In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, digital literacy and access to public sector procurement opportunities are vital for the growth and sustainability of women-owned and led Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). Acknowledging these crucial needs, the Graça Machel Trust organised a transformative one-day training session on 8th August 2024 in Johannesburg, South Africa. This training was meticulously designed to tackle the challenges that women entrepreneurs often face, particularly their limited knowledge of digital tools and the complexities surrounding public sector procurement processes.
Objectives of the training
The training session was guided by four primary objectives:
- Digital Competency: To equip women entrepreneurs with essential skills to effectively navigate and utilise digital tools, thereby enhancing their business operations.
- Market Expansion: To educate participants on leveraging online marketing and e-commerce platforms to broaden their market reach and customer base.
- Procurement Simplification: To simplify the public sector procurement process by providing clear, actionable guidelines on how to participate successfully.
- Networking and Collaboration: To facilitate networking opportunities, enabling women entrepreneurs to connect with key stakeholders and peers, fostering collaboration and mutual support.
Highlights of the training
The training session brought together 50 participants, including women entrepreneurs, expert trainers, and representatives from the Trust. The event was led by two specialised trainers--one focused on Digital Tools and the other on Public Sector Procurement Processes. To further enrich the learning experience, the public sector procurement trainer was accompanied by a government official who provided invaluable insights into the procurement landscape. This included practical advice on how entrepreneurs can better prepare for tender opportunities, conduct thorough research, and solidify their tender proposals.
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The official also shared detailed knowledge on the regulatory framework governing public sector procurement, offered compliance guidance, and engaged with participants through a Q&A session. This interaction helped clarify participants' understanding and boosted their confidence in navigating the often complex public sector procurement process.
A step towards advancement and growth
This one-day training marked a significant milestone in the Trust's mission to support women entrepreneurs across Africa. By equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to leverage digital tools and navigate public sector procurement, the Trust is playing a pivotal role in supporting the economic growth and sustainability of women-led SMMEs. The training not only enhanced the participants' business acumen but also fostered a strong spirit of collaboration and networking. This, in turn, is expected to contribute to their ongoing success in the competitive and ever-changing business environment.
As the Trust continues its efforts to support and uplift women entrepreneurs, the impact of such initiatives is clear: women are being supported to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and drive economic transformation across the continent.
