04 Sep 2022

Creating a conducive environment for entrepreneurship begins with education on available assistance and resources,  says Member of Parliament for Mochudi East, Mr Mabuse Pule.

Speaking at the first Mochudi East Entrepreneurs Day in Mmathubudukwane last Thursday, Mr Pule said it was critical for entrepreneurs to know where they could go to seek knowledge on their financial operations and other aspects of business. 

He added that it was important to strengthen interventions towards the development of business acumen.

The Mochudi East MP also said infrastructure development was key in the creation of a conducive environment for entrepreneurship.

He said road networks, access to stable telecommunication networks and access to water rights were critical. He noted that access to water was a challenge to those in the agricultural sector, and that there were only 19 water rights awarded in Mochudi East.

He said interactions with entrepreneurs and stakeholders have revealed a gap in knowledge of enterprise and innovation. 

He also his constituents had a challenge of youth unemployment and requirements needed to start a business as well as access to finance.

On other issues, Mr Pule commended government for its decision to restrict the importation of some vegetables, saying the move was in line with the aspiration to make horticulture competitive and in the long-term foster agricultural independence.

He added that the #PushaBW initiative encouraged all to support local businesses. 

He said it went from individuals buying fruits and vegetables from local farmers to big retailers and chain supermarkets sourcing products from local businesses.” 

Minister of Entrepreneurship, Mr Karabo Gare implored the youth to source funds and knowledge from institutions such as CEDA and LEA.

He said economic inclusion could help increase productivity and cooperation within the business sector. 

Minister Gare also called on beneficiaries of government schemes to pay back the loans so that other applicants could benefit from the same initiatives.

For their part, some of the youth entrepreneurs decried lack of good work ethics by employees in government departments, saying they were sent from pillar to post when seeking assistance. 

They also said they did not get any feedback on why their business proposals were rejected and how they could improve  them. Ends