EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS
21
"The theme
of the
conference
was ‘Not all
plastics are
the same’."
Various SAPPMA members were present ready to
create new relationships and learn more about their
fellow attendees’ products and services.
SAPPMA technical manager, Ian Venter, welcomed
guests, thanking sponsors and giving an overview
of what to expect throughout the two days. His
ten-minute presentation touched on what the
association is about. He shared that they are the
flag bearer of the Southern African plastic pipe
market and a growth of 27% has occurred over the
last seven years, despite tough economic conditions.
Before welcoming keynote speaker, economist,
Dr Roelof Botha on stage, Venter spoke about how
Botha speaks often at SAPPMA conferences and
how he always looks forward to hearing what he
has to say.
Speakers
Botha’s presentation was filled with his usual banter
and controversial points. He is optimistic about the
future as he believes that the economy will come
right once the right leaders who will implement
policies take office. He shared that losses in
PetroSA, SAA, irregular municipal expenditure
caused some of the economic woes that cost the
country a combined R35-billion. “These losses
could’ve paid for 640 000 houses and supported
210 000 jobs. The knock-on effect could’ve ended
up as tax revenue,” he says.
SAPPMA CEO, Jan Venter gave a warm welcome to
all present.
According to Botha, the real growth percentage
for the first quarter of 2019 sits at approximately
2.5%. “The prime real rate amount influences GDP
growth. This is why we haven’t seen significant
growth in the past. The Reserve Bank needs to
lower the interest rate even more in order to grow
the economy.”
Following Botha’s presentation, different companies
presented about their products, innovative
enhancements, and projects that have pushed
boundaries, redefining the status quo. Onno Fortuin
from Onno Fortuin Consulting offers practical
solutions on how his company worked around a
challenging environment while installing an outfall
sewer in Vryburg.
Mike Smith from Genesis Consulting updated
attendees on the latest developments of PVC-O
pipe fittings. These pipes are designed to be lighter,
have better impact resistance and increased tensile
strength when compared to standard PVC.
Exhibitors where situated in the opposite room
of the conference centre. Many showcased their
product offerings and looked forward to creating ties
with the local market. PA
Economist, Dr Roelof Botha shared nuggets on how
the local economy can be improved and excel its
potential.
October 2019 Volume 25 I Number 8
www.plumbingafrica.co.za