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Boutique Travel Agency Offers Value for Money and Unparalleled Customer Experience

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The Coega Travel Agency, located at the Coega Business Centre in Zone 1 of the Coega Special Economic Zone, is the right choice for your travel needs.

Following the Coega Travel Agency’s (CTA) launch to the public in December 2022, after 14 years of servicing corporate customers only, the boutique travel agency has made significant strides to enhance its service offering to corporate and leisure travellers.

The CTA is accredited by the International Air Travel Association (IATA)and the Association of South African Travel Agents (ASATA). Newly appointed Travel Manager, Nomvuzo Zongo, says: “CTA 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.”

For convenience, customers can also utilise their credit cards and other payment methods for services. The CTA is Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) compliant, in line with the Protection of Personal Information Act 2013.

“We are excited that the Coega Travel Agency is becoming one of the progressive agencies in this country, especially in the Eastern Cape, utilising our experience and unparalleled customer service of 14 years dealing with corporate clients. As
we approach the easter tourism rush, we hope the public will take advantage of the travel packages, offering value for money,” concludes Zongo.

Coega and DoE Launch the Vukile Tshwete SS School in the Eastern Cape

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On Thursday, 14 March 2024, Coega was pleased to support the official handover of the Vukile Tshwete Senior Secondary School (SSS) to the community of Keiskammahoek by the Eastern Cape Department of Education (DoE). The Vukile Tshwete SSS, which falls under the Department’s School Building Programme, involved the construction of new facilities in the Amatole District Municipality of the Eastern Cape.

Speaking during the school handover, the Eastern Cape MEC of Education, Honourable Fundile David Gade, shared: “Again, we have raised the hope and flag of this country in the community of Keiskammahoek and we continue to build a solid foundation that no one can change. The completion and handover of the Vukile Tshwete Senior Secondary School is a significant milestone for the Amatole District Municipality. It represents a commitment to providing quality educational facilities for children and supporting the development of future generations.”

Coega serves as an Implementing Agent (IA) of Choice on an assortment of school projects, including new schools, improvements, and additions to existing schools, as well as repairs and renovations to various schools, in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development (SDG) Goal 4, which is about ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all, and the National Development Plan Vision 2030 and the National Infrastructure Plan 2050.

Since the completion of infrastructure upgrades, the school has reported increased enrolments, sporting accomplishments, and a notable improvement in academic performance (89%).

Vukile Tshwete SSS Grade 11 learner, Mbasa Nkone, who is the Deputy Head of the school, expressed his excitement after the opening ceremony: “I’ve never been this happy, this is a game changer and a moment of immense pride for us. With these state-of-the-art facilities, we are empowered to excel academically, and we are grateful to the Eastern Cape Department of Education and Coega for their commitment to investing in our future.”

The R55,45 million project, included the construction of new facilities, such as seven administrative spaces, including a nutrition centre, sick bay, staff kitchen, staff room, printing room and office, 14 toilets, as well as 16 classrooms, comprising 12 ordinary classrooms, one multipurpose centre, two computer rooms, and a science laboratory. The developments will impact the lives of close to 1000 learners enrolled at the school, providing them with a conducive learning environment.

Coega DoE Infrastructure Programme Director, Ms. Thembeka Poswa, said: “This school is the embodiment of Coega’s dedication to quality education, positively impacting the broader community and contributing to the social and economic development and wellbeing of the Eastern Cape.”

In addition to the new infrastructure, the project included electrical installations, gas installations, associated roadworks, walkways, platforms, elevated water tanks and stands, as well as water, sewerage and stormwater reticulation, and the demolition of existing timber structures.

In terms of socio-economic development imperatives, the project provided employment to 76 local workers, the majority of whom are youth.

“As the country’s trusted Implementing Agent of Choice, Coega is committed to efficiency, transparency, and community engagement, seamlessly integrating with the Department of Education’s objectives to navigate the complexity of educational infrastructure development. Coega’s hands-on approach, from planning to execution, has ensured that the school exceeds the required standards, setting a benchmark for future projects in the region,” concluded Ms. Poswa.

