A flagship enterprise development initiative “Singakwenza Kwenzeke” (We can make it happen ), has been launched by Transnet Port Terminals.

This is a two – year capacity building programme focusing on the increased participation in the engineering sector by businesses owned by black women.

The owners of 20 small, medium and micro enterprises (SMME) across South Africa will be up-skilled to enhance their efficacy to compete in the bidding process for business opportunities. The first year will see the SMMEs trained on meeting standard requirements that companies look for in qualifying stages, namely adherence to regulations, labour laws, safety and environmental requirements. This includes meeting the requirements of statutory bodies as well as having the systems and equipment to run the business efficiently – where marketing and financial management will be emphasised. The second year will focus on improving the ability to manage projects and growing business.

Ntombeziningi Shezi,TPT General Manager: Procurement, said “Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) wants to contribute towards the nation-wide efforts to address the shortage of skills in black women owned engineering firms and to boost the number of women companies within TPT’s supply chain. It is an extremely ambitious goal, but with dedicated purpose it is not one that is outside of our reach. TPT has a history of promoting female leadership, diversity and inclusion, and we are confident that with this partnership, we can make great strides forward”.

These SMMEs would then be empowered to operate in disciplines previously not associated with women-owned businesses such as repairs and maintenance, plumbing repairs, equipment rental and supply.

With operations in the KwaZulu Natal, Eastern Cape and Western Cape regions, TPT has targeted SMMEs in these regions making for a varied database when opportunities do arise within the company.

The owners of the 20 SMMEs will be mentored throughout the two years, receiving monthly visits and where required, incubator facilities will be made available.

Shezi concludes, “The programme will ensure that these 20 SMMEs do not fall into the trap of failing when business grows, as the staff members they employ are of utmost importance and will serve the country better when they grow”.