Business chamber still plays a role in Benoni
The Benoni Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BCCI) may not have designated premises anymore, but they still aim to fulfill their goal to be the voice of businesses.
Muhammad Essop, who’s the president of the organisation, said that not having designated premises hasn’t stopped the organisation from having their continuous meetings with the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM), SAPS, EMPD and several other groups.
“This year we’ll continue doing what we’ve been doing over the past few years,” Essop said.
The organisation doesn’t network or liaise for businesses, but instead, provides a platform for business owners to meet – and liaise by themselves for themselves.
The board consist of several members including: Essop, Champ Gopal (vice-president), Raymond Phala (vice-president), Navin Bhana (treasurer), Norman Nmsini (secretary) and Michael Shneier (executive member).
The organisation’s 2017 plans consist of:
• More seminars where guest speakers can empower businessmen.
• Discuss ways of improving security in the Benoni CBD.
• Enhance business attendance at crime meetings with SAPS and EMPD.
“Businessmen should attend these meetings, so that SAPS and EMPD are up-to-date with crime-related issues the businesses face,” Essop said.
Over the last three to four years, Essop said they’ve engaged in several community issues, including:
• Placing road markings in the Benoni CBD.
• Holding safety and security meetings.
• Providing certificates of origins for businesses which export goods.
• Providing markings for vendors on Voortrekker Street.
• Resurfacing potholes on roads, for better driving,
Business owners who need more information about the BCCI, may contact the following people:
• Bhana: 083 229 7465 or 011 422 2314
• Gopal: 082 447 5726 or 011 421 2303
• Essop: 084 092 7877 or 011 845 4161
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