Conference set to be catalyst for growth in region

KNYSNA NEWS - The Greater Knysna Business Chamber, the Knysna municipality and the Yona Yethu Initiative, in partnership with the Garden Route District Municipality, are excited to announce the upcoming Garden Route Regional Investment Conference 24 (RIC24), scheduled for 15 November.

This year’s conference, which will be held at the Premier Hotel, Knysna, will feature Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile Paul Mashatile as the keynote speaker, alongside distinguished guests such as Ashor Sarupen, Deputy Minister of Finance, and executive mayor Andrew Stroebel of the Garden Route District Municipality.

Key focus areas of RIC24:

1. Economic development for SMMEs: RIC24 aims to unlock opportunities for small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs), addressing the challenges at the intersection of land development and environmental conservation in Knysna.

2. Investment promotion: The conference will showcase diverse investment opportunities across critical sectors - such as agriculture, renewable energy, and infrastructure -targeting both domestic and foreign direct investment to stimulate the local economy.

3. Collaboration and networking: By gathering delegates from government, NGOs, and the private sector, RIC24 will facilitate meaningful networking opportunities to support SMME growth and investment initiatives.

4. Skills development and training: Emphasising the need for skills development in education, communication, and information technology, the programme aims to equip local communities to meet the demands of a changing economy.

5. Key economic sectors: RIC24 will promote sustainable development through investment packages aimed at critical sectors, including agriculture, arts and culture, renewable energy, and the ocean economy.

The Greater Knysna Business Chamber is committed to fostering active citizenry and economic growth through collaboration between public and private sectors. Our mission is to create a thriving business environment that benefits all residents of Knysna.

We invite all interested parties to join us for this pivotal event aimed at driving investment and development in our region.

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