Secunda – Mpumalanga Finance, Economic Development and Tourism MEC, Mr. Sikhumbuzo Eric
Kholwane has urged the private sector to support government’s efforts of strengthening SMMEs and cooperatives as they play a crucial role in economic growth of the Province.
Mr Kholwane said this when addressing the second summit of the South African National Apex Cooperatives in Secunda on Tuesday, 30 September 2014.
“We implore on the private sector to put SMMEs and co-operatives at the centre of the Provincial
economic trajectory given their ability to create the much needed jobs. We are committed to realise
radical transformation of the South African economy, hence we commit to deal with the triple challenges
of poverty, unemployment and inequality facing our government without failure”, said Kholwane.
He indicated that the amendment of the Co-operatives Act and the establishment of the Ministry of
Small Business Development by the ANC led government, is a clear commitment to bring about radical
economic transformation in the second phase of the transition which was declared at the ruling party‘s
53rd conference resolutions.
MEC Kholwane also indicated that the Mpumalanga government has allocated R12.3 million to support
SMMEs and co-operatives in the current financial year. Kholwane further cautioned against corrupt
practices in businesses dealings, as this is undermining service delivery and weakening the moral fibre
of the nation. He urged business people and all South Africans to refuse to pay any form of bribe to
anyone.
#END#
Issued by the Communication Directorate
Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development and Tourism
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