Cisco a South African based IT multinational company has launched a R10 million worth incubation hub ‘Cisco Edge Incubation Centre’ in Durban with the aim to build small businesses and startups as well as quicken their entry into the marketplace. Based at the Dube Trade Port, the hub will be a second of its kind event launched by Cisco. The first was launched in Pretoria in November 2018.
Cisco SA and the Innovation Hub in Durban, has said the hub is part of the company’s commitment to action as regarding the country’s National Development Plan (NDP) 2030 towards job creation, skills development and economic growth.
Minister of Communications, Telecommunications and Postal Services Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams congratulated Cisco for contributing in building a digital economy through real and tangible efforts like; training youths and supporting local businesses.
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Dube Trade Port, where the Hub is based is a world-class special economic zone that augments South Africa’s manufacturing and export capabilities, and supports airport-related activities including cargo operations, agriculture, warehousing and commercial real estate. The trade port aids in promoting business growth, employment, revenue generation, the export of value-added commodities and the attraction of foreign and local investment. It is owned by the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government.
Clayton Naidoo, General Manager for Cisco Sub-Saharan Africa said “Our goal is to enable SMMEs to accelerate their growth by ensuring they get access to world-class technology. We are living in a world that is changing faster than ever imagined and we are inspired by the prospect of an economy with abundant jobs, a place where entrepreneurs can thrive.”
“With technology comes many opportunities, especially in Africa, the fastest growing region in the world. Cisco recognises Africa’s talent and we want to continue being an enabler of tech ecosystems across the continent. With our resources, SMMEs are not only able to grow but also stay competitive,” he said.
Dube Trade Port CEO, Hamish Erskine said, “The kind of facilities at this hub will give entrepreneurs the kind of head start they require to gain a competitive advantage. It will also help them stay ahead of the game in a tough marketplace, while boosting economic growth for the country.”