Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga – The future of youth entrepreneurship took center stage on September 25, 2025, as the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality hosted a major Youth Business Seminar at the Segwati Boutique Hotel. Spearheaded by Executive Mayor Cllr Matlanatso Lydia Moroane, the event was a powerful initiative designed to equip young people with the essential knowledge, skills, and access needed to thrive in the local economy.
Mayor Moroane was joined by a committed team, including MMC Sylvia Mathebula, Municipal Manager Jasper Ngobeni, representatives from Youth Affairs, and local Councillors, underscoring the municipality’s unified approach to youth empowerment. The seminar was also graced by the presence of Traditional Leadership, whose crucial support continues to bridge local government efforts with community-based development.
Stakeholders Deliver Practical Pathways to Success
The seminar transformed into a vibrant collaborative platform, drawing an impressive array of provincial and national stakeholders who provided practical guidance and tangible opportunities for the attending youth. Young entrepreneurs from across the municipality actively engaged with representatives on critical topics such as business development, funding requirements, and accessing financial assistance.
The list of participating organizations reflected the comprehensive nature of the support offered:
- Financial & Enterprise Development: Ehlanzeni District Municipality, SEDFA, NYDA, MEGA, and the Office of the Premier.
- Regulatory & Compliance: South African Revenue Services (SARS).
- Sector-Specific Opportunities: DARDLEA (Agriculture), SANPARKS, MTPA, MRTT, TECSA, DEDT, DSCR, and DFFE (Environmental Affairs).
This direct engagement offered a renewed sense of hope and equipped the youth with the necessary tools and connections to confidently pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions and contribute meaningfully to the local economy.
Alignment with National Mandate
The Youth Business Seminar stands as a clear action point aligning with the ANC Manifesto on Local Government. It specifically addresses the commitment to “creating jobs and supporting youth entrepreneurship through partnerships and access to funding and skills development.”
The event demonstrates the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality’s dedication to moving beyond policy and implementing real-world solutions. It is a clear reflection of the municipality’s mission to build an inclusive economy that places youth empowerment at its forefront.
Leadership on the Ground
Executive Mayor Cllr Matlanatso Lydia Moroane’s active involvement highlights a commitment to people-centered leadership. Her presence and direct engagement with the community are consistent with her tenure, serving as a testament to her dedication to effective service delivery and sustainable development within the municipality. The successful execution of the seminar reinforces the administration’s proactive stance on addressing the challenge of youth unemployment.
With the conclusion of this high-impact event, the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality has firmly reiterated its promise to nurture its young talent, setting a hopeful trajectory for the region’s economic growth.
Halala Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, Halala!
