Pretoria – The Minister of Small Business
Development, Lindiwe Zulu, says South African youth must make the most of the
opportunities that democracy has made available to them.
“We
must challenge young people of today to seize opportunities created by our
democracy in order to create a better life for themselves and their fellow
compatriots,” she said.
Speaking
at the Youth Business Forum in Pretoria on Friday, Minister Zulu called on
those who are already in business to create business opportunities for others,
and also assist in the creation of employment opportunities.
“Young
people should ask themselves what they can do to improve the lives of other
people,” she said.
The
minister said government will keep supporting youth in establishing their own
businesses.
“Empowering
young people is not an option, but a national imperative. Consistent with
government’s commitment to place the economy and job creation at the centre
stage, the President established the Ministry of Small Business Development.
“We are
clear that through this intervention, we will be able to unlock economic
opportunities and achieve economic growth and sustainable employment,
particularly for women, youth and people with disabilities,” she said.
Through
the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), young people are being assisted
to establish their own businesses and other projects.
Government
will also start a “youth set-asides” in procurement to ensure that young
entrepreneurs have opportunities to grow and development their enterprises.
South
Africa celebrates Youth Month in June.
SOURCE – SAnews.gov.za
