Gauteng launches merchant development programme to empower township automotive businesses
'Each rand invested in township merchants contributes directly to job creation and community development. This programme is about more than numbers, it is about impact, dignity and participation,' Diale-Tlabela said.
AIDC CEO Andile Africa said the Chamdor automotive hub would serve as a base for supporting merchants through infrastructure, training and industry compliance support.
'The merchant development programme is more than repairing vehicles, it's about repairing the structural inequalities of the past and creating real opportunities.' said Africa.
WesBank's national contract manager for fleet services Marcellus Mbanda said the initiative complements the RT46 transversal contract which manages government vehicle procurement, maintenance and disposal.
'Since 2021, township merchants have received more than R37m in repair work through the initiative,' said Mbanda.
He said 243 merchants operating outside the Chamdor hub are benefiting from the programme, which focuses on servicing townships, informal settlements, and hostels .
The initiative is seen as a practical step towards building township economies by empowering small businesses to participate in government procurement and fleet maintenance.
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