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In the competitive landscape of KwaZulu-Natal, visibility is key to success. For businesses striving to reach the pinnacle of their industry and be recognized among the "KZN Top Business" elite, a robust SEO strategy is not just an option; it's an essential prerequisite for sustainable growth and market leadership. The Foundation: On-Page Optimization and Keyword Relevance Effective SEO begins with a deep understanding of how potential customers search for products or services in KZN. This requires meticulous keyword research tailored specifically to the regional market. For a "KZN Top Business," keywords must reflect both local relevance and industry authority. For example, a premier law firm might target "top corporate lawyers Durban" or "best legal services KZN." Integrating these keywords seamlessly into website content, including page titles, meta descriptions, headers, and body text, is crucial. This helps search engines understand the relevance of your pages to specific search queries. KZN Top Business - The List: Leveraging SEO for Success in KwaZulu-Natal's Competitive Market Building Authority through Off-Page SEO Achieving top rankings goes beyond on-page optimization. Off-page SEO is equally vital, focusing on building a website's authority and credibility through external factors. A primary driver of off-page SEO is link building. When other reputable websites link to yours, it signals to search engines that your content is valuable and trustworthy. For a business aiming to be a "KZN Top Business," securing backlinks from relevant local organizations, industry publications, and influential blogs can significantly enhance its online reputation and search engine rankings. The Power of Technical SEO While content and authority are paramount, the technical health of a website cannot be ignored. Technical SEO ensures that search engine crawlers can easily index and understand your site. Key elements include fast loading speeds, mobile-friendliness, secure connections (HTTPS), and a clean site structure. A well-optimized website provides a superior user experience, which is not only beneficial for SEO but also for converting visitors into customers. Local SEO: Connecting with the KZN Community For businesses with a physical presence or a focus on the KZN region, local SEO is non-negotiable. This involves optimizing your Google Business Profile, encouraging positive customer reviews, and ensuring that your business information is consistent across all online directories. Local SEO allows you to appear in the "Map Pack" for relevant searches, capturing high-intent leads in your immediate area. A Holistic and Long-Term Approach Achieving optimal SEO performance is a continuous process. Algorithms evolve, competition changes, and consumer search behavior shifts. Therefore, a successful SEO strategy requires ongoing monitoring, analysis, and refinement. By adopting a comprehensive approach that encompasses on-page, off-page, and technical SEO, businesses in KZN can not only improve their search engine rankings but also establish themselves as true leaders in their field, deserving of the "KZN Top Business" title. It is an investment in long-term visibility, credibility, and profitability in the dynamic KwaZulu-Natal market. Source For businesses competing at the highest levels in KZN ("KZN Top Business"), achieving optimal SEO performance

In tough economic times, it is difficult for Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) in the Early Childhood Development (ECD) space to raise sufficient funds to assist South Africa’s most vulnerable citizens.    Now, six organizations in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) - Zero2Five Trust, LETCEE, Lulamaphiko, Midlands Community College, Singakwenza and Thanda - are joining hands to create the country’s very first  Early Learning Outcomes Measure (ELOM) Community of Practice (COP) to openly share learning, expertise and data across multiple urban and rural districts including uMzinyathi, Zululand, uMkhanyakude, uMgungundlovu, uThukela and Ugu.    “What makes this collaboration unique is the spirit of openness and trust. Organisations are sharing both their successes and their challenges, creating a safe learning space where ideas, resources and innovations can move freely between programmes,” said Julika Falconer, CEO of Durban-based Zero2Five Trust.    She said it was “definitely first out of the starting blocks”  and likely to set an important precent for ECD across the country.     Falconer welcomed President Cyril Ramaposa’s State of the National Address (SONA)  commitment to elevate ECD to a core foundational education priority with plans to get all children aged zero to five into ECD structures by 2030.    However, a great deal of on-the-ground work is still needed. NPO’s deliver much of this.     “Technically, we all compete for the same funders in a tough economic landscape so we set this aside to share our best practices and tools for a common goal - to see more young children in KZN thrive. We wish to accelerate improvements in early learning outcomes by pooling expertise, resources, and data to identify, test, and disseminate practical micro-changes that can be replicated across diverse contexts. By working as a collective rather than in isolation, we aim to contribute meaningful evidence to the broader South African ECD sector,” she said.    