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  • SLG – Compliance: The key to project completion

    In order to bring change into business, capital investment projects are continuously being sort. This allows for the expansion of business, either to develop a new product that may be sold; or in fact improve manufacturing processes to reduce operational expenditure. Mankind has been involved in projects since the construction of the great pyramids. These complex projects were managed without any of the sophisticated technology available today. However, in modern society, the nature of projects and the environments in which they exist have changed significantly. Many modern projects involve challenges in terms of technical complexity, cost constraints, resource constraints, environmental uncertainty, and demanding time schedules in order to ensure maximised production. Currently, organisations around the world face high project implementation failure rates, resulting in millions being wasted. Despite the availability of project management tools, techniques and technology, mega-projects are still running overdue and over budget. Projects in the oil and gas industry are at the forefront to building economies and hence organisations need to ensure due diligence in all aspects. It is a common misconception in the gas industry that imported gas equipment will automatically be suitable for use in the South African gas market. This is especially true when the importer foresees ‘potential savings’. Currently there is a gap that needs to be addressed by the local gas association which will ensure that international companies understand minimum South African compliance requirements. The user and importer of gas equipment should equip themselves with the relevant standards, regulations and regulatory body requirements before import considerations. These include: · South African National Standards (SANS) 329 which addresses the requirements for industrial thermoprocessing equipment. · Pressure Equipment Regulations (PER) which is part of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. · The Safe Gas Equipment Scheme (SGES) which governs all imported natural gas equipment. This scheme was established by the South African Gas Association (SAGA) to ensure that all equipment meets acceptable standards. As recently as 2019, there have been various cases of customers who have had to incur additional costs in excess of 12% of their total procurement costs due to rework of the imported gas systems that did not comply with local requirements. The project delays due to rework also contribute to the missed opportunity of not commissioning the plant timeously. In a recent case study, the following was discovered: · Customer imported equipment from China · Gas trains and pipeline were designed according to Chinese standards · Burners did not have name plates nor technical data · No mechanical flow diagrams · No data packs available · This resulted in: · Failure of the Authorised Gas Practitioner to issue a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) · Discarding of 70% of the procured equipment · Over expenditure of approximately half a million rand as a result of rework The consequences of noncompliance, apart from criminal charges for not adhering to the law, often include delays in commissioning, negative reputational impact, loss of potential opportunities and increased expenditure emanating from rework. This costly exercise could have been prevented had the respective advisors been consulted prior to embarking on such a significant project investment. SLG’s customer value proposition goes beyond gas supply: technical feasibility studies, regulatory licenses, installations, commissioning and postinstallation technical and safety training are facilitated by SLG as value added services. Website: www.slgas.co.za

