Coega

The Coega Development Corporation (Coega), last week, through its Skills Development Centre (SDC), participated at the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) Labour Activation Programme (LAP) project launch at the East London International Convention Centre (ELICC).

Spearheaded by the Department of Employment and Labour, the R1.9 billion UIF LAP is aimed at ensuring poverty alleviation through job preservation and skills development.

In his keynote address, the Minister of Employment and Labour, Honourable Thulas Nxesi said: “It is opportune that in this freedom month, we gather here at the Home of the Legends to mark 30 years of democracy, partnership, and growth. We are here to launch this Unemployment Insurance Fund Labour Activation Programme, to strengthen employment creation and encourage demand-led training to mitigate the unemployment in our country.”

A formal pledge was signed during the event to fulfill the LAP Activation Programme’s objectives in mitigating unemployment and contributing to growth and development.

The Eastern Cape Premier, Honourable Oscar Lubabalo Mabuyane, emphasised that over 56,000 people in the province stand to benefit from the LAP Activation Programme, highlighting the crucial role of enhancing employability and fostering entrepreneurship in the province.

Mr. David Lambaatjeen, Coega SDC Training Manager, said: “We are immensely proud to lend our support to the LAP Activation Programme launch. Our commitment to skills development was solidified through funding agreements in the 2018/2019 financial year, to provide opportunities for 135 apprentices across eight artisan trades and 200 learners for professional driving learnerships through our Skills Development Centre. We believe in nurturing talent and empowering individuals to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.”

The event featured local businesses, showcasing a diverse range of services including entrepreneurship training, artisan management, skills development, remote work training, project and quality management, and innovative farming solutions, amongst others.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this event and look forward to supporting future career development initiatives in the region,” concluded Mr. Lambaatjeen.

On Thursday, 18 April 2024, the Coega Development Corporation (Coega) joined the Honourable Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane and the Honourable MEC for Education, Mr. Fundile Gade, for the official handover of the R106 million Tyali Senior Secondary School (SSS) in KwaMaxhama, Kentani, in the Eastern Cape Province.

Honourable Premier Mabuyane described the school as a prime example of community development: “The construction of the school gave builders an opportunity to showcase their skills. Tyali is a good example of a school that does things the right way. Educated people can find good jobs and ensure brighter futures.”

The Tyali SSS, which falls under the Eastern Cape Province Department’s School Building Programme, underscores Coega’s commitment to advancing educational infrastructure within the Amathole District Municipality and beyond.

The Eastern Cape MEC for Education, Honourable Fundile Gade, emphasised the vital role that educational facilities continue to play in shaping the future of communities. Coega serves as an Implementing Agent (IA) of Choice on an assortment of school projects, including new schools, improvements, and additions to existing schools, as well as repairs and renovations to various schools, in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development (SDG) Goal 4, the National Development Plan Vision 2030 and the National Infrastructure Plan 2050.

Tyali SSS Principal, Mr. Phakamile Sondawo, expressed his pride in the school’s vision of providing students with opportunities to become productive, responsible, and competitive citizens through an inclusive, quality basic education system.
The project stands as a testament to Coega’s commitment to advancing education infrastructure across the region. The completed Tyali SSS project encompasses a comprehensive array of facilities, including an administrative block, a dining and nutrition centre, science and computer labs, and a variety of classrooms. Other additions to the school include multi-purpose classrooms, new toilet blocks, fencing and gate house, and various environmental features.

The construction of the school significantly contributed to the growth of local small, medium, and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs), creating 84 jobs and 24.60% of the project’s funding directed towards SMMEs. This exemplifies Coega’s commitment to holistic educational development, focusing on socio-economic upliftment and job creation.

In addition, the project entails essential electrical installations and associated site works, such as rainwater tanks, water, sewerage, and stormwater reticulation. The demolition of existing timber structures further underscores the commitment to modernising educational infrastructure, eradicating structures built of inappropriate material in line with the applicable norms and standards and contemporary practices.

