Coega

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.

Gqeberha, South Africa – The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) is pleased to have collaborated with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE), and partners such as Coca-Cola, Polyco, and Petco for the Youth in Waste Summit 2023, which took place in Gqeberha recently. The partnership marked a significant milestone in addressing pressing environmental challenges, such as littering, water and air pollution, and climate change facing our country, and in empowering young individuals to emerge as leaders in waste management and green initiatives.

Under the leadership of the Honourable Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Ms. Barbara Creecy, a Cleaning and Greening Initiative was launched in Motherwell to kick-off the Programme. Following the Cleaning and Greening Initiative, the Summit commenced at The Athenaeum.

The events provided an inclusive platform for participants to foster partnerships and exchange ideas, develop innovative strategies to combat waste-related challenges, and encourage the active involvement of youth in shaping the future of waste management and environmental sustainability in South Africa.

The Honourable Barbara Creecy explained that the country had lost close to two million jobs following the Covid-19 pandemic, and that as a result, the government developed the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan, which cites the green industries sector as an opportunity to advance mass employment while promoting a circular economy across industries.

The Minister shared: “One of the sectors that has been identified for growth is the green industries sector, with a particular focus on the waste economy and the recycling industry.”

Speaking about the Cleaning and Greening Initiative in Motherwell, the Nelson Mandela Bay Deputy Executive Mayor, Cllr. Babalwa Lobishe said: “This greening project is a project by the Minister which had many facets; first was the employment of 2 000 people in the collection of waste and the second was focused on small businesses in the space of waste management. We have observed that if we manage waste well, many jobs can be created. The main message is, let us not throw away gold. If waste collection contributes 30% to our GDP, this means that a lot can be done in terms of job creation as well as making sure that our region is clean.”

The Cleaning and Greening Initiative took place in Motherwell, Gqeberha.

Coega stands firmly committed to supporting the Youth in Waste Summit and working hand in hand with the DFFE to advance a long-term agenda of sustainable production and consumption and promote the socio-economic gains of sustainable industrial development. By joining forces, the organisations aim to drive positive change in our communities and inspire a collective sense of responsibility towards the environment. Coega’s belief is rooted in the notion that by empowering the youth and investing in sustainable initiatives, we can forge a cleaner and greener future for all South Africans.

The Chief Sustainability Officer for the Coega Development Corporation, Ms. Telly Chauke said: “For Coega, this year has really been about accelerating action for the sustainable development goals, specifically goal 17, orientated towards partnerships. For us, the biggest win from this Summit is solidifying partnerships. Secondly, it is being able to find where the resources are. There are a lot of potential partners here like Coca-Cola, the department itself, the Metro, as well as social partners. We should be able to collaborate to unlock resources to implement waste minimisation initiatives, as well as bulking up the infrastructure and supporting initiatives around waste management.”

Through this collaboration, Ms. Chauke said that Coega aims to create a platform that equips young people with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to drive effective waste management strategies.

“By fostering awareness, education, and innovation, we can empower the youth to take ownership of sustainable waste management practices and become catalysts for change within their respective communities. Coega recognises the urgent need to address waste management challenges that threaten the wellbeing of our communities and the ecosystem at large. By partnering with the DFFE, we are strategically positioned to leverage our expertise, resources, and networks to support the objectives of the Youth in Waste Summit,” concluded Ms. Chauke.

Gqeberha, South Africa, 21 November 2023 – The Coega Business Process Outsourcing Park, located in Zone 4 of the Coega Special Economic Zone, is currently home to Discovery, one of the Coega SEZ’s largest employers.

The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) recently participated at the Business Process Enabling South Africa (BPESA) Global Business Services (GBS) and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Conference at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, where it showcased how the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ), with its growing talent pool and technological capability, has established itself as a leader in South Africa’s GBS and BPO sector, through its dedicated BPO Park.

The BPESA Conference, hosted in partnership with the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (the dtic), InvestSA and Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator, presented a platform for industry stakeholders to learn about emerging technologies relevant to the sector in relation to customer experience.

