GRAAFF-REINET NEWS — The Graaff-Reinet Chamber of Commerce (GCOC) held its first public annual general meeting to a packed venue of attendees.
The GCOC decided on a new approach for this year’s meeting by opening it up to the general public and individuals involved in business, agriculture and tourism.
Along with members of the executive committee, members of the public and municipal officials were also in attendance as the Chamber attempts to diversify and create an atmosphere of inclusivity.
Chairperson of the GCOC executive committee, Dawie Putter, welcomed guests, new and old, and took the liberty of outlining the objectives and focus of the Chamber.
Putter described the focus of the Chamber as one focusing on the economic well-being of the Graaff-Reinet community. The focus of GCOC also extends to ensuring a healthy environment for business to operate in as well as successfully linking up with civil structures to ensure a productive business climate is experienced by all businesses operating within the town.
In their objectives, the executive committee chairman, highlighted the Chamber's objectives as firstly, to reach out to young entrepreneurs and be a guide to young and up and coming business owners.
In terms of opportunities, the Chamber shed light on sustainable, responsible energy development in the area and also mentioned tourism as a strong contributing sector in the town’s economic success.
Challenges facing the town were also discussed and listed as a lack of communication forums between sectors and unemployment.
The Chamber also expressed the need for more consistent and formalised interaction between the local municipality and the Chamber.
Port Elizabeth’s Mayoral Member and guest speaker, Andrew Whitfield, in his speech, focused on the importance of partnerships between government and civil societies as well as the importance of planning around politics in the context of business.
He described these partnerships as partnerships which transcend political cycles and share one common interest, the community.
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