Manufacturing Indaba 2025 Conference and Exhibition
15 – 16 July 2025, Sandton Convention Centre, JHB
Africa is home to 15% of the world’s population and abundant resources, yet it contributes only around 3% to global manufacturing. Manufacturing is crucial for job creation and driving sustainability across the continent, offering a pathway to self-sufficiency and economic growth.
Manufacturing Indaba is an established annual event dedicated to driving Africa’s reindustrialization by fostering local manufacturing, connecting leaders, and empowering businesses to grow and create jobs.
Join us for two days of dynamic discussions, unparalleled networking, and actionable strategies to shape Africa’s manufacturing future – for Africa, by Africa.
By Felix Spies, Founder of Siyafunda Education Foundation
Introduction
In an era where technology touches every aspect of our lives, the lines between technical and non-technical fields are increasingly blurred. No matter your career path, whether in business, healthcare, education, or the arts, a fundamental understanding of coding and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) literacy has become indispensable. This article explores why coding and STEM skills are essential, even if you don’t plan to work in tech, and how they empower individuals to navigate and thrive in a technology-driven world.
The integration of technology in all careers
The pervasive influence of technology has transformed industries across the board. Whether it’s precision farming in agriculture, data analytics in finance, or digital marketing in retail, technology is now a core component of virtually every profession. According to a 2023 report by McKinsey & Company, over 50% of current work activities could be automated using existing technologies. This means that regardless of your field, having a grasp of coding and STEM literacy is crucial for staying relevant and competitive.
In South Africa, for example, the integration of technology into traditional industries like mining and manufacturing has necessitated a workforce that is not only familiar with these tools but also capable of leveraging them for improved efficiency and innovation. Globally, this trend is mirrored in the rapid adoption of digital tools across sectors, making coding and STEM skills increasingly valuable in non-tech fields.
Coding as a bridge to understanding and applying STEM concepts
At its core, coding is about problem-solving. It teaches logical thinking, structured approaches to challenges, and a methodical way of working—skills that are directly transferable to any field. For instance, in the healthcare industry, coding can be used to create algorithms that improve patient care through better data management and analysis. Even in the arts, coding can be employed to develop interactive digital media or manage large-scale creative projects efficiently.
Beyond problem-solving, coding fosters critical engagement with technology. It enables individuals to not just use digital tools but also understand and optimize them for specific tasks. This level of engagement is particularly important in STEM fields, where the ability to critically assess and adapt technology can lead to significant innovations. For example, in environmental science, coding can be used to model climate change scenarios, helping researchers make more informed decisions.
The intersection of coding, STEM, and interdisciplinary applications
The true power of coding and STEM literacy lies in their interdisciplinary applications. In fields like business and management, coding can streamline operations, enhance financial analysis, and support strategic planning. A 2022 report by Harvard Business Review highlighted how businesses that incorporate coding into their decision-making processes can better harness the power of data to drive growth and innovation.
In the humanities and social sciences, coding and STEM concepts are increasingly being used to analyze large datasets, conduct complex research, and create new forms of digital media. For example, social scientists use coding to analyze social media trends, while historians might employ data visualization techniques to present historical data in more accessible ways. These applications demonstrate that coding and STEM literacy are not confined to traditional tech roles but are invaluable across a wide range of disciplines.
Preparing for the future: Lifelong learning and technological adaptability
As technology continues to evolve, so too must the skills of the workforce. Coding and STEM literacy provide a foundation for lifelong learning, equipping individuals with the tools they need to adapt to new technologies and changing job roles. In today’s fast-paced world, the ability to learn and apply new skills quickly is a key determinant of career success.
This adaptability is particularly important in the context of South Africa’s evolving job market, where youth unemployment remains a significant challenge. By investing in coding and STEM education, the country can cultivate a workforce that is not only skilled but also versatile, capable of thriving in a variety of industries. Globally, this adaptability is echoed in the increasing demand for workers who can seamlessly transition between roles, driven by a deep understanding of both technology and STEM concepts.
Siyafunda Education Foundation’s role in promoting coding and STEM literacy
The Siyafunda Education Foundation (SEF) has been at the forefront of promoting coding and STEM literacy among South African youth. Through various programs, SEF has empowered students with the skills needed to excel in a technology-driven world, regardless of their career aspirations. These initiatives have not only improved educational outcomes but also helped bridge the gap between traditional education and the demands of the modern workforce.
SEF’s efforts align with global development goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). By fostering a culture of lifelong learning and adaptability, SEF is preparing the next generation of workers to meet the challenges of the future head-on. The success stories emerging from SEF’s programs underscore the transformative power of combining coding with STEM education, creating opportunities for students across a broad spectrum of fields.
