adminthe SMEs and Co-operative Development Minister Sithembiso Nyoni has said.
In an interview, Minister Nyoni said her ministry wanted to ensure people were aware of the Act so that they could use it for their benefit.
“We are waiting for printed copies of the Act so that we can start the campaign. We want to explain the contents and implications of the document to people because as it is now many SMEs are not even aware that there is such an Act and it’s our mandate to make sure they get to understand it for them to benefit,” she said.
Minister Nyoni said the Act was a landmark development for the ministry as it introduces important aspects meant to facilitate the development of small and medium businesses.
“As I have said before, the Act empowers the minister to ensure that 25 percent of Government tenders are awarded to SMEs for both goods and services.
“This will also help SMEs as it will protect their interests and rights as small businesses in order to promote their growth and development and it is our duty as a ministry to make sure that this is achieved,” Minister Nyoni said.
She said during the awareness programme they were going to find some of the challenges faced by small businesses and try to find ways to address them.
“The advisory council will help in identifying and researching into issues that affect SMEs development and advise the Minister accordingly.
“From there we will see what we can do to improve and promote the growth of SMEs since they contribute massively to the growth of the economy,” she said.
Online Reporter