Guest

Gqeberha, South Africa, 12 December 2023 – Last month, the Coega Development Corporation joined the National Department of Health in welcoming the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME), to assess the progress of two critical Eastern Cape health projects with Coega as the appointed Implementing Agent of Choice. The two projects are amongst several infrastructure projects being implemented across the country and its outcomes are aligned to meeting the goals and objectives of the South African National Development Plan Vision 2030 and the National Infrastructure Plan 2050.

“The independent evaluations, undertaken on behalf of the DPME and the Office of the Presidency of the Republic of South Africa, focused on the Bambisana District Hospital and the Zithulele District Hospital, both located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa,” says Coega Programme Director for the Department of Health Portfolio, Ms. Gugulethu Moyo.

Mr. Thulani Masilela, DPME Outcomes Facilitator for health projects, says that the evaluations were efficient, and that significant progress had been made against the set milestones. “The first inspections were undertaken in June 2023, with the most recent inspection aimed at following up on progress and validating progress reports submitted by the Department of Health. We are the eyes and ears of the department. We don’t just accept reports – we validate them.”

Moyo expresses that the DPME recognised the progress achieved since their last visit, and that the social facilitation processes being undertaken on both of the projects were considered proactive and impactful.

“We found consistency between what we saw and what was reported. In some areas, contractors were ahead of schedule, which was impressive. Normally, a story is incomplete if there are no challenges; and there were only a handful of challenges owing to positive and well-organised social facilitation efforts,” adds Masilela.

According to Mr. Lwando Zeka, Coega Programme Social Facilitator, “Social facilitation plays a key role in ensuring that projects are supported in terms of the soft issues involved, such as community consultation. The priority is that the recipient communities realise benefits of the project in terms of SMME involvement, a stable labour environment, and ultimately, service delivery.

“We engage with ward councillors, hospital boards, traditional leaders, and the community at large to educate people about the projects taking up space in their communities. We had mass community meetings before both of these projects started, and subsequently established a project support committee, and appointed a community liaison officer through the contractor. With Bambisana, we encountered community resistance and related issues, but through social facilitation, we were able to convince the community to allow the project to move forward,” adds Zeka.

Based on 24 years’ expertise in infrastructure delivery, and with projects underway across the country and into Africa, Coega has demonstrated remarkable success spearheading infrastructure development and maintenance projects for public health, education, and other programmes by virtue of its vision and competence. A significant achievement lies in Coega’s ability to integrate economic opportunities within the execution of these projects, thereby fostering growth and prosperity in local communities. In terms of community benefits, collectively, the two projects have generated over 450 construction jobs, with over 350 people benefitting from training opportunities.

“Coega’s Programme team is doing fantastic work, with oversight being provided by the National DoH. They set aside their time for our visit and were very accommodating. There was a mutual understanding that this process is not just about building the hospitals, but about being accountable to communities in the broader scheme of service delivery. I appreciate Coega’s accountability. The DPME will continue to track progress with the construction of the two hospitals, until the projects are completed,” concludes Masilela.

The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) is a shining example of how a government-driven initiative can effectively accelerate sustainable socio-economic development in a region. Located in Gqeberha, in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, Coega has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to driving investment, infrastructure projects, skills development and business solutions, that not only benefit surrounding communities, but also help contribute to the overall development of the region and country, and thus, strives to reduce unemployment and poverty, aligned to the National Development Plan, Vision 2030, writes Dr. Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega’s Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications.

Coega was established in 1999 by the visionaries of the time, who should continue to be celebrated by the organisation and stakeholders, with the aim of creating an industrial development zone that would attract and support foreign and domestic investment, promote inclusive economic growth, provide skills training, and create sustainable jobs, in line with its mandate and vision. In pursuit of its bold mandate, Coega has evolved into multi-faceted business by diversifying its service offering to bolster its impact on the social and economic upliftment of the communities in its areas of operation. This diversification strategy is underpinned by the extension of in-house expertise and services to external institutions and consumers.