Conclusion
In today’s interconnected and technology-driven world, coding and STEM literacy are no longer optional—they are essential skills for success in any career. Whether you’re planning to work in healthcare, business, the arts, or any other field, understanding coding and engaging critically with STEM concepts will equip you with the tools you need to innovate, adapt, and thrive. As technology continues to shape the future, those who embrace these skills will be well-positioned to lead in any industry.
The development of small businesses can help to fight unemployment in South Africa, which has soared to a record 33.5%, according to data recently released by Statistics South Africa. Recognising this and reflecting the group’s commitment to helping SMMEs (small, medium and micro enterprises) to flourish, Absa will once again host the annual Absa Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) Expo and Absa Smart Supplier Conference in Gauteng.
Kgalaletso Tlhoaele, head of Enterprise Development at Absa Group
Taking place on 10 and 11 September 2024 in Midrand, these are South Africa’s largest and longest standing events aimed at connecting local suppliers to corporate supply chains and educating and uplifting small businesses. They form part of the 18th annual Smart Procurement World Indaba. More than 200 SMMEs will showcase their products and services at the expo.
At the conference, senior buyers will outline the various processes that are essential to access their markets. Business experts will be available at an SMME Helpdesk to answer pressing questions and help small businesses to address challenges and identify opportunities.
The event also features an SMME Clinic offering training and networking assistance. Supplier MatchUp sessions will give SMMEs a chance for one-on-one interactions in which to ask buyers questions about their processes and to make themselves known. The buyers will benefit, too, by having the opportunity to build their base of competent, reliable SMME suppliers.
An open day on 11 September 2024 will enable all visitors to attend the event’s knowledge hub session and reap the benefits of business-to-business networking.
The not to be missed sessions at this year’s conference include the compelling opening keynote by Steven Sajja, co-founder and technology partner at Bora Growth Partners. He will examine the state of the South African business landscape and share his insights and advice on how small businesses can overcome the current challenges and leverage opportunities.
Strategies for small businesses to successfully access market opportunities will be explored by a panel of experts in one of the important panel discussions. The panelists who will share their experience and expertise are Preshan Rambridge and Michal Pillay from Absa Group, Brad Watridge from Hot Mustard Africa, Este Pretorius from Boost Sales and Lemoen Marketing’s Berdine Smit. The discussion, moderated by Elmarie Goosen, founder of The Clinic with Purpose, will include tips for successful networking, marketing and building relationships with potential clients.
“The Absa Enterprise and Supplier Development Expo in partnership with Smart Procurement World reinforces our dedication to leveraging smart procurement practices in an effort to create an inclusive economy and is aligned with our strategy to be a force for good in everything that we do,” comments Kgalaletso Tlhoaele, head of Enterprise Development at Absa Group.
“We see financial inclusion as an opportunity for substantial impact and believe that by bringing all the key players in the procurement ecosystem together, we can open windows of opportunity for SMMEs and other beneficiaries to connect with corporate buyers, service providers that facilitate access to markets and potential partners,” he states.
Smart Procurement chief operating officer Debbie Tagg urges all SMMEs to attend the Absa ESD Expo and Absa Smart Supplier Conference. She stresses that these events also offer a vital opportunity for corporates to support, empower and connect with small businesses, for their own benefit and for the country and economy. “South Africa’s Small Business Development Department is committed to reform that will drive small business growth. Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams has said that her department will ‘direct its energies to reforms that unlock the potential of SMMEs’. However, accessing markets and sustainable contracts remains a critical challenge for small suppliers and businesses in South Africa.
“Absa, in partnership with Smart Procurement World, aims to address this and ensure that SMMEs have the skills, knowledge and connections to access their markets and contribute to economic growth as proficient, corporate ready suppliers.”
Tagg notes that there has been an upward turn in buying trends this year. “With the difficult years that followed the pandemic behind them, SMMEs are re-engaging and showing a positive appetite for market opportunities. We need to accelerate the development of small businesses now and leverage their power to fight unemployment and drive inclusive economic growth,” she concludes.
This year’s Absa ESD Expo and Smart Supplier Conference event partners are Afrimat, BP, GEMS, Maskew Miller Learning, NTT Data, PPECB, Proudly SA, Sasol, Siemens and Gauteng Treasury.
The lift at Graskop Gorge is proving a great attraction. Credit: Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA)
A regional overview of Mpumalanga Province
By John Young
The general elections of 2024 prompted reflections in many spheres on three decades since the first democratic elections were held. In March 2024, Mpumalanga Premier Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane’s State of the Province address listed many consequential changes that have occurred in Mpumalanga in that timeframe:
Population increased from 3.3-million to 5.1-million
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew from R46-billion to R530-billion
Off very low levels, 87% of households have access to piped clean water
93% have access to adequate sanitation
More than 94% of residents have access to electricity
Mtsweni-Tsipane, who was succeeded as provincial premier by fellow ANC member Mandla Ndlovu, was elected by the government of national unity (GNU) as the new chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).
