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The CEO of the W&RSETA Tom Mkhwanazi reiterated the role
of the organisation in SMME development through its various
programmes. “It is important to us that we have invested funds
into this project, and it is exciting to see that the project has borne
fruit.” He commended the youngsters for having completed the
programmes successfully and remarked that the W&RSETA looks
forward to seeing them creating jobs that will impact on many
generations to come.

Mkhwanazi also encouraged informal traders to take advantage
of other support programmes offered by the W&RSETA in order to
grow their businesses which would in turn contribute to the growth
of the country’s economy. “We all have a huge responsibility
towards building this country positively. We wish you well in your
Tom Mkhwanazi speaking about the W&RSETA’s SMME
development programmes. businesses so that you can employ more people. Together we can
build the nation,” said Mkhwanazi.
Success stories

From unemployed to fuel stations owner
Lindiwe Xulu completed her New Venture Creation learnership with an informal liquor trader.
She learned how to run a business and is now preparing to open two fuel stations in Nongoma
and Richmond. “Thank you to the W&RSETA for the opportunity. I would not have made it
without the support and mentorship from MDTI.

Poultry farmer in the making
“I was unemployed and doing nothing. Enrolling for this programme assisted me in terms of my vision
to start a business. I managed to save R5000 from my stipend and started a poultry farming business.
Managing the business was hard at the beginning, but I managed to sustain it. It is possible for everyone
here to succeed.
I am grateful for this opportunity. I now have an income because of this programme” - Mandisa Gumede

Addressing the informal traders, Deputy Director-General from
DEDTEA recommitted the department’s unwavering support to
assist informal traders in growing through various programmes
for export, tourism, access to markets, training, mentorship and
funding programmes

Deputy Director-General at Department of Economic
Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Sihle
Mkhize.

Representatives from retailer associations
receiving certificates.

Project successes

o First-ever learnership programme
implemented by informal traders
o 92% success rate
o 70 informal traders registered companies as
legal businesses
o Training provider created 11 permanent jobs
Representatives from UMsunduzi and UMshwathi
Municipalities giving a message of support.

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W&RSETA | October 2021