Coega strives to continue enhancing the educational outcomes and increasing accessibility, particularly in rural areas, where there is a lack of basic amenities like adequate learning environments, essential teaching tools, electricity, water, and sanitary facilities.

BK Steel and Profiles new state-of-the-art premises

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BK Steel and Profiles has opened a state-of-the-art facility in Deal Party following a substantial investment they are undertaking in partnership with the Industrial Development Corporation.

The investment has enabled the company to reposition itself as one of the leading steel cutting businesses in Nelson Mandela Bay, catering to customers within the Industrial Automation Sector and the Automotive Tool Sector across key regions, including the Eastern Cape, Western Cape, KwaZulu Natal and Gauteng.

BK Steels
Chamber CEO Denise van Huyssteen, MEC Finance Mlungisi Mvoko and BK Steel and Profiles CEO Shenny Naidoo during the official opening of the new facility.

Speaking during the official launch, BK Steel and Profiles chief executive officer Shenny Naidoo said the company’s venture into the steel cutting business in the Metro signifies not just growth but a commitment to excellence and innovation in serving their clientele. It further underscores the region’s potential as a hub for industrial growth and innovation.

“This significant expansion not only elevates our capabilities but also creates opportunities for job growth. With an expanded array of services, we aim to collaborate closely with industry leaders, fostering mutually beneficial relationships and propelling each other’s businesses forward. Our primary focus lies in enhancing the supply chain within the automotive and industrial automation sectors,” said Naidoo.

Naidoo further elaborated that the expansion would not have been possible without the invaluable support of the Industrial Development Corporation, who provided the company with a substantial capital injection, which enabled them to procure state-of-the-art equipment, including a cutting-edge Steel Laser Cutting Machine and Table Saw Machine.

“Our cutting-edge Laser Machine empowers us to slice through various steel types, including Mild Steel, Aluminium, and Stainless Steel, with unparalleled precision and efficiency. Meanwhile, the Table Saw Machine facilitates precise cutting of Aluminium sheets to meet our clients’ exact specifications, ranging from 5mm to 100mm in thickness,” he said.

He says that BK Steel remains steadfast in its commitment to not only expand its business but also make meaningful contributions to the local economy and the broader Eastern Cape region. “We are excited about the journey ahead and look forward to making a lasting impact in our industry and community.”

Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber chief executive Denise van Huyssteen applauded BK Steel and Profiles for their forward-thinking approach and their commitment to making a positive impact on the local economy. “This investment helps to further develop and strengthen the company’s steel solutions capabilities, thus providing increased capacity and opportunity to grow their business. Very importantly it will provide an option to businesses to procure steel cutting services locally, thereby helping to retain and attract much needed local employment opportunities.”

“We welcome the Industrial Development Corporation’s support to BK Steel, and also their commitment to supporting the sustainability and growth of local businesses.”

ISUZU Foundation sponsors over 100 school desks and chairs

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ISUZU Foundation, a collaborative initiative between ISUZU Motors South Africa and its Dealer Network, has expanded its impact into neighbouring Namibia by handing over 100 much-needed school desks and chairs to Elias Amxab Combined School, situated in Sesfontein settlement, Epupa Circuit in the Kunene Region.

The school accommodates 820 learners from Grade 0 to Grade 11 and has 28 staff members. Majority of the learners come from previously marginalised and disadvantaged backgrounds in areas such as Ovahima, San and Ovaherero.

In addition to the 100 school desks and chairs, the ISUZU Foundation through Auas Motors in the area, has responded to the request for assistance by providing 50 double bunk beds and mattresses for the school hostel.

“Part of our commitment as the ISUZU Foundation is to make a positive impact in the communities within which we operate. Many of our efforts are largely focused on education and enabling a conducive learning and teaching environment. We are extremely excited to hand over these assets to Elias Amxab Combined School and trust this will go a long way in easing the strain experienced by learners and educators,” says Marvan van Zyl, ISUZU Foundation Chairperson.