  • Umhlanga development open for business

    Four years since announcing the revolutionary concept of Umhlanga Arch, this development has redefined city living, introduced a dynamic lifestyle to South Africa and transformed KZN’s landscape. Since the breaking of ground in October 2017, locals and visitors alike have watched this catalytic development rise from the ground up with much-anticipation. The joint venture between The Multiply Group and Devmco Group recently marked the official opening of the first phase of Umhlanga Arch. This opening will welcome residents and visitors into the smart-ready apartments. The Legacy Yard and Backyard will also be a hive of activity as the food hall serves up exquisite cuisines and flavours from around the world. The European-inspired high street will have a number of bespoke, local retailers open shop, namely proudly South African fashion and jewellery stores Amanda Ferri, Mark Gold, Holiday Harbour, Breazies and The Gentry; as well as beauty and wellness specialists Hello Hunny, Skin Renewal and the Moustache Barbershop. “This is the moment we have all been waiting for and we can’t wait to welcome homeowners and the public to what has become one of South Africa’s most iconic developments to enter the property market. Umhlanga Arch was initially an idea roughly drawn on a napkin, to think that this idea inspired the development of a world-standing and game-changing property that has challenged conventional architectural trends and ultimately raised the benchmark,” shares Mark Rosenberg, Umhlanga Arch visionary and executive partner of Multiply Group. “Umhlanga Arch has been a success right from the very start, claiming AAA-grade status, introducing South Africa’s first flagship Hilton Garden Inn, pioneering smart technology, introducing an awe-inspiring European-inspired high street, and was even named the best marketed development in Africa in 2017. We know that this trend of success will progress into the operation of this definitive development,” shares Rosenberg. Within the first two months of development, Umhlanga Arch had curated 400 permanent jobs, thereafter the numbers peaked at 1300 individuals working on the site everyday throughout most of 2018, 2019 and into 2020 up until COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020. Work resumed in June 2020 with 1100 workers onsite daily. “Our goal was not only to introduce a revolutionary development but to change the lives of the community. Throughout the project development The Multiply Group and Devmco Group have actively engaged with city leaders, businesses, and communities, to ensure that local and foreign investors realise the vast potential that KwaZulu-Natal has to offer. This R1,3 billion development has far-reaching effects in bolstering tourism, stimulating investment into the region, further elevating Umhlanga and greater Durban to a world-class standing, and has already facilitated significant job creation to date,” says Rosenberg. The structure of Umhlanga Arch has been curated and carefully considered, now it’s time to bring this development to life as Umhlanga Arch welcomes homeowners, visitors and locals, bespoke and proudly South African retail tenants and restaurants. Furthermore, MEC of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Nomusa Dube-Ncube shares, “I congratulate the developers of Umhlanga Arch for showing a vote of confidence in KZN. This is a new trendy R1.3 billion development near the Gateway super-regional mall in KwaZulu-Natal." "It is very exciting that today, 06 October 2020 is the official opening of restaurants in the food court. Our entities, KZN Tourism Authority and Trade Investment KZN have ensured that we collaborate with investors, key stakeholders such as the trade, major tour operators, airlines and hotels to promote packaged deals to encourage travel into the province.”

  • A historical legacy will refresh tourism

    Enterprise iLembe has launched a wine cellar at Ballito on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast to celebrate historical legacy whilst drawing tourists to the region. Warm beaches along KZN North Coast; scenery resembling God’s own canvas; game parks and nature reserves; historical sites that shaped the nation; rustic and five-star accommodation facilities, traditional and fine dining venues will be joined by the latest attraction – the Seventeen87 Wine Cellar. The Seventeen87 wine cellar at the Sugar Rush Park in Ballito was established to offer locals and visitors an experiential tourism offering: a combination of ‘history and wine’. The brand Seventeen87 pays homage to the King of the Zulu Nation, King Shaka who was born in 1787. Enterprise iLembe CEO Nathi Nkomzwayo told guests at a ribbon-cutting ceremony that tourism along iLembe North Coast has sprung back to life with great gusto following the lull caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The event was also attended by the Mayor of KwaDukuza Local Municipality, Cllr Dolly Govender, and Deputy Mayor of iLembe District Municipality, Cllr Dolly Shandu. “Potential travellers are urged to get a better understanding of the fun, affordable and exciting attractions on their own doorstep - take a sho’t left down the coast to the North Coast, which extends from Zimbali in the south to Amatikulu in the north, extending inland to Maphumulo and Ndwedwe. With strict hygiene protocols in place, the KZN North Coast anticipates a bumper summer holiday season with a fun-filled programme of activities that will entice holidaymakers to descend in numbers to their favourite destinations, many of which have discounted deals on accommodation packages.” Enterprise iLembe is the Economic Development Agency of the iLembe District Municipality. It is responsible for promoting trade and investment and driving economic development in the region. The idea of the iLembe Vineyards & Winery Project was conceptualised by Enterprise iLembe with funding assistance from the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs. Nevin Davidson from Sugar Rush Park said that they were excited about the partnership with Enterprise iLembe on the launch of the Seventeen87 Wine Cellar. “The wine cellar adds another unique tourism experience to the many product offerings already on offer at the Park” said Davidson. The wine cellar is a small and intimate setting, where one can sample and purchase local wines from the Seventeen87 brand as well as other partner brands such as Cathedral Peak. The Cellar can also be hired for private functions. Chairperson of the Board Khanyisani Shandu said, “Enterprise iLembe was established as a special purpose vehicle, with the aim of playing a vital and catalytic role in driving local economic development and growth in the iLembe District. “The Seventeen87 wine cellar is a new addition to the many tourism offerings on the North Coast set in the beautiful location of Sugar Rush Park. “We look forward to the continued support of all our partners and stakeholders in making this project a success”. The iLembe North Coast is extremely blessed as a tourist destination, with a glorious coastline fringed by golden beaches, a green amazing hinterland that is steeped in tradition coupled with the unique cultural mix that provides fascinating insights into the history of this part of the country and province. Renowned golf courses, adventure activities, food and cuisine and world class accommodation are synonymous with this destination. W: www.sugarrush.co.za

