Members of co-operatives in eThekwini are determined to claim their place in the City’s economy following their enthusiastic participation in the process to develop the Draft Co-operatives Development Strategy.
Two workshops were held last week in Hammersdale and Umlazi as part of an extensive consultation process with co-operatives to allow them to make their input in the development of the strategy that will assist in shaping the sector. Over 488 cooperatives attended the first two workshops.
Deputy Mayor and Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee Nomvuzo Shabalala applauded the co-operatives for showing interest in the development of the sector.
“This proves that co-operatives are willing to contribute to their development in order to move this sector forward and tackle all the challenges they are facing,” she said.
Shabalala said co-operatives have a huge potential of growing the City’s economy, tackle poverty and create employment. But in order to achieve their potential they need to be uplifted, which is the primary objective of the strategy.
“The draft strategy was initiated to improve and streamline the support offered to co-operatives, including assisting them with sourcing finance, offering business training and promoting their products,” she said.
Co-operatives raised a number of suggestions regarding their development, including exploration of new opportunities in other sectors of the economy and not only rely on government for survival.
Paul Mntambo, owner of Injongoyethu Multi-Purpose Co-operative said they are thankful to the Municipality for affording them a chance of making their input towards their own development.
Co-operatives in different parts of the City are urged to continue attending these workshops because their contribution can make a difference. The remaining workshops are as follows:
• 04 February 2015 Bester Hall, Inanda 09:00
• 05 February 2015 Amanzimtoti Civic Centre 09:00
• 06 February 2015 Waterloo Hall, Verulam 09:00
• 09 February 2015 ITRUMP Hall, Warwick Junction 09:00
• 11 February 2015 Pinetown Civic Centre 09:00
Copies of the draft strategy are obtainable from the SEDA Office in Johannes Nkosi Street and Sizakala Centres. All comments can be submitted at the Business Support, Tourism and Markets Unit, 11th floor, Dr Langalibalele Dube Street or SEDA office or emailed to Nonhle.Memela@durban.gov.za by 10 February 2015.
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