THE BLACK MANAGEMENT FORUM' S (BMF) RESPONSE TO THE STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS

The BMF welcomes the prudent and fiscal discipline that is envisaged in reducing the budget deficit between 3 and 4 % by 2013. While Government's research indicates that job-creation in six priority areas is on the cards; the BMF is of the view that the Financial Services Sector has to be added.

BMF Deputy President Tembakazi Mnyaka says, " the new job-creation fund of 9 billion over the next three years is well-timed, however, BMF would like to emphasise that unemployed youth should be the key beneficiaries of this strategy, given the high figure of unemployment".

Mnyaka added that, "the BMF is also pleased to learn SMMEs will now be paid on time as campaigned by the BMF.  The BMF will also monitor progress and its effects on the sustainability and growth of the SMME sector".

With regard Mining, the BMF asserts that, in line with its strategy, "the creation of the State Owned Mining Company is a step that brings closer the BMFs view that indigenous people need to share in the country's wealth through ownership."

Mnyaka concluded that, "the BMF has been on record in its support in dismantling labour-broking in its current form and the new policy framework for the provision of the public employment services that would be complementary in a regulated temporary employment sector."

Mnyaka also observed that, "The BMF through its Student Chapter structure, welcomes the announcement of the conversion of loans into bursaries for qualifying final year students.  The promise of providing financial relief to students and their families by Government needs to be prioritised in order to curb the escalating unemployment levels among the youth".

Statement issued by the Black Management Forum, February 17 2011

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