Limpopo MEC for Economic Development, Environment and Tourism Seaparo Sekoati
Addressing members of various cooperatives, in Polokwane, on Thursday, Limpopo MEC for Economic Development, Environment and Tourism Seaparo Sekoati said the provincial government was committed to supporting cooperatives, as it believed these associations had a critical role to play in improving the lives of historically disadvantaged communities.
“As the Limpopo government, we have considered the role that should be played by cooperatives in delivering services to our people, eradicating poverty and ensuring economic inclusion.
“We believe in the future of cooperatives and that is why we have decided that 10% of government procurement should be from cooperatives. We do not want to pay lip-service to cooperative development. We want to walk the talk,” he commented.
Sekoati was speaking at a three-day event hosted by the newly established Department of Small Business Development, in partnership with the Limpopo Economic Development, Environment and Tourism Department and the South African National Apex Cooperative (Sanaco).
He added that he was encouraged by the “keen interest” shown by many cooperatives to work with government, but cautioned them to be ethical when dealing with government and avoid becoming involved in corruption and maladministration.
“Cooperatives must start to understand the critical role they are expected to play in the economy of the province and of the country as a whole, and should deal with government with integrity and honesty,” Sekoati asserted.
He added that the growth and sustainability of cooperatives and small and medium-sized enterprises in the province were a priority of his department and was “part and parcel” of the broader vision to improve the lives of historically disadvantaged people.
Sanaco president Lawrence Bale further urged cooperatives to throw their weight behind the national umbrella organisation for cooperatives, adding that Sanaco would lobby for more support from the provincial government, which could be formalised through the signing of a memorandum of understanding.
“The Sanaco leadership in the province is willing to work closely with the government of Limpopo and its agencies to assist cooperatives to grow and become sustainable,” he said.