Ms. Reshni Singh, BPESA Chief Executive Officer, explained that the event was hosted under the theme “Rise”, which encapsulated fundamental aspects of the industry and its workforce.

“The Conference aimed to spotlight the substantial investments made by the South African government in terms of job creation within the GBS sector, surpassing R3 billion, fostering private sector partnerships, with a concerted focus on job retention and the creation of new sustainable opportunities for both entry-level and specialised field graduates,” said Singh.

The GBS sector has emerged as one of South Africa’s fastest-growing industries in recent years, with a consistent growth rate of 22-24% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR). Recognised as a priority sector by the South African Government, the sector has received substantial support through GBS incentives and a co-created GBS Sector Masterplan, outlining the objective to create half a million jobs by 2030.

Ms. Vuyokazi Gwabeni, Coega’s Business Development Manager, said: “The Conference provided an opportunity to network with stakeholders dedicated to developing South Africa’s BPO sector and aligned to Coega’s role in propelling the socio-economic impact of the sector. We are currently home to one of the SEZ’s largest employers, Discovery, which has recently expanded and is projected to create 118 additional jobs.”

The Coega BPO Park, established in 2010 and located in Zone 4 of the Coega SEZ, currently houses three tenants, who provide over 1,500 jobs, collectively. The Park is fully equipped with the necessary infrastructure and offers customised spaces at competitive rates, as well as an uninterrupted power supply and green power through solar, in-house recruitment, training, a variety of incentives, and the convenience of being accessible to all main transportation nodes.

Coega’s participation at events like the BPESA GBS BPO Conference assists the organisation’s ability to create an enabling environment for targeted industries aligned to the economic profile of the region. With a focus on job creation, private sector partnerships, and sustainable opportunities, Coega continues to be a driving force in the success and growth of the South African BPO sector.

Gqeberha, South Africa, 20 November 2023 – The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) recently welcomed a group of 15 young graduates from the Kick Start Programme, facilitated by Common Purpose, a non-profit organisation specialising in personal and leadership development.

The visit formed part of a vital component of a comprehensive career immersion programme aimed at broadening the graduates’ horizons and deepening their understanding of the working world. The visit offered participants an opportunity to gain insight into specific areas of expertise based on their interests, including Business Development, Corporate Services, and Marketing and Communications.

Coega is committed to supporting the growth and development of young professionals, and this partnership with Common Purpose allowed us to engage with and empower the next generation of leaders.

According to Coega’s Unit Head of Human Resources, Ms. Azia Nxumalo, career development requires boldness and the will to embrace change.

“An important word of advice is to network, engage with people, and learn from people. You need to be willing to grab hold of opportunities, even the ones that involve change and the ones that may scare you,” urged Nxumalo.

As a catalyst for the champion of socio-economic opportunities, Coega supports initiatives that empower young professionals and brings them closer to realising economic empowerment.

Ms. Thinumzi Ntshweta, who is participating in the Programme, shared her perspective on the visit: “The visit has been helpful in kick starting my career. I would like to thank Coega for providing us with such a unique opportunity of learning from such successful individuals in their respective careers.”

Ms. Thozeka Tshangela, Senior Programme Manager at Common Purpose, expressed her gratitude to Coega on behalf of Common Purpose: “Thank you so much to Coega for making this an invaluable experience. We firmly believe that by engaging with professionals through this experience, that the students will gain a wealth of knowledge and insight.”

Coega is devoted in its dedication to promote personal and professional development, enabling young professionals to make informed career choices for success across evolving industries.

Gqeberha, South Africa, 16 November 2023 – From Friday, the 3rd of November 2023 to Sunday, the 3rd of December 2023, South Africa is celebrating National Disability Rights Awareness Month. The 3rd of December 2023 is International Day of Persons with Disabilities, which will form part of the National Disability Rights Awareness Day 2023 celebrations and activities.
As an organisation committed to promoting diversity, equality, and inclusion, the Coega Development Corporation (Coega) has also joined in the celebrations for National Disability Rights Awareness Month by embracing the call to action as an organisation that recognises the importance of creating opportunities for individuals living with disabilities.

