R2m boost for entrepreneurs in Umdoni Local Municipality
The programme has also emphasised inclusive economic empowerment, with 25 women and 19 young beneficiaries among those supported.
A municipal employment initiative valued at R2m empowered 40 businesses in the Umdoni area this month.
The initiative gave these local Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) and cooperatives a major boost towards growing their businesses and creating employment.
A handover ceremony for the equipment donation was held at the Umzinto Town Hall last Wednesday, with Umdoni Municipality officials, the mayor Mbali Cele-Luthuli, and KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), Reverend Musa Zondi.
The project, jointly funded by EDTEA and Umdoni Municipality, aims to strengthen local businesses’ operations, improve productivity and unlock growth opportunities.
The beneficiaries were selected from 104 applications. After assessments and site verification visits, 40 enterprises were approved for support.
The supported businesses operate across key sectors including agriculture, hospitality, audio-visual and entertainment, manufacturing and services, with equipment provided according to their individual business needs.
The programme has also emphasised inclusive economic empowerment, with 25 women and 19 young beneficiaries among those supported.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Cele-Luthuli said the equipment is not simply an asset; it is a tool that can help businesses grow and build sustainable livelihoods.
She thanked EDTEA for the partnership and for ensuring that Umdoni’s entrepreneurs receive the support they need.
Beneficiaries were encouraged to use the equipment responsibly, be compliant with relevant business practices, develop skills, and embrace technology and social media to grow their businesses and reach new markets.
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