More change is coming to the province in the next 30 years. Mpumalanga is often thought of as the Coal Province or the Power Station Province. These are fair assessments, given the number of coal mines and coal-fired power stations the province hosts. Of course, Mpumalanga is also the province where six of the nine gates are located that allow access to the Kruger National Park, one of South Africa’s greatest tourism assets.
Stainless steel, gold, chemicals, dairy and beef, agriculture in many varieties, huge forestry plantations and processing plants – these are also distinctive characteristics of the “Place of the Rising Sun”.
The sun is a great source of energy, but for Mpumalanga, it is wind power that is in full flow.
Wind power
The South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) published a “Winter Energy Outlook” in May 2024 in which it noted that South Africa now has wind power capacity of 2GW, potentially powering approximately 3.6-million households annually.
Two major projects, one in Mpumalanga and one on behalf of companies that will use green power in the province, are highlighted in the SAWEA document: Seriti Green’s Ummbila Emoyeni wind farm in Mpumalanga, which will generate 155MW as part of the project’s initial phase of a broader 900MW renewable energy cluster, and the Impofu cluster of wind farms in the Eastern Cape which will generate a combined 336MW to supply two major industrial companies, Sasol and Air Liquide. These projects bring a combined 491MW and R13.5-billion investment.
The country’s wind project development pipeline currently stands at 32GW, and with Mpumalanga now joining the ranks of provinces offering wind farms, that pipeline is sure to grow. These and other renewable energy projects will not only provide power but also help the province and the country along the road to a cleaner, more environmentally friendly economy.
In pursuit of that goal, the Provincial Government of Mpumalanga has established the Mpumalanga Green Cluster Agency to bring together government, academia and industry to create the environment for businesses to develop in a green economy.
The Cluster, an initiative of the Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development and Tourism with the support of GreenCape and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), has joined the International Cleantech Network, a group that has 15 000 businesses affiliated to it across the globe.
National utility Eskom is also moving into the new era, partly through a process whereby the entity will be broken into three more competitive units, but more immediately through the announcement of 18 winning bids from independent power producers (IPPs) for renewable projects on Eskom land, 4 000ha of which the utility has made available for this first phase. Eskom owns 36 000ha in the province. A total of 1 800MW will become available to the grid and it will be cheaper to transmit because the solar or wind plants will be right next to the existing Eskom transmission lines.
A Mine Water Coordinating Body (MWCB) has successfully been launched to help manage the after-effects of the closure of mines and power stations. The bad results of one such water leakage are dealt with in the Mining Overview.
Many of Mpumalanga’s coal-fired power stations are either in the process of being closed or will shortly be shut down and the same is true of some coal mines that have reached the end of their lives. Eskom, together with mining houses Exxaro, Glencore and Thungela Resources, formed the MWCB to address environmental and socio-economic challenges that might arise.
Issues such as water also fall under the ambit of a broader mine-industry related coalition known as the Impact Catalyst which has been launched in Mpumalanga.
The University of Mpumalanga’s reputation grows as its campus and its programmes expand. It will make a greater contribution to the province’s economy in years to come. Credit: UMP
Investment options
Several infrastructure investment projects in the tourism sector have been put forward by the Mpumalanga Economic Growth Agency (MEGA).
There is a special focus on BRICS countries and the province has welcomed more than one new flight to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport since 2022, including Safair and the tourist division of Lufthansa, Eurowings Discover.
The TRILAND partnership with Eswatini and Mozambique is another avenue, as is the collaboration with KwaZulu-Natal, Eswatini, Mozambique and the Seychelles.
MEGA is an equity investor in several Mpumalanga concerns, including Afrimat, Highveld Fruit Packers, Kangwane Anthracite, Loopspruit Winery and Tekwane Lemon Farm.
In the Nkangala District Municipality, a public-private partnership is due to deliver a hotel and conference centre in the town of Middelburg in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality. This follows the opening of a Safari Hotel by Radisson in Hoedspruit, on the edge of the Kruger National Park.
Elsewhere, mining and timber companies are making large investments in increased production or in extending the life of mines.
A major concern for provincial planners is to diversify the economy and to grow the manufacturing sector. The Mpumalanga Economic Growth and Development Path (MEGDP) identifies beneficiation, agro-processing and the development of value chains as priorities. Various industrial parks are planned which will focus on agriculture and forestry, mining and metals and petrochemicals. An International Fresh Produce Market in Nelspruit and the planned Nkomazi SEZ (Special Economic Zone) are other priorities.
