SACCMVA conducted first imbizo

GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - The SACCMVA conducted its first Business Imbizo in Graaff-Reinet from 29 to 31 July. The SACCMVA is a military veterans organisation consisting of former members of the South African Cape Corps (SACC).

The SACC consisted of Khoisan soldiers that were part of the former South African Defence Force (SADF) from 1966 to 1989 and were deployed during the South African Border War.

On 30 July a session was conducted on Edenvale farm to discuss ways in which to establish a new business with the aim of becoming self-sustainable. SACCMVA president, Luke Plaatjies, outlined the challenges faced by military veterans, particularly regarding recognition, despite the approval of their application for recognition as a Military Veterans Organisation by the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans in October 2018.

Guest speakers Dr P.M. Dlamini, Gauteng business owner, and Sakkie van Zyl, local business owner and member of the SACCMVA, focused on the establishment of a new business and shared valuable entrepreneurial advice.

Dlamini thanked the military veterans for offering themselves for the safety of the country and said it saddens him to hear that they now struggle for recognition. He encouraged the military veterans to start their own businesses.

Martin Block listens attentively.

“It can be done, just take the first step and start somewhere.” Van Zyl emphasized that the military veterans should decide whether they want to start their own businesses or merely receive a salary. He mentioned that people are so accustomed to receiving a monthly salary. “If you want to receive a salary, you can work for someone else, but if you want to work for yourself and provide salaries to other people, you must start your own business.” he said. “Be job creators, not job seekers” was his advice.

Guest speaker DA Member of Parliament, Samantha Graham-Maré, explained that her intention was not to give input on entrepreneurial skills but rather to see how she can be of assistance to the military veterans. “I am completely appalled at the failure of government to demonstrate their support for, and adhere to their legislative obligations towards, our Military Veterans. I will be taking these issues up in Parliament on their behalf,” said Graham-Maré.

“It was an immense privilege to be a guest speaker at this extremely enlightening Business Imbizo,” she added.

The Business Imbizo received an overwhelming response from the local SACCMVA members and businesses. The organisation wishes to thank the local sponsorships, in particular Venter’s Game and Biltong Delhi, Spandau Spar, Pick n Pay, Saverite supermarket, Cane Maintenance Solutions, Martin Block, Sakkie van Zyl and J. Azer for the venue.

According to Andrew Cane, member of the SACCMVA, the Business Imbizo was a great success. “We managed to enter into business deals which cannot be elaborated on at this point because of the Non-Disclosure Agreements that are in place,” Cane stated.

The group that met for the fist business imbizo. Photos: Neco Bokwe