The SMME sector provides more than 95% of Africa’s workforce1

As a result of the global economic recession most developed and emerging markets are struggling to maintain minimal positive growth, unemployment rates have increased as employers of labour have been forced to downsize their workforce, whilst most developed countries are bearing most of the brunt of the attendant effect of a recession, Africa continues to maintain a growth rate of above 6%. The sustained growth in the continent is as a result of favourable investment condition, which is driven by the continents vibrant Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) sector.

Globally SMMEs have been known to be the bane of any economy’s growth. They alleviate poverty by creating more jobs and better wages. Africa’s Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) are the main drivers’ of income, trade and entrepreneurship in the continent, consequently they should be acknowledged and appreciated given the important role the sector plays in promoting wealth and prosperity in the continent.

As a result, on October 15, 2009, Afrigrowth Institute celebrated the achievements of Africa’s Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) at the Spier Estate, Stellenbosch, Cape Town (South-Africa) during a Conference and Award Ceremony. Mr. Mohammed Salaudeen Anda of Radly & Deen Consult and an Alumnus, of LEAP’s Business Leadership Programme; which is designed to equip business owners who run SMMEs with the skills and tools that are required to effectively and efficiently run organizations that will outlive them, emerged as the 2nd runner up (Young Enterprise Category), following a rigorous selection process involving 30 finalists.

The African SMME Awards, which aims to recognize the success and vitality of the African SMME sector, was established specifically to acknowledge, encourage and celebrate excellence amongst African SMMEs by giving them the opportunity to gain valuable exposure and well-deserved recognition for their global expansion ambitions

In his own words at the Awards ceremony in South Africa “I dedicate the award to the efforts of the entire SMME promoters around the world of which LEAP is a pioneer in Nigeria”

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