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Business collaboration in Neave Industrial Park and Korsten makes sweeping changes in the area

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Businesses in Neave Industrial Park and Korsten are spearheading a clean-up initiative to enhance the area’s aesthetic value, led by the Neave Korsten Cluster’s Henry Bennett Project. The initiative aims to address service delivery challenges in the Neave Industrial and Korsten areas, specifically focusing on Bennette Street and Henry Ford Road.

The cluster has partnered with MES (Mould Empower Serve), a social development organisation dedicated to providing sustainable solutions to poverty in urban areas like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Nelson Mandela Bay, and Kempton Park. MES runs the GROW programme, which empowers and rehabilitates the homeless by offering food, shelter, social work services, and job opportunities.

Initially started as a trial, the Henry Bennett Project has grown from involving four businesses to nine, with the goal of expanding to other areas within Neave Industrial and Korsten. The MES team has established a structured clean-up and maintenance plan that includes daily and weekly tasks such as verge cleaning, weed spraying, pothole repairs, road marking painting, and bollard replacement.

Project Coordinator for the Henry Bennet Project, James Flanagan, emphasises the project’s potential for expansion and its positive impact on the community. Two permanent employees in Neave Industrial Park, who progressed through the GROW programme, are now employed by CPG Equipment, a local supplier of wheel servicing, brake, lifting, compressor, and air conditioning equipment to fitment centres in South Africa and beyond.

“The project was created on a trial basis in the area and the Cluster’s goal is to eventually replicate it in other areas within North End. Initially, the project started with only four businesses and the number has reached nine and counting. The MES team has established a daily and weekly clean up and maintenance plan focusing on the verges, weed spraying, covering potholes, painting of road markings, removing and replacing bollards,” says Flanagan.

Freek Myburgh, the founder and owner of CPG Equipment, got involved with the programme after learning about MES’s work in the Metro. He highlights the opportunity it provides for individuals to prove their worth, work hard, and transition from the MES programme to independent living, thereby rebuilding their lives.

“I immediately got in touch with the team to see how we can assist. As such, we have two guys who now work for us and this has provided them with an opportunity to prove their worth, to work hard and to not simply give up. This also gives them a chance to move out of the MES programme and become independent as they rebuild their lives,” says Myburgh.

This initiative not only enhances the visual appeal of Neave Industrial Park but also fosters community development and empowerment through sustainable employment and rehabilitation efforts.

The Chamber’s Geographic Cluster Lead Paola Horak also highlighted the importance of the Henry Bennet Project and especially the collaboration with MES as an excellent example of good leaders who take ownership of the problems and collaborate to find solutions by harnessing synergies and taking positive action.

“Replication of this success story across the business clusters is key to resurging Nelson Mandela Bay,” says Horak.

Neave Korsten Cluster
James Flanagan (Project Coordinator – Henry Bennet project) pictured with some of the team members from MES and Keith Prinsloo (Chairperson – Neave Korsten Cluster).

SA Agulhas II Open Day Inspires

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The Coega Development Corporation’s (Coega) Maths and Science Programme (MSP) learners participated in the SA Agulhas II Open Day at the Port of the Port Elizabeth this past weekend. The impressive event, hosted by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and Transnet, provided a unique opportunity for attendees to acquaint themselves with South Africa’s polar research vessel and learn about career opportunities in the maritime sector.

DFFE Head of Communication, Mr. Peter Mbelengwa, described the event as one of the largest and most well-attended maritime education events in the country: “We are so happy with the outcome, and proud to have had active participation from entities like Coega. The SA Agulhas II is a state-of-the-art Polar Research and Supply vessel that services three research bases in Antarctica, Marion, and Gough Islands. It plays a crucial role in supporting the country’s research. Through this event, DFFE aimed to foster a deeper understanding of the critical role that the marine sector plays in shaping our country’s future, and to encourage learners to pursue related careers.”

