MyPE Business

All About Business in Nelson Mandela Bay

You are here: Home / Archives for Guest

Guest

South Africa Top Employer for a Third Year in a Row

by Leave a Comment

Gqeberha – Isuzu Motors South Africa (ISUZU) is proud to be recognised as a Top Employer in South Africa for a third year in a row by the internationally recognised Top Employers Institute. This prestigious certification highlights ISUZU’s commitment to excellence in employee wellness and fostering a positive and inclusive workplace centred around the core value of Mutual Growth.

Mongezi Hermans, Senior Vice President of Human Capital at ISUZU, stated, “At ISUZU, we believe that our people are our greatest asset. Our human resources best practices are designed to create an environment where employees can develop and grow. We focus on continuous development, diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute to our collective success.”

The certification process involves a rigorous evaluation of various Human Resources practices, including talent strategy, learning and development, leadership development, and employee engagement. ISUZU’s ability to meet and exceed these standards showcases commitment to fostering diverse talents with a growth mindset through collaboration that creates value.

Top Employers Institute CEO David Plink says: “Consistency in a not-so-consistent world? Amidst constant change—through technological advances, economic shifts, and evolving social landscapes—it is inspiring to see people and organisations rise to the challenge. This year, the Top Employers Certification Programme highlights the dedication of our Top Employers as they continue to set the standard, consistently delivering world-class HR strategies and practices. These Top Employers strive to foster growth and wellbeing, all while enriching the world of work. We are proud to celebrate these people-first leaders and teams as the Top Employers for 2025!”

ISUZU’s recognition as a Top Employer for a third year in a row underscores the company’s mission of creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where employees are empowered and can grow. The company’s focus on innovation, inclusivity, and employee well-being continues to drive its success and reputation as an employer of choice.

Supporting Skills Development in the Construction Sector

by Leave a Comment

Mr. Luvuko Nkwenkwe, Employment Relations Coordinator, Coega Human Capital Solutions. In the evolving landscape of South Africa’s construction industry, the Coega DevelopmentCorporation (Coega) is taking significant strides to address skills shortages and enhance project delivery. As articulated by Mr. Luvuko Nkwenkwe, Coega Employment Relations Coordinator at Coega Human Capital Solutions, the organisation supports the Construction Industry Development Board’s (CIDB) B.U.I.L.D Programme. This initiative is important in cultivating a skilled workforce while simultaneously bolstering the capacity to deliver critical infrastructure.

The B.U.I.L.D Programme operates with a dual mandate: it seeks to enhance the construction sector’s ability to provide essential infrastructure and to develop a competent workforce equipped to meet current and future demands. By advancing developmental opportunities and enhancing project quality and productivity, the Programme plays a crucial role in driving economic growth throughout the construction sector. The government has recognised it as the benchmark for skills development via infrastructure contracts, underscoring its importance.

As a trusted public entity and operator of the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ), Coega has prioritised the effective implementation of the B.U.I.L.D Programme. Acknowledging the challenges posed by skills shortages, Coega advocates for robust strategies within its Human Capital Solutions (HCS) services to address these gaps.

HCS acts as the custodian of Coega’s labour management support systems, which include maintaining a comprehensive job seekers’ database and facilitating skills training. By spearheading targeted training interventions, Coega aims to close the construction skills gap, enhance local labour absorption, and elevate the technical capabilities of the local workforce.

To ensure the successful implementation of the B.U.I.L.D Programme and foster sustainable socio-economic development, Coega has adopted a proactive stance. This commitment not only opens doors for accredited skills development but also empowers job seekers while strengthening the construction workforce engaged in Coega’s infrastructure projects, such as bulk water and sewer infrastructure projects in the SEZ.

A key aspect of the B.U.I.L.D Programme is its mandate for minimum skills development targets for contractors. In this regard, Coega actively encourages and monitors compliance. Contractors can meet these development standards through various pathways, including facilitating that construction personnel obtain part- or full occupational qualifications, trade qualifications that lead to apprenticeship trade tests, national diplomas, or professional registration with recognised bodies.

