Agreement Mkhari 
By Jannifer Libisi
A major partnership between The Presidency and the Mpumalanga Green Cluster Agency (MGCA) has been launched to support the Just Energy Transition (JET) in Mpumalanga. The initiative aims to boost local economic growth, especially for small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in the green economy.
MGCA CEO Nkosinathi Nkonyane said the agreement is a big step towards reducing carbon emissions and bringing economic, social, and environmental benefits to local communities.
According to MGCA’s communication officer, Gift Mkhatshwa, the partnership will open up funding and support opportunities for SMMEs through the JET Funding Platform. It will also focus on helping communities most affected by the closure of mines and power stations, although exact numbers are not yet available.
“The agreement ensures that green SMME development supports job creation and economic recovery in these high-risk areas,” said Mkhatshwa.
The partnership will also expand the annual SMME Green Innovation Challenge, rewarding businesses with smart, eco-friendly solutions in renewable energy and related sectors. The Presidency will help monitor the progress and ensure the project aligns with national energy goals.
Zanele Mokgotho, a farmer and traditional healer from Witbank, welcomed the partnership. She believes it will improve access to funding and help integrate eco-friendly practices into traditional healing.
“This can help bring traditional healing into the formal system and promote sustainability,” she said.
MGCA also plans to launch a new support programme called the SMME Loop next quarter, which will help green businesses with training, access to technology, and market entry.
“SMMEs need support to succeed in the green economy,” Mokgotho added.
