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. – SAnews.gov.za