For example, Coega enables infrastructure development across the country and the African continent as an Infrastructure Implementing Agent of Choice and through its flagship Coega Africa Programme (CAP), which offers facilities maintenance, technical advisory, and the co-development of SEZs, industrial parks, dry ports, and public infrastructure in several African countries. Other commercial services offered to the public by Coega, include Coega Technologies and Consulting, Coega Travel Agency, the 4-Star Bluewater Bay Sunrise Hotel, the 3-Star Coega Vulindlela Accommodation and Conference Centre, and the Coega Customs Depot, to name a few.

Further, Coega has been instrumental in driving infrastructure projects that have had a positive impact on the development of the Eastern Cape Province based on 24 years’ expertise in infrastructure delivery and maintenance informed by the National Infrastructure Development Plan 2050. As an Infrastructure Implementing Agent of choice, during the 2022/23FY, Coega managed a growing client portfolio in excess of R5bn, and implements small-scale and mega infrastructure projects, across South Africa and the continent. Notable achievements include the almost R1 billion investment by the Eastern Cape Department of Health (ECDoH) in the Cecilia Makiwane Hospital precinct. More than 3000 jobs were created in the project and a further 29 emerging Small Micro Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) contractors benefited from the largest medical infrastructure development project in the Eastern Cape. Notable past projects include the Anton Lembede Maths, Science and Technology Academy, Pholela Special School for Learners with Special Educational Needs, Sipetu District Hospital and YWCA Special School.

Moreover, Coega’s role as an implementing agent provides opportunities through the inclusion and development of SMME work packages for infrastructure project delivery. Often, the SMMEs are led by entrepreneurs from local communities who have honed their artisanal skills to launch their own businesses and provide employment within their communities.

In terms of SMME development and support, Coega’s policy on SMME procurement spend is to ensure 33% SMME involvement in all infrastructure projects. During the 2022/23 financial year (FY), Coega surpassed this target by achieving an impressive 47.93% procurement spend on SMMEs, shining a spotlight on the value of skilled labour. In addition, Coega has achieved a Level 1 B-BBBEE Certificate, improving from Level 3, last year.

Coega’s commitment to social development is also evident in its various community initiatives, such as skills development programmes, education and healthcare support, and enterprise development projects. Investment attraction and infrastructure delivery both necessitate a diverse pool of skilled labour to achieve success.

Coega has responded to this need through its Skills Development Centre. The Coega Skills Development Centre plays a pivotal role in empowering individuals through skills development and ancillary services. The Centre facilitates needs-driven training, including short courses, learnerships, and apprenticeships, that speak to lifelong learning, employability, and entrepreneurship. Audited reports from the 2022/23 FY show that Coega provided training to over 3,932 individuals during the 12-month period.

One of Coega’s most significant achievements, however, remains the outstanding success of the Coega SEZ, which has become a hub for major investments in various sectors, including automotive, agro-processing, energy, business process outsourcing, and logistics, to name a few. This has not only created thousands of direct and indirect job opportunities but has also initiated ripple effects with a reach extending to the entire Eastern Cape Province and beyond to the rest of the country in terms of benefits. Coega’s commitment to driving investment has, in fact, resulted in billions of rands into the economy, leading to increased economic activity and a rise in living standards for many in the region. The recent Coega SEZ Census Report by Statistics South Africa outlines the Coega SEZ’s contribution to the region’s gross domestic product, exports, wages and salaries, etcetera.

The Coega SEZ is home to the world-class deepwater Port of Ngqura, which has bolstered the region’s logistical capabilities and has the potential to become a key gateway for trade in the Southern African region. Additionally, Coega has spearheaded various renewable energy projects in its SEZ, contributing to the country’s goal of diversifying its energy mix and reducing its carbon footprint. Coega SEZ energy investors include the R3.5-billion 342MW Dedisa Peaking Power Plant and the R105 billion Hive Hydrogen green ammonia project, with gas-to-power as well as green energy projects underway.

Currently, the Coega SEZ is home to 58 operational investors (and growing) across various sectors of industry with about 31% of its investments being FDI. Two of the largest employers within the SEZ, employing 2,277 and 1,032 respectively, are in the agroprocessing and business process outsourcing sectors. Many employed by these companies at Coega constitute youth and people from surrounding areas.

