Empowering SMMEs Through Green Economic Transition

The Green Enterprise Development Colloquium, hosted by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism in partnership with the Mpumalanga Green Cluster Agency (MGCA), aimed to accelerate opportunities for small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) within the green economy. This initiative aligns with the Just Transition Framework, which guides the shift toward a low-carbon economy while ensuring social and economic equity.

Held at the Gert Sibande District Municipality Chamber in Ermelo on March 25, the colloquium provided a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation.

MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Makhosazane Masilela, highlighted the crucial role of SMMEs in driving economic transformation in the province.

“SMMEs are the backbone of our economy and play a pivotal role in poverty alleviation, job creation, and sustainable growth. To support them, we established the Mpumalanga Green Cluster Agency to lead our development agenda in the green economy space,” said Masilela.

She further emphasized the availability of funding opportunities and the growth potential for SMMEs in infrastructure projects such as Special Economic Zones, the Mpumalanga Fresh Produce Market, regional technology parks, and large-scale utility developments driven by the private sector.

“We aim to strategically position SMMEs to fully benefit from economic opportunities arising from the Just Transition,” she added.

The Just Transition Framework outlines policy measures and coordinated actions by government and social partners to reduce the negative impacts of climate change while improving the livelihoods of vulnerable communities. It serves as a roadmap for achieving a fair and inclusive shift to a greener economy.

The colloquium featured interactive engagements, with several SMMEs showcasing and pitching their innovative green products and services.

MGCA’s acting CEO, Nkosinathi Nkonyane, emphasized the need to:

Identify priority sectors within the green economy,

Develop practical strategies for green enterprise development,

Strengthen support mechanisms for SMMEs,

Build collaborative networks and improve market access across Mpumalanga.

The event formed part of a broader consultative process, following earlier virtual engagements in the Ehlanzeni and Nkangala districts.

Nkonyane noted the growing commitment from stakeholders to build skills, enhance capacity, and prepare SMMEs to thrive in the emerging green economy.