The decision to collaborate was inspired by the findings of the Thrive by Five Index, the largest survey of preschool child outcomes ever attempted in South Africa. It measured the proportion of children aged between 50-59 months across  nine provinces to determine whether or not they were developmentally “on track” for their ages.    The findings were that 55% of South African children attending ELPs cannot do the learning tasks expected of children their age, with 28% of them falling far behind the expected standard and needing intensive intervention to catch up with their peers.   One in 18 children (5.65%) in this study showed signs of long-term malnutrition. Children between four and five regarded as ‘moderately stunted’  are five to six months behind children with normal height-for age. ‘Mildly stunted’ children are approximately 2.4 months behind.      These delays may be further compounded by social and emotional issues. Under the Social Relations with Peers and Adults category , 27.5% of children did not meet the standard. This increased to 33.4% when it comes to Emotional Readiness for School. Within a group of 20 children starting Grade R in 2023, only eight began with the right foundations in place. Eleven of these 20 children (more than half) started school already struggling.    “This   highlights the urgent need to strengthen early learning outcomes for many children. who struggle with foundational skills such as numeracy, visual motor integration and cognitive and executive development. By using the ELOM tool, the organisations are working together to better understand how children in their programmes are developing, and to test small, practical improvements – known as micro-changes – that can strengthen teaching practices and learning experiences for children,” Falconer explained.    She said the next step would be the upcoming first cross-training workshop for the programme leads and trainers of all six organisations: “The collaboration will produce a resource pack of ten low-cost learning resources made from recycled materials. Each learning resource will have suggestions for activities, covering 20 weeks. The pack will support implementation of the identified micro-changes by providing practical guidance on using each activity to strengthen numeracy, visual-motor integration (VMI), and executive functioning.”   Early Childhood Development Organisations join hands to help KZN’s most vulnerable

Tugboats may be small, but their impact on global shipping is anything but. These powerful vessels are the unsung heroes of our ports—guiding massive ships safely through tight harbour spaces, assisting with berthing, and ensuring smooth operations along some of the world’s busiest maritime routes. Built for strength and precision, tugboats are engineered to deliver exceptional power relative to their size. With advanced propulsion systems, reinforced hulls, and cutting-edge navigation technology, they are designed to operate in demanding environments where accuracy and reliability are critical. From assisting large cargo vessels and tankers to supporting offshore operations, tugboats are essential to keeping maritime logistics moving efficiently and safely. Understanding their vital role, it’s always a remarkable moment to see a tugboat take shape and come to life in our yard. From initial design and fabrication to final launch, every stage of the process reflects a commitment to quality, safety, and performance. Our skilled teams ensure that each vessel meets rigorous industry standards while being tailored to the unique operational needs of our clients. Beyond new builds, maintenance and repair play a crucial role in extending the lifespan and performance of these vessels. Regular servicing, upgrades, and inspections ensure that tugboats remain dependable in even the most challenging conditions. At Sandock Austral Shipyards, our repair and refurbishment services are designed to minimise downtime and maximise operational efficiency for our clients. As global trade continues to grow, the importance of reliable port operations becomes even more critical—and tugboats remain at the heart of it all. Their ability to adapt, perform, and deliver under pressure makes them indispensable to the maritime industry. At Sandock Austral Shipyards, we are proud to contribute to this essential sector by building and maintaining vessels that keep ports running and economies moving. Power in Small Packages: The Vital Role of Tugboats

