Learn urban gardening skills at this year’s Durban Business Fair

EThekwini Municipality will utilise the Durban Business Fair (DBF) platform to bring sectoral industry experts to transfer skills and innovation to the local business community to ensure sustainability during these tough economic times.

The Fair is taking place from 20 to 25 September at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) and Durban Exhibition Centre (DEC) and will showcase over 520 locally made quality products.

The three-day Agri-Zone programme will take place from 23 to 25 September and will expose attendees to household urban gardening skills, sustainable Agro-ecology techniques, and innovative farming methods. Educational sessions will be facilitated by experts who will explain how to create low-cost and low-tech sustainable food gardens using different growing mediums such as trench beds, growing gardens vertically as well as tower, tyre and container gardens depending on the available space.

This aim is to improve household food security and supplement household food baskets while possibly earning an income by selling excess produce to neighbours. The training will also cover learnings on processed foods, aquaculture, and intensive farming ideas and products.

The International Pavilion will take place from 23 to 25 September to facilitate export opportunities and will feature about 30 African and international countries including Portugal, Belgium, Austria, Reunion Island, Congo, Nigeria, India, Ethiopia, Ghana, Angola and many more.

Gugu Bhengu of Gugu Mobile Boutique which designs exclusive hand-crafted traditional accessories and attire, is excited to exhibit at the Fair again.

“I joined the exhibition in 2015 which has had a positive impact on my business. I’m glad the International Pavilion is back to help facilitate export trade. I received many orders and formed linkages with global delegates at previous fairs. The DBF presents critical business links which boosts our businesses. I will be showcasing at the Seychelles Fashion Week and attend a business seminar in Mauritius soon,” she said.

The Beauty and Make-Up Masterclass will be facilitated by the Edgars Beauty Academy and will provide free make-up tutorials for aspirant beauticians attending the Fair.

Another exciting feature is an outdoor street market where vendors who will be selling local cuisine that are part of Durban’s heritage. The market will also feature activities such as pottery, paint and sip sessions, and an arts and craft marketplace.

EThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda said: “This year, following the Covid-19 pandemic, skills development will be taking centre stage at the Fair. We have prioritised skills such as agriculture and the creative industry to empower people to become self-employed in their communities.”

For more information on empowerment seminars, email: admin@lomes.co.za or call 031 266 9937 or 082 659 4937.