The African Business Journal Feb 2012 - John Pinching

AfricAn Business
february 2012 Volume 3 Issue 2

www.tabj.co.za
The
Journal
IN THIS ISSUE
Business Small company focus
politics Youssou NDour
company focus National Library of South Africa
cool Too ool: or sk f

s educational The cape ed! ers answer pray
SECTION Title
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eDiTOrs note
Well fOlks, iTs here and in full swing. The year of our Lord, 2012! It looks, visually at least, remarkably similar to 2011. Nevertheless, this year promises to be one of love, joy, ambition, a revitalised economy, entrepreneurship and a certain athletics jamboree. Wow, thats a lot of promise. Continuing the theme of unbridled optimism, this months bountiful edition of TABJ includes some pleasantly uplifting features. Top of the bill is a candid chat with The Western Capes Minister of Education, Donald Grant. He enthuses about the new cutting edge schools which are providing better prospects to thousands of pupils in the region. Weve also got a small business focus, which includes an interview with Humane Homesa small company that has emerged from the turbulence of the financial downturn, while getting noticed for its innovative approach to housing. The section also features the first in a series of columns from Jen Smit, a young entrepreneur
hoping to start her own company. She will take us on every tentative step of her courageous journey through the unpredictable, but endlessly fascinating terrain of new business. As the political climate in parts of Africa reaches volcanic temperatures we also look at the candidacy of singer Youssou NDour, who is hell-bent on becoming the next president of his native Senegal. In addition to the usual honeypot of news, TABJs hive of company profiles will include buzzing companies from the education, healthcare, tourism, retail, property and mining sectors. Having exhausted that analogy, I must fly, Bee cool, John the sting Pinching
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Africa is complex. It is multi-cultural, multi-lingual, geographically vast and steeped in political history. At the same time, the modern business world is increasingly less interested in Africas past and primarily interested in working in a unified, seamless context. KPMGs organisational structure allows us to manage our operations in a way that makes the most sense in terms of the efficiency and effectiveness of our operations. Our business model, common tools and methodologies, as well as shared values allow us to work with our clients seamlessly across borders. kpmg.com
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TABJ Team
John Pinching | Editor | johnp@tabj.co.za Ben Watts | Staff Writer | benwatts@aubj.com.au Laura Hedges | Editorial Assistant | laurah@tabj.co.za Vladimir Lukic | Creative Director | vladimirl@georgemedia.ca Chris Moore | Sr. Advertising Designer | chrism@georgemedia.ca Margaret Oldham | Sr. Graphic Designer | margareto@georgemedia.ca Wincy Law | Sr. Graphic Designer | wincyl@georgemedia.ca Tanya George | Sr. Advertising Designer | tanyag@georgemedia.ca Marc Mauricio | IT/Production Support | marcm@georgemedia.ca Constantin Turtulea | Head of Research | constantint@tabj.co.za Natalie Edney | Head of Sales | nataliee@tabj.co.za Khayyam Darr | Research Director | khayyamd@tabj.co.za Andrew Miskin | Research Director | andrewm@tabj.co.za Hugh Braithwaite | Research Director | hughb@tabj.co.za Dee Nazer | Research Director | deen@tabj.co.za Guy DAngelo | Research Director | guyd@tabj.co.za Thomas Eros | Research Director | thomase@tabj.co.za Michael Alexander-Jones | President | michaelaj@georgemedia.ca Linda Neal | Chief Executive Officer | lindan@georgemedia.ca Naveed Yusuf | Chief Information Officer | naveedy@georgemedia.ca Gemma Parkins | Executive Assistant | gemmap@tabj.co.za Heather MacPherson | General Accountant | heatherm@georgemedia.ca Simon Curran | Vice-President/Publisher | simonc@irjonline.com
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Table of cOnTenTs
february 2012 | VoluMe 3 | ISSue 2
010
Business
cOver feATure The schools of engagement Muse news coming out of africa secreT DiAry Of A sMAll Business ArchiTecTs Of DesTiny yOussOu nDOur a million voices like A BAT OuT Of hell The murky world of match fixing The cAPe crusADer The fine line between professionalism and treachery nATiOnAl liBrAry Of sOuTh AfricA
010 020 032 036 044 052 058 064
sMAll Business
POliTics sPOrTs
eDucATiOn
044
058
Table of cOnTenTs
february 2012 | VoluMe 3 | ISSue 2
MininG
GeOGrOuP Multi-talented machine a job for a MAniTOu BOTsWAnA Ash Salt of the earth PMi GOlD cOrPOrATiOn a high grade multi-project gold producer eDenDAle hOsPiTAl healthy standards nOvO nOrDisk healthcare heroes shAMWAri GrOuP reserve team triumph sPAr GrOuP Shine like a Spar PrOficA Civil service TWin ciTy City slickers
070 078 088 096 108 114 120 128 134 142
heAlThcAre
TOurisM reTAil PrOPerTy
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The schools engagement of

its educational after years of not quite fulfilling ople the high potential or delivering to its pe ns they deserve, standard of academic institutio g to witness estern Cape is finally beginnin W fiantly from the inspirational schools rising de John Pinching ground. TABJs resident scholar reform. opens the jotter of educational
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COVER FEATURE The schools of engagement
In the beginning
In April 2009, the Democratic Alliance received the majority vote to govern the Western Cape Province. The result has provided the party with a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate how it can transform a provincial setting, having already succeeded at the municipal level. The party inherited an education system that was functioning well below optimum levels and, consequently, modernisation has become a top priority. The Grade 12 pass rate had consistently declined over the previous five years and the number of underperforming schools had tripled. Meanwhile, the infrastructure and maintenance of buildings was in a desperate state of disrepair. This was compounded by an all too often uncaring and unresponsive approach to dealing with the legitimate concerns of schools and other players in educational arena.