To support these efforts, Coega provides a range of skills programmes such as Learnerships, Apprenticeships, Internships, Recognition of Prior Learning, and Artisanal Trade Testing in partnership with Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) when targeted SETA funding is available.

Moving forward, Coega HCS remains committed to leveraging its strengths and expertise in implementing this regulatory framework aimed at skilling and upskilling the construction workforce.

14th Year in a Row

by Leave a Comment

Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has once again been honoured with the Top Employer certification. This is a result of continued pursuits to create a healthy working environment which fosters development and success for their people. VWGA has received this accolade every year since 2011 from the Top Employers Institute.

The Top Employers Institute is a globally recognised organisation that is entrusted with the responsibility of certifying companies based on the results of an HR Best Practices Survey. This survey covers multiple areas like Wellbeing, Diversity, Learning & Development, Employee Listening and other relevant considerations.

The announcement of the 2025 Top Employers was made on 16 January. Over 2 400 companies worldwide were recognised as Top Employers, 150 of them being South African companies.

Overall, VWGA achieved an impressive score of 95%, an improvement from 92% in the previous year. Key areas of achievement noted included the categories of Leadership, Culture change, remote working environment, and HR digitalisation journey.

“As the largest private employer in Nelson Mandela Bay, we take pride in fostering an environment where our people can thrive and succeed. We have been receiving this accolade for 14 years now, and every year we are honoured to accept this as it is a testament to our commitment to placing our people first,” said Russell Coleman, HR Director at VWGA. “Our 4 000 people’s wellbeing is a priority and as such, we will continue creating a culture which is conducive to growth, opportunity and success for our people,” Coleman concluded.

Business Chamber and Harambee Partner to Boost Skills Development and Employment Creation in the Metro

by Leave a Comment

The Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber (Chamber) has announced a strategic partnership with Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator (Harambee), to collaborate with key stakeholders in helping to address the technical skills shortage in the metro, with a particular focus on creating employment opportunities for the youth.

Through this collaboration, Harambee, which is a leading South African social enterprise that works with partners to innovate solutions will support the Chamber in establishing a Skills Development Desk.  The initial priority will be to focus on mapping current and future industry demand through a skills audit, and developing a demand led skilling strategy that includes matching upskilled youth and displaced workers with job opportunities.

In addition, the Desk will serve as the action arm of the Chamber’s Local Economy Reinvention Think Tank’s workstream. By adopting a demand-led approach, this initiative seeks to effectively reduce youth unemployment in Nelson Mandela Bay, identifying necessary skills and coordinating the implementation of specific training interventions.

Denise van Huyssteen, Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber, noted that a 2023 Department of Higher Education and Training report showed South Africa has over a 50% skills mismatch. “The major employers in the Bay are in the manufacturing sector and based on their feedback, there is a technical skills shortage. This often results in companies having to import skills from other parts of the country and other countries, and also poaching talent from one another. The demand is for people who have Mathematics core at a matric level and the acumen to train in technical fields to fill critical positions such as engineers, artisans, electricians, fitters, technicians, software developers, data science and cloud computing,” said Van Huyssteen. “Unemployment runs at unacceptably high levels but yet there is a dire technical skills shortage.  It is therefore vital that this gap is closed. This partnership with Harambee, alongside the Eastern Cape Development Corporation, is a catalyst for directly responding to industry skills requirements and by doing so, retaining and creating employment opportunities.”

Following a thorough interview process that involved both the Chamber and Harambee, Priscilla Fry has been appointed as the programme manager for the skills development desk. Priscilla brings over 20 years working experience in the skills development ecosystem where she previously served as a training and accreditation manager at AIDC-EC.

Harambee’s Chief Opportunity Development Officer, Stephen Shields, expressed that: “This partnership aligns with Harambee’s broader mission to transform the South African labour market by working with diverse partners to reduce the barriers that young people face to enter the labour market. We are working together to promote inclusive hiring with employers, increase access to earning opportunities, provide demand-led skilling and ultimately contribute to local economic development.”

The Chamber’s Skills Development Desk will officially be launched next month.