Throughout the month, Coega will be highlighting the contributions and achievements of individuals living with disabilities, as well as promoting awareness of the rights and needs of this often-marginalised community.

In 2013, Coega launched its Disability Affirmation Programme (DAP) with the primary objective to restore the dignity of persons living with disabilities by providing them with skills that enhance their chances of securing employment.

Coega’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its Employment Equity Plan, which outlines Coega’s annual target of 5% of its employee base comprising persons living with disabilities. As of March 2023, Coega has made substantial progress towards this goal by employing fourteen (14) individuals, equivalent to an achievement of 3.2%. This initiative is a testament to the organisation’s dedication to providing equal opportunities.

Coega goes the extra mile to ensure that the lives of employees with disabilities are made easier. One way it does this is by providing transportation for any work-related matters, recognising the unique challenges that some of its employees face. This support helps employees with disabilities access their workplace and perform their duties without any hindrances.

To further empower individuals with disabilities, Coega’s Human Capital Solution Unit (HCS) has partnered with the National Institution for the Deaf (NID). The NID received funding from the CATHSSETA to support persons with disabilities in pursuing NQF level 4 Professional Cookery and NQF level 2 Assistant Chef Programmes.

Speaking on the reason why Coega chose to be a part of this partnership, Coega’s Training Project Manager Mr. Envor Wesso said: “The majority of learners living with disabilities from the previously disadvantaged community lack resources to help them supplement the disability grant. This Programme was implemented to help these learners get involved and feel part of the community.”

To date, over 30 candidates have successfully completed their individual programmes and are scheduled to graduate on the 23rd of November 2023. Describing her experience in the programme, graduating candidate Ms. Ntombekhaya Booi said: “It was a good experience, meeting other people living with different types of disabilities and learning about the hospitality industry. The facilitators were nice to us, and we never felt as if we are different to other people.”

Ms. Nokuphiwa Yekwa, a fellow graduating candidate, explaining if she would recommend the Programme to anyone else said: “Yes, I would recommend it to both abled and disabled persons, especially the ones who have a passion or interest in cooking, even to those who aspire to open their own food stall or restaurant someday.”

Initiatives such as this underscore Coega’s commitment to providing individuals with disabilities with the necessary skills and training to excel in their chosen fields. Coega is dedicated to continuing its path of empowering people with disabilities. By providing a resourceful, sustainable, and safe environment, Coega enables individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential.

Through employment opportunities, support, and partnerships for skill development, Coega exemplifies a commitment to inclusivity, acknowledging that a diverse and inclusive workplace benefits not only individuals with disabilities but the organisation. This proactive approach serves as a shining example for other organisations, reminding us of all that a society that supports and empowers its disabled citizens.

Gqeberha, South Africa – The Coega Development Corporation (Coega), last week, hosted back-to-back webinars focused on the topic of quality management, under the theme “realising your competitive potential”, at the Coega Business Centre in Gqeberha. “The two back-to-back events contributed to a global campaign aimed at celebrating the significance of quality management across various industries to promote the continuous improvement of processes, products, and services,” says Ms. Telly Chauke, Coega’s Chief Sustainability Officer.

The Managing Director of the South African Quality Institute (SAQI), Mr. Jacques Snyders, and Mr. Onward Machaka, a trainer for the National Occupational Safety Association, participated as guest speakers to shed light on the role of quality management in organisational success and brand reputation. In terms of Coega’s success and overall brand impact, quality management has played an integral role in every business function and output of the Corporation. “Quality is the differentiating factor that gives your business the competitive edge, to ensure that your clients return,” explained Snyders.

