HGDA Vol 1 of 2024 Newsletter

Official

HARRY GWALA DEVELOPMENT AGENCY (PTY) LTD

NEWSLETTER A Year in Reflection Volume 1 of 2024

www.hgda.co.za

Message from the Chairperson HGDA Board of Directors

5 Message from the CEO 6 Meet our HGDA Team 7-20 Reflecting at Programmes 2023 at a Glance ACCRONOMYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS HGDA

: Harry Gwala Development Agency (Pty) Ltd

CEO

: Chief Executive Officer

HGDM

: Harry Gwala District Muncipality

TIKZN

: Trade and Investment KwaZulu Natal

MKI

: Moses Kotane Institute

OSS

: One Stop Shop

EDF

: Enterprise Development Fund

CTO

: Community Tourism Organisation

NSFAS

:

National Skills Financial Aid System

NYDA

:

National Youth Development Agency

CONTENTS

Editorial Note

TABLE OF

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EDITORIAL NOTE It is a privilege to be reflecting on the eventful year as the Harry Gwala Development Agency (PTY) LTD, through the first publication of this Newsletter “A Year in Reflection”.

Before we reflect, allow us to introduce ourselves as the Editorial Team of the Harry Gwala Development Agency Newsletter.

Together we are better known in the tourism space as Tourism Practitioners. Our passion for marketing the District has birthed the compilation of this publication, which we envisage will be mirrored in our efforts.

This first volume will provide an inside look into the Agency, its strategic partners and programs that have taken place over the municipal year. Let us reflect together in the journey that the Agency has travelled.

Regards: Siphokazi Mafongosi & Ntando Mbele Editorial Team:

“Unity is strength when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved.”

-Mattie Stepanek-

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 1

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRPERSON As we embark on this journey , I am honoured to address you as the Chairperson of the Harry Gwala Development Agency Board.

Our collective vision to foster sustainable development and upliftment within our communities is both inspiring and vital.

First and foremost, I wish to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to governance excellence. The principles of transparency, accountability, and integrity will continue to guide our actions as we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. Upholding the highest standards of governance ensures that our operations are conducted ethically and effectively, thereby safeguarding the trust and confidence of all stakeholders.

Attracting and retaining investment remains at the heart of our mandate. We recognize the importance of economic growth through investment and we aim to create meaningful impact and improve the quality of life for all residents within the Harry Gwala District.

Our focus extends beyond the present to embrace the future needs and aspirations of our region. Through strategic planning and collaboration, we endeavor to foster innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth. Embracing emerging trends and harnessing the potential of technology will enable us to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.

In closing, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence, equity, and empowerment. By working together with purpose and passion, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

Regards,

Board Chairperson: Harry Gwala Development Agency MS. S. B DLUNGWANE

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 2

The Harry Gwala Development Agency (HGDA) is a special purpose vehicle mandated to manage and implement development projects within the Harry Gwala District Municipality (HGDM),

VISION “ A POLYCENTRIC RESOUCE ABUDANT INVESTMENT GATEWAY WITH ABSOLUTE TRANSFORMATIVE REGIONAL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT BY 2063"

MISSION “TO DELIVER WITH INTEGRITY, PROACTIVITY AND RESPONSIVENESS, A PLATFORM FOR THE SHARED GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OF HARRY GWALA DISTRICT” Polycentric: nodal development across HGDM responsive to the Eastern Seaboard and catalytic projects Resource Abundant: natural resources (water, air, landscape, energy) inclusive of human resource development / skilled workforce Investment: GKM economic hub, investment potential, abundance of land – need to create different areas of growth in varied or specific economic sectors Gateway: Into KZN from Eastern Cape and into the Republic from the Kingdom of Lesotho Transformative regional growth and development: addressing spatial divide through cluster development with foci on rural development and integration.

2063: Long term development due to magnitude of projects – aligned to African Union Agenda to advance development into SADC

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 3

HGDA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

MS S B DLUNGWANE AREA OF SPECIALITY: CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT

MS P NZIMAKWE AREA OF SPECIALITY: AUDITING

MR S I MBHELE AREA OF SPECIALITY: LAW

MR S MABASO AREA OF SPECIALITY: LOCAL GOVERNMENT

MR B M MHLONGO FINANCE & COMMERCE FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 4

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO Having taken the realm in July 2022, together with existing officials and ones who have joined us in our journey, we have reaffirmed our commitment to not only foci on catalytic projects but also to ensure that we make a meaningful impact at socio-economic levels.

