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Coega Joins Eastern Cape Provincial Women’s Day Celebration in Koukamma

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On Friday 9 August 2024, the Coega Development Corporation (Coega) partnered with the Eastern Cape Provincial Government to commemorate and celebrate Women’s Day 2024 at the Misgund Primary School sports ground in Koukamma Municipality. Under the leadership of the Eastern Cape Premier, Honourable Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, and the MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) Honourable Nonkqubela Pieters, the occasion was centered on advancing gender equality and economic empowerment in line with the theme: “Count her in: Accelerating Gender Equality through Economic Development,” says Dr. Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega’s Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications.

The Honourable Premier Mabuyane emphasised the reason behind this Women’s Day commemoration: “Women are the pillars of our communities, playing vital roles in nurturing families, driving businesses, leading in government, and spearheading community initiatives. Today, we pay homage to the trailblazers who have paved the way for progress and to those who continue to advocate for equality, justice, and peace.”

The event was a showcase and exhibition of the respective Eastern Cape Government initiatives aimed at empowering women across key economic sectors, which provide valuable resources and support to help drive women’s success in small, medium and micro enterprise (SMME) and entrepreneurship, amongst others.

Coega, as a state entity, took part in the commemoration and celebration by showcasing its Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprise (SMME) Development Programme, providing training and mentorship opportunities for entrepreneurs in the construction sector, in line with its vision of being a leading catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development. Coega continues to foster a supportive environment for women- and youthowned small enterprises through its SMME Development Programme.

During the 2023/24 Financial Year (FY), Coega achieved R1,027 billion in SMME procurement spend, with over R460m allocated to black women- and youth-owned SMMEs to promote sustainable economic participation. Notably, this amounted to a total spend achievement of 69.41% on SMME procurement expenditure, of which 36% was on women-owned businesses (R364,587m). Macroeconomic and social policy advocacy is crucial for the achievement of women’s empowerment and gender equality; and working together with other public and private sector partners can deliver results for women.

Coega’s SMME Development Programme is dedicated to empowering women through equitable opportunities and fostering an inclusive environment for women, particularly in the construction sector. Coega SMME Development Programme Mentor, Mr. Simphiwe Ntlanti, highlighted Coega’s dedication to women empowerment, particularly in the realm of small business. “Our participation in today’s event allowed us to gain valuable insights into the challenges faced by local women. This knowledge will inform our efforts to drive positive change within the community,” said Ntlanti.

As the leading advocate for gender parity and women empowerment, Coega was recognised as the 1st Runner up at the 2022 Standard Bank Top Women Awards in the Category Top Gender-Empowered Organisation: Resources, Construction, and Infrastructure Development. Coega was also recognised as 2nd Runner up in the Category Top Gender-Empowered Organisation: Skills Development. This is a welcomed industry acknowledgement of the work Coega is doing to champion women development.

In conclusion, Coega is committed to fostering a future where women thrive. By investing in SMME development, mentorship, and skills training, we aim to empower women across industries and create lasting change. Our approach to women development is also aligned with the United Nations (UN) Women on Economic Empowerment; and there is a growing body of evidence that shows that gender equality significantly contributes to advancing economies and sustainable development. Working with a variety of partners, our programmes will ensure sustainable women growth and sustainability, concludes Dr. Vilakazi.

All roads lead to Baywest Mall

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In an effort to improve public transport services and enhance accessibility to Baywest Mall, the Nelson Mandela Bay shopping centre officially opened its taxi rank this week.

The Baywest Mall taxi rank, situated outside Entrance 2 on the Lower Ground parking level of this iconic mall, will serve an initial 13 routes to and from different parts of the city.

Baywest Mall Marketing Manager Lindsay Davies said the new routes and taxi rank will enhance accessibility, making it easier for everyone to visit the mall and take advantage of the multitude of shopping, entertainment and employment opportunities it offers.

