Guest

Mr. Neville Andrew, Security Manager for the Coega Development Corporation, delivering a presentation to the South African National Defence College Study Tour delegation on 18 July 2024.

In an insightful opinion piece, Mr. Neville Andrew, Security Manager at the Coega Development Corporation (Coega), emphasises a critical issue facing South Africa: the pervasive threat of crime. Mr. Andrew writes that this issue not only inflicts personal harm on citizens but also poses a significant risk to the country’s economic stability. Crime leads to property loss, infrastructure damage, and increased security costs for both businesses and households, generating an atmosphere of uncertainty that impedes economic progress and diverts resources.

The Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) embodies progress in South Africa, playing a pivotal role in attracting investments and fostering economic prosperity. However, security stands out as a fundamental pillar underpinning its success.

In fact, Coega has adopted a comprehensive strategy that amalgamates traditional security measures with state-of-the-art technology. At the heart of this approach lies the 24/7 Command and Control Centre (C3), staffed by four professionals and overseeing the SEZ through a network of over 500 strategically positioned cameras. Powered by artificial intelligence, the C3 employs biometric technology to mitigate risks in non-SEZ areas, particularly those intersected by national and provincial roads, presenting unique security challenges.

Recognising these obstacles is crucial to formulating effective solutions. The commendable efforts of Coega’s security team involve leveraging data analytics to pinpoint crime hotspots and anticipate potential issues. Collaboration with academic institutions offers the promise of enhancing this capability, paving the way for datadriven strategies in resource allocation and patrol planning.

The future of security lies in embracing innovation. Integrating AI into existing security systems can revolutionise crime prevention. AI-powered video analytics can detect suspicious activity in real-time, triggering alerts and enabling rapid response.

Additionally, implementing drone technology allows for a wider surveillance range and faster response times to incidents.

Combining physical security measures like access control systems and perimeter fencing with advanced technological solutions creates a robust defense.

The road to enhanced security also requires a commitment from all stakeholders. The adage “united we stand, divided we fall” rings true in the context of Coega’s security landscape. Collaboration between the SEZ, law enforcement agencies, private security firms, and the surrounding community is essential. Sharing information, coordinating efforts, and fostering trust are key to proactively addressing threats.

In conclusion, Coega’s security environment cannot be viewed in isolation. By continuing to foster partnerships, understand challenges, harness the power of technology, and prioritise economic security, the SEZ can maintain a secure environment for investors, businesses, and communities alike. This collaborative approach paves the way for a more prosperous and secure future for Coega and South Africa as a whole.

The South African National Defence College has structured its programme’s learning outcomes to include field visits and study tours.

On Thursday, 18 July 2024, in the spirit of Nelson Mandela International Day 2024, the Coega Development Corporation (Coega) joined Columba Leadership, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM), the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE), and the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) to implement a series of environmental initiatives at Vulumzi Senior Secondary School in Motherwell, Gqeberha.

Endorsing the initiatives, the NMBM MMC for Public Health, Mr. Thsonono Buyeye, shared that environmental stewardship is central to the health of people and their communities: “As a Metro, we welcome these collaborative initiatives as we believe they are more fruitful than when stakeholders work in silos. We appreciate the efforts, and we always support such initiatives with all the resources we have including human resources.

In fact, just last month, we actively participated in environmental initiatives aligned with World Environment Month, responding to the devastating floods that affected our city. The impact of those floods is still evident, and the reality of climate change demands that we collectively reassess our synergy with the environment and work together towards a more sustainable future.”

Driven by a shared passion for environmental stewardship and supported by Coega’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) Programme, Coega employees and partners dedicated their time and energy to make a lasting difference for Vulumzi Senior Secondary School and the surrounding community.

Ms. Telly Chauke, Coega’s Chief Sustainability Officer, said: The Coega Development Corporation is very intentional in its approach to stakeholder engagement and forming sustainable partnerships; carefully selecting partners who share our common objectives and to make an impact as a leading catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development. We prioritise collaborations that align with our goals, particularly in the education sector, where we focus on long-term relationships with schools to influence the
choices of young people in their academic and professional pursuits. By sharing knowledge and resources, we empower communities to achieve sustainable growth.