Coega’s commitment to socio-economic development is evident in all aspects of its operations, devised to create meaningful change in communities. The organisation’s multi-faceted approach, from skills development and training to SMME development, is testament to its vision to be a leading catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development. The Coega Development Corporation serves as an inspiration for sustainable socio-economic development in the Eastern Cape Province, and its impact extends beyond its immediate surroundings. It is a model that other regions and countries can look to for inspiration and guidance in their own development endeavours.

Human rights are central to United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) support to achieve the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals, as well as other commitments as agreed by member states, including South Africa. The Agenda 2030 seeks “to realise the human rights of all” and envisions a world of “universal respect for human rights and human dignity”. It is firmly anchored in human rights principles and standards including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the right to development.

The 10th of December is globally recognised as International Human Rights Day and, on this day, the Coega Development Corporation (Coega), along with the rest of the world, commemorates the United Nations’ 1948 adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The Declaration, which was drafted by a diverse group of individuals from different walks of life, is a document that protects the basic rights of all human beings regardless of ethnicity, religion, or sexuality, and is one of the documents that has informed South Africa’s Bill of Rights, to which Coega, along with the rest of the country, subscribes.

Coega, in alignment with global practice, observes International Human Rights Day as a means of highlighting the significance of human rights in society. Coega acknowledges that human rights are essential for the wellbeing and prosperity of every person, and that it is a collective responsibility to ensure that these rights are respected and upheld. Moreover, Coega recognises that the protection of human rights and promotion of social inclusion are essential contributors to good corporate governance, as espoused in the King IV Code and several ISO standards to which the Corporation subscribes.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a milestone document that proclaims the basic rights and freedoms that every person is entitled to. The Declaration includes civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights, and emphasises the inherent dignity and equal rights of all humanity. Therefore, International Human Rights Day serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding and protecting the rights and dignity of every individual, irrespective of their background, beliefs, or lifestyle.

South Africa, as a nation, has been deeply influenced by the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The country’s transition to democracy and the drafting of the Constitution, which includes a comprehensive Bill of Rights, were shaped by the values and standards set forth in the Declaration. Coega, as a public entity, is bound by the same constitutional obligations and is committed to upholding and promoting human rights in all its activities. On International Human Rights Day, Coega takes the opportunity to reflect on its role in advancing human rights within its sphere of influence. This includes creating an inclusive and diverse work environment, fostering respect and understanding among employees, and supporting initiatives that promote human rights and social justice within communities. Coega is also dedicated to conducting its business operations in a manner that respects and upholds the rights of all individuals, including employees, stakeholders, and the broader society.

Further, Coega recognises that the promotion of human rights is not only the responsibility of governments and institutions, but also of every individual. International Human Rights Day serves as a reminder for everyone to be vigilant and proactive in defending the rights of others and advocating for equality and justice. This may be achieved through education, advocacy, and standing in solidarity with marginalised and vulnerable groups.

International Human Rights Day is a time for both reflection and action. It is a day to celebrate the progress made in the protection of human rights, while also acknowledging the ongoing challenges and injustices that persist. Coega remains committed to playing its part in promoting and protecting human rights and encourages others to join in the global effort to build a more just and equitable world for all.

Coega remains dedicated to creating a safe and dignified workspace for its employees, within reasonable boundaries as it pertains to issues of good governance and legislative compliance as a public entity.

All people have rights, and all employees have rights, and with this comes the responsibility to respect the rights of others as well as the regulatory and contractual boundaries within which we all operate. Finding this balance is especially important for the effective functioning of a public entity entrusted to advance public good.

The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) and its Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) security service provider, Falcon Security Group, came together last week Thursday, 30 November 2023, to honour and celebrate the invaluable contributions of its security personnel and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to business continuity and public safety in and around the Coega SEZ. The celebration was marked by an awards ceremony at the Coega Vulindlela Accommodation and Conference Centre (VACC) in Gqeberha, to recognise SAPS officials, Falcon Security personnel, and the Coega Command and Control Centre team for collaborating on successful crime prevention strategies over the last quarter.

The joint awards ceremony contributes to an ongoing partnership commitment to promote crime prevention efforts in and around the Coega SEZ. The event follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Coega and the SAPS Swartkops Precinct in July 2023, to promote partnership in ensuring a safe trading and business environment for investors and tenants of the Coega SEZ.

