The Durban Business Fair Excellence Awards 2026 recognised 24 local businesses for their entrepreneurial excellence. The awards ceremony, held at the Durban Exhibition Centre on September 19, was attended by prominent officials, including eThekwini Municipality mayor, Cyril Xaba, and the City's Economic Development and Planning chairperson, Councillor Thembo Ntuli. This event celebrated the achievements of local businesses and their contributions to the city's economic growth.

The initiative provided more than R800,000 in enterprise development support to the winning businesses. This support aims to strengthen their operations and help them grow. The programme offered practical assistance, including equipment and opportunities to access new markets. By investing in local enterprises, the municipality seeks to create opportunities for sustainable economic development.

The awards highlighted the crucial role of small businesses and entrepreneurs in driving economic activity within the local economy. Their efforts contribute significantly to economic growth and job creation. The recognition of these businesses encourages others to strive for excellence and supports the development of a thriving local business community.

Local businesses and entrepreneurs welcomed the initiative, praising the municipality for its investment in their enterprises. They appreciated the practical assistance provided, which will help them improve their operations, access new markets, and pursue sustainable growth. This support is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy.

The Durban Business Fair Excellence Awards 2026 is part of the municipality's efforts to strengthen local enterprises. By providing support and recognition to businesses, the municipality aims to foster a conducive environment for economic growth and development. This event has become an essential platform for celebrating local business excellence.

The winning businesses were celebrated for their entrepreneurial efforts and contribution to economic growth in the city. The awards ceremony served as a platform to acknowledge their hard work and dedication. The recognition is expected to motivate these businesses to continue growing and contributing to the local economy.

The support provided to the winning businesses will enable them to improve their operations and access new markets. This, in turn, will contribute to the growth of the local economy. The initiative demonstrates the municipality's commitment to supporting local businesses and promoting economic development.

Key points

  • 24 businesses were recognised at the Durban Business Fair Excellence Awards 2026.
  • Over R800,000 in enterprise development support was awarded to the winning businesses.
  • The initiative aims to strengthen local enterprises and create opportunities for sustainable economic development.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.