KwaZulu-Natal Premier urges digital transformation for economic growth
Kwazulu-natal premier Thami Ntuli
Image: Independent Newspapers Archives
The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has called for the county to diversify its economy, pointing out that natural resources are not enough to sustain and grow the economy.
He said the future of the country's prosperity lies in what “is in our minds”.
Ntuli addressed delegates attending the 2025 GovTech Conference in Durban on Monday, urging them to embrace the transformative potential of digital technologies. He emphasised that such advancements should serve as instruments of inclusion, innovation, and prosperity for all South Africans.
Ntuli stated that the digital economy is the future and presents immense opportunities for job growth and employment.
He pointed out global lessons, noting that natural resources alone are insufficient for sustained development. “History shows that countries relying solely on mineral wealth often fall victim to economic volatility and underdevelopment. On the other hand, nations that have invested in human capital, technological innovation, and digital infrastructure, such as Singapore, South Korea, and Malaysia, have achieved remarkable growth and resilience.”
He reiterated that true prosperity in the 21st century would be driven not by what lies beneath the ground, but by what lies within minds due to skills, and creativity of people. Ntuli urged all stakeholders to prioritise education, digital skills development, and innovation ecosystems that are responsive to global trends and local needs.
“For KwaZulu-Natal, this presents both an opportunity and a responsibility. Our digital future must be inclusive. It must bridge divides, not deepen them. ICTs, when deployed thoughtfully and strategically, can democratise access to information, expand learning opportunities, and enable broad-based participation in emerging markets," he said.
He stated that South Africa must invest in technology. “KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa should have digital sovereignty, which is the ability of society to secure control over data, platforms, and the digital future. Digital sovereignty is more than a technical aspiration; it is a strategic imperative if we are to build an inclusive, resilient, and competitive economy.”
He described the digital economy as a fundamental pillar of sustainable development. “Across the globe, governments are increasingly harnessing the power of data and digital technologies to address contemporary challenges, improve public service delivery, and enhance decision-making. KwaZulu-Natal proudly positions itself within this global digital movement.”