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ISUZU Foundation improves learning environment at Grayville Primary School

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The ISUZU Foundation has invested R118 200 to transform an area previously marred by weeds, broken glass, rubble, and stones into a safe and vibrant space for Grade R learners at Grayville Primary School to engage in impactful learning through playful activities.

Grayville Primary School, a government-funded institution which serves 1 317 learners from low-income households and previously disadvantaged communities, grapples with financial limitations, relying on fundraisers and external support to supplement its budget.

“This initiative emphasises the commitment from ISUZU and its Dealer Network to make a meaningful impact in supporting educational initiatives and community development projects,” remarked Marcia Mayaba, ISUZU Department Executive Dealer and Business Development. Mayaba continued, “NMI ISUZU, located in Johannesburg, played a pivotal role in bringing this project to fruition, highlighting the critical role of ISUZU Dealerships in uplifting communities within which ISUZU operates.”

“Partnering with ISUZU Foundation allows us to amplify efforts in addressing pressing needs and enhancing the well-being of the young within our community,” said Vivek Singh, Dealer Principal NMI ISUZU.

Despite financial constraints, Grayville Primary School remains steadfast in providing essential services, including a self-funded feeding program benefitting 270 underprivileged children, with contributions from teachers, students, and the local community.

“Creating an enriching learning environment extends beyond academics; it’s about fostering a safe and nurturing space for our learners to thrive,” remarked Afeera Khan, Principal of Grayville Primary School. Khan continued, “The paving project by ISUZU Foundation not only improves our facilities but also exemplifies ISUZU’s dedication to the holistic development of our learners.”

ISUZU Foundation remains dedicated to supporting educational initiatives and empowering communities across Africa.

Newton Park’s new cluster driven by common vision of impacting ease of doing business in the area

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Today marks another milestone as businesses in Newton Park have come together as a collective to form a cluster to address service delivery and safety and security challenges impacting the ease of doing business in the area.

This is the 11th cluster to be established under the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber banner, adding to a long list of already operational clusters across the Metro including in the Baakens Valley, Beachfront, Deal Party, Fairview, Kariega, Neave/Korsten, North End, Perseverance and Struandale and Walmer.

To get things started, the team appointed an interim executive committee consisting of Dirk Erasmus (Online Innovations – Interim Chairperson), Deon van Zyl (PKF), Chris Wilke (Newton Park Neighbourhood Watch), Cassandra Lascelles (Amobia), Paola Horack (Chamber’s Overall Geographic Clusters Board Lead), Athina Langson (IDC), Hendre Schoeman (Bluekap Properties), Charmaine Hayes (RMB), Chantel van Heerden (Bellbuoy) and Denise van Huyssteen (Chamber CEO) to start with the groundwork to formalise the cluster.

Chamber chief executive Denise van Huyssteen welcomed the move by businesses in Newton Park for establishing a cluster in their area, which is a strong commercial business hub in Nelson Mandela Bay. “These businesses now have the opportunity to unite around common priorities which should enable them as a collective, and backed by the Chamber, to address some of the challenges in the area.

“Since the establishment of the first geographic cluster in Perseverance over two years ago, there has been a growing awareness and buy-in to the need for businesses to play a proactive role in influencing the state of their operating environments. The reality is that for businesses to be viable, the basics need to work from reliable water, sanitation and electricity supply through to the roads,” she highlights. “This does not mean that we are naïve to the challenges around us but rather have embraced the approach of influencing what’s within our control and collaborating with whoever will do the right thing. Ultimately all our actions are driven by what’s in the best interests of the economy and jobs as a whole.”

“Essentially, if we want to stay in business, we need to care about what’s going on around us and step up and take action to influence positive change.  Sitting back and waiting for someone else to do something won’t achieve anything, and in fact will just result in the slide and decay continuing. Each one of us, no matter how small or big our businesses are, has critical strengths which can brought to the table to enable the development of out of the box solutions.”

“We thank those businesses who have volunteered their time and resources to become part of the collective to drive positive change in our Bay.  These contributions, no matter how big or small, can make a difference.”

