KOPANO MONAHENG
Thousands of people who live in Emfuleni Local Municipality continue to face the harsh reality of unemployment.
Every day, many people travel to and from Johannesburg in search of employment, while others remain hopeful that they will one day secure jobs outside their municipality because of the limited employment opportunities available in Emfuleni.
To help address this challenge, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure hosted an entrepreneurship and business development engagement in Vanderbijlpark, Vaal aimed at empowering local entrepreneurs, promoting small business development, and creating pathways to economic growth and job creation.
Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Sihle Zikalala, who is leading the national Contractor Development Roadshows alongside the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) attended the roadshow on June 26, held at Emerald Hotel.
“The roadshow are part of the concept of developing small contractors. There’s been an outcry about contractors being trained, but not given access to work because of site disruption and stoppages, where small contractors will be denied opportunities by big contractors who come with subcontractors from their own localities,” said Zikalala.
He said no small contractor should struggle to operate and helping create employment for the people of this country.
“We have heard, and you were all part of the first session, the first session is an opening, but the second session then comes to deal with issues of training and mentorship. These then take contractors through issues of compliance and everything that they need to prepare themselves,” adding that it also includes access to funding, as they have partnered with CIDB with small business development on the contractor fund.
Gauteng MEC for Infrastructure Development and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Jacob Mamabolo was also in attendance. Other dignitaries were from the city of Emfuleni.
Speaking to a packed hall, Zikalala urged aspiring entrepreneurs to start their own businesses while encouraging existing business owners to take advantage of opportunities to improve and grow their enterprises. He highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship in creating jobs and stimulating the local economy.
“So we are trying to provide all solutions to the small contractors so that we will see them emerging,” said Zikalala.
Those in Attendence left the event inspired and equipped with valuable information, with each person also receiving a goodie bag.
Outside the hall, several companies and government stakeholders set up exhibition stalls to provide entrepreneurs with guidance on business compliance, registration, funding opportunities, and other essential information needed to run successful businesses.
The overwhelming turnout demonstrated the urgent need for employment and economic opportunities in the Emfuleni area. It also showed that many residents are willing to embrace entrepreneurship if they are given the necessary support, knowledge, and resources.
The event formed part of government’s ongoing efforts to promote small business development, empower local entrepreneurs, and reduce unemployment in communities across South Africa.
