Local enterprises must be incorporated into supply chain - Anglo

"Notably, we have discovered that there are more than enough businesses and individuals in these communities with the entrepreneurial capacity to be successfully incorporated into our supply chain. As a result, we strongly maintain that other corporate companies should also adopt this highly successful strategic approach," Van Rensburg says.

Partnering with suppliers from local communities and developing new businesses will not only create a socially positive impact through creating local jobs, and enhancing skills development and investment in local infrastructure, but also directly benefit corporate companies. Through funding local orders and backing entrepreneurship, a company ensures that its supply chain is more controlled, which subsequently minimises the investment risks. Importantly, it also creates a substantial amount of goodwill among the local community.

Provide support to newcomers

"When procuring locally, one must always bear in mind that many of these suppliers are new to the market and lack the relevant experience to match your company's needs. Therefore, this procurement has to be accompanied by a commitment to maintain these enterprises by providing on-going support in the form of guidance and appropriate funding and payment terms. This will help level the playing field, and create an increased number of sustainable and world-class suppliers," he adds.

Anglo American has long recognised the value of this approach. "Therefore, Zimele's Supply Chain Fund provides access for black-empowered SME's to be included into our company's supply chain. This directive has already generated real economic value to both communities and our company. The success is evident in the fact that in 2011, close to 49% or R64.5 billion of our total available procurement spend was directed to HDSA businesses."

Investment will further SME growth

In a general sense, it is also vital to stimulate economic growth, in order to boost the capacity of small enterprises to be integrated into corporate supply chains. Money which is not being invested in industries, mines, and general infrastructure by corporate companies, should be invested in growing the economy and communities. This will further SME growth, create new markets, and significantly boost employment.

"Ultimately, every corporate company in South Africa should aim to procure locally in their supply chain and develop or create the companies that are able to do so. Committing fully to this directive will make a real difference in furthering economic sustainability and creating a positive legacy for the country," Van Rensburg concludes.