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The challenges and government support for SMEs at Sol Plaatje Municipality in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa

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  • Dikeledi Betty Nkoe

    (University of South Africa)

  • Ntsieni Fitzgerald Ramasimu

    (University of South Africa)

Abstract

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are essential catalysts for economic expansion and employment generation in local communities. Nonetheless, their elevated failure rate presents a considerable risk to economic sustainability. This study examines the fundamental difficulties leading to SME failures in the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality (SPLM) in the Northern Cape, South Africa, and analyses viable ways to improve their sustainability and growth. Data were gathered using a qualitative research approach through semi-structured interviews with 15 SME owners recruited via non-probability sampling. Thematic study, utilising ATLAS.ti software, identified multiple persistent challenges encountered by SMEs in the region. These encompass restricted access to technology, deficient infrastructure, financial limitations, poor training, elevated unemployment, constrained market access, and safety issues. Factors like delayed payments, political meddling, unfair competition, the repercussions of the Covid-19 outbreak, and insufficient mentorship further impede SME development. The study assessed current government support channels, highlighting their benefits and deficiencies. The findings highlight the necessity for focused policy interventions, capacity-building measures, and enhanced support structures to bolster the resilience and long-term sustainability of SMEs in SPLM. Key Words:Sol Plaatje Municipality, SME Challenges, Government Intervention, Failure rate, Sustainability.

Suggested Citation

  • Dikeledi Betty Nkoe & Ntsieni Fitzgerald Ramasimu, 2025. "The challenges and government support for SMEs at Sol Plaatje Municipality in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa," International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science (2147-4478), Center for the Strategic Studies in Business and Finance, vol. 14(5), pages 52-62, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:rbs:ijbrss:v:14:y:2025:i:5:p:52-62
    DOI: 10.20525/ijrbs.v14i5.4131
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