Durban could become a gateway between Africa and the world, integrating logistics, manufacturing and trade into a high-value economic node.
“This would initiate socioeconomic development and address unemployment, poverty and inequality,” say Professor Henry Wissink of the School of Commerce at UKZN and Dr Rudi Kimmie, interim director at the Aerotropolis Institute Africa.
Writing in their personal capacities, they add that the Durban Aerotropolis Master Plan is making steady progress.
“The physical infrastructure exists, the airport is functional and the Special Economic Zone, the Dube Trade Port, has expanded, attracted tenants and established itself as a viable entity.”
However, there’s always a “but”.
“Measured against its own ambitions and global benchmarks such as Dubai International Airport or Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, the Durban Aerotropolis remains an emerging node rather than a flourishing hub.”
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