During the event, the Coega MSP team showcased MSP achievements and shared information about Coega’s expertise in the maritime sector. Five MSP learners were given an exclusive opportunity to board the SA Agulhas II, gaining exposure that aligns with the MSP’s long-term aim of inspiring learners to pursue careers in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

“Following our successful engagement at the Nelson Mandela University Open Day, we recognised the significance of providing learners with opportunities to explore various fields and interact with professionals in their desired fields,” said Coega’s Corporate Social Investment Manager, Ms. Sylvia Graham.

Coega’s involvement in the event demonstrates the organisation’s vision of being a leading catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development.

“As part of our commitment to supporting Coega’s CSI programme, which prioritises socio-economic development through education and skills development initiatives, we offered interested learners an opportunity to gain valuable insight into the world of maritime research while interacting with scientists and experiencing the state-of-the-art facilities on board the SA Agulhas II,” continued Graham.

Coega MSP Learner, Olwakhe Sentiwe (18) from Kwazakhele, shared: “I’m grateful to have experienced the SA Agulhas II Open Day. It was truly an eye-opening experience, and I am now more determined to pursue my career in STEM. Thank you to Coega for providing me with this opportunity and for ongoing support throughout our MSP journey.”

“As the Coega MSP learners commence their exams this week, the organisation wishes them the best of luck and we are confident that our programme will continue to make a positive impact on their lives and contribute towards the STEM agenda,” concluded Graham.

Manie Libbok Partners With First Choice High Protein Recovery

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Woodlands Dairy, creators of the award-winning First Choice High Protein Recovery (HPR), is thrilled to announce an exciting partnership with Springbok and Stormers rugby player Manie Libbok from the Eastern Cape.

High-Protein Recovery is scientifically formulated to facilitate rapid muscle recovery for both elite and amateur athletes following intense workouts or competition. Extended exercise depletes energy stores, leading to fatigue and decreased performance. To counteract this, it is important to consume a snack or beverage that provides protein to aid muscle recovery, carbohydrates to replenish energy stores, and help combat fatigue. Research indicates that consuming a drink such as HPR after exercise can assist in fluid retention, glycogen replenishment, and muscle recovery. Milk protein contains whey and casein, both aiding muscle repair but in different time frames—whey acts quickly, while casein acts more slowly.

Says Libbok, “Being a professional rugby player, I’ve always been passionate about optimising performance and recovery. When I discovered First Choice HPR and learned about its high-quality ingredients and proven benefits, I was immediately drawn to the opportunity to represent a product that aligns so closely with my values and goals as an athlete.”

HPR offers a convenient and effective way to support muscle recovery after intense training sessions or matches. Libbok adds that it holds true particularly for rugby players. “There have been numerous occasions where I relied on HPR to recover quickly between training sessions or matches. Whether it’s a challenging practice session or a physically demanding game, HPR has consistently been my choice to replenish my body’s protein stores and support optimal recovery, enabling me to come back stronger for the next challenge.”

He takes pride in his association with the brand. “I grew up in Humansdorp in the Eastern Cape where Woodlands Dairy is based. They feel like family and do excellent work in our community. I look forward to authentically incorporating the product into my daily routine and sharing my genuine experiences with it through various channels, including social media, interviews, and personal appearances. By showcasing how HPR supports my training and performance goals, I hope to inspire others to discover its benefits for themselves. It reflects my commitment to excellence and empowers others to elevate their fitness and recovery,” he adds.

His message to fans and fellow athletes is straightforward yet crucial: proper recovery is essential for achieving peak performance and long-term success in sports. “By integrating HPR into their recovery routine, athletes can enhance their performance, reduce the risk of injury, and stay at the top of their game.”

