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Shona Buhr | 30th July 2023 NTGR Engineering, a local engineering company, was recently crowned the fastest growing black-owned small, micro and medium enterprise (SMME) of the year during the 2023 Netbank Top Empowerment awards at the Indaba Hotel, Sandton. NTGR Engineering collected multiple awards for 2023, including a Mining Equipment Manufacturers SA (Memsa)award for Excellence in Digitised Services. Memsa awarded NTGR Engineering the award for adopting technological solutions for improved value-added services to clients. The awards have now hit their 22nd instalment in honour of outstanding leaders and companies in South Africa which have demonstrated a remarkable commitment to empowerment and transformation. These awards have become the pinnacle of recognition for the country’s business elite, celebrating their inspiration, vision, innovation, leadership and action in driving empowerment and transformation. Sponsored by Pepsico, the fastest growing black-owned SMME of the year award recognises companies that have demonstrated remarkable growth and have a strong commitment to empowerment. The category highlights businesses that have shown a year-on-year turnover growth of 20% in the last financial year, with a turnover ranging from R5-million to R35-million. Finalists are required to have at least a Level 1–4 B-BBEE scorecard or 50.1% black ownership, along with a minimum operational period of two years. In competition for the same category were 13 other companies such as Y-Brand, ProcureSense, Woodtech Concepts and Basadi Group. Other companies honoured during the awards include African Bank, Coca Cola Beverages SA, Sasol, Nestle and Sun International. Managing director of NTGR Engineering Abednico Mkhari said: “This award is truly affirming to us as a company and it tells a story of the hard work, commitment and determination of our team who work tirelessly to implement our growth strategy across our divisions. “As a business, we are committed to creating value for our clients, making a real impact in the communities we serve and contribute immensely to the socioeconomic growth of our country. “In 2022, we embarked on a momentous journey to penetrate the SADC region and are pleased to announce that we have made inroads in the DRC, Botswana and Mozambique through strategic partnerships and collaborations.” ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://sundayworld.co.za/news/business/ntgr-wins-fastest-growing-smme-2023-award/

Goitsemang Matlhabe | 27 July 2023 Johannesburg - The face of unemployment in South Africa is – according to the 2022 National Human Development report – young, black females. The report detailed that during the third quarter of 2021, South African blacks in comparison to other race groups were standing at an unemployment rate of 39%. This was at least 9% higher than that of coloured South Africans and 30% higher than that of white people. It further indicated that youth unemployment in the country was, however, also correlated with the educational levels of the youth. It revealed that a staggering 40% of unemployed youth did not possess a matric certificate, while that figure was 37% for youth with a certificate. In comparison, it added that the number of young unemployed graduates stood at 13%, which was 22% lower than the national average. The report was officially released by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) alongside the UN Development Programme (UNDP) under the guidance of the country’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu in Tshwane. “Prolonged joblessness can lead to a lost generation through the erosion of skills and human capital. We need to wean the youth from dependence on social grants to productive employment, and entrepreneurship is critical to addressing this crisis,” said UNDP resident representative, Dr Ayodele Odusolaa. In officiating the report, Mashatile said he agreed with the UNDP that the high unemployment rate in the country was a “ticking time bomb” waiting to happen. He said it was for this reason that the country would simultaneously address poverty and income equality alongside youth joblessness as a developmental imperative. “To compete among the BRICS nations and the world on a sustained and sustainable basis, we cannot but empower the youth to acquire the skills of the 21st century.” He added that government efforts to empower young people had to be premised on a growing and inclusive economy; hence, it was crucial for stakeholders to act in unison to re-industrialise and grow the country’s economy. Although the report found that South Africa faced the triple threat of slow growth, deep poverty, inequalities, and high levels of joblessness, the country still had the capability to overcome the challenge of youth unemployment. Some suggestions were for the country to be ready to seize the opportunities while minimising the associated risks. And to learn from the youth employability experiences of other countries, and most importantly, to draw on the policy options available. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.iol.co.za/the-star/news/young-black-females-are-most-unemployed-in-sa-2e9bc7da-a6f6-4853-b82b-aff9714bcc55