Building the Ranger Engines

by Leave a Comment

Ford’s Struandale Engine Plant in Nelson Mandela Bay has played an instrumental role in the success of the locally assembled Ford Ranger – both in South Africa and in the more than 100 markets it is exported to around the world.

All the engines used in the Silverton-built Ford Ranger are proudly manufactured at the Gqeberha facility, using the latest technologies and advanced quality management systems to ensure the highest level of performance, reliability and durability that Ranger is renowned for.

This video provides insight into the Struandale operations which currently produces three different diesel engine programmes, comprising the silky smooth and powerful 3.0L V6 Diesel, the refined and efficient 2.0L Single Turbo and 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel, as well as the renowned 2.2L and 3.2L Duratorq TDCi.

10 interesting facts on the Struandale Engine Plant:

  1. This plant opened in 1964, making it the first dedicated engine assembly plant in South Africa
  2. It has produced 11 different engine programmes over the past 60 years: Essex V6, V4, Kent, 2.0L OHC, CVH, Pte, Mazda B-Series, RoCam, and current production of the 2.2L/3.2L Duratorq TDCi, 2.0L Single Turbo/Bi-Turbo and 3.0L V6 Diesel
  3. The Struandale plant machines the cylinder heads for the 3.0L V6 Diesel engine, and assembles the engines
  4. In a Ford-first, the same assembly line also produces the 2.2L and 3.2L Duratorq TDCi engines. The combined installed capacity of this line is 130 000 engines per annum. It can produce one engine every 120 seconds
  5. Production of the Duratorq TDCi engines includes component machining of the cylinder head, block and crankshaft
  6. The popular 2.0L Single Turbo and 2.0L Bi-Turbo engines are produced on a separate assembly line with an installed capacity of 120 000 engines per year – or one engine every 134 seconds
  7. The assembly lines feature multiple fully automated robotic and camera stations that ensure the highest level of production quality
  8. Every engine produced is subjected to a Cold Test cycle to validate quality. In this test the engine is run at pressure without being started. Additionally, rigorous dynamometer testing is conducted on-site at scheduled intervals to evaluate performance and durability
  9. The entire birth history of each engine is recorded with Ford’s online Quality Management Systems. This documents each step of the manufacturing and assembly process for traceability and quality
  10. In August 2023, the Struandale plant produced its 4-millionth engine – a remarkable achievement!

Applications Open for the Coega Maths and Science Programme Class of 2025

by Leave a Comment

The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) is excited to announce that applications for the Coega Maths and Science Programme (MSP) 2025 intake are now open.

This flagship Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiative is designed to provide matriculants with a unique opportunity to enhance their Grade 12 Mathematics and Physical Science results, enabling them to pursue academic excellence and unlock career opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

Ms. Sylvia Graham, CSI Manager says: “Since its launch in 2013, the programme has had a transformative impact on learners’ lives. Many participants have significantly improved their results, gained entry into tertiary institutions for their chosen courses, and excelled in STEM careers, contributing to the nation’s socioeconomic development.

This year, the programme will recruit 100 learners who will benefit from the expertise of dedicated facilitators and a tailored curriculum. The goal is to help learners achieve improved matric results, ensuring eligibility for tertiary studies and opportunities in STEM fields,” says Graham.

Application Details

Applicants must submit the following documents: A copy of their Matric results statement and a certified copy of their South African Identity Document.

Applications can be hand delivered to the Coega Human Capital Solutions Building in Zone 4, Coega Special Economic Zone, Gqeberha, or sent via email to eldon.september@coega.co.za.

Application Window: 15 – 24 January 2025. Preference: Residents of Nelson Mandela Bay.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the MSP, applicants must have completed Grade 12 and achieved a minimum of 20% in Mathematics and Physical Science and passed all other subjects. Priority will be given to 2024 matriculants. If space allows, 2023 matriculants will also be considered.

Programme Details

The 2025 MSP classes will begin on 3 February 2025 and run from Monday to7 Friday, 08h00 to 13h00, with potential adjustments based on educational needs.

Through this initiative, Graham adds that Coega continues to empower South Africa’s youth, equipping them with the tools to achieve their dreams and drive the country’s progress in STEM industries.

