Coega

The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) is thrilled to announce that its Maths and Science Programme (MSP) Class of 2023 has yet again achieved a remarkable 100% pass rate. This extraordinary achievement follows on from the previous year’s achievement of 100% pass rates in Grade 12 Mathematics and Physical Science.

The MSP Class of 2023 generated ten distinctions in Mathematics and one distinction in Physical Science. Of the ninety (90) learners who completed the programme, the ten top learners were announced this past Friday, with twenty-five learners achieving above 70% in both Mathematics and Physical Science.

Speaking on behalf of the organisation, Mr. Eldon September, Coega Maths and Science Programme Facilitator says: “The organisation is immensely proud of the Class of 2023 and their incredible accomplishment. Their success is a true reflection of the impact that dedicated education and support can have on the lives of young learners. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the students, educators, and all those who have played a part in this achievement.”

The Coega MSP is one of Coega’s flagship Corporate Social Investment (CSI) Programmes, which was formed in 2013 to help matriculants improve their Grade 12 Mathematics and Physical Science results. Through this programme, Coega is able to assist matriculants with free classes and the required support to help improve their marks for university admission. “Coega is the only SEZ in South Africa that has dedicated resources towards the development of the Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) subjects. The MSP is in addition to the Coega Global Scholars Programme (CGSP), launched in 2021, which is a significant milestone for the organisation. The CGSP is a Talent Identification and Retention Programme, which seeks to strengthen the capacity of the organisation by training current and future management talent at postgraduate (Masters) level by sending them to Top Tier Global Universities specialising in STEM and related interdisciplinary studies,” says Dr. Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega’s Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications.

The Coega MSP is in line with Coega’s objectives and contributes to its vision of being a leading catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development by promoting education and skills development.It is guided by ISO 26000in terms of social responsibility and Principle 3 of the King IV Report on Corporate Governance which speaks to responsible corporate citizenship. The Programme is also aligned to the country’s National Development Plan (NDP), Vision 2030, as young people deserve improved educational and economic opportunities.

Shedding light on the programme, September explains: “The Maths and Science Programme aims to reduce the gap between supply and demand of critical scarce skills in the fields of Science, Technology and Engineering. The programme contributes to transforming young lives, providing hope to underprivileged learners who aspire to enhance their academic achievement for university admission.

Our mission is deeply rooted in the belief that education is the key to unlocking a world of opportunities. As facilitators, our aim is not only to impart knowledge but to inspire and motivate learners, guiding them towards a future where their dreams are within reach. This has led to an increased number of new entrants seeking to improve their marks, which is in line with our ultimate role of helping them pursue stimulating occupations that will not only benefit them personally but also improve our society,” adds September.

Congratulations to the Coega Maths and Science Programme Class of 2023 top three learners:

Limpho Fadane (18), who secured 86% in Mathematics and 77% in Physical Science, is set to pursue Biomedical Engineering at the University of Johannesburg, expresses her excitement: “I’m deeply interested in this course, which is why I joined the programme. It combines all the aspects I love, and I’m thrilled with the marks I’ve achieved, marking a great start to the new year, after a year that left me excited.”

Siminique Syce (18), who achieved 83% in Mathematics and 77% in Physical Science and will be pursuing a Bachelor of Science at the University of Witwatersrand, shares: “I’m delighted to pursue my desired course in biology. The MSP played a significant role, bringing unexpected and positive changes to my results. I am grateful for this transformative journey.”

Constance Mushoriwa (19), who achieved 88% in Mathematics and 73% in Physical Sciences will be pursuing Pharmacy at Rhodes University. Her advice to learners is: “Work hard, don’t lose hope, strive to improve your results to pursue your dreams. I faced challenges with 40% results in these subjects last year, but I persevered. The MSP provided hope to fulfil my dreams.”

MSP Class of 2023 Learner Ventures into Science for the first time:

Esona Mshushumbane (19), who pursued science for the first time when joining the programme, shares: “Though I had no prior experience in science, my interest in STEM led me to join the Coega MSP and venture into science for the first time. Excitedly, I have been accepted to study Engineering at Nelson Mandela University. The MSP has been influential in shaping my academic journey. The support and guidance received from the facilitators has been invaluable. With the right skills and knowledge, I will be able to take advantage of this rapidly growing industry and enjoy a fulfilling career with plenty of opportunities.”