The school, which was established in 1955, faces several challenges ranging from a shortage of classrooms, furniture, and proper assets for its hostel facilities.

“The donation from the ISUZU Foundation provides us with an ideal opportunity to build the next generation of leaders by providing them with the necessary equipment that will enable them to learn lifelong skills. We are extremely grateful for the desks, chairs and beds they have handed over to our school, and I am confident this will go a long way in inspiring our learners and staff as we continue to pursue better academic outcomes”, says Shemunyenge Hamukwaya, Principal at Elias Amxab Combined School.

The ISUZU Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to identify sustainable opportunities to uplift the communities within which it operates.

Tenth new business cluster launched in Nelson Mandela Bay

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The Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber continues to make headway in mobilising businesses in the metro around areas of common interest with the establishment of a new geographic cluster in Walmer, bringing the total number of clusters under its banner to 10.

The establishment of the new cluster adds to a long list of already operational clusters across the Metro namely Baakens Valley, Beachfront, Deal Party, Fairview, Kariega, Neave/Korsten, North End, Perseverance and Struandale.

An interim executive committee consisting of Cameron Harvey from Elvee’s Properties as Chairperson, Claudia Daniels (Airports Company SA), John Parry (Caltex Walmer); Julie Mundell (Gutsche Investments); Simon le Gras (Simon Says), Leonard Michau (Gutsche Investments), Paola Horak (Chamber Cluster Board Lead), Denise van Huyssteen (Chamber) and Ashwin Daya (Chamber) was appointed to begin the work of formalising the cluster.

Chamber chief executive Denise van Huyssteen says it is encouraging seeing the growing number of local businesses who are embracing the Chamber’s action-orientated and activist stance, volunteering time and resources to implement solutions as a collective to address challenges impacting the ease of doing business within their geographical locations.

“The cluster concept is a key platform to enable businesses to collaborate and address shared challenges in their areas of operation, and to work with the relevant stakeholders to find implementable solutions. As businesses, operating in a fast changing and very unpredictable environment, we need to all put our intellectual and other resources together to ensure our collective sustainability. Our efforts must be focused on doing all we can to protect investment and jobs, and being proactive to ensure that we have an enabling environment in place to achieve this,” says Van Huyssteen.

She further elaborates that what makes businesses in the Metro unique is “our willingness to collaborate and our focus on taking action”. “I am especially impressed with the mindset of local business leaders who understand that in this environment of extreme challenges, a team orientated approach works best. The focus is firmly being placed on being inclusive and injecting energy into the common issues which unite us.”

The Chamber now has a How to Establish a Geographic Cluster Guide in place based on lessons learnt thus far from the clusters. “This demonstrates commitment to sharing best practices and promoting a standardised approach to collaborative business solutions, while at the same time also facilitating 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.

Newly appointed Chairperson Harvey says the coming together of businesses from the Walmer area underscores the importance of leveraging their relations to address issues as a collective as opposed to working in silos.

“We’re happy that businesses have come as a collective to drive meaningful change in the area for the benefit of both residents and the business community. As we begin immersing ourselves in the formalisation of the cluster, we hope that more businesses will see the need for participation so we can have a stronger voice as a unit,” says Harvey.

NMBBC 10th Business Cluster
Standing (L to R): Denise van Huyssteen (Chamber), John Parry (Caltex Walmer), Julie Mundell (Gutsche Investments), Simon le Gras (SimonSays), Leonard Michau (Gutsche Investments) and Ashwin Daya (Chamber).
Sitting (L to R): Newly appointed chairperson Cameron Harvey (Elvee Properties), Claudia Daniels (ACSA) and Paola Horak (Chamber Cluster Board Lead).

