By Azwidohwi Mamphiswana
The Gauteng Treasury has allocated R4.9 billion for economic development in a bid to create an enabling environment for small businesses.
Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile tabled the province’s 2025 budget, allocating R527.2 billion for the 2025 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF).
Maile said the budget was aimed at stimulating economic growth, addressing unemployment, improving infrastructure and supporting SMMEs, which were critical components of the province’s economic recovery.
“In a province like Gauteng where SMMEs make up a large part of the economic fabric, we recognise that supporting these businesses is crucial for sustainable growth. The future of Gauteng lies in empowering our small businesses.
“We will continue to create opportunities that allow them to thrive and expand their contribution to the economy,” he said.
Despite the budget’s ambitious goals, some small business owners remain cautious about the tangible benefits.
Bonga Mthembu, owner of tech startup IT Café in Soshanguve, Tshwane, voiced frustration over bureaucratic hurdles that have hindered his growth.
“It’s not enough to just say you’re supporting SMMEs. The process is long and most of us don’t qualify for the available funding. I think the government needs to take us seriously. We need quicker, simpler access to funds,” Mthembu said.
Maile did speak to these issues.
“We know that bureaucracy often slows down the process, and we’re working to streamline it. Our goal is to reduce red tape and make funding and support more accessible for businesses that need it most,” he said.
A total of R36.6 billion has been set aside for infrastructure over three years, including R9.7 billion for roads and transport in the 2025/26 financial year.
For business owners like Thabo Mokoena, who operates a logistics company through Bolt in Pretoria Central, this is a welcome change.
“We need better roads and more reliable transport. The infrastructure is just not there, and until that changes, we’ll keep facing delays and added costs. I appreciate the government’s commitment, but we need to see action soon,” Mokoena stated.
In addition to infrastructure, Gauteng’s budget includes a focus on green energy and industrialisation. Small business owners, particularly in manufacturing, see potential in this sector.
Khosi Maduna, who works for a Vharovhi manufacturing sand plant, is optimistic.
“The focus on green energy is exciting, especially for businesses like mine, which could benefit from renewable energy solutions. But I worry about the competition. If we can’t access the technology or the resources, these opportunities will be lost to larger corporations,” said Maduna.
