To wrap up Heritage Month 2024, the Coega Development Corporation (Coega), joined by the Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) MMC for Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Councillor Bassie Kamana, hosted an event for local community members at the Coega Business Centre, in Gqeberha. The event themed “Our History, Our Story, Our Heritage”, aimed to celebrate Coega’s profound heritage and history and foster cultural awareness, strengthen community ties, and preserve historical knowledge, says Dr. Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega’s Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications.
Councillor Bassie Kamana emphasised the importance of Heritage Month in commemorating South Africa’s 30 years of democratic freedom. “This month serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of celebrating our rich cultural roots, which have been shaped by our diverse history and experiences. By embracing our heritage, we not only honour our past but also navigate our path ahead. A country without a strong sense of heritage is indeed directionless, lacking the foundation needed to build a cohesive and inclusive society. As we reflect on our journey towards democracy, we must recognise the power of heritage in promoting unity, respect, and inclusivity,” said Kamana.
The highlight of the day was the comprehensive tour of the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for local community members, allowing them to reflect on the area’s industrial transformation over the course of 25 years.
Mr. Simphiwe Silwana, Coega’s Sustainability Manager, highlighting the organisation’s historical roots, said: “Coega’s history is deeply intertwined with South Africa’s, reflecting the nation’s industrial and economic evolution. Today’s event provided a unique opportunity for the community to reflect on their personal experiences and connection to Coega’s growth, while also witnessing the Coega SEZ remarkable transformation.
Our strategic vision seamlessly aligns with the principles of Heritage Month, as we steadfastly embrace diversity as a cornerstone of our continued success. Coega origins and growth reflect the country’s journey towards economic prosperity and industrialisation, which aligns with the idea of celebrating progress,” continued Silwana.
Coega’s Heritage Month celebration showcased the region’s rich history and its ongoing contributions to culture, economy, and society. The event reinforced Coega’s commitment to inclusivity and unity, underscoring its positive influence on the community and its dedication to preserving its heritage.
In attendance at the event, Mrs. Anna Bani (85), expressing appreciation, said: “On behalf of the community, we are more than grateful to Coega for celebrating this month with us. Having relocated from the Coega Special Economic Zone over 20 years ago, it’s truly surreal to witness the incredible transformation that has taken place. Today, as we celebrate Heritage Month together, our hearts swell with pride and appreciation.”
As a leading SEZ in Africa, a region’s beacon of hope, and implementing Agent of Choice, Coega remains committed to celebrating Heritage Month, leveraging 25 years of expertise and socio-economic development experience. This dedication reinforces Coega’s role in driving investment, infrastructure projects, and sustainable socio-economic development in the region, concludes Dr. Vilakazi.
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Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) is a beautiful city located on the coast in the Eastern Cape Province and is known as the “Friendly City”, with other towns in this district including Kariega (Uitenage) and Despatch. Forming part of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, Gqeberha has stunning beaches, historical museums and memorials, award-winning wildlife sanctuaries and super friendly people, making it a spectacular holiday destination.
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Employment in the mining industry grew from just under 449,000 in 2004 to a little above 530,000 in June 2012 (Business Day)