Steel and associated manufacturing remains one of the province’s strong suits and Mpumalanga has rich and varied mineral resources and fertile soil that support diverse farming operations, agro-processing and forestry. The province also hosts large companies in the manufacturing sector such as Middelburg Ferrochrome and the Manganese Metal Company.
The province’s rich agricultural produce is used by companies such as McCain, Nestlé and PepsiCo and there are also pulp and paper plants (Sappi and Mondi), with PG Bison greatly increasing its production capacity at its Mkhondo particleboard plant after two investment injections of R600-million (on a press and forming line) and R560-million (on a front-end dryer).
York Timbers is another forestry company and the sugar mills and refinery of RCL Foods (formerly TSB Sugar) along with fertiliser facilities and textile manufacturing concerns are all contributors to the provincial economy.
Sappi’s Ngodwana Mill not only plays a vital role in the provincial economy but is an innovator in biomass energy. Credit: Sappi
The southern half of the eastern limb of the platinum-rich Bushveld Igneous Complex runs south towards the towns of Lydenburg and Machadodorp. Deposits of chromite, magnetite and vanadium in this area are the basis of the ferro-alloy complex in Witbank-Middelburg and Lydenburg.
The town of eMalahleni is the centre of the coal industry. Other minerals found in the province include gold, platinum group minerals, chromite, zinc, cobalt, copper, iron and manganese.
Middelburg is home to Columbus Stainless, South Africa’s only producer of stainless steel, and several big engineering works. It is about 130km from Pretoria and less than three hours’ drive from the Malelane Gate of the Kruger National Park.
The Kruger National Park remains the province’s most-visited asset but the decision by UNESCO to afford World Heritage Site status to the Makhonjwa
Mountains near Barberton will boost geological tourism to the province and supports the efforts of the province to diversify its offerings. Major projects to improve tourist experiences are underway at the Graskop Gorge (where a transparent lift takes tourists into the depths of the gorge), a Skywalk is to be built at God’s Window and a cable car is planned for Three Rondavels.
The international body’s decision has also had the effect of expanding the curriculum at the University of Mpumalanga. On the basis of the UNESCO ruling, UMP has a new offering in geology as part of a BSc degree.
The spectacular Blyde River Canyon in Mpumalanga Province. Credit: MEGA
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept, it’s a powerful tool that’s reshaping how businesses operate today. For business owners and managers, understanding and leveraging AI can lead to significant improvements in efficiency, customer satisfaction and overall performance. Let’s explore how AI is impacting everyday business operations and how you can harness its potential.
Automate
One of the most immediate benefits of AI in business is its ability to automate repetitive tasks. This frees up your team to focus on more strategic, value-adding activities. Examples include: data entry and processing; invoice management; appointment scheduling; basic customer inquiries. By implementing AI-powered automation, you can reduce human error, speed up workflows and allow your employees to dedicate their time to more complex, creative endeavours that drive growth.
Customer service
AI is revolutionising customer service through chatbots and virtual assistants. These AI-powered tools can handle a wide range of customer inquiries 24/7, providing instant responses and improving overall customer satisfaction. Benefits include: reduced wait times for customers; consistent service quality; ability to handle multiple inquiries simultaneously; freeing up human agents for more complex issues. In one instance, a multinational bank implemented AI chatbots and saw a 40% decrease in customer wait time and a significant increase in customer-service efficiency.
Data analysis
AI excels at processing and analysing vast amounts of data, providing insights that can inform better business decisions.
Applications include: market-trend analysis; customer-behaviour prediction; risk assessment; resource-allocation optimisation. By leveraging AI for data analysis, you can make more informed, strategic decisions that give your business a competitive edge.
Personalised marketing
AI algorithms can analyse customer data to deliver highly personalised marketing experiences. This leads to more effective marketing campaigns and increased sales conversions. Examples include: tailored-product recommendations; personalised email campaigns; dynamic-pricing strategies; targeted advertising. An e-commerce company that implemented AI for personalised marketing saw a 35% increase in customer engagement and a significant boost in sales conversions.
Supply-chain management
AI can significantly improve supply-chain management by predicting demand fluctuations, optimising inventory levels and suggesting efficient shipping routes. Benefits include: reduced delays; minimised carrying costs; more efficient inventory management; improved responsiveness to market changes.
Predictive maintenance
For businesses with equipment or machinery, AI-powered predictive maintenance can be a game-changer. By analysing sensor data, AI can predict when equipment is likely to fail, allowing for proactive maintenance. Advantages: reduced downtime; lower repair costs; extended equipment lifespan; improved safety.