Key areas include improving literacy, numeracy and nSC outcomes, increasing accountability within the system, expanding the provision of textbooks, building and upgrading safer schools
Path to promise
The net result of these factors was that the interests of students, and learning in general, often came a distant third, behind misplaced racial
FEBRUARY 2012 The African Business Journal
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and ideological considerations, and the narrow labour rights of educators. In 2009, amid much-fanfare, the strategic goals for education were released. The overarching
objective of this plan was to dramatically improve learner outcomes in the province. The party realised there was no quick fix when it comes to improving the quality of education
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provided in the Western Cape, and that only through a sustained, focused and systematic approach that would objectives be fully achieved. The plan focused on ten key priority areas that aim to improve the life chances of people in the province, through the provision of quality education. Key areas in this on-going plan include improving literacy, numeracy and NSC outcomes, increasing accountability within the system, expanding the provision of textbooks, building and upgrading safer schools, enhancing educator training and improving the responsiveness and efficiency of the Western Cape Education Department (WCED). Two years later, and the Western Cape Provincial Government can confidently say that it has made significant progress in establishing the foundation necessary to achieve the objective of improving educational outcomes in the Western Cape. John Pinching chats exclusively to Western Cape Minister of Education, Donald Grant WhAT is yOur OrGAnisATiOns funDAMenTAl eThOs? The Western Cape Governments philosophy supports the vision of an open, opportunity-driven society for all, in which everyone should be afforded the opportunity to realise his or her full potential, through access to a quality education. With every step taken towards fulfilling this vision, we are creating the Western Cape of our dreams, where every child will be literate, numerate and able to compete in an increasingly competitive regional, national and international economic environment.
In the Western Cape of our dreams, every child will be literate, numerate and able to compete in an increasingly competitive regional, national and international economic environment
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Every child is afforded the opportunity to attend school and receive a basic education, but where we have been failing is in the quality of that education. The right to a basic education is simply not enough if we are to compete in an ever competitive global environment. It is absolutely right, therefore, that every policy, action and strategy is guided by the desire to help future generations get the highest standard of education we can provide.
The right to a basic education is simply not enough if we are to compete in an ever competitive global environment
WhAT hAs Been The effecT Of The chAnGes On hOW iMPOrTAnT is The PrOGressiOn AnD MODernisinG Of eDucATiOn in sOuTh AfricA? The advent of democracy in South Africa necessitated a radical transformation in education. This change was based on the constitutionally enshrined right to a basic education for all, and the removal of a raft of racially based legislative policy. There was also a need for modernisation of the curriculum, in line with new discoveries, technological advances and increasing globalisation. After 17 years we can definitely say that in the Western Cape these rights are being met. lOcAl cOMMuniTies? New schools, in the majority of cases, are built because the population increases in the area. New housing developments often pop up in certain areas of South Africa, due to inward migration into the province and the creation of new informal settlements. To cater for the children that arrive in these areas, new schools need to be built. In many instances, a school is rapidly created, using mobile units as classrooms. This is a temporary solution to meet the demands. We then build a new
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Our plan is to update these schools with brick and mortar structures. Some of the old structures are a safety hazard and are prone to burglary and vandalism. The impact of change will be a more safe and secure learning environment for the children of traditionally poor communities.
In the past replacement schools have been built with inappropriate materials such as chipboard and are a legacy of the apartheid era. our plan is to update these schools with brick and mortar structures
WhAT iMPAcT Will The neW insTiTuTiOns hAve On The cOunTry As A WhOle? Investing in education is the best move the govpermanent brick and mortar structurecreating a better learning environment for the children of that local community. In other instances, the Department needs to make alternative arrangements for students, such as providing transport to schools in other areas. A new school in the immediate vicinity and closer to home is always more appropriate for everyone concerned. In the past replacement schools have been built with inappropriate materials such as chipboard and are a legacy of the apartheid era. ernment can make in this country. While these schools provide a safe and secure learning environment, however, they dont necessarily mean that quality education will exist within the classrooms of that new school. This is where we, as a department, and the school management, educators, governing bodies and parents, need to work together to ensure that the best possible learning environment exists. Our strategic plan for education addresses some of the needs that we face in both our new and old schools.
