TRANSNET Port Terminals (TPT) has invested R1.5-million in 15 small businesses and cooperatives in the Northern KZN after identifying a gap between emerging enterprises and corporates, especially in the rural areas.
With the assistance of Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), TPT then identified businesses that would benefit from a comprehensive computer training programme combined with online accounting modules.
The aim of the basket of Enterprise Development Initiatives targeted at empowering black – owned businesses is to increase TPT’s supply chain in pursuit of the market demand strategy (MDS).
TPT General Manager: Procurement Ntombeziningi Shezi believes ‘rural development across varying sectors will not only strengthen local economies for continued growth but, will encourage youth-owned businesses for the livelihood of communities’.
Approximately 73% of the funded businesses and cooperatives are youth owned in the fields of fencing, grass cutting, fresh produce, household cleaning chemical manufacturers and road construction.
These are businesses operating in kwaMbonambi, Mtubatuba, Hluhluwe, Obanjeni, Mkuze, Jozini and Pongolo areas.
Of the total number, 67% are wholly owned by women.
Upon completion of training in various areas of business including business planning, business marketing, tendering, basic computer skills, book keeping and invoicing – the beneficiaries will receive computers, software, printers, office equipment and mentorship as a form of support.
According to SEDA Business Advisor Mbuyiselo Ngobese, ‘Small businesses are fundamental for job creation. Our role of providing business development and support services for these beneficiaries has ensured our partnership with Transnet Port Terminals and the Umkhanyakude District Municipality’”.
Owner of Melabantu Investments and the youngest of the beneficiaries Mmeli Mdletshe (25) said, ‘I have to thank Transnet Port Terminals for being a big company but affording to come down to grassroots levels.
‘We are being taught skills that can take a company from 0 – 100% ‘.
Mdletshe runs a general supplies business that has subsidiaries that conduct renovations and offer plumbing services.
He added that often, big companies are tempted to remain in the cities where development is visible when compared to areas on the outskirts of small towns.
This is one of several projects TPT is currently pursuing across varying communities.
TPT Supplier Development Manager Zine Icheku encouraged owners of small businesses to ‘communicate more with local chambers of commerce and industry, register their details on municipality databases to benefit from the opportunities big business offers from time to time, for their continued growth’.
