Coega

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.

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.

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.

The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) recently welcomed the Global Auxiliary of Companies’ (Global Aux) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Mika’il Ali Kote, to the Coega Special Economic Zone. The visit aimed to advance co-project development and technical advisory cooperation for Nigeria’s Gulu Integrated Agro-processing Industrial Park (GIAIP), under the umbrella of the Coega Africa Programme (CAP).

Building on the momentum of the South Africa-Nigeria Binational Commission (BNC) held in Cape Town on 28 November 2024, which aimed to enhance bilateral relations, Mr. Mika’il Ali Kote, CEO of Global Aux, expressed his enthusiasm about his visit to Coega.

“I have been anticipating this visit and engagement with Coega for a while. We are here to advance our initial partnership discussions relating to the Gulu Industrial Park and other developments in proximity to and into northern Nigeria. The ultimate objective is to replicate what Coega SEZ has achieved, but in Nigeria,” said Ali Kote.

Mr. Idriss Mouchili, CAP Director, emphasised the need for concrete action steps to advance the project in line with CAP’s mission to intensify business outreach efforts outside of South Africa. These steps include a site visit to assess project scope and feasibility, the formalisation of a Project Development and Management Agreement, the development of a comprehensive Project Master Plan, and the exploration of potential funding sources and requirements, to name a few.

Coega currently has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Global Aux, complemented by a Technical Partnership and Co-development Agreement. A Project Development and Management Agreement is anticipated in the near future.

Dr. Siyabonga Simayi, Coega’s Programme Director of Client Solutions, welcomed the partnership between Coega and Global Aux.

“As countries seek to enhance their competitiveness, the establishment of special economic zones and industrial parks has emerged as a key strategic tool for attracting sustainable investment and fostering economic development. Recently, Coega attended an SEZ conference in Kenya, where the importance of collaboration between African companies was emphasised.

We welcome this collaboration with Global Aux, and we are excited to engage with likeminded entities to improve continental integration,” said Simayi.
In conclusion, Coega is open to collaborating with African nations to address trade and investment challenges and create a conducive environment for business growth.

As the world commemorates International Human Rights Day today, under the theme “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” the Coega Development Corporation (Coega) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding human rights and promoting social justice. This significant day marks the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, a cornerstone document that enshrines the fundamental rights and freedoms of all individuals, writes Mr. Craig Luckman, Coega’s Acting Unit Head of Human Resources.

International Human Rights Day serves as a call to action, urging individuals to be vigilant defenders of human rights and to advocate for equality and justice. This can be achieved through education, advocacy, and promoting the advancement of marginalised and vulnerable groups. It is a time for reflection on the progress made in the protection of human rights, and a commitment to address the ongoing challenges and injustices that persist.

As a responsible corporate citizen, Coega is deeply committed to upholding human rights principles and promoting social justice. The organisation’s strategy is aligned with these values, emphasising equality, respect, and inclusivity in the workplace. By fostering a positive and inclusive work environment, Coega empowers its employees to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the organisation’s success.

At Coega, we prioritise fair labour practices, ensuring equitable compensation and benefits for all employees. The organisation is also committed to providing equal opportunities for career advancement and professional development, regardless of gender, race, or background.

Coega’s strategy is deeply rooted in the principles of Human Rights with a focus on promoting equality and respect within the workplace. The Corporation strives to create an inclusive and diverse work environment, fosterrespect among employees, and support 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.

The protection of human rights and promotion of social inclusion are essential contributors to good corporate governance. Coega recognises this and subscribes to several ISO standards and the King IV Code on Corporate Governance, which espouse these values. Moreover, human rights are central to the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) support for achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals. The Agenda 2030 seeks to realise the human rights of all and envisions a world of universal respect for human rights and human dignity.

As we commemorate International Human Rights Day, we are reminded that all people have rights, and all employees have rights. With this comes the responsibility to respect the rights of others, as well as the regulatory and contractual boundaries within which we all operate.

In conclusion, 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.

Gqeberha, South Africa, 04 December 2024 – The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) hosted its 2024 local roadshow at the Coega Vulindlela Accommodation and Conference Centre (VACC), in Gqeberha today. The “Transform Your Community, Transform Your Life” themed event brought together 200 participants, inspiring them to unlock the potential and value of Coega-led projects and opportunities.

Mr. Andile April, Coega’s Communications and Stakeholder Relations Manager, remarked on the success of the local stakeholder roadshow.

“It was a valuable opportunity to connect with our stakeholders, local communities and business owners, to discuss exciting development opportunities underway at Coega. We look forward to building on these strong relationships and continuing to drive growth and innovation in the region with the communities we serve,” said April.

Registered attendees, comprising the business fraternity, local community members and key stakeholders gained valuable insights into the Coega SEZ’s investment promotion strategies, infrastructure development opportunities, supply chain and B-BBEE processes, SMME development and support programmes, skills training initiatives, catalytic corporate social investment projects, and labour recruitment procedures.

