02 Dec Greater Knysna Business Chamber Achievements 2024

Posted at 14:22h in GKBC by

The year 2024 has been a remarkable journey of collaboration, resilience, and innovation for the Greater Knysna Business Chamber (GKBC). As a newly established entity moving from its foundational phase, GKBC has made significant strides in aligning with its Vision 2040 to make Greater Knysna “Investment Ready.” Our efforts have focused on creating an enabling economic environment, driving sustainable development, and fostering partnerships with key stakeholders.

Key Achievements of 2024

  1. Strategic Events and Engagements
  • Regional Investment Conference (RIC24): Co-hosted alongside Knysna Municipality, Garden Route District Municipality, and Yona Yethu, this event featured Deputy President Paul Mashatile as the keynote speaker, discussing strategic investment opportunities for Knysna.
  • International Relations: Hosted both the French Ambassador and Consul General, fostering discussions on mutual interests and exploring the twinning of Knysna with Gujan-Mestras, France, known for oyster production, yacht building, forestry and marine research and skills development in the region; and connection with the French South Africa Chamber of Commerce and industry (FSACCI)
  • New Events: Supported initiatives such as the GravelBurn 750km Cycle Tour and SAFA Women’s Soccer Championship tournament, enhancing Knysna’s reputation as a vibrant event destination. We also had an informational stall at the Knysna Oyster Festival recruiting new members
  • Membership Networking: rather than hold our own competing networking events, we partner with the well attended 2nd Thursday of the month Boerie Bash
  • All events and activities stimulate GKBC membership recruitment. With over a thousand on our mailing list, more can be done.to increase GKBC membership.
  1. Infrastructure and Environmental Initiatives
  • Wastewater Treatment Revival: Collaborated with Knysna Infrastructure Group (KIG) to revive the plant after years of inaction, supported by community and corporate partners.
  • Waste Management: Provided operational support to the municipal waste transfer station, including repairs, equipment maintenance, and upgrades.
  • Green Energy Initiative: Developed a proposal for a Waste-to-Energy investment, laying the groundwork for Knysna’s green energy future.
  • Active Citizenry: We support the Revive Knysna and Keep Knysna Clean initiatives that are cleaning up and inspiring the town and spawned similar initiative at Sedgefield
  1. Branding and Community Identity
  • Rebranding Success: Retained the iconic elephant in our new branding, symbolizing stability, wisdom, and community. Thanks to Judiet Barnes for her contributions to this transformation.
  1. Skills Development and Employment Creation
  • Youth Employment Programs: Partnered with the Garden Route Skills Mecca and local businesses like Premier Hotel and Simbavati on Sea, creating meaningful job opportunities for youth as part of Knysna’s post-fire rebuild strategy.
  • Mix Farming Initiative: Together with Knysna LED, the GKBC signed up 14 young individuals to do practical farming experience, fostering future food production capabilities.
  • Internship Placements: Supported numerous internships funded by the Garden Route District Municipality, enabling local businesses to mentor and train young professionals.
  1. Support for SMMEs and Tourism Growth
  • Business Support: Assisted small and medium enterprises with guidance and event support, bolstering their resilience during economic challenges.
  • Tourism Collaboration: Facilitated partnerships with tour operators, bringing over 2,000 passengers to Knysna and boosting the local travel industry.
  1. Social and Economic Development Initiatives
  • Homelessness Solutions: Played a pivotal role in developing plans for temporary shelters, ensuring dignity for the homeless while protecting Knysna’s tourism industry.
  • Safety and Security: Contributed to the creation of a Safety and Security Plan for the Central Business District (CBD) with a string focus on the establishment of a Community watch.
  • Community Engagement: Advanced discussions on municipal financial sustainability, IDP processes, and broader public participation as well as the towns Integrated Infrastructure Development plan for the eyras to come
  1. Partnerships and Recognition
  • Collaboration Agreements: Fostered strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, including Knysna Municipality and community organizations.
  • Recognition: Nominated as Best Business Chamber of the Month by AHI an d Business Network Western Cape, highlighting collective efforts in advancing Knysna’s economy.

Closing Reflections

The successes of 2024 are a testament to the dedication, vision, and collaborative spirit of our members and stakeholders. Together, we have made strides in infrastructure, skills development, and economic growth, setting a strong foundation for the future.

As we look to 2025, we remain committed to fostering sustainable development, enhancing community well-being, and building a resilient Greater Knysna.

Here’s to continued progress and a prosperous future for all!

 

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