Coega Executive Manager for Infrastructure Planning and Development, Dr. Mpumi Mabula shared Coega’s role as IA on infrastructure projects: “Coega takes immense pride in the impactful work we undertake as the trusted implementing agent, enriching the lives of learners and contributing to the broader landscape of access to quality education. This project stands as a testament to our commitment to advancing educational infrastructure and cultivating environments conducive to learning in line with Coega’s vision of being a leading catalyst for championing of socio-economic development.

“The execution framework, including initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and control, reflects our dedication to excellence in various aspects of project management. We ensure that every project we embark upon leaves a lasting and positive impact on the communities we serve,” added Mabula.

The opening of the school marks a significant milestone in Coega’s ongoing collaboration with the Eastern Cape Department of Education. By providing state-of-the-art educational facilities, Coega continues to play a pivotal role in driving socio-economic development and building a more prosperous future for South Africa.

Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Honourable Mlungisi Mvoko, visited the Coega Development Corporation (Coega) in Gqeberha yesterday. The purpose of their visit was to assess the progress and readiness of the Orion Engineered Carbons (OEC) Tank Farm Project in Zone 7 of the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ). The site visit included a tour of the Coega SEZ Aquaculture Development Zone (ADZ) in Zone 10.

The OEC Oil Tank Farm Project entailed the development of two 18,000 m3 (cubic metre) tanks for the storage of carbon black feedstock oil, which is used in the manufacturing of tyres, amongst other high-performance applications. Each tank compromises 80 shell plates, totalling 19,2 metres in height and weighing a total mass of 289 tons per tank. In addition, a 5,4-kilometre pipeline from the Coega harbour to the new storage facility was constructed to facilitate the transportation of the heavy fuel oil from cargo vessels docked in the Port of Ngqura. An oil ship carrying 26,000 tons of black oil, equivalent to 26 million litres, arrived at the Port of Port Elizabeth last week, before proceeding to the Port of Ngqura for the hot commissioning of the OEC Tank Farm Project.

The OEC heavy fuel oil storage facility is nearing operationalisation. Because of OEC’s strategic position in the value chain, the project’s progress since its sod-turning on 22 April 2022, was closely inspected by the Honourable Deputy Minister of the dtic and the DEDEAT MEC, who were impressed by the progress that has been made so far. Had it not been for the interventions of the dtic, the Eastern Cape Provincial Government, and the collaboration and support of the parties involved, the region would have lost a project of economic value in 2022, leading to significant job losses. Coega, through support from the Department of Trade Industry and Competition, worked together with Orion Engineered Carbons South Africa (OEC SA) and Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) to provide OEC SA with a solution that was meant to keep its business sustainable. The solution saved approximately 7000 jobs in the automotive and tyre manufacturing industry. Moreover, saving the OEC in the province aligned very well with Coega’s vision of being the leading catalyst for championing of the socio-economic development, and broader government objectives as set out in the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP) and other government Policy Prescripts.

Deputy Minister Majola said “the project is very critical in the automotive sector, since OEC plays a vital role in the value chain.” That is why it was important for the dtic to fund the project to the tune of approximately R272 million. To date, 267 jobs have been created since construction started.

“The choice to move the OEC tanks and activities to the Coega SEZ precinct makes it abundantly evident how important SEZs are to the development of global value chains, especially in the manufacturing and automotive industries. The SEZ Programme is still a crucial component of the South African government’s efforts to draw in strategic direct investments that could provide the economy the boost it needs to resume sustained growth and development,” added Majola.

MEC Mvoko expressed his satisfaction with the development of both the OEC Tank Farm and the ADZ: “The ADZ infrastructure development was completed within budget and now the site is ready. Furthermore, when the dtic assisted with the OEC Project, we were thankful. We are hopeful that the OEC Project will live up to the gesture made by the dtic.”

