Black Industrial Summit: training future pioneers

Enterprise iLembe CEO Nathi Nkomzwayo said he believed that agricultural processing was the future for many farmers in the Ilembe region.

Speaking at the Black Industrial Summit held by Enterprise iLembe at the iBandla Hotel last Friday, Nkomzwayo said Enterprise iLembe would help local farmers to take the steps required to begin processing their crops.

“We already have primary farmers in the region and most of them are struggling to find a market, with some vegetables spoiling before a buyer is found.

“So if they can get into processing their vegetables this will make a huge difference. We will work with them in terms of finding a suitable market,” said Nkomzwayo.

At the summit entrepreneurs were informed of the business and funding opportunities available to them.

It was said that poor business plans, lack of financial administration and tax compliance were some of the many reasons that led to a small business’ funding application being declined.

There were about 50 entrepreneurs who came to learn and seek advice from the speakers, who came from a number of government departments.

Trade and Industry Department representative Sihle Dlamini said they were looking for black industrialists to fund who have experience in the field.

“You must know what you are doing, we need that skill and passion and of course the experience. Those are the people who deserve the funding. We say come with your skills and we will nurture them,” said Dlamini.

He said it was also important that businesses that received funding would be able to create job opportunities for others.