NEWS
Claude Allain, VP and GM, Middle East, Africa and
Europe.
Graham Cruikshanks, managing executive, Green
Building Council SA.
Makatini comments that the President’s comments are an
acknowledgement of the enabling role that technology can
play. “Technology is here to stay, and nothing can stop its
progress. What is key is having the vision as to how it can
enhance the lives of ordinary citizens.”
Among others he also highlights Johnson Controls’ work in
Hawaii, where it has guaranteed a 25-30% saving in utility
costs over the next 25 years. “Our assessment included
airports, highways, and harbours, and we committed to
delivering results. What is important here is that we now
have a customer for life, as this is such a long-term project.”
Makatini plans to bring this thinking to Africa by focusing
on public private partnerships (PPPs) as the best vehicle
to leverage technology in infrastructure delivery. “What I
am pushing for here in South Africa is to move away from
tenders. As a solutions-driven company, we can generate
our own opportunities by listening to, and understanding,
our customers’ requirements. Our team here is committed
January 2020 Volume 25 I Number 11
9
Innovation exhibition.
Panel discussion in progress.
to delivering on that promise. We are also a strongly ethical
company, and always strive to conduct our business in the
best manner possible.”
While Makatini acknowledges the many challenges facing
local municipalities in particular, he is confident that the
PPP approach is ideal in unlocking value. “The problem with
delivery vehicles such as the tender process is that it does
not allow companies to take the initiative. We need a path of
least resistance to get our solutions out there, and to be able
to collaborate with government at all levels,” he stresses.
With its strong focus on design and manufacture,
Makatini reveals that local manufacture is on the cards.
“We ensure that the best technology solutions are
affordable in Africa. We realise that governments are
struggling right now, and that funding is a major issue.
Therefore, instead of waiting for tenders to be issued,
we can bring in external investors so that some of these
critical projects can reach fruition.” PA
Peet Geldenhuys, Smart City
specialist engineer, Africa,
NEXTEC.
www.plumbingafrica.co.za