The Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), in partnership with the City of Joburg’s Trade and Investment unit, celebrated the graduation ceremony of the first cohort of entrepreneurs who participated in the inaugural JCCI/COJ Exporter Development Programme.
This one-year export incubation programme for SMEs in South Africa equips entrepreneurs with the knowledge, expertise, and skills required to export South African products effectively to international markets. Launched in October last year, the training included exposure to inward and outward trade missions and various other trade events hosted by the Chamber throughout the year.
The programme was designed amid the emergence of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), which represents a significant milestone for the continent. The AfCFTA aims to create a single market for goods and services, facilitate the movement of capital and people, and boost intra-African trade. By reducing tariffs and non-tariff barriers, the AfCFTA is poised to enhance the competitiveness of African businesses, stimulate industrialisation, and foster economic integration across the continent.
JCCI President Connie Mashaba said that the AfCFTA opens up new opportunities for graduates of programmes like the JCCI/COJ Exporter Development Programme.
“South African businesses must understand that they can expand their reach beyond our borders, tapping into a vast and diverse market of over 1.2 billion people. This agreement provides a platform for increased trade and encourages collaboration and innovation, driving sustainable growth and development across Africa,” said Mashaba.
Of the 91 businesses that started the programme, 65 graduated. Notably, Bokgoni’s Creations, a company owned by a 15-year-old entrepreneur, Claire Nonyane, with the help of her mother, stood out—this young entrepreneur, who joined the programme at 14, trades in jewellery and fashion.
“This was a significant learning experience, and I appreciate the privilege of participating in the programme at such a young age. Such instrumental support in business development and growth will help us entrepreneurs transition from our basic understanding of vocation and location to better-equipped businesses,” she said.
Her programme highlights included the friendly and professional support team, high-level course content, valuable networking opportunities, and strategic events that significantly boosted her business acumen and confidence.
“We were invited to meet with the Consul General of India, where we exchanged ideas. He pledged his support for our business and challenged us to produce a specific range of products, which we are now working on presenting to him and his intended audience. We are now part of their database,” she shared.
Bernadette Zeiler, CEO of the JCCI, announced that the organisation would continue working with these businesses for the programme’s next phase, which will resume in August 2024.
“We are passionate about entrepreneurship. Through discussions with our funders and stakeholders, we have deemed it fit to provide businesses with the tools to enable them to operate anywhere in the world,” Zeiler expressed.
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