Notwithstanding reputational damage, we are most proud of the collaborative efforts of the Board led by Ms. Dlungwane and all officials of the Agency. We invite you to journey with us to “A District Reimagined”

Ms. A C R Whyte CEO : HGDA

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 5

MEET OUR HGDA TEAM OFFICE OF THE CEO

PA TO THE CEO/ OPERATIONS OFFICER: MS. Z VENDLE

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER: MS. A.C.R WHYTE

CORPORATE SERVICES

ACTING CORPORATE SERVICE MANAGER: MRS. N KHOZA

EXECUTIVE SUPPORT: MR S. N KHOZA

INTERN: MS. Z NDYEBO

OFFICE OF THE CEO INTERN: MS. M JINXI

FINANCE

INTERN: MS. N MBHELE

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

STRATEGIC PROJECTS MANGER: MR . P FAKUDE

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER: MR LL MAKHAYE

PA TO THE CFO: MS. T MKHIZE

SCM INTERN MS. S SOSIBO

EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTANT: MS. P NKOSI

SCM INTERN: MR. S MBANJWA

INTERN: MS. S MBANJWA

SCM CLERK: MS. N MALUNGA

SCM INTERN: MS. A MBHELE

MANAGER LED AND TOURISM: MS. Z MKULISI

LED INTERN: MR. M MEMELA

TOURISM OFFICER: MRS. S MAFONGOSI

LED INTERN: MS. B DLLAMINI

OSS ADMINISTRATOR MS. P JAMA

TOURISM INTERN: MR. MBELE

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 6

REFLECTING ON PROGRAMMES 2023 At a Glance.

Harry Gwala District Mayor Cllr. Z.D Nxumalo at the Greater Kokstad Golf Course.

The Mayoral Golf Day The Mayoral Golf Day, a prelude to the Investment Summit was held on the 04th of March 2023 at the Greater Kokstad Golf Course. Setting the stage for fruitful collaborations and discussions aimed at fostering economic growth and development.

With more than 60 golfers in attendance from various golf clubs in and outside of the district bounds, participants engaged in conversation, exchanged ideas and insights on how best to leverage on the region’s resources and potential.

Moreover, the event provided a platform for stakeholders to showcase the regions untapped potential and investment opportunities.

With each swing of the golf club and each handshake exchanged, the Mayoral Golf Day stands as a beacon of inspiration, igniting the flames of possibility and charting a course towards a brighter future for the Harry Gwala District.

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 07

DISCUSSIONS BEYOND THE GREEN TO SEAL PARTNERSHIPS.

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 08

Harry Gwala District One Stop Shop launched by MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Mr. Siboniso Duma and Harry Gwala District Deputy Mayor, CLLR T. N Jojozi

One Stop Shop The Harry Gwala District One Stop Shop serves its second quarter after the successful launch in June 2023. It has been operational for more than 6 months, serving as an enabler to local businesses to gain access to the economic, regulatory, legal and compliance environment as well as investment facilitation. It accommodates services from Trade and Investment KwaZulu Natal and other entities that provides various services and products.

Services offered at the One Stop Shop include: Business registration, annual returns and company amendments SARS Tax compliance pins, e-filling profiles and tax number National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) application, Enable accessibility to departments/entities (Ithala, Tourism Grading Council, Food Safety Agency and more) Facilitate access to business opportunities.

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 09

Harry Gwala Techno Hub launched by MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Mr. Siboniso Duma

Harry Gwala Techno Hub The Harry Gwala Development Agency Techno Hub is poised to accelerate economic prosperity in the region. The facility has been launched as a product of a partnership agreement featuring the Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and Moses Kotane Institute.

The Objectives of the Techno Hub include: Enabling access to information and infrastructure for skills development Promoting technology and innovation related activities in townships and rural areas, Providing world class infrastructure in an environment that will promote social and business interaction, Enhancing innovation support for entrepreneurs and innovators in the rural and township areas and also Developing business activities that will add value to stakeholders.

