During the past week, private sector and public sector met during a series of meetings to discuss a broad spectrum vision to arrive at catalytic projects to propel the district of Ehlanzeni to the number one spot it      potentially should own.  The groups met as Agriculture & Forestry, Tourism, Mining, Infrastructure and finally Skills Development.  It was super inspirational and we were encouraged by the massive amount of           enthusiasm that exists to fix things!  Here are only some of the visionary concepts that will drive development of the        Ehlanzeni district:

Vision / Mission for Ehlanzeni District’s Development

• Get farms bought out by government, back into     production in partnership with commercial farmers
• Get International Fresh Produce Market to work!
• Get SEZ to work with local economy as a priority
• Make concessions available for potential tourism   development on government land, i.e. Panorama  attractions, Pilgrim’s Rest, World Heritage Site, etc.
• Source funding for feasibility studies—grants and loans are available but we lack funding for studies
• Resolve illegal mining by making processes and  funding easier for small scale miners.
• Rail transport to be restored / manage trucks better
• Independent Power Producers, lots of potential here in solar, hydro, gas and nuclear.  We can be energy independent.  Can solve municipal funding as well.
• Bulk water infrastructure (new dams)
• Manufacturing of basic goods that are carted here from Johannesburg and Durban.  Buy Local!
• Waste economy exploration (energy)
• Reliable, hi-speed internet and telephone communication.
• Solve the border post(s) congestion.
• Stipends from SETAs for internships to be applied to place interns at small businesses (NOT GOVT!)