According to Coega’s Quality Manager, Mr. Xolani Gwele, “Coega has achieved numerous accolades and awards since its inception in 1999, which can be attributed to an uncompromising commitment to excellence based on internationally recognised quality standards. Recently, an Editorial published in leading regional newspaper described Coega as a ‘shining beacon of excellence with the highest degree of professionalism; an example of how a state-owned entity should be run.’ Notably, service excellence is one of Coega’s core values and has been integral to its operational success, socio-economic impact, and brand reputation.”

Coega has long been committed to upholding the highest standards of quality in all aspects of its operations. The organisation has embraced ISO (International Organization for Standardisation) standards as a benchmark to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of products and services that consistently exceed customer expectations. The Coega Sustainability Business Unit is mandated to oversee and maintain the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Standard, which the Corporation has maintained over the last nine (9) years. This ISO standard has been maintained alongside Environmental Management, Occupational Health and Safety, IT Service Management System, and Information Security Management System.
These standards formed the basis of stimulating conversations during World Quality Week and “should be treated as an impetus for continuous improvement,” urged Snyders.

The 2023 World Quality Week reflected on past achievements and ongoing challenges and provided a platform to share best practices aimed at sustaining and enhancing quality improvement throughout the organisation. External stakeholders were invited to share their perspectives on quality management and employees were encouraged to share their suggestions towards improving internal processes.

Coega is resolute in its focus on fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, and the events were instrumental in advancing this objective. The sessions not only celebrated the organisation’s quality successes but also provided a platform to voice challenges and share insights for further improvements, ranging from the streamlining of stage gates in infrastructure project management to improved document template control in administration. Topics covered included the principles of quality management, the significance of ISO standards, and their practical application in Coega’s daily operations.

Coega recognises the importance of collective efforts to maintain its position at the forefront of quality management. By delivering exceptional products and services that consistently surpass customer expectations, Coega aims to uphold its record of excellence.

Coega’s commitment to quality management is unwavering, and the webinars held during World Quality Week served as a testament to that commitment. The events provided a valuable platform for dialogue, reflection, and improvement as Coega remains steadfast in its pursuit of excellence. “The Corporation is poised to continue setting high standards for quality management in all its operations and looks forward to further advancing its culture of innovation and continuous improvement,” concluded Chauke.

Gqeberha, South Africa, 8 November 2023 – In an effort to promote accessibility and proximity of services such as skills development and training opportunities, the Department of Employment and Labour, last week, organised a pop-up career exhibition at the George Botha Community Sports Centre in KwaNoxolo, Bethelsdorp, Gqeberha. The Career Exhibition aimed to provide career guidance and opportunities to unemployed individuals seeking employment, and brought together various government entities, automotive groups, Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), and institutions of higher learning.

The event featured key stakeholder representatives from the Coega Development Corporation (Coega), the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, Working on Fire, Local Government SETA, Wholesale and Retail SETA, the Department of Higher Education and Training, South African Police Services (SAPS) and the Walter Sisulu University (WSU), who imparted valuable information on career development and training opportunities during the event.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Vukile Sityana from the Department of Employment and Labour, shared valuable information about the benefits of the event, stating that career and skills development exhibitions serve as valuable platforms for communities to gain access to various services and opportunities related to skills development and career advancement.
“By bringing key stakeholders together in a centralised location, these events provide an interactive and engaging environment for attendees. The Exhibition format allows individuals to explore different options, connect with experts, and make informed decisions about their career paths. One of the primary benefits of such exhibitions is the increased accessibility of services. Often, individuals residing in remote areas or disadvantaged communities face barriers to accessing information and resources related to skills development.”

Mr. Unathi Dasi, Assistant Director: Human Capital Investment at the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure said: “We were invited by the Department of Employment and Labour to offer our support in disseminating information about employment opportunities. During our visit, we had the privilege of sharing information with the community regarding various opportunities within the field of public works, including those within the domains of construction, property management, and related fields. To facilitate access to our services, we prepared comprehensive career leaflets, catering to those interested in pursuing their studies at TVET colleges or higher education institutions. Furthermore, our department maintains a nationwide database for registration, enabling individuals to access the numerous opportunities available within our department.”