Rudolf Rautenbach | 26 July 2023 Service delivery is a problem in almost every municipality, but some elements could be outsourced to small black-owned enterprises. Councils can use elements of the scorecard to develop the skills they need and support local businesses. Many businesses that service local municipalities are probably aware of a black economic empowerment (BEE) requirement to do business with that municipality. Typically this means the submission of a BEE scorecard or affidavit along with the bid. Unfortunately, this aspect of BEE is often the only thing that the municipality itself is aware of. Most municipalities are unaware that they are, in fact, legally obligated to not only measure their procurement spend but implement an entire BEE scorecard for their municipality. The uptake of BEE compliance in organs of state (including municipalities) is so dire that the BEE Commission, in its National Status and Trends on Broad-based BEE Transformation Report 2021, observed that of the 326 organs of state, only 82 submitted BEE reports to the commission, something that the BEE Act compels them to do. Interestingly of these 82 entities, one-third were non-compliant. The BEE Commission might not appear to carry much weight in this process, but the auditor-general may flag this as non-compliance in that entity’s overall governance, which may impact a municipality’s clean audit status. Many municipalities are far behind on service delivery and need to show their constituents that they are making progress towards a good governance track record. Most people think about black ownership as being the most important element of BEE compliance. But in the case of municipalities, ownership isn’t a consideration at all. Municipalities are, after all, ‘owned’ by the government and hence are exempt from the ownership element. They are, however, required to implement programmes and measure their performance each year in the form of a BEE scorecard. Creating cohesion This article is not about what is required for a municipality to comply with a scorecard. Instead, we have chosen to look at how the implementation of a BEE programme can create greater cohesion within a community. To illustrate, we have only focused on three of the four elements. The first one is the skills development of black people. Some of the budget can be used on internal staff, but a lot of the money could be used for the development of core and critical skills in the community that could lead to better service delivery and more efficient governance. We have come across bursary schemes in local communities that aim to develop young people in competencies that strive toward better service delivery. All of these programmes contribute to the skills development scorecard. In one rather unique situation, a municipality paid for the education of one individual while that person was undergoing an internship in a local business. Procurement of local goods and services does not have to be concentrated on black-owned businesses exclusively. Any business with a turnover of less than R10 million need only complete an affidavit, and they are automatically BEE compliant. By supporting these types of businesses as well as black-owned businesses, municipalities are encouraging local employment. These companies can talk to municipalities about the skills they require so the municipality can start working on the development of those skills and prioritising them in their skills development programme. Service delivery is a problem in almost every municipality. Some of that service delivery can be outsourced to small black-owned businesses. This needs to be tied into the skills development programme that we discussed above to achieve a sustainable service delivery programme. These small businesses will need equipment, raw materials and other goods and services, all of which can be sourced from the businesses in the community. And finally, a municipality-driven programme that focuses on programmes like early childhood development will pay dividends for the next generation to come. Each of these programmes contributes to an ultimate BEE level in the municipality’s BEE scorecard. Not only has the municipality complied with the law, but it has made a positive difference in its communities. It has created the necessary skills, developed small businesses, purchased from those small businesses as well as many of the other small businesses in its communities and, on top of that, invested in the future of its ratepayers. In other words, they’ve delivered on their mandate and coincidentally complied with a BEE scorecard which, at the outset, seemed so complex. Rudolf Rautenbach is a chartered accountant. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.moneyweb.co.za/moneyweb-opinion/soapbox/municipal-bee-compliance-could-lead-to-better-service-delivery/

The Star : 27 July 2023 Johannesburg - On the evening of July 20, 2023, at the Indaba Hotel in Johannesburg, Topco Media and Impumelelo Top Empowerment Companies presented the 22nd annual Top Empowerment Awards Ceremony. The awards ceremony highlighted and celebrated South Africa's purpose-led transformers, highlighting their responsibility and dedication to ensuring a transformed and empowered future for the country. Alan Committie, a gifted actor and comedian, emceed the event and set the tone for an evening of acknowledgement and inspiration. Distinguished guests, transformation captains, and business leaders gathered to celebrate the significant strides organisations and individuals have made in promoting black-owned businesses and empowering people from all walks of life. ‘’I am immensely proud to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and runners-up of the Top Empowerment Awards 2023,’’ Ralf Fletcher, CEO of Top Media, said. ‘’Their remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to transformation have made an indelible impact on South Africa's economy and society. As we celebrate the 22nd annual Top Empowerment Awards, it is evident that each of them is a catalyst for positive change, driving us towards a more inclusive and prosperous future.’’ ‘’This prestigious event brought together industry leaders, trailblazers, and visionaries who exemplify the true spirit of empowerment. Their dedication and hard work inspire us all, and I am truly honoured to witness the exceptional strides they have taken in advancing our nation.’’ The top winners of the evening include: 1. Top Empowered Company: Fast Growth Black-Owned SMME of the Year Award Winner: NTGR Engineering Representative: Abednico Mkhari, Director, NTGR Engineering Runner-up: Y-BRAND 2. Top Empowered Company: Sustainable Business of the Year Award Winner: Sun International Representative: Anthony Leeming, Chief Executive, Sun International Runner-up: Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa 3. Top Empowered Company: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace of the Year Award Winner: Exxaro Recipient: Dr. Nombasa Tsengwa, CEO, Exxaro 4. Top Empowered Company: Digital Transformation of the Year Award Winner: Liquid Intelligent Technologies Recipient: Trishen Moodley, Head of Information Technology, Liquid Intelligent Technologies 5. Top Empowered Company: Public Sector of the Year Award Winner: CEF Group Recipient: Dr. Tshepo Mokoka, Chairperson, CEF Group 6. Top Empowered Company: Education and Skills Development of the Year Award Winner: BP South Africa Recipient: Taelo Mojapelo, CEO, BP Southern Africa 7. Top Empowered Company: Enterprise and Supplier Development of the Year Award Winner: African Bank Recipient: Edna Montse, Group Executive Transformation and Sustainability, African Bank Runner-up: Rennies BCD Travel 8. Top Empowered Company: Socio-Economic Development of the Year Award Winner: Sasol Recipient: Brenda Nkosi-Bakare, Head Governance, Compliance, Planning, and Management, Sasol Runner-up: Oceana Group Limited 9. Top Empowered Company: Job Creation Award of the Year Winner: Schneider Electric Recipient: Kim Naidoo, HR Lead, Schneider Electric Runner-up: Exponant 10. Top Empowered Company: Youth Development of the Year Award Winner: Nestlé Recipient: Nicole Roos, Managing Director, Nestlé 11. Top Empowered Company: Public Sector Leader of the Year Award Winner: CEF Group, Zinhle Thupana Recipient: Zinhle Thupana, Group Executive Corporate Service, CEF Group 12. Top Empowered Entrepreneur of the Year Award Winner: TakeNote IT, Mamela Luthuli Recipient: Mamela Luthuli, Director and CEO, TakeNote IT Runner-up: Mandate Molefi, Nene Molefi 13. Top Empowered Young Achiever of the Year Award Winner: Dimension Data, Natalie Musonda Recipient: Natalie Musonda, Head of Diversity and Sustainability, Dimension Data Runner-up: AfroCentric Health, Dr. Abongile Qamata 14. Top Empowered Business Leader of the Year Award Winner: Methano Group, Sereme Joel Maphaka Recipient: Sereme Maphaka, CEO, Methano Group 15. Top Empowered Business of the Year Award Winner: Merchants Recipient: Sydwell Shikweni, Vice President of Transformation, Merchants Nedbank, Inseta, Amis, SAB, Bathu Shoes, and PWC were among the Legends of Empowerment who received special attention at the event. The Lifetime Achiever Award, the greatest honour of the illustrious occasion, is given to a person who has made a lasting contribution to Africa's transformation. Velaphi Ratshefola, the managing director of Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa, received this honour. After being named managing director of Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa in 2016, Velaphi Ratshefola oversaw the consolidation of six distinct organisations to create CCBSA. Velaphi's outstanding management has brought CCBSA numerous supplier and global honours. But his dedication to elevating women doesn't stop there; it also shows in the Women@CCBSA programme, which develops female talent and promotes representation in leadership. Beyond only making money, Velaphi's goal is to have a lasting constructive influence on society by providing economic, social, and environmental benefits. Transforming South Africa: Celebrating the Visionaries Distinguished judges who were instrumental in choosing the winners were present for the event, including Tshepo Ncube, Head of International Coverage at Absa, and Noah Debeila, President and CEO of the SMME Chamber of Commerce. ‘’Together, we will continue to push boundaries, break barriers, and shape a future where equality and opportunity flourish. I have every confidence that the impact of the awards will resonate far beyond the evening, inspiring countless others to join the movement towards a more connected, inclusive, and prosperous South Africa,’’ Fletcher said. ‘’Congratulations, once again, to all the winners and runners-up. Your passion and dedication to transformation have set an example for us all. Thank you for being the driving force behind change, and I eagerly look forward to witnessing your continued success and impact on our beloved nation.’’ The Star ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.iol.co.za/the-star/partnered/the-top-empowerment-awards-2023-celebrate-transformation-pioneers-7cd76534-0268-43e8-85e6-4f7164cdae1e