Marisa Maccaferri, Marketing Executive for Woodlands Dairy and First Choice, emphasises that as a business and a brand, they are always seeking relevant collaboration opportunities. “We aim to partner with exceptional, locally grown talent from the Eastern Cape and the fact that Manie is from Humansdorp make him a perfect fit for us. Just like HPR, he is a successful with a bright and promising future, and we are proud of our partnership. South Africans are passionate about sports and invest considerable time and resources in their favourite disciplines. Our product has proven itself as a gamechanger. It’s ready to drink, affordable and safe for consumption by individuals of all ages. Over the past few years, we have supported professional and amateur athletes in achieving their fitness goals and excelling in their performance. Often, the difference between good and great lies in what you fuel your body with. Both he and our brand will benefit and grow through this collaboration.”

HPR boasts over twice the protein content of regular milk and is fortified with eight additional B vitamins. It is rich in calcium, energy, and free from Tartrazine. HPR comes ready to drink—no powders or mixing required—using only high-quality ingredients, notably locally sourced milk from predominantly pasture-fed cows.

With a selection of five flavours available, including Chocolate, Peanut Butter, Banana CreÌme, Strawberry Vanilla, and Chocolate Mint, High Protein Recovery can be purchased at selected Dischem stores nationwide, as well as online at www.shopfirstchoice.co.za or https://recoverymilk.co.za/.

Woodlands Dairy leads in sustainability, and HPR provides the added benefit and peace of mind knowing that the packaging is partially made from plant-based materials like sugarcane and board sourced from sustainably managed forests, making it 100% recyclable.

Algoa FM: Presenter Line-Up Changes

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Algoa FM continues to strengthen its on-air line-up in order to connect more closely with its Eastern Cape and Garden Route audience.

Well-known SuperSport anchor Sam Ludidi has joined the station to present Sunday Lunch LIVE from the Algoa FM’s Hemingways studio in East London.

Ludidi, who lives in East London and works as a property developer, received critical acclaim for his studio work for SuperSport during the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

He decided at the age of 15 that he wanted to work in the media after listening to cricket commentary in the car with his father.

Ludidi’s father’s response when he said he wanted to be on air was “so then, do it”.

“So that is what I did,” says Ludidi.

“I’m an energetic ball of optimism, always seeing the glass as half full, with a laugh that apparently rules them all!
“I love my sport. I eat sleep and breathe it, but what I love more is to connect with people and be a positive impact in their lives,” he adds.

“As a proud Eastern Cape business, we are delighted to have Sam on board,” says Algoa FM managing director Alfie Jay.
Ludidi’s radio experience started while studying communications at the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein, first as a presenter and later, as programme manager of KovsieFM.

He graduated to commercial radio in 2019 as breakfast sport anchor and Saturday chart show host on Algoa FM’s sister station, OFM.

Carly Fields, who joined Algoa FM in March 2023, will now be on air six days a week, taking the early morning five to six am slot to help early risers prepare for the day ahead, and entertain shift workers.

She also presents the popular Carly on Algoa FM on Saturdays from seven to 10 in the evening.

Fields made her broadcasting debut on YOTV in 1996, followed by award-winning stints on radio.

Eastern Cape-born and raised Mandisa Magwaxaza has taken over Carly’s Friday evening show between 10 pm and 2 am Saturday mornings, while retaining her show in the same time slot on Saturday nights.

“Listeners are connecting well with Carly and Mandisa and we wanted to find a way to give both more airtime while fitting into their busy off-air schedules,” says Jay.

Algoa FM is also investing in new talent.

“We have identified two young locals who will be put through their paces as we help them develop their natural talents,” says Jay.

Mark Kolesky and Twaibu (Twai) Mamuss will be mentored by programme manager Mio Khondleka and other seasoned Algoa FM professionals “to hone their skills and to help them learn the Algoa FM way of doing things,” says Jay.

They will cut their presentation teeth on Algoa FM Hit Mobiles, which take the station to the public.

Listeners will also be able to join them between two and five am during weekdays and from two am to six am over weekends once they are ready.

“As they grow into polished Algoa FM presenters, they will be given the opportunity to stand in for our regular presenters,” says Jay.

