East London IDZ CEO Thembela Zweni, and Automotive Industry Development Centre’s (AIDC) CEO Andile Africa, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in East London last weel.Photo: Supplied
The East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) aimed at bolstering industrial growth, and enhancing the sustainability and competitiveness of the local manufacturing sector.
The strategic partnership was signed at the ELIDZ on Wednesday last week. The AIDC is a subsidiary of the Gauteng Growth Development Agency (GGDA), an entity owned by Gauteng’s provincial Department of Economic Development. It is considered one of the country’s leading agencies in support of the automotive industry.
The aim of the MoU includes establishing a collaborative relationship that will see small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in the automotive sector receiving support.
This partnership is set to provide and co-package SMME incubation support, which is vital for establishing sustainable industrialists and automotive suppliers in the Eastern Cape.
The agreement is set to enhance business operations through interventions, including business process re-engineering, supply chain and logistics management, operational efficiency improvements, productivity enhancement, pricing strategies, and capital expenditure planning.
These measures are aimed at boosting the province’s economic growth. ELIDZ Chief Executive Officer, Thembela Zweni, was optimistic about the partnership, adding that it will help strengthen and develop the industrial zone’s base.
“This MoU marks a significant step towards strengthening our industrial base, prompting sustainability and economic growth in the region. We are confident that our collaboration with AIDC will bring about meaningful change and opportunities for local businesses and communities,” said Zweni.
Zweni’s counterpart and AIDC CEO, Andile Africa, expressed excitement for the opportunity of working with the ELIDZ.
“We are excited to join forces with the ELIDZ in this strategic endeavour.
Together, we will work towards a brighter future for the automotive and manufacturing sectors in the country, driving innovation and fostering transformation in the sector,” said Africa.
The establishment of an automotive learning centre at the ELIDZ is also on the cards, in collaboration with the Mercedes-Benz Learning Academy.
Mandlenkosi Mxengi
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