Justin Chadwick | 25 July 2023 In 2019 the Citrus Growers Association (CGA) launched a R307 million Economic Transformation of Black Citrus Growers (ETBCG) Programme in partnership with the Jobs Fund, Land Bank, Department of Agriculture, AGRISETA, the LIMA Rural Development Foundation and FNB. We are proud to announce that over the past 3 years just over R161.3 million of this funding has been approved and R78.9 million disbursed to support black grower citrus operations, creating 78 permanent and 625 seasonal jobs in total, and enabling 208 hectares of new trees to be planted. The ETBCG Programme was launched following the CGA applying to the Jobs Fund for a project that would make funding and technical support available to black citrus growers for orchard establishment, expansion and rehabilitation, as well as on-farm development of various infrastructure including packhouses, bulk-water supply and irrigation systems. The Jobs Fund committed R118 million to the project, with the Land Bank agreeing to contribute an additional R116 million in loan funding. The CGA contributed R24 million, while the Department of Agriculture and AGRISETA pledged R34 million and R12 million respectively. The LIMA Rural Development Foundation was engaged as project manager and FNB was appointed the commercial-funding partner following a tender process. What has made the ETBCG Programme unique, when compared to other transformation programmes, is the way the funding has been structured. Beneficiaries have received 36% of their funding as a pure grant, which has helped reduce their debt levels and assisted them in being able to make repayments. The remaining 64% has been structured as a blended loan at lower than prime interest rates. Another major focus area has been skills development of beneficiaries to make them self-reliant as well as training in surrounding communities so they can be employed by these farming operations. To qualify for funding, growers have to have a minimum of 60% black ownership (of both assets and operations) as defined by the B-BBEE Act of 2013, while priority has also been given to enterprises with 100% black ownership. Most importantly, applicants also needed to demonstrate that they would create permanent and seasonal job opportunities with the development funding. While the ETBCG Programme was launched in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic impacted its roll-out, as well as a number of new challenges faced by the local citrus industry over the past three years, which has threatened the sustainability and profitability of farming operations. These include a major hike in farming input costs and freight rates as well as load shedding and operational issues at ports. Despite these challenges, we are pleased that the programme has disbursed R78.9 million to eight successful black farming operations across the country, with these funds being used towards access roads, land preparation, irrigation infrastructure, farm equipment, vehicles, fencing, packhouse equipment, a de-greening room, generators, a solar system, and a substation. Farmer Buyiswa Ndyenga from Sikhula Sonke Enterprises near Addo in the Eastern Cape says the programme helped considerably on their five farms. “The money came at the right time," she said. "The price of everything went up and citrus farmers were struggling. But the Programme's money helped us plant new orchards and erect a 9 km fence to stop the stealing of fruit." Luthando Farms near Kirkwood in the Eastern Cape was also a beneficiary of the programme. Farmer Nonkwanele Mzamo says a lot of work still lies ahead: "I am passionate about creating jobs. Because of the fund, it is easier to create jobs, and that feels good. Now we need to sustain these jobs." The CGA is extremely proud to be part of this ground-breaking programme, which has not only provided a major leg-up for black growers, who usually struggle to obtain loan funding and financial assistance, but has also focused on transferring skills to these farmers as well as creating new jobs in surrounding communities. The local industry has predicted that citrus exports could grow to 260 million (15 kg) cartons annually by 2032 if all role-players work together. With transformation of the industry a key priority over the next ten years, a target for black citrus growers’ contribution towards the overall 260 million vision has also been set, namely 50 million cartons annually. We believe the ETBCG Programme will contribute towards achieving this goal by assisting and supporting growers to expand their operations and export their produce to key markets across the world. The deployment of funds under the programme is expected to continue until March 2024, which will be followed by a monitoring period that will take place for another two years. The CGA would like to thank all the partners that have made the programme possible: the Jobs Fund, Land Bank, Department of Agriculture, AGRISETA, the LIMA Rural Development Foundation and FNB. We look forward to the ETBCG Programme continuing to support the increased participation of black citrus growers in the industry and in this way, contribute towards meaningful and sustainable transformation within the agricultural sector. Issued by CEO of the Citrus Growers Association (CGA), Justin Chadwick ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.polity.org.za/article/r789-million-disbursed-to-black-citrus-growers-under-the-economic-transformation-of-black-citrus-growers-programme-2023-07-25

Thank you for attending the session we hope to see you again soon. for upcoming events follow this link https://www.bee.co.za/training

