The focus for the newly-launched Black Industrialists Programme is mainly geared towards manufacturing, industrialisation and inclusive economic growth. This was the primary message communicated by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr Rob Davies, Deputy Minister Mzwandile Masina and the Chief Executive Officer of the National Empowerment Fund, Ms Philisiwe Mthethwa during the launch of the Black Industrialists Policy in Pretoria today.
The policy and the programme are a key part of government’s broad industrialisation initiatives to expand the industrial base and participation of Black Industrialists in the manufacturing activities and the economy.
Addressing stakeholders at the launch, Minister Davies said the new programme was designed to create a single forum to provide black industrialists with financial aid, non-financial support, market access and advice for those who are already trading in the manufacturing space.
“The policy document and guidelines say you must have a high level of potential in the manufacturing sector and this will help us identify the best and take them forward in the manufacturing space. We are not only looking for manufacturers but champions in the industry who are willing to take risks and transform the economy,” said Davies.
Davies acknowledged that the programme was not designed to solve all problems or entertain passive shareholders, but it is a step towards addressing and empowering black people in all sectors specifically in manufacturing sector.
“Manufacturing is one of the least empowered sectors, and that is why we came up with Black Industrialists Policy to increase a number of black led management and involvement in order for them to control the value chains and encourage others to come forward,” added Davies.
Davies added that becoming a manufacturer was not an easy journey , but warned that if the country does not industrialise it will remain in a worst situation in the global economy.
Deputy Masina said the programme was not only about giving out state money, but making sure that there were market opportunities for Black Industrialists.
“We are looking at the entire value-chain to ensure that the programme is successful and well-administered. We may not be able to help all businesses out there, but we will be able to contribute to the economy through this programme,” said Masina.
He also said businesses must be mindful when departments are running government programmes as there are shortcomings and challenges that might take time to be resolved and addressed. He said the Black Industrialists Programme must be supported and given time before people start complaining as labelling it as a failure.
The Black Industrialists Scheme offers a cost sharing grant ranging from 30% to 50% to approved entities to a maximum of R50 million. The quantum of the grant will depend on the level of black ownership and management control, the economic benefit of the project and the project value.
Potential Black Industrialists can visit www.thedti.gov.za to access the policy and application process.
Enquiries:
Sidwell Medupe
Tel: 012 394 1650
Cell: 079 492 1774
E-mail: MSMedupe@thedti.gov.za
