MEC Venus Blennies
Nozwakazi Stadium – De Aar
By Staff Reporter
The Premier of Northern Cape Dr. Zamani Saul, together with the MEC responsible for Youth, Women, Persons living with disabilities, Communication, Venus Blennies and e-Government continued with the handover of YWD funding and equipment to successful beneficiaries of the fund in Pixley Ka Seme district. About 422 applications were received for funding. About 365 applications were approved with 222 being women.
This much needed financial support is surely going to propel the youth businesses to new heights and address the unemployment as the enterprises will in turn employ others. The intervention is directed at ensuring that youth enterprises become viable and sustainable and be able to compete in the ever-challenging business environment.
Delivering the message of support Abraham Vosloo, MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism said,” today’s event is a breakthrough for young people in the district. This handover of funding and equipment is in line with our provincial growth strategy with specific focus to women, youth and people with disabilities.”
MEC Blennies called the community to support small businesses and further made a clarion call to small businesses to work together and grow the provincial economy. “Let’s also celebrate not only the funds and equipment you are receiving here today but also your resilience in forging ahead despite challenges you are facing as small businesses.”
Premier Saul has appealed to grant recipients to use the funds and equipment wisely. He also called on beneficiaries to support each other and not be jealous of their progress. According to the premier this will grow the economy and create more work opportunities.
Said Premier Saul,“The funds overarching goals include fostering economic transformation, promoting entrepreneurship, and driving job creation which all are crucial elements of growth and development.”
The Premier further emphasized that it is the provincial government’s determination to enhance and support small businesses.
One of the beneficiaries Babalwa Dywili (35) from Nonzwakazi Ward 3 appreciated the support. She specializes in buying chicken and selling them to locals. Said Dywili, “the money is a good start for me, I’m going to increase my services and make sure that my business reaches greater heights.”
