The Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ms Alexandra Abrahams, today called for greater youth participation in South Africa’s emerging green and circular economy sectors, describing them as important drivers of future economic growth, innovation and job creation.
Speaking during the Youth Businesses in Green and Circular Industry webinar hosted by the South African Youth Trade Association (SAYTA), Abrahams said South Africa’s transition towards a more sustainable economy presents significant opportunities for young entrepreneurs to establish and grow businesses in sectors that are expected to expand rapidly over the coming decades.
Abrahams noted that while South Africa continues to confront persistent challenges such as unemployment, slow economic growth and climate-related risks, these challenges also create opportunities for new industries, technologies and business models to emerge.
“South Africa faces challenges like climate change and high unemployment, but the transition to a lower carbon economy presents opportunities in renewable energy, battery storage and sustainable agriculture. the dtic initiatives like the Power Up platform and the Youth Employment Service are there to support youth entrepreneurship in these sectors and create employment,” said Abrahams.
Abrahams highlighted the growing opportunities available to young people across renewable energy, battery storage, sustainable agriculture, recycling, manufacturing and related value chains. She said the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) continues to support enterprise-led growth through programmes aimed at strengthening industrial development, expanding investment and improving access to economic opportunities.
She emphasised that the transition to a cleaner economy is not solely an environmental imperative, but also an economic opportunity capable of attracting investment, strengthening energy security and creating sustainable employment opportunities for young South Africans.
Abrahams acknowledged that access to finance, markets and business support services remains a significant challenge for many young entrepreneurs. She said targeted interventions are required to ensure that young people are able to participate meaningfully in emerging industries and benefit from new economic opportunities.
“Youth entrepreneurs should familiarise themselves with opportunities in these sectors and engage with institutions like the Industrial Development Corporation and National Empowerment Fund for access to finance, mentorship, and market opportunities. They must also explore export opportunities through the African Continental Free Trade Area and the dtic’s export promotion programme,” she said.
She encouraged young entrepreneurs to position themselves to take advantage of opportunities arising from South Africa’s growing integration into regional and international markets, particularly through the African Continental Free Trade Area.
She further stressed that unlocking the full potential of youth entrepreneurship will require stronger collaboration between government, development finance institutions, private investors, industry stakeholders and youth organisations.
Abrahams commended the South African Youth Trade Association for creating a platform that equips young entrepreneurs with information, networks and practical insights needed to participate in South Africa’s evolving economy.
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