The Chamber has incorporated its learnings into a How to Establish a Geographic Cluster Guide to enable the quicker and more efficient formation of clusters. “This demonstrates our commitment to ongoing experimentation and sharing of best practices, while at the same time promoting a simpler approach to enabling change through agility, speed and innovation.” “As a business community we have hope in the future – we know that this is the Bay of Opportunity. It starts with all of us believing in the potential and taking action to drive things forward in the right direction,” she says.

The newly appointed cluster chairperson Dirk Erasmus says “the establishment of this cluster is critical to the future of Newton Park which is currently facing several issues around safety and security. Now is the time for all business owners in Newton Park unite, collectively we can return Newton Park to a safe and flourishing business area.”

Newton Park Cluster Manco
Back Row, left to right: Dirk Erasmus (Online Innovations – Interim Chairperson), Deon van Zyl (PKF), Chris Wilke (Newton Park Neighbourhood Watch), Cassandra Lascelles (Amobia), Paola Horack (Chamber’s Overall Geographic Clusters Board Lead)
Front, left to right: Athina Langson (IDC), Hendre Schoeman (Bluekap Properties), Charmaine Hayes (RMB), Chantel van Heerden (Bellbuoy) and Denise van Huyssteen (Chamber CEO)

Presidents Debate to Explore Actions to Unlock Bay’s Potential as Africa’s Automotive Hub

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The Presidents' Debate panel discussion which will take place at the Annual General Meeting of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber on 06 June, 2024, promises to be a significant and insightful event, focusing on the potential of Nelson Mandela Bay as the automotive hub on the African continent.

The event will feature prominent business leaders, Martina Biene (President of AAAM and MD and Chairperson of Volkswagen Group Africa), Billy Tom (Naamsa President and President and CEO of Isuzu Motors South Africa) and Loyiso Dotwana (Chamber President and Executive Director of Nako Engineering). The discussion will delve into the Metro’s potential as the automotive hub and explore some of the challenges facing manufacturing in South Africa and the Metro. It will further probe potential actions which can be taken to unlock the Bay’s potential to become the continent’s automotive and manufacturing hub. 

Notably, this is the first time that both the presidents of AAAM and Nacaam are from Nelson Mandela Bay based companies.

The local automotive industry is a vital economic driver, representing 41% of auto manufacturing employment in South Africa. Volkswagen Group Africa, the largest manufacturer in the country, which recently announced that it will be undertaking a R4 billion investment to produce a compact SUV, holds a significant share of 24.3%. Almost half of the country’s automotive component manufacturers are located in the Metro.  Additional investment in the local automotive sector is set to follow with Stellantis establishing a R3 billion light commercial vehicle plant in the Bay.

The South African automotive industry is celebrating its centenary this year and the Metro has played an important role in this regard with the first vehicle assembly manufacturing plant in the country being established here by the Ford Motor Company, and two years later by General Motors. Volkswagen set up a manufacturing plant in the metro in 1951 to build the legendary Beetle.

“The upcoming debate marks an important moment for the Chamber, the Bay and the country at large as the calibre of participants represents some of the leading organisations that are at the coalface of the automotive sector nationally. More importantly, the platform provides an opportunity to have an open conversation about the challenges facing the automotive industry and how the private sector and government can collaborate in order to step up efforts to retain and attract investment and jobs,” says Denise van Huyssteen, Chamber’s Chief Executive.

The automotive sector is facing significant challenges as it navigates the complex path towards the assembly of new energy vehicles and rapid technological advancements which are resulting in major global shifts in the automotive sector. South Africa faces the added challenges of adopting new energy vehicle technology due to infrastructure gaps and high re-engineering and logistics costs.

Other critical issues include the reliability and quality of power supply and the general state of water, sanitation and electricity infrastructure.

