A boost for Bitou youth employment

PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Bitou Municipality launched an innovative programme in support of informal businesses operated by the youth of the area.

A budget of between R150 000 and R200 000 has been allocated to businesses run on a small scale by youth entrepreneurs, according to Bitou mayor's office. Funds will be available for buying equipment that will boost economic development in Bitou townships.

Among the entrepreneurs who could benefit are car washers, barbers and nail technicians.

Applications for financial aid opened on Tuesday 18 June and all applicants will be interviewed by a panel selected by the director of town planning and the CFO, led by the local economic development (LED) section.

"It is a pioneer programme doing groundbreaking work," said manager in the mayor's office, Rouston Plaatjies.

Bitou mayor Claude Terblanche was at the Youth Day function held at the Bossiesgif sports field on Sunday 16 June.

There was an impressive line-up of artists who performed there, including Betusile, Goldmax Diala Mshunqisi and NV Funk - as well as dancers from the Abahlanyisi Xhoseconoa dance group.

Terblanche said it was an historic day and Bitou always recognised national days. He would continue to remind the youth that everyone has a role to play in the country.

"The youth must remember that in future they must never stop fighting for democracy.

"The youth is where the power lies," said Terblanche.

A video of the Abahlanyisi Xhosa dance group can be seen online.

Ward 5 Bitou councillor Samkele Manxaba and mayor Claude Terblanche at the Bitou Youth Day function.