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What Happened
The Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality’s Directorate of Economic Development and Agencies hosted a Youth Dialogue at Clements Kadalie Hall in Braelyn Extension, East London, aimed at promoting economic development and entrepreneurship among young people.
The event forms part of the municipality’s ongoing mandate to support, develop, and grow enterprises within its jurisdiction, while creating an environment that encourages business growth through various strategic interventions.
Official Response
During the dialogue, Siyasanga Phiwe Mkonwana from the Directorate of Economic Development and Agencies emphasized the importance of empowering youth in business.
“The Directorate seeks to promote economic development through different interventions and strategies that help Buffalo City communities thrive and grow the local economy,” Mkonwana said.
She also encouraged young people to start businesses early, noting that youth entrepreneurs bring fresh perspectives and can easily access free support and resources to build successful ventures.
Adding to that, Milton Halu from the BCMM Industry Critical Skills and Development Unit emphasized the unit’s role in facilitating training and skills opportunities.
“Our primary function is to drive skills development through programmes such as learnerships, internships, and other structured learning opportunities within Buffalo City,” Halu stated.
Community Impact
The Youth Dialogue attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including the Department of Employment and Labour, BCMM Enterprise Development Unit, NHBRC, BCM Youth Centre, Isiqalo Youth Fund from the Office of the Premier, NYDA, and ABSA Bank.
Their participation provided young attendees with valuable insight into available resources and support systems for entrepreneurs in the city.
For more information, residents are encouraged to contact 043 705 1004 / 2111 or visit the Department of Labour website at www.labour.gov.za.