Risk assessment
In the financial sector, AI is being used for algorithmic trading, risk assessment and fraud detection. This enhances both efficiency and security in financial operations. Applications: real-time fraud detection in transactions; credit-risk assessment; automated financial reporting; investment portfolio optimisation.
The impact of AI on everyday business operations is profound and far-reaching. From automating routine tasks to enabling data-driven decision-making, AI offers tools that can significantly enhance your business’s efficiency and competitiveness. However, it’s important to approach AI implementation thoughtfully. Ensure that your team is prepared to work alongside AI systems and that the AI solutions you choose align with your specific business goals.
As AI technology continues to evolve, staying informed and open to its possibilities will be crucial for business success. By embracing AI, you can streamline your operations, improve customer experiences and position your business for growth in an increasingly digital world.
SAPICS director and supply chain specialist Karen Pretorius.
A company’s supply chain is responsible for most of its environmental impact. Global supply chains account for more than 90% of the impact on air, land, water, biodiversity and geological resources, and they are responsible for more than 80% of greenhouse gas emissions. These are some of the reasons why it is imperative to build sustainable supply chains, stresses SAPICS, The Professional Body for Supply Chain Management.
To equip supply chain professionals with the skills and know how to do this, the organisation has lined up a not to be missed masterclass. Facilitated by SAPICS director and supply chain specialist Karen Pretorius, this two-day workshop is being offered in partnership with the United States-based Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), to which SAPICS is affiliated.
The online masterclass, which takes place on 27 and 28 September 2024, will unpack key sustainability concepts and explore how they relate to supply chains. “It is crucial for supply chain practitioners to understand and apply sustainability. It is much more than being green. It is about making sure that every business decision you make is geared towards ensuring that your business and our planet is there for us and for generations to come,” Pretorius stresses.
In the masterclass, she will discuss the challenges as well as sustainability risks for supply chain professionals. How the concepts of net zero, the triple bottom line and materiality apply within supply chain management will be explored, along with greenhouse gas emissions and “Sustainable Development Goals”.
While sustainable supply chains are good for people, the environment and the planet, Pretorius notes that they are good for business, too. “Incorporating sustainable supply chain management helps improve an organisation’s productivity, company partnerships and branding, while promoting a positive work culture, mitigating risk and making the company more competitive.
“Across the globe, corporations are pledging to work only with first tier suppliers who are committed to supply chain sustainability, and who ask the same from their suppliers. Consumers, too, are increasingly concerned about organisations’ commitment to sustainability. Research shows that they want to buy products that are responsibly sourced or manufactured, and that support biodiversity. An interesting trend is their growing interest in businesses’ carbon footprints.
“While transitioning to more sustainable supply chain management has its challenges, following proven best practices will help ensure a smooth process from end-to-end while benefiting both the planet and your bottom line,” Pretorius says.
She explains that some of the challenges in sustainable supply chain management include costs, the need for new frameworks and processes, and a mindset shift. “Being prepared for the hurdles that may lie ahead will better equip you with the tools and tactics you need to make a successful transition to sustainable supply chain management,” she states.
To learn more, or register for the “Building a Sustainable Supply Chain – Best Practices and Solutions” masterclass, go to: https://sapics.glueup.com/event/114625/
Carlton Jones High School, Chezelle Davids, Lesego Mafane, Alwethu Njengele.
The South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) hosted its 33rd International Bridge Building Competition at the Midrand Conference Centre, showcasing 16 schools from around South Africa, with one from Swaziland. The very first SAICE Bridge Building Competition was held in 1991, and it aimed to encourage high school learners to apply their knowledge of mathematics and science in a practical engineering manner.
Participants arrived early in the morning for a briefing, where they were given the rules and expectations of competition. Each team was given 25 sticks, string and glue to construct a bride that would span 700mm. This tested the learners’ ability to work in teams and apply what they learnt in school in a real-world engineering problem.
The day was filled with anticipation as teams worked tirelessly to bring their designs to life. Creativity was on full display as students explored various approaches to bridge construction, each solution reflecting their unique problem-solving skills. Once completed, the bridges were put to the test, measuring both the strength and the design efficiency of the structures. The testing phase was a tense but thrilling moment for participants, as the results of their hard work were evaluated in real-time.
This year’s competition brought together 16 schools from diverse backgrounds, each having earned a place in the finals through regional qualifying events hosted by SAICE branches across the country. The inclusion of a school from Swaziland added an international flair to the event, further enriching the experience for everyone involved. The diversity of the schools in attendance is a testament to SAICE’s commitment to creating an inclusive platform for young learners, regardless of their background, to engage with engineering.
