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A thriving SMME sector is vital to delivering on the country’s economic development objective

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Ms. Ndileka Mfunda, owner of Masbandi (Pty) Ltd, has been registered on the Coega Development Corporation SMME database since 2016.

Ndileka Mfunda
Coega SEZ APLI and Weidplas SMME contractors, Ms. Ndileka Mfunda, owner of Masbandi (Pty) Ltd

“I first entered the Steel Fabrication and Erection industry at a time where businesses were encouraged to transform and embrace black partnership through skills development and participation in the economic development of our country. Shortly after, I was hounded by a mentor and friend to register on the CDC SMME database, and I obliged. The CDC SMME Department has been very motivating and encouraging by making sure we always update our information for compliance purposes,” shares Ndileka.

Masbandi (Pty) Ltd is one of the SMMEs that worked on the construction of the Coega SEZ APLI Coega Fruit Terminal and Cold Storage. The SMME is located in Deal Party in the city of Gqeberha. The Coega Development Corporation’s (CDC) vision to champion socio-economic development through skills and SMME development remains central to its standing, as a preferred investment destination and infrastructure implementing agent of choice. “The CDC recognises that a thriving SMME sector is vital to delivering on the country’s economic development objectives.” explains Ms. Unathi Maholwana, CDC SMME Programme Manager. The socio-economic development objectives of the organisation are often met during the commissioning of infrastructure and related projects.

Access to economic opportunities remains one of the key aspects driving SMME development, and the CDC’s objective is to facilitate, promote and drive the inclusion of SMMEs in procurement opportunities. The SMME programme targets SMMEs that are at least 51% black owned, with a Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) grading of 1 to 7. The CDC SMME Development Programme, led by the SMME Development Unit, also comprises the training and mentorship of SMMEs on tendering for construction contracts, basic business concepts, applying health and safety standards, and business finance. “I am aware of the interventions offered for the development of SMMEs through participation in projects and I have been one of the beneficiaries of this initiative,” says Ms. Mfunda.

She shares that despite the intensive compliance requirements by the CDC, the delivery of the project attracted further opportunities to secure other work as well as industry recognition. “Continuous support from the SMME Unit is appreciated. Being a nominated SMME, you are exposed to other companies, and constant monitoring ensures that real development is implemented.”

The recently completed Weidplas Project benefitted from the work of Ilinge Lethu Bafazi, amongst other nominated contractors. The SMME, directed by Ms. Phumeza Kate, implemented the paving at the Weidplas site and also previously worked on the Coega SEZ multi-user facility.

“My experience with the CDC SMME Unit has been good – they listen and respect the advice of small contractors, and they address the challenges we face. The Unit is there for us professionally,” explains Ms. Kate. The CDC policy is to ensure 33% SMME involvement in all projects; this cuts across the different sectors where the CDC has a presence. The CDC also offers training and mentorship opportunities for emerging contractors and entrepreneurs.

“Our objective is to create an environment for the development and participation of SMMEs to ensure sustainability and empowerment through the CDC SMME Database,” says Ms. Maholwana. All mentorship and training programme participants are selected directly from the CDC SMME Database.

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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.