By: Timothy Isabirye | Marketing Manager -- Husqvarna South Africa Most of us love the idea of a beautiful garden. In reality, life gets busy. One week of rain becomes three. The hedges get a little wild, the shrubs start spilling over, and suddenly the garden feels like something you need to catch up on. That’s why March matters. It’s the month to take back control of your garden, and it all starts with pruning. Whether you do it yourself or bring in a professional, what you tackle now can make the months ahead cleaner, easier and far more manageable. Don’t wait until winter to start pruning. Charles Henderson, Business Development Manager (Tree Professional) at Husqvarna South Africa, says that getting ahead in March can prevent plants from becoming dense, tangled and difficult to manage as the seasons change. “After a full summer of fast growth, plants can quickly become dense and tangled. If pruning is left too late, airflow and sunlight struggle to reach the inner growth, small jobs become much bigger ones, and overcrowded branches create the ideal conditions for pests and disease as the cooler months approach,” says Henderson. Where to start So, if you’re convinced it’s time to act, the next question is where to start. Henderson says these are the pruning tasks worth focusing on this March: 1. Tidy up hedges and boundary plants: Using tools such as a Husqvarna hedge trimmer, you can lightly trim hedges to keep them neat, shaped and easier to manage through winter. 2. Remove dead, damaged or crossing branches: Clearing weak or broken growth improves airflow, light and overall plant health. 3. Cut back overgrown climbers and creepers: A controlled March trim keeps fast growers from taking over walls, fences and nearby plants. 4. Prune lightly after harvest for certain fruit trees: Post-harvest pruning helps maintain shape now and sets trees up for stronger winter pruning later. 5. Clear invasive or unwanted growth: Removing invasive shoots and overgrowth now saves work later and protects healthier plants around them. Common pruning mistakes to avoid Even well-intentioned pruning can cause problems if done incorrectly. These are some of the most common mistakes homeowners make: 1. Cutting too aggressively: Taking off too much at once can stress the plant and trigger weak regrowth. 2. Using blunt or inappropriate tools: Blunt or unsuitable tools damage branches and leave plants vulnerable to disease. 3. Pruning the wrong plants at the wrong time: Not every plant should be pruned in March, so mistimed cutting can reduce flowering or weaken growth. 4. Leaving stubs or cutting too close: Poor cuts slow recovery and can leave the plant open to damage or disease. 5. Ignoring safety on larger trees: Bigger pruning jobs can quickly become dangerous without the right tools, skills or support. Regional tips South Africa’s climate is varied, so pruning timing can look a little different depending on where you are. Western Cape March is a good time to lightly prune deciduous trees and shrubs, after the heat of summer and before the wetter months set in. Just be careful not to prune frost-sensitive plants too late in the month. Gauteng Warm weather often lingers into March, so it is best to focus on light pruning, shaping and removing deadwood. This can also be a good time to keep fruit trees tidy and under control. KwaZulu-Natal Because growth continues for longer in subtropical conditions, early March is a useful time to cut back overgrowth and improve airflow before humidity and rain create bigger problems. Pruning in March is not just about tidying up. It is about getting ahead. Done well, it can mean healthier plants, less maintenance and a garden that is easier to manage as the seasons shift. Leave it too late, and small jobs have a way of becoming much bigger ones. March may be brief, but when it comes to your garden, it is a window worth using well. To view Husqvarna’s range of garden tools and equipment, visit www.husqvarna.com/za

A workshop with fellow scale-up founders, led by best-selling author Jason Goldberg to get the skills and knowledge needed to scale your business.   Are you a business founder wanting to unlock the secrets to building a high-performing team in the AI era? Then this Art of Team masterclass being held in Durban on 24 March could be for you.   Designed for founders and senior decision-makers at established or scaling businesses with between 10 and 200 employees and with an annual turnover of between R8m and R150m, this hands-on session is the ideal opportunity to learn alongside fellow entrepreneurs to supercharge your team for growth. This workshop forms part of a national masterclass series entitled Founders at Work (FAW) - a national masterclass series launched in October last year in partnership with FNB and Art of Scale.   Led by best-selling author Jason Goldberg (co-founder of Edge Growth), this masterclass equips founders with the tools, skills and knowledge to attract, select and develop AI-augmented A-players who will drive their vision within the business.   Goldberg’s relentless pursuit of scalable solutions to combat poverty led him to co-found Edge Growth in 2007, a business development specialist dedicated to creating quality livelihoods and fostering impactful growth in Africa by scaling small businesses. Edge Growth believes that transformation occurs when founders are equipped not only with funding but also with the frameworks, tools and peer networks needed to lead confidently through scale. As such, FAW is designed to support ambitious founders and CEOs in navigating the scale-up journey in the AI era, aligning directly with Edge Growth’s mission to unlock SME growth and create quality livelihoods across Africa.   