In a significant move poised to amplify the voices of grassroots enterprises, Ms. Qhamisa Tengile, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TREDA, has been appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa to serve on the Steering Committee of the National Dialogue of South Africa (NDSA). This appointment is hailed as a “powerful moment for the township and rural economy.”
Elevating Grassroots Enterprise Voices
Ms. Tengile will serve as the Chairperson of the Small, Emerging and Informal Economy Sector within the NDSA Steering Committee. Her role will be crucial in ensuring that the perspectives, needs, and challenges of small, medium, and micro-enterprises (SMMEs), particularly those operating in townships and rural areas, are effectively integrated into the national agenda.
“MS QHAMISA TENGILE, CEO OF TREDA, HAS BEEN APPOINTED BY PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA TO SERVE ON THE STEERING COMMITTEE OF THE NATIONAL DIALOGUE OF SOUTH AFRICA (NDSA) AS CHAIRPERSON OF THE SMALL, EMERGING AND INFORMAL ECONOMY SECTOR – ENSURING GRASSROOTS ENTERPRISE VOICES SHAPE THE NATIONAL AGENDA.”
Her extensive experience leading TREDA (Township and Rural Economic Development Agency) places her in a unique position to coordinate SMMEs and contribute substantively to shaping a meaningful national dialogue that reflects the diverse economic landscape of South Africa.
Appreciation for Presidential Leadership
The announcement also extended appreciation to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who is the Convener of the National Dialogue of South Africa (NDSA) Steering Committee. He is acknowledged for “opening the door to the voice of SMMEs and custodian of the township and rural economy.” This underscores the government’s recognition of the critical role that these sectors play in national economic development and job creation.
The National Dialogue of South Africa aims to foster comprehensive discussions and collective action among various stakeholders to address the nation’s most pressing challenges. Ms. Tengile’s appointment signals a strong commitment to making this dialogue truly inclusive and reflective of all economic tiers.
Looking Ahead
As Ms. Tengile embarks on this important national role, the well wishes from the community emphasize the hope that she will successfully coordinate and channel the inputs from SMMEs to build “A nation that works for all.” Her leadership on the steering committee aligns with the overall vision of the NDSA: “LEAVE NO ONE BEHIND.”
