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Township economy is a valuable eco-system for the country’s economy as it can play a significant role in irradiating poverty and create the much needed jobs, supporting Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMME) is a positive move for the government.
Recent studies have estimated township economy to be valued R900 billion, it is believed that the market value could be more than that. This makes the township economic space valuable and worth investing in.
The Free State MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism, Ketso Makume together with the departmental entities and Development Financial Institutions (DFIs) will on Thursday 06 March 2025 embark on an interactive discussion with local businesses from Mangaung Metro Municipality.
This initiative seeks to assess the state of affairs within the SMMEs and provide necessary intervention, revive and restore the township economy.
MEC Makume will engage with the following business sectors: Tourism, automotive, salons, tuckshop owners, fashion designers and textile, bakery/culinary, agro processing and logistics. This will go a long way in resuscitating township businesses.
“The main objective of this intervention is not only to reignite enterprises but to respond to the triple challenges of poverty, inequality, and unemployment; to encourage SMMEs to start viable businesses and create jobs, “said MEC.
During the said session, the department, in collaboration with entities and DFIs, will assist SMMEs with necessary business skills, which include crafting of business plans as well as access to local and global markets.
The event will take place at the Destinate Car Wash and Grill from 9am.