These state-of-the-art OEC tanks were specifically designed to store carbon black feedstock oil, which is a crucial ingredient in the production of tyres and various high- performance applications. “Once operational, the OEC Oil Tank Farm Project will stimulate the entire value chain of the automotive sector,” said Coega Programme Manager, Ms. Maria van Zyl. OEC is a leading worldwide supplier of carbon black, which is a material with many industrial applications including the production of rubber tyres, inks, dyes, coatings, batteries, plastics, paints, and other applications. OEC imports raw materials from the United States of America, conducts high-value manufacturing in Nelson Mandela Bay, and exports high-grade carbon black.

Ms. Nomfundo Faltein, OEC Managing Director, expressed the company’s appreciation with the project’s progress and support from stakeholders involved. “On behalf of Orion, we would like to thank Coega through the support of the dtic and everyone involved in this project. The continued existence of Orion in South Africa supplying the rubber industries with carbon black, as well as maintaining the jobs in the supply chain, depend on this project,” said Faltein.

Furthermore, the visit by the Honourable Deputy Minister Majola also provided an opportunity to showcase the Coega ADZ, which received a substantial investment of R206 million from the Eastern Cape Provincial Economic Stimulus Fund for the development of enabling infrastructure, including road networks, stormwater and water reticulation systems, and electrical networks. As a result, the Coega ADZ has become an extremely attractive investment location for potential stakeholders.

During the site tour, Honourable Deputy Minister Majola and Honourable MEC Mvoko had the opportunity to witness the immense potential for growth and economic development in both the OEC Tank Farm Project and the Coega ADZ. Their visit underscored government’s steadfast commitment to supporting these ventures, which are vital for job creation, innovation, and prosperity in the Eastern Cape.

The visit served as a valuable affirmation of the progress made by Coega and its commitment to fostering economic growth. Moreover, Coega’s achievements signifies that the SEZ programme is delivering on its objectives of socio-economic development.

Gqeberha, South Africa, 12 April 2024 – The Coega Development Corporation’s (Coega) expanding Multi-User Facility continues to serve as a prime location for small to large companies looking for ideal office space in a plug-and-play industrial zone. Strategically located in Zone 3 of the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ), Coega’s Multi-User Facility is home to an array of companies representing six of the SEZ’s 14 focus sectors, including logistics, energy, and automotive. “The Natural Fibre Hub has benefitted greatly from the factory-ready space of the Multi-User Facility. It has enabled us to move quickly to capture an opportunity when the equipment we needed became available at very short notice,” says tenant and Natural Fibre Hub Manager, Mr. Andy Radford.

The Multi-User Facility is currently home to an impressive array of tenants, with newly announced investor, Stellantis, set to occupy an office at the facility ahead of the construction of their R3bn Auto Manufacturing Plant in Zone 2 of the Coega SEZ. Multi- user tenants include African loop Solutions, Himoinsa SA, Ocean Legacy Marine, Chemchamp Africa (Akula Trading), VSL (auto components), Flow Cultivate, Romark Logistics, Natural Fibre Hub (joint venture between the CSIR/Coega Biofibre Hub), CNSA Investment (Chinese solar storage), and Vanguard Logistics. Collectively, the Multi-user Facility houses over 60 employees, representing operational jobs.

“The 6 000m2 Multi-user Facility offers cutting-edge ICT infrastructure and world-class boardrooms and offices, facilitating seamless plug-and-play environment experience for tenants. The facility ensures exemption from loadshedding up to stage 4, convenient access to major transport networks, a range of government incentives such as customs duties and VAT suspension, 24-hour security, and accessible business support through the Coega One-Stop-Shop located in Zone 1 of the SEZ,” says Mr. Mandla Maqanda, Coega Facilities Manager.

The Multi-user Facility is also currently the incubator for the biofibre development project between the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Coega. The project aims to develop industrial applications for plant-based fibres, supporting the competitiveness of the local automotive sector, and has recently partnered with a leading Italian plant-based leather manufacturer that provides products to leading European auto manufacturers, and to leading luxury fashion brands looking for sustainable leather alternatives.

The Facility also provides a range of invaluable resources and support to Small, Medium, and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMMEs). Through this facility, SMMEs gain cost-effective access to crucial resources, business support in a conducive industrial ecosystem.

