Small, medium and micro enterprises (SMME) are often considered to be the backbone of the economy and a source of income for a large portion of the population. Therefore, it’s integral to stoke the flame of local SMMEs, especially by government.

Earlier in March, the Gauteng Department of Economic Development, the Mogale City Local Municipality and the Lepharo in Munsieville came together to shine a light on SMMEs in the area.

“Focused on ensuring a sustainable programme to enrich the SMMEs and cooperatives in Mogale City, the partnership between the three is actively working to develop and support these enterprises in and around Mogale City to stimulate economic growth,” noted Tonie Samkange, Project Relations Specialist at ThePRHouse.

“Since launching the Munsieville Incubation Hub last October, 21 SMMEs and co-operatives have been incubated into the programme, focusing on areas such as construction inputs, general construction, mining construction, alternative building materials, localisation and import replacement, road building and tar manufacturing, and many more.

This has been done to ensure each business owner is well placed to take advantage of the future potential of the Mogale City economy. All 21 had to meet the specifications of being 100% black owned, women owned and youth owned (EME and QSE).”

Success Raduba, Centre Coordinator said, “We’re pleased to have seen the 21 SMMEs today making use of the R13 million facility that is strategically located to reignite the potential of the heart of the Munsieville community while providing access to skills and training that will quadruple the size of the community’s economic recovery prospects within three years.

“In our ongoing efforts to engage, equip and empower the greater Mogale City as we work with our partners, we at Lepharo remain committed to creating an industrial corridor for innovation, partnership and entrepreneurship as we work to enrol more SMMEs and cooperatives into the programme.”