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The neW POrTfOliO Of schOOls incluDes: Technical schools Technical schools are extremely valuable to the Government. They provide important educational opportunities for pupils who want to study in fields such as mechanical technology and engineering, and are key to developing skills in Western Cape. In January 2012, two new technical high schoolsDelft Technical High School and the Northpine Technical Highwill open their doors in the province. The three others are Oude Molen, Belville and Drostdy Technical High Schools. Each of these schools specialise in technical subjects, such as mechanical technology, electrical technology, civil technology, engineering, graphics and design, as well as, mathematics and science. In addition to the five technical high schools, there are nineteen additional comprehensive technical schools. STEM schools This year the WCED opened its third Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) facility in the province. Claremont High School was opened as part of this governments on-going expansion of access to the focused teaching of science and mathematics. The other two facilities are COSAT in Khayelitsha and Tokais Cape Academy. COSAT was recently relocated to a new school building and the Cape Academy is currently being expanded to increase enrolment at the school. All of these projects are part of the infrastructure plan, which, among other things, allows for increased access to quality learning.
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WhAT fAciliTies cAn sTuDenTs exPecT in The neW schOOls? The schools new facilities will include new classrooms, specialist rooms, laboratories, libraries, media centres, computer rooms, school halls, sports facilities, storerooms and offices. The technical schools will have the above, but also specialist workshops, for technical subjects, such as mechanical, electrical and civil engineering.
Which AGe GrOuPs Will sTAnD TO BenefiT MOsT frOM The TrAnsfOrMATiOns? The majority of new facilities are high schools, which will benefit ages 13 -18. Replacement schools are mainly primary schools, benefitting ages 6-13. There are currently fewer high schools than primary schools in the province and the main reason for this is the retention rate of pupils has historically been low. One of our central priorities
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is to improve this situationultimately increasing the need for further high schools. In just two years, we have already made significant headway in this objective. Overall retention has improved by 16 per cent in the last two years. Will hisTOry reMeMBer This TiMe As A revOluTiOn in sOuTh AfricAn eDucATiOn? Yes and No. The advent of democracy in South Africa necessitated a radical transformation in education. This change was based on the constitutionally enshrined right to a basic education for all. After 17 years we can definitely say that in Western Cape these rights are being met. Every child is afforded the opportunity to attend school and receive an education. Where we are failing is in the quality of that education. History will also show that despite significant advances, the response to the qualitative challenge has been too slow. The strategies we have in place now will at least ensure that every child receives a better education than previous generations. fOr yOu PersOnAlly, WhAT is The MOsT reWArDinG PArT Of These venTures? The most rewarding part is that more young
people in Western Cape are passing the exams and achieving access to higher education. Furthermore, we have raised the pass rate in mathematics and science, witnessed more distinctions, increased the number of schools with a 90 per cent and above pass rate, while multiplying the number of underperforming schools. We are confident that these increases are sustainable and reflective of an overall improvement in the state of education in Western Cape. This Government wants to avoid, at all costs, the kind of yo-yo effect that is sometimes experienced in other provinces, and instead build on the momentum achieved in the last two years. This turnaround in the pass rate and the increases in various indicators underscores that we are making significant progress towards achieving our overriding objectives, namely to retain greater numbers of pupils in the system and improve outcomes.
This Government wants to avoid, at all costs, the kind of yo-yo effect that is sometimes experienced in other provinces, and instead build on the momentum achieved in the last two years. TAB
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Muse news coming out o
NEWS IN REVIEW SECTION Title
fOcusPOinT On sOuTh AfricA FocusPoint International Inc., leading provider of global security and speciality risk management services, has announced the establishment of FocusPoint South Africa. The South African subsidiary is based in Cape Town and will serve as the central hub for all business activity carried out in Africa in countries such as Nigeria, Guinea, Senegal, Kenya, Tanzania, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. The emerging markets in Africa offer significant growth opportunities for multinational companies in several industry sectors and bring excitement to inves-
tors, said FocusPoint CEO, Greg Pearson. Weve been well received by the market in South Africa. Establishing a base of operations here allows us to meet with key decision makers for multinational companies at a moments notice, many of which base their African headquarters in South Africa. FocusPoint offers a complete range of consulting, investigation and security services that enables its clients to enter emerging markets and operate with confidence in difficult environments. Were excited to contribute to the growth in this market and look forward to supporting not only multinational companies, but local African
SEPTEMBER 2011 The African Business Journal OCTOBER
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companies as well, Pearson added. incOMinG, eiGhT19 Eight19, a UK solar start-up company, and charity SolarAid are looking for donations to help extend the companys pay-as-you-go solar system to communities across Africa. In a joint partnership Eight19 and SolarAid have spent a combined $200,000 to launch the KickStart Sustainable Energy Fund to support the rollout of the IndiGo system in rural, off-grid African communities. The initial $200,000 will allow 4,000 lighting systems to be deployed in Kenya in early 2012 and users will also receive a battery and a phone charger which they pay for weekly, using scratch cards validated via text message. Providing access to electricity in this way enables communities to bypass the need for the grid and provides enormous social and economic benefits to the users, Bransfield Garth, CEO of Eight19, will say at the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi this week. Eight19 is named after the length of time it vOx On The BOx Jacques Visser, product manager of Vox Telecom Ltd., has announced the companys plan to offer a low-cost internet broadband service to remote areas on the African continent, which are not yet covered by traditional telecommunications infrastructure. The company will use Yahsat, specialised developers of customised satellite solutions, to launch a satellite next month in order to reach these isolated areas. Yahsat is a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi government-owned Mubadala Development Co., and a deal has now been agreed to sell capacity and market the satellite in South Africa. The service has a start date in June this year and Vox expects a total of 40,000 subscribers over the next three years. takes for sunlight to reach the Earth, and a newly commissioned roll-to-roll printing facility at its Cambridge headquarters is expected to help the company hit its target of 10million in funding by the end of this year.
