Durban, 4 April 2025 — KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has called for deeper collaboration between government and black business as he addressed the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of the National Federated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NAFCOC) at the Durban International Convention Centre.
Marking 60 years of NAFCOC’s existence, the Premier hailed the organisation’s historic and ongoing role in empowering black entrepreneurs and advancing inclusive economic transformation across South Africa.
“For over six decades, NAFCOC has been the enduring voice of black business, even during the darkest days of apartheid,” said Premier Ntuli. “Today, we recognise the many men and women who, with NAFCOC’s support, have broken through barriers and now play influential roles across both public and private sectors.”
The high-profile event was attended by President Cyril Ramaphosa, His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, national and provincial government leaders, business stakeholders, and NAFCOC executives. The Premier used the occasion to reflect on NAFCOC’s legacy while also looking forward to a new era of economic partnership and shared growth.
Premier Ntuli outlined a bold five-year plan for the province under the Government of Provincial Unity, focused on:
• Rebuilding the economy
• Strengthening governance
• Advancing sustainable development
• Improving healthcare, education, and infrastructure
• Promoting community safety
• Mitigating climate change
• Building a capable and ethical state
He invited NAFCOC to be a central partner in driving this agenda. “We cannot succeed without business playing its part. Our job as government is to clear bottlenecks and unlock opportunities—particularly in the township and rural economies, which are critical to achieving true economic freedom,” he said.
Premier Ntuli also announced a renewed push to attract investment and accelerate industrialisation through Special Economic Zones in Richards Bay and at Dube Trade Port. A revised Provincial Integrated Trade and Investment Strategy will guide this work, alongside stronger air connectivity and expanded tourism and export markets.
The Premier praised recent efforts by the SAPS, led by Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, to clamp down on organised crime. “A safe province is essential for a thriving economy,” he said, promising improved coordination between law enforcement and business stakeholders.
In closing, Premier Ntuli described the NAFCOC Diamond Jubilee as “a celebration of resilience, vision and the power of unity.” He congratulated the organisation and called for continued joint action in building an inclusive and prosperous KwaZulu-Natal.
The celebration also included a keynote memorial lecture in honour of NAFCOC founding leader Dr. Sam Motsuenyane, delivered by ANC Treasurer General Dr. Gwen Ramokgopa.