Mr. Envor Wesso, Coega Training Manager: Human Capital Solutions, expressed Coega’s commitment to socio-economic development through training and job creation: “In our pursuit to foster creative development for the youth and address unemployment, Coega has established a Skills Development Centre to oversee skills and training programmes alignedwith national development objectives, encompassing technical vocational education and training, alongside STEM-related initiatives. These programmes serve as a pivotal force in addressing socio-economic challenges, by granting unemployed youth the means to access gainful employment or embark on entrepreneurial endeavours.

Coega’s offerings include diverse skills programmes, ranging from Trade Tests to apprenticeships in the fields of plumbing, bricklaying, carpentry, electrical work, welding, joinery, and more. Notably, in 2022/23 Financial Year, Coega offered training to a commendable 3,932 individuals, leaving a substantial imprint on the lives of young individuals and local communities. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the community for their support and encourage them to register on the Gateway to Opportunities (G2O) database, a gateway to propel their careers.”

The accessibility of the Exhibition enabled community members, including youth, adults, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to explore diverse career options and understand the steps required to pursue their chosen paths. The event served as a catalyst for inspiration, motivation, and self-discovery, instilling a sense of hope and ambition amongst attendees.

Furthermore, the Exhibition facilitated partnerships and potential collaborations between community members and stakeholders that may address the urgent need for local employment.

Gqeberha, South Africa, 6 November 2023 – As part of the ongoing nation-wide programme to support small businesses and informal traders, the Minister of Small Business Development, Honourable Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, in collaboration with the Eastern Cape Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT), Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) and the Coega Development Corporation (Coega), was in the Eastern Cape last week Thursday and Friday.

The Minister participated in a walk-about following the Small Enterprise Development Agency’s (SEDA) Annual Stakeholder Forum at Royal St. Andrew’s Hotel, in Port Alfred. The Forum brought members of industry together to share SEDA’s Performance Report and explore collaborative development opportunities. Coega, as a key stakeholder, was represented by its SMME Training Manager, Ms. Ziyanda Kaleni- Mnyande, who highlighted Coega’s essential role in providing access to market opportunities and funding for SMMEs.

“Through its fully-fledged SMME Development Programme, Coega has been instrumental in enabling access to market opportunities and funding for SMMEs. The Programme places emphasis on capacity building and skills development for SMMEs through various training programmes, mentorship initiatives, and workshops. Coega also equips SMMEs with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in today’s competitive business landscape,” said Kaleni-Mnyande.

Mr. Mbulelo Jolingana, Director of Enterprise Development for DEDEAT, said: “We convened to engage with key stakeholders in a programme that signifies the latest advancements within the enterprise legislation of 1996. As we navigate the landscape of enterprise development in 2024, we urged SEDA to host a forum, serving as a conduit for invaluable feedback on our programmes and a platform to disseminate updates to our diverse stakeholders.”

This, he said, aligns with the National Integrated Small Enterprise Development Strategy (NISED), a blueprint developed by the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD), aimed at fortifying the ecosystems that underpin our enterprises and cooperatives.

“The strategy is underpinned by three pillars, encompassing both financial and non- financial support mechanisms for our enterprises. In addition, it is our collective mission as a nation to maintain a laser focus on the implementation of these initiatives. In this pursuit, we promote the holistic approach of strengthening the Triple Development Model, working in tandem with local municipalities. Together, we seek to unearth opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises and cooperatives, driving sustainable economic growth and development,” said Mr. Jolingana.

Last week, on Thursday, 2 November 2023, the Minister launched the Crudastar Incubator in Makana Local Municipality. The DSBD seeks to create an enabling environment for the growth and development of small enterprises with a bias towards rural and township-based start-ups owned by women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

Speaking at the launch, the Minister stated that the success of business incubation hinges on a united effort of all stakeholders in the ecosystem.