  • eThekwini Municipality is partnering with SmartXchange in a ground-breaking move

    In pursuit of the goal of becoming a smarter city, the eThekwini Municipality is partnering with SmartXchange in a ground-breaking move to get local businesses ready to utilise new, technological ways of doing business, by registering in a Ward Based Township Digital Business Directory called SiyaDigiTiZa. This pilot technological advancement will profile the products and services that businesses offer and allow customers to purchase products online and have them delivered using an App. The first targeted pilot areas are within the PINK area of Durban which is Phoenix, Inanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu. The SiyaDigiTiZa roadshows will be held in these areas from 26 to 29 October. Mayor of eThekwini, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda said: “The SiyaDigiTiZa project talks to eThekwini’s economic recovery plan which one of its holistic objectives is to support enterprises. This township digital business directory registration roadshows aims to profile local business products and services. This project will also offer enterprises an exciting marketing opportunity to enable customers to purchase products online and have them delivered using an app.” Kaunda said everything is moving digitally hence this move to ensure township business are competitive and enhance their online presence, get discovered easily, improve local visibility as well as create brand awareness. The first roadshow will be held at the KwaMashu Community Hall in L Section on 26 October followed by the F Community Hall in Ntuzuma on 27 October and in Inanda at the Bester Community Hall on 28 October. The final event will be in Phoenix at the Redfern Community Hall on 29 October. The registration for all venues is from 9am to 4pm. For more details on the programme, contact Ayanda Ciliza on 031 322 1837 or email: ayanda.ciliza@durban.gov.za

  • Woodford Car Hire- Bang Bang Flash Sale! 3 Days Only

    Book between now and Wednesday and get discounted rates on ALL vehicles. Book now at DISCOUNTED RATES , whilst stocks last. BOOK NOW

  • LAST DAY TO SIGN UP

    ENTRIES FOR SUNDAYS TINMAN EVENT CLOSE TONIGHT B-Active Events are super excited to stage the 1st Triathlon in SA post lockdown and things are hotting up for the weekend. The Weather looks perfect with 22deg temp, little wind and cloud cover. The sea is predicted to be flat and the racing HOT !  TEMP TSA Licences: Temporary TSA Day Licences for Triathlons are now allowed for Triathletes, so anyone can enter. You can purchase a Temp day licence when you enter. The Swimming section for the Triathlon events will take place at Battery Beach next door, as the bathing is not open at Suncoast Beach. So Athletes will swim at Battery Beach and run across the beach, 200m to the Transition area at the Sundeck. Athletes will register at the Suncoast Sundeck and once racked, walk along the beach to the start flags infront of Pirates SLC for their swim briefing. There will be norace briefing prior to this.  After a meeting with the Municipality, Metro Traffic Police and Construction contractors, the middle lane of the Cycle Circuit will be used for the entire cycle route. Access points will be made available for cyclists to get onto and off MY Ave as well as tarring on the corner into Battery Beach road. This will make the road and access suitable and useable for the event.  NEW TIMES: Registration & Bike Racking (Same time) @ Entrance to the transition area. (SUNDAY ONLY) 10km Run : 6am to 6:40am Mini: 6am to 6:40am  Sprint: 6:40am to 7:15am  Challenge: 7:15am to 7:50am  NEW Start times: 10km Run : 6:45 Start Mini: 6:55am (6:55am) - All Sprint: 7:30am (7:30am, 7:32am. 7:34am) – 2 min gaps Challenge: 7:54am (7:54am, 7:56am, 7:58am; 8am) – 2min gaps Start times and batches are due to Covid-19 regulations. It is VERY important to start in your allocated batch, as you risk being disqualified.  Get yourself entered, grab some mates and challenge each other to the fun, fast family orientated event. See you Sunday!   The B-Active Events Team.  Registration link ENTRIES CLOSE @ midnight today

