The Internet Café aims to bridge the gap in business support facilities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Secunda Fenceline townships. Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) is introducing a tailored development opportunity specifically targeting SMEs operating in this sector.
This groundbreaking initiative, launched at the Sasol ESD SME Sustainability Summit in November 2023, aims to provide beneficiaries with state-of-the-art, self-powered Mobile Business Centers, coupled with comprehensive business support to ensure the sustainable operation of their internet cafés.
Initiative description
Sasol launched an innovative Internet Café initiative in December 2023 to support township Small and Medium Enterprises in Embalenhle, Mpumalanga, promoting growth and development within local communities. Through strategic partnerships with ESD beneficiaries such as B Real Construction, Climaairt Effect, Kubyala ICT, and The Solar Power Café, Sasol provides tailored opportunities for sustainable success, including market and infrastructure access, resulting in a mobile containerised business centre. By providing sustainable business solutions to SMEs, Sasol fosters a positive impact on communities in line with SDG 9 (innovation and infrastructure).
The Secunda-based container will be used as an internet café, showcasing local businesses’ resilience and commitment to sustainable solutions. The container is fitted with a printing area (including printer), support desk, secure storage, Internet Café workstations, HVAC system, and solar power. It will also be branded to reflect the identity of the successful development beneficiary.
The internet cafe will provide economic empowerment and technological advancement for Embalenhle, symbolising the collective strength of SMEs and Sasol’s vision of building stronger communities and fostering innovation, setting the stage for a sustainable and inclusive business ecosystem, in line with SDG 7 (clean energy) and SDG 5 (gender equality).
Key interventions and impact areas
Market access. Platform provided for the internet café to reach a wider customer base and market access, to ensure sustainable growth and profitability.
Business guidance. Support the internet café to navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and build a solid foundation for long-term success.
Access to finance through purchase order (PO) funding. Securing financial support through PO funding enables SMEs to reach new customers and scale their operations effectively.
Infrastructure access for Township-based SMEs. Access to infrastructure such as the mobile business centre, creates a conducive environment for effective operations, fostering productivity and innovation within the community.
Outcome/Performance by ESD
Fostering collaboration. Amplifies Sasol’s impact and promotes beneficial change within the community, aligning with SDG 17 (partnerships). This showcases inclusive development amongst ESD beneficiaries, leveraging expertise and resources, fostering a stronger support network within the community.
Sustainable business operations. Business support services alongside mobile business centres are provided to ensure sustainable operation of township cafés. This enhances resilience of SMEs, enabling them to thrive in a competitive market environment. Sasol actively fosters job creation and promotes sustainable economic growth within the community, aligning with SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth).
Economic empowerment. Through sustainable mobile centres and business support, the initiative empowers SMEs for sustainable growth. This empowerment translates into increased economic opportunities and financial independence.
Capacity building and skill development. Utilising business guidance and support services, the initiative equips café owners with valuable skills to manage their businesses effectively.
The success of the Internet café initiative underscores the undeniable value of partnerships between corporates and SMEs in ESD endeavors. Through such strategic alliances, the power of small business development is harnessed to nurture SMEs, empowering them to make substantial contributions to our nation’s economic development. This initiative not only fosters the growth of individual enterprises but also cultivates a strong and inclusive business ecosystem in Embalenhle, paving the way for a prosperous and sustainable future.
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