Aligning with comprehensive years of research, and as outlined in Goldberg’s book of the same name, The Art of Scale helps founders grow their business through six key areas: understanding how and when to scale (Science of Scaling), setting a strong strategy (Art of Strategy), building and developing a great team (Art of People), turning plans into results (Art of Execution), managing money for sustainable growth (Art of Money), and developing the leadership skills to guide a fast-growing company (Scale-Up Leadership).   This upcoming workshop, being held at FNB Acacia House, Umhlanga Rocks, Durban and also available to attend online, specifically focuses on The Art of Team: How to attract, select and develop A-players who drive the company’s vision; how to better build an aligned leadership culture and scale teams seamlessly through transition and how to better utilise AI tools to amplify the team’s capabilities and productivity.   In today’s fast-changing business world, AI is changing how teams work, making tasks faster, easier and more efficient. At the Art of Team workshop, founders will learn how to use AI to boost their team’s productivity, help staff perform at a higher level, thereby enabling leaders to focus on strategy. The session will cover how AI can improve systems, speed up execution, and extend leadership impact, giving attendees practical tools to build stronger, high-performing teams in the AI era.   Attendance is free for qualifying founders and space is limited. To reserve your place, please go to https://foundersatwork.co.za/durban-art-of-team/   For more information, go to www.foundersatwork.co.za , artofscale.io and www.edgegrowth.com .   Ends   Edge Growth is a leading SME Development Specialist and Venture Fund Manager, specialising in developing small businesses and creating jobs and real transformation by connecting corporates and entrepreneurs, growing SMEs by addressing their key constraints: Access to finance, markets and skills. Our offering consists of three services areas, designed to achieve maximum IMPACT:  ESD Strategy for corporates & building SMEs in their value chain  Investing in and growing SMEs through fund management  Scaling businesses to full potential through accelerator programmes    Go to www.edgegrowth.com for more information.   AI, LEADERSHIP & HIGH-PERFORMING TEAMS: A MASTERCLASS FOR FOUNDERS AND SENIOR DECISION-MAKERS IN DURBAN

In today’s fast-paced business environment, logistics is no longer just about moving goods from one location to another. It has evolved into a critical strategic function that directly influences operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and long-term business success. Companies that understand this shift are transforming their supply chains into powerful competitive advantages. At the forefront of this transformation is HRMP Logistics, a logistics partner dedicated to delivering more than just cargo. With a commitment to reliability, precision, and performance, HRMP Logistics helps businesses streamline operations and maintain seamless supply chains in an increasingly complex marketplace. Logistics as a Business Strategy For many organisations, logistics has traditionally been seen as a support service—something that happens behind the scenes. However, in modern business, logistics is a key strategic driver. Efficient transportation, warehousing, and distribution systems allow businesses to reduce costs, optimise inventory levels, and respond quickly to changing customer demands. When logistics is managed strategically, it improves delivery speed, reduces operational bottlenecks, and ensures that products reach customers exactly when and where they are needed. Delivering Reliability and Efficiency Reliability is the backbone of successful logistics operations. Delays, miscommunication, or supply chain disruptions can impact entire industries. HRMP Logistics focuses on delivering dependable transportation solutions that businesses can trust. Through well-coordinated fleet management, advanced logistics planning, and efficient warehouse operations, the company ensures that every delivery is handled with precision and professionalism. Their approach focuses on minimising risk while maximising operational efficiency. Integrated Supply Chain Solutions Modern logistics providers are expected to do far more than transport goods. Businesses today require integrated supply chain solutions that support growth and scalability. HRMP Logistics provides services that extend across the entire logistics ecosystem, including: Transport and distribution Warehouse and inventory management Supply chain coordination Delivery optimisation and scheduling By integrating these services, businesses gain greater visibility and control over their operations, enabling them to make smarter decisions and improve overall productivity. Supporting Business Growth As businesses expand, so do their logistical challenges. New markets, higher volumes, and increased customer expectations demand flexible and scalable logistics