Our partnership with Columba, for instance, concentrates on leadership development and sustainability, which are core priorities for us. By measuring the impact of our relationships, we aim to create a positive influence on our children and the community where we have an operational footprint in the region. To achieve this, we engage in consultations with various stakeholders to ensure a collective approach to creating a deep and lasting impact.

The establishment of a sustainable food garden, the planting of indigenous and fruits trees, a waste management system, and comprehensive community clean-up outside of the school premises were the culmination of tireless efforts by all stakeholders involved. These impactful initiatives directly support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 (Zero Hunger), 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

DRDAR representative, Bongani Gocina shared that after a week of dedicated preparation prior to Mandela Day, the collaboration between Coega, Columba, NMBM, DFFE, and DRDAR yielded impressive results.

“This initiative aligns perfectly with this year’s theme: ‘It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality.’ We planted a food garden that will not only provide sustenance to the community but also teach people that they can make a difference. We were also able to create a sustainable smart agricultural garden based on conservation agriculture, which mitigates against climate change by using cover crops, crop rotation, and minimum soil tillage. These are some of the strategies, which we advise to our farming communities as agricultural advisors to be assured communities are resilient and food secured.”

Vulumzi SSS Principal, Mr. Mzimkhulu Fina, expressed his gratitude: “On behalf of the school, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the stakeholders involved in implementing these environmental initiatives at our school. Your dedication to environmental stewardship and community development is truly inspiring, and we are grateful for the positive impact it will have on our learners and the surrounding community.”

Mandela Day 2024 underscores the significance of partnership in building a more equitable and sustainable future, where environmental stewardship and community development converge.

“As we reflect on the legacy of Nelson Mandela, we are inspired to continue striving for a world that is more just, peaceful, and prosperous for all. Through our continued collective actions, we can create a brighter future, where the principles of sustainability, social responsibility, and community empowerment are upheld,” concluded Ms. Chauke.

As South Africa commemorates Nelson Mandela Month 2024, the Coega Development Corporation (Coega) is turning its focus inward. Inspired by the theme: It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality, Coega is implementing sustainable interventions designed to strengthen the environmental management of its Special Economic Zone (SEZ), to promote the spirit of good citizenship and make a lasting impact in local communities.

Driven by its Corporate Social Investment (CSI) Programme, Coega has partnered with Columba Leadership, the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBM), the national Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) and the Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR), to establish a food garden and sustainable waste management initiative at Vulumzi Senior Secondary School in Motherwell, Gqeberha.

The initiative calls on employees and stakeholders to volunteer their time and efforts on 18 July, aligning with Coega’s CSI objectives to drive social change and shared value, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 (Zero Hunger), 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing), and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Coega is also revisiting its Mandela Month 2023 Garden Project at the Door of Hope Children’s Home to initiate a sustainability mentorship programme for the upkeep of its climate-resilient garden.

Ms. Telly Chauke, Coega’s Chief Sustainability Officer explains that this year’s initiative prioritises awareness and volunteerism in critical areas of food security, waste beneficiation, and environmental education.

“At the core of sustainability, is a commitment to a healthy planet and a just society. Volunteerism is the heart of that commitment. When volunteers lend their time and skills to environmental projects, community or school gardens, and educational initiatives, they become the driving force behind positive change. In Coega’s sustainability efforts, volunteers amplify our impact and inspire others to join the movement for a sustainable future,” says Chauke.

Coega’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond Mandela Month. By initiating these projects, Coega aims to create a lasting impact that fosters long-term partnerships for environmental and social wellbeing amongst employees and community members.

Coega’s Executive Manager for Corporate Services, Ms. Mokgaetsi Sebothoma, explains that employee volunteerism is an important element in Coega’s 2024 Mandela Month approach.

“In the spirit of Nelson Mandela, even the smallest act of volunteerism from our employees can create a ripple effect of positive change. By coming together on Mandela Day, we can amplify our impact and build a more equitable society while creating an opportunity for our employees to contribute in a meaningful way beyond being employed to earn a living, just as Madiba himself envisioned. Acts like these give us and our employees a sense of purpose in our work,” says Sebothoma.