“The current business environment is exceptionally tough with challenges coming from all fronts. It is thus vital that all the stakeholders collaborate to quickly find solutions to these challenges and retain and grow the industrialisation and economic development of in the country and our local economy, which is very much anchored by the manufacturing sector. As such, we see the Presidents Debate delving deeper into these issues to explore viable solutions to cushion the industry against the radically changed operating environment and reorientate it towards a more agile, receptive and more innovative growth trajectory,” says Van Huyssteen.

Fauna and Flora Rescue Programme at R3bn Stellantis Site in Coega SEZ

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Gqeberha, South Africa, 2 May 2024 – Last week, on 24 April 2024, the Coega Development Corporation (Coega) commenced its Fauna and Flora Rescue Programme at the R3bn Stellantis development site in Zone 2 of the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ). The Rescue Programme is being implemented in partnership with the Environmental Education Department of the Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) Municipality and the Urban Raptor Project.

Coega Chief Sustainability Officer, Ms. Telly Chauke, explains that sustainability and conservation remain at the forefront of any development in the Coega SEZ, as mandated by environmental legislation and in line with organisational values. “Coega conducts compulsory plant and animal rescue activities before any construction activity commences on Coega SEZ land. While infrastructural development is our mandate, sustainable development and environmental conservation are priorities,” says Chauke.

The Fauna and Flora Rescue Programme will continue over a six-week period, involving the search for and relocation of indigenous plants, as well as animals, from the 32-hectare Stellantis site, to designated areas.

Coega Environmental Manager, Ms. Andrea von Holdt, explains that plants will be relocated to primary and high schools across the city as part of environmental education, and to investor gardens in the SEZ, while rescued animals will be relocated to sites designated in the Coega SEZ Open Space Management areas. These areas are managed in terms of Coega’s Open Space Management Plan for the conservation of faunal and floral species.

“The allocation of plants to various schools will be managed by the NMB Municipality. The relocation of animals to open space sites in the Coega SEZ will ensure that animals remain in their natural habitat,” says von Holdt.

According to NMB Municipality Environmental Education Officer, Ms. Lisa Lotter, the Programme presents an opportunity to showcase the many benefits of indigenous plants to local communities. “Conservation efforts are vitally important, and once people acknowledge the significance of these plants; we’ll be able to see a change in behaviour,” shares Lotter.
A team member from the Urban Raptor Project collecting indigenous plants on site.

Coega’s Fauna and Flora Rescue Programme demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to greening the city with our endemic and indigenous plants. It builds on the work we have previously done and is a win-win for people and the environment,” concludes von Holdt.

While the Stellantis launch event is set to take place in May 2024, the construction of the Stellantis plant is earmarked to commence in June 2024.

Frolic in Fields of Cannabis

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On 29 April 2024 the Coega Development Corporation (Coega) joined the Eastern Cape Premier, Honourable Oscar Lubabalo Mabuyane, and the Eastern Cape MEC for Rural Development and Agrarian Reform, Honourable Nonkqubela Pieters, in welcoming Cannabis cultivator, Medigrow, to the Coega Special Economic Zone, in Gqeberha. The MEC for Finance, Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Honourable Mlungisi Mvoko, and the MEC for Health, Honourable Nomakhosazana Meth, were also in attendance alongside the Premier.

Established in 2017, Medigrow has established 14 medicinal cannabis farms across the country. Medigrow’s newest facility, located in Zone 3 of the Coega SEZ, positions the Eastern Cape as the Cannabis industrial hub of South Africa.

Speaking on the socio-economic impact of the project, Premier Mabuyane explained that thousands of jobs would be created in the sector over the next few years: “The investment represents the biggest investment in this subsector in the province. The initial investment pledge of over R100 million for 2024 to commence with the indoor growing, packaging, extraction, and cigarette manufacturing operations will create about 90 direct employment opportunities.

We are working on attracting more investors to the Eastern Cape region as a national nodal point,” said Premier Mabuyane.
The Coega SEZ Medigrow facility will be used to cultivate indoor medicinal cannabis strains, inclusive of processing and packaging for domestic and export markets. With a goal to establish a network of superior cannabis producers in South Africa, Medigrow envisions that cannabis will become a widely accepted form of medicine.