solutions. HRMP Logistics works closely with its clients to understand their operational needs and develop tailored strategies that support sustainable growth. Whether it’s managing regional distribution or handling complex supply chain requirements, the company positions itself as a long-term logistics partner. Delivering on a Promise The slogan displayed on every HRMP vehicle— “Delivering. Our Promise.” —captures the company’s core philosophy. It reflects a commitment not only to delivering goods but also to delivering value, reliability, and peace of mind for every client. In a world where efficiency and speed define success, logistics is no longer just about delivery. It is about creating a strategic advantage that empowers businesses to operate smarter, faster, and more effectively. Through innovation, reliability, and customer-focused service, HRMP Logistics continues to prove that great logistics is not just a service—it is a partnership that drives business forward. Contact Details HRMP Logistics Phone: +27 31 569 1025 Email: info@hrmplogistics.co.za Website: www.hrmplogistics.co.za More Than a Delivery. A Strategic Advantage. HRM Holdings

As water security moves to the centre of South Africa’s economic agenda, the strategic management of water resources has become critical for stakeholders in both the public and private sector. A multi-year partnership between global woodfibre and forestry group Sappi and WWF South Africa can serve as a blueprint for securing the bio-economy through proactive catchment stewardship. While many of the current discussions around water focus on the infrastructure backlog, Sappi’s approach emphasises that infrastructure is only one part of the narrative. True water security requires effective water management - the active governance and restoration of the ecosystems that provide water to mills, farms, cities and citizens. “South Africa’s pressing water security and biodiversity risks demand collective action that extends beyond the capabilities of any one company,” says Graeme Wild, CEO of Sappi South Africa. “Recognizing the need for trusted partnerships that bring both technical insight and environmental credibility, Sappi has partnered with WWF South Africa since 2021 to implement solutions that safeguard ecosystems while supporting sustainable economic activity.” A key focus of this partnership is the uMkhomazi catchment in KwaZulu-Natal. The uMkhomazi river is a vital resource for small towns, rural communities, industrial operations and growing urban centers like eThekwini. By investing in the proactive management of this resource, Sappi and WWF are working to ensure a sustainable balance between operational requirements and the needs of local communities. Key milestones in this innovative water management partnership Alien plant clearing:  Through working with and empowering local communities within the uMkhomazi catchment, 191 hectares of invasive wattle species have been cleared. Land rehabilitation:  Over 2,322 hectares of rangelands are now under improved management, with 30 hectares being actively rehabilitated with the help of local communities, with a focus on erosion control to prevent sedimentation in downstream water systems. Soil health innovation:  A successful bioturbation trial was conducted in iNzinga. By using livestock to naturally break up compacted soil, the project has improved nutrient cycling and water infiltration, restoring the landscape's ability to act as a natural reservoir. Citizen Science:  Local "Citizen Scientists" have been deployed to collect baseline water-quality data across three sub-catchments, providing the empirical data necessary for effective water governance. Biodiversity protection:  The partnership has identified over 20,000 hectares for potential protection through a new Biodiversity Stewardship Strategy, working alongside Conservation Outcomes and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. “Securing South Africa’s Strategic Water Source Areas and achieving the Global Biodiversity Framework goal of protecting 30% of land and seascapes by 2030 will only happen through strong partnerships like the WWF-Sappi partnership. Only with the private sector, can we drive lasting impact for people and nature,” says Pavitray Pillay, Executive Head of Business Development and Marketing at WWF South Africa. Additionally, emerging research from the Gerana Initiative highlights the growing recognition that the health of river basins, soils and ecosystems is becoming fundamental to long-term business resilience. Its soon to be launched, Market Opportunity Scoping (MOS) study, explores how companies are beginning to respond to mounting pressures in the landscapes that underpin global supply systems. Supported by Sappi, the research also informs the development of Landscape Discovery Labs, including in the uMkhomazi River Basin in KwaZulu-Natal, where the company works alongside farmers, foresters, communities and public institutions to strengthen landscape-level stewardship. Economic Impact and Future Skills The success of these water management initiatives also opens doors for young South Africans. Stats SA reported a significant increase in people employed in Skilled Agriculture between 2024 and 2025, highlighting exciting opportunities for employment and innovation across rural South Africa. As technology and AI disrupt traditional sectors, agriculture and agro-processing stand out as job-intensive industries with strong multiplier effects for rural communities. Wild concludes: “As a water-scarce country, we face some tough discussions around water usage going forward. We need to work with reputable and experienced partners who will be able to inform both short-term requirements as well as long-term strategic goals for the benefit of all South Africans.” Sappi and WWF South Africa champion water management as key to bio-economy resilience