The strategic partnership between the Agency and Moses Kotane Institute has resulted in access to technology by providing technological training to 151 young people throughout the Harry Gwala District from the time of the Techno Hub’s establishment and launch.

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 10

TRAINING UNDERWAY AT THE TECHNO HUB.

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 11

IMPORTANCE OF PARTNERSHIPS

Pictured above are the strategic partners of the Agency

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 12

PARTNERSHIPS THAT WORK. TRADE AND INVESTMENT KZN: Collaborations on the HG One Stop Shop, Established and launched on 06 June 2023 MOSES KOTANE INSTITUTE : Establishment of the Techno Hub – To date training of 30 Youth in digital economy DTIC, DSBD, MISA AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS: On the implementation of the Eastern Seaboard Development, industrial development, SMME support SUMITOMO-DUNLOP: Establishment of tyre fitment centres 4 x Tyre Fitment containers in all four local municipalities.

ADNOTES and CSIR: HGDA premises are now a Free Wi-fi zone (operational) NYDA: SIMAMA NPO / CAREERS: Assistance with Career guidance, tertiary institution application and NSFAS applications BYTEFLOW / G2 COMMUNICATIONS: Establishment of Call Centre – currently employing 34 youth – partnership with NARYSEC for additional 15 and commitment with Byteflow to add 15 bring the total to 64 by February 2024

MCD / PHAMBILI ENERGY SOUTH: AFRICA: Biomass Factory – Donnybrook

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 13

Mr S Duma, CLLR T N Jojozi, Deputy Mayor of Umzimkhulu Local Municipality, CLLR B Lukhakhayi and Mayor of Ubuhlebezwe Local Municipality, CLLR E B Ngubo

ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT FUND The Harry Gwala Development Agency (HGDA) launched the Enterprise Development Fund (EDF), to provide funding support to small enterprises (SMME’s and Cooperatives) across priority sectors of the economy.

The EDF was divided into two (2) phases and its objective cemented to support projects which contribute to economic development, through the creation and retention of jobs and to provide evidence of sustainability, building local partnership groups, alignment of projects with economic development opportunities in the area and to exploit local competitive advantage through providing equity funding for projects that could result in one or more of the following: Sustainable job creation Poverty reduction specifically among historically disadvantaged individuals Generation of additional sources of income Securing better quality of life in communities in the context of socioeconomic development through improving local economic and social infrastructure.

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 14

INVESTMENT SUMMIT

Harry Gwala District Mayor Cllr. Z.D Nxumalo delivering the Key Note Address at the Investment Summit

The HGDA hosted a successful investment summit on 07 June 2023 under the theme of “a re-imagined District”. The purposes of the Summit were to derive the following successful outcomes: To provide solutions to business, private investment and community identified challenges.

Presentation of Catalytic Projects Signing of the Social Compact Strengthening partnerships – KZN Growth Fund, Durban Chamber of Commerce and TIKZN The attendees were Potential Investors Business fraternity (formal), key role players in economic development and investment promotion.

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 15

RESOLUTIONS FROM THE INVESTMENT SUMMIT. On the Eastern Seaboard Development: Finalisation of the RSDF and Renewal Energy Masterplan, the studies are being used to develop business plans especially for solar and wind generated energy (Draft Green Economy Strategy, Development of Infrastructure Masterplan in progress.

ON POLICY LINKAGES:IDP and Growth and Development Strategy that promotes partnerships and encourage diversification (e.g., benefit of agri-processing throughout the entire value-chain, tourism, manufacture and aquaculture as other sectors for development); small business development prioritized and economic planning using spatial development frameworks, value chains, development corridors and the green economy.

The New Growth Path (NGP):Realignment of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) to ensure diversified and sustainable approach to access to work opportunities, increased public infrastructure. To broaden LED to include other drivers of economic growth like the green economy.

Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP): A three-fold approach: to promote labour-absorbing industrialization, to broaden participation and economic transformation and to raise competitiveness with manufacturing as a key anchor of development.

HGDA Response: Strengthening of partnerships for government-business-labour engagements, investment in skills development, expanding economic corridor linkages within and beyond the borders of South Africa (i.e., Gateway into KZN and South Africa) and strengthening governance and intergovernmental agenda (i.e., red tape reduction, collective planning responsive to LED).

Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA), 2013: Introduces a series of strategic and practical instruments that are available to all spheres of Government on land use. These provisions include development principles, spatial development frameworks, municipal land use schemes, municipal planning tribunals and appeal authorities. It also ensures that all sectors and spheres of government and traditional authorities are included in municipal land use decisions.

SPLUMA provides for: a)A uniform and comprehensive system of spatial planning and land use, facilitating a more central and much needed role within LED; b)A system of spatial planning and land use management which promotes social and economic inclusion; c)The sustainable and efficient use of land, with the potential to increase its productivity; d)Redressing imbalances of the past to ensure that there is equity in the application of spatial development planning and in land use management systems.

HGDA Response: Reduction of red tape in the land development processes and building plan approval processes inclusive of over-rigorous zoning and town-planning regulations.

RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: Exploring socio-economic opportunities. ·Opportunities that exist in the regional and local context (see key sectors) ·Planning and development towards investment in small town (industrialization and formalization) ·Access to land: Agriculture, agri-processing, manufacturing ·Opportunities in the Green Economy RADICAL ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION: Opportunities and programmes towards accelerating economic development.

•RASET / Operation VULA •Black Industrialists Programme •Rural / Township revitalization •Small Business and targeted sector development •Economic growth for employment creation •Facilitating the strengthening of informal economy – transitioning from survivalists SKILLS DEVELOPMENT AND CAPACITY BUILDING: Accelerating youth and sector specific economic empowerment through skills development and innovation •Skills Transfer / Capacity Building incl Mentorship •Poverty Alleviation – Government responsive programmes •Access to Markets •Unemployed Graduate Initiative FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 16

WOMEN IN BUSINESS SERMINAR In celebrating Women’s Month and commemorating the significant role of women in society, The Harry Gwala Development Agency hosted a two days Women in businesses seminar on 23 and 24 August 2023 under the theme: “Pitch your success” The purpose of the seminar was to afford women within the Harry Gwala District support in their entrepreneurial endeavours.

Under the theme “Pitch your Success”, women from all economic sectors pitched their business to a panel of judges.

25 businesses attended the pitch and only 4 were recommended claiming the following positions and Women in Business at the Seminar value of support towards their businesses.

These included: 1st : NM Squeeky Cleaners (support to the value of R120 000) 2nd : Anaso Trading (support to the value of R80 000) 3rd : uMnisi Agri (support to the value of R50 000) 4th : Blac Distinxion (support to the value of R25 000)

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 17

RURAL SCHOOLS VISITATION CAMPAIGN His Worship the Mayor of Harry Gwala District Municipality, Cllr. Z D Nxumalo, on 30 September 2023 embarked on a campaign of visiting rural schools within the district. It is on this campaign that school uniforms were donated as part of an initiative to encourage learners to focus and resist any distraction that could hinder their success at school.

The Mayor visited UMzimkhulu, Ubuhlebezwe, Kokstad and Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma Local Municipalities. A total amount of R100 000 was allocated for the school uniforms drive and each school visited received uniforms worth R25 000. The following schools were visited: Summerfield Primary School Nomzamo Primary School Sangcwabe Primary School Ngcesheni Primary School The Harry Gwala District Mayor was accompanied by Ubuhlebezwe Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr. E B Ngubo, the Speaker of Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma Local Municipality, Cllr. S Phoswa and Kokstad businessman, Mr. M Ndongeni of Masiqhame Trading 22. Mayor Nxumalo expresses the importance of supporting rural schools and encouraged learners to do well at school. “It is important to us as government that rural schools get the necessary support and encouragement. We want to see mayors and ministers coming from these rural schools. we thought it would be important that we visit all four of our local municipalities and identify schools to support with uniforms. By coming here we want our learners to know that we support them and we want them to be educated.

8FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 18

Tourism officials and members of the CTO conducting tourism business audit within Ubuhlebezwe Local Municipality

RE-ESTABLISHMENT OF COMMUNITY TOURISM ORGANISTIONS To ensure that tourism is coordinated effectively, through functional tourism structures, such as Community Tourism Organisation’s (CTO’s), the Agency embarked on a comprehensive audit of tourism businesses within the Harry Gwala District.