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The market research and advisory company
iT On The increAse in sOuTh AfricA The South African IT services market is set to exceed R40 billion ($5 billion) in 2012, a new study by IDC has shown. noted that the IT sector has seen impressive growth, increasing around 8 per cent year-on-year in 2010 and contributing to more than a third of the total IT spending in the country. After a freeze in IT budgets that came about as a result of the global economic crisis, 2010 saw a rebound in IT services spending, said Suzanne Nolan, research analyst for IT services at IDC South Africa. The growth in IT services spending was driven by a recovering economy, increased business confidence, expanding bandwidth availability, and various infrastructure investments made in the country in 2010, she added. Recent research has shown that IT outsourcing made up around 40 per cent of the South African IT services market, and services such as network and desktop outsourcing and infrastructure saw a significant increase in 2010, thanks to the supply of data centre space and increased customer TechnOlOGy huB OPens neW OPPOrTuniTies in cAMerOOn Activspaces, a technology hub based in the awareness of the managed services model. IDC predicts the total South African IT services market to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 8.7 per cent to exceed R136 billion ($17 billion) in 2015.
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Activspaces community manager. We think that by bringing people together, were building a community centred around technology and pushing ideas together with a strong group spirit. To apply for the space, companies contact the Activspaces board with their idea, which will then be reviewed and considered for acceptance. Banda stressed that Activspaces is not a charity: Just giving out grants to Africa is not really the way forward, because youre putting in value where nothing has been given in return. If one has a project which they feel can really be of impact to the community, they apply...Were basically just a hub where people come together and try southwest of Cameroon, provides workshop space and financial support for up and coming businesses, and has already helped the launch of small business, Zinger Systems. Weve realised that many enterprising techies work in isolation in Cameroon. Theyre struggling to solve problems that have been tackled before. But theyre trying to do this by themselves in these tiny silos, said Al Banda, GOOGle APOlOGies TO kenyAn cOMPAny Web-giants Google have apologised to Kenyan to solve problems and build businesses out of these problems, he added. Activspaces is set to launch a super-incubator this year that will have entrepreneurs living together in apartments with the intention of creating five fullyfunctional businesses by the end of 2012.
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Mocality, Mattos added. niGeriA in sTrike niGhTMAre As Nigerias indefinite nationwide strike enters its fifth day, the strains is beginning to show in Lagos, where most of its occupants survive on less than $2 a day. ATMS are running out of money, gangs of young men are roaming the streets, cars are being hijacked, and people across the city are going to bed hungry. Ive been fasting, one youth said. Im not Jesus Christ Im suffering. Africas most populous nation has been brought to a standstill after the Nigerian government allowed the increase of gasoline prices for consumers and overnight, prices leapt from $1.70 per gallon (45 cents per litre) to more than $3.50 per gallon (94 cents per litre). Food and transportation costs also doubled and the Nigerian fury that their oil-rich country is no longer working in their favour has resulted in nationwide violence and the deaths of at least 10 people. Accusations began when Mocality, a provider of
start-up company Mocality, after allegations that they used unfair methods to collect information on local businesses. online business listings, claimed that Google was scouring its databases to gather information on local businesses based in Kenya. Google reportedly took all the necessary information on small Kenyan businesses from Mocalitys own database, and then proceeded to contact these businesses claiming to be Mocalitys business ally. We were mortified to learn that a team of people working on a Google project improperly used Mocalitys data and misrepresented our relationship with Mocality to encourage customers to create new websites, said Googles vice president for product and engineering in Europe and emerging markets, Nelson Mattos. He said that Google is undertaking an investigation into the matter and all findings will result in necessary action being taken against those responsible for the scandal. Weve already unreservedly apologised to
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Some of the Nigerians are going through pains and hardships because they cant go outside their house and source money, said spokesperson for the Association of Senior Staff of Bank, Insurance and Financial Institution, Tony Ashiedu. Protestor Abraham Overare admitted that, given the chance, he would not hesitate to attack President Goodluck Jonathan. After Friday, it will turn red. The boys are angry, he said. full sTeAM AheAD fOr sWAZilink rAilWAy Swaziland Railways and South African logistics group Transnet have signed a joint agreement to develop a 146 kilometre railway line from Lothair in Mpumalanga to Sidvokodvo Junction in Swaziland. Plans have also been made to upgrade the existing adjacent railway networks in the two countries. The main Swazilink railway line will cost R7.3 billion, with a further R8.6 billion to be spent on the adjacent 600 kilometres of lines, of the investment amount Swaziland will pay R5 billion. This is the first large-scale rail investment in Southern Africa since the construction of the Richards Bay line in 1976, said Brian Molefe, CEO of Transnet. The new rail line is expected to generate 15 million tons of additional capacity, predominantly used for general freight from the current coal export rail line. We are proud to be part of this revolution, Molefe said. As Transnet we have already done a highlevel risk assessment to identify the strategic,
