WeeklySA_AdminELEVATE: A new digital training initiative is helping township entrepreneurs move beyond survivalist trading, equipping 120 Gauteng business owners with the tools to access wider markets, grow revenue and compete in an increasingly online economy…
By Nhlanhla Mbatha
More than 100 township entrepreneurs are stepping into the digital economy after completing a targeted programme designed to break one of the biggest barriers facing small businesses — access to markets.
The Township Digital Market Access (TDMA) is a brainchild of the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA), in partnership with 22 On Sloane and the UK-SA Tech Hub.
A graduation ceremony, held in Bryanston, Johannesburg recently, brought together participants from Soweto, Soshanguve, Tembisa, Diepsloot and Hammanskraal, highlighting the depth of entrepreneurial talent across Gauteng’s township economies.
A significant boost for township enterprise, the programme is positioning local entrepreneurs to compete beyond their local communities. It is designed to equip participants with the tools needed to expand their reach, strengthen their businesses and confidently compete in the digital economy.
Participants were supported in adopting practical digital solutions, including the use of social media, artificial intelligence tools and website development. Importantly, they were also connected to e-commerce platforms and last-mile delivery partners, enabling them to move beyond traditional trading methods and access broader customer bases.
Speaking at the graduation, W&RSETA’s head of marketing, communications and stakeholder relations, Vukani Mnyandu, highlighted the importance of investing in future-fit skills. He noted that digital trade continues to present significant opportunities for growth and that initiatives such as the TDMA programme are critical in ensuring that township enterprises are not left behind.
“This graduation is a testament to the potential within our township economies,” he said, adding that W&RSETA remains committed to empowering entrepreneurs with the skills needed to succeed both locally and globally.
W&RSETA contributed over R548 000 towards this phase of the programme, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive skills development and the transformation of the wholesale and retail sector. The investment forms part of the organisation’s broader strategy to support marginalised businesses and unlock economic participation.
Partners also reflected positively on the impact of the programme. Bongani Ntombela, executive for programmes at 22 On Sloane, noted the tangible improvements seen among participants, particularly in revenue growth and increased sales driven by their transition into e-commerce. He emphasised that by going digital, township businesses are not only reaching local markets but are also positioning themselves on a global stage.
Beyond improving digital capabilities, the programme has strengthened the credibility and visibility of participating businesses, enabling them to engage with larger buyers and platforms with greater confidence.
As W&RSETA continues to expand its partnerships and programmes, the TDMA initiative stands as a strong example of how collaboration can drive meaningful impact.
The organisation remains committed to advancing digital inclusion, supporting entrepreneurship and unlocking new opportunities within township economies.
