Youth-run small businesses must take advantage of a host of opportunities provided by government. This was the central message that the MEC for Economic Development in Gauteng, Nkosiphedule Kolisile conveyed to small businesses and cooperatives in Katlehong.
Kolisile also said small businesses and cooperatives are the bedrock of Gauteng's vision to inclusively grow its economy and create decent jobs.
“Small businesses must occupy their place in our economy and in the fight against unemployment and poverty” said Kolisile.
He further noted that, Ekurhuleni formed an integral part of Gauteng's drive to revive of labour absorptive sectors like manufacturing.
“Supporting manufacturing industries and factories in places like Ekurhuleni is vital if we are to overcome the crisis of unemployment in this country. Based on the recognition that Ekurhuleni is the manufacturing capital of Africa, the province has also embarked on youth targeted skills development projects in the sector” he said.
Kolisile detailed plans for the training of young artisans to play a key role in the manufacturing sector, especially furniture, metal fabrication, tooling and automotive industries.
In a bid to impart artisan skills on the youth, the department has embarked on a tooling training programme offered by four FETs around Gauteng, including Kempton Park, Kwa Thema and Tshwane. There are currently over 200 young people participating in this training.
The department is also leading programmes to train young people in jewellery manufacturing and design, furniture manufacturing and upholstery as well as incubating youth run cooperatives.
Kolisile also highlighted the role of the Gauteng Enterprise Propeller which provides financial and non-financial support to businesses across a range of sectors including construction, wholesale and retail, agriculture, ICT, automotive and manufacturing sectors.
Ekurhuleni MMC for Economic Development and City Planning Nikani Bennett briefed community members about the city's drive to improve revive township economies.
“We are in the process of developing a township regeneration strategy and envisage that many townships across the metro will benefit from the projects stemming from this strategy. Our approach towards township regeneration goes beyond creating cleaner and safer areas but will also ignite the massive economic potential in our townships” she said.
The event was also attended by Member of the Gauteng Legislature Nokuthula Sikhakhane and Member of Parliament Eric Nyekembe.
Enquiries:
Phindile Kunene
Gauteng Department of Economic Development
Tel: 011 085 2538
Cell: 082 494 2409
E-mail: Phindile.kunene@gauteng.gov.za
Follow us on twitter @GautengDED
Mikateko Mkhatshwa
Strategy & Media Liaison
Office of the Premier
Tel: 011 355 6212
Fax: 011 355 6245
E-mail: Mikateko.mkhatshwa@gauteng.gov.za