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planning, financial, construction and environmental risks to ensure that this great multi-infrastructural project sees its day. Business TO Give GrADs A BOOsT The South African Minister for Higher Education and Training, Blade Nzimande, has admitted that the current education system is inadequate, but stressed that business in the country is not doing enough to help unemployed graduates. There are an estimated 2 million of these unemployed graduates in South Africa and at the launch of the green paper for post-school education
and training, Nzimande said: This is an appalling waste of human potential and a potential source of serious social instability. The green paper launch aims to address the devastating youth unemployment problem and the consequent lack of quality educational opportunities by doubling the number of students enrolled in university and the number enrolled in further education and training (FET) colleges to four million by 2030. To quell the negative perception about further education and training colleges, we need a joint effort from all sectors of society, and incentives for
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their graduates because persuasion alone does not work, Nzimande stated. However, Neren RauChief Executive of the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industrycalled it: simply untrue that business was not willing to invest in education and instead said that it was a public good. ruGBy rOunD-uP in AfricA The foundation created in memory of Scottish rugby union commentator Bill McLaren is backing a rugby coaching programme in 10 different countries across the African continent. The Bhubesi Pride organisation will provide all terrain vehicles to transport coaches and equipment to various schools in the six month operation which will visit Botswana, South Africa, Uganda, Rwanda, Malawi, Zambia, Namibia, Tanzania, Kenya and Ethiopia. The coaching scheme will begin this month and founder Richard Bennett said he was pleased with the support received from BMF. Rugby and its values as highlighted so well through the BMF is a brilliant way to drive social Turkish DeliGhT fOr sA The South African Ambassador to Turkey, Vika Khumalo, announced at a conference this week that he is striving for a stronger relationship between the two countries. At the conference organised by the South African Turkish Business Association (SATBA), Ambassador Khumalo said: Having listened to what you all do in terms of import and export it sounds very good, I think the relationship between Turkey and South Africa will go from strength to strength. change and to change lives for the better through sports development, he commented. Through Bhubesi Prides project work, we can use the sport in a meaningful way, where children in Africa can enjoy playing the game, but also learn about other important issues such as health and respect of themselves and other around them, he added. Linda Lawson, daughter of McLaren, said: I personally am pleased that were bringing rugby, and Dads name, to places that have never heard of him before.
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Khumalo stated that South Africa holds the became involved in a shoot-out with the alleged poachers who were found in the southern region of the park near where the rhinos were located. As a result, two Mozambican men were shot and a .375 rifle and other hunting equipment discovered, but no rhino horns were found. SANParks regrets the deaths of the suspected poachers but would like to request the public to assist the police and SANParks with any information which may lead to the arrest of more would be poachers, said Reynold Thakhuli, park general manager. An estimated 90 per cent of the worlds 228,800 rhinos reside in South Africa and are under unprecedented attack due to an increase in demand for their goods in Vietnam, Thailand and Laos. kAMPAlA clOse-DOWn Shops and businesses in Kampala have closed and banks are being boycotted after Ugandas central bank raised its rates last year. Interest rates of up to 27 per cent are reportedly devastating businesses in the countrys capital This research was done by the Economist
largest number of natural resources in the world with an estimated value of around $1 trillion. intelligence and the World Bank. We have not yet tapped into the wealth of this country and I think Turkey can assist us in doing that. I would like Turkey to assist us, not just South Africa, but Africa, he continued. Serkan Ergul, the general secretary to SATBA, said: We really encourage our business members to partner with local businesses as a local joint venture, we also encourage Turkish business people not be an importer in South Africa but rather to come and invest in the country. rhinO POAchers POAcheD Two suspected rhino poachers have been killed by game rangers in the Kruger National Park. Earlier this week eight dehorned rhino carcasses were discovered in the southern section of the park; the first of this year after 2011 saw a total of 448 rhinos poached. As rangers followed up the findings, they
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PHOTO CREDIT: PICHUGIN DMITRY / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
and customers travelling through Kampala are unable to buy groceries and other necessities. The strike was called for by the Kampala City Traders Association (KCTA) and is expected to last a further three days. We are not saying they should not increase interest rates, what we are saying is that they should not increase rates on old loans, said Isa Ssekito, spokesperson for KCTA. During the strike period, shop and business owners will withdraw all savings from commercial banks, and refrain from depositing
money into their accounts. The Bank of Uganda increased its base rate last year due to soaring inflation, but Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi says the government is looking at ways to help those struggling with loan repayments. I dont think striking will save property, he comments. I dont think striking will save your business, in fact, striking will hurt you and hurt all of us as a country. GrABBinG A ByTe in AfricA JSE-listed company, BYTES Technology Group,
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has announced intentions to buy the business of technology firm Unisys Africa from Unisys Corporation and CyberKnowledge Systems Investments for an undisclosed amount. Unisys Africas longstanding relationship with public sector agencies will enhance the efforts of Bytes newly established government solutions division and will broaden Bytes client scope, said Rob Abraham, CEO of Bytes Technology Group.
