Several small business owners across Buffalo City received a welcome boost recently when the metro handed over tools of the trade aimed at helping entrepreneurs grow their enterprises and create sustainable livelihoods.
The handover ceremony took place at the Billy Francis Community Hall last week, where beneficiaries from various sectors, including car washes, beauty salons and catering services, received equipment to support and expand their operations.
The initiative forms part of BCM’s ongoing efforts to promote economic empowerment, stimulate local economic development and encourage job creation within communities across the metro.
Speaking at the event, BCM portfolio head for local economic development, councillor Amanda Mnyute, said the municipality was committed to ensuring small businesses had access to the resources they needed to succeed.
“These tools are more than just equipment; they are an investment in your future,” Mnyute said.
“We urge all beneficiaries to take care of them, use them to strengthen and expand their businesses, and create opportunities for others.”
She encouraged entrepreneurs to make the most of the opportunity by using the equipment responsibly and focusing on building sustainable enterprises that would contribute to economic growth.”
“Economic empowerment begins with each of us taking responsibility for building sustainable enterprises that can contribute to job creation and community development,” she said.
Mnyute said small businesses played a critical role in strengthening the local economy and creating employment opportunities.
“Our goal is to ensure small businesses are equipped with the resources they need to succeed.
“When local businesses grow, they contribute to a stronger local economy and create employment opportunities that benefit entire communities,” she said.
The programme is targeted at entrepreneurs who often face challenges accessing equipment and resources needed to improve productivity and expand their businesses.
Municipal officials said supporting small enterprises remained a key priority as they continued to drive local economic development initiatives across Buffalo City.
Among the beneficiaries was Siphokazi Makawu, who expressed her gratitude after receiving her tools of trade.
“This is all emotional for me.
“I am grateful for what I have received, and I thank God for keeping me going even when things were difficult,” she said.
“This support gives me hope and motivation to continue growing my business and creating a better future for myself and my family,” Makawu said.
The thrilled beneficiaries said the equipment donations would help improve service delivery, increase their businesses’ productivity and enable them to compete more effectively in their respective industries.