The participating schools included Domino Servite School, Ooskus Gimnasium, Pretoria Heights Academy, HTS Kimberley, Hoerskool Sentraal, Durban High School, Aquadene Secondary School, Madibogo Secondary School, Sarel Cilliers High School, Secunda High School, HTS Tom Naude, Carlton Jones High School, HTS Daniel Pienaar, HTS John Voster, Parktown Boys High, and St John Bosco High School from Swaziland.
The International Bridge Building Competition would not have been possible without the support of its sponsors. Companies such as BVi Consulting Engineers, Form-Scaff, WBHO, Richem, and Waco Engineering Services contributed generously to ensure the success of the event. These partnerships not only provided the necessary resources to run the competition but also connected the learners with real-world engineering firms, giving them insight into potential career paths within the industry.
The event concluded with a prize-giving ceremony to honour the top-performing teams. During the prize-giving segment, the SAICE CEO, Sekadi Phayane-Shakhane delivered an inspiring welcome, congratulating the learners for their efforts and emphasising the critical role events like these play in nurturing the future of the engineering profession. She commended the young participants for their innovation and teamwork, qualities essential to the civil engineering field.
Following the announcement of the winners, the SAICE President offered heartfelt words of thanks and closure, expressing his gratitude to all who made the day possible – from the educators who mentored the students to the sponsors who believed in the event’s mission. He emphasised the importance of such competitions in sparking a lifelong interest in engineering and encouraged the students to continue pursuing their passions within STEM fields.
This year’s competition demonstrates SAICE’s ongoing commitment to fostering the development of young engineers and ensuring the growth and sustainability of the civil engineering profession. Through initiatives like the Bridge Building Competition, SAICE not only provides a platform for young minds to shine but also contributes to the long-term development of South Africa’s infrastructure.
As SAICE looks to the future, the International Bridge Building Competition remains a foundation of its efforts to inspire the next generation of civil engineers. With the continued support of sponsors, educators, and learners, SAICE is committed to building a bright future for the profession – one bridge at a time.
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research’s (CSIR) Energy Storage Testbed is a pioneering initiative that exists under the framework of the World Bank’s Energy Storage Partnership, in collaboration with the Flemish Government and Vlaamse Instelling voor Technologisch Onderzoek (VITO) or the Flemish Institute of Technological Research.
Designed to promote energy storage in developing countries, this state-of-the-art facility is an indoor battery testbed focusing on battery cells, modules and packs. With its strategic collaborations and advanced infrastructure, the CSIR Energy Storage Testbed is revolutionising the battery testing landscape in South Africa.
Our value proposition
Comprehensive testing services: The facility offers extensive testing capabilities, including performance and reliability testing, battery calendar life, storage capacity, cycle life, depth of discharge, verification and validation, aged battery services, battery aftermarket services and postmortem analysis.
Quality assurance: Ensuring high standards and quality for lithium-ion batteries, the CSIR testbed helps protect industry and consumers from substandard technologies.
Innovative solutions: By repurposing defective and used batteries, the facility supports waste reduction and promotes sustainable practices in the battery industry.
Unique selling points
Advanced infrastructure: Equipped with the latest technology, including a 32-channel Chroma battery tester and a 1 000-litre Weiss climate chamber, the facility can conduct rigorous and precise testing under various environmental conditions.
Strategic collaborations: Partnering with VITO and supported by the Flemish Government, the CSIR testbed benefits from international expertise and cutting-edge resources.
Support for standards development: Assisting the South African Bureau of Standards in creating comprehensive standards for lithium-ion batteries, filling a critical gap in the industry.
Diverse applications: Catering to a wide range of markets, including stationary batteries, microgrids, electric mobility, medical industry, agriculture and road works.
Energy storage innovation: Addressing the intermittency challenge of renewable energy and providing solutions for loadshedding through large-scale battery storage systems.
Accessibility
Located within the Pretoria Campus in South Africa, the facility is easily accessible to local and international clients. The testbed’s services are designed to be user-friendly and flexible, accommodating various client needs and schedules.
Speed and agility
The CSIR Energy Storage Testbed offers quick turnaround times for testing and results, ensuring that clients can promptly integrate findings into their operations. The facility’s agility is reflected in its ability to handle a wide array of battery types and applications, from initial testing to postmortem analysis.
Pricing
The CSIR testbed provides competitive pricing tailored to the needs of different stakeholders, from large corporations to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs). Custom packages and flexible pricing models ensure affordability and value for all clients.
To learn more, contact the CSIR Energy Storage Testbed supervisor, Renesh Thakoordeen at rthakoordeen@csir.co.za
Advantages
Cutting-edge equipment: State-of-the-art testing devices ensure accurate and reliable results.