The initiative held multiple objectives, with a primary focus on supporting the reestablishments of CTO’s, whilst establishing an extensive database of tourism businesses through an audit that will determine informed interventions to enhance visitor experiences, as well as to encourage tourism product owners to affiliate with a local CTO.

Number of tourism businesses audited in 2023 vs affiliation to a CTO

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 19

YOUTH IN BUSINESS DIALOGUE The Youth in Business Dialogue which took place at the Harry Gwala Development Agency workplace premises in Ixopo on the 05th of December 2023, aimed at providing a platform for emerging and existing young entrepreneurs to exchange knowledge on essential areas such as accessing funding and partnering with other organizations.

The Youth in Business Dialogue was attended by various local, provincial and national stakeholders which included: • Panda Mo • The Office of the Premier • The National Youth Development Agency • Food Safety Agency • Department of Small Business Development • Simama Centre for Career and Professional Development • The Harry Gwala District Municipality ( Youth Office

Discussions held with Youth Enterprises at the Youth in Business Seminar.

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 20

His Worship, The Harry Gwala District Municipality Mayor, CLLR Z D Nxumalo, Harry Gwala Development Agency CEO, Ms A C R Whyte, Greater Kokstad Local Municipality Mayor, CLLR M Madikizela and Mr H Nkonjela from SRSA at Shayamoya community hall in Kokstad.

TYRE REPAIR AND FITMENT FACILITIES HANDOVER The handover of four fully fitted tyre repair and fitment facilities took place in all the four local municipalities of the Harry Gwala District, namely UMzimkhulu Local Municipality (at Entsikeni village), Ubuhlebezwe Local Municipality (at Ncalu river lodge), Dr Nkosazana Dlamini – Zuma Local Municipality (at Enkwezela village in Bulwer) and Greater Kokstad Local Municipality (at Shayamoya Community Hall) on the 19th of December 2023.

The tyre fitment programme is a result of the partnership between the Harry Gwala Development Agency (PTY) LTD and Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (SRSA) which aims to promote enterprise development, create entrepreneurial culture and promote self - reliance, provide opportunities to increase access to employment chances, skills development and innovation and also to revitalize township economies.

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 21

Hr. Mayor of Greater Kokstad Local Municipality, CLLR M Madikizela at Shayamoya Community Hall during the Handover.

The HGDA – Dunlop tyre repair and fitment facilities programme was led by: His Worship, the mayor of Harry Gwala District, Cllr ZD Nxumalo Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of HGDA, Ms. ACR Whyte HGDA LED and Tourism manager, Ms. Z Mkulisi and Accounts manager – Enterprise development SRSA Mr. H Nkonjela

Mayors of Local Municipalities that were present at the programme were as follows: Greater Kokstad Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr M Madikizela UBuhlebezwe Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr EB Ngubo UMzimkhulu Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr J Mzizi Dr Nkosazana Dlamini – Zuma Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr PS Msomi Recipients of the Tyre Repair and Fitment Facilities were as follows: Mr. L Lutshaba (Greater Kokstad Local Municipality) Mr. A Zulu (Ubuhlebezwe Local Municipality) Mr. O Jili (UMzimkhulu Local Municipality) Ms. T Phungula (Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini – Zuma Local Municipality) Also present at the programme were: Honourable speaker, Cllr BT Nozaza (Greater Kokstad Local Municipality) Cllr S Mbatha (Ubuhlebezwe Local Municipality) Cllr K Mafuleka (UMzimkhulu Local Municipality) Cllr BB Khathi (Dr Nkosazana Dlamini – Zuma Local Municipality)

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 22

Tyre Fitment location: Ncalu Lodge

Tyre Fitment Location : Entsikeni

Tyre Repair and Fitment Facilities Handover Throughout the Harry Gwala District

Tyre Fitment Location : Shayamoya

Tyre Fitment Location :Donnybrooke

FEBRUARY 2024 | PAGE 23

UPCOMING EVENTS

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PROGRAMMES Youth In Business

NOTES

HARRY GWALA DEVELOPMENT AGENCY (HGDA) Harry Gwala Farmers Market, Erf 2226 Portion 27 of the Farm Ellerton, IXOPO 3276 M: 079 287 9593 Email: ceo@hgda.co.za Website: www.hgda.co.za