Growth of mushroom farm on the KZN South Coast shows now’s the time to invest in agriculture
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 28 February 2025 Growth of mushroom farm on the KZN South Coast shows now’s the time to invest in agriculture Renowned for its fertile soil, subtropical climate, and ideal growing conditions, the KZN South Coast has long been synonymous with thriving sugar cane, banana, macadamia nut, and coffee plantations. Now, one intrepid local entrepreneur has shown the region’s incredible potential for another produce – mushrooms. The 100 percent black, female-owned Oatlands Oyster Mushroom, which has its production headquarters in KwaNositha, has been growing fresh oyster mushrooms for local supply since 2018. The ongoing success of this farming venture has seen investment opportunities extend into alternative mushroom families, with owners looking to sell king oyster mushrooms, tashik mushrooms, as well as yellow and blue oyster mushrooms – in both the fresh and dehydrated forms. “When I started, I didn’t have any background in agriculture, but I knew that was the industry I needed to be in because it’s where so much local income is sourced,” explained Oatlands Oyster Mushroom farm owner, Asanda Mkhize. “The Department of Agriculture trained us in how to grow oyster mushrooms, and I was intrigued by the fact that you can grow them almost anywhere, without needing a large space.” Despite the challenge of Covid-19 and its impact on the local economy, Oatlands has continued to thrive – in part, from the support received from South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise’s (SCTIE) Buy Local initiative. Members enjoy significant benefits including marketing, networking, and insight into options for local government support. Mkhize says they joined the platform three years ago, and haven’t looked back since. “We have continued to gain more customers through Buy Local, supplying more retailers, restaurants, hotels, and other tourism areas with our dehydrated oyster mushrooms,” she said. “There is definitely more potential for expansion in this industry such as more dedicated mushroom production buildings to support the six-week growth cycle, and the option of expanding into the global market. We’re also looking at diversifying our mushroom selection to reach new markets.” Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of SCTIE, says agriculture remains one of the KZN South Coast’s key economic drivers, with significant potential for investors to explore: “Those looking to leverage the favourable conditions for farming will discover the potential in various crops, as well as agritourism which is a growing industry on the KZN South Coast. The region’s position also has logistical advantages, from its ease of accessibility along national networks to forming a component of the Eastern Seaboard Development that further opens up the domestic market. The nearby Durban Harbour also allows for increased access to a global market as well.” Now’s the time to invest in the KZN South Coast! Find out more by visiting the KZN South Coast website; following South Coast Tourism on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Watch why KZN South Coast is a top tourism destination here. To find out more about these and more investment opportunities, get in touch with SCTIE, the KZN South Coast’s One-Stop Shop for investment. Contact SCTIE on 039 682 7944, email oss@sctie.co.za or visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. To purchase goods sold or secure services from these and other Buy Local businesses visit the online directory on the SCTIE website. To make orders from Buy Local members or to join the campaign, visit the Buy Local tag at www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or click here for a membership form. Follow the hashtags #nowisthetime #nowisthetimetoinvest /ENDS Please note the image credit is included beneath the corresponding image. All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct photographer credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied. High resolution images are available upon request. (Images: Supplied by SCTIE) Oatlands Oyster Mushroom farm. Oatlands Oyster Mushroom farm. Oatlands Oyster Mushroom farm. Oatlands Oyster Mushroom farm. About South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) SCTIE was established as the official economic development arm of the KZN South Coast which extends from Scottburgh to Port Edward, and inland to Harding. It is a legal entity of the Ugu District Municipality with executive powers, serving the Ugu District and its family of municipalities. The entity is committed to identifying and unlocking the full tourism and investment potential of this region. SCTIE achieves its mandate of promoting investment through dedicated marketing initiatives, product development, business support and training, dedicated networking events, and breaking down barriers to local investment. From the coast to the hinterland, the KZN South Coast has a wealth of untapped investment potential for those who are looking to branch out into the district and uncover opportunities. The attractive location, subtropical climate, natural assets and accessibility make the KZN South Coast a prime investment destination. By engaging with local and international role players, SCTIE seeks to assist investors looking to uncover hidden gems across various economic sectors, including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, real estate, logistics and transport, and the ocean economy, among others. For more information, visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. Issued on behalf of: South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) Disseminated by: Olivia Jones Communications For more information please contact: Olivia Jones Communications Cell: 083 653 1720 Email: media@oliviajones.co.za
