Although the whole of South African is enjoying a surge in economic growth, perhaps nothing sums up the feeling of dynamic optimism bubbling under the surface of KwaZulu-Natal’s growing economy better than a comment made by Dr Zweli Mkhize, provincial minister for finance and economic development, when he delivered his budget speech recently: “This year the journey to prosperity for all in the province continues.”

... an expensive buy

Trade in fake designer labels is a lucrative business as (unscrupulous or unwitting) vendors enjoy a brisk turnover in imitation goods and customers, desperate to remain stylish on a melting budget, happily grab what appears to be the ultimate in a fashion statement bargain.

The need for easy access to cash by the under serviced low-income sector of the industry led to a boom in the micro lending industry about a decade ago. While the micro lenders (Mashonisa in isiZulu) provided a bridge between the traditional banking sector and those who would not qualify for loans, their reputation for being unscrupulous loan sharks quickly grew, often with justification.

Storytelling is part of our South African ethos – and KwaZulu-Natal is no different. If you listen carefully you will hear the echoes of the past whisper on the warm sub-tropical breeze … stories of pioneers and adventurers, pirates, shipwrecks and lost treasures. Tales of overcoming hardships and the forging of friendships; themes of love and betrayal, set against a backdrop of verdant green landscapes teeming with wildlife for the hunting, and the devastating brutality of war.