Business leader Vivian Reddy announces a significant R100 million pledge to support social development initiatives across KwaZulu-Natal.
Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers
Businessman and philanthropist Vivian Reddy has pledged R100 million towards social development initiatives across KwaZulu-Natal, continuing his long-standing commitment to community upliftment and inclusive development in the province.
Reddy made the announcement while delivering a keynote address at a Social Development Partnership event, where he emphasized the critical importance of collaboration between government, business, and civil society in addressing the social and economic challenges facing communities.
In his address, Reddy said: “A society is not judged by the wealth of its richest citizens, but by how it cares for its most vulnerable people.”
He noted that the R100 million pledge will support a range of social development initiatives, including skills development programmes, community facilities, healthcare services, and projects aimed at empowering women, youth, and vulnerable families.
Reddy highlighted that sustainable development requires strong partnerships that combine government leadership, private sector investment, and community participation.
“Social development is not charity; it is nation building. When we invest in people, we invest in the stability and future prosperity of our communities,” he said.
He also reflected on the work of the Sibaya Community Trust, of which he is the founder and chairman. To date, the Trust has contributed more than R275 million in support of over 175 community and welfare organisations across KwaZulu-Natal.
Through the Trust, numerous projects have been supported, including old age homes, skills training centres, educational facilities and classrooms, community health clinics, shelters for abused women and children, and various community upliftment programmes.
Reddy said that his latest pledge will build on this strong foundation and further strengthen social infrastructure across the province.
“Strong communities are the foundation of a strong economy. Business must play a meaningful role in building opportunity, dignity, and hope for those who need it most.”
He challenged leaders across sectors to work together to build a more inclusive and resilient society. The pledge represents one of the most significant recent private sector commitments to social development in Durban and the broader KwaZulu-Natal province.
In response to Reddy's gesture, Social Development MEC Mbali Shinga remarked that earlier in her tenure, she had emphasized the need to shift from welfare to development, which had previously existed mostly on paper.
“Since then, we have provided skills training to many young people and women. To date, many have graduated and are either employed or have ventured into entrepreneurship. Many have seen this, and today is their opportunity to partner with the department. I am grateful to Mr Vivian Reddy and Sorisha Naidoo for their R100 million contribution,” Shinga said.
She added that the department’s role is to ensure that they reach the most vulnerable in communities and that every cent is accounted for.
DAILY NEWS