“Public transport is a key focus area for Baywest Mall to improve access to the mall, its secondary catchment area and for the general development of the city’s Western suburbs. In addition to the taxi routes, Algoa bus also travels to Baywest Mall and Ubers make use of Entrance 4 for pick-ups and drop-offs,” said Davies.

The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) endorsed the new rank with representatives from SANTACO and SANTACO Western Suburbs attending the official Baywest Mall taxi rank opening on Tuesday [August 6].

“We are very excited to be part of the growth of Baywest Mall. In the past we had an effective operational taxi rank at the mall, but in 2020 our operations were reduced, and our rank was not functioning optimally. At the beginning of 2024 we took a decision to revive our operations and from our first meeting with the current management of Baywest Mall we received a warm reception and willingness to support our vision of bringing our clients from across Nelson Mandela Bay to the mall. We, the Nelson Mandela Regional taxi council, thank Baywest management for renovating and upgrading the facilities at the taxi rank,” said Thabiso Gcuze, Chairman of Nelson Mandela Bay regional taxi council.

Racing track opening soon at family-friendly mall

Earlier this year it was announced that Baywest Mall and Hemingways Mall in Buffalo City were under new management after being purchased by Hangar 18 Investments.

“Since taking over Baywest Mall in January 2024, Hangar 18 has been actively developing tenant networks, leasing new spaces and considering strategic ways to fast-track the mall’s appeal to the greater community. Our focus is on creating a family-friendly environment with entertainment options for both children and adults, aiming to expand the mall’s service offerings,” said Davies.

Next month [September] the eagerly awaited opening of a 3 000 sqm entertainment area, Algoa Grand Prix, will further enhance Baywest Mall’s entertainment offering, making it a one-stop family entertainment hub for residents and visitors to Nelson Mandela Bay.

Algoa Grand Prix will be located on the Upper Ground level with access from the Entrance 2 parking area. Adrenaline junkies will be able to race in either the 16 adult or 10 junior go-karts, or share the fun in 3 double go-karts, along the exciting 220m go-kart track.

Algoa Grand Prix will also offer 16-hole putt-putt, Virtual Reality Formula 1 and an indoor two-lane paintball shooting range (a first for the Bay). It promises to be a great venue for birthday parties, team building, and year-end fun.

 The new taxi routes include New Brighton, Njoli, Veeplaas, Kwamagxaki, Kwa-Dwesi, Seyisi, Salamntu, Soweto, Motherwell, Wells Estate, Kamvelihle, Missionvale and Govan Mbeki, Booysen Park, Nkandla, Westville, Korsten and Town. Should there be any areas not listed, the local community is encouraged to request these areas be added to the taxi routes by contacting info@baywestmall.co.za or 041 492 0326.

Women leaders slowly emerging in predominantly male dominated sectors as SA marks Women’s Day

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Capable female leaders are gradually emerging in previously male dominated sectors in Nelson Mandela Bay, reaffirming the powerful strides women have made over the decades in re-engineering South Africa’s economic landscape.

As the country commemorates National Women’s Day today (09 August 2024), these advancements highlight the significant progress women have achieved and continue to drive to transcend gender inequalities that have long held them back in taking up spaces in key leadership roles.

On August 9, 1956, more than 20,000 women marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, protesting against the extension of Pass Laws to women. This act of defiance not only highlighted the oppressive apartheid regime but also set in motion a broader movement for gender equality and women's rights.

Every year, South Africa celebrates National Women’s Day to honour those brave women and reflect on the progress made in gender equality. This month long observance also allows the nation to evaluate the ongoing efforts to transform society through addressing and dismantling systemic issues such as gender oppression, patriarchy, sexism and structural inequalities. It also aims to create an environment where women can fully control their lives and destinies socially, politically and economically.

This year’s theme, “Celebrating 30 years of democracy Towards Women’s Development,” is particularly significant as it underscores the critical role that democracy has played in advancing women’s rights and development.