With an established track record of facilitating successful ventures, the Multi-user Facility is expected to draw interest from a diverse range of industries and is well- positioned to accommodate the needs of prospective tenants, providing them with access to key markets and enabling them to thrive. Phases 1 and 2 of the Facility are currently occupied, testament to its ideal location and commercial appeal. . Phase 1 was completed in 2017, with Phase 2 reaching completion in May 2020.

“As the Facility continues to expand its offerings and foster collaboration among stakeholders, it will play a pivotal role in driving economic growth and job creation in the region. With four development phases set to create approximately 25,000m2 of space upon completion, the Multi-user Facility remains a driving force for companies seeking to expand their footprint,” concludes Mr. Maqanda.

Gqeberha, South Africa, 11 April 2024 – The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) is the developer and operator of the 9003-hectare Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ), a preferred investment destination and a leading SEZ in Africa, located in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape province. The SEZ was designated in 2001 to become South Africa’s first industrial development zone. It currently operates in terms of the Special Economic Zone Act of 2014 (Act No. 16 of 2014).

The latest Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) Coega SEZ Survey Report (2023) was released today, 11 April 2024, at the Coega Business Centre in Gqeberha, in the Eastern Cape. Ms. Magama Makgamatho, Coega Chief Knowledge and Digital Officer, accepted the Coega SEZ Report (2023) on behalf of the Coega Development Corporation. “The Coega SEZ Report provides invaluable insight on growth and development, and investor performance which should inform future strategies, operational efficiencies, and expansion plans. Moreover, we are especially pleased about this latest report and hope to continue this partnership and fulfil the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding with Stats SA.”

The Coega SEZ Report (2023) was handed over to Coega by Stats SA’s Deputy Director- General for Statistical Operations and Provincial Coordination, Mr. Ashwell Jenneker. Speaking at the handover ceremony at Coega, Mr. Jenneker was pleased with the investors 100% participation in the Coega SEZ Survey 2023. “We are very satisfied with the fact that all investors responded in this survey and what is clear is that the Coega SEZ project has immensely contributed to development, job creation, and economic growth in the region. He also said that “we too value this partnership, and we will continue using our statistical measurements to give evidenced-based information to support decision making.”

The Coega SEZ is showing consistent growth in both income and capital expenditure and employs more women and youth. The total Coega SEZ investor income was R18,9 billion in 2023 (up from R14,0 billion in 2021); and the total income had an annualised increase of 15,9% between 2021 and 2023, the survey found [manufacturing was R13,8 billion and non-manufacturing, R5,1 billion]. The total income in the Coega SEZ in 2023 was comprised mainly of the ‘sales of goods, services and other income.’ Furthermore, the total expenditure in the Coega SEZ in 2023 was R17,9 billion. The largest contributors to the total expenditure were ‘purchases’, ‘salaries and wages’, and ‘depreciation,’ among others.

The SEZ boast cutting-edge, world-class modern facilities, as part of its value proposition, for automotive metals/metallurgical, automotive, business process outsourcing (BPO), chemicals, agro-processing, logistics, trade solutions, energy, and maritime industries.

The total capital expenditure on new assets in 2023 was R558 million, as compared to R346 million the previous year. This surge translates to an impressive, annualised growth of 27,0%, underscoring the Zone’s robust expansion and commitment to infrastructure development. The largest categories of capital expenditure were ‘capital work in progress’ (R230 million or 41,2%) and ‘plant, machinery, and equipment (R228 million or 40,9%).

The SEZ, which had 43 active tenants in 2023, leverages public-sector investment to attract foreign and domestic direct investment in the manufacturing sector with an export orientation. As mentioned above, the income in the Coega SEZ in 2023 was comprised mainly of ‘sales of goods;’ however, between 2018 and 2023, ‘manufacturing’ contributed the biggest percentage share of income. The SEZ was growing as a manufacturing hub in the region with the survey showing that between 2018 and 2023, ‘manufacturing’ contributed the biggest percentage share of income. Manufacturing contributed 73,2% of the total income of the tenants in 2023, while their contribution to employment (excluding employees employed through labour brokers) was 58,4%. Non-manufacturing contributed 26,8% of total income and 41,6% of employment. This survey results showed that the Coega SEZ continued to demonstrate tangible impact on transformative socio- economic indicators.