  • Controversial Expropriation Bill revised – what can we expect? – Marikah Calo, Cox Yeats

    The controversial Expropriation Bill has been extensively opposed since its introduction in 2015. In consequence, it has been subject to various amendments culminating in the Expropriation Bill, 2020 (the Bill ). The Bill has received the Chief Legal Advisor’s stamp of approval from a Constitutional perspective and was published in the Government Gazette on 9 October 2020. It will now be subject to Parliament’s process of consideration, debate and public consultation before it may be enacted into law by the President. ‘Nil’ compensation for expropriation The most controversial feature in the Bill is that it entitles the State to expropriate property without compensating the owner. Initially, Parliament reasoned that in order to allow for expropriation without compensation, section 25 of the Constitution should be amended to explicitly allow for this. However, as this proposed amendment is yet to be finalised, the Bill is drafted in accordance with the section as it currently stands. Section 25 stipulates that compensation for expropriation must be just and equitable having regard to all relevant circumstances. Accordingly, if property is expropriated by the State for ‘nil’ compensation it must be just and equitable to do so in the circumstances. The circumstances are dealt with in clause 12(3) of the Bill: · Where private land is abandoned or used merely as a market investment, and not for development and income generation; · If it is state land and not being used by a state entity in line with its core mandate; · Where the market value of the land is equal to or less than the present value of direct state investment or subsidy in the acquisition and improvement of the land; and · When the nature or condition of the property poses a health, safety or physical risk to persons or other property. The introduction of clause 12(3) in the Bill is in line with Parliament’s objective to provide clarity and certainty on the land rights of South African citizens. However, the listed circumstances, and the fact that the list is infinite, does little to quell the anxieties of investors and property owners in South Africa. Some relief can be found in the fact that our Courts can be called upon to determine whether the price of the compensation for the expropriation is just and equitable if the expropriating authority and expropriated owner cannot agree upon the price for compensation. Definition of property A further red flag is in the Bill’s failure to provide a comprehensive definition of what property may be expropriated. As it stands, the definition expressly states that it is not only limited to land. Precisely what property may be expropriated is left to a wide interpretation and may include intellectual property and movable property. To contextualise this, on the face of it the State would be entitled to expropriate farm land, along with all the livestock, equipment, vehicles and intellectual property required for its operations. In light of the rising tensions with respect to land restitution in South Africa, the need for coherent expropriation legislation is becoming increasingly more vital. However, the far-reaching implications of the Bill dictate that it must be carefully scrutinised before being enacted into law. Whether the Bill will withstand this scrutiny, by both Parliament and the public, is still to be seen. MARIKAH CALO is an Associate at Cox Yeats, specialising in Corporate and Construction Law. She can be contacted on : Tel: 031 – 536 8500 or Email: mcalo@coxyeats.co.za . Cox Yeats is a specialist boutique law firm with a wealth of experience and expertise balanced with dynamic and innovative solution. Specialists in: Commercial, Natural Resources, Construction, Property, Information & Communication Technology, Maritime, Insurance, Labour, Business Restructuring, Business Rescue and Insolvency Law. www.coxyeats.co.za ISSUED BY: Cheryl Kirsten on behalf of Cox Yeats Attorneys CK Dynamics Marketing & Media Communications #coxyeats #KZNbusinesssense

