Suzan Nthangeni, Executive Mayor of the Bojanala Platinum District Municipality, presided over the opening ceremony and warmly welcomed guests. She urged the youth and women to capitalise on business opportunities presented by the blue economy and participate in government and small business initiatives. "Cooperatives should overcome fear and demonstrate their ability to thrive in the business world, having surmounted various forms of prejudice, and seize opportunities to fully engage with the mainstream economy while expanding their skills."