SOYISO MALITI
A working relationship between Wallacedene and Bloekombos entrepreneurs, the Wallacedene CPF and the Delft Chamber of Business has been established after the groups met briefly to discuss ways of consolidating an entrepreneurial economy in the communities.
At the meeting on Thursday February 4, the chamber’s president, Harashaad Geldenhuys, urged those present to forge long-term relationships with businesses in the Kraaifontein industria, and discussed establishing a chamber for Kraaifontein entrepreneurs.
Mr Geldenhuys attributed the decision to branch out to Kraaifontein first, to various challenges faced by informal business and an appeal by the local police to get the chamber to entice locals to raise community participation in events, and to start businesses.
Formal and informal businesses were welcome to join the chamber, he said.
“A chamber is the most essential body that can regulate all types of businesses that contribute to the common good of sustainable progress, peace and justice, integrating self-development and services to others,” he said.
Mr Geldenhuys said the chamber is a governing body created by individuals that share the same goals and are not aligned to any political party.
Wallacedene CPF chairman Derrick Letlaila said it was of utmost importance that entrepreneurs attend the meetings because the businesses in the community had been seriously lacking in contrast to their counterparts in other areas, he said.
Mr Letlaila said he wanted to reinforce social awareness in the community and to instill a culture of businesses giving back to the community.
S’thembiso Yekeni, owner of a car wash and a Shisa Nyama (braai place), said the chamber provided an opportunity for people like him and that he was eager to attend future meetings.
Captain Gerhard Niemand had organised for the meeting to take place at the Kraaifontein police station, but it ended up being at Enkululekweni Primary School.
