By Rodger Mandhlazi
The Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development and Tourism has injected R11 million into struggling Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) to help revive Sabie’s ailing economy — with a strong focus on the mining and forestry sectors.
Announcing the allocation at an SMME and Cooperative seminar and exhibition held on Monday, 19 May, at Sabie Town Hall, MEC Makhosazane Masilela emphasized the department’s commitment to empowering local businesses as part of the province’s economic transformation agenda.
“This funding will specifically target rejuvenating mining and forestry activities in this municipality. We will be allocating R1.5 million to Thalita, the local agency, to support this effort,” said Masilela.
She added that the department is not working in isolation but is collaborating with financial partners like the Mpumalanga Economic Growth Agency (MEGA) to ensure meaningful support reaches entrepreneurs.
“We’ve got R11 million to support SMMEs, and we are working with various stakeholders to make that happen,” she said.
Masilela reaffirmed the department’s belief that SMME development is a key driver of economic transformation and an important pillar in reducing unemployment and poverty in the province.
“Our crucial function is to support SMMEs and cooperatives by empowering and nurturing them,” she said. “We hold a firm view that SMME development remains the most appropriate vehicle to drive the economic transformation agenda.”
The seminar was well received by attendees, including aspiring entrepreneurs and cooperative leaders.
“The session was very informative. It gave us insight into future investors and production opportunities,” said Ntombi Mokoena, one of the participants.
The department continues to host similar seminars across the province, with Masilela recently visiting Thulamahashe Community Hall in Bushbuckridge Local Municipality as part of ongoing efforts to uplift SMMEs in various regions.
With this latest funding injection, the Department of Economic Development and Tourism is taking a decisive step toward revitalizing Sabie’s economy and creating a more supportive environment for small businesses to thrive and lead local development.
