On Friday, 19 July 2024, the Alfred Duma Local Municipality Youth Development office successfully hosted a business orientation program held at the Council Chamber, uMnambithi (Ladysmith).
The aim of this program was to orientate the youth maskilling, volunteers and inservice training students under the slogan, “Ngizozama kuze kwenzeke” (I will try until it happens). In his message of support, Mr Zwane from the Human Resources – Training Section, encouraged the youth to expand their mind thinking, apart from being employed try explore and learn more about starting businesses. Conduct research and consinder the environment your in, ideas, your target market and ensure that your business is registered accordingly.
Ms T Sithole from LED outlined the process of getting your business being registered and also mentioned that even informal traders are assisted with registering their business (permit).
Representative from SEDA explained that they assist formal businesses and cooperative with registrations and branding. Required documents include Identity Document, proof of address, four company names, a fee of R175.00, and R30.00 for printing the certificate, printing, tax clearance, and a bank account are also required. It also assists with various trainings, packaging, branding, and product testing. The Central Supplier Database registers small businesses and issues certificates.
National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) representative Ms T. Mavundla stated that, the agency assist youth between the age of 18 and 35 with new and existing businesses through business training courses. A 5 days of training is provided, along with a grant. Non-financial assistance includes business plans, all free of charge.
The youth was highly encouraged to start businesses that has market and that EDTEA can assist with registering with SARS, training and funding. With existing business we keep taps by conducting unannounced inspections, stated by Mr T Mntambo from EDTEA.
The municipality was hailed for hosting such program that aim to cultivate the minds of our young people. About 39 business from this municipality have benefited from edtea funding.