With the aim of boosting economic growth and assisting entrepreneurs in creating jobs, three new local enterprises – two from Kimberley and one from Barkly West – have joined the Droogfontein Solar Power Enterprise Development Programme.
WITH the aim of boosting economic growth and assisting entrepreneurs in creating jobs, three new local enterprises – two from Kimberley and one from Barkly West – have joined the Droogfontein Solar Power Enterprise Development Programme.
The programme provides support to small businesses through funding, training, and skill development to empower local enterprises. Since its inception three years ago, it has helped small businesses create 34 jobs for local community members.
The economic development specialist at Droogfontein Solar Power, Yolanda Madyira, highlighted the determination and tenacity of the three selected enterprises.
“The three new enterprises stood out for their resilience, commitment to their respective industries, and consistent drive to innovate and grow, despite facing various challenges. Their determination and demonstrated track record, coupled with the targeted assistance from the programme, are likely to propel these enterprises toward long-term success and sustainability,” said Madyira.
One of these businesses is Felemach, a Kimberley-based enterprise specialising in electrical contracting and PV solar installation, owned by Fernando Sandt and Maxston Joseph.
Through the Enterprise Development Programme, Felemach received a vehicle to transport their team and equipment – an essential resource for growth in the construction sector. They are also receiving assistance to enhance their business systems and gain market access, helping to position the company as a sustainable SMME.
Future support will focus on securing their own premises and expanding their presence in the solar panel installation market, as well as obtaining necessary certifications to ensure continued growth.
Another business is Julia Botsang Gaosekwe Trading, a poultry farming enterprise in Barkly West owned by Tshireletso and Agobakwe Gaosekwe, which has been operational for five years.
The immediate goal for the owners is to relocate the operations and increase production, while their long-term objective is to increase the volume of poultry produced.
The third beneficiary is KM Wood Designz, a furniture manufacturing business in Kimberley, solely owned by Kutlo Moeketsane.
KM Wood Designz, which produces bespoke furniture and standard built-in cupboards, was founded three years ago. The company is working to build its production capacity and skills, with a long-term objective of expanding market presence and formalising supply contracts for mass-produced items.
Madyira emphasised that all programme beneficiaries must be from neighbouring towns, including Kimberley, Riverton, Ritchie, and Barkly West, to qualify for the programme.
“Each enterprise is assessed individually to provide tailored support that meets their specific needs, ensuring their sustainability and growth. Droogfontein Solar Power Enterprise Development’s strategy aims to enhance the sustainability of local enterprises by investing financial resources into the local area, nurturing growth, and creating jobs within these communities,” she concluded.
