A BUSINESS indaba roadshow spearheaded by KZN development agency Ithala will this month help develop and revitalise township enterprises, co-operatives and SMMEs across Zululand.
Workshops will incorporate the agency’s three flagship programmes – Inkunz’isematholeni Youth in Business competition, Siyasebenza SMME and Imbokodo Iyazenzela Women in Business workshops.
The annual My Business Indaba comprises of eight community workshops at various venues, including the Tembe Traditional Hall in Manguzi from 4 to 5 July.
Several workshops have already taken place in Empangeni and Richards Bay, Umuziwabantu and Harding, and Jozini.
‘Our three flagship programmes will have a profound impact on job creation against the backdrop of a dismal economy and will support government’s mandate to advance radical economic transformation,’ said Ithala Group Chief Executive, Yvonne Zwane.
‘As pioneers of banking the unbanked, we have an obligation to enrich the quality of life of historically marginalised communities.
‘We understand the plight of these communities and are committed to making a developmental impact where it matters most.’
The organisation encouraged participation in all sectors of the economy, especially the historically disadvantaged members of society, through employment creation, skills transfer and training.
In the past three years, Ithala has funded 684 businesses.
The organisation disbursed R875-million, creating 7 917 jobs.
Women owned enterprises comprise 28% of Ithala’s loan book, while youth businesses make up 39%.
My Business Indaba 2017 will be rolled out over two days, with weekly sessions offering inspirational talks, advice, direction and opportunities for youth and women – those who are currently in business and those individuals who aspire to get into business.
For more information, call 031 9078656 or email to smazibuko@ithala.co.za
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