This year’s Dundee July event-themed “African Jewel” reimagined the essence of Africa’s beauty and talent. The 19th annual celebration brought together vibrant culture, dazzling fashion, and impressive horse racing, all under the African sun.
In the fashion stakes, the winner in the Best Men’s Wear category was Sizwe Sokhela; the winners for Best Women’s Wear were Brenda Waring and Pamela Shabane; and Nosibusiso Mbali had the Most Creative Outfit. They each received prize money of R10 000 from Ithala.
The Ithala marquee had the KZN Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli; the KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs Reverend Musa Zondi; the KZN MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture, Mntomuhle Khawula; and the MEC for Finance Francois Adrianus Rodgers coming in to greet and mingle.
Speaking in the short programme Rev Zondi hosted by Ithala in the marquee, he highlighted the significance of Dundee July in highlighting the rich heritage and creativity that KwaZulu-Natal has to offer and underscoring the importance of economic development initiatives in fostering community spirit and growth. He emphasized the importance of such events in uplifting local communities and inspiring future generations. Attendees were treated to a display of stunning outfits, pulsating music, and amazing races, truly celebrating the African spirit.
Dr Thulani Vilakazi, CEO of Ithala, said the Dundee July attracts a large following and provides an ideal platform in which to bring affordable and convenient financial services closer to the people of KZN.
“As a pioneer champion in banking the unbanked in KZN, business accounts will be opened for participants to safely receive their participation fees and winnings, thus growing our transactional account base. Ithala will distribute stake money and appearance fees to all winners and participants this year to grow business’ deposit and fee income through transactional banking,” he said.
Premier Ntuli commended the province’s Department of Sports, Arts and Culture for delivering a well-organised 19th Dundee July Traditional horseracing event which he said has a potential of increasing job creation.
He was also hopeful that the Dundee July would also open investment corridors in the coming future so that people would not always flock to the big cities for better opportunities.
HAVE YOUR SAY: Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram or email us at dundee.courier@caxton.co.za. Add us on WhatsApp 071 277 1394.