Furthermore, in 2023, female representation in the workforce, excluding labour broker employees, stood at 38,4%, indicating significant strides towards gender inclusivity. Notably, the ‘non-manufacturing’ sector boasted the highest proportion of female employees, accounting for 51,6% of its workforce. Moreover, the youth played a substantial role in the Coega SEZ’s employment landscape, constituting 42,7% of the workforce (excluding labour broker employees) in 2023. Once again, the ‘non- manufacturing’ sector emerged as the primary employer of young individuals, showcasing its appeal and opportunities for career entry. These statistics underscore the SEZ’s commitment to fostering diverse and inclusive employment practices, essential for sustainable economic growth and development.

The Report indicates that total employment at the Coega SEZ in 2023 was 8577, up from 8029 in 2021, an annualised growth of 3,4%.

In 2023, the proportion of goods and services exported or sold to domestic exporters was 25,8% of total goods and services sold in the Coega SEZ.

The Coega SEZ Survey Report by Stats SA demonstrates that the country’s SEZ Programme is working.

The Coega SEZ leads and continues to position itself as a key contributor to economic development and growth engine towards government’s strategic objectives of industrialisation, regional development, and employment creation, concludes Dr. Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega’s Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications.

Gqeberha, South Africa, 3 April 2024 – The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) continues to make significant strides as a trusted Implementing Agent (IA) of Choice in South Africa. Since the inception of its Non-SEZ Infrastructure Development Programme in 2004, as an IA, Coega has successfully implemented infrastructure projects to an accumulative value of approximately R48.3bn, thus enhancing state capacity for service delivery and enabling inclusive growth and socio-economic development throughout the country.

During the 2023/24 financial year (FY) alone, from April 2023 to March 2024, Coega has proudly supported the Eastern Cape Department of Education (DoE) and Department of Health (DoH) with the successful completion of infrastructure projects to the value of R4bn in pursuit of its vision as a leading catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development.

Transforming the face of public education facilities

“Coega’s capacity, dedication, and prowess in the development of infrastructure in South Africa is evident through its collaboration with the Department of Education (DoE) on major infrastructure projects. From April 2023 to March 2024, Coega has played a crucial role in the completion of key educational facilities totaling R415.45m,” says Dr. Mpumi Mabula, Coega’s Executive Manager for Infrastructure Planning and Development.

The DoE infrastructure development projects by Coega include the Cebe Junior Secondary School in Kentani, valued at R59m, creating 89 jobs, and allocating 33.75% procurement spend to local SMMEs; Krazukile Senior Secondary School in Kentani, with a project value of R52m, creating 75 jobs, with 34.7% of the construction work awarded to local SMMEs; Tyali High School in Kentani, with a value of R74m, creating 84 jobs and directing 24.6% of procurement spend to SMMEs, to name a few,” continues Dr. Mabula.

Additional school projects handed over to local communities in February and March 2024, and located in the Eastern Cape, include the R49m Nkululeko Senior Secondary School (SSS) in KwaNobuhle, and the R126m Zibi Meyer Junior Secondary School (JSS) in Mount Fletcher. Nkululeko SSS generated 31 local employment opportunities, including two internships, and utilised the services of 13 SMME contractors to ensure inclusive economic growth and to address socio- economic development imperatives. The Zibi Meyer JSS awarded contracts to 21 local businesses and created 80 jobs during the construction period.

The most recent school project handed over by the MEC for Education, Honourable Fundile Gade, accompanied by MEC for Social Development, Honourable Bukiwe Fanta, was to the community of Keiskammahoek. The R55,45m Vukile Tshwete SSS project provided employment to 76 local workers and will positively impact the lives of close to 1000 learners enrolled at the school, providing them with a conducive and dignified learning environment.