There’s something powerful about thousands of people moving together with a shared purpose—and that’s exactly what makes the Suncoast East Coast Radio Big Walk such a standout on KwaZulu-Natal’s calendar. On Sunday, 17 May 2026, the iconic Durban Promenade will once again come alive as families, friends, fitness enthusiasts, and community members gather for a day that’s about far more than just walking. Hosted by East Coast Radio in partnership with Suncoast Casino, this beloved event celebrates connection, wellness, and unity. Now in its 22nd year, the Big Walk continues to grow in both scale and impact. This year’s theme, “Walking In Your Shoes,” encourages participants to reflect, embrace different perspectives, and move forward together—reminding us all of the importance of empathy in today’s fast-paced world. Whether you’re walking for fitness, fun, or a meaningful cause, the event offers an inclusive atmosphere where everyone is welcome. From energetic children taking on the challenge to seasoned walkers setting their pace, the Big Walk truly captures the spirit of community. Tickets and RegistrationEarly birds can take advantage of a limited offer, with 5,000 tickets available at R145, while standard entries will be priced at R165 thereafter. As an added incentive, one lucky early bird entrant will win a special Suncoast experience—making it even more worthwhile to sign up early. Why You Should JoinThe Big Walk isn’t just about the distance—it’s about the experience. It’s about showing up, being part of something bigger, and sharing a moment with thousands of others who are all walking the same path, even if just for a day. So lace up your sneakers, gather your loved ones, and be part of a movement that continues to bring people together year after year. Secure your spot today and be part of the journey. Step Into Something Bigger: The Suncoast East Coast Radio Big Walk Returns

By: The Original Grain Company Every meal begins long before it reaches a plate. It starts in fields where farmers and agricultural workers invest months of planning, hard work, and resources to produce the crops that sustain households, businesses, and economies.   Agriculture Day, observed annually on 17 March, is an opportunity to recognise the essential role agriculture plays not only in feeding communities, but also in sustaining rural livelihoods, supporting economic growth, and strengthening food security across Africa.   “Most people encounter agriculture only when they purchase food in a shop, but behind every bag of maize meal or serving of protein-rich soy there is an entire ecosystem of farmers, workers, transporters, and agricultural specialists working together,” says Ryan New, Managing Director of The Original Grain Company. “Agriculture supports millions of livelihoods and plays a fundamental role in ensuring food reaches markets reliably and affordably.”   South Africa’s agricultural sector contributes significantly to the country’s food security while also supporting employment in rural communities. Grain crops such as maize and soybeans form the backbone of many food supply chains and are essential ingredients in both human and animal nutrition. Maize remains one of the most widely consumed staple foods in Southern Africa, while soybeans are valued globally as a major source of affordable protein.   For many farmers, access to capital at the start of the season remains one of the biggest barriers to expanding production. Recognising this challenge, The Original Grain Fund developed its Advanced Agricultural Product Purchasing (AAPP) programme to support farmers at the most critical stage of the farming cycle. The Fund manages long-term agricultural investment initiatives, while The Original Grain Company focuses on sourcing, trading, and transporting agricultural commodities.   The AAPP programme provides upfront investment based on the size of the land being planted, helping farmers cover the costs of seeds, fertiliser, labour, and equipment at the start of the season. At harvest time, crops are purchased at market-related prices linked to SAFEX benchmarks.   New says the model helps reduce financial pressure on farmers while creating greater stability in agricultural supply chains. “Farming requires significant capital long before a single crop is harvested. By investing at the beginning of the season and guaranteeing offtake, the AAPP programme allows farmers to plan with greater confidence and focus on producing quality crops,” he explains.   