Sixty local entrepreneurs were honoured during the Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine’s (DCM) annual Enterprise Supplier Development (ESD) programme. The certificate presentation ceremony was held at the Thaba Moshate Hotel Casino and Convention Resort in Burgersfort on October 7.

This annual business training programme was initiated to upskill and empower local small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs).

The training that started on November 28, 2024, was facilitated by the Limpopo Economic Development Agency (LEDA). Among those who attended the event were DCM senior management, LEDA representatives, members of the Women in Mining organisation and National Union of Mineworkers members.

According to DCM, the programme offered local SMMEs business development training that equipped them with the skills and knowledge needed to run their businesses more successfully and confidently. Among the modules taught were costing and pricing, basic accounting practices, marketing, tendering, and customer care skills, and financial management.

Humphrey Maphutha, a LEDA representative, applauded the agency’s training and development unit staff, saying they did an excellent job in training the SMMEs. He urged the entrepreneurs not to rest on their laurels, but to continue creating job opportunities for themselves and for their communities.

“We are grateful for partners such as DCM. Our unemployment rate is at a high of 33.2%,” said Maphutha. “To boost our economy, we need to invest in education and entrepreneurship. We thank companies such as DCM for these investments.”

He added that incubation programmes for the 60 SMMEs will be implemented. “We will compile a database of participants to share with our contacts to assist with securing job and procurement opportunities for them. We can only succeed if we work together as a team.”

Remember Mmbengwa, DCM’s Sustainable Development Manager, said that many initially underestimated the initiative. “It is now showing great success. I can see a promising future ahead if we work together on the upcoming programmes.”

To the SMMEs, Mmbengwa said both the DCM and LEDA will do their best to ensure their success.

“What is required from you is professionalism, good character and good business ethics. We still need much hard work and dedication from you,” he said.

“No matter the support you get from either DCM or LEDA, success in business won’t come easily.”

He added: “DCM will travel this tough and challenging journey with you to help you succeed.” He urged the entrepreneurs not to be selective, saying that making money requires participation in both the informal and formal economy of the country.

“While you are setting up your formal business, don’t forget to engage with the informal business. There are opportunities galore out there.”

Representing the SMMEs was Johannes Setladi. He thanked DCM for investing in the ESD programme. “I was a bit clueless on business matters, but through this programme we have acquired lots of business skills. They will be of good value. We applaud the mine for this initiative, which is the first step towards our success.”

All 60 entrepreneurs received starter packs to help get them started on their business journey. Essential tools they received included laptops, printers and stationery.