Several major projects were showcased in terms of SMME procurement spend, labour absorption within the SEZ, skills development opportunities and infrastructure projects being implemented, including the Coega Return Effluent Scheme, Stellantis Manufacturing Plant, Bulk Sewer Project, and various public infrastructure projects for fencing and facilities.

Local Gqeberha businessman, Mr. Arthur Dayimani, described his experience at the Coega Stakeholder Roadshow as informative. “The session was quite informative. From the information received, businesspeople have a better idea of how to do business with Coega. We hope the issues we’ve raised will assist Coega in helping us grow our businesses. We look forward to sessions like this in the future,” shared Dayimani.

Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Councillor, Mr. Bubele Matenjwa, concluded with sentiments about the importance of local stakeholder engagements in the broader scheme of sustainable socio-economic development.

“We appreciate Coega for hosting this stakeholder engagement. When the President announced that we are establishing special economic zones, Coega was mandated to attract investment. However, they also execute the additional responsibility of skills and SMME development to benefit local communities. The feedback that we as government receive from engagements like this improves our ability to better address challenges and leverage opportunities within local communities. Thank you to everyone who has participated today,” said Cllr. Matenjwa.

Coega is committed to engaging with stakeholders to ensure the success and sustainability of projects and initiatives in line with its vision to be the leading catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development.

The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, today, celebrated the graduation and enhanced employability of over 30 National Rural Youth Service Corps (NARYSEC) trainees at the Coega Business Centre, in Gqeberha. This milestone is the outcome of successful collaboration between Coega and the DALRRD following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in April 2024.

Following the signing of the MoU, the cohort of graduate artisans is the first to successfully qualify as maintenance and repair workers through the Coega Skills Development Centre (SDC), with close to 50% securing opportunities through Coega’s infrastructure development portfolio and three being absorbed by the contractor.

Ms. Nomtandazo Moyo, DALLRD Deputy Director-General, expressed her excitement at the positive outcome of the long-standing partnership between Coega and the DALRRD.

“The partnerships between DALRRD, Coega and other stakeholders are important, not only in the context of development in general, but they are a positive indicator of being responsive, effective, and sustainable in ultimately contributing to the wellbeing and prosperity of the youth here today. They will become leaders of industries and contribute to the local economy,” said Moyo.

Funded by the DALRRD, the graduates underwent a 14-week accredited course in general maintenance and repairing at the Coega SDC, earning 82 credits toward a National Qualification Framework qualification.

Ms. Mokgaetši Sebothoma, Coega’s Executive Manager for Corporate Services, under which the Coega SDC resides, remarked on the importance of artisanal and vocational training in the broader scheme of socio-economic development: “The Coega Skills Development Centre offers training programmes that are designed to address the skills gap and create employment opportunities. By equipping individuals with in-demand skills, we are empowering them to contribute to the economy and improve their livelihoods.”

NARYSEC Training Programme Graduate, Ms. Zodwa Mfama, shared her experience: “I am grateful to my mentors for supporting me on this journey. It was a challenging experience, and I wanted to give up. However, it worked out in the end. I am here today employed, and I am able to put food on the table at home,” said Mfama.

The aim of Coega’s skills development courses is to empower unemployed youth by enhancing their employability and fostering entrepreneurial potential. Funding is a key enabler for the Coega SDC to execute its training mandate. Currently, the SDC solicits funding in the form of conditional grants from various SETAs. When funding is approved, Coega’s Recruitment and Placement Unit scouts the Gateway-2-Opportunity (G2O) database for suitable candidates. Public and private sector entities can enlist the services of the SDC on a fee-for-service basis.

Technology has become an indispensable tool for driving economic growth and business competitiveness. At the Coega Development Corporation (Coega), we recognise the transformative power of technology to attract investment and accelerate socio-economic development and have thus integrated it into every aspect of our operations, writes Ms. Magama Makgamatho, Coega’s Chief Knowledge and Digital Officer, who recently addressed delegates as a guest speaker at the 18th Annual ICT Summit in East London.

For over 25 years, Coega has been at the forefront of leveraging technology to attract and support local and foreign direct investment to the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ).

With over 60 operational investors, our state-of-the-art data centres provide the essential infrastructure for businesses to thrive in the digital age. By offering cloud computing, software as a service, and platform as a service, we empower businesses to innovate and scale their services with ease.

Over and above cloud computing and services, Coega is agile to the impact of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) in revolutionising industries. Coega’s world-class infrastructure, including high-speed fibre connectivity, is essential for businesses to leverage automation and AI.

Coega is committed to embracing these technologies. By automating routine tasks and leveraging data-driven insights, we can improve efficiency, enhance decision-making, and reduce costs.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is also reshaping the way we live and work. Coega is actively exploring IoT applications to create a more connected and intelligent SEZ. By integrating IoT devices and sensors into our infrastructure, we optimise resource utilisation, improve safety, and enhance the overall experience for businesses.

Most importantly, as stated by the Deputy Minister of Communication and Technologies in his keynote address yesterday, we must increase investment in skills development and human capital to fully realise the potential of technology. Coega is partnering with educational institutions to provide training and upskilling programmes in areas such as data science, cybersecurity, and AI. Last year, Coega and the MICT SETA celebrated the success of a joint ICT Graduate Programme, which provided 50 young people with valuable work experience. This eight-month programme led to the gainful employment 100% of graduates.

