Durban to Host Pivotal Conference on Inclusive Economic Growth

Anticipation is mounting as the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban prepares to host the reSURGEnce Conference Durban 2025 on September 22 and 23.

This latest edition of the reSURGEnce Conference, which is aimed at catalysing inclusive economic growth through strategic investments, has been fully booked.

The event will gather global leaders, investors, and changemakers, all committed to redefining Africa’s socio-economic landscape for the better.

The conference promises to be a melting pot of innovative ideas and actionable strategies across various sectors, including property development, agro-processing, and beyond.

With focused streams such as "Durban as a Tech Hub," "Empowering Africa," "Creative Economy," and "Future Shaped Today," attendees can expect in-depth discussions on the prospects for transformation through innovation, investment, and inclusive development.

Among the distinguished speakers are notable figures like Ndaba Mandela, co-founder and chairman of the Mandela Institute for Humanity, and Dr Alexander Chisango, president of the World Economic Congress.

The roster also includes Dr George Fraser, founder and CEO of FraserNet Inc. in the US; Dr Mzamo Masito, Africa regional lead at Canva; and Dr Heather Bain, managing director of ATB Global Mobility Inc.

Other respected speakers will include Thebe Ikalafeng, founder of the Brand Leadership Group; Dr Michael Roberts Sr, a prominent hotelier and real estate investor; and Dr Shem Ochuodho, a pioneer and diaspora leader from Kenya, who will also contribute their insights.

The conference will feature a rich agenda that traverses a range of compelling topics.

From impact investing and infrastructure-led growth to discussions on digital innovation, creative industries, diaspora collaboration, and youth entrepreneurship, delegates can expect a comprehensive exploration of the challenges and opportunities facing the continent.

Crucially, the event will underscore Durban’s emerging status as a coastal innovation hub and a strategic gateway to African markets, setting the stage for impactful global partnerships.

By fostering dialogue on these critical themes, the conference aims to ignite the collaborative spirit essential for driving Africa’s prosperity.

In preparation for the conference, a webinar hosted by CNBC Africa on 11 September laid the groundwork for discussions to come.

Among the speakers, Reverend Dennis Dillon, US convener of reSURGEnce, emphasised the need for stronger links in tourism and agro-processing between Durban and international partners. Meanwhile, US chef Cobra Bhengu, head chef at Mushroom Lounge (Umhlanga), highlighted culinary entrepreneurship as a pathway to global collaboration.

Achumboro Ataande, CEO of Uplift Communities, stressed the importance of investment, while eThekwini City Manager Musa Mbhele called for enhanced international ties as part of South Africa's growth strategy.

DAILY NEWS