“Over the past three decades, women have increasingly taken on leadership roles in various sectors, including politics, business and civil society, contributing to reshaping the economic and social landscape of the country,” says Denise van Huyssteen, chief executive of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber.

She adds that the theme also serves as a call to action to continue the work of transforming unequal power relations between men and women. Despite the progress, challenges such as gender-based violence, economic inequality and limited access to education and healthcare for women persist.

“As such, the activities throughout August provide an opportunity for South Africa to recommit to addressing these issues and to celebrate the resilience, strength, and achievements of women who have played a crucial role in the nation’s development,” says Van Huyssteen.

With Nelson Mandela Bay being a major hub for the manufacturing and automotive sectors, some of the city’s anchor businesses have made significant strides in appointing fit-for-purpose female leaders in their management teams.

For instance, Volkswagen Group Africa is led by Martina Biene, the first female to occupy the Managing Director and Chairperson roles in the local company’s history. She has been at the helm since 2022 and has 20 years of experience in the VW Group, having worked in Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg and South Africa.

Another formidable force in the manufacturing space is Nomfundo Faltein, the Managing Director of Orion Engineered Carbons, a global specialty chemicals company that manufactures carbon black – a solid form of carbon produced as powder or pellets which serves as an essential material in everyday products.

Faltein has over 20 years of experience in the automotive industry, having worked in all disciplines of Quality Management in manufacturing environments. She joined Orion Engineered Carbons in 2017 as Quality Manager and in 2022, was promoted to her current leadership role.

Borbet SA, one of the world's leading manufacturers of light alloy wheels, appointed Nontlanga Mokoena as Deputy Managing Director in 2021, making her the first African female to sit on the company’s Board of Directors. She joined the company in 2012 as an Assistant Quality Manager and in 2014, was appointed to Quality Manager.

Lisa McDermott, the General Manager at AXALTA PLASCON, is a Chartered Accountant who has occupied key leadership roles in various businesses within manufacturing. She has a robust skill set that includes finance, executive management, team management, mergers and acquisitions, business strategy, and more.

Leading chicken manufacturing company Sovereign’s human resources division is managed by Thuto Maepa, the company’s Group Executive. She has been with Sovereign since 2011 and previously held senior roles in several companies, including Standard Bank.

Another female who occupies a senior leadership position is Pravika Chetty, who was appointed in the position of Finance Director at Lumotech in 2023, a large automotive components manufacturer. An experienced Chartered Accountant, she is the first female director to be appointed at Lumotech and has been with the company since 2019 and has previously held senior roles in other companies, including KPMG.

As a catalyst for economic development in the Metro, the Chamber operates the Entrepreneurship Desk, which currently has 292 businesses registered with it, of which 54% are female-owned and almost 70% are black owned.

Sponsored by Borbet SA and Standard Bank, the Desk acts as a single platform where business support, growth and sustainability initiatives are housed. These are achieved through four pillars namely access to funding and professional banking advice, access to entrepreneurial and business skills development, access to one-on-one advisory support, and market access opportunities.

Van Huyssteen concludes: “As South Africa marks this significant occasion, it is essential to recognise and support the ongoing efforts towards achieving true gender equality. This involves not only celebrating the milestones but also addressing the remaining challenges to ensure that all women have the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the country's growth and prosperity.”

Exporters Eastern Cape explore competitive opportunities in logistics

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In the new era of business, there are two critical matters to contend with: the Green Revolution and the Digital Revolution. This was the opening remarks made by Dr Randall Jonas, Business Strategist and Senior Researcher at EU GMSE Skills, during a panel discussion recently hosted by Exporters Eastern Cape.

Facilitating the panel discussion on enhancing the competitiveness of exporters and their value chains, Jonas noted that the South African freight and logistics market, currently valued at 3.79 billion USD, is projected to reach 19.9 billion USD by 2030. The primary growth driver in this market is the courier, express, and parcels sector, fuelled by e-commerce.