  • Controversial Expropriation Bill revised – what can we expect? – Marikah Calo, Cox Yeats

    The controversial Expropriation Bill has been extensively opposed since its introduction in 2015. In consequence, it has been subject to various amendments culminating in the Expropriation Bill, 2020 (the Bill ). The Bill has received the Chief Legal Advisor’s stamp of approval from a Constitutional perspective and was published in the Government Gazette on 9 October 2020. It will now be subject to Parliament’s process of consideration, debate and public consultation before it may be enacted into law by the President. ‘Nil’ compensation for expropriation The most controversial feature in the Bill is that it entitles the State to expropriate property without compensating the owner. Initially, Parliament reasoned that in order to allow for expropriation without compensation, section 25 of the Constitution should be amended to explicitly allow for this. However, as this proposed amendment is yet to be finalised, the Bill is drafted in accordance with the section as it currently stands. Section 25 stipulates that compensation for expropriation must be just and equitable having regard to all relevant circumstances. Accordingly, if property is expropriated by the State for ‘nil’ compensation it must be just and equitable to do so in the circumstances. The circumstances are dealt with in clause 12(3) of the Bill: · Where private land is abandoned or used merely as a market investment, and not for development and income generation; · If it is state land and not being used by a state entity in line with its core mandate; · Where the market value of the land is equal to or less than the present value of direct state investment or subsidy in the acquisition and improvement of the land; and · When the nature or condition of the property poses a health, safety or physical risk to persons or other property. The introduction of clause 12(3) in the Bill is in line with Parliament’s objective to provide clarity and certainty on the land rights of South African citizens. However, the listed circumstances, and the fact that the list is infinite, does little to quell the anxieties of investors and property owners in South Africa. Some relief can be found in the fact that our Courts can be called upon to determine whether the price of the compensation for the expropriation is just and equitable if the expropriating authority and expropriated owner cannot agree upon the price for compensation. Definition of property A further red flag is in the Bill’s failure to provide a comprehensive definition of what property may be expropriated. As it stands, the definition expressly states that it is not only limited to land. Precisely what property may be expropriated is left to a wide interpretation and may include intellectual property and movable property. To contextualise this, on the face of it the State would be entitled to expropriate farm land, along with all the livestock, equipment, vehicles and intellectual property required for its operations. In light of the rising tensions with respect to land restitution in South Africa, the need for coherent expropriation legislation is becoming increasingly more vital. However, the far-reaching implications of the Bill dictate that it must be carefully scrutinised before being enacted into law. Whether the Bill will withstand this scrutiny, by both Parliament and the public, is still to be seen. MARIKAH CALO is an Associate at Cox Yeats, specialising in Corporate and Construction Law. She can be contacted on : Tel: 031 – 536 8500 or Email: mcalo@coxyeats.co.za . Cox Yeats is a specialist boutique law firm with a wealth of experience and expertise balanced with dynamic and innovative solution. Specialists in: Commercial, Natural Resources, Construction, Property, Information & Communication Technology, Maritime, Insurance, Labour, Business Restructuring, Business Rescue and Insolvency Law. www.coxyeats.co.za ISSUED BY: Cheryl Kirsten on behalf of Cox Yeats Attorneys CK Dynamics Marketing & Media Communications

