The Olifantshoek SMME Road Construction Training Programme, an Enterprise Development (ED) initiative, was launched in August by Khumani Iron Ore Mine, in collaboration with the Gamagara Local Municipality.
This programme will provide local SMMEs with accredited, hands-on training in road construction and safety by building local skills, strengthening small businesses, and contributing to sustainable economic growth in the community.
Over the next seven weeks, the participating SMMEs will receive expert theoretical and practical training from leading service providers B-Safe Africa and Tjeka Training Matters. Topics such as compiling compliant health and safety files, project execution standards, and the physical construction of a paved road will be covered.
Khumani Mine’s acting senior general manager, Corrie Kempenaars, said the initiative is about building skills and creating opportunities that last.
“By working in partnership with the Gamagara Local Municipality, we can ensure the training responds to community priorities and equips local contractors to deliver work that meets the highest quality and safety standards. It reflects our commitment to doing things the right way, together, for the benefit of the people of Olifantshoek.”
The SMMEs were selected through a publicly advertised and formal process. Eligibility criteria included being Olifantshoek-based, greater than 51% Black-owned, and qualifying as Exempted Micro Enterprises or Qualifying Small Enterprises. This transparent selection process ensures fairness and equal opportunity.
While the training is not a guarantee of future contracts, it will better position these SMMEs to compete for upcoming opportunities.
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