Reflections on a Milestone year: A Look Back at 2024 and Beyond
As we wrap up the final edition of Stainless Steel Magazine for 2024, it’s clear that this has been an extraordinary year for Sassda, the stainless steel industry, and South Africa as a whole. This is especially so for Sassda given that 2024 marked not only a year of significant activity but also the celebration of our 60th Anniversary and the triumphant return of the Stainless Steel Awards.
Against this backdrop, our usual initiatives were elevated to new heights this year. Record attendance at Sassda’s educational and training events demonstrated the growing demand for knowledge and skills in the stainless steel sector. It is clear that as the world evolves, so do we, continuously enhancing our training programmes to address the challenges of the modern age.
Innovation and lobbying at the forefront
In terms of its technical prowess, Sassda has been at the forefront of driving awareness and understanding of laser welding technology via technical papers and the hosting of a well-attended laser welding industry workshop in October 2024. This game-changing advancement is increasingly being adopted by our members, transforming fabrication processes and delivering unmatched efficiency.
In the realm of networking and lobbying, Sassda has made significant strides in promoting the use of stainless steel at the highest levels. We’ve established new, high-level connections with government departments and state-owned enterprises (SOEs), highlighting how stainless steel can offer immense value in addressing critical national priorities. From improving water and food security to reducing life cycle costs for infrastructure development; stainless steel’s potential is vast.
Expanding markets through sustainable solutions
Sassda, alongside its extensive network of industry partners and peer organisations, remains committed to developing new markets. By focusing on localisation and sustainable alternatives, we continue to demonstrate how stainless steel can reduce environmental impact and offer lower life cycle costs compared to traditional materials like carbon steel - and, in some cases, even wood.
Balancing hard work with camaraderie, Sassda also partnered with the Southern African Institute of Welding (SAIW) to host four highly successful regional golf days. These events not only fostered connections across the industry but also provided a welcome opportunity to recharge and celebrate our shared achievements.
Data driven
I’m also proud to say, that a data-driven approach underpins much of what we do. Monthly statistics on local stainless steel consumption in 2024 reveal a promising upward trend, signalling potential growth for certain sectors. This progress can be attributed to several factors, including increased political stability following local elections, uninterrupted electricity supply, declining inflation and interest rates, and global improvements, such as South Africa’s progress in exiting the grey list for international investment.
Although growth in 2024 is emerging from a low base after the challenges of 2023, there is a tangible sense of optimism. The outlook for the stainless steel industry appears brighter than ever, with positive momentum carrying us into the future.
Valuable collaboration
It’s also clear that engagement with industry platforms and associations has never been more critical. Sassda has witnessed a surge in membership interest, reflecting the value of collaboration within the broader steel industry. As a representative of a specialised segment of the sector, we strive to provide our members with maximum value.
By connecting them with the larger manufacturing ecosystem, we offer insights into synergies and opportunities that extend beyond the stainless steel segment.
Our commitment to knowledge-sharing ensures our members are informed about trends, innovations, and capabilities that can drive their success.
Looking ahead
As we close this chapter on 2024, the Sassda team and I extend our heartfelt gratitude for your steadfast support throughout the year. Together, we’ve navigated challenges, celebrated milestones, and laid the groundwork for a future defined by growth and innovation.
We wish you a peaceful and restful holiday season, and we look forward to welcoming you back in 2025. Let’s continue to champion a material that is, and always will be, Simply Brilliant!
Michel Basson, Sassda Executive Director
