View/Open - University of Zululand Institutional Repository
View/Open - University of Zululand Institutional Repository
View/Open - University of Zululand Institutional Repository
You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
• Strengthening the LED enabling environment;<br />
• Promoting learning and knowledge exchange; and<br />
• Establishing effective and innovative LED management functions.<br />
The programme comprises a number <strong>of</strong> LED funding and technical assistance instruments,<br />
which fundamentally include:<br />
• The Business Enabling Fund (BEF), an application-based fund aimed at assisting<br />
provincial and local government creates an enabling envimnrnent for LED.<br />
• The Local Competitiveness Fund (LCF) which encourages partnerships which<br />
facilitate private sector investment in sustainable LED projects;<br />
• Networking and Cooperation Funding (NCF) aimed at generating, learning and the<br />
exchange <strong>of</strong>knowledge; and<br />
• Technical Assistance provided by the Programme Coordinating Unit to support the<br />
roll out <strong>of</strong> the programme as a whole fwww.selda.org.za/directory.igad.htm.<br />
(2007)].<br />
This research embraces the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Development Plan as a significant<br />
contribution to rural and urban growth and development, and necessary for the diversification<br />
<strong>of</strong>the economy <strong>of</strong>the study area, Ulundi.<br />
The South African government in pursuance <strong>of</strong> rural development and urban renewal, as key<br />
strategies to counter the legacy <strong>of</strong> uneven development in the country, aims to suppon all<br />
municipalities in South Africa This is to be achieved by focusing on the participation <strong>of</strong> big<br />
business and SMMEs with a view <strong>of</strong> addressing the needs <strong>of</strong> the poor and marginalised<br />
people and local communities (Local Economic Development, 200 I). Among the key<br />
principles underlying the LED process are that:<br />
• Strategies must prioritise job creation and poveny alleviation.<br />
• They must target the previously disadvantaged people, marginalised communities<br />
and geographical regions, black empowerment enterprises and SMMEs to allow<br />
them to participate in the economic life <strong>of</strong>the country. Each locality may develop<br />
an approach that is best suited to its local context.<br />
• They promote local ownership, community involvement, local leadership and joint<br />
decision making, in collaboration with outside investors.<br />
55