With a track record of successfully managing and executing large-scale infrastructure development projects in South Africa, as an Implementing Agent of Choice, Coega has demonstrated its ability to transform the vision into reality, delivering tangible benefits to communities and advancing the nation’s educational agenda, aligning with National Development Plan Vision 2030, National Infrastructure Plan 2050, and United Nations Sustainable Development (SDG) Goal 4, focusing on inclusive and equitable quality education.

In KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), 36 projects have reached practical completion since April 2023 to March 2024, across various districts with Coega as the trusted IA. Collectively, the projects amount to a project award value of approximately R181m.

Enhancing service delivery capacity in the health sector

Coega’s impact extends to the health sector, with the successful completion of three Eastern Cape health infrastructure development projects to an approximate value of R1.3bn. These projects include the Sipetu District Hospital in Ntabankulu valued at R623.7m, the Khotsong Tuberculosis Hospital in Matatiele valued at R549m, and Meje Community Health Centre in Bizana worth R223m. The major health facilities located in other parts of the country include the Dihlabeng Regional Hospital Phase 2 in Bethlehem, with a construction value of R750m.

Other hospitals with Coega as IA include the following:

• The R889m Zithulele District Hospital, which has also achieved sectional practical completion in the King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality, has generated a total of 786 construction jobs, 417 employment opportunities for young people, nine graduate internships, and 115 technical training opportunities. Further, 939 people were afforded opportunities for life skills training, with approximately 64% of beneficiaries categorised as local labour.
• The Bambisana District Hospital in the Eastern Cape, valued at R515m, has created 376 job opportunities, with 211 opportunities offered to young people, 49 opportunities created for women, seven internships, and training for 348 people.

Coega’s success as a leader in the public sector infrastructure development and trusted infrastructure IA is rooted in its adherence to best practices, transparency, and accountability. The organisation follows a rigorous project management approach, ensuring that infrastructure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards while ensuring good corporate governance. Through effective international best practice in project management, ISO certified processes, and excellent customer service, Coega has consistently earned the trust of clients and stakeholders. This trust has extended to clients outside of South Africa, into the rest of the continent where Coega is also implementing infrastructure projects. The Auditor-General of South Africa issued a “clean audit” to Coega for the last four (4) consecutive years, further demonstrating its excellence in supply chain management, says Dr. Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications.

Supporting the roll-out of Public Works and Infrastructure Development across the country

Currently, Coega is implementing numerous infrastructure development projects across its departmental portfolios. Coega has been appointed to implement 26 projects across the country on behalf of the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure through its debut programme,the Turnkey Projects Programme, to the value of approximately R1.3bn.

These projects, which are largely in the planning phase, range from much-needed repairs and upgrades to public facilities to the construction of new facilities located across eight provinces including the cities of Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Bloemfontein, Gqeberha, and Mahikeng, amongst others.

These projects further extend Coega’s footprint and portfolio of projects to every province in the country. This follows Coega’s excellent achievement on the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) development, in which the organisation completed approximately R4,2bn infrastructure development within a period of two years during the COVID-19 Pandemic, to the satisfaction of all partners and stakeholders who played a crucial role during construction.

As the new financial year 2024/25 swiftly approaches, Coega will continue to play a pivotal role in advancing infrastructure development as a key priority of the South African Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan. “Based on 24 years’ expertise in infrastructure delivery and maintenance, and with projects underway across the country and into Africa, Coega has demonstrated remarkable success spearheading infrastructure development and maintenance projects for health, education, public works, and other programme sectors by virtue of its competence and expertise,” concludes Mabula.

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

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

The CTA is accredited by the International Air Travel Association (IATA)and the Association of South African Travel Agents (ASATA). Newly appointed Travel Manager, Nomvuzo Zongo, says: “CTA offers a 24-hour service for convenience and peace of mind, accommodation and conferencing facilities, flight bookings, car rental at affordable rates and the best value for money, visa assistance and travel insurance to connect you to the world, foreign exchange, pre-flight check- in, and is fully B-BBEE compliant.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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