Human Rights Month celebration: "The right to trade" dialogue
The Minister of Small Business Development, Ms Stella Tembisa Ndabeni is scheduled to descend on the Free State Province leading a delegation of dignitaries for two strategic engagements that seek to ignite the spirit of entrepreneurship.
Minister Ndabeni will deliver the keynote address at the Lejweleputswa District Economic Transformation Strategic Interface and Right to Trade Dialogue schedule to take place on 26 March 2026 in Mangaung and Lejweleputswa, Free State Province.
Part 1 of the Free State engagements will see the Minister convening the Economic Transformation Strategic Interface which will provide a provide a platform for MSMES for engagement with government. This will further include the handover of essential tools and machinery to 165 informal traders as part of the Department’s Informal Micro Enterprises Development Programme (IMEDP).
Part 2 – The Minister will convene a powerful celebration of Human Rights Month, focusing on the often-overlooked Section 22 of the South African Constitution: the right to trade. The "Right to Trade" Dialogue will bring together stakeholders from government, private sector, and civil society to discuss the importance of economic inclusion and entrepreneurship in realizing this fundamental human right.
The discussion will feature key inspirational stories from business stalwarts who overcame challenges and government initiatives supporting the right to trade as well as panel discussions on breaking barriers and promoting youth entrepreneurship. This event will include MSME support desk for onsite assistance to address and interact with community engagement platforms to showcase MSME support and exhibitions.
The right to trade is a cornerstone of economic empowerment and dignity that aligns with national development priorities and the Medium-Term Development Plan Positions DSBD as a champion of economic inclusion
Members of the media are requested to cover and support these events and have an opportunity to broadcast and publish the significance of the events helping to amplify the message of economic empowerment and dignity for all South Africans.
Details are as follows:
Part 1
Venue: Iphateleng High School, Wesselsbron.
Time: 10h00 – 12h00
Part 2
Venue: President Hotel, Bloemfontein, Free State.
Time: 16h00 – 20h00
For more information, please contact:
Siphe Macanda – Head of Communications
E-mail: Media@dsbd.gov.za SMacanda@dsbd.gov.za
Mobile: 082 355 2399
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