Trade rethinks SME strategy

The Ministrer of Trade and Industry, the Hon. Calle Schlettwein announced this week in Rundu at the Okavango Trade Fair that government is actively seeking to incorporate the Small and Medium Enterprises into the formal economy.
“Our Ministry is nevertheless currently in the process of reviewing the Small Medium Enterprise (SME) Policy and Programmes of 1997.
This review is to ascertain the impact of the SME sector as a result of the implementation of this policy but most importantly to align the SME Policy to other development frameworks such as the National Development Plans and Industry Policy”, he said.
The Ministry of Trade and Industry has constructed Small Medium Enterprise parks in the Kavango East and West Regions all in full operation. The Nkurenkuru as well as a Woodwork Common Facility Centre in Rundu, is fully equipped to provide services to businesses which are in the carpentry, joinery and upholstery sectors to manufacture products such as office and household furniture.
“The real engine of growth in the Kavango Region is you the entrepreneurs, the business community. The Ministry of Trade and Industry is looking forward to positive economic growth in the north eastern regions in the next five years and in encouraging the same vigour,” he said.

This Schelttwein said provides integrated support services and incentives to local entrepreneurs.
Government has up to date invested a total of N$12 million for the construction of related facilities in the two regions alone.
“I am told that these facilities, during the construction phase have created 229 temporary jobs. I am further pleased to note that 177 persons are being provided with jobs on a permanent basis by the current entrepreneurs occupying or operating at these business units,” he concluded.