As we celebrate this achievement, the Coega Maths and Science Programme remains committed to its mission of nurturing a new generation of STEM professionals who will contribute to the continued growth and development of South Africa.

“This year, we are yet again recruiting one hundred (100) learners to join the 2024 Coega Maths and Science Programme. We are confident that with our support, they can upgrade the quality of their Matric results to be eligible for the tertiary courses and future careers of their choosing,” concludes September.

To apply: Learners must submit their statement of matric results as well as a copy of their South African identity document by hand to security at the Coega Human Capital Solutions (HCS) Building in Zone 4 of the Coega SEZ in Gqeberha, or via email to eldon.september@coega.co.za. MSP enrolment for 2024 will close on 31 January 2024, and preference will be offered to residents of the Nelson Mandela Bay area. A strict selection process will be followed.

With the MSP’s focus being on Mathematics and Physical Science, one of the requirements for learners to be considered is completion of Grade 12, and students must have passed all subjects well, except Mathematics and Physical Science (which they need to have scored above 20%).

Coega MSP classes commence in February 2024, and will continue through to October 2024, Monday to Friday, 08h00 to 16h00.

Disclaimer: Funding is a key enabler for the Coega Skills Development Centre (SDC) to execute its training mandate. Currently, the Coega SDC solicits funding from various SETAs.

Gqeberha, South Africa, 11 January 2024 – Having celebrated a 100% pass rate for the Coega Maths and Science Programme (MSP) Class of 2022, the Coega Development Corporation (Coega) anticipates excellent results for the Class of 2023, on 19 January 2024.

Mr. Eldon September, who has been the MSP Programme Facilitator since 2013, says: “The team was very optimistic at the end of the academic year, even though paper two for both subjects, mathematics, and physical science, tend to be very challenging. Based on the feedback from students after writing each paper, we look forward to amazing results next week.”
The MSP Class of 2023 consisted of 90 learners, all looking to pursue various careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) related fields. Class of 2023 learner, Mr. Zain Limbada, hopes to study a Bachelor of Science at the University of Cape Town this year, saying: “I feel way better than I did waiting for my marks last year. I think the teachers did a great job and I am waiting to hear back from UCT.”

For 10 years and counting, Coega has implemented its flagship MSP to offer Grade 12 learners a funded opportunity to improve their matric mathematics and physical science results. The Programme is facilitated by dedicated educators at the Coega Skills Development Centre in Zone 4 of the Coega Special Economic Zone, a preferred investment destination and leading SEZ in Africa.

MSP Class of 2020 alumnus, Ms. Sanelisiwe Moss, who is currently studying towards her civil engineering degree at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, explains her journey through the Programme: “After matric, I couldn’t further my studies because my marks didn’t allow me to. Coega was the catalyst that propelled not just my academic growth but also transformed my personal life. It unearthed immense potential within me, enabling me to dream ambitiously.”

Ms. Tarryn Higgins, MSP Class of 2021 alumnus and pharmacy student at Rhodes University, describes the MSP as an excellent and helpful experience, citing a 30% increase in her mathematics and physical science marks. “I am very grateful for the chance Coega gave me to pursue my dream of becoming a pharmacist,” says Higgins.

To date, the Coega Maths and Science Programme has catapulted close to 1000 students into STEM careers. An alumni portal is currently being developed to track the progress of former learners and is expected to launch before the closure of the 2023/24 financial year.

“In the future, I see the Programme growing and changing the lives of many young people in our country,” concludes September.

Social media and communication trends are constantly evolving, and as we look ahead in 2024, it is important for organisations to stay ahead of the curve and adapt to these changes. The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) is no exception, as its communication team has been at the forefront of leveraging social media to communicate with stakeholders, partners, and the public at large, writes Hlomla Mpetsheni, Coega Marketing and Communications Intern.

Reflecting on 2023, social media trends evolved rapidly in terms of both content creation and consumption.