With a presence in both the public and private sectors in South Africa, Unisys Africa offers IT services and technology to customers across the sub-Saharan African region. The deal is yet to be finalised but Abraham is convinced that the transaction will compliment both companies. Initial plans state that Unisys Africa will begin by carrying on operations as a separate entity and
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mobile application for Android systems, which will provide customers with a platform to access and download important shipping information. The launch follows the success of a comparable e-business app for iPhones, iPads and iPod Touch devices, released last year. Benot Lebrunglobal business manager of Safmarinesaid: This new application once again demonstrates Safmarines leadership in providing innovative business solutions to the shipping industry. Android has become an increasingly popular platform for many of the mobile devices used by our customers and the launch of this new application will further improve customers access and later incorporate these into Bytes operations. Last year Bytes bought Security Partnerships and HealthOne for R96 million and Abraham commented: We will continue to look for other suitable acquisitions to fuel our profitable revenue streams. shiP shAPe Safmarine, a South African-based shipping group, has announced the launch of a new experience with Safmarine by making it even easier for our customers to do business with us, no matter where they are, he commented. The app is free to download for Safmarine customers and it relays information such as sailing schedules, container tracking and contact details for Safmarine offices and also includes regular news updates. TAB
secreT DiAry Of A sMAll Busines 032
sMAll Business fOcus
In the first of a new series, fledgling entrepreneur Jenni Smit takes u the trials, triumphs and tribulations of starting a new business. This m seed of an idea emerges from the vestiges of a drunken evening wit Will fortune favour the brave?
f ss
us through month the th friends.
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SMALL BUSINESS FOCUS Secret diary of a small business
While visiTinG My home country of South Africa, I went over to my friend Jonos house (as you do), for dinner. He cooked up a feast for our party of six, which we ravenously consumed in between hefty gulps of red wine, and a ridiculous conversation inspired by a copy of The Encyclopaedia of Turtles an inexplicable entry on our hosts book shelf. Later that nightwith our moods positively enhancedmy friend Helen and I found ourselves back at her house chatting about the future and what mysteries it holds, until the small hours. Somewhere between 1am and 4am I had an epiphany. There were no fireworks or thunderbolts, or even falling apples for that matter, but I made the decision to start my own business, pledging to make 2012 my year of living bravely. A lot of people think that the decision to start your own business is something that happens over a long period of time. This may well be true for many but, in just as many cases; the decision can be made in an instantas I have so conclusively proved! just waiting for me to be courageousor daft enoughto make a go of it. I say daft not because I dont believe in my abilities, but because a) the global economy is not exactly an appealing prospect at the moment and b) I would not class myself as a natural entrepreneur (although I hope I can manufacture the zeal required to be a success). I read somewhere that, once you find a job you love, youll never work again and, you know what, now is exactly the right time for me to prove that the old proverb is true to its word. Sure, the thought of setting up my own business is somewhat scary, but I suspect that going into this with a degree of naivety is likely to prove helpfullike Robert Schuller once so propheti-
Brain cell-ebrate
Admittedly, I had toyed with my particular business idea several years before, but then life got in the way and the idea ended up being added to the list of things to do. Perhaps it was
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Whats it to you? Well, this is simply an invitation to join me for what is sure to be an enlightening, hugely rewarding and, occasionally bumpy ride
cally said : what would you attempt to do if you knew you couldnt fail? Okaynow that youve heard about my moment of inspiration. Who am I, what is this business and whats it to you? Well, my name is Jen and I am a South African currently living in London, where, in order to pay the bills, I work in the arena of corporate communications. I fully intend to use these skills in my new career, but it is time for a complete change and Im very excited. My new venture is still in the embryonic, brainstorming phase but it is essentially an online retail business involving trade between the UK and South AfricaIll tell you more as I go. Whats in it for you? Well, this is simply an invitation to join me for what is sure
to be an enlightening, hugely rewarding and, occasionally bumpy ride.Youll get all the milestonesgood, bad and ugly. Im certain that having an audience will play an important role and may even keep me on track. With a bit of luck and hard graft, I am hoping that before long, my new business will have been born. Whatever happens youll be getting an honest account of what it takes to start a business from scratch. See you next monthheres hoping I wont be bankrupt. TAB
huMAne hOMes
architects of des
sMAll Business fOcus
stiny
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SMALL BUSINESS FOCUS humane homes
John Pinching talks to John fleming visionary behind property developers, humane homesabout how passion, creativity, environmental responsibility and craftsmanship have seen the small company carve out a future, even in the face of a global recession How was the company created?
huMAne hOMes WAs inspired by the housing dilemmas facing South Africans. The idea emerged to deliver a modular home at entry level to the subsidised accommodation sector. The simple and high quality home would include pre-manufactured components and designed to be erected on a pre-cast floor at the site. The prototypes were first tested early in 2010, which provided a better understanding of the wide range of potential target markets, while allowing refinement. Response to the delivery concept and finished product was overwhelmingly positive. We recognised that prospective home owners face many challenges in obtaining financing for a home which meets its budget and the needs of inhabitants, but also allows for extension and improvement in the future. It was essential to provide a product that delivers quality and durability, while meeting aesthetic, power and technology requirements.
We recognised that prospective home owners face many challenges in obtaining financing for a home, which meets its budget and the needs of inhabitants, but also allows for extension and improvement in the future
It soon became apparent that the design approach, technologies and processes employed for the entry level homes, could be extended to the whole spectrum of domestic homes, including luxury bespoke structures, as well as a range of commercial, industrial and institutional buildings.
How have you managed to finance the venture?

Apart from largely self-serving contributions of companies such as MiTek, Saint-Gobain, and even Cashbuild, Humane Homes neither approached, nor received any assistance what so ever from a government agency. Only private loans have been utilised in sustaining the development of the company. The buy-in by Jim Morgan in 2011 allowed us to complete our first show house, and hence promote our company to trading status.
How long has the company been trading?

The close corporation formed in 2009 was
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converted to a full company at the start of 2010. On account of a very long and complicated development process, we only truly announced our presence in the market during October 2011.
alleviate the housing shortage. In addition, we are targeting non-domestic companies that demand high quality and short turnaround times, and to which the designs, technologies and delivery mechanism is attractive.
Who are your typical customers?

They mainly comprise of clients requiring domestic homes, and businesses within the commercial, industrial and education sectors. Our delivery mechanism and routes to market are unusual, in an SA context, as we are seeking to reach some segments of the domestic market through companies and institutions that are committed to help
How many people do you employ?

Currently our company employs around 20 people directly. The number varies according to the various projects on hand. Most works are outsourced and will remain so for the foreseeable future in non-critical areas and where there is a financial benefit to continue to do so.
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Is there an extra incentive to change the world and attitudes as well as making a buck or two?
There is no greater global challenge than finding a way to provide secure housing for roughly half the worlds population and, if the solution was straightforward, it would have been solved long ago. This problem is much more than a housing product - it is also about land, finance, design, material delivery and building methods.
population and, if the solution was straightforward, it would have been solved long ago
These issues must all be solved simultaneously, and solved within very powerful cultural constraints. It is also about insuring long term success with owner education, and affordability of utilities and maintenance. As there are many easier ways to make money, one can only be engaged in this business if one is primarily motivated by meeting an absolutely vital world challenge. The approach and technology is new in the SA context and therefore have to be positioned
There is no greater global test than finding a way to provide secure housing for roughly half the worlds
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in such a manner that encourages uptake. This requires a shift in mind-set. Hopefully this is a small start in changing the face of developing Africa. Across our borders there has been such an interest in Humane Homes products and we are confident that our small business will grow as we get more exposure.
whelming challenge, it is difficult to isolate any one technological breakthrough and in describing one we often describe the integration with another! Technology in the product (building) is an ever-evolving and growing field. Through Humane Homes, technology is brought to market by way of incorporating into several products.
Ultimately, John, what are the greatest benefits of choosing your company?
Humane Homes has assembled a complete team to undertake all of the aspects of this challenge, and produce an end solution. No one else has, so were stepping up. Our speed of delivery, quality, design benefits, cost efficiencies, streamlined production and assembling process, form a unique single operational framework. Humane Homes achievement has been to create a sort of convergence of purpose from market leaders in a variety of fields (such as Cashbuild, SaintGobain and Buildsmart). The legacy is that communities benefit from the processtransfer of skills throughout the process.
What has been your proudest achievement as a businessman?

Being taken seriously. A challenge for any startup is the break that allows it to demonstrate its potential to decision makersnot managers. That opportunity was afforded to us in the trust and faith demonstrated by the investors, Cashbuild, incoming CEO Werner de Jager and outgoing counterpart, Pat Goldrick. One of our proudest achievements has been our ability to choreograph the vested interests of disparate industries, in response to one very difficult problem. We have been successful in doing this since our first formal agreement of joint intent with Cashbuild almost two and a half years ago.
What have been the technological breakthroughs that have most helped your operations?
In keeping with the sheer complexity and over-
being taken seriously is essential. a challenge for any start-up company is the break that allows it to demonstrate its potential
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mane Homes products and delivery processes among partners and facilitators.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your recent projects?
Refining products and processes. The positive feedback and interest elicited at all points in the chain from the end users, encouraging us to continue. In the final analysis, it has to be the privilege of being able to pioneer something new that will have a profound impact on our socio-economic environment, coupled with the fulfilment of our progression at every step; supported by the unwavering enthusiasm of the industry itself.
Do you look for particular qualities in your staff?

Yes, attitudemade up of the following traits: creativity, dedication, perseverance, visionary leadership, flexibility, entrepreneurial spirit, conceptual thinkers and competence.
as there are many easier ways to make money, one can only be engaged in this business if one is primarily motivated by meeting an absolutely vital world challenge TAB
What is the company hoping to achieve over the next few years?
We are very keen to form partnerships with landowners and developers on large scale developments, in order to supply the top structures that will become the hallmark of the company in the future. Also, to greatly increase awareness of Hu-
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visiOn:
To employ a turnkey approach by offering a range of high quality structures to landowners and developers, utilising pre-manufactured and enhanced components, erected and finished on-site by specialist teams, to ensure speed, quality and precision.
PrODucT:
Ranges rely on continuous development of ground-breaking design, technologies and processes at the frontier of market needs and demands. The product range extends from basic, single entry-level units to high-end bespoke structures, finding application in domestic housing, as well as commercial, industrial and institutional structures. Survival and growth in a global economic downturn: The main challenge for the company during the poor global economic climate has always been to grow and develop the reputation of Human Homes, while continuing to capture imagination and inspire enthusiasm. The key to survival is positivity.
MissiOn:
To exploit the best technologies and delivery processes available for the product ranges, achieve cost-effective delivery, provide the mechanism for future enhancement and extend the structures in future.
