The Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) has taken a significant step to boost the local economy. On Wednesday, 11 December 2024, it awarded industrial machines and overlockers to 17 clothing and textile enterprises.
This initiative forms part of a broader program to enhance the clothing and textile industry in the Eastern Cape. Over R500,000 has been invested in this phase alone, and since 2017, DRDAR has committed over R25 million to this vital sector.
The focus has been on empowering women and fostering sustainable livelihoods. MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe led the handover ceremony at the Tsolo Agriculture and Rural Development Institute.
“The department is intentional in its efforts to support women,” Kontsiwe said.
“Women often fall victim to gender-based violence because they depend entirely on men for financial support. We are here to liberate you.”
Kontsiwe urged beneficiaries to grow their businesses and create jobs.
“I want to encourage you to draw others to your businesses to create jobs,” she added.
For many recipients, the support represents a turning point. Bongiwe Mbo, one of the beneficiaries, shared her journey.
“I started my textile business with one domestic machine,” she said. “As my business grew, I bought a small overlocker and employed four young people. Three of them are permanently employed. I am grateful to DRDAR for their assistance. These new machines will help me expand further and employ more people.”
The equipment will significantly enhance Mbo’s and others’ productivity. It will allow them to scale operations and meet the rising demand for locally produced textiles.
DRDAR’s Director in the OR Tambo District, Zamile Madyibi, highlighted the importance of this investment.
“We have also undertaken to boost more clothing and textile businesses in the area. These businesses are employment drivers,” he said.
The OR Tambo District has long been a focal point for DRDAR’s initiatives. The region has great potential for industrial and agricultural development. Equipping small enterprises with essential tools creates a ripple effect of economic benefits.
This initiative is not limited to the OR Tambo District. MEC Kontsiwe announced plans to extend similar support to businesses in other districts.
Next week, she will hand over additional machines to enterprises in the Amathole District, demonstrating the department’s commitment across the province.
The clothing and textile industry is a significant driver of employment. It is central to DRDAR’s strategy to uplift rural communities. By focusing on this sector, the department creates a robust framework for economic development.
As the Eastern Cape rebuilds its economy, initiatives like these offer hope. They prioritize women’s empowerment and foster entrepreneurship. The department is laying a foundation for a more equitable and prosperous future.
Beneficiaries are not just recipients of equipment. They are partners in a shared vision of progress and resilience. With DRDAR’s continued support, clothing and textile enterprises can become key players in the province’s recovery.