Aligned with its commitment to shared value and its vision as a leading catalyst for socioeconomic development, Coega actively partners with like-minded organisations. This collaborative approach facilitates the sharing of knowledge and resources, ultimately empowering communities to achieve sustainable growth.

Ms. Asanda Njobe, Provincial Manager at the Columba Leadership development organisation and Coega’s sustainability partner, urges young leaders to embrace servant leadership in their schools and communities.

“Our value of service emphasises the importance of selflessly sharing resources and utilising our strengths and expertise to drive meaningful action and contribute to the greater good. Our collaboration with Coega and other organisations will enable us to create a sustainable and supportive environment for the schools and young people we serve,” says Njobe.

Recognising the vital link between environmental sustainability and economic development, Coega is harnessing the spirit of Mandela Month 2024 with impactful sustainable initiatives. These initiatives not only honour Mandela’s legacy of social justice and environmental stewardship, but also pave the way for a thriving future in the surrounding community.

“By fostering local partnerships and promoting volunteerism, Coega aims to create a lasting positive impact that extends far beyond the month of July. This dedication to longterm sustainability ensures a healthier environment, a more empowered and engaged workforce, and a brighter future for generations to come,” concludes Chauke.

The Coega Development Corporation, developer, and operator of Africa’s leading 9003ha Coega Special Economic Zone, a hive of activity and a beacon of hope for the region, is a 3(d) registered public entity, located in the city of Gqeberha.

The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) congratulates the Republic of South Africa’s 7th Administration announced by His Excellency, President Cyril Ramaphosa, on 30 June 2024. As a 3(d) registered public entity, wholly owned by the Eastern Cape Provincial Government, Coega looks forward to the continuation of its work as the leading Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Southern Africa, and a catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development in alignment with the objectives of the National Development Plan Vision 2030 and National Infrastructure Plan 2050.

“Coega has maintained positive and collaborative partnerships with government departments and other state-owned entities and remains committed to advancing socio-economic development in the region and beyond. We extend a heartfelt congratulations to the 7thAdministration, as we look forward to strengthening partnerships in attracting global investment to the country and Eastern Cape province to contribute towards socio-economic development,” says Dr. Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega’s Unit Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications.

Coega’s vision to be the leading catalyst for the champioining of socio-economic development is also achieved through its excellence in infrastructure development based on 25 years’ project management expertise, the development and operation of Africa’s leading 9 003-hectare Coega
SEZ, and advisory on the development of industrialisation and logistics zones across Africa. As an ethical, responsible and progressive public entity, the foundational culture of Coega’s approach is innovation and continuous improvement, backed by its core values of integrity, innovation, partnership, service excellence, and sustainability.

In terms of job creation and economic growth, as of 31 March 2024, Coega has attracted a total of 60 operational investors in the Coega SEZ (up from 58 last year) that employ 10,154 people, which is a significant achievement for Coega, given the challenge of unemployment in the region.

Regarding its Non-SEZ Infrastructure Programme, Coega has successfully implemented mega infrastructure projects throughout the country, deepening state capacity for service delivery and enabling inclusive growth and socio-economic development, as a trusted infrastructure Implementing Agent of Choice. This is also aligned with the objectives of the South African Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP), particularly to build a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive economy. Furthermore, Coega has demonstrated its capability to deliver mega infrastructure development and maintenance projects within scope, budget, timeframes, and quality.

Coega’s dedication to service excellence and professional standards also ensures that every project leaves a lasting and positive impact on society and small businesses. Furthermore, Coega has a proven track record of clean governance and compliance and achieved a clean audit for the past four consecutive years, by the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA).

“Coega takes immense pride in its work as a leading SEZ and a trusted infrastructure Implementing Agent of Choice in South Africa, enriching the lives of communities. For 25 years, Coega projects stand as a testament to our commitment to advancing the improvement of infrastructure and cultivating environments conducive to investment and socio-economic development,” concludes Dr. Vilakazi.