Businesses urged to buy goods locally
ZCCI Chairman Mike Patterson engaged in robust interaction with Chamber members, highlighting some of the issues the city is currently facing
ISSUES relating to local business, crime, water and road infrastructure topped the agenda at the Zululand Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZCCI) Empangeni division meeting held last week at the Empangeni Country Club.
ZCCI Chairman Mike Patterson engaged in robust interaction with Chamber members, highlighting some of the issues the city is currently facing.
Patterson alluded to the pressing issue of businesses accepting ‘kickbacks,’ which he noted was becoming the norm.
On development, he said the influx of industries in Richards Bay will contribute to the district as a whole, but many could not ignore the fact that Empangeni had been sidelined in this aspect.
Emphasis was placed on Zululanders to support each other by buying local.
It was noted that many businesses in the area seek suppliers outside Zululand instead of supporting local businesses.
Crime
Business theft was once again on the agenda with calls for business owners to report theft.
‘Serious as well as small petty theft within businesses needs to be reported so that we can monitor the situation,’ said Patterson.
Copper theft was highlighted as a serious problem, not only in Zululand, but throughout the country.
Chamber members noted that Umfolozi Casino Resort will be assisting in crime prevention with the installation of CCTV cameras at the Kuleka Industrial Park (Empangeni Rail).
A call to local businesses in the area to assist with the process was made.
Road and water Infrastructure
Zululanders and businesses have been urged to continue to save water as the region remains under threat of drought.
According to Patterson, who also holds the title of Vice Chairperson of the South African Road Federation, there have been rumours that traffic lights may at last be installed at the John Ross Eco-Junction.
In an email sent to the KZN Department of Transport last week, the ZO highlighted road users’ concerns around the John Ross Eco-Junction Intersection, which was initially reported on in 2015.
KZN DoT failed to comment or respond to the ZO’s queries.
The Melomed Richards Bay Hospital is reported to be on schedule to open soon.
Chamber members called on the uMhlathuze Traffic Department to establish a report line for reckless road users in the region.
It was noted that there has been an increase in people shooting through red traffic lights and not adhering to stop signs.
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