167 084 Vehicle Record

by Leave a Comment

Kariega – Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has concluded 2024 on a high note, by celebrating its all-time production record of 167 084 vehicles.

This is the highest number of vehicles produced at the Kariega plant since the first Beetle rolled off the production line 73 years ago. The new production record surpasses the previous production record of 161 954 vehicles, which was achieved in 2019.

Of the 167 084 vehicles produced, 131 485 units were Polos which are exported to over 30 global markets and 35 599 vehicles were Polos and Polo Vivos for the local market.

“This milestone must be attributed to the dedication and diligence of our 4 000 employees and the unwavering support of our customers and stakeholders,” said Ulrich Schwabe, VWGA Production Director. “As we continue to expand our footprint both locally and globally, we remain focused on innovation, sustainability, and delivering quality products which meet the needs of our diverse markets,” added Schwabe.

The new production record comes at a time of continued investment in VWGA’s production infrastructure, employees and product offerings. In April 2024, VWGA announced a R4 billion investment into the Kariega Plant for the introduction of a third model, to be built alongside the Polo and Polo Vivo from 2027.

Plant Kariega is the sole supplier of the Polo GTI for global markets. In July 2024, the plant became the sole supplier of the Polo for European and Asia Pacific markets.

“2024 has been a good year for Plant Kariega. In October 2024, the plant recorded its highest number of units produced in a single month with 16 597 units, exceeding the previous record of 16 453 vehicles set in October 2019 when the previous production record was achieved,” concluded Schwabe.

Highlighting Coega’s Key Achievements

by Leave a Comment

The Coega Development Corporation (Coega), a Schedule 3(d) public entity in terms of the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No. 1 of 1999), is pleased to announce the publication of its Integrated Annual Report for the 2023/2024 (IAR 2023/24), as authorised by the Eastern Cape Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism and adopted by the Provincial Legislature. The IAR provides a comprehensive overview of Coega’s performance during the 2023/2024 financial year (FY), including financial performance, strategic achievements, sustainability initiatives, and stakeholder engagement.

“Coega achieved significant milestones over the reporting period, including a revenue of R642.1 million across its operating activities, while 60 operational investors have to date contributed a combined investment value of R12.3 billion. Notably, Coega contributed to the creation of over 14,280 cumulative jobs and provided training to over 4,374 individuals during the financial year,” shared Coega Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Rodger Hill.

Coega experienced significant growth across key sectors, including automotive, manufacturing, agro-processing, logistics, and business process outsourcing. This momentum resulted in the signing of 11 new investors during the 2023/24 FY. These investors pledged a combined investment value of R840.39 million, demonstrating Coega’s continued success in attracting and securing significant investments.

Notable project developments during the 2023/2024 FY included the R3 billion Stellantis Group investment announcement (which is currently under construction), the completion of the Orion Engineered Carbons Tank Farm, the Benteler Extension in the Nelson Mandela Bay Logistics Park, and the 542m² expansion of the Discovery Health facility at the Business Process Outsourcing Park in Zone 4 of the Coega Special Economic Zone.

Coega also significantly exceeded its SMME procurement target, achieving a 69.41% spend to SMME’s with a total value of R1.027 billion. This includes R364.587 million spent with black women-owned businesses, R97.929 million with youth-owned businesses, and R501.848 million with black men-owned businesses.

“These achievements underscore Coega’s commitment to excellence, as evidenced by the retention of its Level 1 B-BBEE Certificate and the receipt of a 5th consecutive clean audit report from the Auditor-General of South Africa,” concluded Hill.

Woodlands Dairy’s First Choice Wins Gold Pack 2024 Award With Tethered Cap Innovation

by Leave a Comment

Woodlands Dairy, the first in South Africa to introduce tethered caps on their First Choice ESL milk cartons, claimed top honours at the prestigious Gold Pack Awards held at Vodaworld in Midrand. This innovative achievement was made possible through their strategic partnership with DLPG and Svalinn.

Says Marisa Maccaferri, Marketing Executive for Woodlands Dairy and First Choice: “This award solidifies Woodlands Dairy’s position as an industry leader in sustainability, innovation, and consumer-focused solutions. It underscores our commitment to sustainability and motivates us to continue pushing boundaries, striving to exceed our environmental goals for a brighter, greener future.”