Volkswagen enhances technical learning experience at Kariega high school

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The nature of work is evolving rapidly, with many traditional jobs being automated or augmented by technology. To equip the next generation with the skills they need to thrive in the digital age, it is imperative that technology and automation are introduced in the classroom.

Daniel Pienaar Technical High School in Kariega typifies this transition to technology and the inclusion of automation and robotics. Supporting the school in its mission to meet 21st-century skills demand, Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has donated a refurbished automation cell for learning purposes. The cell consists of two Kuka robots (16 kg

workload), two control panels, two pendants, one gripper and attachment, teaching equipment, safety fencing (wire mesh), basic safety and automation training and electrical drawings.

To ensure the equipment is installed, programmed and protected, VWGA Body Shop planning team worked with local partners which include Rubicon (power solutions), Robot Technologies of South Africa (robotics), KDA (automation), Siemens (technology) and EME (electrical and mechanical installations).

Bernd Schaberg, Head of Production Planning at VWGA, emphasised the need for careers in automation. “About 17 years ago, VWGA Body Shop operated with about 30% automation; in 2024, this number has increased to 70%. An increase in automation in operations means an increase in the skills required to operate and maintain new equipment,” Schaberg said.

Schaberg commended the school for embracing technology which encourages problem-solving and enhances technical abilities.

Daniel Pienaar Technical High School principal Kola du Toit said teaching technology and automation in high school empowers learners with the foundational knowledge and digital literacy skills they need to navigate the dynamic job market with confidence. “When our learners see new equipment in the classroom, they get excited. The new cell will give them perspective on what to expect in industry once they leave high school,” said Du Toit.

Daniel Pienaar Technical High School has 1 000 learners and offers a qualification equivalent to a Further Education and Training college N3, focusing on electrical disciplines. Du Toit said there is a need for technical training, but there seems to be a stigma attached to learners who pursue vocational careers. “In fact, there is a perception that learners who study at technical schools or Further Education and Training Colleges are lesser educated than university graduates, yet with Mathematics and Science as prerequisite subjects in the technical field and require the same level of logic and critical thinking as academic careers.”

With a demand for technical skills in industry, technology and automation are not just tools for performing routine tasks—they are engines of innovation that drive progress and change. “By exposing our high school learners to these concepts early on, we cultivate their curiosity, spark their creativity, and inspire them to think critically,” Du Toit added.

Maths and Science Programme Learners Explore University Life

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Gqeberha, South Africa, 16 May 2024 – The Coega Development Corporation’s (Coega) Maths and Science Programme (MSP) Class of 2024 explored the ins and outs of university life at the Nelson Mandela University’s (NMU) Open Day held at the Missionvale Campus in Gqeberha, this past weekend. The Coega MSP is a fully funded Corporate Social

Investment (CSI) initiative that enables learners to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) by improving their matric Mathematics and Physical Science results.

NMU’s Marketing and Events Specialist, Ms. Nosithembele Mrara, described the Open Day as an opportunity to empower learners through knowledge sharing: “NMU wants to make sure that no learner is left behind. The Open Day allows students to make informed decisions about their future academic pursuits, by sharing important information about the university’s academic offerings, campus life and application process. All faculties and service departments are here,” explained Mrara.

Coega MSP Learner from Wells Estate, Liyabona Ntontela (19) who attended the event, shared her thoughts on the experience: “I am truly grateful for the opportunity I had to attend the NMU Open Day, where I had a fascinating experience and had all my questions answered about the qualification I am interested in. Now, I’m feeling inspired and hopeful that I will be accepted to study Quantity Surveying at NMU next year.”

Coega’s CSI Manager, Ms. Sylvia Graham, explained the reason for encouraging the learners to attend the Open Day: “Our Maths and Science Programme is dedicated to promoting education and skills development, and we knew that this experience would inspire and motivate our learners to pursue their academic interests and career aspirations with confidence and enthusiasm.

