BASOTHO Enterprise Development Cooperation (BEDCO) executive head enterprise development, Pesha Shale says small, medium and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs) hold the key to the growth and sustainability of Lesotho’s economy.
Mr Shale said this recently on the sidelines of the ongoing 3rd Annual Entrepreneurship Expo and Business Summit at Manthabiseng Convention Centre.
He said with the world facing high unemployment, SMMEs are key in responding to challenges like poverty eradication.
Mr Shale noted that the expo is intended to spark debates that will influence policy to create an environment that is conducive for entrepreneurs to do business and utilise the available resources and platforms.
According to Mr Shale, the debates which will be featured as the expo progresses, will speak to issues including inter regional trade, e-commerce, education and entrepreneurship and the fourth industrial revolution among others.
He highlighted that Soft Skills Training Workshops will also be featured with the aim of giving each attendee a realistic perspective to help formulate problem solving skills in order to guide attendees in making appropriate and responsible decisions.
One of the entrepreneurs, owner of JMM Beekeeping (Pty) Ltd, Julia Mafike disclosed that she finds the expo critical as it raises awareness to consumers about the products which they sell which she says boosts business and profit.
Sister Mafike encouraged other entrepreneurs to participate in the next expo as services are for free as this will help transform their businesses.
At least 200 entrepreneurs are attending the expo which will is expected to end tomorrow.
The entrepreneurs are from categories that include arts and craft, clothing and medication among others.
This year’s entrepreneurship expo is facilitated by the government through BEDCO and the Private Sector represented by The Entrepreneurs Network (TEN). -LENA
