Entrepreneurship

In an article written by Thapelo Sakoana, the importance of women and young people starting their own businesses is addressed. Paul Mashatile, Gauteng MEC for Finance and Economic Development, says that opportunities are numerous in Soweto and that people should not worry about jobs but create them. He states that these opportunities make it easier to overcome poverty and unemployment. Gauteng Enterprise Propeller(GEP) will be assisting individuals interested in starting their own business. GEP grants “financial and non-financial support t to small, medium, and micro enterprises.” This agency will also be assisting with drafting business plans. GEP aids in access loans, bank guarantees and linking finance. They also train people on entrepreneurship. Mahatile noted a couple of ventures that could be pursued. He pointed out that tourism and increased in Soweto. He says that tourists “eat, drink, and sleep” and provisions in the township have to be made. He mentions businesses such as transportation and Bed and Breakfasts. Mashatile says that 30 percent of government funds would be reserved for companies owned by women and youth. Nompumelelo Due, a resident, is fully supporting MEC’s recommendations. She says “…we all want to get out of poverty.”

Personally, I feel a mix between excitement and relief that women and young people are being targeted to start their own business. Very rarely are these two groups of people given such an open opportunity to try and help themselves in a positive and legal manner. My feelings of relief come from the fact that young people are included which gives them a chance to do something that will keep them away from trouble. Majority of times, men are in the forefront of business ideas and management. I feel that this constant situation eliminates the chance of the dependent groups, women and young people, the chance to really achieve any type of goals independent oriented.

http://allafrica.com/stories/200708230647.html