“This innovation hub, fostering a diverse group of entrepreneurs across various sectors, relies on the comprehensive support offered by the Incubator. As entrepreneurs graduate and venture into the business world, they will require financial assistance and essential equipment.

“This underscores the significance of having the full support, especially from the government, while also inviting the private sector to join us in this endeavour. Government’s involvement is paramount, enabling us to monitor the impact of our investments and identify opportunities for these individuals. Therefore, coordination and collaboration are key to effective execution and economic growth,” said the Minister.

The Minister presided over the finals of the Eastern Cape Pitch for Funding competition, which is part of a platform for SMMEs to showcase their ideas, innovations, and business cases to the DSBD family and its partners, facilitating their access to both financial and non-financial support. The event closed with SEDA sharing its performance results. Minister Ndabeni-Abrahams was joined by dignitaries, including, Honourable Mlungisi Mvoko, MEC for Finance and Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism in the Eastern Cape; Cllr Deon De Vos, Executive Mayor of the Sarah Baartman Municipality; Cllr Yandiswa Vara, Executive Mayor of Makana Local Municipality; and Cllr Khululwa Ncamiso, Executive Mayor of Ndlambe Local Municipality.

The Minister handed over much-needed business equipment to several small businesses as part of the department’s Informal and Micro Enterprises Development Programme (IMEDP). IMEDP seeks to grow informal and micro enterprises to their full potential. It is also an intervention that helps address challenges relating to sustainable livelihoods, unemployment, and inequality.
On Friday, the Minister delivered a keynote address at RUCC Farmer’s Day at Glengazi Farm, Ndimakude, Port St John’s and wrapped up the programme with a hand over of business equipment at Winnie Madikizela Mandela Municipality.

Africa’s leading Coega Special Economic Zone, clustered for synergy and fit-for-purpose, is home to several local and international investors in the manufacturing space, including light manufacturing as well as subsets of manufacturing, such as agroprocessing.

Gqeberha, South Africa, 3 November 2023 – The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) last week attended the Manufacturing Indaba to gain first- hand insights into the emerging opportunities and existing challenges within the South African manufacturing sector. As a leading catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development and a leading multi-sector investment destination, Coega is committed to ensuring an enabling environment for current and future Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) investors, says Dr. Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega’s Unit Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications.

Results from the latest Statistics South Africa Coega SEZ Census Survey, indicate that the manufacturing sector is the largest employer in the SEZ, accounting for (3 563 or 60,5%) of jobs in the SEZ for the period 2020 to 2021. The Census also indicated that manufacturing accounted for just over 70 percent of the total income across the SEZ for 2021, making it a priority sector in terms of job creation and socio-economic development.

Ms. Nolusindiso Jonas, Coega Business Development Manager, says that manufacturing is undoubtedly still a major driver of job creation in South Africa. “Manufacturing activities boost the value generated in an economy by creating activity and jobs along value chains, from raw materials to processing, assembly, and packaging. While the world moves towards automation and tech-powered production lines, South African SEZ’s still place high importance on manual and automation processes which enable job creation. Currently, the Coega SEZ is home to several businesses in the manufacturing space, including Cemza, Coega Steels, Corro Master, VSL Laser, and Chemchamp Africa, to name a few. Soon, the Coega SEZ will be home to the multi-billion-rand Stellantis Auto Manufacturing Plant and Hive Hydrogen Green Ammonia Project, both of which will create thousands of jobs in the sector. To attract further investment in the manufacturing sector, we need to know how to unlock growth opportunities and synergies for these businesses,” added Jonas.

According to Jonas, loadshedding was one of the issues cited as a major obstacle to the progress of the sector. The Coega SEZ has implemented exemption from loadshedding up to stage 4, uninterrupted power supply at its Business Process Outsourcing Park, and a 24-hour load curtailment schedule.

Managing Director of Siyenza Events, Liz Hart, responsible for organising the Manufacturing Indaba, explained that the Coega SEZ was a key stakeholder at the event.

