The MEC for Destea, Makalo Mohala, says this as the department wants to make sure that the province becomes a leader in driving socio-economic freedom, amongst others.

He says the 2019/20 tabling of the budget vote will be futile to the department in years to come if some of the commitments being made are not fulfilled and adhered to by the department.

He adds that with the high rate of unemployment, mainly consisting of youth between the ages of 18 and 35 years old, it is necessary for the department to work efficiently with the small businesses in the province to ensure that they prosper.

Mohale says his department will not stop at anything to make sure that they revolutionise the economy of the province with hopes that youngsters are giving the necessary skills and guidance.

He also adds that the department will revitalise the rural and township economy. Mohale says stokvels in the townships and rural areas will be helped to become part of the mainstream economy. He says with the high rate of unemployment in the Free State, the small businesses need serious attention and will now optimally support the small enterprise business.  

"A low-risk sharing" programme by the department will now be utilised with the hopes of avoiding any risks for small businesses and the department says it will step in and assist these small businesses.

Mohale confirmed that the province has last year recorded R8.4 billion worth of foreign investments, with notable economic growth in the Mangaung metro and Fezile Dabi.

He alluded that more needs to be done to draw investments in the other three districts. Mohale says his department aims to achieve this through infrastructure development, and enhancement of tourists attractions.  

Mohale has committed that his budget will also cover key areas such as the filling of vacancies and support to SMMEs amongst others. "Half a million has been set aside for graduate interns to provide them with work experience," he said.

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