Bizcommunity | 26 July 2023 Africa's largest bid, tender, proposal, pricing, writing, and sales professional event: APMP SA's 14th Annual Conference. Doing risk right: Back to basics The Association of Proposal Management Professionals South Africa (APMP SA) is thrilled to announce its 14th annual conference on 12 September 2023, as a conference within the prestigious Smart Procurement World Indaba. As Africa's premier event in winning business through proposals and pitches, APMP SA's annual conference stands out as a must-attend event for businesses and professionals across all industries that need to propose or respond to tenders to win work. APMP SA covers a skills gap in the market and is designed to provide the global and local best practices required to prepare, develop, and submit compliant and compelling proposals, tender responses and pitches. Doing risk right: Back to basics Under the theme of 'Doing Risk Right', this year’s conference will delve into the fundamental principles and strategies essential for success in the competitive business landscape. The conference will feature industry leaders delivering valuable insights on qualifying opportunities, the power of storytelling, the importance of a compelling executive summary, and the role of compliance in winning business. Attendees will also gain invaluable knowledge on pricing strategies to secure wins, navigate the current public sector tendering environment, and master the essentials of winning proposals and pitches. Collaboration and networking opportunities For the third year in a row, APMP SA has joined forces with Smart Procurement World; the renowned conference attracts sales and proposal teams, procurement teams, decision-makers, small businesses, and organisations of all sizes. This partnership fosters shared networking and collaboration, providing an advantageous platform for buyers and sellers to form meaningful relationships and explore potential business opportunities. The conference's networking events will unlock powerful insights and facilitate market access, particularly addressing small businesses’ challenges. Exhibitors gain access to expose their brands to potential buyers across markets. The APMP SA and Smart Procurement World (SPW) support the mutual goal of promoting professionalism in the supply chain life cycle, promoting small business transformation and developing crucial skills. Elevating professional development In addition to the conference's rich content and networking opportunities, attendees will enhance their skills development. APMP SA's conference offers fit-for-purpose content contributing to Continuous Professional Development (CPD) units, ensuring participants acquire the necessary skills to build and enhance their businesses in the African market. Good governance and compliance Procurement is increasingly operating in an environment of increased scrutiny. SPW and APMP understand the importance of compliance and how to promote good governance. The mutual goal of improving the sourcing processes has led to a natural collaboration between the two organisations. It represents a significant commitment from both parties to deliver value to their members and audiences. “Supply-chain consists of both buyers and sellers. By bringing procurement (the buyers) and bidders (the sellers) together, we are driving open engagement, alignment and an increased focus on the professionalism of both functions. Tender fraud needs the complicity of two parties. The tender/proposal process is two-way, and both sides must work together.” says Larissa Cornelius, director of APMP SA. Supplier development To win business, companies need to propose and bid for work. The conference leverages synergies to drive positive industry changes and promote small business (SMMEs) development. “In the context of these unprecedented times assisting big and small businesses in professional and well-awarded tenders is a priority. We cannot afford to ignore the inefficiency, and it’s our responsibility to bridge the skills gap.” says Debbie Tagg, COO of Smart Procurement World Join us at APMP SA's 14th Annual Conference Date: 12 September 2023 Venue: Gallagher Estate, Midrand, Johannesburg Ticket Cost: APMP Members: R2,875.00 Non-Members: R4,140.00 The APMP SA's 14th Annual Conference is a one-of-a-kind platform for professionals dedicated to winning business through proposals, bids, tenders and presentations. Unlock your potential, gain industry insights, and maximise your chances of ethically winning business. Secure your spot today by visiting www.APMP.org.za or email annelize@apmp.org.za, where you can also explore individual and business membership options for ongoing support and professional growth. For more information, please contact: Annelize Smit APMP SA Administrator +27 (0)83 380 2317 annelize@apmp.org.za About APMP SA: APMP SA is the South African chapter of the global Association of Proposal Management Professionals. As a professional body and non-profit organisation, APMP SA aims to provide professionals with the tools, knowledge, and resources to enhance their skills. The Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP) was formed in 1989 and is the worldwide authority for professionals dedicated to winning business through proposals, bids, tenders and presentations. APMP promotes the professional growth of its members by advancing the arts, sciences and technologies of winning business. About Smart Procurement World Smart Procurement (SP) is the largest professional development event for procurement and inbound supply chain, supported and endorsed by industry professional bodies. SP also achieves professional development for procurement and supply chain professionals while achieving economic development objectives in each region through enterprise and supplier development linking small businesses to the supply chain. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/40/240490.html

In terms of the B-BBEE Act, on 18th May 2021, a Practice Note under Gazette #44591 was published by the Minister of Trade Industry & Competition. The notice outlines the rules for discretionary Collective Enterprises. The purpose is to clarify how Ownership by Collective Enterprises is defined as Broad-Based Schemes, Employee Share Ownership Programmes, Trade Unions, Not for Profit Companies, Co-operatives, Trusts should be interpreted under the Codes of Good Practice. Ownership Services are available to assist members with Ownership structures.

