MINISTER NDABENI OPENS DBF WITH STRONG CALL TO SCALE LOCAL BUSINESSES
- May 1
- 2 min read
With a firm call to turn constitutional rights into real economic opportunity, the Durban Business Fair exhibition was officially opened on 30 April, at the Durban Exhibition Centre by Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni, alongside the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Chairperson, Councillor Thembo Ntuli.
Setting a decisive tone, Minister Ndabeni, also the District Development Model Champion for eThekwini, positioned entrepreneurship as central to achieving true economic freedom.
She stressed that Section 22 of the Constitution must be realised through deliberate support for enterprise:
“It is not enough to enshrine it in law; we must create conditions that enable people to exercise it meaningfully through enterprise and participation in the economy.”
She reaffirmed that Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are the backbone of the economy, driving job creation and inclusion.
Highlighting government support, the Minister outlined interventions, including funding instruments, credit guarantees, and asset-based financing, to ensure that “a brilliant business idea is never killed by a closed door at a bank.”
She also linked local growth to continental opportunity through the African Continental Free Trade Area and urged support for local businesses:
“When we buy local, we support jobs and invest in South Africa’s future.”
Following the opening, the Minister, Councillor Ntuli, and stakeholders conducted a walkabout, engaging exhibitors including Vukari Art, Asemahle Creations, the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA), Magnificent Bags, Marcus Mkhasibe, Modesta, The 5th, Sibocali Foods, and the Furniture Pavilion.
At Vukari Art, where the Minister purchased an African animal skin product, founder Nonhlanhla Xulu said:
“This is a proud and emotional moment for my business. Having the Minister recognise and support my work gives me hope to grow and reach new markets.”
Councillor Ntuli said:
“As eThekwini Municipality, we remain committed to building an inclusive and thriving economy. Over 27 years, we have invested more than R400 million, supported over 40,000 businesses, and contributed to over 22,000 jobs. This year, we host approximately 500 exhibitors and anticipate thousands of visitors.”
Running until 2 May, the exhibition features an International Pavilion facilitating global trade opportunities, funded bursaries, the Business Indaba, masterclasses, an Enterprise Development Corner with live pitching, an agri-business hub, technology and media zone, street market, Kiddiepreneur programme, government services, and a vibrant Shisanyama and entertainment offering.
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