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Social cohesion at top of the agenda at

entrepreneurship colloquium

ognisant of the important role of entrepreneurship in uplifting vulnerable communities, the Small Business Development Institute
C(SBDI) convened its sixth National Social Entrepreneurship Development Colloquium virtually on 2 and 3 December 2021 in
Johannesburg.

The colloquium, aimed at producing tangible actions was aptly themed: “Crafting a concise National Social Development and Social
Entrepreneurship Development Master Plan as a foundation from which future generations would bequeath institutionalised prosperity.”

The colloquium provided a platform for stakeholders in the public and private sector to engage on their role in contributing towards a
thriving and sustainable SMME sector in rural and township areas.

being a consultative government and being able to work together
to do more with all sectors of our society”. The Minister also
commended the W&RSETA for its work in SMME development.

Key speakers included the Deputy Minister of Justice and
Correctional Services and Chairperson of the Congress of
Traditional Leaders of South Africa, Nkosi Patekile Holomisa;
Gauteng Economic Development MEC Parks Tau; Chairperson of
the Industrial Development Corporation, Busisiwe Mabuza; and
Acting Director General of Department of Social Development,
Xolani Qubeka opening Linton Mchunu.
the colloquium

The SBDI Chairman, Xolani Qubeka opened the colloquium
expressing that their organisation was committed to playing a
pivotal role in fostering the growth and development of SMMEs
and co-operatives as major drivers for economic growth and
job creation. Qubeka added that the SBDI aimed to influence
participation and engagement between SMMEs and key role
players through the colloquium.
“The colloquium seeks to build a more robust and sustainable
policy environment that places SMMEs at the centre of economic CEO’s roundtable
growth and development in our country”, said Qubeka. discussion CEO’s
roundtable discussion

The W&RSETA CEO, Tom Mkhwanazi was part of the CEO’s
roundtable panel to discuss challenges relating to financing small
scale farmers as well as SMME and social enterprise development
programmes in rural and township economy post the July looting.
The CEOs shared challenges their organisations were confronted
Minister Lindiwe Zulu with in supporting SMMEs and their roles in developing these
delivered the keynote entities.
address at the opening
of the colloquium

In her keynote address Minister of Social Development, Lindiwe
Zulu highlighted that in the private and civil society sector have a
keen interest on matters that affect the welfare and well-being of
the nation. “As government, we are pleased that we have strategic
partners in our society, and this is in line with our approach of
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W&RSETA | January 2021