By Levy Masiteng
The Gauteng government has unveiled a programme aimed at revolutionising township-based automotive businesses in Krugersdorp.
The Merchant Development Programme, which was launched by roads and transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela will help drive economic growth and empower local entrepreneurs.
It is a collaborative effort between g-FleeT Management, the Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) and WesBank.
“This is not just another project, it is a bold and deliberate step toward realising the Gauteng provincial government’s commitment to inclusive economic growth,” Diale-Tlabela said on Friday.
The programme will provide skills development, training, onboarding, accreditation and assistance for future integration into the government’s fleet maintenance supply chain.
The department said the programme was already yielding promising results, with township spending by the Fleet Maintenance Unit of g-FleeT Management increasing from 7% to 10% as of October 2024.
The department plans to reach 30% by the end of the year.
Diale-Tlabela highlighted the significance of investing in township businesses, saying: “Each rand invested in township merchants contributes directly to job creation and community development; this programme is about more than numbers, it is about impact, dignity and participation.”
AIDC CEO Andile Africa expressed pride in playing a key role in the initiative, providing infrastructure, compliance support, training and a supportive ecosystem for the merchants.
“The Merchant Development Programme is more than just repairing vehicles, it’s about repairing the structural inequalities of the past, building sustainable businesses and creating real opportunities for people in our communities,” he said.
WesBank national contract manager for fleet services, Marcellus Mbanda said that since 2021, the amount spent towards repairs by township merchants has risen to R37 million in terms of allocation of work.
Diale-Tlabela said this initiative was part of Gauteng’s efforts to promote economic growth and development in townships, and was in line with premier Panyaza Lesufi’s proclamation that 60% of the provincial budget must be spent within townships.
“This initiative will guarantee that we successfully transition from intention to execution”, she said.
“In partnership with the private sector, we will continue to build an economy that values ambition and rewards ability regardless of one’s location.”
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