Mother City economic development policies open for public comment

© Maurizio De Mattei – 123RF.com

Unemployment remains one of South Africa’s key socio-economic challenges and nearly a quarter (24,68%) of the working age population in Cape Town is unemployed. According to the Informal Economy Study conducted in 2015, the informal sector contributes approximately R4,3 billion annually to the Cape Town economy.

"Based on the above premise, we need to make sure that our City processes and procedures are simple enough to support the development of SMMEs, including the informal economy. Job creation and economic growth relies on the growth and expansion of existing enterprises and new businesses. We need to do all we can, collectively, to ensure that we lend a helping hand to grow and develop the SMME sector,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Tourism, Events and Economic Development, Councillor Eddie Andrews.

Draft Markets Policy

The lack of a management model and a clear definition for markets has added to their failure in some areas. The draft policy provides a clear distinction between ‘markets’ and ‘events’ and provides a consistent set of guidelines on the management of markets on City-owned properties. The draft policy outlines the application process for markets, provides a consistent process to assess market applications, and clearly sets out the roles and responsibilities of the market operator and the various City departments.

Draft Business Support Policy

The current Business Support Policy, adopted by Council in 2003, is outdated. A review is required to highlight the City’s business support package and services available to create an enabling and supportive environment for businesses to grow and develop.

Many small business owners have mentioned key challenges that prevent them from growing into sustainable entities in the long-term. On average, small businesses spend eight working days a month dealing with red tape and regulatory burden, which accounts for R1 in every R20 spent by companies. Small business owners have also complained that it is complex to transact with the City.

The draft policy provides clear guidelines on the procedures for business owners who wish to transact with the City. It also outlines a clear business support package for Cape Town to be a business-friendly destination.

"According to the 2015 Cost of Doing Business Report, the City of Cape Town has the potential to out-perform high-income countries if it implements key reforms. I would like to urge all interested and affected parties to use this opportunity to submit their comments and feedback on the draft policies. We have noted the challenges that both markets and small businesses have faced and we are confident that the draft policies will improve City processes to be more supportive of informal and small businesses. So let us all work together to shape the new policies," added Councillor Andrews.

All interested and affected parties have until 17 November 2016 to submit their comments either at local libraries, subcouncil offices, via e-mail, fax, post or online on the City of Cape Town website.

The draft policies can be accessed here:

• Draft Markets Policy
  
• Draft Business Support Policy