Speaking during the 50th anniversary commemorations of the Soweto uprising, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni made an important observation: governments do not create jobs; they create conditions for economic growth, while entrepreneurs must seize the opportunities that follow. She also candidly acknowledged that current funding for small businesses remains insufficient.
In principle, GI Advisory agrees with this position. Sustainable employment is created primarily by the private sector, not the state. Government’s strategic role is to establish and facilitate a responsive and enabling environment in which businesses can grow and employ more South Africans.
The challenge, however, lies in translating this principle into operational reality. Access to opportunity is often constrained by regulatory delays and inconsistent responsiveness in state institutions. Removing these obstacles is not about increasing dependence on government; it is about enabling capable businesses to focus on delivery rather than bureaucracy.
Companies in South Africa are already demonstrating the entrepreneurial leadership envisaged by the Minister. Sibiyakakgomo Construction & Projects (Pty) Ltd, a CIDB-certified civil engineering contractor, is currently undertaking road rehabilitation and municipal infrastructure projects in Emalahleni, Mpumalanga. Irrespective of how commercial opportunities arise, businesses that are actively delivering infrastructure contribute to local economic activity and support employment.
The policy direction is therefore sound. The next step is deliberate implementation. Creating a more responsive regulatory environment and reducing unnecessary administrative barriers for businesses that are already operating will strengthen entrepreneurship and contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s economic growth.
GI Advisory is a Pretoria-based corporate intelligence and investigative practice. Its analysis is based on publicly observable facts and their strategic implications. References to organisations are made for analytical purposes and do not constitute an endorsement.
