Gauteng’s MEC for Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Lebogang Maile, is calling on all residents, business owners, and organisations to make their voices heard by submitting written comments on the Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill before the 28 June 2025 deadline.
This bill aims to transform township economies into vibrant centres of growth by removing red tape, supporting local businesses, and opening more opportunities for township entrepreneurs. This is your chance to influence a law that directly impacts you, your family, and your community.
What is the Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill?
The Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill builds on the original legislation designed to empower businesses in townships. It introduces changes that aim to:
Simplify how township businesses register and operate.
Provide better access to funding and government services.
Protect local businesses from unfair competition.
Encourage government departments to procure more goods and services from township-based enterprises.
These amendments are part of a bigger push to make the township economy a key part of Gauteng’s economic future.
Why It Matters to You
If you are a:
Spaza shop owner
Hair salon operator
Mechanic
Street vendor
Township-based entrepreneur
This bill could directly benefit you. The Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill is designed to level the playing field and help township businesses grow without being crushed by big retail chains or complex regulations.
Learn more: R500 Million Spaza Shop Support Fund Application Process
Who Should Submit Comments?
Every Gauteng resident has the right to participate in the law-making process. Whether you are a:
Community leader
Business owner
Concerned citizen
Youth organisation
Civil society group
Your input can help make the bill stronger and more effective.
How to Send Your Comments
You can submit your views in writing by 28 June 2025 through email to either:
Make sure your comments are clear and explain how the proposed changes in the Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill will affect you or your business.
Where to Access the Full Bill
You can read the full text of the Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill online at:
It is free to download and available in PDF format for easy reading.
How This Bill Supports Township Development
The Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill promotes:
Job creation in township areas
Reduced red tape for starting and running small businesses
Stronger economic participation from women and youth
Better business infrastructure and support
These changes can stimulate township economies, reduce unemployment, and ensure that more people benefit from economic growth.
What Happens After You Submit Your Comments?
After the deadline, the Gauteng Department of Economic Development will:
Review all public submissions.
Consider changes to the Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill based on feedback.
Submit the final version to the Gauteng Legislature for approval.
This process ensures that the bill reflects the needs and realities of those who live and work in townships.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill?
The Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill is a proposed piece of legislation aimed at improving the economic conditions in Gauteng’s townships. It seeks to simplify business processes, enhance access to support services, and create more opportunities for township entrepreneurs. The amendments build on the original Township Economic Development Act to make it easier for local businesses to thrive.
Q: Why is MEC Lebogang Maile inviting public comments?
MEC Lebogang Maile wants to ensure that the Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill reflects the needs and concerns of township residents and businesses. By inviting public comment, he encourages individuals, organisations, and businesses to contribute their opinions, which will be considered before the bill is finalised. This open consultation allows for a more inclusive and effective law.
Q: Who can submit comments on the bill?
Anyone can submit comments! Whether you’re a business owner, community member, organisation, or even a concerned citizen, your opinion matters. This is a chance for people from all walks of life to engage with the bill and shape the future of the township economy.
Q: What are the key changes in the amendment bill?
The Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill proposes several changes:
Easier registration processes for township businesses.
Better access to funding and government services for township-based enterprises.
Protection against unfair competition from large businesses.
Increased support for township businesses looking to supply goods and services to the government.
These changes are designed to make it easier for township businesses to grow, create jobs, and contribute to the local economy.
Q: Why is this bill important for township businesses?
Township businesses often face challenges such as limited access to finance, red tape, and competition from bigger companies. The Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill aims to tackle these issues by making it easier for township businesses to register, get funding, and grow. It will also help protect local businesses from unfair competition, ensuring they have a fair chance to succeed.
Q: How will this bill affect job creation in the townships?
The Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill is expected to boost job creation by:
Supporting the growth of existing businesses.
Encouraging new businesses to open in the townships.
Making it easier for businesses to access government contracts.
Creating more opportunities for local workers.
By making it easier for businesses to thrive, the bill can directly lead to more jobs and economic opportunities for township residents.
Q: What happens after I submit my comments?
Once the deadline for submissions has passed, the Gauteng Department of Economic Development will review all public comments. They will consider these suggestions before finalising the bill and submitting it to the Gauteng Legislature for approval. Your input can help shape the final version of the law.
Q: When is the deadline for submitting comments?
The final deadline to submit written comments on the Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill is 28 June 2025. Make sure to submit your comments before this date to have your views considered.
Q: Can I submit my comments in any language?
Yes, you can submit your comments in any language that you feel most comfortable with. The aim is to make the process as accessible as possible for everyone in the community.
Q: How does this bill align with the government’s broader economic goals?
The Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill is part of the government’s broader vision to empower local communities, create more inclusive economic opportunities, and ensure that all residents have access to the benefits of economic development. By improving the business environment in townships, the bill contributes to the government’s broader goals of economic growth, poverty reduction, and job creation.
Let’s Build Together
We all want better communities, more jobs, and stronger local economies. The Gauteng Township Economic Development Amendment Bill gives us a real opportunity to achieve this—but it starts with your voice.
Don’t let this moment pass. Participate, engage, and help shape a better future for Gauteng’s townships.