KZN South Coast’s fashion labels making an impact on the global stage
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 25 February 2025 KZN South Coast’s fashion labels making an impact on the global stage Three award-winning fashion designers from the KZN South Coast are proving that the world is eager for high-quality, locally crafted fashion. The labels Sistas Felas, S’theh, and Deon Zuider are blending elegant couture with African flair, demonstrating the international demand for expert craftsmanship, and the vast investment potential in the region’s fashion industry. All three brands are members (or pending members) of the South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise’s (SCTIE) Buy Local initiative, which promotes local businesses, connects them with resources, and encourages consumer and investor support. Their success highlights a thriving industry ready for expansion – a golden opportunity for investors looking to back a high-growth sector. Sistas Felas Since launching Sistas Felas in 2020, Makhosazane (Makhosi) Ntshangase has won multiple prestigious awards, including Designer of the Year 2024 from the Durban Fashion Fair; Amaqhawe Our Heroes 2024 Winner at Zee Entertainment Africa; and second-place for the National Presidential SMME & Cooperatives Awards 2023 for Women-Led Business. Committed to township development, Makhosi collaborates with Trade & Investment KZN (TIKZN) and local government to provide skills and drive business creation through fashion. Supported by SEDA and Ray Nkonyeni Municipality, Makhosi organises the South Coast Annual Business Fair, an internationally recognised event that hosts designers and delegates from across the world. Drawing on this success, Sistas Felas signed a three-year agreement with Ray Nkonyeni Municipality in 2024 to continue this well-supported event. Operating from two branches in Gamalakhe township and a training Cut, Make, and Trim (CMT) studio in Port Shepstone, the company produces custom clothing, accessories, and branded merchandise while mentoring local designers under South Coast Designers. Through 100% FREE Fashion Design Training Programme, mentees gain exposure at major events like Durban Fashion Fair, Durban July, and Seychelles Fashion Week. With exhibitions in 12 countries and more than 30 cities worldwide, Sistas Felas has expanded to exporting to London and Seychelles. In terms of investment potential, Makhosi says they’re appealing to local and international organisations to grow the company, supporting their drive to increase permanent local employment and grow their export market. “We want to build a business that will promote the textile industry, create job opportunities for our communities, and promote the creative industry as a whole. To achieve this, we need investment in a local factory so we can expand to mass production of garments,” she commented. Sthesh Fashion Boutique Sthembile Mnguni, a self-taught designer and owner of the Port Shepstone-based Sthesh Fashion Boutique, has also seen significant success. She’s the recipient of The Next Billionaire 2023 award in the Clothing and Textile category, as well as winning the grand prize in the same category from the 2021 LOXION BIZ; and was nominated to showcase her work at Ukhozi FM alongside designer, Maxhosa Africa. Since starting in 2014, Sthesh Fashion Boutique has produced high-quality wedding gowns, matric dresses, and traditional attire. Commenting on her industry success, Sthembile says, “It’s important to remain consistent in producing quality-made garments while remaining loyal to customers.” She said her Buy Local membership has provided her with more opportunities to showcase her work, gaining more clients over the years: “The municipality has also funded exhibitions for further exposure, and I look forward to growing my brand and passing on this knowledge to the next generation.” Deon Zuider Samkele Deon Nxumalo, the Director and Head Fashion Designer at the Margate-based Deon Zuider label, also boasts prestigious designer awards, among them Designer of the Year at the 2023 South Coast Business Fair, and the 2022 Next Billionaire in the Clothing and Textile category. After the passing of his sister, Nonhlakanipho, in 2013, Samkele found himself without financial assistance to continue tertiary studies, and turned to fashion – a passion of his later sister’s: “This proved to be the best decision and I have built a hoard of loyal old and incoming clients who enabled me to pay rental for the business in an upmarket Margate location. We specialise in fashion design but have also recently bought a Dry-Cleaning business to ensure our clients take good care of their high-end garments.” Citing the brand’s legendary service, quality workmanship, and exceptional customer service as reasons for success, Samkele said they have also appreciated the Buy Local initiative: “The bulk of our fabric is bought locally and our equipment is bought and serviced locally. This initiative enables our company to spend less on fuel, and source materials at a reasonable price which benefits our clients.” Commenting on the investment needed in