Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality and Eden Sport Council to host the Eden/Garden Route Inaugural Municipal Sports Indaba
For immediate release 14 April 2026
The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) in collaboration with the Eden Sport Council, including sports federations and local municipalities in the district, are gearing up to host the first ever Sports Indaba within the Western Cape, on 23 April 2026.
The Eden/Garden Route Inaugural Municipal Sports Indaba will be attended by representatives from the Western Cape Provincial Government’s (WCG) Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport led by Minister Ricardo Mackenzie, Executive Mayors and representatives from the Eden Sport Council including sports federations, as well as sport representatives at local municipal level in the district.
The purpose of the event will be to inclusively address ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration and improve sport structures across the district. The programme will also focus on how:
the role of municipalities in sport development can be strengthened;
access to and maintenance of sport facilities can be improved; and
opportunities to position the region as a leading sport tourism destination, can be explored.
Developing a clear and shared understanding of roles and responsibilities among all sport stakeholders operating within the district, is thus a vital focal point as these aspects will be addressed.
Other key focus areas for discussion at the event will include:
Custodianship of Sport – who holds the responsibility for sport at municipal and district level, and how this role is
exercised in practice.
Role of Municipalities in Sport Development – how municipalities can support federations, clubs, and athletes through programmes, partnerships, and policy implementation.
Infrastructure, Facilities and Development – ensuring access to quality facilities, maintenance of infrastructure, and long-term planning for sport development.
Sport Tourism and Major Events – opportunities to position the Garden Route district as a hub for sport tourism and major events.
Funding and Resource Support – available funding streams, support mechanisms, and opportunities for financial sustainability within sport structures.
Municipal Sport Council Structures and Jurisdiction – the structure, legitimacy, and operational boundaries of municipal sport councils within the district.
The event will take place at the Council Chambers of GRDM, starting from 10:00 and it will include approximately 80 delegates in hybrid format.
Through constructive dialogue and shared understanding, stakeholders aim to position themselves to better serve federations, local councils, and athletes, while fostering stronger partnerships together with municipal stakeholders.
Photo caption: Ready for the Eden/Garden Route Inaugural Municipal Sports Indaba are (fltr): Zelda van Staden (Eden Sport Council Secretary), Ald. Marais Kruger (GRDM Executive Mayor) and Desmond Speelman (Eden Sport Council Chairperson).
Media Release: GRDM and stakeholders hand over Pistol Filling Machine worth R30 000 toNatural African Queen
For immediate release 12 March 2026
During the 2024/2025 financial year, through the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise) programme, Natural African Queen, applied for a Pistol Filling Machine to grow her Oudtshoorn based business that specialises in skin and haircare products.
Two days ago on 10 March 2026, the machine was officially handed over to brand owners, Nirvana and Henricus Gysman in Oudtshoorn, to improve product output and speed up the overall production operations of their business.
Ms Gysman received a proof of purchase envelop at the 2024/2025 MSME Support and Development Programmes’ hand-over ceremony that took place in August 2025. The machine took 120 working days to be manufactured, excluding the December 2025 shutdown period, resulting in approximately six months of manufacturing.
The Pistol Filling Machine worth R30 000, is a specialised machine procured through the service provider, Casidra, and handed over by the GRDM Executive Mayor, Marais Kruger, on behalf of GRDM, in collaboration with representatives from the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA) and Casidra.
FLTR: Warren Marcus (Casidra), Richard Dyantyi (GRDM), Quinton Coetzee (SEDFA), Cllr Marais Kruger (GRDM Executive Mayor), Nirvana and Henricus Gysman (African Natural Queen), as well as Cllr Rosina Ruiters (GRDM) during the ceremony.
Owners of Natural African Queen, Nirvana and Henricus Gysman, took the Pistol Filling Machine to the value of R30 000 into acceptance, at the handover ceremony that was held at their premises in Oudtshoorn on 10 March 2026.