Jonas and other panellists focused on a number of critical areas essential for the sustainability of the logistics value chain: green logistics, compliance with the South African Reserve Bank, Transnet’s reform and recovery, technology and smart warehousing.

Lucinda Daniels, Head of Exchange Control for Rand Merchant Bank, discussed the South African Reserve Bank’s shift from a rules-based to a risk-based strategy, which could impact exporters. “This means that compliance in terms of foreign currency trade will become the key responsibility of the exporter, while fostering an ethical culture,” explained Daniels.

Ruan du Toit, Branch Manager at DACHSER South Africa, emphasised the importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors and the use of technology in logistics. He acknowledged that the initial investment in technology is challenging, but the efficiency benefits outweigh the challenges. He also highlighted the importance of data quality, security, and privacy.

“Technology enhances cargo handling and improves tracking and tracing. It also reduces costs by optimising the supply chain. Technology can analyse data, predict risks, and provide proactive actions to mitigate risks or to create contingency plans,” said Du Toit.

Regarding green logistics, Du Toit mentioned several small steps that can be implemented, such as using renewable energy, recycling, offsetting carbon footprints, optimising vehicle maintenance to reduce emissions, consolidating routes, and optimising cargo. “Collaboration and communication with stakeholders are important. Inventory management is critical, and appropriately skilled workers are needed in the industry,” he added.

From Transnet’s perspective, Dr Andrew Shaw, Group Chief Officer of Strategy and Planning, shared the parastatal's new strategy which is focused on the reform and recovery of its ports and rail systems. Repositioning the ports and rail systems is central to this strategy. He explained that Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) and Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) have been separated, with TNPA now having its own board to meet regulatory requirements, performance standards, and licensing conditions, while TPT will focus on infrastructure. “This strategy opens up the possibility for private operators to compete with Transnet and attract private sector investment where expansion is needed,” said Shaw.

To recover the rail network, a similar approach is planned. “Transnet is committed to the reform and recovery plan to drive sustainability,” said Shaw.

He added that due to a decline in available locomotives, decaying port equipment, and a weak maintenance strategy, there is now a strong focus on maintenance and the purchase of new equipment and tugs. To this end, Transnet has appointed a chief operations officer to drive the recovery strategy.

Samantha Dunlop, owner of Selah Trading, addressed the benefits of bonded warehousing for exporters. This offers manufacturers the opportunity to hold imported raw materials and export-ready finished products. She explained that using bonded warehousing assists with just-in-time supply of components and helps avert risks of component shortages. “This concept allows businesses to pull bond goods as needed,” said Dunlop.

Sugan Naidoo, CEO of Titan Cargo, shared best practices on turning adverse situations into positive outcomes. He particularly raised the opportunity of warehousing in strategically located areas, such as state-owned buildings which are often unattended and vacant. Relaying his story, he proudly mentioned the derelict Transnet building near the Cape Town port, which through negotiations with Transnet, he transformed it into a world-class warehouse. “The deal took two years to come to fruition, but today we have a world-class facility,” he said.

Finally, the panellists commented on the volatility of the Rand/Dollar exchange rate and suggested that it might be better to trade in local currencies.

VW Community Trust empowers communities through NPO support

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KARIEGA – The Volkswagen Community Trust proudly announced the disbursement of R800 000 in funding to several registered non-profit organisations (NPOs). These NPOs cover a diverse range of initiatives, including youth development, sports, and social support programmes.

Volkswagen Group Africa Corporate and Government Affairs Director, Nonkqubela Maliza, highlighted the Trust’s dedication to meeting the extensive needs within the community. “The needs in the community are great,” said Maliza. “Requests for support flow in daily from across the country and we believe we can make a significant difference in the communities we support.”

Aligned to the Volkswagen Community Trust strategy, the funded NPOs are committed to contributing to the economic and social progress of the country. “That is why we invest in critical areas such as education, youth development, health, community wellbeing, and the environment. By supporting these organisations, the Community Trust aims to foster positive change and sustainable development within the communities they serve,” Maliza added.