MEC Mvoko emphasised the significant impact of welcoming new investments into the economy: “The launch of yet another investment holds promise for job creation, especially in areas where cannabis cultivation is prevalent. These linkages serve to strengthen the economy by providing a ready market for local producers. Furthermore, this investment marks just the beginning of a broader initiative, signaling potential for further economic expansion. The establishment of such ventures also nurtures connections with other regions, such as the Province of the Western Cape, and supports various processing activities,” said Mvoko.

During the event, Premier Mabuyane announced opportunities for farmers as well as various research and development programmes that will be implemented.

Medigrow adds to Coega SEZ’s burgeoning agroprocessing sector, joining the likes of Dynamic Commodities, the Natural Fibre Hub, Coega Biomass, to name a few.

Education transformed at kwaKhanya Daycare Centre in East London

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East London, 30 April 2024 – ISUZU Foundation has installed a prefab classroom facility and upgraded sanitation infrastructure at kwaKhanya Daycare Early Childhood Development Centre in Scenery Park Township, East London in efforts to advance education and community development initiatives in areas within which ISUZU operates.

KwaKhanya Daycare Centre, serving 25 children aged 0-5 years, run by three devoted teachers and a principal, has long grappled with inadequate infrastructure, particularly during adverse weather conditions. Principal Yoliswa Bulana expressed gratitude for ISUZU Foundation’s intervention, stating, “The old classroom posed significant challenges, hindering our ability to provide a safe and effective learning environment for the children. ISUZU Foundation’s support has provided a sustainable solution, for which we are immensely thankful.”

The Foundation’s investment has facilitated the purchase and placement of a prefabricated classroom, equipped with modern amenities to enrich the learning experience for young learners. Additionally, new toilet facilities have been constructed, addressing critical sanitation needs and fostering a hygienic environment conducive to learning and growth.

Marcia Mayaba, ISUZU Department Executive Dealer and Business Development, remarked, “We are thrilled to witness the transformation of educational infrastructure at kwaKhanya Daycare Centre. Education is the cornerstone of thriving communities, and our commitment to empowering young minds through enhanced facilities underscores our dedication to fostering positive change.”

The handover ceremony, attended by ISUZU Foundation representatives, local community leaders, educators, and parents, served as a testament to the collaborative efforts aimed at promoting educational excellence and holistic development. Meyers Motors ISUZU in East London, a longstanding community member for 90 years, played a pivotal role in the successful completion of this project. Richard Ferrant, Chief Operating Officer for Meyers Motor Group, emphasised their enduring commitment to educational initiatives that uplift impoverished communities and restore dignity for teachers and learners.

ISUZU Foundation extends gratitude to all stakeholders, including project partners, volunteers, and supporters, whose steadfast commitment has made this initiative possible. As ISUZU Foundation continues to champion impactful initiatives, it remains committed in its mission to empower communities for generations to come.

IRONMAN 4 the Kidz Now Supports 13 Charities

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Gqeberha – In a powerful collaboration, the ISUZU Foundation and IRONMAN 4 the Kidz are proud to continue their joint efforts in strengthening support for 13 registered Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) in the Eastern Cape. The partnership, fuelled by the R158 000 funds raised from the prestigious ISUZU IRONMAN African Championship, ISUZU IRONMAN 70.3 Nelson Mandela Bay, and ISUZU Corporate Triathlon Challenge events, aims to make a significant impact on the lives of children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The funds raised through these events will be allocated towards crucial areas such as refurbishment of the charity homes, transportation fees, nutritional support, sports activities, medical expenses, and, where feasible, capital projects. This support ensures that the registered NPOs continue their vital work in providing essential services and opportunities for children facing various challenges.