A B-BBEE Verification is based on the evidence presented. Therefore, when entering into an agreement with a Beneficiary, a contract must incorporate all evidential requirements. Although parties do not enter into an agreement with the mindset that things will go wrong, the mitigation of risks must drive such an agreement. Consequently, generic Beneficiary contracts do not apply to all. It is vital that an organisation highlights all the benefits in the agreement as well as how evidence is presented for a B-BBEE Verification at the date of signature. Challenges often occur when an organisation identifies benefits by default following the signing of a contract. One may not synchronise the date of agreement to suit a benefit later revealed. B-BBEE Verification Services are available to assist members to ensure that all documentary evidence is correct.

The 2023 Annual Employment Equity Roadshows have commenced whereby the Department of Employment & Labour travel to provinces across the country to share insights on Employment Equity legislation. This year’s Roadshows would involve many questions from organisations and individuals with regards to the implementation of the Amended Employment Equity Act, Sectoral Targets and the effective date of implementation. Human Capital Services are available to assist members in planning for future Employment Equity requirements.

Pretoria Rekord | 25 July 2023 The investment has empowered individuals with valuable skills and created a sustainable source of income by creating 27 new employment opportunities in Hammanskraal. Tshwane has welcomed a major boost to job creation in the township of Hammanskraal through a major foreign investor. Nestlé South Africa has this month made a bold move to invest R79-million in the local economic development of the Hammanskraal region, boasting skill development and job creation in the rural economy in the northern region of Tshwane. The investment in the area, which was also massively hit by a series of cholera outbreaks recently, has led to the creation of a cutting-edge coffee production plant in Babelegi, providing jobs and skills to the locals. The plant has already created 27 jobs, with more on the horizon. Of the 27 employees, 24 are employed in production and three are based in engineering within the plant. Not only will the community benefit from this venture, but the coffee market within Tshwane will also reap the rewards. The production plant will oversee the local production of Nescafé coffee mixes with 46% locally sourced ingredients. Tshwane MMC for economic development Hannes Coetzee said this new production line’s primary goal is to increase employment prospects in the Hammanskraal region. “Additionally, this is attempting to fulfil market needs and guarantee a consistent supply of coffee mixes.” Coetzee said Nestlé is one of Tshwane’s key foreign direct investors. “The company is making significant contributions to the city’s economic growth and development goals.” Coetzee said this commitment to community upliftment strengthens the community, both economically and through the provision of exceptional products. “Overall since Nestlé’s arrival they have invested around R400-million in the local economy, resulting in the creation of nearly 300 permanent job opportunities in the region,” Coetzee said. He said this investment in localising production exemplifies its commitment to building strong partnerships with local communities, fostering economic development, and embracing technological advancements. “By producing locally, Nestlé aims to streamline supply chain operations, reduce environmental impact, and ensure fresher products for consumers.” He said the city is appreciative of Nestlé’s contribution to its industrialisation and localisation initiatives. “We are grateful for their continuous loyalty, commitment and trust in South Africa’s future and the resiliency of Tshwane’s economy,” Coetzee concluded. Brian Soldaat of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition emphasised the importance of government collaborating with the private sector. “This investment supports the growth of the local economy by localising production and this sets a positive example for the industry,” Soldaat said. He said the importance of collaboration with local communities, economic development, and sustainable business practices leads to the growth of the local economy. “This project has empowered individuals with valuable skills and created a sustainable source of income by creating 27 new employment opportunities in engineering and production.” Nestlé East and Southern Africa business executive officer Carl Khoury said this manufacturing plant demonstrates its dedication to the local market. “We take pride in our investment in this production plant as it reflects our dedication to nurturing the potential of the region and contribution to rebuilding the economy.” Khoury said this marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to meeting local market needs and supporting economic development. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://rekord.co.za/464359/r79-million-production-plant-investment-in-hammanskraal/