During the event, representatives from Coega and the Falcon Security Group expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the hard work and commitment shown by the security personnel and SAPS in upholding safety standards and protecting the community.

Mr. Thabiso Phetuka, Director of the Falcon Security Group, highlights the importance of partnership in safeguarding facilities to ensure continuity of operations in the Coega SEZ: “We have a serious crime pandemic in the country and the economic hardships are not making it easier. We welcome this event. It is important to acknowledge and thank the men and women who risk their own safety in the line of duty to ensure the protection of people and equipment that add economic value to our region. Coega SEZ is one of our biggest commodities and we must protect the people and assets within it,” says Phetuka.

Safety and security are fundamental aspects in the design, construction, and operation of an SEZ, in relation to Sustainable Development Goal 11, in which safety, resilience and sustainable development is emphasised.

Coega Security Manager, Mr. Neville Andrew, explains the value of effective collaboration between stakeholders in the security space: “The equipment and property located within SEZ precincts continue to be safer than surrounding areas for numerous reasons, namely, close collaboration with law enforcement and controlled access to the zones. Our approach to reducing crime or security involves organisational, mechanical, and natural methods to control access, enhance natural surveillance and territoriality, and support legitimate activity.”

The Coega SEZ is ISO certified in quality, health, safety, and environmental management, as well as integrated ICT management systems, with a dedicated Command and Control Centre housed within the organisation’s Operations Business Unit at the Coega Business Centre in Zone 1 of the SEZ.

“We continue to strengthen the partnership between the SAPS, our security structures, and the Coega Command and Control Centre, to create a security- positive environment for all investors, tenants, employees and visitors, and also celebrate the successes of crime prevention strategies,” concludes Andrew.

Ms. Veronica Monyobo, Coega Development Corporation Acting Chief Knowledge and Digital Officer, presented on the Crucial Role of Digital Infrastructure Investments in Closing South Africa’s Digital Skills Gap, during the 17th ICT Summit, at the East London International Convention Centre.

Digital transformation has become essential for businesses to remain competitive in today’s ever-changing technological landscape. In recent years, we have witnessed a rapid transformation in the business world, with many companies adopting modern technologies to streamline their operations and improve their bottom line.

As industries and businesses continue to evolve, adapt, and leverage the ever- changing technological landscape, Coega has also recognised the importance of digital services for the growth and success of these industries.

Coega, in fact, has long been a driving force for economic growth and development in the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and the wider Eastern Cape region.

One of the key initiatives undertaken by Coega Technologies and Consulting is the development of high-speed broadband networks in the Coega SEZ. The network provides businesses with access to reliable, high-speed internet connectivity, enabling them to take advantage of a wide range of digital services and technologies that are crucial for their success. This includes access to cloud- based services, data analytics, and real-time communication tools, that can help businesses streamline their operations and improve their overall productivity.

In addition to the high-speed broadband network, Coega Technologies and Consulting has also been instrumental in the development of state-of-the-art data centres in the region. These data centres provide businesses with secure and reliable storage and processing capabilities for their data, ensuring that they can effectively manage and analyse the vast amounts of information generated by their operations. This is particularly important for industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and energy, where the ability to process and analyse large volumes of data in real-time can provide a significant competitive advantage.

Further, Coega Technologies and Consulting has also been actively involved in the implementation of smart technologies in the region. This includes the deployment of advanced sensors, automation systems, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices that can help businesses optimise their operations, reduce costs, and improve their overall efficiency.

For example, smart technologies can be used to monitor and control energy usage in manufacturing facilities, track the movement of goods in a logistics warehouse, or optimise the performance of equipment in a power plant.

Overall, Coega’s recognition of the importance of digital services in the growth and success of industries in the Coega SEZ and the wider Eastern Cape region is a testament to its commitment to driving economic development through innovation and technology. By investing in high-speed broadband networks, data centres, and smart technologies, Coega Technologies and Consulting has been instrumental in providing businesses with the digital infrastructure and services they need to thrive in today’s digital economy. As a result, the region is well- positioned to attract investment, create jobs, and foster sustainable economic growth for years to come.