In addition, GRDM Portfolio Chairperson: District Economic Development and Tourism, Ald. Rosina Ruiters, shared congratulatory words to the Gysman couple saying: “We as a District Municipality through this project helps the MSMEs of the Garden Route to give them a boost and with that we extend words of appreciation to our partners SEDFA and Casidra”. In closing her remarks, Ruiters highlighted that “when all stakeholders leave this premises here today, all the efforts of the partners to procure and hand over the machine to Natural African Queen, will be worth it”.
Branch Manager of SEDFA serving the Garden Route and Central Karoo District, Quinton Coetzee emphasised that a business is about partnerships – we should build strong relationships with partners and stakeholders – a community, almost as if you go back to school. “Of the contribution that we plan to make, we have already invested 5% into the initiative and now we want to witness it grow,” Coetzee added. Warren Marcus, Senior Project Manager at Casidra, extended a congratulatory message with the Gysman couple and highlighted that “we are excited that the machine is now handed over African Natural Queen and we believe it will contribute significantly to the growth of the business”.
Mayor Kruger in the presence of Ald. Rosina Ruiters, stakeholders and officials, handed over the machine to Ms Gysman, to increase the business’s productivity contributing to the overall economic growth of Oudtshoorn and the Garden Route district. During his address, Mayor Kruger highlighted that it is heartwarming for the GRDM to know that “we could contribute to a business that knows what they are doing, what they want and how they want to grow and see the future of the brand”. In addition, Mayor Kruger stated that for GRDM to invest in your brand, “will not only make your production more efficient, but will also expand opportunities for the business and enlarge your world, ensuring that your production move forward”. In addition, Mayor Kruger expressed his excitement on behalf of GRDM to walk the journey with African Natural Queen.
Gysman admitted that it is an emotional moment for her when she explained how it all started in her mother’s kitchen with only 10 small bottles and at the time. In conclusion she said: “When we discovered that the business had the potential to grow as it changed the lives of people, especially people with health/skin challenges such as alopecia, we moved forward and expanded our brand”. For these reasons, Gysman expressed her gratitude to all stakeholders involved in providing the machine to African Natural Queen.
GRDM continuously prioritises small businesses in the district and, through the MSME Programme, envisages, with partners, to reach more businesses to improve the lives of people in the district while contributing to the growth of the Garden Route economy.
Media Release: Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism celebrates Tourism Month 2025
For immediate release 1 September 2025
Tourism Month, celebrated every September, highlights the vital role tourism plays in South Africa’s economy and communities.
In the Garden Route and Klein Karoo (GR&KK) region, tourism is a powerful driver of sustainable transformation, creating jobs, attracting local investment, and fostering a sense of regional pride. By promoting cultural exchange and showcasing the area’s rich heritage and traditions, tourism not only strengthens the local identity but also encourages responsible travel practices that preserve the environment and empower communities for future generations.
A basic intro of the GR&KK
The Garden Route and Klein Karoo (GR&KK) region is one of South Africa’s most breath-taking and diverse travel destinations. Stretching over 24,000 km from Witsand in the west to Plettenberg Bay in the east, this region is home to lush forests, pristine beaches, majestic mountains, and charming towns like Still Bay, Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Oudtshoorn, Calitzdorp, and Ladismith and more!
As a key tourism hub, the GR&KK offers something for everyone from thrilling outdoor adventures and rich wildlife to cultural heritage and culinary delights. Under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” the region continues to grow in ways that protect its natural beauty, celebrate its people, and create lasting opportunities for local communities.
Find out what the Garden Route & Klein Karoo has to offer or for more information, visit/contact:
Media Alert: Sedfa, in partnership with GRDM and partners, to host Pop-Up Market in George
29 – 31 August 2025 at the Garden Route Mall, George.
The South African Enterprise Development Finance Agency (Sedfa), in partnership with Garden Route District Municipality and other key ecosystem partners, is proud to host the Sedfa and Garden Route Pop-Up Market from 29 to 31 August 2025 at the Garden Route Mall, George.
