![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/63/2019/05/22smme.jpg)
On May 23, the Department of Small Business Development invited all small and emerging business owners within the borders of Inkosi Langalibalele Local Municipality to hand over equipment to them.
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The department focuses on providing support to small business and co-operatives, with an emphasis on programmes to advance entrepreneurship among women, the youth, and people with disabilities to contribute to job creation and economic growth countrywide.
Mayor Jabulile Mbele said that unemployment in Inkosi Langalibalele is one of the most important challenges the municipality is currently facing; therefore, the development and growth of Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) can play an important role in turning this situation around.
The municipality believes that SMMEs can help to reduce poverty and also contribute to the economy of our town.
Mrs Dolwane from the Small Business Development National Office cited that the project aims to develop local solutions to unemployment by investigating options for youth development in the form of micro and small businesses and co-operatives.
It is working in conjunction with local municipalities. The department believes that SMMEs are essential for a competitive and efficient market, because their nimble approach to competition drives efficiency and productivity.
Mrs Mbele handed over stoves, fridges, gazebos, pots, etc, to the SMMEs that were present on the day.
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