The Coega MSP offers learners a second chance to pursue STEM careers, but the end goal should not be an afterthought. The valuable insight and immersive experience into academic programmes at the Open Day places them in good stead to plan for their future at university,” continued Graham.

Since its inception in 2013, the Coega MSP has benefited over 1,000 learners, providing them with necessary skills and knowledge to pursue STEM related qualifications at tertiary institutions. This achievement exemplifies Coega’s dedication to its CSI Programme, which prioritises community development and socio-economic development through education and skills development initiatives.

“Coega is committed to supporting the development of future leaders in STEM fields and is proud to have been part of the NMU Open Day 2024. Through this initiative, the Coega MSP aims to continue motivating learners to pursue their academic interests in line with Coega’s vision of being a leading catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development,” concluded Graham.

Stellantis Forges Ahead With Coega Plant

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The final building blocks for the establishment of South Africa’s latest automotive manufacturing site have been laid, paving the way for construction to begin shortly at the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay the Eastern Cape.

Stellantis, the world’s third biggest automotive manufacturer by volume, and South Africa’s largest development funder, the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) have concluded key milestones that will lead to a Joint Venture (JV). The investment estimated at R3-billion is expected to facilitate the creation of massive employment opportunities in the Eastern Cape. The Coega Development Corporation (CDC), which is supplying the ground on which the factory will be built, has begun preparing the site for the start of construction.

“I welcome the progress made with concluding all modalities with Stellantis that will enable construction to commence this year and start of production of a new auto model to roll off the assembly-line by the end of 2025. The SA auto industry is Africa’s largest producer of cars, bakkies and trucks and this new investment by Stellantis will consolidate the country’s position, helping us to achieve the goal of producing 1, 4 million vehicles by 2035. The biggest attractions for new investors are the size of the domestic market together with the auto industry masterplan, which supports local production for both South Africa and export markets. Stellantis has a strong growth vision with an excellent range of vehicles in its global stable and we look forward through this investment to increasing the range of locally manufactured cars available to motorists,” said Ebrahim Patel, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition.

“It’s heartening to see the manner in which the combination of expertise within the collective of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), the IDC, CDC and Stellantis have united to form a cross functional team that is making excellent progress,” said Minister Patel “It’s this teamwork that will realise not only having Stellantis as SA’s eighth OEM, but most importantly in realizing the plans for employment and investment in South Africa and support our industrialisation drive. We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship between Stellantis and South Africa.”

Stellantis Middle East Africa (MEA) COO, Samir Cherfan; Stellantis SA MD Mike Whitfield; IDC interim CEO David Jarvis; including CDC Acting CEO Themba Khoza echoed Patel’s sentiment stating that the progress made thus far was in line with their respective organisation’s strategic development goals.

“The construction of this plant is critical to Stellantis’s Dare Forward 2030 strategy. This strategy also speaks to the South African industrialization plan which is a very important tool in helping us achieve our target to produce a million units in the MEA region by 2030 – a factor that will help us attain 22% market share in this region. Our medium to long-ter objective is to ensure that 90% of vehicles sold in the MEA region are sourced from our production plants in this region,” said Mr Cherfan.

The project is a major vote of confidence in South Africa as an investment destination and as a gateway into Africa. “We are very proud of being involved in this; the construction o this plant is a major statement of faith in this country and the capacity of South Africans to be entrusted with running a project of this magnitude. This is a factory of which we can all be proud of, not just because of what it will represent to the people of the Eastern Cape, but also because of the technological advances that it will incorporate and the environmentally conscious way that it has been planned, will be built and will be operated.” Cherfan added.

All fauna and flora have been successfully removed from the site and rehomed as per the environmental impact study conducted by Coega. “Coega is focused on delivering the finest plant for Stellantis, reinforcing the Coega SEZ as an automotive hub in the country, in line with its vision to be the leading catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development” said Coega Acting CEO Themba Koza. The impending construction of the Stellantis factory has acted as a catalyst to other investors, he said. “We have had numerous requests to support the automotive sector in Coega and to rapidly grow our planned supplier park.”

