MATATIELE — The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has registered 16 South African-owned businesses in Matatiele free of charge. The initiative forms part of the party’s campaign to support local spaza shop owners and small businesses.
The EFF says all 16 businesses have already received their South African Revenue Service (SARS) tax certificates. The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) will issue the remaining business registration documents within the next 24 hours.
The campaign helps local entrepreneurs formalise their businesses. As a result, registered businesses can improve their chances of accessing government support programmes and funding opportunities.
Furthermore, the EFF targets South African-owned spaza shops operating in Matatiele. The party also provides assistance with business licensing and applications linked to the government’s R500 million Spaza Shop Fund.
EFF mayoral candidate and Member of Parliament Babalwa Mathulelwa leads the campaign. She has encouraged business owners who have already applied for funding to submit their application reference numbers for further assistance.
Meanwhile, the EFF says the registration drive forms part of a broader effort to support township and rural economic development. The party has launched the initiative ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
At this stage, the EFF has not announced plans for similar registration drives in other areas of the Alfred Nzo District Municipality.
