MAILE DRIVES GAUTENG'S LOCAL AGENDA: 'We Won't Be Held Hostage by Global Shocks'

 Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile emphasised collaboration, urging stakeholders to “buy local, invest local, build local". He also concluded, “The time for excuses is over. Gauteng is betting big on itself – join us.”

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief, The Azanian

Truth. Fearless. Unfiltered.

Gauteng, South Africa – Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile delivered a hard-hitting address at the 14th Buy Local Summit, declaring localisation a matter of economic survival.

“We won’t be held hostage by global shocks,” Maile declared, highlighting Gauteng’s strategic shift to bolster local industries and reduce import dependence.

With township businesses targeted to contribute 30% of GDP by 2030, Maile outlined aggressive support for SMMEs, including funding access, infrastructure upgrades, and procurement reforms. “This isn’t just policy – it’s a roadmap to community empowerment,” he stated, emphasising job creation and skills development in marginalised areas.

Maile criticised over-reliance on imports, citing Africa’s vulnerability in food, fuel, and manufacturing sectors. “Gauteng will lead the charge for local solutions,” he vowed, aligning provincial efforts with continental self-sufficiency goals. Initiatives like the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency are already driving partnerships between local firms and international investors.

The MEC spotlighted success stories, such as local manufacturers boosting production to meet rising demand for essential goods. “When we buy local, we circulate money within our communities, creating jobs and fostering innovation,” Maile said.

Township economies are responding, with new businesses opening in sectors like agri-processing and tech.

However, challenges persist. Maile acknowledged barriers like limited access to capital, skills gaps, and unfair competition from imports. “We’re addressing these head-on with targeted interventions,” he assured, citing tax incentives for local producers and stricter compliance checks on imported goods.

Gauteng’s vision aligns with global trends towards resilient, localised supply chains. Maile emphasised collaboration, urging stakeholders to “buy local, invest local, build local.” The province’s commitment: driving growth that benefits all communities.

The summit drew industry leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, all united in driving the local economy forward. As Maile concluded, “The time for excuses is over. Gauteng is betting big on itself – join us.” #Localisation #GautengLeads

Leading from the front  Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile.