INDUSTRY NEWS
NAACAM AND TASEZ
PARTNER TO DRIVE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY GROWTH AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT
The Tshwane Automotive SEZ and NAACAM partnered to boost the automotive sector by promoting skills development and local supplier growth, especially for SMEs.
The MOA signing signifies a shared commitment to developing local skills, supporting black-owned businesses, and driving innovation in the automotive industry, according to TASEZ CEO Dr Bheka Zulu. The partnership will provide small businesses and emerging suppliers with access to new markets and large manufacturers, creating a sustainable and beneficial ecosystem for the broader South African economy.
This three-year agreement formalizes the collaboration between TASEZ and NAACAM and represents a significant step toward advancing South Africa’ s automotive sector.
The TASEZ-NAACAM partnership is focused on several strategic areas to drive growth and increase competitiveness within the automotive industry. These areas include skills development and training, with programs for artisan development, reintegration of retrenched workers, and alignment of TVET college curricula with industry needs.
The partnership also aims to empower black-owned suppliers by providing access to Tier 1 manufacturers, and supporting business incubation and coaching. Additionally, it will drive research to improve local raw material sources and explore innovations across various sectors, including rail, maritime, and aviation.
Furthermore, the partnership will assist automotive component manufacturers in accessing international markets and boost South Africa’ s global trade footprint. It will also support small businesses and foster entrepreneurship in township communities through handson training and mentoring.
Finally, the TASEZ-NAACAM partnership will collaborate on automotive events and programs aimed at advancing technical knowledge in vehicle design and innovation.
The agreement signifies a comprehensive strategy to propel the automotive sector forward by harmonizing industry requirements with government-backed programs, emphasized NAACAM CEO Renai Moothilal. He underscored the critical role of SETAs and international alliances in fostering enduring skills development, and the agreement mirrors this holistic approach to industry advancement.
“ The partnership represents a transformative opportunity for the South African automotive sector, creating a stronger, more inclusive industry while promoting economic resilience and global competitiveness.”
The Memorandum of Agreement( MOA) will remain in effect for three years and can be renewed and expanded based on mutual agreement. Both organizations are committed to maintaining a collaborative, professional, and continuously improving relationship. www. abrbuzz. co. za 11 MARCH 2025