Minister Stella Ndabeni Abrahams at National Local Economic Development
Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, speaking at the National Local Economic Development platform, announced that the government plans to support one million small businesses across South Africa. She emphasized that a key priority is reducing bureaucratic red tape, which has long been a major obstacle for entrepreneurs.
According to her, the process of registering and renewing business permits will be simplified, making it faster and more accessible for business owners.
This initiative is expected to unlock new opportunities, particularly for entrepreneurs operating in townships, where small businesses play a critical role in job creation and local economic growth. By easing regulatory burdens, the government aims to encourage more people—especially women and youth—to start and sustain their own enterprises.
Small businesses are widely recognized as the backbone of many economies. In South Africa, they contribute significantly to employment, accounting for a large percentage of jobs in both formal and informal sectors. However, excessive red tape—such as complex licensing procedures, high compliance costs, and delays in approvals—has historically limited their growth and sustainability.
Reducing these barriers can lead to increased innovation, improved competitiveness, and stronger local economies. Ndabeni-Abrahams noted that by streamlining processes and offering targeted support, the government hopes to create an enabling environment where small businesses can thrive, expand, and contribute meaningfully to economic transformation and inclusive growth across the country.