The eThekwini Municipality went on a dynamic mission in the United Arab Emirates, aimed at enhancing sustainable urban development and transforming Durban into a smart city.
City Manager Musa Mbhele spearheaded this initiative with crucial discussions scheduled between 16 to 19 June 2025 in Abu Dhabi.
The objective was to forge strategic relationships with key governmental and business leaders that would unlock economic opportunities for the region.
Mbhele's delegation further embarked on a second round of talks following previous successful negotiations that laid the groundwork for collaboration on critical areas such as integrated mobility, urban planning, and digital governance.
This multifaceted mission marks a significant step towards leveraging advanced infrastructure innovations from the UAE that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of eThekwini.
Among the core mission objectives is the finalisation of agreements with the Integrated Transport Center (ITC) and the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).
These agreements are anticipated to usher in innovative transport solutions aligned with the aspirations of the eThekwini region, ensuring that mobility is not just efficient but also sustainable.Maqta Technologies, a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Ports Group, is another significant player in this engagement.
The delegation aims to explore technology-driven investment platforms that could lead to pioneering digital investment portals like the single window and the proposed “Invest in KZN” prototype, which seeks to ease the investment process into KwaZulu-Natal, enhancing its appeal to international investors.
Moreover, the visit aimed to tighten the knowledge exchange corridor established between Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and KwaZulu-Natal, focusing on cutting-edge logistics and sustainable infrastructure.
This includes an emphasis on advanced technologies in customs clearance and risk analytics, powered by innovative platforms such as BorderVision, RiskLab, and BorderMeter.On 16 June, constructive discussions were initiated by Mbhele along with Mr Lungelo Buthelezi, Project Executive in the Chief Operations Office, and Ms Nelisiwe Zama, Acting Head of eThekwini Transport Authority, with senior leaders from Dubai’s Department of Municipalities and Transport.
These discussions revolved around the urgent need to create urban spaces where mobility is intelligently connected and seamlessly integrated.
Mbhele articulated the vision behind these international engagements: “As urban landscapes evolve, the integration of smart transport systems, thoughtful urban planning, and municipal coordination has become more crucial than ever.
We are in the United Arab Emirates to leverage international best practices. By embracing innovation and strategic planning, we pave the way for a connected and resilient urban future for our city of Durban.”The eThekwini delegation also enjoyed the opportunity to meet key figures from Abu Dhabi’s intelligent mobility and digital infrastructure sectors.
Dr Emily Mogano, Vice President of Partnerships at the Sheikh Maktoum NEO Technologies Office, expressed enthusiasm for the growing collaboration and what it means for both regions involved.
Minister Abdulla Al Hashmi, Director of Traffic Systems at the ITC, shared invaluable insights on Abu Dhabi’s Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) sector, which includes advancements in smart mobility, traffic infrastructure optimisation, and safety measures driven by innovative technology.
Al Hashmi underscored the UAE’s readiness to partner with eThekwini to generate tailor-made solutions for Durban's urban landscape.
This series of engagements reinforces eThekwini’s commitment to proactive global cooperation and positions Durban as a prime candidate for international investment, mobility innovation, and smart governance.
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Autor(en)/Author(s): Ayanda Mdluli
Quelle/Source: Daily News, 30.06.2025
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