KOMANI- The representatives of the Ethiopian business community have pledged to work with the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality to stimulate economic growth and create jobs following their first formal engagement with the Mayor Cllr. Madoda Papiyana.
The meeting, held 29th May 2026 marked the first official discussions between the municipality and representatives of Ethiopian nationals living and conducting business in the region.
According to the municipality, the Ethiopian Community approached local government with the aim of introducing itself and establishing constructive working relations with both the municipality and broader government structures.
The group, which represents Ethiopian nationals legally residing in South Africa, said it was committed to partnering with the municipality to strengthen the local economy and contribute to employment opportunities.
Papiyana welcomed the engagement, describing it as an important step towards fostering cooperation between government and the business sector.
“This municipality is willing to work with all businesses as long as this is conducted legally,” he said. “We have the responsibility to create a conducive environment for business to thrive. We must be united in fighting crime and building our towns.”
The mayor acknowledged the contribution made by Ethiopian-owned businesses and other entrepreneurs in creating employment opportunities within local communities.
Furthmore, his comments come weeks after the municipality removed several shipping containers used for business operations in parts of the municipality, a move that sparked debate among some residents and traders.
Papiyana stressed that the action was taken against illegal business practices and was not directed at any specific nationality.
“A few weeks ago we removed containers due to illegal business practices, not because of their nationality,” he said.“As government, we will never promote hatred in our communities. As long as we exist here, we will always denounce extortion and hatred that is based on nationality.”
In addition the mayor further said the municipality remained focused on improving basic service delivery to support economic activity and ensure business continuity.
The municipality said it remained committed to promoting social cohesion, economic development and reliable service delivery for all residents and business owners operating within its jurisdiction.
The meeting is expected to pave the way for future engagements between the municipality and the Ethiopian business community as both parties seek to strengthen cooperation and support local development initiatives.
Photographs: EMLM
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