The official opening and walkabout will take place on Friday, 29 August at 13h30, led by Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel, alongside Sedfa representatives and ecosystem partners.
The Pop-Up Market will shine a spotlight on local Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), offering them a platform to showcase their products, network with potential buyers, and grow their market access.
“This market is a direct response to the need for greater visibility and access for local entrepreneurs. At Sedfa, we believe in supporting MSMEs through practical platforms that not only promote their products but also build pathways toward long-term economic inclusion.” – Kiewet Mhlongo, Acting Provincial Manager: Western Cape, Sedfa.
“Garden Route District Municipality is proud to support initiatives that give local Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) the much-needed exposure they deserve. This Pop-Up Market is more than just an opportunity to showcase locally made products; it is also a platform that strengthens our economy from the ground up. As the Municipality, we remain committed to creating meaningful partnerships that open doors for MSMEs to drive job creation and stimulate sustainable development throughout the region and beyond.” – Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel
The Members of the Media are invited to attend the opening and engage with MSME participants and stakeholders.
Media Release: Indian Consul Visits GRDM to Explore Potential Collaborations
6 August 2025
This week Tuesday, the Consulate General of India in Cape Town, led by Consul Ruby Jaspreet, along with the Vice Consul General Mr Prince Kumar and their Marketing Officer Ms Mkize, officially visited the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM). This marked the Consul General’s first official visit to the region since her appointment in January 2025, a first-ever visit by the Consulate General of India.
The Garden Route District Municipality delegation led by Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel opened the meeting signalling it a ‘historical event’ by welcoming the guests to the beautiful Garden Route. He gave a brief overview of the district, the major towns that constitute the region, and highlighted several picturesque features that the region is endowered with in which any visitor can enjoy.
In response to the Executive Mayor, the Consul General thanked him and his delegation for the warm and sincere welcome and further expressed that they were ‘very grateful’ to be in the Garden Route District. She noted that the Consulate has had a 30-year presence in Cape Town and emphasised their interest to expand their footprint to other parts of the province. In outlining the purpose of their visit, she began by referring to the historic trade relationships that this region, province and country share with India. She reduced her submission to India’s strengths; priority sectors; and potential areas of collaboration that could serve to further enhance the already existing relations.
Jaspreet further highlighted the following key areas during her address:
Exploring potential areas of cooperation between India and municipalities in the Garden Route District.
Providing an update on various capacity building initiatives led by the Government of India.
Identifying opportunities for educational collaboration.
Tourism and creating programmes for Tour Operators to increase the Indian market.
Energy with specific focus on Renewable Energy.
IT Sector with specific focus of Digitalisation.
Discussing strategies to enhance two-way trade and investment.
The Executive Mayor responded with a few remarks, highlighting on current opportunities in the Garden Route that aligns with some of the key areas touched on by the Consult General. He briefly elaborated on several developments and opportunities in the region, including the public-private partnership between GRDM and Solar Energy Africa for the establishment of a new Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station in George, one of the first of its kind in the region. “This initiative serves as an opportunity to promote the Garden Route as a green energy route,” said Stoebel. He further highlighted some of the agricultural products exported from the region to Dubai and other European countries.
Lusanda Menze, Executive Manager of Integrated Planning and Economic Development delivered a presentation on behalf of the GRDM. He emphasis the importance of creating and enabling an environment that is attractive to investment. He unpacked the Growth and Development Strategy of the GRDM that serves as a 20-year roadmap for development in the region, supported by a strong implementation structure and offering opportunities for collaboration and joint decision-making. It includes, amongst others, various investment opportunities in the region, as well as the current catalytic projects assisting in economic growth. These include the Garden Route Regional Landfill Facility in Mossel Bay, the Agro-processing Facility in Oudtshoorn, and the GRDM Skills Mecca initiatives which was established to identify skills gaps and demands across all sectors and to ensure the supply of relevant skills to meet those demands.