The organisations receiving support are:

  1. Eastern Province Youth Care Centre: Focused on holistic childcare and development programs.
  2. Khayalethu Youth Centre: Providing care and intervention programs for street children.
  3. Children’s Haven MTR Smit: Creating conditions for optimum child development.
  4. Heatherbank: Offering structured education programs for children.
  5. Salem Baby Centre: Providing basic needs and economic empowerment for mothers.
  6. Oosterland Foundation: Empowering children with positive life experiences and skills.
  7. Daleview Foster Home: Ensuring comprehensive care and guidance for orphans.
  8. Siyakatala Child and Youth Centre: Caring for neglected, abused, and orphaned children.
  9. Eluxolweni Shelter: Nurturing and supporting boys without homes.
  10. Barcelona Feeding Scheme: Ensuring balanced meals for children in informal settlements.
  11. Kids of Tomorrow: Providing nutrition, education, and support for early childhood development.
  12. Mahlasedi Foundation: Delivering balanced meals to primary school learners.
  13. Early Birds Day Care: Offering early childhood development and education for youngsters.

“ISUZU Foundation, in collaboration with IRONMAN 4 the Kidz, remains committed to the well-being and development of children in the Eastern Cape. Through these collaborative efforts, we aim to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most,” says Marcia Mayaba, ISUZU Department Executive Dealer and Business Development South African Customs Union (SACU) Markets.

In Nelson Mandela Bay, ISUZU Foundation, and IRONMAN 4 the Kidz have been actively involved in supporting local communities through various initiatives. From providing educational resources to nutritional support for children, the partnership has consistently worked towards developing a supportive environment where children can thrive. This latest endeavour further solidifies their dedication to making a positive impact in the region.

Opening of R70 million Sophatisana Senior Secondary School

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On Tuesday, 23 April 2024, the Coega Development Corporation (Coega) joined the Eastern Cape Premier, Honourable Oscar Lubabalo Mabuyane, and the Executive Mayor of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Her Worship, Princess Faku, for the official handover of the R70 million Sophatisana Senior Secondary School (SSS) in Reeston, in the Eastern Cape Province.

Sophatisana SSS, located in East London, falls under the Eastern Cape Province Department’s School Building Programme, and underscores Coega’s commitment to deepen state capacity in infrastructure development and advancing educational infrastructure within the Eastern Cape and beyond.

The Eastern Cape Premier, Honourable Oscar Lubabalo Mabuyane, described the occasion as one of great significance for the community: ““This state-of-the-art institution stands as a beacon of our commitment to education and a testament to our strides as a province in nurturing young minds and fostering an environment conducive to learning and development. This school is not just a building but a promise to our children and future generations—a promise of access to quality education and endless possibilities.”

Coega serves as a Trusted Implementing Agent (IA) of Choice on an assortment of school infrastructure development projects, including new schools, improvements, and additions to existing schools, as well as repairs and renovations to various schools in line with its vision of being a leading catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development, in accordance with the United Nations Sustainable Development (SDG) Goal 4, the National Development Plan Vision 2030 and the National Infrastructure Plan 2050.

The completed project encompasses a comprehensive array of facilities, including an administration block, staff ablution facilities, 25 classrooms, and specialist classrooms including three multipurpose centres and a science laboratory. In addition, the project comprised a safe room, staff room, sick room, paving, security fencing, new furniture, and 11 temporary mobile classrooms.

Coega Project Manager for the Department of Education Portfolio, Mr. Siyabulela Ntanta shared Coega’s role as IA on infrastructure projects: “As an Implementing Agent of Choice, Coega understands that these projects have a profound impact on the socio- economic development of communities. Through construction, jobs are created, and once the project is handed over, communities are uplifted. Education is the key to employability, and enabling infrastructure improves the quality of education.”

In terms of socio-economic impact and job creation, 17 small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) participated in the Sophatisana SSS Project, with a total SMME procurement spend of R15,8m. Close to 70 work opportunities for both skilled and semi- skilled workers were provided by virtue of the project, as well as various training opportunities.

The opening of Sophatisana SSS marks a significant milestone in Coega’s ongoing collaboration with the Eastern Cape Department of Education. By providing state-of-the- art educational facilities, Coega continues to play a pivotal role in driving socio-economic development and building a more prosperous future for South Africa, enriching the lives of learners, and contributing to the broader landscape of access to quality education. In so doing, governance and accountability is important.