The programme currently focuses on farming operations in and around the Vrede region in the Free State, with plans to expand its footprint into other agricultural areas in the near future.   In addition to supporting commercial farming operations, the model also highlights how unused or underutilised land can be transformed into productive agricultural assets when the right expertise and investment are applied.   “Across South Africa there is considerable land that could be producing food but remains unused due to a lack of capital, skills, or operational support,” says New. “When those barriers are addressed through partnerships, agriculture can unlock economic opportunity while strengthening food supply.”   Beyond the fields, agriculture also depends on complex logistics networks that move crops from farms to mills, processors, retailers, and export markets. The Original Grain Company works directly with farmers to source agricultural commodities and transport them across Africa through established road and sea freight channels.   For New, Agriculture Day is a reminder that supporting agriculture is not only about farming itself. “It is about supporting farmers through the right partnerships and investment to ensure that more land can be productive and that agriculture continues to grow. It reminds us that supporting farmers ultimately means strengthening food security, rural economies and the long-term sustainability of our food systems.” Follow The Original Grain Company on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_original_grain_co/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583345357082 X: https://x.com/original_grain LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-original-grain-company AAPP video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1PwEuJQW5M8

By: Dylan Naidoo   The uMgungundlovu Economic Development Agency (Umeda) recently announced that plans have been put in place to transform Mooi River into a new logistics hub. The announcement was made on Tuesday the 11 March 2026 by UMEDA as per a 2025/26 Financial Year UMEDA Newsletters report, specifically Quarter 4 Issue #4.   One of these major development spots is the Tai Yuen Factory in Mooi River, which has not been operational for three years. However, interest to develop the building has been reinvigorated due to its close proximity to the N3 highway, and the “extensive land holdings”. The factory is estimated to be five hectares in size, with an estimated R500 million to be used to transform this factory specifically, as part of transforming Mooi River into a logistics hub.   Tai Yuen Factory’s George Liu informed The Witness   that amidst an unstable textile manufacturing industry in South Africa, Liu and his partners were committed to operating in South Africa. Liu is confident that existing infrastructure at the factory, including electricity connections and large warehouses, highlight the factory as a significant opportunity for investment.   NMD International and another property developer have set plans in place for this development strategy in Mooi River, with the project’s projected value at R4.5 billion, R4 billion of which set for a planned dry port for the logistics hub. James Martin, manager at UMEDA, commented that the town of Mooi River has been severely affected by incidents over the past decades, including excessive violence pre-1994 apartheid era, and the town being in shambles following incidents of civil unrest. Amidst these unfortunate incidents, Martin is keen on the opportunities that this venture entails. “We identified Mooi River as a key development strategic node, especially given that the N3 corridor from Durban, Hammarsdale, Mkhambathini, and Pietermaritzburg is filling up and there is no more industrial space for development” (Quote taken by Thami Magubane from IOL News ).   Themba Mkhasibe, manager of local economic development (LED) in the Mooi River Mpofana Local Municipality, mentions that a logistics hub in Mooi River, specifically placed near the N3, is one of the key projects to take note of, citing improvements to driving conditions in Mooi River. “Given the number of truck accidents along the N3, this hub will be central in decreasing truck congestion on the N3, thereby reducing accidents by ensuring that goods are transported by train” (Quote taken by Thami Magubane from IOL News ).   The major R4.5 billion investments into Mooi River to transform the area into a logistics hub provides an excellent opportunity for investors. The small town’s close proximity to the major cities of Durban and Johannesburg and its location near the N3 highlights major development potential, and this new development of an estimated R4.5 billion logistics hub is a result of this. 25 November 2025 marks a significant milestone for economic development in Mooi River. UMEDA, together with  Mpofana Local Municipality , the Mayor Hon TM Magubane, Ward 1 Councillor, and the Economic Development Unit, met with the CEO and Chief Operations Officers of the Tai Yuen Textile Factory to officially launch the marketing campaign for the Mpofana Industrial Node.

