THE establishment of cooperatives to influence economic growth was put in the spotlight at the International Cooperatives celebrations and exhibitions in Pietermaritzburg.

THE establishment of cooperatives to influence economic growth was put in the spotlight at the International Cooperatives celebrations and exhibitions in Pietermaritzburg.

The event commemorates International Cooperatives Day tomorrow.

The KwaZulu-natal economic development and Tourism department has partnered with the national Trade and Industry Depart- ment to create awareness of the importance of influencing global recovery through cooperatives.

An exhibition featuring cooperatives from all the provinces is being held at the Oval cricket stadium. The public can buy all sorts of things at the many stands.

"We believe that this economic sector reflects the general spirit of ubuntu because it encourages people to share ideas, skills and resources when pursuing business ventures," said acting economic eevelopment and eourism MEC Ina Cronje.

She said the event would inspire and "assure people that despite the hard economic times, there is hope for the future".