The Auditor-General of South Africa issued a “clean audit” to Coega for the last four (4) consecutive years, demonstrating good governance, compliance, and strong leadership in supply chain management. In 2020, Coega was identified in the South African Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP) as one of the IA’s to be designated for certain key national projects and to further strengthen state capacity for infrastructure expansion, nationally.

Coega Supports Department of Employment and Labour Activation Programme

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The Coega Development Corporation (Coega), last week, through its Skills Development Centre (SDC), participated at the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) Labour Activation Programme (LAP) project launch at the East London International Convention Centre (ELICC).

Spearheaded by the Department of Employment and Labour, the R1.9 billion UIF LAP is aimed at ensuring poverty alleviation through job preservation and skills development.

In his keynote address, the Minister of Employment and Labour, Honourable Thulas Nxesi said: “It is opportune that in this freedom month, we gather here at the Home of the Legends to mark 30 years of democracy, partnership, and growth. We are here to launch this Unemployment Insurance Fund Labour Activation Programme, to strengthen employment creation and encourage demand-led training to mitigate the unemployment in our country.”

A formal pledge was signed during the event to fulfill the LAP Activation Programme’s objectives in mitigating unemployment and contributing to growth and development.

The Eastern Cape Premier, Honourable Oscar Lubabalo Mabuyane, emphasised that over 56,000 people in the province stand to benefit from the LAP Activation Programme, highlighting the crucial role of enhancing employability and fostering entrepreneurship in the province.

Mr. David Lambaatjeen, Coega SDC Training Manager, said: “We are immensely proud to lend our support to the LAP Activation Programme launch. Our commitment to skills development was solidified through funding agreements in the 2018/2019 financial year, to provide opportunities for 135 apprentices across eight artisan trades and 200 learners for professional driving learnerships through our Skills Development Centre. We believe in nurturing talent and empowering individuals to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.”

The event featured local businesses, showcasing a diverse range of services including entrepreneurship training, artisan management, skills development, remote work training, project and quality management, and innovative farming solutions, amongst others.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this event and look forward to supporting future career development initiatives in the region,” concluded Mr. Lambaatjeen.

Woodlands Dairy Excels At Bloem Show Cheese Awards

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Woodlands Dairy triumphed at this year’s Bloem Show Cheese Awards, the only show in South Africa where a dairy product competition is still presented. With diverse categories including butter, gouda cheese, cheddar cheese, continental cheese, specialty cheese, and exotic cheese, along with a wide array of milk and goat milk products, the company secured thirteen awards for their First Choice products and those of clients.

The company’s own brand, First Choice, earned awards for its Amazi, Baby Gouda, UHT Low Fat Milk, UHT Pouring Cream, and Velvet Dairy Desert (Butterscotch).

Award-winning products produced specifically for Spar include Butter Spread, Rindless Gouda, Rindless Cheddar, Matured Cheddar Gouda Processed Cheese Slices, and Vanilla Custard. Woolworths walked away with top honours for their UHT Full Cream Milk and UHT Whipping Cream, manufactured by Woodlands Dairy.

Furthermore, Woodlands Dairy was honoured with the CRYOVAC Rindless Cheddar Floating Trophy for their Spar Rindless Cheddar (86.7%) and the Stein Bros Gouda Floating Trophy for their Spar Rindless Gouda (91%). These prestigious awards recognise Woodlands Dairy as the top cheesemaker in both categories.

Marisa Maccaferri, Marketing Executive for Woodlands Dairy and First Choice, comments, “We’re once again honoured and delighted by our performance at this year’s awards. This continued recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and the hard work of our dedicated teams. Each day, they bring unparalleled expertise and passion to their roles, driving our ability to innovate across our product lines. This accolade is not just about our achievements; it’s about our consistent growth and the high standards we maintain in every endeavour. We are deeply proud of these accomplishments and the recognition they bring to our diverse and talented staff.”