Menze concluded with some of the proposed infrastructure and energy investment opportunities, including the planned Solar PV Plant in Dysselsdorp, and the Digital Transformation Connectivity and Data Centre project, which aim to ensure consistent access to information across region. He also mentioned other proposed projects related to Urban & Economic Development as well as Transport and Logistic Enhancement, which include the development of the Port of Mossel Bay, the Expansion of the George Airport, and the establishment of a Fresh Produce Market in the region.
Some of the slides presented by GRDM
Richard Dyantyi, Manager: District Economic Development, Tourism and EPWP, during his remarks re-emphasised the existing Indian market in the region, highlighting the Cango Caves in Oudtshoorn as one of the main ‘drawcards’ and key attractions for Indian tourism market.
From a Tourism perspective, GRDM Regional Tourism Officer, Denver Johnson, highlighted the fact that there is currently no direct flight between India and South Africa, and that the cost and safety perception remain key challenges for the Indian market. He also noted the limitations in accommodation offerings across the region particularly in meeting the Indian market’s dietary requirements, which often include the need for separate kitchen facility. However, he pointed out that there are already certain establishments and restaurants in the Garden Route & Klein Karoo that offer such facilities, presenting opportunities for future expansion to better service this growing market.
Following the GRDM delegation’s presentation along with inputs from the two Members of the Mayoral Committee, Ald. Rosina Ruiters and Councillor Dave Swarts, and the Acting Municipal Manager, Raisa-Mlandu, the Consul General of India posed a few questions to gain clarity on specific projects and their value propositions. She thanked the GRDM for a well-delivered presentation and reassured the Executive Mayor and delegation that they have identified several projects highlighted during the presentation where the Government of India would consider collaborating with GRDM and expressed her interest in further discussions and engagement.
Featured image and above: The Consulate General of India’s delegation with the Garden Route District Municipality delegation during the meeting.
In conclusion, and in closing a very fruitful deliberation, the GRDM Executive Mayor thanked the Indian delegation for choosing the GRDM for their visit. He expressed that as the Garden Route Municipality, they look forward to future collaborations that will yield mutual benefit for both parties.
Media Release: Public-Private EV Charging Partnership Launched in Garden Route
For immediate release 03 July 2025
The Garden Route’s green mobility future is charging forward with the confirmation of a landmark public-private pledge signed this afternoon at the François Ferreira Academy. The initiative commits land and infrastructure for the establishment of a new Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station in George – one of the first of its kind in the region.
As part of this pioneering initiative, the François Ferreira Academy has donated the site for the first EV charging station to be installed by Solar Energy Africa, a leading national provider of solar power solutions. The pledge signed by Mayor Stroebel and stakeholders includes the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) and Africa Skills Private Training, both instrumental in the region’s economic and skills development.
This collaboration marks the first step in a broader rollout of EV charging stations strategically located along the N2 and in rural tourism nodes from Cape Town International Airport to Plettenberg Bay. The goal is to future-proof mobility in the Garden Route and beyond—supporting the transition to electric transport and enabling infrastructure for both locals and visitors.
This collaboration follows the Garden Route EV Seminar, hosted last week at Africa Skills GeorgeTech, where the growing demand for skilled artisans to support the EV sector took centre stage. The seminar explored South Africa’s evolving EV market and its impact on training, artisan development, and job creation.
The EV pledge was formally signed by:
Executive Mayor of GRDM, Alderman Andrew Stroebel
Jessica van der Merwe, Managing Director of Solar Energy Africa
Phillip Harmse, Director: New Business Development of UXi Artisan Development
The Western Cape Government is actively transitioning its public transport and fleet vehicles to electric alternatives. In alignment with this, Africa Skills has already introduced EV-relevant artisan training through its work-integrated learning model and accredited electrical apprenticeships.
“This shift to electric mobility is more than just an infrastructure change – it’s a skills revolution,” said Phillip Harmse. “From battery technology and EV maintenance to solar integration and charging installation, Africa Skills is equipping young artisans to meet this fast-growing demand.”