For example, audiences demonstrated a significant and growing interest in short- form video content. This spike in attention and engagement gave content creators as well as organisations an indication that their content needed to be packaged in a different format. Global brands like Nike, for example, leveraged this trend by creating inspirational and visually captivating short form video content to advertise the brand. For example, Nike’s recent “Dreams don’t happen overnight” video clip incorporates the element of emotive storytelling to engage audiences into the overarching Nike brand story. Based on this evolving approach to content creation, Coega explored supplementing its media releases and event updates with short video clips to engage online audiences.

A more technical example involving the evolution of social media trends is Twitter’s brand revolution and subsequent name change. When Twitter changed to “X”, organisations, including Coega, were forced to review iconography applied on marketing collateral and corporate websites to reflect the new name and logo. Of course, this modification is easier said than done. As a public entity that is fully reliant on a strict and independent procurement process, certain updates to the website tend to take longer to resolve.

Looking ahead in 2024, it is expected that social media platforms will continue to advance and evolve in terms of features, analytical data, and capabilities. One trend that is likely to continue is the proliferation of video content, particularly with the growing popularity of platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, which is one platform that Coega intends to take full advantage of. Coega’s communication team has already begun incorporating video content into its social media strategy, focusing on interviews with key stakeholders, and updates on business and project developments.

Another trend that is expected to gain momentum in 2024 is the use of interactive content, such as polls, quizzes, and interactive stories. This allows for deeper engagement with audiences, and can also be used to gather stakeholder feedback, conduct dipstick research, and generate interest in projects and initiatives.

In addition, the use of artificial intelligence and chatbots for customer service and communication are likely to become more widespread. These tools can help streamline communication and provide quick, personalised responses to enquiries.

There are several trends that Coega can leverage to further enhance its communication efforts. One such trend is the continued rise of ephemeral content, such as “stories” on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. This type of content is short- lived, creating a sense of urgency and exclusivity, which can be used to promote events, make announcements, and share updates or reminders.

Further, the use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) in social media is expected to grow in popularity. Coega can explore the use of AR filters and lenses to create unique, interactive experiences for audiences. For example, augmenting the Coega SEZ Virtual Map to offer prospective local and international investors a realistic view of the Coega SEZ, its size, landscape, and proximity to the deepwater Port of Ngqura.

It is also likely that social commerce will become more prevalent, with the integration of shopping and purchasing capabilities directly within social media platforms. This presents an opportunity for Coega to display its products and services and make it easier for stakeholders to engage in business transactions. For example, Coega can sell items through a dedicated online brand shop.

To leverage these latest trends, Coega’s communication team should continue to stay informed about the latest developments in social media and adapt its strategy accordingly. This may involve investing in new tools and technologies, creating more visually interesting content, and actively engaging with audiences using interactive features.

In conclusion, social media and communication trends will continue to evolve in the coming years, and it is important for organisations like Coega to stay ahead of the curve. By implementing innovative strategies and leveraging the latest trends, Coega can further enhance its communication efforts and continue to engage with its stakeholders in meaningful ways.

The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) is proud to announce the successful completion of three key educational institution projects in the Eastern Cape Province that were commissioned by the Department of Education (DoE). These transformative projects, which began in 2017, have now reached practical completion and are set to significantly impact the educational landscape in the region, says Dr Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega’s Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications.

The projects, which include Cebe Junior Secondary School, Krazukile Senior Secondary School (SSS), and Tyali High School, located in Centani, have a combined value of over R185 million. These educational institutions are key in providing quality education to the local community and will help contribute to building a brighter future for the students.

Coega is pleased to have served as the Trusted Implementing Agent (IA) of Choice for these important projects and is proud of the significant impact they will have on the local community. The completion of these projects demonstrates Coega’s commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure that supports and enhances education in the Eastern Cape Province.

Mr. Siyabulela Ntanta, Coega Programme Manager said that as Coega concludes the year on a high note,
the organisation looks forward to the positive impact in 2024 these completed projects will have on the educational sector in the Eastern Cape Province.

“We remain committed to partnering with the Department of Education and other stakeholders to contribute to the development and improvement of educational facilities in the region. We take immense pride in the impactful work we undertake for local communities, enriching the lives of learners and contributing to the broader landscape of education for all.

These projects stand as a testament to our commitment to advancing educational infrastructure and cultivating environments conducive to learning. The unique scope of each school project we undertake as Coega aligns with our goal of delivering quality educational facilities, on time, within scope and budget,” says Ntanta.