  • Leadership - what's working and what's not working

    Today we did the dry run for the webinar that we will be running on Thursday 15 October at 10 am. I would really recommend that you join the session. It's a natural add on to the KZN Leaders Portfolio that we have put together over the last couple of years. However, the webinar takes the Portfolio to a totally different level. In conversation with some our province’s business leaders, we will be analyzing and identifying the initiatives that have worked in responding to Covid-19 in the workplace. Part of what will be covered is the importance of the leader’s role in the present situation as well as and learning from the past in planning for future. You will get an opportunity to listen to what's working and what's not working and to ask questions. In addition, this is the first of a series of leaders’ webinars wherein different topics will be covered. If you would like to participate as a panellist in the future, please let me know. Click on this link to register Thanks a million and I will see you online. Grant Grant Adlam grant@kznleaders.co.za www.kznleaders.co.za

  • Businesses Need To Tell Good Stories

    KZN LEADERS PORTFOLIO is a natural progression from the KZN Top Business Portfolio, which in 2020 is now in its 21th year of publication. In analysing the successful companies profiled in the KZN Top Business Portfolio, there was a common thread running through each of their achievements and that was effective leadership. The KZN Leaders Portfolio was then initiated with the desire to get to know more about these leaders of business. The overall vision is to network successful people with successful people and ultimately encouraging other people to become successful through their stories. Learning about some of the various factors that have motivated these men and women, and driven their careers, has been a very rewarding undertaking.  Each leader has in-depth experience in their particular field of expertise as well as much insight into business management and leadership. We have enjoyed hearing of their successes as well as their abilities to overcome challenges and strive for innovative approaches to doing business. Of significance is that a common thread in their business journeys is the desire to make a difference in the lives of the people their companies impact, very often by going far above the norm. The growing collection of business leaders’ stories prompted the creation of a website www.kznleaders.co.za. We look forward to adding more business stories to our collection. As we always say, “success breeds success”.

  • Leadership is not management, it is something quite different.

    Morar Incorporated and the Top Business team have identified seven KZN leaders who have significantly improved productivity and sustainability of the organisations that they represent. Leadership is being cited across the globe as that single component essential for business success and sustainability. Leadership is not management, it is something quite different, and is a learned skill that each of us can understand and apply in our daily routines. Leadership ensures our defined outcomes are achieved, and that our organisations meet business imperatives and stakeholder expectations. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear each of these leaders share their stories on the “Business Leadership Shaping the Future” webinar at 10 am on 15 October 2020. I will be facilitating this event, and I look forward to welcoming everybody and encouraging our speaker panel to passionately share their experience gained in their individual leadership roles. Roshan Morar, Grant Adlam and I look forward to hosting you at this event. Please book your seat by requesting a link to the webinar from this introduction. Kind regards David David White David@drg.co.za www.drg.co.za http://www.kznleaders.co.za/Authentic-Leadership/

  • REGENT Business School - Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Job Creation

    The Enterprise Development Hub (redHUB) at REGENT BUSINESS SCHOOL hosted an informative webinar on 07 October 2020 at 11h00. The webinar focused on innovation and entrepreneurship and showcased a job creation entrepreneurial venture. The webinar was facilitated by Tasneem Mahomed and the panel consisted of Waseem Carrim (CEO of the NYDA), Wayne Barr (Director of Spudz Funky Fries) and Andrew Ngidi (Chairperson of SANTACO KZN Youth League and a Director of Spudz Funky Fries). The entrepreneurial and job creation venture showcased was Spudz Funky Fries which is an epitome of entrepreneurial innovation. Spudz Funky Fries is a youth employment initiative that is set to be rolled out nationally. Skillfully moderated by Tasneem Mahomed, together with Waseem Carrim, the webinar drew parallels between innovation and entrepreneurship. The importance of youth development and the available support stirred up much interest. These are positive contributions to recalibrate, reboot, and rebuild the economy. The demonstration by Spudz Funky Fries prototype showcased the simplicity and ease at which youth job creation can be accomplished. Andrew Ngidi described the mode of operation of the venture and the success it could achieve in a very short time. Details about the genesis of the job creation venture and the plans going forward relating to the rollout drew praise from the facilitator and positive reaction from participants.

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