On Thursday, 30 March, the Enterprise and Supplier Development open day was held at Finetown Multipurpose Centre to encourage and grow the township economy in the area, the event was attended by residents, City of Joburg, NYDA and Gauteng Department of Economic Development.
By Lebohang Ndashe – Intern
Enterprise and Supplier Development in South Africa is aimed at making sure that companies, as far as possible, procure their goods and services from black-owned and managed businesses. Supplier Development ensures that companies procure the goods while Enterprise Development entrepreneurs to grow their businesses so that they can play a meaningful role in the economy.
The event had its own sets of challenges from loadshedding and political segregation to low youth attendance amongst others. The speakers were also not audible leaving attendees frustrated. Many local business owners bemoaned unethical practices and corruption from the government especially when it comes to compliance and funding processes.
A chaotic scene broke out when Ward 7 members had to select representatives, there were divisions with attendees grouping each other according to their respective areas many left as they felt that the selection process was unfair.
James Shabangu from Siyanqoba Simunye Constructions and Projects said: “I run a construction company with my partner and we’re slowly migrating to producing products for business on a primary sector level, however, we are struggling to get government involved by including us in their database for local projects.”
Daniel Lentsho from Logishi Chisanyama said: “Government doesn’t make enough effort for us to compete in the market, especially, when it comes commercialisation compliance, hence most of us don’t even have interest in government initiatives.”
Tsakane Mkhize, a footwear designer from Majazana said: “Personally, I’m facing a challenge with illegal foreign nationals who are taking over the market without any legalities.”
The Economic and Supplier Development (ESD) open day will make its way to the Lenasia South Civic Centre on 6 April to provide an opportunity to Lenasia South entrepreneurs to network and gain access to markets.
