Project Description
The KZN India Business Forum, which was launched last week at the Pavilion Hotel, will be the ideal platform to network, build strong economic partnerships and foster goodwill among India and South Africa. These were the remarks expressed by newly-elected chairman of the organisation, Omie Singh, who had retired from active politics, early this year. The launch saw men and women from different spheres of life, in the fields of health, economics, business, science and technology, real estate, engineering and law, come together under one banner.
Singh stated that after retiring from active politics, it is now time to give back to the community. “I have about 25 years of parliamentary experience and now that I am retired, I want to give back to my community. We formed the forum to create opportunities for local businessmen and women in South Africa and vice-versa. It is also one way we can contribute to stimulating the local economy and at the same time, create social cohesion. We also want to build non-racialism,” he said, adding that all businesses are welcome to join the growing business forum. Singh said, “While we want to cement this forum in KZN, we would like to replicate this forum in all provinces. We have started with India but eventually we want to network with most of the emerging markets,” he continued. The eThewini Economic Development and Business Support, deputy city manager, Philip Sithole, told the audience that such forums are important so that government is in touch with the people. “There is a perception that Indian people only get business opportunities and projects. Through a forum like this, we can address these issues. We want to build an economy that is inclusive of all people,” he said.
A businessman, who attended the the launch, shared that this is a wonderful initiative by former parliamentarian, Omie Singh. He said, “This was long overdue. It will not only create economic stimulus for the province of KZN but will also create job opportunities. For the first time, we can engage with the business people in India. I am looking forward to start the dialogue and doing business.”
The executive committee together with board members of the KZN India Business Forum. – Overport 5 Dec.