives like the Umyezane Summit, we aim to empower small businesses, strengthen township and rural economies, and ensure that historically disadvantaged entrepreneurs are given meaningful opportunities to thrive,” Ntuli said.
He highlighted the provincial government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for entrepreneurs by addressing barriers including crime, access to funding, and market opportunities.
The summit and accompanying awards reflect the provincial government’s vision of fostering a thriving, inclusive economy driven by small enterprises.
Ntuli assured entrepreneurs that KwaZulu-Natal remains committed to policy reforms, financial support, and capacity-building programmes that will position SMMEs as key drivers of economic growth.
EDTEA MEC Musa Zondi noted the importance of public-private partnerships in unlocking economic opportunities for SMMEs.
“We must remove red tape, foster innovation and create sustainable pathways for small businesses to succeed in both local and global markets,” Zondi said.
The summit features panel discussions, policy dialogues, and networking sessions, where stakeholders engaged on topics including:
• Crime and business security – Addressing the impact of crime on small businesses and strategies to enhance security.
• Regulatory and policy compliance – Simplifying business registration and licensing processes.
• Revitalising township and rural economies – Exploring innovative approaches to support businesses in historically underserved areas.
• Access to funding and market opportunities – Strengthening financial support mechanisms for SMMEs.
• The Black Industrialists Programme – Accelerating transformation by expanding support for Black-owned enterprises in key sectors.
Recognising excellence in entrepreneurship
During the award ceremony on Monday, Ntuli commended the recipients for their dedication and contribution to economic development, reaffirming government’s ongoing support for the province’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The awards celebrated outstanding entrepreneurs, who have demonstrated resilience, innovation, and business excellence in KwaZulu-Natal, including youth and women-owned businesses, rural enterprises, and emerging industrialists.
The summit ends today. – SAnews.gov.za
