22 June 2006 Joburg hosts exhibition for informal traders The City of Johannesburg will be hosting an exhibition for informal traders from 11am to 2pm at Wits University's Senate House Ground Floor on Sunday 25 June 2006. Member of the Mayoral Committee for Finance and Economic Development, Councillor Parks Tau says: " business from across the spectrum has been invited and advised to present marketing information on entrepreneurship, successful business models and business development guiding notes." "The intention is really to enable informal traders to have immediate and real access to information from companies or businesses that they can learn and benefit from", says Clr Tau. Joburg's Economic Development Unit together with Wits Enterprise Unit is co-coordinating the exhibition. The Wholesale and Retail SETA, ABSA, The Business Place, Umsobomvu and Metro Trading Company are among some of the exhibiters. " We want traders to leave the exhibition knowing what is required to open a business account, information on potential markets for inexpensive products, drawing up of business plans as well as health and safety matters", says Clr Tau. Clr Tau disclosed that early this year, the City invested R1.4million in a skills development programme for informal traders called "Grow Your Own Business". 500 informal traders enrolled for the free 14-week business course at Wits University in February this year. The objective of the course is to develop them to eventually move into the formal sector. These traders are about to complete their course and the exhibition complements what they learnt. This project is part of the City's vision to effectively transform Johannesburg into a globally competitive world-class African City by the year 2030. As part of its investment and economic development programme, Joburg creates opportunities and facilitates the development of the informal sector - a vital role-player in the achievement of the city's main goal. For more information contact Ms Lavelle Nomdo on 358 3698. Virgil James: Spokesperson Communications Telephone: 407 7226 Facsimile: 403 3494 Cell: 082 467 9415 Email: virgilj@joburg.org.za