Cebe Junior Secondary School, valued at R59 million, has successfully reached practical completion. The project generated 89 jobs, allocating 33.75% procurement spend to local SMMEs, and included the construction of new classrooms, an administration block, a science lab, and various other facilities. The attentive planning and execution are evident in the project’s successful outcome.

Krazukile Senior Secondary School, with a project value of R52 million, showcases Coega’s commitment to education development. The project involved the construction of 2 new classrooms, an administration block, a science lab, and multipurpose and library facilities, among others. The project, having created 75 jobs, with 34.7% of the construction work awarded to local SMMEs.

Tyali High School, with an investment value of R74 million, is another testament to Coega’s dedication to education infrastructure. The project, now practically complete, involves the construction of 14 new classrooms, an administration block, a science lab, library, and more. With 84 jobs created and 24.60% of the project benefiting SMMEs, this school stands as a model for comprehensive educational development.

Ms. Nokuzola Bota, Coega Project Manager, outlines the comprehensive nature of project execution: “The overview of the execution includes initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and control, and closure. Each phase is undertaken to ensure the success and sustainability of the project. From the initial stages of planning to the monitoring and control throughout implementation, our approach is strategic and thorough. The final phase of closure signifies the fulfilment of our commitment to delivering quality outcomes.

“This execution framework reflects our dedication to excellence in every aspect of project management. We ensure that every project we embark upon leaves a lasting and positive impact on the communities we serve, adds Ms. Bota.

Coega remains steadfast in contributing to the growth and enhancement of educational infrastructure, fostering a brighter future for communities. The successful completion of these projects, with due consideration for local economic upliftment and job creation, reflects Coega’s dedication to socio-economic development in line with its vision of being a leading catalyst for championing of the socio-economic development. Therefore, Coega continues to be a beacon of hope, forming partnerships with stakeholders in the delivery and maintenance of infrastructure projects throughout the country and the African continent, concludes Dr Vilakazi.

Gqeberha, South Africa, 14 December 2023 – The Coega Development Corporation (Coega) received the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) Clean Audit Award for the financial year 2022/23 from the Auditor General South Africa (AGSA), at the Premier’s 2023 Year End Reflections glittering event hosted by the Eastern Cape Province last night Wednesday, 13 December 2023 in East London. The AGSA presented awards to government departments and public entities that achieved clean audit results.

This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of every Coega employee and stakeholders in ensuring that the organisation complies with good governance and financial management standards in accordance with the PFMA and other related National Treasury Prescripts. Particularly, this award recognises the following achievements that Coega strives for, every year:

Coega is committed to excellence, including sustained clean audit outcomes. Coega continues to be committed to Good Governance and has adopted controls and systems that clients and partners can rely on.

A clean audit report signifies credible financial statements fully aligned to international financial reporting standards.

There were no areas of noncompliance or findings on the reported performance identified by the Auditor-General of South Africa.

“Coega’s financial management practices adhere to the highest standards of transparency and accountability, reassuring tenants, stakeholders, partners, and clients, and boosting public confidence in general. Such recognition reflects the concerted efforts made by Coega’s finance team, management, and employees to maintain strict compliance with applicable legislation and financial regulations, as well as the optimal use of resources. By attaining yet another clean audit for the fourth consecutive year, Coega has reinforced its reputation as a reliable and trustworthy entity, positioning itself as an attractive partner for local and global investors and stakeholders,” says Mr. Rodger Hill, Coega’s Chief Financial Officer.

Moreover, sustaining a clean audit signifies that Coega has maintained the financial controls and systems, whilst reducing the likelihood of financial irregularities, fraud, and mismanagement. By upholding financial discipline, Coega not only mitigates financial risks but also aligns with international best practices, establishing a solid foundation to stimulate sustainable economic growth and development. This creates an opportunity for the organisation to assist other state-owned entities and government departments to achieve the same.

Coega remains steadfast in maintaining its clean audit status going forward through good corporate governance, as the organisation continues to implements its Five- Year Strategic Plan 2020/21 – 2024/2025, endorsed by its shareholder and Board of Directors, and supported by partners and stakeholders, concludes Hill.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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