As part of the Making Change Real Writeshop, participants visited Cato Manor  and were exposed to the local economic development (LED) Programme of Cato Manor Area Based Management (ABM)

During the visit, Mr. Nkosinathi Zondi, the Cato Manor ABM Local Economic Development Officer highlighted that the framework being used for LED within Cato Manor is a multi-pronged, ladder approach that supports survivalist entrepreneurs through micro, small to medium size enterprises. To illustrate this, participants visited a number of sites, namely:

• the Wiggins Business Hive, which is a cluster of small businesses, operating across a range of different sectors and exists to ‘groom’ new businesses over an unspecified period. Previously, many of these businesses operated either from their homes or on the streets. Once they have developed the requisite capacity, they graduate to the Umkhumbane Entrepreneurial Support Centre (UESC)
• Umkhumbane Entrepreneurial Support Centre (UESC) where businesses ‘incubate’ for upto 3 years. On completion, they should be able to compete in the open market with minimal support from the ABM. Typically, entrepreneurs operating in this space are well advanced in their trades, and are still monitored and supported by the ABM.

The group also visited the SPCA Site for Organic Farming, which is run by a local cooperative in the agri-business sector. A youth representative, Mr. Ali Sandile Khumalo shared some insights and experiences about their work. It was noted that the cooperative had made significant changes in the lives of the people in terms of imparting skills and knowledge to grow the cooperative, however, challenges still remain. While its primary purpose was to secure livelihoods, members have not directly benefited economically since its inception in 2006. However, they were optimistic that they would eventually benefit from the economic activities of the cooperative. The Cooperative comprises mainly youth and women and is involved in poultry, honey-making, and organic farming.

The fieldtrip concluded with a dinner in the community prepared by one of the beneficiaries of the Cato Manor ABM’s programme.

About Cato Manor ABM

Cato Manor Area Based Management (ABM) Programme, focuses on social and economic development. The ABM sees its role as that of an overseer, coordinator, and facilitator of social and economic development in the area. In partnership with community stakeholders, the ABM tackles social problems such as crime, drug abuse, and HIV and AIDS. The Programme also sets out to create a conducive environment for enterprise development in order to foster local economic development.

It is one of the 5 ABMs of the eThekwini Municipality, that aims to alleviate poverty by developing and supporting small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), including cooperatives. Cato Manor ABM has been funded by the European Union and eThekwini Municipality.