Speaking at the seminar, Anthonie Janse van Rensburg, Acting Chief Director of the Western Cape Department of Mobility, confirmed the rollout of new EV infrastructure. “Our vision is to establish fast, efficient EV charging hubs across the N2 corridor and urban centres. This is part of our broader EV fleet migration strategy for provincial and local government.”
Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel reaffirmed the municipality’s vision: “As a global tourism hub, the Garden Route must be EV-ready. We’re embracing innovation and partnerships to make this happen.”
As demand for EV adoption increases and the national government explores limitations on internal combustion imports, the Garden Route stands poised to become a leading green mobility destination – powered by solar, driven by skilled artisans, and supported through strong public-private collaboration.
Issued by UXi Artisan Development
Enquiries Images, Soundbites or Interviews: Jan Greyling – 082 556 8778, jan@uxi-ad.co.za
Feature Image:
FLTR: Alex Engelke (Corporate Services: UXi Artisan Development & Africa Skills, Phillip Harmse (New Business Development: UXi Artisan Development), Jessica van der Merwe (CEO: Solar Energy Africa), Andrew Stroebel (Executive Mayor: Garden Route District Municipality), Johan du Plooy (Operations Manager: François Ferreira Academy & Apprentice) and Lizelle Wessels (Corporate Services: UXi Artisan Development).
Public Notice: Register on the Garden Route Skills Mecca Unemployment Database
6 May 2025
The Garden Route District Municipality invites unemployed persons currently residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area, to register themselves on the Garden Route Skills Mecca Unemployment Database.
WHY REGISTER?
By registering, you will:
Be included in a central database used to match job seekers with opportunities.
Be considered for skills development programs and employment initiatives.
Receive communication about relevant training and development projects.
HOW TO REGISTER:
1. Visit:https://skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za/.
2. Click the red button labelled “Unemployment Solutions”.
3. Select “Create Account”.
4. Go to “Your Profile” and choose “Create Your Unemployment Profile”.
5. Fill in all required information.
6. Upload the following documents:
– Your CV;
– A certified copy of your ID; and
– Certified qualifications
For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Reginald Salmons at 044 803 1363, Ms Khanyisa Madolo at 044 803 1456 or Mrs Nolwando Sambokwe at 044 803 1345 during office hours only. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
Should candidates not be contacted within one month of the closing date, they must consider their application as
unsuccessful.
Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca Launches Tourism & Hospitality Project with Comprehensive Induction Workshops
For immediate release 28 February 2025
The Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM), which forms part of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), has officially launched its new Tourism and Hospitality Project, a significant initiative funded by the National Skills Fund (NSF), with a series of comprehensive induction workshops held across the Garden Route. The sessions commenced on 24 February 2025 and today the last session is held in Hessequa at the Riversdale Civic Centre.
Areas where workshops were already conducted include Bitou, Knysna, Mossel Bay, George, Calitzdorp, Ladismith and Oudtshoorn.
A packed hall of participants in attendance at the Workshop conducted in Knysna.
These workshops, facilitated by Reginald Salmons, Coordinator for Skills Development at GRDM, marked the commencement of a valuable opportunity for Work Integrated Learners (WIL) and Cooks to acquire essential skills and to contribute to the region’s vibrant hospitality industry.
Portfolio Chairperson for Corporate Services, Ald. Nompumelelo Ndayi said: “The sessions brought together learners and host employers from local businesses, with the GRDM team playing a pivotal role in guiding the participants and providing crucial insights”.
The Induction Workshop conducted in Mossel Bay on 25 February 2025.
Each morning, participants were welcomed by a representative of the respective municipality, fostering a positive and collaborative atmosphere, followed by a detailed overview of the GRSM’s background. Salmons further emphasised the importance of the GRSM in the local community and its contribution to regional skills development.
Following an opportunity for attendees to network and engage with one another, these workshops also explored the core components of the program, including:
a thorough review of the learner contract of employment;
the Code of Conduct;
the roles and responsibilities of host employers; and
salary cut-off dates.