This year’s beneficiaries include Missionvale Care Centre, an NPO established to uplift the community of Missionvale, believing that developing youth can break the cycle of poverty.

Another beneficiary is the Lincoln Mali Leadership Foundation, which aims to develop the next generation of young leaders through sports development, leadership training, youth development, and feeding schemes in informal settlements.

Meanwhile, Uviwe Child and Youth Services received funding to support their education and social support programmes for vulnerable youth in Nelson Mandela Bay’s northern areas.

In Khayamnandi, Despatch, the Foundation Academy Day Care Centre, which caters for children with special needs, was the fourth beneficiary. This funding will support the school in providing for disadvantaged special needs children.

The Qhagqiwa Football Association (QHAFA) focuses on amateur football administration and development in the surrounding areas of Kwa-Nobuhle, Despatch, Rocklands and Kariega. They also work on developing responsible young men and women who can add value to the communities. The funding will assist the organisation in efficiently executing their development programmes.

Lastly, Sakha Amathuba received funding to support their efforts in empowering unemployed youth. The organisation strives to alleviate youth unemployment by providing skills that help youth become employable.

Additional funding was distributed in smaller amounts to various other NPOs, bringing the total number of organisations who received support this year to 40. Maliza noted that registered organisations with a good track record are eligible to apply for funding.

Shanaaz helps in keeping Boardwalk’s heart beating with efficiency and passion

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Executive Secretary, Shanaaz Borman. celebrates more than a decade at The Bay’s Playground.

This year marks 15 years for Shanaaz Borman as Boardwalk Hotel and Casino’s Executive Secretary, during which time she’s played a supporting role to four General Managers as they managed the operations of Boardwalk and its 400-plus employees.

The born-and-bred Gqeberha woman recalled how proud she was to be hired by Sun International to join Boardwalk Casino in 2009 as an Executive Office Administrator. “The interview process and tests were intense, it felt like a huge huge accomplishment. The training also made me feel like I wanted to be part of the team, deeply ingraining a sense of passion and dedication,” said the 43-year-old, who still today does not walk past a piece of paper or glass without picking it up.

As a hospitality business, a large part of her role is focused on customer service. “I deal with complaints that reach our General Manager, Tati Tsunke’s office. This means maintaining composure, being polite and calming the customer down by sorting the problem out. Most people are happy when you come back to them with feedback.” As a wife and mother of two teenage daughters and a five-year-old son, Borman uses these skills in her personal life as well.

Aside from daily administration support and project communication, for the past three years, under Tsunke’s guidance, Borman has also managed Boardwalk’s socio-economic development projects, which are a crucial focus for Sun International and aim to positively impact the community. “I vet, monitor and evaluate the projects while leading the project team and timelines from start to finish. Last year we handed over the Walmer Township Cricket Nets which was my first big project, and we are looking at doing a coaching clinic in the next school holiday. Seeing the smiles on the faces of beneficiaries and knowing we are making a difference in their lives is the most amazing feeling,” she said.

Under Borman’s leadership, Boardwalk last year won four awards at the Eastern Cape Gambling Board CSI Awards for various projects.

“The satisfaction of seeing a project come to fruition from the planning stage to completion has fuelled my passion for studying in this field.” She has completed many learnerships and courses with Sun International over the years such as a Business Administration Course and will study towards a Project Management Diploma next.

“Being part of the changes at Boardwalk over the years has been amazing – when I joined, the hotel had not yet been built. You have to embrace change and go forward with it to get things done.” She recalls working closely on the construction project which included arranging accommodation, flights and even renting and furnishing houses for the consultants. “Over the years I have done it all and had the pleasure of meeting several famous people including various Miss South Africa’s, Saudi princes, and soapie actress Katherine Kelly Lang from The Bold and the Beautiful.

