Editor –
We were known by our own brand, but our recent situations look like there is no hope for Estcourtonians. 1948 brought hope to our families, when production factors were in place: land; labour; capital; and entrepreneurship.
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The last three conservative years were the most challenging ones, where we witnessed the demonstration of the labour force showing their dissatisfaction concerning the procedures the company wanted to take.
They stand tall and accept the proposal of adjustment of salaries in order to keep the company in operation. These are the real local labourers we are proud of.
The unemployment rate is increasing without any hope of decreasing it to an acceptable standard. Almost 85% of labourers who were employed by this company are locals.
We are at risk because some of our local businesses will be affected; directly and indirectly. I can mention some: for example the taxi industry, retail stores, etc.
I am appealing to our local business forums and civic forums to look at the following points as their references:
1. Poor local economic growth rates.
2. Weak local living standards.
3. Numbers of locals who are unemployed.
4. Local poverty and inequality will remain too high.
5. Collapse of the local economic system.
The situation needs to be addressed, otherwise we will define ourselves as ”manure” in Africa. We are agents for change. The company can survive through local investors.
Let me remind you Estcourtonians that we experienced this kind of situation in the late 1990s, when the majority of our mothers and sisters lost their incomes.
Then the second blow occurred when the majority of our fathers and brothers lost their dignity through collapsing of the company. Poverty was written on the walls of households.
We witnessed it and some experienced it.
I quote: “The purpose of studying economics is not to acquire a set of ready-made answers to economic questions, but to learn how to avoid being deceived by economists” – Joan Robinson.
Let us not be deceived by situations, but rise above and rehabilitate these organisations.
ZF Mncube
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