Expert team: Highly skilled personnel with extensive knowledge in battery technology and performance testing.
Collaborative opportunities: Open invitation for corporates and SMMEs to collaborate on research and development projects.
Sustainable practices: Emphasis on repurposing and recycling batteries, promoting sustainability in the industry.
Consulting research and development services: Skilled personnel provide expert advice on renewable energy and energy storage.
CSIR Researchers
Why engage with the CSIR Energy Storage Testbed?
Trusted expertise: Leverage the CSIR’s reputation for excellence in scientific research and industrial support.
Comprehensive support: From manufacturers to end-users, receive end-to-end support across the battery value chain.
Innovative edge: Stay ahead with access to the latest advancements and best practices in battery technology.
Sustainable impact: Contribute to environmentally friendly practices through the facility’s focus on recycling and repurposing batteries.
Cross-cutting expertise: Leverage the multidisciplinary expertise across a wide range of fields.
Contact information
To learn more about the CSIR Energy Storage Testbed and explore collaboration opportunities, visit CSIR’s official websiteor contact the CSIR Energy Storage Testbed supervisor:
This year’s 18th annual Smart Procurement World Indaba, which takes place in Gauteng from 9 to 12 September 2024, is one of the most important ever, according to the organisers. It comes hot on the heels of the signing into law of the Public Procurement Bill by President Cyril Ramaphosa. Around 600 procurement professionals are expected to attend the event to learn, network and explore issues that include this long-awaited legislation.
Still to be gazetted and come into force, the Act is currently the subject of intense debate, with procurement professionals and legal experts questioning whether it represents a groundbreaking step forward for public procurement and an end to state capture or a looming catastrophe and more corruption. The constitutionality of the Public Procurement Act is currently the subject of a challenge by the City of Cape Town.
Professor Geo Quinot, founding director of the African Procurement Law Unit and Professor of Law at Stellenbosch University, contends that the promulgation of the Public Procurement Act is “a momentous occasion in South African procurement law, despite the fact that there are still a number of outstanding questions that must be resolved, and a lot of work still to be done before the act can be fully implemented, not the least of which is the creation of extensive regulations to give content to the system”.
Professor Geo Quinot
“Our unit has facilitated extensive and intense debate on the draft Bill and then on the Bill and now the Act at a series of national workshops since February last year, so we’ve been very active in our critical engagement with the important law reform,” he says.
Quinot is one of the esteemed speakers on the programme for this year’s Smart Procurement World Indaba and in his not to be missed session, he will share his insights and discuss the impact of the Public Procurement Act. Quinot will explore how procurement can adapt to changes in the supply chain management environment and the new legislation’s effects on public sector operations. He will also explain how public procurement institutions should prepare to implement this new legislative framework.
The Smart Procurement World Indaba is South Africa’s largest, longest-standing event for procurement and inbound supply chain professionals. Its theme this year is “The DNA of Procurement”. Smart Procurement chief operating officer Debbie Tagg elaborates: “Attendees can expect to uncover the intricacies that define procurement’s genetic makeup at the 2024 indaba. The event will explore the interconnected strands that shape every procurement decision, transaction and relationship. Just as the DNA carries the genetic information that shapes living organisms, the DNA of procurement intricately weaves through every aspect of the supply chain, determining its structure, resilience and ultimate success.”
The Sustainability Summit Africa is an important co-located event at this year’s indaba. It takes place on 10 September 2024. “With an increasingly intense worldwide focus on sustainable procurement, we recognise the importance of having this crucial topic up front and centre at our industry’s premier gathering,” Tagg states.
The summit features local and international experts who will address the critical role played by supply chain and procurement professionals not just in achieving environmental goals, but also in ensuring the longevity of small businesses and the economic stability of organisations, communities and regions. Sustainable procurement examines how procurement affects the environment, society and the economy. An exciting new feature at this year’s fourth Sustainability Summit Africa is “The Green Zone”, which features a range of solutions across alternative energy sources, eco-friendly products and waste reduction strategies. “It will provide attendees with valuable insights into the latest sustainable practices. Solutions providers will have the opportunity to showcase their companies’ products and services to a highly targeted audience of purchasing managers who are actively seeking sustainable procurement solutions for their organisations,” Tagg explains.
The annual APMP (Association of Proposal Management Professionals) SA Conference is a guest conference at the 2024 Smart Procurement World Indaba. Taking place on 10 September 2024, APMP SA is Africa’s largest in-person education and networking event for bid, proposal, tender, capture, business development and graphics professionals.
This year’s Smart Procurement World Indaba event partners are Ecovadis, Market dojo, Solu Growth PSA, Spend HQ, Zycus and Heineken.
