Economic development top priority for the City
BRYANSTON – Business owners and residents met with MMC for Economic Development to discuss the allocated budgets for each sector.
The Ward 104 business breakfast welcomed an interesting talk about the growth strategy in Johannesburg by Leah Knott, MMC for Economic Development.
Business owners, residents and Caxton media gathered on 21 February at Bryanston Country Club to understand the allocated budget for each sector in the City of Johannesburg.
Ward 104 committee chairperson, Brian Tromp spoke about the importance of growing the relationship between businesses, residents and the city.
Knott discussed the need for the development of small, medium and micro-enterprises and their support hubs. Certain sites have been earmarked for development such as Randburg CBD, the tourist centre in Sandton and business hubs in Alexandra and Diepsloot.
Knott explained the vision of the department in a quote from Joburg’s Executive Mayor, Herman Mashaba, who said, “A Joburg that works is a South Africa that works.” She further divulged that the planning process needs to happen earlier in order to allow for wider and more substantive consultation.
“The Capex [capital expenditure] projects need more substantive interrogation especially in the context of a three-year planning cycle which includes greater community involvement in their approval and better project management,” said Knott.
The top tier of priorities include the following:
- Promoting the economy with a 5 per cent economic growth to reduce unemployment by 2021
- Addressing pro-poor development, a culture of enhanced services with pride
- Sense of security through improved public safety, as well an honest and transparent City
- Improved response to the needs of citizens
- Financial stability, the encouragement of innovation and efficiency through the Smart City programme
- Preserve resources for future generations.
Further questions were fielded from the guests such as the City’s response to reducing red tape for businesses partnering with the City and property development, as well as the need to improve the look of the City to encourage business expansion. Knott responded by alluding to the very lengthy 19-step process to approve property development which is currently being workshopped. “We are working hard on fast tracking the avenues for business with the City.”
Ward 104 councillor Mike Wood reiterated the importance of integrating business with the City. He encouraged businesses and the community to take ownership of their surroundings and join campaigns such as A Re Sebetseng. Wood said, “I see a city that can reach its potential.”
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