The countdown is on for one of South Africa’s most anticipated outdoor events, the 2026 Sappi Karkloof Trail Fest , now just 10 weeks away. Set in the breathtaking trails of the Karkloof, this much-loved festival promises another action-packed weekend for adventure seekers, families, and competitive athletes alike. Renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse route options, the Trail Fest continues to deliver on its promise of “something for everyone.” Whether you’re an experienced rider, a trail running enthusiast, or simply looking to enjoy the outdoors, the event caters to all fitness levels and abilities. Mountain biking remains a major highlight of the festival, with distances ranging from 10km to 75km. This year’s programme is especially exciting as it includes a South African Championship race, drawing top-tier talent to the scenic Karkloof trails. Riders can expect a mix of technical terrain, flowing single tracks, and spectacular views that have made the region a favourite among MTB enthusiasts. Trail runners are equally spoiled for choice, with distances of 9km, 15km, and 21km on offer. These routes showcase the natural beauty of the area, weaving through indigenous forests, open grasslands, and rolling hills that define the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. Beyond the races, the festival atmosphere is what truly sets the Sappi Karkloof Trail Fest apart. It’s more than just a sporting event — it’s a celebration of outdoor lifestyle, community, and adventure. Participants and spectators can look forward to a vibrant weekend filled with camaraderie, scenic exploration, and memorable experiences. With entries now open, organisers are encouraging early registration to secure a spot at one of South Africa’s premier trail events. As excitement builds, the 2026 edition is shaping up to be another standout on the country’s sporting calendar. 2026 Sappi Karkloof Trail Fest Returns for an Unmissable Outdoor Weekend

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) is participating in the National Transport Conference 2026 , currently underway from 16 to 18 March at the Gallagher Convention Centre. The conference brings together key stakeholders, policymakers, and industry leaders from across South Africa’s transport sector to engage in meaningful discussions around building a safer, more efficient, and better connected national transport system. From aviation and rail to road and maritime, the event serves as a critical platform for collaboration and innovation. As a central player in South Africa’s aviation infrastructure, ACSA’s presence at the conference highlights its commitment to driving progress within the broader transport ecosystem. By participating in conversations focused on connectivity, sustainability, and operational excellence, ACSA continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of mobility in the country. Through engagements at the conference, ACSA is sharing insights into how airport operations and aviation networks can contribute to economic growth, improved passenger experiences, and enhanced regional and global connectivity. The organisation is also exploring opportunities for integrated transport solutions that align with South Africa’s long-term development goals. The National Transport Conference 2026 underscores the importance of partnerships and forward-thinking strategies in addressing current challenges and unlocking future opportunities in the sector. ACSA’s involvement reflects its ongoing dedication to innovation, collaboration, and building a transport system that supports the country’s growth and connectivity ambitions. Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) is participating in the National Transport Conference 2026