Leashni Kissoon, Key Account Manager at Liquid Cartons of Diversified Liquid Packaging Group (DLPG), highlights the importance of collaboration in achieving this milestone: “The Gold Pack Award for Woodlands Dairy’s First Choice ESL milk cartons is a proud milestone for DLPG and Svalinn. It celebrates our shared dedication to sustainable innovation and strengthens our partnership with Woodlands Dairy. This collaboration highlights the transformative impact of solutions like the CueCap Eco+ and showcases Woodlands Dairy’s leadership in the industry. Sustainability, innovation, and partnerships are at the heart of our DNA.”

Tethered caps, now mandated by EU regulations, represent a forward-thinking solution to enhance cap collection and recycling, addressing a critical aspect of waste management. Made from 100% renewable materials, these caps remain attached to cartons, reducing the risk of litter, simplifying recycling, and minimising plastic waste. This innovative design not only promotes a circular economy but also significantly lowers the environmental footprint of Woodlands Dairy’s packaging, setting new sustainability benchmarks in the dairy industry.

Maccaferri explains that implementing the tethered caps involved overcoming technical challenges to ensure compatibility with existing equipment. “From concept to execution, we worked closely with DLPG and Svalinn to successfully integrate the CueCap Eco+ into our production processes. The caps underwent rigorous testing to meet safety and convenience standards while maintaining our environmental focus.”

The collaboration highlights DLPG and Svalinn’s vision to bring world-class sustainable innovations to South Africa. Kissoon adds: “By integrating CueCap Eco+ into eco-friendly gable top cartons, we’re not only enhancing consumer convenience but also elevating the eco-friendly profile of this packaging. Our partnership with Woodlands Dairy aligns perfectly with our goal to advance sustainable packaging solutions that reduce waste and improve recycling efficiency.”

Maccaferri credits DLPG’s dedication to sustainability: “Their partnership with Svalinn allowed us to access eco-friendly packaging that meets our sustainability goals without compromising on quality. This collaboration has been key to delivering a product that aligns with our environmental objectives while ensuring consumer satisfaction.”

Building on the success of the tethered caps, Woodlands Dairy and First Choice remain focused on further reducing environmental impact and enhancing consumer convenience. “We plan to expand the use of renewable materials and continue advancing our sustainability efforts. Collaboration is key, and we’re forging partnerships to bring innovative, eco-friendly solutions to market. Through these efforts, we aspire to set an industry example, promoting the adoption of packaging solutions that prioritise both the planet and the consumer,” Maccaferri concludes.

Charity Golf Day proceeds provide hope to inner-city children

by Leave a Comment

There is a brighter future for inner-city children living in the Quigney area of East London thanks to funds raised through the 2024 Algoa Cares Charity Golf Day hosted with Meyers Motors, ISUZU.

The beneficiary was Future Roses Educare, which supports parents who cannot afford to pay for childcare services and early childhood development.

The funds raised at the charity golf day were used to purchase a range of items, including an alarm system with the next two years’ monitoring paid in full; mattresses courtesy of Midlanes & Sealy, lunch boxes, activity books, art kits, toys, a freezer, laptop, and a stove.

“Once again the East London business community and golfers have made a difference in people’s lives by opening their hearts and wallets to a local charity,” says Algoa FM marketing manager Lesley Geyer.

“By investing in programmes and tools that foster growth and development, these contributions will empower the children and provide them with the hope and support they need to break the cycle of poverty,” says Nomlindo Beja, founder of Future Roses Educare in Quigney, East London.

“Every item purchased is a step toward transforming their lives and creating a foundation for a better tomorrow.”

Educational supplies, books, and technology, will create opportunities for learning and personal development, helping the children build a brighter future, she says.

“On behalf of Future Roses Educare and the children we serve, I extend our heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you who participated in our golf day.

“Your presence and generosity have not only made the event a success but has also brought hope and joy to the children under our care.

“Thank you for your kindness, compassion, and for taking the time to play a role in changing lives. We truly couldn’t do this without you!”