The Coega Development Corporation\u2019s SMME Development Project Co-Ordinator, Ms. Nazlie Allie, writes that in the pursuit of economic development, the empowerment of Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) stands as a cornerstone for fostering growth, innovation, and sustainability within communities. The Coega Development Corporation (Coega), through its dedicated SMME Development Programme, is emerging as a shining example of success in nurturing and uplifting budding entrepreneurs. With a focus on skills development, capacity building, and fostering business growth, the programme has yielded remarkable achievements that warrant recognition and applause, and is in line with Coega\u2019s vision as a catalyst for championing the socio-economic development.<\/p>\n
SMMEs play a crucial role in generating employment opportunities and enhancing livelihoods, particularly among marginalised groups such as the working poor, women, youth, and individuals living with disabilities. As the backbone of local economies, SMMEs drive innovation and economic growth, contributing to reduced income inequality and promoting social cohesion.<\/p>\n
The Coega SMME Development Programme has implemented various initiatives to support SMMEs, including the Construction Contracting Skills Programme, which has provided Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) Accredited Training to 26 individuals and delivered Non-Accredited Training to 124 participants, culminating in a total of 150 skilled individuals entering the construction industry. This investment in training not only enhances the capabilities of aspiring contractors but also contributes to the overall quality and professionalism of the construction sector.<\/p>\n
The programme’s emphasis on supporting SMMEs in successfully completing projects is evident in the statistics that 80% of SMMEs awarded contracts have effectively delivered on their work packages. This track record underscores the programme’s commitment to ensuring that SMMEs not only secure opportunities but also excel in executing projects, thereby enhancing their credibility, and fostering long-term sustainability.<\/p>\n
Furthermore, the programme has facilitated CIDB upgrades for 81 SMMEs, guiding and supporting these enterprises through the CIDB upgrading process, the programme has empowered them to access higher-value contracts, expand their business operations, and position themselves for growth and success within the construction industry.<\/p>\n
To illustrate the transformative impact of the Coega SMME Development Programme, we turn to the inspiring journey of Mantishe Construction, a recipient of the programme in 2009. Under the mentorship and training provided by Coega, Tando Mhlobiso, the owner and manager of Mantishe Construction, steered the company towards sustainability and growth. Over the span of 16 years, Mhlobiso expanded his business empire to establish five sister companies under the Mhlobiso Group umbrella, creating employment opportunities for 150 individuals.<\/p>\n
In a remarkable progression, Mhlobiso Concrete, a subsidiary of Mhlobiso Group, became an investor in Zone 5 of the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in 2022, thus contributing to the economic vibrancy of the region. By creating 15 permanent jobs and expressing intentions for future expansion, Mhlobiso Concrete exemplifies the transformative power of SMME development initiatives in driving economic progress and creating sustainable livelihoods.<\/p>\n