the region, Samkele noted: “Local fashion schools are needed and I would really love to open a fashion school and factory to produce a South African clothing line. Bulk production of corporate wear is another great area for investment, as employees are looking for respectable clothing to enhance self-confidence.” Investing in KZN South Coast fashion “The investment potential in the fashion and CMT industry is abundant on the KZN South Coast, and these fashion designers are proving this through their successful brands,” Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “Through our Buy Local initiative, we are providing business support and really encouraging our local businesses to source from local suppliers, and residents to consider buying from local businesses as a first option. Additionally, through SCTIE’s One Stop Shop [OSS] in Port Shepstone, which provides investor support, we are paving the way for further investment in this growth sector. Now’s the time to invest in fashion on the KZN South Coast!” Find out more by visiting the KZN South Coast website; following South Coast Tourism on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Watch why KZN South Coast is a top tourism destination here. Follow the hashtags #nowisthetime #nowisthetimetoinvest /ENDS Please note the image credit is
KZN South Coast Gears Up for the G20: A Business Tourism Perspective
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 24 February 2025 KZN South Coast Gears Up for the G20: A Business Tourism Perspective As South Africa prepares to host the G20 Summit, the KZN South Coast is positioning itself as a key player in business tourism, ready to welcome high-profile delegations, investors and corporate travellers. With world-class venues, stunning coastal and hinterland locations and a growing infrastructure, the region is primed to leverage the economic and tourism benefits of this global event. South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) is currently participating in Meetings Africa 2025, taking place at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. The event, which features 410 exhibitors, 26 African countries, over 300 hosted buyers, and 113 SMMEs, provides a vital platform for promoting the South Coast’s unique business tourism offerings to a global audience. “The G20 Summit presents an incredible opportunity for the KZN South Coast to showcase its world-class business tourism offerings,” said Dr. Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of SCTIE. “With our established MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) facilities, unique team-building experiences and ongoing infrastructure development through the Eastern Seaboard initiative, we are ready to host and attract major business events.” The region’s diverse portfolio of conference venues, from beachfront resorts to exclusive hinterland retreats, makes it an attractive destination for high-level meetings and networking events. Additionally, its proximity to key economic hubs and transport routes ensures accessibility for international and national business travellers. SCTIE’s participation in Meetings Africa underscores its commitment to enhancing the region’s business tourism appeal. The event serves as a prime opportunity to connect with global buyers and event planners, positioning the South Coast as a premier destination for corporate retreats, incentive travel and investment opportunities. “With infrastructure upgrades, sustainable tourism practices and a strategic focus on business travel, the South Coast is not just a leisure destination it is a dynamic hub for economic growth,” added Dr. Sibiya. “The G20 will serve as a catalyst for future large-scale business events and investment in the region.” As the global spotlight turns to South Africa, the KZN South Coast remains committed to job creation, inclusive growth and positioning itself as a premier destination for business and investment. /ENDS About South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) SCTIE was established as the official economic development arm of the KZN South Coast which extends from Scottburgh to Port Edward, and inland to Harding. It is a legal entity of the Ugu District Municipality with executive powers, serving the Ugu District and its family of municipalities. The entity is committed to identifying and unlocking the full tourism and investment potential of this region. SCTIE achieves its mandate of promoting investment through dedicated marketing initiatives, product development, business support and training, dedicated networking events, and breaking down barriers to local investment. From the coast to the hinterland, the KZN South Coast has a wealth of untapped investment potential for those who are looking to branch out into the district and uncover opportunities. The attractive location, subtropical climate, natural assets and accessibility make the KZN South Coast a prime investment destination. By engaging with local and international role players, SCTIE seeks to assist investors looking to uncover hidden gems across various economic sectors, including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, real estate, logistics and transport, and the ocean economy, among others. For more information, visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. Issued and disseminated by: South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) For more information please contact: Vanessa Gounden Marketing Coordinator Cell: 039 682 7944 Email: vanessa@sctie.co.za