Having worked with three previous General Managers and now Tsunke, Borman said she had been lucky to enjoy good working relationships with all, despite their different leadership styles. “Currently we have a young, dynamic team, and a culture of openness and sharing under Tati, who lets you get the job done in your way while still driving you to achieve.”

In her spare time, she enjoys unplugging while camping at the beach, watching movies, cooking and braaing with her family.

Shanaaz Borman
Shanaaz Borman – the Boardwalk Hotel and Casino’s Executive Secretary.

Coega Hosts Eswatini Delegation for SEZ Benchmarking

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Gqeberha, South Africa, 2 August 2024 – In an effort to unlock Africa’s economic potential and create sustainable jobs, this week, the Coega Development Corporation (Coega) hosted a benchmarking study tour for the eSwatini Investment Promotion Agency to share best practices in Special Economic Zone (SEZ) development and operations.

The visit aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the SEZ model, including a guided tour of the Coega SEZ and an exploration of Coega’s Expansion Strategy. Aligning with the Coega SEZ blueprint, which envisions SEZs as catalysts for industrialisation and regional integration, the tour offered a holistic view of SEZ development, operation and management.

Mr. Theo Hlope, Chairman of the eSwatini Investment Promotion Agency Board, shared their keen interest in learning from Coega’s experience. “We are here with the aim of learning and gaining a comprehensive understanding of the development strategies employed in creating a successful special economic zone. We seek to leverage this knowledge to inform our own efforts in establishing a vibrant economic hub, and to make eSwatini a best thriving investment destination,” said Hlope.

The visit included a comprehensive overview of Coega’s 25-year development journey, its expansion plans, and a detailed exploration of the various SEZ clusters.

Mr. Chuma Mbade, Coega Executive Manager of Business Development: External Infrastructure Programmes, emphasised the pivotal role of SEZs in stimulating economic growth and industrialisation: “This visit follows the R3 billion major investment by Stellantis, solidifying Coega’s position as a leading investment location example. Special economic zones are essential catalysts for economic growth, industrialisation, and development. The insights shared and strategies discussed today will be instrumental in shaping the future of the Eswatini Investment Promotion Agency.”

“Since its inception, the Coega SEZ has emerged as a model of success, demonstrating the power of visionary planning, strategic positioning, and unwavering commitment to drive inclusive economic growth, attract investment, export promotion and manufacturing, and create employment opportunities, while adhering to good corporate governance. Africa’s leading Coega SEZ has become a blueprint for other African nations seeking to replicate its achievements,” added Dr. Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications.

Dr. Siyabonga Simayi, Programme Director for Client Solutions, highlighted the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing, and stated: “Our 25 years of experience have shown the immense value of on-site visits to special economic zones. Collaborative efforts and knowledge exchange are essential for Africa’s progress and development. Coega is committed to working with partners to foster sustainable economic growth and uplift communities across the continent. This engagement is a prime example of how shared knowledge, and joint initiatives can create positive change.”

Honourable Mr. Masiphula Mamba, MP and Chair for the Portfolio Committee for Commerce in eSwatini expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to learn from Coega’s experience, shared: “We are honoured to gain valuable insights that will help us create a thriving SEZ. The knowledge shared here will guide us in creating a business-friendly environment for investment in our region. We would like to develop relations with South Africa in the SEZs model.”

Coega’s flagship Coega Africa Programme has extended its services to African markets including Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Cameroon, Central African Republic, and Senegal, to name but a few. Coega is committed to supporting economic transformation and sustainable growth across the African continent, in line with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“By sharing its expertise and experiences, Coega aims to contribute to the development of a thriving network of SEZs across Africa, unlocking the continent’s economic potential and creating sustainable opportunities for its people,” concluded Dr. Simayi.

Mo Ebrahim: Isuzu’s New Commercial Vehicle Marketing Communications Specialist

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GQEBERHA – ISUZU Motors South Africa (IMSAf) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mo Ebrahim as the new Marketing Communications Specialist for Commercial Vehicles and Aftersales .

