In an interesting development aimed at building international collaboration and boosting the local economy, the South African town of Dundee has announced plans to establish twinning agreements with Dundees in Scotland and Australia.
During the recent Dundee July event, Mayor Siyabonga Ndlovu of Endumeni Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, unveiled this ambitious strategy.
In a report featured in Northern Natal News, the initiative seeks to attract much-needed investment to the region, which has faced numerous challenges, including failing infrastructure and economic setbacks following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mayor Ndlovu expressed the urgent need for external investment to rejuvenate the South African Dundee.
“I drive around town and I see what’s going on. I see that the old Ford building has been empty for two years. A KwikSpar has closed down. There are empty shops, and people and small businesses are struggling. But I believe by setting up these agreements with the ‘other Dundees’ we can encourage some kind of outside investment we desperately need."
One of the key challenges the town faces is water scarcity. To address this, the Mayor has announced plans to work with a private company to install boreholes, alleviating the crisis and ensuring a more reliable water supply.
In addition to these efforts, the Mayor highlighted the positive impact of local projects, such as the development of a private hospital in Glencoe, which is expected to create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the Endumeni region. These initiatives are crucial in providing local employment opportunities and preventing the outflow of the workforce to other areas.
Events like the Dundee July are also playing a significant role in showcasing the town's talent and attracting visitors, further contributing to the local economy. This annual event not only highlights the cultural vibrancy of Dundee but also serves as a platform for investment and growth.
Located in the picturesque valley of the Biggarsberg mountains, Dundee in KwaZulu-Natal boasts a rich history dating back to the Anglo Zulu War of 1879 and the discovery of coal deposits in 1882. Named after our city by a Scottish settler, the town is now looking to its Scottish and Australian counterparts to forge new paths of development.
As Dundee continues to evolve with ongoing projects and initiatives aimed at revitalising the local economy and infrastructure, the twinning agreement promises a brighter future for this historic town. The collaboration between the Dundees is expected to bring mutual benefits, fostering cultural exchange and economic prosperity.
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