BHP Billiton boosts Zululand SME community

Between 2009 and 2013, no fewer than 170 entrepreneurs have participated in BHP Billiton's two-year programme and several of these entrepreneurs have transformed their fledgling enterprises into dynamic and successful businesses. In fact, one programme beneficiary won the 2012 Zululand Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZCCI) Business of the Year Award. More significantly, these entrepreneurs have created 800 jobs during this period, making an invaluable contribution to providing livelihoods and stimulating the Zululand economy.

Encouraging entrepreneurship

"I wish to congratulate BHP Billiton for launching this initiative which will undoubtedly help speed up the entrepreneurship revolution. As government we acknowledge the fact that entrepreneurship is central to the growth and development of our country," says Dr Zweli Mkhize.

BHP Billiton has invested R50 million in the Enterprise and Supplier Development Centre that comprises around 1300 square metres and provides "hot desk" areas, offices, training rooms and two workshops. This brand new facility is purpose-built to "green" building standards and as such is designed to reduce heat loads, maximise natural light and promote the circulation of fresh air. It has energy-efficient air-conditioning and lighting, water efficient plumbing fittings and water harvesting technology in place.

"South Africa's Department of Trade and Industry has recognised that the growth of the small business sector cannot be attained without job creation and that in order to make this happen, SMEs must be assisted to grow and develop to become sustainable, job-creating enterprises," asserts Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi.

"At BHP Billiton we have taken this to heart and designed our Enterprise and Supplier Development Centre, comprising a Training Centre and a Business Incubator, as a demonstration of our commitment to KwaZulu-Natal - and particularly, to the development of a thriving industry providing sustainable jobs in Richards Bay," Dr Mkhwanazi adds.

Tools for prosperity

Prior to the building of its own Enterprise Development Centre, BHP-Billiton was making use of rented premises at which to offer qualifying SMEs its Enterprise Development Programme. The programme, which provides training, coaching and mentoring aimed at equipping entrepreneurs with the skills and tools to prosper, is facilitated by business education specialist Raizcorp and sponsored in its entirety by BHP-Billiton's aluminium business in South Africa.

Dr Mkhwanazi concludes, "A highly skilled and successful SME sector is imperative to economic growth in South Africa. BHP Billiton Aluminium is invested in KZN for the long term and we believe that critical to assuring our business objectives, is helping to create thriving local SMEs. We believe that these in turn will contribute to growing a prosperous Zululand for themselves and the people they employ."

The Enterprise and Supplier Development Centre demonstrates BHP Billiton's commitment not only to the community of Richards Bay and the province of KwaZulu-Natal, but to the entire country.

For more information, go to www.bhpbilliton.com.