Supplier Day at Marakele National Park

Thabazimbi – On Monday, 1 September 2025, Marakele National Park hosted a Supplier Day as part of the SANParks Enterprise and Supplier Development Programme, giving local SMMEs the knowledge and support needed to grow.

Common challenges — such as completing RFQ documents, meeting quality standards, and accessing funding — were addressed, with guidance on pricing, compliance, and preparing competitive quotations. SANParks also highlighted current and upcoming opportunities on its website, encouraging suppliers to bid not only at Marakele but also at other national parks.

The day included the launch of the SANLAM Purchase Order Fund, a zero-interest initiative providing up to R1 million to businesses within 50 km of Marakele, ensuring they can deliver on purchase orders without financial setbacks.

Special thanks went to park manager Koketso Kotsoe, regional finance manager Mzabalazo Khosa, and regional enterprise and supplier development manager Wandisiwe Marhaya, alongside BeeAfrican, I Am an Entrepreneur, and SANParks’ socio-economic team.

This initiative is a meaningful step towards sustainable business growth, strengthening both the local economy and Marakele’s partnerships with the community.