IN CONVERSATION WITH Kavita Ramjee, Chief Human Resources Officer & Busi Raphekwane, Chief Empowerment Officer

Township-based small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are an important part of South Africa’s economic landscape, providing livelihoods, creating employment and supporting economic activity within communities. Yet, despite their potential, many township entrepreneurs continue to face barriers that make it difficult to grow their businesses beyond survival and into sustainable, competitive enterprises.
South Africa’s government has identified small businesses as an important driver of economic growth and employment, with the National Development Plan placing significant emphasis on the ability of small, medium and micro enterprises to create jobs and contribute to inclusive economic development. Government has also acknowledged that township businesses face persistent challenges, including access to finance, infrastructure, markets and business support.