Councillor Thembo Ntuli on how the Durban Business Fair is transforming the landscape for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in eThekwini,
Image: Supplied
THERE is a clear distinction between talking about economic empowerment and delivering it in practice. The eThekwini Municipality’s flagship Durban Business Fair is one platform where implementation is taking place.
The 28th Durban Business Fair, held from April 29 to May 2 at the Durban Exhibition Centre and Durban ICC, demonstrated what is possible when the right support structures are in place.
A total of 18 743 visitors engaged directly with entrepreneurs, reinforcing a simple truth: access to markets drives the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
For many entrepreneurs, the Fair is more than an exhibition; it is a turning point. Sithembile Ndlovu of Mushroom Queen secured new restaurant deals and expanded her supplier network, describing the experience as highly impactful, particularly as a first-time exhibitor. Gugu Nyakata of GM Aura Perfumes generated immediate sales and continues to receive bulk orders.
These outcomes reflect sustained investment in enterprise development that is delivering tangible results.
Over the past 27 years, the Municipality has invested more than R400 million into the Durban Business Fair, supporting over 40 000 businesses and contributing to more than 22 000 sustainable jobs. Behind these figures are real enterprises, real employment, and stronger communities.
The Fair extends beyond sales, exposure and networking. It also focuses on capacity building and unlocking opportunities. This year, R550 000 in bursaries was awarded to 10 young entrepreneurs through the Newbridge Graduate Institute, providing access to formal qualifications in customer management. In addition, 16 businesses received commercial printers sponsored by Boxer, enabling them to scale their operations.
The Durban Business Fair Best Stand Awards continue to raise standards. About R500 000 in support was awarded to the top three exhibitors in recognition of innovation, professionalism and growth readiness. Elo Interiors, Marcus Mkhasibe and Noor Scents received enterprise development support in the form of equipment aligned to their business needs, along with memberships to Proudly South African and the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, exhibition opportunities and additional business support.
This recognition encourages businesses to improve, compete and grow.
Skills development remains a key pillar of the Fair. Masterclasses covered supply chain management, digital marketing and intellectual property, equipping entrepreneurs with practical tools for immediate application.
The supply chain management session provided guidance on the City’s online invoicing system, tender processes and compliance requirements, helping businesses position themselves for municipal opportunities.
The Durban Business Fair International Pavilion continues to expand opportunities beyond local markets. With participation from India, Belgium, Côte d’Ivoire and France, businesses are exploring export potential and building global connections. This is how local enterprises move beyond survival and toward competitiveness.
The presence of the Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, reinforced the importance of MSMEs in driving inclusive growth. Supporting local businesses is not optional; it is essential. When we buy local, we support jobs and strengthen the economy.
The Durban Business Fair demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration between government, private sector partners and communities. Since its inception in 1998 with fewer than 100 exhibitors, it has grown into a leading platform for enterprise development.
Its true value lies in its impact on people’s lives.
As a Municipality, we will continue to strengthen and expand this platform so that more entrepreneurs can access opportunities and support. The work does not end when the exhibition closes; it continues in the growth of businesses and the jobs they create.
The Durban Business Fair remains an engine of economic transformation. As we prepare for future editions, we encourage more partners to come on board and help take entrepreneurship in eThekwini to greater heights.
*Councillor Ntuli is the chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee.
*The opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of the newspaper.*
DAILY NEWS