“Discussions are designed to ensure that all participants have a clear understanding of their obligations and expectations, promoting transparency and accountability throughout the program,” said Ndayi.
Presentations made by the GRDM and NSF teams during the Induction Workshop in Oudtshoorn.
A dedicated question and answer session was built into the programme that provided learners with a platform to address any queries or concerns, fostering open communication and ensuring clarity. The induction concluded with a heartfelt expression of gratitude to the learners for their participation.
The launch of this NSF-backed Hospitality Project represents a significant investment in the future of the Garden Route’s workforce. By providing learners with essential skills and practical experience, the project aims to enhance their employability and contribute to the continued growth of the region’s thriving hospitality sector.
According to Mayor Andrew Stroebel, the GRSM’s commitment to skills development is “evident in the comprehensive nature of the induction workshops, laying a solid foundation for the success of the project and its participants”.
“This initiative promises to empower individuals and strengthen the local hospitality industry, ensuring a brighter future for the Garden Route,” he concluded.
More Induction Workshops conducted across the district.
Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality and stakeholders held Export Seminar in George
For immediate release 20 September 2024
Yesterday, 19 September 2024, various stakeholders including the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, Wesgro and the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) and other support organisations convened at the George Banquet Hall to participate in an export seminar.
Stakeholder representatives at the Export Seminar held on 19 September 2024 in George.
Deputy Mayor of George Municipality, Ald Raybin Figland, welcomed all present at the event.
Ald. Rosina Ruiters, GRDM Portfolio Chairperson: Integrated Economic Development & Tourism shared a message of support.
Krishen Gorge: Acting Head of Export Promotion at Wesgro during his presentation. at the seminar.
Richard Dyantyi, Manager: Integrated Economic Development & Tourism, delivered a presentation on behalf of GRDM.
Ilsa van Schalkwyk, Acting Director-General of DEDAT, provided an overview of the purpose of the District Export Outreaches.
George Business Chamber’s Theo Adams, presented the operations and successful projects rolled out by the Chamber.
Martin Cameron from the Trade Research Advisory shared an overview on an export study and opportunities.
GRDM’s Cllr Cobus Meiring, shared his appreciation to all stakeholders and business representatives who attended the event.
Martinus van Wyk from DEDAT, facilitated the proceedings and discussions of the Export Seminar held in George.
The seminar that was hosted by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, in collaboration with Wesgro and the GRDM, created a platform for potential exporters in the region to be informed about the new export markets and export opportunities. The seminar allowed for businesses to engage in information sharing, awareness creation and networking with strategic partners. Mechanisms to enhance export competitiveness were also shared at the event.
In his welcoming address to attendees, the Deputy Mayor of George, Ald Raybin Figland, said that the engagement is a platform for like-minded individuals with one goal in the centre of it all; how to promote and drive economic growth, so that the economies, district and the Western Cape, can flourish.
Extending a message of support to all organisations, businesses owners and entrepreneurs who formed part of the event, Ald. Rosina Ruiters, Portfolio Chairperson for Integrated Economic Development and Tourism at the GRDM said: “The Garden Route District Municipality has a dedicated Business Support and Development Programme through which we support various businesses including those with export potential”. In addition, Ruiters highlighted that exporting products presents an invaluable opportunity for economic diversification and growth, creating jobs and generating wealth for our communities as is stated in the GRDM’s Growth and Development Strategic Vision”. Ruiters also emphasised that the success of the region’s export initiatives relies on strong partnerships. “Collaboration between government, private businesses, and trade experts is essential to building the networks that will open doors to new markets, ” she said. Ruiters encouraged all businesses present to utilise these resources and networks as they embark on or expand their export journeys, and that the event will leave them inspired and ready to take the next steps toward expanding their business globally. While encouraging all present to seize the opportunities ahead and transform potential into prosperity, she said: “The world is looking for what the Garden Route has to offer, and together, we can ensure that our district shines on the global stage”.
