South Africa: Free State Premier Sisi Ntombela has concluded a two-day Rural and Township Revival programme speared headed by Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Makalo Mohale.
The programme was held in Makeneng, QwaQwa, following yesterday’s massively successful leg in Tshiame.
The province has had quite a number of engagements regarding soaring unemployment numbers affecting our province, particularly the youth. During these many discussions, the issue of entrepreneurship and business support we raised identified as key economic growth drivers to repel the growing unemployment, and this is why the government continues to support small and medium enterprises across the province.
Premier Ntombela commended the people of Thabo Mofutsanyana, who, upon hearing of the imminent visit to their district, made time to come and have an open and honest engagement.
Mme Mateboho Mokoena, a crop farmer from Phuthaditjhaba and Mr Ntombela Ditjhaba, a local businessman, were amongst local entrepreneurs who were fortunate enough to have their business needs immediately met. Mme Mokoena received a JoJo Water Tank as well as a net; Mr Ditjhaba, on the other hand, will be receiving a state-of-the-art printer.
Many more entrepreneurs who sought business support had their applications processed for consideration.
“I once again applaud our people in QwaQwa for heeding the call to become a part of this all-important programme. The government remains committed to fulfilling the commitments we made to our people of a better life for all. Let me also extend my appreciation to business people from Thabo Mofutsanyana for displaying their businesses” Premier Sisi Ntombela.
“We want to encourage our people, young and old, to begin to stand up on their own two feet, use whatever skill or talent they have to build the desired future for themselves and their families. We are motivated by the forward-thinking attitude we’ve seen at this gathering. We must do away with this attitude of entitlement, wherein People want to reel without sowing anything. The government want to work with people who are solution driven with a desire to see lives changed for the better. Poverty and unemployment are not a government problem but societal problems which need all of us to join hands to countermand,” added the Premier.