“The new company to house the Stellantis-IDC JV is on track to be registered. The milestones concluded thus far will help to kick start a project that will significantly improve the economic fortunes of the Eastern Cape,” said IDC’s Jarvis. He added that the IDC is pleased to be partnering with such a reputable automotive manufacturing company of Stellantis’s stature. “Stellantis’s success with other manufacturing plants around the world is well-known. Together, we are highlighting the IDC’s intent to continually participate and drive investment to develop the regional automobile value chain,” Jarvis commented.

The Stellantis Greenfield project in brief:

  • It will be built in a South African Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Coega, situated near Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa.
  • Construction will be completed by the end of 2025.
  • A high level of localization is targeted at launch (35%)
  • Ultimate production volume of 50 000 units a year, with the majority destined for export
  • 1 000 new jobs to be created directly
  • Thousands of hours to be invested in training to develop local teams to global standards

Celebrating 60 Years of ISUZU Trucks

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Gqeberha, May 2024 – Six decades ago, ISUZU Trucks began its journey in South Africa with a simple yet powerful vision: to provide reliable, durable, and innovative commercial vehicles to meet the evolving needs of businesses across the nation. As we celebrate our 60th anniversary of truck, we reflect on a rich history filled with milestones, achievements, excellence, and a steadfast commitment to offer transport solutions to large fleets and single-unit operators alike.

Since our inception, ISUZU Trucks has been synonymous with quality and performance. We entered the South African market in 1964 introducing the iconic ISUZU Elfin TKG 10 petrol-engine 1½ ton truck, marking the beginning of a legacy that would shape the transportation industry for decades to come.

Over the years, we have continuously raised the bar, introducing groundbreaking technologies and pioneering advancements that have redefined the standards of excellence in commercial vehicles and consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation to deliver vehicles that exceed expectations. Securing the top spot in the cab-over-chassis market in the medium- and heavy commercial vehicle segments for 11 years consecutively is testament of our trucks’ unwavering reliability and durability.

One of our key pillars of success lies in our relentless pursuit of technological advancement and environmental sustainability. As part of our 5-step alternative propulsion journey towards full Carbon Neutral New Energy Vehicles, in addition to EURO 5 models already available, we are excited to announce that Diesel Dual Fuel is now available as an option on 20 of our truck models, offering customers a more sustainable and efficient transportation solution. The recently introduced NPR 400 Compressed Natural Gas model further expands our range of environmentally friendly vehicles.

As we commemorate 60 years of ISUZU Trucks in South Africa, we extend our sincere gratitude to our customers, partners, and employees for their unwavering support and trust. Together, we have achieved remarkable milestones and overcome challenges, and we remain committed to driving innovation, excellence, and sustainability in the years to come.

VWGA’s Significant investments in renewable energy

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Transitioning to renewable energy is more than just a means to avoid the disruptive effects of power outages for Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA), but rather a conscious step towards reducing the environmental impact of fossil fuels.

Recognising the effect of fossil fuels on global climate change, VWGA is striving to minimise its dependence on these energy sources. As the nation celebrates Energy Month in May, VWGA highlights its commitment to become carbon neutral in vehicle and component production by 2030 through its Zero Impact Factory initiatives.

To this end, significant investments totalling up to R100 million have been made in recent years to transition to renewable energy. By the end of this year a total of 5.6 MWp of solar energy will be powering Volkswagen’s manufacturing plant in Kariega.

The installation of 3 MWp Solar Photovoltaic (PV) panels in the employee car park at the Kariega plant is currently commissioned and is expected to be operational by September 2024. The latest installation complements the existing 2.6 MWp of rooftop PV panels in the vehicle assembly plant and the 163 kWp at the component manufacturing plant.

South Africa’s largest exporter of passenger cars is following a global trend. According to the World Economic Forum the world added 50% more renewable capacity last year compared to 2022. The world’s capacity to generate renewable electricity is expanding faster than at any time in the last three decades, giving it a real chance of achieving the goal of tripling global capacity by 2030, the International Energy Agency reported.

