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EZEKIEL PHALANA
Standard Bank Group continued to demonstrate its commitment to inclusive economic growth and enterprise development during Day 2 of the Proudly South African Buy Local Summit & Expo 2026.
As a headline sponsor of the summit, Standard Bank played a central role in advancing conversations around localisation, supplier development, and sustainable support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The event brought together key stakeholders from across the public and private sectors to explore practical pathways for strengthening South Africa’s local economy.
Among the notable voices at the summit was Eustace Mashimbye, Chief Executive Officer of Proudly South African, who emphasised the importance of buying local as a catalyst for job creation, industrial growth, and long-term economic resilience.
Also contributing to the discussions was Nokhanyo Ntshingila, Senior Manager for Enterprise and Supplier Development Programmes at Standard Bank South Africa. Ntshingila highlighted the bank’s strategic approach to empowering SMEs through targeted development programmes, access to markets, and financial and non-financial support mechanisms designed to help businesses scale sustainably.
“The growth of SMEs is critical to the future of South Africa’s economy. Through our enterprise and supplier development initiatives, we aim to unlock opportunities for small businesses to participate meaningfully in mainstream value chains,” said Ntshingila.
The expo floor showcased a vibrant array of locally produced goods and services from SMEs across various sectors, including several businesses sponsored by Standard Bank. These enterprises reflected the diversity, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit that underpin South Africa’s economic potential.
Standard Bank’s involvement at the summit reinforces its broader mission to drive inclusive growth by supporting entrepreneurs, fostering partnerships, and enabling access to opportunities within established supply chains.
The Proudly South African Buy Local Summit & Expo continues to serve as a vital platform for collaboration, connecting SMEs with corporates, policymakers, and consumers committed to advancing localisation and building a more resilient economy.
Minister Stella Ndabeni Champions SMME Growth at Proudly SA Buy Local Summit & Expo
At the Proudly South African Buy Local Summit & Expo, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams delivered a compelling and purposeful address that underscored the central role of small businesses in shaping South Africa’s economic future.
Taking to the stage on Day 2 of the summit, Minister Ndabeni-Abrahams highlighted the importance of strengthening the country’s small, medium and micro enterprise (SMME) sector as a catalyst for inclusive growth and sustainable job creation. She emphasised that local businesses are not just contributors to the economy, but are vital drivers of innovation, resilience, and community development.
Her message was clear: South Africa’s economic recovery and long-term prosperity depend on deliberate efforts to support and prioritise locally produced goods and services. She called for stronger collaboration between government, the private sector, and consumers to ensure that localisation moves beyond policy and becomes an everyday practice.
Minister Ndabeni-Abrahams also reinforced the need for improved access to funding, markets, and business development support for entrepreneurs. She acknowledged the challenges faced by SMMEs, including barriers to entry and limited participation in mainstream supply chains, and stressed the importance of creating an enabling environment where small businesses can thrive and scale.
Importantly, she encouraged corporates and institutions to play a more active role in supplier development and inclusive procurement. By integrating SMMEs into value chains, she noted, South Africa can unlock broader economic participation and reduce inequality.
Her contribution resonated strongly with delegates, as it aligned with the broader vision of the summit — to drive localisation as a powerful tool for economic transformation. Through her leadership and advocacy, Minister Ndabeni-Abrahams reaffirmed government’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and building a more inclusive and resilient economy.