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ZDM (planning Unit) that the natural growth <strong>of</strong>the aloe plant has also raised interests among<br />

both foreign and local investors to harvest the product. Less has been done to engage in a<br />

feasibility study <strong>of</strong>harvesting this resource. A more conducive economic environment that is<br />

suitable for general business welfare is necessary. The chamber <strong>of</strong> commerce has not been<br />

functional in Ulundi. These business administrative gaps create an impression that the local<br />

businesses are not supported by both the local and district municipalities.<br />

In the midst <strong>of</strong>the strengths and prevailing opportunities mentioned above, there are equally<br />

obvious weaknesses and threats facing the study area It appears though that a section <strong>of</strong><br />

respondents would favour industrial development (Figure 6.9) especially aloe harvesting and<br />

processing. Limited entrepreneurial skills and reluctance to take calculated risks could be<br />

perceived as part <strong>of</strong> the factors hindering the actualisation <strong>of</strong> the opportunities that tourism<br />

and agriculture present to the locals. Government has programmes to support ventures such<br />

as Land Redistribution and Agricultural Development (LRAD) grant <strong>of</strong> Land Affairs and<br />

Agriseta to ensure skills development through cooperatives. However, it is apparent that little<br />

is known about these programmes among household heads. Ulundi is currently characterised<br />

by non-diversified economy, limited shopping and residential facilities as well as<br />

unemployment. The political decision to relocate the provincial capital to Pietermaritzburg<br />

from Ulundi affected negatively the employment and economic activities <strong>of</strong> the area. Even<br />

with a strategy based on the analysis <strong>of</strong> its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats,<br />

Ulundi may struggle with nearby coastal centres. A more sustainable strategy informed by<br />

the analysis <strong>of</strong>its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats <strong>of</strong> Ulundi as typified above<br />

is necessary at this stage. Some degree <strong>of</strong> economic deflation may be expected; and should<br />

be managed to reduce the sociological impacts.<br />

Chapter six dealt with the situational and land use analysis <strong>of</strong>the local economic development<br />

<strong>of</strong>Ulundi. The objectives <strong>of</strong>the research were restated to give a fresh focus to the work:<br />

Objective 1<br />

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