The Launching Pad to the African Continent for the Global Automotive Industry

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The Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) welcomed the Minister of Finance, Honourable Enoch Godongwana’s recent Budget Vote statement, which encouraged the production of electric vehicles in South Africa. This initiative is a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions and building a sustainable, eco-friendly automotive industry in the country.

During his second year Budget Vote, the Minister announced that the government will introduce an investment allowance for new investments, beginning on the 1st of March 2026. This initiative, according to the Minister, seeks to allow producers to claim 150 per cent of qualifying investment spending on electric and hydrogen- powered vehicles in the first year.

Ms. Asanda Xawuka, Coega Executive Manager for Business Development, agrees and writes that such incentives will undoubtedly drive investment in the production of new energy vehicles and help propel South Africa to the forefront of the global electric vehicle market.

The announcement of the investment allowance for electric and hydrogen- powered vehicles is a game-changer for the automotive industry in the country. It recognises the potential for growth in the new energy vehicle (NEV) market and emphasises the importance of transitioning towards more sustainable forms of transportation. By providing this incentive, the government is signalling its commitment to supporting and promoting the production of electric vehicles in the country.

Moreover, the introduction of an investment allowance aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. Electric vehicles produce significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, making them an essential part of the solution to current environmental challenges.

By incentivising the production of electric vehicles, the government is not only promoting economic growth but also contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for future generations.

The international award-winning 9003-hectare Coega SEZ, which is located adjacent to the deepwater Port of Ngqura, a preferred investment destination by global companies and a gateway to Africa, is a new hub of the automotive industry in Africa and a prime location for manufacturing and industrial investment. The Coega SEZ is well positioned to benefit from the government’s push for electric vehicle production. Moreover, the SEZ offers incentives and support services to investors, against the back of existing world-class modern infrastructure, and the focus on electric vehicles complements its efforts to attract sustainable and environmentally conscious industries and investors.

The announcement regarding the investment allowance for electric and hydrogen- powered vehicles is a clear signal to investors that the South African government is serious about promoting sustainable and innovative industries. The financial incentives provided by the investment allowance will undoubtedly attract local and international investors to establish manufacturing facilities for electric vehicles, creating job opportunities and stimulating economic growth.

In conclusion, Coega encourages the production of NEVs in South Africa and welcomes the introduction of an investment allowance for spending on electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles in the first year.

Phozisa Manakaza Selected for JET Development Programme

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The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) is committed to empowering its young employees and ensuring that they have access to the necessary learning and career development opportunities to advance their skills. With the growing importance of adaptability in today’s ever-changing business environment, Coega understands the need to continually feed the minds of its employees and help build their skills.

In fact, Coega is thrilled to share the exciting news of Ms. Phozisa Manakaza (28), a young professional from the Coega Sustainability Business Unit, who has been selected to participate in the Just Energy Transition (JET) Skills Development Programme for Women in Energy in South Africa. This initiative aims to enhance women’s proficiency in renewable energy technologies and equip them with the essential skills for energy project management.

The JET Plan, a cornerstone of South Africa’s green energy and climate management policies, signifies a shift from fossil fuels to environmentally friendly, sustainable, and renewable energy sources. This initiative has evolved into the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JET-IP), a partnership between the governments of South Africa and Germany, France, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the European Union.

The JET Skills Development Programme aims to enhance women’s proficiency in renewable energy technologies and equip them with the essential skills for renewable energy project management. This initiative comprises 40 mid-career women in energy from various sectors across South Africa. Moreover, the programme’s curriculum is meticulously designed to align with the strategic objectives of the University of Johannesburg, the clean energy policies of the Republic of South Africa, and the goals of various Global Clean Energy Initiatives. Hence, participants are poised to emerge as catalysts for change and leaders in the South African energy sector, driving employment opportunities and spearheading clean energy initiatives for local communities.

Ms. Phozisa Manakaza, a dynamic young professional from the Coega Sustainability Business Unit, is currently participating in the JET Skills Development Programme.

