Co-operatives across Jozini Municipality are receiving the tools and support to grow their businesses.

Through the programme, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) is providing a wide range of practical tools and inputs.

This includes refrigeration and cooking equipment, garden fencing, irrigation materials, sewing machines, salon equipment, and day-old chicks with feed, all aimed at helping local enterprises increase production, access new markets, and create jobs.

Last Sunday, Minister for Cogta, Velenkosini Hlabisa, together with KZN Cogta MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi, handed over tools, equipment and other essential resources.

“This programme is squarely aligned with our department’s mandate to empower communities and grow local economies. By responding directly to what entrepreneurs and cooperatives need – whether fencing, irrigation, machinery or starter inputs – we enable real productivity gains and help businesses take the next step in their growth,” said Buthelezi.

Minister Hlabisa described the programme as ‘a lifeline for small businesses within the Jozini Municipality.’

“These interventions… will help entrepreneurs scale up, create decent jobs and build resilient community economies,” Hlabisa said.

Khululiwe Mfulela, a beneficiary who received eight chainsaws, said the assistance would have a meaningful impact on their operations.

“The investment made by the department into our businesses will produce positive results. We will now be able to expand our operations as small businesses and cooperatives,” she said.

Jozini Mayor Scelo Myeni urged beneficiaries to safeguard the tools, and use them effectively to expand their footprint.