The Mpumalanga Premier, Mr Mandla Ndlovu has applauded four young aspirant entrepreneurs for their powerful demonstration of commitment to seek government’s support on their coffin-making business.
The four walked for days over 300km from KwaMhlanga (Thembisile Hani Municipality) to Mbombela carrying a small coffin with Ndebele art designs to seek business and support from Premier Ndlovu. The Premier engaged them on Monday and further on Wednesday, (14 May 2025), accompanied by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT) as well as the Mpumalanga Economic Growth Agency (MEGA) to present opportunities available to assist them.
Mr. Ndlovu reiterated government's commitment to helping the youth in business with numerous opportunities. He cited the Premier’s Youth Development Fund (PYDF) as an example. Only one of them is eligible for the fund.
“At least one guy would have been eligible for the Premier’s Youth Development Fund, had he considered the PYDF. It is important to note that the information on government services is available in all our municipalities.
“I am incredibly impressed with their business idea, but regrettably, they did not have to endure such agony of walking for days to engage with their government. We have all these programmes throughout the province aimed at helping our people to take advantage of. I have linked them with DEDT and MEGA to formalise and navigate other regulatory requirements for their business,” said Premier Ndlovu.
The Premier has warned that it is not necessary to walk long distances in pursuit of government’s assistance, adding that people should first access information within their local municipalities. He explained that departments have regional offices to offer government services.
“I must commend these guys though for their outstanding display of good behaviour. They have showed remarkable respect by not destroying any public infrastructure to draw attention. Their action serves as a positive example to a harmonious and respectful environment for everyone.
“I trust that with the help they will receive in establishing their business, one day they will be successful, and they will become a good example of how they exhibited good behaviour to rich their dreams,” said Premier Ndlovu.
The group urged the Premier’s support for their business to be registered formally, marketing and markets for clients.
ENDS…
Issued by the Mpumalanga Provincial Government
Office of the Premier
Enquiries: Mr. George Mthethwa
Provincial Government Spokesperson
(013) 766 2242 or 083 302 2774
Email:GPMthethwa@mpg.gov.za