The Gauteng Department of e-Government hosted a roadshow at the Ratanda New Hall on October 21.

The event aimed to empower persons with disabilities and military veterans by improving their access to economic opportunities and digital services.

According to Sizwe Sibisi from the Tshwane e-Government supply chain, the department plays a central role in driving inclusive policies that promote gender equality, female empowerment, youth development and the rights of persons with disabilities, older persons and military veterans.

“The Gauteng Department of e-Government co-ordinates and drives the implementation of policies that support inclusion and empowerment,” said Sibisi.

“Our focus includes increasing the employment rate of persons with disabilities and ensuring digital inclusion across Gauteng.

“The Ratanda roadshow formed part of a broader provincial campaign to promote inclusive participation in Gauteng’s growing digital and economic landscape. The initiative focused on helping qualifying individuals register on the Central Supplier Database (CSD), a key requirement for opportunities and empowerment programmes,” added Sibisi.

By offering on-site support, the department worked to eliminate administrative and digital barriers that often prevent persons with disabilities and military veterans from participating in the government supply chain and establishing sustainable businesses.

Attendees benefited from on-site support with the CSD registration, information sessions on government supply chain and procurement processes, guidance on accessing available economic and development opportunities and direct engagement with departmental officials for clarity and assistance.

Sonto Mokoena, a resident with a disability, said, “This programme gave us hope because many of us didn’t know how to register on the CSD or where to start with government tenders. The officials were patient and helped us step by step. Now, I feel ready to take part in business opportunities,” said Mokoena.

This roadshow is one of several being rolled out across all five regions of Gauteng to champion equity, drive digital inclusion and open doors for marginalised groups to participate fully in the province’s economic growth and transformation.