UMUZIWABANTU Local Municipality in Harding has welcomed the launch of Alfred County Business Chamber aimed to create a platform where businesses can engage on challenges affecting the local economy, identify opportunities and work collectively towards promoting economic growth, entrepreneurship and job creation.

The official launch was at Umuziwabantu Municipal Council Chamber on Thursday, August 20.

The launch ceremony brought together municipal leadership, business leaders, formal and informal traders. Addressing the gathering was municipal mayor Sboniso Zungu who welcomed the establishment of the chamber and emphasised the important role that businesses play in building sustainable communities.

“A strong business community is essential to the growth and development of any municipality. Businesses create jobs, contribute to the local economy, provide essential services, and play an important role in building sustainable communities,” said Zungu.

He further mentioned the importance of collaboration between government, business, labour and communities and said that there is a need of a strong partnership between government, business, labour, and communities.

He said the new business chamber will be a key platform for businesses and stakeholders through engagements and also identify challenges and work together on practical solutions.

The municipality wished for the success of the business chamber as it begins its journey and looks forward to working with the chamber and other stakeholders to create an environment in which businesses can grow and contribute meaningfully to the development of the local community.