Ms. Manakaza expressed her words of gratitude, sharing: “I am happy to participate in this programme to drive sustainable energy, a crucial catalyst guiding the world towards a more equitable and robust future. This initiative will enable me to contribute to managing energy supply and demand as well as investing in new energy technologies, aligning with the vision of Coega’s Sustainability Framework.”

Ms. Telly Chauke, Coega’s Chief Sustainability Officer, said that Ms. Manakaza’s participation in this programme demonstrates Coega’s commitment to investing in the next generation of employees and providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the ever-evolving energy industry.

“We are proud of Ms. Manakaza and her dedication to driving sustainable energy, and we look forward to seeing the impact she will make in the industry. Coega will continue to support and empower its young professionals as they strive to advance their skills and contribute to a more equitable and robust future,” concluded Ms. Chauke.

New Mthatha Dealership

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In an effort to offer personalised, professional, and premium service to customers the NTT Motor Group has opened a Volkswagen dealership in Mthatha.

Volkswagen has a total of 113 dealerships across South Africa.

“Our vision is to be South Africa’s most loved volume car brand and one of the leading passenger car brands in South Africa. The opening of the Mthatha dealership steers us in the right direction to achieve our goals and meet our targets. This year, Volkswagen will launch exciting new models such as the new Touareg, new Tiguan, new T-Cross and the full electric ID.4,” said Niels Wichmann, Division Head, Volkswagen Passenger Cars.

“NTT Motor Group’s dedication and commitment to investing in the Eastern Cape is illustrated by the development of a full Volkswagen dealership in Mthatha. We are not new to Mthatha as we have previously operated a Volkswagen Mastercars showroom since October 2015. We have enjoyed nine successful years in the region with the support of local customers. Our decision to develop and invest in Mthatha was taken to deliver a better service to our customers, who previously had to drive all the way to either Kokstad or to East London,” said Ansley Jacobs, Volkswagen Mthatha Dealership Principal.

The new dealership has employed 23 people, all of whom are Mthatha residents. These employees have undergone technical on-the-job training at the NTT Volkswagen East London dealership.

“We are passionate about our valued customers and professional staff who deliver a service matched by no other. This ethos is an integral part in the success of the NTT Motor Group. Each one of our more than 45 NTT dealerships in South Africa are actively involved in their respective communities. We aim to make a difference in the lives of our customers, our staff members, and the areas where we operate. We are looking forward to welcome our customers to our new premises to view this world class facility developed for the benefit of the Mthatha community,” concluded Jacobs.

540kg and a …. Motorbike

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The Boardwalk Hotel and Casino has donated a motorcycle to the Beachfront Safety Sector as part of the Sun International hospitality leader’s commitment to improving safety and security in the area.

The 200cc motorbike was previously used by Boardwalk to patrol its parking lot, but since the launch of Boardwalk Mall it has been out of commission. “We are happy to have donated this motorcycle so that it can be used by the South African Police Service to patrol the beachfront area, and keep both tourists and locals safe,” said Boardwalk General Manager, Tati Tsunke, who is also the chair of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber beachfront cluster.

“This is just one step towards strengthening the cluster to be responsive to the challenges facing it.” Boardwalk also made donations towards a CCTV system with cameras for the area from King’s Beach to Pollock Beach, and solar lighting for Shark Rock Pier.

Shaun Tappan, chairman of Beachfront Safety Sector thanked Boardwalk for the contribution and the hospitality giant’s commitment to fighting crime. “The motorbike will assist us in patrolling the hard to reach spots and reduce costs due to its low fuel consumption.”

Further efforts to maintain the beachfront included a beach clean-up on February 17, hosted by Boardwalk Mall, Boardwalk Hotel and Casino in collaboration with Pick n Pay, Spur Steak Ranches, Wildlife, The Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa and Don’t Waste.

Close to 200 people participated in the initiative, including learners from Pearson High, Kabega Primary, Brandwag High, Grey High, Westering High and Collegiate High, as well as employees from Checkers Boardwalk Mall, Jenni Gault International Jewellery Design and Madibaz Rugby.

