HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2023 MANUFACTURING INDABA
Unlocking Opportunities and Shaping the Future
Industry leaders, manufacturers, and innovators convened for the 2023 Manufacturing Indaba which Sassda also attended to represent the voice and vision of stainless steel in South Africa. The two-day event consisted of a conference and exhibition and provided a platform for thought-provoking discussions, networking, and the showcase of cutting-edge products and services.
Diverse hubs and enlightening panel discussions
The conference featured hubs dedicated to trade and investment, knowledge sharing, and exhibitions. Panel discussions, a highlight of the event, delved into crucial topics, including the journey from globalisation to ‘glocalisation’, skills development, digitalisation, financing opportunities, and China’s transformation into an advanced manufacturing powerhouse.
The journey from globalisation to ‘glocalisation’
One of the most intriguing discussions focused on the shift from globalisation to ‘glocalisation’. The speakers explored the psychological shift needed to encourage buying local products, emphasising the role of marketing narratives in shaping Africa’s success. Key considerations included creating compelling narratives, the readiness to be self-reliant in production, and the importance of bold and deliberate choices in policy-making.
Skills development and digitalisation
Another pivotal topic addressed the intersection of skills development and digitalisation in the manufacturing sector. The need for continuous skilling and reskilling to adapt to evolving technologies was emphasised. The Highlights from the ageing workforce was a key concern, with discussions centering on creating environments of curiosity, addressing soft skills, and measuring competencies. The importance of a collaborative approach to unlock the potential of the nation’s youth and propel the country forward was underscored.
China’s advanced manufacturing transformation
Insights into China’s advanced manufacturing journey were shared, emphasising the reduction of costs and the simultaneous increase in skills. The role of innovation, research, and eCommerce in China’s manufacturing success was highlighted. The strategic use of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and the emphasis on technology transfer and skills development were noted as crucial factors in China’s manufacturing prowess.
B2B Connect: A gateway to growth
The B2B Connect initiative facilitated face-to-face meetings between delegates and exhibitors, providing a unique opportunity for manufacturers to engage with key stakeholders. These interactions were aimed at fostering collaboration and offering a platform for manufacturers to connect with entities that could contribute to the growth of their businesses.
Financial Solutions for Manufacturing Challenges
The event also shed light on financial solutions available to manufacturers. ABSA, a prominent player, showcased holistic business solutions through its Commercial Bank. Financial support for energy solutions was emphasised, with organisations like ECIC providing funding to address energy-related challenges in the manufacturing sector.
Charting the future of African manufacturing
As the event concluded, a vision for the future of African manufacturing emerged. Leveraging the African Free Trade Agreement was highlighted as essential, with a call for proactive dissemination of information about the agreement to manufacturers. Collaboration on a regional level and alignment of trading blocks were seen as crucial steps in creating a unified front for African manufacturers. In conclusion, the 10th Edition Manufacturing Indaba 2023 proved to be an invaluable platform for fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and showcasing the innovation driving the South African manufacturing sector. As the industry continues to evolve, the lessons learned from this event will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of manufacturing in Africa.