The Summit was organised under the theme: ‘Job creation – the promotion of locally manufactured goods and services’. It was convened to discuss the challenges facing our economy, particularly the erosion of our manufacturing capacity and the job losses resulting from this.
Addressing delegates at the conference, the Gauteng MEC for Economic Development, Nkosiphedule Kolisile said government has an indispensible role to play in supporting the manufacturing sector.
He added that the sector’s capacity to create jobs on a massive scale is unmatched by any other industry in the country.
“The manufacturing sector is a locus for stimulating economic growth, creating decent jobs and enhancing the economic opportunities available to the broader South African population” said Kolisile.
COSATU Provincial Secretary, Dumisani Dakile, also expressed support for local manufacturing and the ‘buy local’ campaign.
“Government support for the manufacturing sector is important as this sector employs thousands of workers in the province. There can be no plan aimed at overcoming the triple challenge of unemployment, poverty and inequality that excludes the manufacturing sector” said Dakile.
Proudly South African CEO Leslie Sedibe called on the Gauteng Provincial Government to strengthen the localisation agenda.
“If we can make local procurement a reality in Gauteng, then the rest of the country will soon follow. Localisation represents the future” he said.
Coenraad Bezuidenhout, leader of the Manufacturing Circle commended government’s efforts and leadership in support of the manufacturing sector. He added that the private sector is still lagging behind in terms of local procurement.
The summit concluded with a showcase and exhibition of locally produced products.
For more details and media enquiries please contact:
Ms Phindile Kunene
Cell: 082 494 2409
Tel: 011 085 2538
E-mail: Phindile.Kunene@gauteng.gov.za
