MEC Africa conducts Business Consultative Roadshows
MEC Darkey Africa of the Department of Economic Development and Tourism will held Business Consultative Budget Roadshows in all the four districts of the province.
The purpose of these roadshows was to give feedback on performance on Departmental programme and projects since the last Budget Speech. Also, for participants to give inputs on their evaluation of the departmental performance. Lastly, to contribute on this years budget speech.
According
to MEC Africa, the Department believes that to advance in economic growth
they need to network. Exchanging of ideas and challenges is important and
it has proved to be very effective, and it also contributes to the welfare
of the country. During this consultative meeting participants who have
the interest of socio-economic growth in their respective regions were invites.
The
targeted group were Unions, Municipalities and Tourism specialists to name a few,
in four districts of the province. Some National Departments were also targeted.
The first meeting was held in the Central District followed by the Bophirima
District while Bojanala and Southern Districts. The last year’s roadshows were
a significant and demonstrated that the province has a very highly diversified
population that is able to make informed decisions that are aligned with the
policies of government.
During
the consultative roadshows the Department noticed that most people who are in business
are men, while women, youth and the disabled are excluded. This, according to the MEC,
calls for both the disability desk and his Department to research what solutions could
be developed. There was also a concern on the fear expressed by SMMEs in the Province
regarding the high takeover rate of small businesses by the so-called foreigners
especially in the retail sector, (Tuck Shops). MEC Africa indicated that the Department will embark upon a snap survey to assess the situation.
When
concluding all the roadshows, MEC Africa challenged entrepreneurs
(big, medium, small, micro, emerging or aspiring) to make a meaningful contribution
towards the economy of the Province by continuously advising government on pertinent issues
