In recognition of the potential of Gauteng’s informal economy and the SMME sector’s ability to drive economic growth, the Gauteng Department of Economic Development (GDED), in partnership with Lepharo, the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS), PPC and the IDC, has initiated a certification and incubation programme for township-based brick manufacturers.

This three-year programme is targeted at 21 SMMEs within the Gauteng province.

This programme is a significant milestone in the brick manufacturing industry. It provides a unique opportunity for qualifying SMMEs in the province to make informed decisions that ultimately enable them to produce better quality bricks.

The programme is a catalyst for the growth of local brick manufacturers through product certification, skills development, market linkage and financial assistance to accelerate economic growth.

It will also enable township brick manufacturers to access the public and private sector market opportunities, including the rollout of the government infrastructure projects and the supply into existing private sector retail value chains.