“Industrialisation remains the most effective pathway to economic transformation.” This was the strong message conveyed at the 9th annual Southern African Development Community (SADC) Industrialisation Week, which kicked off at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) today, 27 July.
Mayor Cyril Xaba officially opened the five-day event, welcoming delegates, government leaders, investors, and business representatives from across the Southern African region.
SADC Industrialisation Week (SIW) is the Southern African Development Community’s flagship week-long event aimed at advancing regional industrial development, investment, and economic transformation.
The programme includes an exciting line-up of high-level policy dialogues and technical sessions, investment and trade facilitation discussions, networking opportunities, strategic business and investment engagements, exhibitions, and industrial and factory site visits.
Under the theme, “Open, Resilient, Sustainable and Inclusive Industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World,” the event focuses on strengthening regional trade, expanding industrial capacity, and creating sustainable jobs.
The main goals of the week are to advance the SADC Industrialisation Strategy and Roadmap 2015–2063, which is centred on three pillars: industrialisation, competitiveness, and regional integration.
The event also aims to deepen regional value chains in agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, and critical minerals beneficiation; drive infrastructure development in energy, transport, logistics, water, and ICT; and promote investment mobilisation and industrial partnerships.
These objectives will be achieved while empowering women and young entrepreneurs through innovation and digital transformation.
In his opening address, Mayor Xaba said eThekwini is honoured to host this important gathering, describing Durban as a strategic gateway to Africa and a city committed to driving regional industrialisation, investment, and economic growth.
SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi said the week provides an opportunity to discuss the future of industrial development and that merely talking about change does not translate into action.“This platform enables us to share experiences, forge effective partnerships, create opportunities, and identify innovative solutions.
Aspirations alone will not bring about transformation; real implementation and the creation of opportunities for industries and businesses must lead the way.”
Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau said industrialisation provides a foundation for productivity, economic diversification, technological advancement, and greater resilience against external shocks.He added that stakeholders must be mindful of strategic vulnerabilities and focus on implementing outcomes that are measurable and visible.
The remainder of the week will feature discussions on investment, technology, pharmaceuticals, market access, and other key areas.
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