2009-07-08: Joburg hosts exhibition for informal traders
THE City of Johannesburg will be hosting an exhibition day for 400 informal traders on Saturday 11 July 2009 from 1.00pm to 5pm. It will take place at Wits University, in the Concourse Senate House.
Various government departments and business institutions including DTI, SEDA, Umsombovu, SARS, CIPRO, ABSA, FNB, Nedbank and some of the City's entities like the Fresh Produce Market, Joburg Water, Metro Trading Company and a critical department, the Johannesburg Metro Police have been invited to exhibit.
"The intention is to provide exhibitors with the opportunity to show informal traders what support is available in general for SMME's as well as market specific products", said Xolani Nxumalo Deputy Director SMME Development and Support from the City's Department of Economic Development.
He said, "This is the culmination of a six month Basic Business Skills training programme run by Wits University which is also a delivery partner for the Grow Your Business programme".
He added that on the 2 August 2009, a certification ceremony will be held in the Senate House for traders who had successfully completed the course.
"Business from across the spectrum have been invited to present marketing information on business development guiding notes, business plans, what is required to open an account, information on loans, potential markets and health and bylaw enforcement matters", said Nxumalo.
The City's DED has facilitated the training of 500 informal traders in the 2008/09 financial years at a cost of R1,905 million in basic business skills-Grow Your Business project and ABET training. Through its partnership with Wits, the City has trained 2500 informal traders since 2005.
"This training is due to the recognition that there are limitations with regards to business management knowledge. As part of its investment, development and support for informal traders into the first economy, opportunities are being created as part of the City's vision to transform itself into a globally competitive world-class city by the year 2030", says Councillor Oupa Monareng Member of the Mayoral Committee for Economic Development.
"Joburg, a City where community development, personal growth and social mobility are enhanced so that challenges of poverty, vulnerability, inequality and social exclusion are fundamentally addressed".
Issued by:
Virgil James
Spokesperson
City of Johannesburg
011 407 7226
082 467 9415