“It is important to profile the South African Development Zones to the Manufacturing Indaba audiences and have representatives available to meet with people interested to know more about Coega,” said Hart.

This week, Coega is represented at the AGOA “Made in Africa” Conference to gain further insights about the sector, form partnerships and explore trade opportunities with the manufacturers from the continent and abroad.

The Coega Integrated Annual Report for the 2022/23 financial year reflected a total of 9 378 people employed in the Coega SEZ, from 8 046 in 2021 (StatsSA’s Coega Investor Survey). The latest 2023 Coega SEZ Census Survey, set to commence in November 2023, will indicate the proportion of these jobs attributable to manufacturing.

The Coega SEZ continues to thrive as a preferred investment destination, providing a competent workforce through vocational training programmes, and addressing industrial challenges while recognising the vital role of manufacturing
in promoting prosperity and job creation across value chains. Since inception in 1999, the Coega SEZ has created more than 160,906 direct and indirect employment opportunities, significantly impacting local economic growth and improving the lives of communities, concluded Dr. Vilakazi.

Budget Review Commentary by Mr. Rodger Hill CA(SA), Chief Financial Officer for Coega Development Corporation.

The Coega Development Corporation welcomes the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) for 2023, presented by the Honourable Minister of Finance, Mr. Enoch Godongwana. The eagerly anticipated address was made against a backdrop of lower global and domestic economic growth, and thus presented strategies to mitigate risks while leveraging new opportunities.

A Balanced and Forward-Thinking Budget

Minister Godongwana’s speech demonstrates commitment to striking a balance between addressing immediate fiscal imperatives while still positioning South Africa for long-term economic growth. The proposed policies and initiatives represent a proactive approach to nurturing both the public and private sectors.

Investment in Key Infrastructure

One of the most heartening aspects of the budget review speech is the government’s focus on enhancing the delivery of infrastructure. Coega wholeheartedly endorses this emphasis, as robust infrastructure development is a fundamental catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and the attraction of both domestic and foreign investment.

With this commitment to increasing investment in critical infrastructure projects, we can envision a South Africa that is better connected, more resilient, and primed for sustainable development. Coega welcomes Treasury’s commitment to create new mechanisms to allow for the participation of private sector and multilateral financiers in critical infrastructure projects. These options are already increasingly being used by the organisation to ensure infrastructure delivery of economically enabling infrastructure without encumbering the fiscus. Such projects are critical catalysts for economic upliftment, creating fertile ground for new industries and employment opportunities, and will go a long way in addressing South Africa’s trifecta of unemployment, poverty, and inequality.

Job Creation and Skills Development

We support the government’s determination to address the pressing issue of unemployment through job creation and skills development and employment programmes. At Coega, we firmly believe that sustained investments in skills development are integral to cultivating a highly skilled and adaptable workforce. By aligning our efforts with the government’s commitment to education and skills development, we can elevate the competitiveness of our industries and pave the way for greater economic inclusivity.

Sustainable Economic Growth

In his speech, Minister Godongwana highlighted the imperative of attaining sustainable economic growth for the benefit of all South Africans. This resonates deeply with Coega, as we are committed to fostering an environmentally responsible and inclusive economic landscape.

We commend the government’s focus on green technologies, renewable energy, and prioritising sustainable resource management. This forward-thinking approach positions South Africa favourably on the global stage and aligns us with international markets that value environmental stewardship and sustainable development.

Conclusion

The proposals set forth by the Finance Minister present a clear appreciation of our nation’s needs and outline governments commitment to creating an inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous South Africa.

Coega stands ready to form partnerships and collaborate with all spheres of government and other stakeholders to translate these proposals into tangible outcomes. By leveraging our existing capabilities and infrastructure, we are resolute in our determination to continue contributing towards driving economic growth, fostering job creation, and sustainable development.
Together, we possess a distinct opportunity to construct a more vibrant and resilient South Africa that confers benefit upon all its citizens.