Ulrich Schwabe, VWGA Production Director, emphasised the importance of transitioning to renewable energy. “Our plan to become a Zero Impact Factory by 2030 aligns with our global Group Strategy Way to Zero. We all witness the effects of climate change and its impact on biodiversity. Our commitment to carbon neutrality reflects the urgency for immediate action,” said Schwabe.

According to the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, manufacturing in Nelson Mandela Bay, where VWGA is headquartered, accounts for at least 55% of electricity consumption. This highlights the significance of renewable energy sources as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.

Coega Showcases Growing Hospitality and Travel Brands at Africa Travel Indaba

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Gqeberha, South Africa, 10 May 2024 – The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) is gearing up to exhibit its growing hospitality and travel brands at the Africa Travel Indaba, from the 14th to the 16th of May 2024. The impressive travel and tourism-focused event is set to take place at the Durban International Convention Centre, in KwaZulu-Natal.

Coega Acting Executive Manager of Operations, Mr. Sadick Davids, explains that Coega’s hospitality and travel brands form part of its business diversification strategy: “As an innovative and sustainable public entity, Coega has dedicated significant effort to diversify sources of revenue to attain financial sustainability. In line with our vision to champion socio-economic development, we have developed various service products to complement our core focus of investment promotion, attraction, and infrastructure development. Our hospitality and travel brands are a prime example of this.”

The 4-star graded Bluewater Bay Sunrise Hotel, the 3-star graded Coega Vulindlela Accommodation and Conference Centre and IATA accredited Coega Travel Agency offer travel and accommodation solutions to suit the needs of discerning travellers and event organisers, with the Coega Travel Agency being the latest business to open its offering to the public for leisure and business travel.

“The Coega Vulindlela Accommodation and Conference Centre and the Bluewater Bay Sunrise Hotel have been nominated for an array of tourism and hospitality awards. We are attending the Africa Travel Indaba to let Africa know that we are open for business and ready take clients through our Coega journey and experience, and to serve clients from near and far,” shares Davids.

The Coega Travel Agency is accredited by the International Air Travel Association (IATA) and the Association of South African Travel Agents (ASATA), and offers a 24-hour service for convenience and peace of mind, accommodation and conferencing facilities, flight bookings, car rental at affordable rates and the best value for money, visa assistance and travel insurance to connect you to the world, foreign exchange, pre-flight check-in, and is fully B-BBEE compliant.

The Coega Vulindlela Conference Centre (VACC) stands as a preeminent destination for travellers in search of the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and service. It provides secure and comfortable lodging in a tranquil environment, catering to those who seek a serene atmosphere, rendering it as an ideal refuge for individuals, government entities, and corporate entities, a short distance away from the urban hustle and bustle but close to industrial activity in the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ). Coega VACC also provides superb communal short-term accommodation for non-local employees of businesses operating within the Coega SEZ and surrounds, as well as recreational amenities, including a soccer field, tennis court, squash court, and netball facilities. Furthermore, the versatile venue boasts conference facilities with the capacity to host up to 1000 delegates, rendering it the ideal choice for large-scale events.

Coega Vulindlela Conference Centre has the capacity to host up to 1000 delegates.

Having recently celebrated three years of success, the 4-star Bluewater Bay Sunrise Hotel is renowned for its breath-taking ocean views, crisp décor, opulent interiors, decadent food, and impeccable customer service. Featuring 58 meticulously designed rooms, an elegant dining experience with a full-service restaurant, state-of-the-art fitness centre, refreshing outdoor pool and top-notch conferencing facilities, the hotel offers competitive rates and seasonal promotions.

“We are proud to showcase Coega’s hospitality and travel brands alongside other successful businesses in Africa. We are committed to maintaining world-class service standards across the board and look forward to meeting future clients and guests,” continues Davids.