“We are excited to welcome Mo to our marketing team,” says Ziphindiwe Ngcobo, Department Executive: Marketing at ISUZU. “His invigorating approach to sales and dealer development, combined with his passion for the automotive industry, makes him the perfect fit for this role. We are confident that Mo will help us strengthen our market presence for Commercial Vehicles (CV) andAftersales through enhancing our communication efforts.”

Mo’s journey in the automotive industry began during his studies at the University of Johannesburg, where his passion for the field led him to switch from IT Management to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management. He joined ISUZU as a graduate trainee under the Commercial Vehicles team. This role exposed him to various functions within sales, including distribution, marketing, sales analytics, and dealer and business development.

His success in sales forecasting led to his assignment as a business partner to the dealer network, supporting truck dealers in achieving their forecasts. Over the past several years, Mo has developed a deep understanding of the market and the forces that influence it through direct work with the dealer network.

In his new role as Commercial Vehicle and Aftersales Marketing Communications Specialist, he intends to leverage his experience to support the dealer network and IMSAf in building a strong, unique market presence. “My goal is to ensure dealers are well-equipped to market themselves in their distinctive regions and to communicate the value of IMSAf’s products and services in a way that fosters lasting customer relationships and genuine brand connection,” he says.

“I am eager to collaborate with my marketing colleagues to ensure that our Customers understand our story and connect deeply with our products and brand. Additionally, I look forward to networking and learning from experienced individuals in the marketing industry,” he adds.

Business Chamber’s Entrepreneurship Desk reaches the 300 milestone

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The Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber’s Entrepreneurship Desk has shown significant growth since its inception just over two years ago, reaching the milestone of 300 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises registered with it.  

“This growth reflects the Desk’s effectiveness in fostering entrepreneurship development and supporting local MSMEs, playing a pivotal role in driving the sustainability of these businesses which ultimately will help stimulate economic activity and job creation in the Bay,” says Denise van Huyssteen, Chamber’s chief executive officer.

“It is pleasing to note that the Desk is now supporting 300 businesses, of which 54% are female owned and almost 70% black owned, and collectively employ over 2000 employees. This diversity underscores the Chamber’s commitment of continuing to drive sustainable, inclusive economic development.”

As a catalyst for enabling the sustainability and growth of the entrepreneurship sector in the Metro, the Chamber’s Entrepreneurship Desk, which is supported by its partners Borbet SA, MTN and Standard Bank, acts as a single platform where business support, growth and sustainability initiatives are housed.  This is achieved through four pillars namely access to funding and professional banking advice, entrepreneurial and business skills development, one on one advisory support, and market access opportunities.

Van Huyssteen says through these comprehensive mechanisms, the Entrepreneurship Desk has become a key cog in fostering a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Some of the Desk’s key interventions include the introduction of the Entrepreneurship Desk Accelerator programme that is designed to strengthen sustainable and competitive MSMEs through identification of financial, management, leadership and compliance gaps and risks, business needs analysis, and positions the MSMEs to be funding ready. The Desk further supports MSMEs with branding and marketing collateral critical for expansion of their market reach; assists MSMEs with expert coaching and mentorship, facilitation of funding, business to business linkages and access to market opportunities.

The Desk has further placed an additional 17 interns with 10 MSMEs registered with it, taking the total number of interns placed in 2024 to 38. Currently, the Desk is in the process of placing an additional 30, taking the 2024 total to 68. This is part of the Chamber’s MSME empowerment strategic priority, while creating job opportunities for unemployed graduates.

“We are grateful to our anchor partner Standard Bank, alongside Borbet SA, and MTN who enable us to have the aforementioned impact, rallying behind our Entrepreneurship Desk interventions,” she concludes.

Standard Bank Eastern Cape’s head of enterprise banking Jonty Bouw says the growth is a confirmation that the collaboration between the Chamber and Standard Bank is starting to yield results in the MSME space.