As we progress, technology will remain a catalyst for economic growth and societal advancement in the Eastern Cape and South Africa. By embracing innovation and investing in digital infrastructure, we can unlock new opportunities, enhance productivity, and improve the quality of life for our citizens.

Gqeberha, South Africa, 20 November 2024 – The Coega Development Corporation (Coega), this week, joins the Deputy Minister of the Department of Communications and Technologies and the Eastern Cape Premier at the 18th Annual ICT Summit, a premier event for the region’s technology community, which is currently underway at the East London International Convention Centre.

The 2024 Summit, hosted under the theme, 30 years of democracy: Reflecting on the current trends and future insights within the ICT Sector, features experts from various sectors including national and provincial government, businesses in the information, communication and technologies space, the mainstream media, educational institutions, and Coega to name a few.

In his keynote address, Deputy Minister of the Department of Communications and Technologies, Honourable Mondli Gungubele, emphasised the importance of artificial intelligence, 5G networks and Internet of Things to advance South Africa’s competitiveness.

“The ICT Summit has become a critical platform for dialogue and collaboration in our ever-evolving digital landscape. As we reflect on the role this forum has played in the sector, we should consider repositioning it as a National Digital Innovation Forum, placing innovation at the forefront of the agenda,” said Gungubele.

The Eastern Cape Premier, Honourable Oscar Lubabalo Mabuyane, addressed delegates at the signature event, touching briefly on the development of the Eastern Cape’s Digital Strategy and the importance of investing in research and development to drive innovation.

“This Summit provides a platform for stakeholders to contribute to the burgeoning ICT sector. It brings industry together in one room to talk ICT in the Eastern Cape, as our country celebrates 30 years of democracy. I leave here inspired, seeing young people beaming with ideas. We commit to continue partnering with the brightest minds to bring these innovations into government,” said Mabuyane.

Mr. Motse Mfuleni, ICT Summit Founder and Executive Chairman, stated that the Summit aims to address many of the hindrances faced by South Africa businesses including a lack of access to high-speed internet and digital technologies, particularly in rural areas, aging infrastructure, and regulatory hurdles.

“The ICT Summit was established to promote innovation, seek solutions, and position the ICT sector in developing the country. The vast experiences showcased by our guest speakers are a true reflection that the summit is a platform of discussing and deliberating on matters that need solutions,” said Mfuleni.

Coega Chief Knowledge and Digital Officer and ICT Summit Guest Speaker, Ms. Magama Makgamatho, provided a sneak peek into her presentation at today’s ICT Summit, showcasing Coega’s value-adding ICT business solutions.

“Understanding your business’s unique needs and strategic priorities is essential to effectively leverage available technologies. Businesses can only gain a competitive edge by investing in technologies that align with these goals and priorities. Coega, for example, has invested largely in cloud computing.

“Coega’s expertise in harnessing technology to drive business growth is well-established.

We look forward to sharing our insights, best practices, and Coega Technologies and Consulting service offering with attendees at the Summit,” concluded Makgamatho.

The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) recently welcomed the Advancement of Black Accountants of Southern Africa (ABASA) Association for a tour of the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ). The visit formed part of ABASA’s Annual Convention itinerary and aimed to showcase Coega’s service offerings and explore potential synergies between the two organisations.

The visit offered insights to the Coega SEZ’s ongoing developments, milestone projects, and skills and training programmes. During the visit, Coega and ABASA explored the possibility of leveraging strengths and areas of expertise to drive socio-economic development, mainly around Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) skills and enterprise development.

Coega Executive Manager of Business Development, Ms. Asanda Xawuka, provided an overview of Coega’s outcomes and key focus areas, including investment attraction, infrastructure development, SMME development and support, and hospitality, amongst others, in line with the organisation’s socio-economic development mandate.

The delegation had the opportunity to witness Coega’s key focus sectors, including Automotive, Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), Agro-processing, Logistics, Trade Solutions, Energy, and Maritime to name a few.

ABASA outgoing President, Ms. Linda Maqoma, expressed ABASA’s transformational objectives in terms of education, women empowerment, youth development and socioeconomic participation. “The accounting profession cuts across all industries. In terms of potential synergies, the Coega Maths and Science Programme, for example, feeds directly into what ABASA is advocating for. However, we are not limited to that. Enterprise development is equally vital. As ABASA, we are creating this platform as a conduit for economic transformation,” said Maqoma.

Since inception, Coega has emerged as a model of success, demonstrating the power of strategic collaboration, and its commitment to driving socio-economic growth.

Mr. Herbert Monadira, Senior Business Development Executive at Regenesys Corporate Education and Director at ABASA SPV1, delivered a word of gratitude on behalf of the ABASA delegation.

“This was truly an insightful visit. For organisations such as Coega to be impactful, you must love your community, and your programmes must show that. That is how people will advocate for what you do. We are thankful for Coega’s commitment to collaborating for impact.”

In conclusion, Coega is committed and open to exploring partnerships to promote economic growth in the region.