The Mayor of Fetakgomo Tubatse Local Municipality (FTLM), Cllr Eddie Maila, held a mayoral engagement session with small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) at the Municipal Chambers in Burgersfort on January 7.

Also present were the Speaker of Council, Cllr Makgalema Shoba, and the Whip of Council, Cllr Dorah Mpheti, reflecting the Council’s collective support for local enterprise development.

The session focused on encouraging the participation of women and people living with disabilities in business.

This initiative forms part of the municipality’s ongoing efforts to support local economic development.

It aimed to strengthen stakeholder relations, provide clear information, and improve access to municipal opportunities.

The meeting also encouraged direct engagement with political and administrative leadership.

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During the session, the Local Economic Development (LED) Department and the Supply Chain Management (SCM) Unit delivered presentations outlining the requirements and processes for SMMEs to access business opportunities within the municipality, including compliance, registration, and procurement-related matters.

Business owners were given an opportunity to engage directly with the municipal leadership on support, collaboration opportunities, and challenges affecting local enterprises.

Maila emphasised the key role played by SMMEs in driving economic growth, job creation and inclusive development within the FTLM.

“SMMEs, and particularly women-led businesses, are critical partners in building a resilient local economy. This engagement allows us to listen, learn and work together towards practical solutions that support business growth and sustainability,” said Maila.