“The growth is evidence of the confidence MSMEs have in the work being done by the Chamber to support their businesses. There is certainly value-add in the various initiatives and events being run to assist MSME’s in their entrepreneurial journey. This was further confirmed with the successful launch of the Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme earlier this year and the second iteration of the programme to commence at the end of August 2024. Standard Bank is therefore proud to be part of the growth which ultimately contributes to job creation and instilling confidence in the Bay of Opportunity vision.”

Honouring Nelson Mandela’s life Through Education and Community Upliftment

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Gqeberha and Johannesburg, 31 July – ISUZU Motors South Africa (ISUZU) and its partners have joined the world in honouring the legacy of Tata Nelson Mandela with impactful initiatives through its ISUZU CARES; I CARE TOO employee volunteerism program, donating 200 school desks, establishing a garden, painting classrooms, reading and encouraging play.

ISUZU takes advantage of the whole of July to celebrate Nelson Mandela’s life and the values he stood for. This year’s Nelson Mandela International Day was celebrated under the theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity”. Aligning with the theme, ISUZU, in collaboration with Gift of the Givers, donated 100 single desks, 100 double desks, beanies, toiletries, and bulk school stationery to EZ Kabane High School in kwa-Dwesi township, Gqeberha. This donation will enhance the educational environment particularly for the 850 learners from disadvantaged backgrounds and generally boost morale at the school.

Mr. Banele Zondani, Principal at EZ Kabane High School, expressed his gratitude: “We are extremely pleased that ISUZU Motors South Africa and Gift of the Givers have chosen to support our school. The donation of furniture, the planting of seeds, the painting of classrooms and the donation of garden equipment and other essentials will indeed go a long way in restoring dignity and boosting the morale of all those involved with our school.”

ISUZU employees came in numbers to support the event and rolled up their sleeves to establish a legacy vegetable garden to support the school’s feeding scheme. Additionally, the school hall, primarily used for exams, received a makeover with fresh paint and cleaning efforts from the ISUZU team.

Ms Corene Conradie, Gift of the Givers Eastern Cape Project Manager, highlighted the importance of such collaborations: “At Gift of the Givers, we work with like-minded organisations to find sustainable solutions that bring hope and restore dignity to the most vulnerable. We are intentional about making a positive impact in our communities by contributing towards the creation of an environment conducive to the improved education of the disadvantaged. We are inspired by Tata Nelson Mandela’s spirit of Ubuntu and nation-building to make this contribution to EZ Kabane.”

Extending their reach to Johannesburg, ISUZU in partnership with the Glen, Williams Hunt dealership, supported ‘Door of Hope Children’s Mission,’ a home for abandoned and neglected children aged 0-6 years, operating for 25 years in Berea. ISUZU and Williams Hunt dealership donated R100 000 and other essential items to the home. Employees from ISUZU and Williams Hunt spent a fun-filled day with the children, heeding the call to action to recognise their individual power to make an imprint and change the world around them.

Door of Hope Donor Engagement Manager, Ms Kathy Groome expressed her appreciation: “A large number of babies are abandoned every month in Johannesburg, so our work must continue. The timely intervention from ISUZU strengthens our efforts to rescue abandoned babies and give them hope and a future.”

“Community upliftment is at the heart of ISUZU’s corporate social responsibility strategy and is aligned to Tata Madiba’s passion and belief that our children are our greatest treasure. They are our future. Creating an environment that is safe and conducive for children is critical. We strive to make a positive impact in the lives of children because they are our future”, said Mr Lebogang Makoloi, Department Executive Corporate Affairs ISUZU MOTORS South Africa.

ISUZU Motors South Africa’s initiatives this Mandela Month exemplify their commitment to driving education, building community development, and promoting conservation sustainability, honouring the legacy of Nelson Mandela and embodying the true spirit of Ubuntu.