Arrive Alive | 24 July 2023 Engen has partnered with the Disability Economic Empowerment Trust (DEET) to launch an artisan training programme for 100 people with disabilities that will assist them with the skills required to enter the job market. Rolling out in Upington, in the Northern Cape this month, a group of 20 trainee beneficiaries commenced a one-month carpentry training course covering table, chair and cupboard manufacturing as well as door and ceiling installation. Working closely with Disabled People SA and various government departments, Engen and the DEET have worked together since 2019 on various initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life of persons with disabilities through the equalization of opportunities, poverty reduction, and promotion of social inclusion. Casvin Neville Jonkers, a beneficiary on the carpeting learnership said he thoroughly enjoyed the course, which was very challenging due to his disability, but he is feeling very excited about all the new techniques of woodwork he has learnt. “As an amputee, I can’t properly work with my left hand, but this course gave me all the skills I need and will definitely open doors for me. We learnt how to make furniture, how to install doors, cupboards and ceilings. “This is a dream come true. I feel I can express myself creatively through my hands and I hope to start a business in woodwork.” Sydney Coetzee says when he heard about the carpentry learnership rolling out in Upington, he made sure he was the first on the list. “I received my own took box which is the best gift I have ever received in my life. I want to thank Engen and DEET for bringing this very important training to Upington and for helping to develop people with disabilities. We all enjoyed the training so much that we asked for an extension.” Israel Malatsi said the training was very well organized, with excellent facilitators who went above and beyond. “I am truly grateful to Engen for funding this project and to DEET for bringing this skills development learnership to persons living with disabilities in my area. The Northern Cape has been neglected over the years.” To date, the artisan training programme has afforded 65 persons with the opportunity to developskills and competencies required to enter the workplace or even start their own business, enabling them to live a dignified life and contribute to the economy in a meaningful way. Engen’s Head of Transformation and Stakeholder Engagement, Dr James Nyawera says the project will provide skills and competencies which the beneficiaries will be able to use throughout their lives either as employees or as entrepreneurs. “The project is intended to improve the conditions and living standards of persons with disabilities, by providing participants with skills that they can use to earn a living,” says Nyawera. The skills programme will run over a six-month period and will also include refresher training sessions. It is open to South African citizens under the age of 35 and aims to provide occupational qualifications and practical skills for 35 plumbers, 30 wheelchair repair persons and 35 carpenters across the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and the Northern Cape. Expressing his gratitude to Engen for their renewed support, CEO of the Disability Economic Empowerment Trust (DEET), Thabiso Phetuka says essential work skills and qualifications opens-up a whole host of new prospects for participants and guarantees sustainable livelihoods. “Our partnership with Engen provides hope to job seekers with disabilities and those who aspire to start their own businesses, who previously have been unsuccessful in securing a position, as a result of not having the necessary skills or confidence,” says Phetuka. Engen’s continued commitment to DEET fulfills South Africa’s ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which was signed in 2007, as well as the White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disability that was approved by Cabinet in 2015 as part of domesticating the convention. “The rationale behind our drive to support persons with disabilities is not only about upholding the Constitutional principles of non-discrimination on the basis of disability but also to put tangible measures in place to support developmental interventions, so that people living with disabilities can become inclusive, contributing members of society,” adds Nyawera. Disability inclusion is one of Engen’s key social investment focus areas, giving the company the opportunity to contribute towards inclusive disability rights in South Africa. As a company, Engen champions nine of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4 – Quality Education, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. “As a caring and inclusive company with ‘heart’, this aligns with Engen’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which endeavour to ensure a better and more sustainable future for all,” comments Nyawera. In 2021, Engen partnered with DEET to launch a driver disability training programme for people with disabilities assisting 100 new drivers in five provinces with all the necessary requirements and skills needed to pass their learner’s and driver’s license and enter the job market. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.arrivealive.co.za/news.aspx?s=1&i=64161&page=engen-supports-upington-disabled-artisans-enter-the-workplace