More than 300 informal traders are being empowered with skills to run their businesses efficiently and with confidence.
The United Khula Informal Traders Association (Ukita) has introduced various programmes to uplift and develop their traders.
With the help of other stakeholders, including the City of Cape and the banks, Ukita introduced the programmes to its members at the Khayelitsha Training Centre on Wednesday August 21.
The programmes are aimed at helping small and informal businesses and were welcomed by members, who were also taught to manage their finances.
Speaking on behalf of informal traders in Khayelitsha, Thozama Gwente said informal trading is not only an alternative for unemployment but also a lifestyle to many.
She said the forum has decided to empower its members so that they can be more professional.
“We give them a learnership that takes a year and a skills programme that goes for three months. We want them to grow their businesses. We have people with stagnant business but that should come to an end. One cannot sell fat cakes for years but needs to develop into something else hence the programmes.
“But most importantly, we want them to save money, to know safety and security, that is why we have roped in banks. They also need to know how to register their businesses and be able to write business plans.”
Ms Gwente said they have held programmes in the past and have already helped a number of business people. She said many have gained marketing skills.
“Many are confident now. But we still have a long way to go to enlighten our people. As Ukita, it is our prerogative to empower each and every informal trader.”
She said their traders are from as far as Worcester and Paarl.
Thuliswa January-Tshofela from Khayelitsha runs a fashion and design small business.
She completed a three-month programme but has chosen to further her studies by joining Silulo Ulutho Technologies to learn computer skills.
She said during the training, she realised that she needed more computer skills. She said she was grateful for the opportunity.
“My passion for fashion has led me to take all the training I get. I am grateful to Ukita for encouraging us to learn more. I guess my dream is coming true now. I want to be a better business person,” she said.
She made a call to her business partners to acquire skills. “Most of us are illiterate when it comes to many things, including computers but that does not stop us from learning.
“When we are given a chance we should grab it. Let us equip ourselves and become better business people,” she said.
Ukita said the programmes are continuing. It called on interested informal traders to contact them on 021 902 5139 for training.