A total of 12 wheelie bins of waste were collected – about 540kg – of which five contained glass, plastic, aluminium cans and paper for recycling.

Learners from Kabega Primary School were involved in the Boardwalk and Boardwalk Mall’s beach clean up

Related: https://mype.co.za/wessa-beach-clean-up-stats-from-2017-to-date/

Chamber and AIDC-EC driving sustainable growth and development in the Bay

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The memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber and Automotive Industry Development Centre Eastern Cape (AIDC-EC) represents a significant step towards driving sustainable growth and development, particularly within the automotive industry, while also benefiting other industries in the Nelson Mandela Bay region.

The MOU aims to foster collaborative efforts between the two parties, utilising existing forums and establishing a framework for joint initiatives focused on sustainable growth, job creation, and investment retention.

By joining forces, the Chamber and AIDC-EC aim to amplify their impact and make significant contributions to the economic landscape of the region.

“The MOU marks a pivotal milestone as it sets the stage for collaborative efforts between both parties as it establishes the framework for joint efforts in utilising forums created by both entities. This includes a focus on sustainable growth and development, with a particular emphasis on the automotive industry and industries as a whole in terms of retaining investment and creating jobs,” says Chamber chief executive, Denise van Huyssteen.

Van Huyssteen says the MOU also underpins the importance of this partnership as both parties seek to strengthen their strategic collaboration in utilising the forums created by both organisations in furtherance of not only sustainable growth and development of the automotive industry but industries as a whole.

“As part of the collaboration, AIDC-EC will actively take part in key initiatives organised by the Chamber, including the Investors Forum, the Electricity Task Team, and the Transport and Logistics Task Team.

This will ensure that they work jointly and collaborate in finding solutions to the ease of doing business such as water and electricity supply, including major challenges relating to transport and logistics, as these impact upon the local manufacturing sector and the local economy as a whole.”

The AIDC-EC will further play an active role in the Chamber’s Local Economy Reinvention Think Tank work streams relating to the automotive industry. The platform incorporates the participation of engineers and innovators from a range of various leading companies in the Metro. Advocacy and lobbying, which has, as its goal to create an enabling environment for the automotive industry, will serve as a support tool for AIDC-EC’s efforts to ensure sustainability in this key sector.

AIDCEC chief executive Thabo Shenxane welcomed the partnership as it reaffirms the importance of collaboration among key stakeholders in the Metro to help spur the city’s economic growth by addressing some of the challenges impacting the ease of doing business.

“Closer partnerships among key stakeholders, including the automotive industry, are seen as critical to spurring economic growth and addressing challenges impacting the ease of doing business in the region.

This includes preparing the automotive sector to become globally competitive, particularly in light of shifts towards new energy vehicle technology. The manufacturing sector plays a pivotal role in the province’s economy and job creation, and accounts for over 40% of the country’s produced vehicles and over 60% of its automotive exports,” says Shenxane.

“As such, it becomes very important that we find mutually beneficial synergies as key stakeholders so that the projected significant employment opportunities presented by a re-shaped value-chain for new energy vehicles are exploited by locally skilled candidates,” he says.

The Chamber has formed strategic national partnerships with organisations such as Naacam and the Presidential Climate Commission. Additionally, there are informal working relationships with Business Leadership South Africa, and efforts are underway to formalise a partnership with the South African Consumer Goods Council, including Business Against Crime.

The partnerships aim to leverage the collective strength of all key stakeholders to position the region as the hub of automotive nationally and in Africa, and to remain competitive in the evolving global automotive landscape. This is even more compelling for the Eastern Cape as the auto industry celebrates 100 years since the first automobile was assembled in a Ford plant in Gqeberha, further says Shenxane.

Denise van Huyssteen (Chamber CEO) and Thabo Shenxane (AIDC-EC CEO) signing a historic MOU to drive sustainable growth and development in Nelson Mandela Bay.