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Community Business Directory, Event Listings, News and Views from Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay

The impact of the National Shut-down on business operations in Nelson Mandela Bay

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In general most manufacturers who had planned normal operations were able to do so at the required production levels, while those in the services and retail sectors were able to operate without major disruptions, says Denise van Huyssteen, chief executive of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber.

“There were some manufacturers that were impacted by higher than normal absenteeism levels, which in certain instances resulted in adjusted production or rescheduling of shifts. Certain manufacturers in turn opted to produce over the weekend and then to close on Monday and Tuesday (the public holiday),” says Van Huyssteen.

A few manufacturers were impacted by gas shortages, due to the Coega IDZ sub-station explosion incident which resulted in a number of businesses in the IDZ not having power for more than a week.

“Stayaways, protest actions and threats to business are not a solution to the country’s electricity and loadshedding crisis and are deterring investors from risking capital investment into rebuilding our economy and retaining much needed jobs. The ongoing sustainability of businesses have been severely impacted by loadshedding and now more than ever before, we need all the role players to work together to accelerate the implementation of solutions which will provide reliable power which can meet the country’s existing and long-term energy requirements,” she says.

“We welcome the proactive initiatives of the authorities to ensure that strong policing and security are in place around Nelson Mandela Bay.  We further believe that this level of security is required on an ongoing basis around key infrastructure points to prevent the vandalism, theft and destruction of electrical sub-stations as well as water and sanitation pumpstations and facilities.” 

Additionally as a deterrent to general crime, consideration should be given to having more visible policing around the metro on a permanent basis, as is the case in many places around the world.

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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.