Ilse van Schalkwyk, Chief Director for Economic Sector Support at DEDAT provided an overview of the purpose of the District Export Outreaches and shared some background of the provincial Growth for Jobs and export strategies. She also presented the export trends for the Western Cape and sensitized exporters on support levers available to the private sector.
Richard Dyantyi, Manager responsible for Integrated Economic Development and Tourism at the GRDM, delivered a presentation on the Garden Route Export Development initiatives. He further proudly mentioned a few commodities that are being exported from the region, that includes: canola, pomegranate, wines, ostriches to name a few. In terms of the potential commodities that are ready to be exported, honeybush was highlighted as one of the products as an example. With regards to a conducive environment to compliment these export activities, Dyantyi said that plans to develop the port in Mossel Bay are fast progressing for the purpose of diverting goods that need to be exported and he that “Mossel Bay port is a strategic link between Cape Town and Richards Bay and/or Durban. Dyantyi further emphasised that all stakeholders need to focus on a plan that is fit for purpose, specifically for the Garden Route, that will also consider the inputs from businesses of the district in terms of exporting.
Safari Braai Products representative, Peter Reinstorff, presented the export operations of the local braai company that is exporting for almost 11 years. The company is currently exporting a diverse range of products across the world. To potential exporters present, he advised that businesses need to focus on the quality of the product, and that business owners should study the market to determine the demand for the product and most importantly they should thoroughly study the relevant legislation in relation to exporting e.g. packaging requirements etc.
The event also allowed for the George Business Chamber representative, Theo Adams, to present the operations and projects successfully rolled out by the Chamber. While sharing detailed information of the Chamber, he also shared information on funding opportunities and the type of compliance documents that need to be submitted.
Martin Cameron from the Trade Research Advisory shared an overview on an export study and opportunities. Cameron further shared valuable advice on international trade and various factors on how geographic dimensions need to be considered for international trade. A few examples included socio-economic factors, e.g. religion, culture, taste, as well as transport focusing on circulatio]n and movement, commercial transactions as well as economic activities (supply and demand).
The event concluded with Nomandla Nene from Wesgro demonstrating to all business representatives how to access and navigate the Cape Trade Portal, which can be accessed at: https://capetradeportal.com/.
Cllr Cobus Meiring, Councillor at GRDM, extended a word of appreciation to the DEDAT and all stakeholders involved for hosting the event in the district, also focusing on seeing a database of exporters to be created, to utilise it as a working tool for potential exporters in the Garden Route.
Media Release: Garden Routers to benefit from LGSeta awarded Local Economic Development Programme – Students inducted
For immediate release 04 September 2024
The Garden Route District Municipality has been awarded a LGSETA Discretionary Grant to fund the National Certificate in Local Economic Development (SAQA 36436) for the training of 50 employed individuals from the district. On 27 August 2024, participants attended an Induction Session held at the GRDM’s Council Chambers.
The session was conducted by the GRDM Human Resource Unit, in collaboration with the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM). During the session, officials thoroughly reviewed all necessary documents and outlined the operational aspects of the program.
This 18-month qualification serves as an entry-level credential in Local Economic Development (LED), marking the first step in a qualifications framework that culminates in a Level 6 qualification. This NQF Level 4 qualification thus serves as a stepping stone towards the National Diploma in Local Economic Development at Level 5.
Participants who complete the program will gain essential knowledge and understanding of LED, including the critical role that Local Government plays in it. This qualification lays the foundation for developing practical competence in LED, enabling learners to identify key values and frameworks necessary for effective governance of local economic initiatives.
The qualification will equip future LED Officers with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to operate professionally in their roles. It will also enhance their career prospects by providing them with the expertise required to implement policies and procedures effectively in their field.
The Garden Route District Municipality is proud to coordinate and facilitate this programme for the seven Local Municipalities within the region.
As part of this pioneering initiative, the 
