Document: The Role of Co-operatives in Enterprise and SMME Development

Mobilisation of local communities in combating unemployment and poverty is crucial. There is a need that the Local Government and local actors such as co-operatively organised structures become partners in delivering economic and social development across the Municipality. Decentralisation is a way to improve the quality of services and responds to the needs and opportunities in the local economy. It is at local level that the potential for job creation can be tapped: In sectors from crafts, retail to agriculture and tourism, in manufacturing and marketing of local produce and goods and in housing improvements. It is at that local level in particular that education and training will be organised, developed and delivered. This document provides information on co-operative models to enhance entrepreneurship and ultimately improve local economies.