9 May 2008

By Keotshepile wa Mogotsi

IN an effort to empower local entrepreneurs, the Gauteng MEC for finance and economic affairs, Paul Mashatile, held a two-day road show recently at Kagisanong Hall in Kagiso 1.

The road show was part of the Gauteng government's five-year programme to fight unemployment and poverty and, according to Mashatile, was aimed at empowering people with information about income-generating opportunities, tendering, small business support and training.

Scores of young and old entrepreneurs from Kagiso, who appeared excited to learn about the economic opportunities available to them, attended on the first day. They thronged the exhibition stalls, which showcased various opportunities.

In his keynote address, Mashatile urged people to start their own businesses rather than looking for employment at other companies. “To look for employment, it does not mean to go look for employment at firms; you must start your own businesses so that you can create jobs for other people.

“This road show brings information on economic opportunities. Some of you have businesses and others plan your own, and this road show will provide you with information on how to grow or start your business,” Mashatile said.

Information on economic opportunities formed the core of the two-day event. Dozens of officials from various government departments and agencies, including Gauteng

Economic Propeller (GEP), Umsobomvu Youth Fund and Gauteng Tourism, took part. They focused on teaching participants about starting up businesses and how to benefit from government services.

The provincial government vowed to help entrepreneurs to secure land, where they could start their own businesses – suitable land and lack of funds were some of the biggest challenges faced by people wanting to start their own businesses.

Mogale City mayoral committee member Barry Friedman also urged people to use institutions that had information they needed. “I challenge each and every one of you to visit institutions that are exhibiting here today and also to come to our enterprise offices here in town.”

Presentations were also made by representatives from the Umsobomvu Youth Fund, Gauteng Tourism, Gauteng Shared Services Centre, the Department of Labour and the Liquor Licensing Board, to mention a few.

Members of the public were also able to ask questions of the MEC. Mosa Nxumalo of Swanieville appealed to him for access to the internet. “Our pupils are struggling to access the internet because local schools lack the facilities. Please assist us.”

Representing disabled people, Shadrack Motswaledi said an organisation for disabled people had been set up in Swanieville, but it lacked funds. “We have established an organisation for disabled people and for about three years we have lacked funds.”

In response, Mashatile said that all schools would be given internet facilities and that Motswaledi should speak to councillors and the municipality about his organisation’s difficulties.