Business leaders praise City's budget despite tariff hike concerns

BUSINESS and civil society in Durban believe that the eThekwini Municipality has turned a corner and is on track to deliver economic growth, attract tourists, and provide essential services to communities.

- THAMI MAGUBANE

They said they had noted that parts of the city that had become “uninhabitable” in the past due to the proliferation of criminality and drug abuse are being cleaned up, alongside improvements in the cleanliness of the city and investment in infrastructure that has the capacity to deliver services and unlock billions in potential investments.

Stakeholders also said the City's budget for the 2025/2026 financial year was much better than those of previous years and will be a cornerstone to unlocking further potential in the city.

The City held a business breakfast yesterday to discuss the budget that was passed by the council a few days ago. The budget, valued at close to R70 billion, detailed the tariffs that have been imposed.

Mluleki Nhlapo, provincial secretary of National African Federation Chamber (Nafcoc), said the city was on track, especially regarding many of the basics that attract investment and business growth.

"You can see that in terms of the improvements in security and cleanliness; the city is now clean at any time of the day," he noted.