Visit the event website – https://smartprocurementworld.com/indaba/ – for more information or to register to attend the 2024 Smart Procurement World Indaba. To find out more about sponsorship and partnership opportunities, contact Keshni Reddy on keshni@smartprocurement.net
For more than fifty years, Air Products, a leading manufacturer of industrial gas, has maintained an excellent safety record, thanks to the safety culture that the company has cemented into its DNA over the years.
At Air Products safety has become part of the company’s culture, and this has been achieved by the constant focus on the company’s operational excellence, sharing of best practice by Air Products globally, coupled with the commitment from Air Products’ management and employees. The company is also at the forefront of collaborating with other key players to maintain high safety standards in the industrial gas market.
General Manager – Technical, Gift Nyambe
Safety at Air Products falls within Gift Nyambe, the General Manager of the Technical area’s portfolio. With an excellent track record in the industrial gas industry, Nyambe states: “In my experience, there is unequivocally one golden rule – Operational excellence (OpEx) is the ultimate goal that supports the company’s vision of achieving Operational Health and Safety with zero harm. At Air Products, we embrace our safety philosophy that Nothing is more important than safety… not production, not sales, not profits.”
Progressing towards operational excellence Nyambe further elaborates on this statement by explaining that there are three elements that support the progress towards the achievement of operational excellence.
The first element is Operational Discipline which plays a vital role in forming the foundation of achieving operational excellence. This discipline is achieved by ensuring that the correct procedures and work instructions are available, and more importantly, are followed by employees, contractors and customers at all times.
The second element is Occupational Health and Safety, and this plays a role in working towards operational excellence as it focuses on ensuring that no harm is done to people and environment as the result of a human error, unsafe acts and behaviors.
The third element is that of Process Safety, by ensuring our processes are safe and ensuring the adequate layers of protection are in place to protect our assets. Over the years Air Products has ensured that the process of producing and supplying products is not harmful to people or the environment. This has largely been achieved by placing emphasis on creating equipment that works efficiently and fit for purpose.
I always appeal to Air Products employees: Let’s all make safety more than a habit, let’s make it a conscious decision!
OpEx, according to Nyambe, can be achieved when the three elements are harmoniously integrated and embedded in the day-to-day activities within our operations. He further explains that Process Safety Management (PSM) is a valuable tool for strengthening our management system. The system establishes procedures, standards and most importantly, methods that can be used to address human factors that could potentially lead to human error. It ensures that risks are appropriately managed, hazards are identified and the correct safeguards are in place to prevent harm to people and the environment and to protect assets.
The value of establishing effective safety management and operational safety programmes
Nyambe explains that organizations with effective safety management programmes are generally more successful and sustainable as a result of the meticulous focus that is placed on the factors that contribute towards OpEx. He does however state that the reverse is also true too, as businesses where production systems are not managed well, there is a tendency that they are likely to experience more incidents.
These incidents often lead to injuries and, and in even more severe cases, fatalities.
Occupational Safety and Process Safety support each other in the sense that the one improves the other and leads to continuous improvement of the company’s management systems. Ultimately, when the two work together, operational excellence is achieved.
“Safety management and process safety can be defined as the integration of people, processes, and technology to solve problems, improve collaboration, and empower teams. This results in the continuous improvement of management systems to enhance customer satisfaction, increase employee productivity, and improve brand reputation, leading to accelerated growth”, says Nyambe.
Safety management principles are aimed at workplace safety, however, since they impact workplace assets and processes, they also contribute to the improvement of operational efficiency, which essentially leads to excellence. In instances where businesses strive for operational excellence, they are perceived and experienced as better and safer places to work. As part of the process of making a business safer, there is inevitably a likelihood that they will also become more productive and achieve greater growth.
OpEx is about uncovering various ways to improve and to be the best in class within a specific industry. This is achieved by creating and actively promoting a safe workplace that does not harm people, which includes employees, contractors, and customers alike, as well as the environment through our processes and activities as a business.
Nyambe elaborates on the value of promoting a culture of visible leadership that can never be overemphasized: “Safety is everyone’s business and can only be achieved through visible leadership. Operational Safety Excellence can only be achieved when each and every person is truly engaged in the process of preventing incidents. By taking care of the first steps, great results can be achieved.”
Nyambe concludes that true health and safety is about people and determining various processes to keep them healthy and safe. “I always appeal to Air Products employees: Let’s all make safety more than a habit, let’s make it a conscious decision!”
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
Cookie
Duration
Description
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional
11 months
The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy
11 months
The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Located within the Pretoria Campus in South Africa, the facility is easily accessible to local and international clients. The testbed’s services are designed to be user-friendly and flexible, accommodating various client needs and schedules.