PHOTO CREDIT: THESUPERMAT/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
POliTics
a million voices
yOussOu nDOur
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POLITICS youssou nDour
youssou nDour hopes to capture Senegalese votes as he lays claim to the presidency of his beloved country. TabJ charts the progress of a mercurial pop star whose knowledge of Senegal would appear to transcend his lack of academic qualifications.
fOr MAny he will always be the voice behind one of the most haunting and defining pop anthems of the 1990s. Now Youssou NDour is determined to top the political charts, after declaring himself a candidate in the fiercely competitive race to become Senegals next president. In addition to the global success he gained with 7 Secondsthe huge 1994 hit on which he collaborated with the British female vocalist Nenah CherryNDour has enjoyed sustained success and huge popularity in his native Senegal. He has been credited with bringing the countrys unique mbalax drumming and singing styles to the mainstream, while also gaining recognition for the creative fusion of salsa, jazz and hip-hop.
which threatens to boil over. It concerns whether Wadewho is almost 86should be allowed to increase his 11 year tenure by a third term. The revised Senegalese constitution limits presidential terms to two, but Wadein a cheeky attempt to blur the rulesclaims that this should not apply to his first, as it started in 2000, thereby pre-dating the amendment. Many believe that age and arrogance have combined to create a monster. The revised Senegalese constitution limits presidential terms to two, but Wadein a cheeky attempt to blur the rulesclaims that this should not apply to his first, as it started in 2000, thereby pre-dating the amendment Resentment over Wades leadership reached a crescendo in June last year when Wade proposed new electoral rules, which would have made it easier for him to win the poll, and eventually hand power over to his son. Pressure on the President also increased whenenraged by chronic power cutsprotesters clashed with riot police in the capital, Dakar, leaving more than 100 wounded; forcing the president to back down.
Getting Wade
Next months elections will see the musicianalong with a dozen other contendersbid to oust Abdoulaye Wade, the African states current leader. In a tense lead up to the showdown on February 26 there has been a volatile constitutional row,
Singing hope
NDour has been one of the loudest and most frequent critics of Wades premiership, ever since their bitter feud began in 2005. Before
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PHOTO CREDIT: HENRYK KOTOWSKI/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
then they were close allies and the singer even sang for him a number of times. Some critics say NDoura successful entrepreneurstopped backing President Wade when he realised his businesses would not benefit from the relationship any more. This hasnt, however, stopped thousands of voters seeing the singer as something of a savioura man of the people. The singer has been especially scathing about what he calls the profligate spending of the Wade leadership, in a country where formal employment is scarce and average income per head is $3 (1.90) a day. Meanwhile, NDour has even cancelled a number of gigs to ensure he is fully prepared for a robust leadership battle and pulled no punches in his early leadership contest declaration. I am a candidate and I will engage in the presidential race, he told national radio and television. Somewhat appropriately, the lyrics in 7 Sec-
onds refer to the constant social, financial and emotional burdens that many human beings face from the moment they are born. In a satisfying twist NDour will now try and improve the lives of some of the most disenfranchised people in the world. The lyrics in 7 Seconds refer to the constant social, financial and emotional battles that many human beings face from the moment they are born. In a satisfying twist NDour will now try and improve thousands of lives For a long time, men and women have demonstrated their optimism, dreaming of a new Senegal, NDour said, as he began to step up the campaign. They have, in various ways, called for my candidacy in the February presidential race. I listened. I heard. In response to questions about his lack of a university education, he was defiant. It is true that I do not have a university education but being a president is not something
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ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER
PHOTO CREDIT: BOB DORAN/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
RONALD REAGAN
POPulAr culTure in POliTics

Youssour NDour is by no means the only show biz patron to have swaggered, tambourine-inhand, onto the political stage. John Pinching takes a look at other entertainers who have gambled their reputations.
didnt stop him becoming Governor of California in 2003, consequently producing his least convincing performance to date.
Ronald Reagan After his career as a B-Movie actorpredominantly in low budget WesternsReagan reinvented himself at as a representative of his beloved Republican party.
Arnold Schwarzenegger Possessing all the acting range of a house brick this daft Austrian ex-body builder became one of Hollywoods biggest box office pulls throughout the 1980s and 90s. When revisiting Predator, Twins and The Terminator its impossible to understand why he was in such demand. This, however,
His wholesome, all-American image seduced the electorate and he gradually rose up the ranks, eventually getting the key to the White House in 1980. He remained there for nine years, flogging arms and gradually becoming rather untrustworthy.
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GLENDA JACKSON
SEBASTIAN COE
Glenda Jackson Unlike one or two of the previous examples, Glenda was a genuine thespianstylish, attractive and classically trained. Before becoming a Labour MP in 1992 she recorded distinguished performance in many films, including Women In Love and A Touch of Class (winning an Oscar for both). She also made a memorable appearance playing Cleopatra on the Morecombe and Wise Christmas special in 1971.
certain that he also appeared on A Question of Sport). He later resurfaced as a slimy, slithering, self-satisfied Tory MP. He has also overseen much of the corporation-led London Olympic Games prompting some to label it the Coe-lympics. I see what theyve done there.
Sebastian Coe Okay, not exactly a show business legend, nevertheless Coe was one of the most famous athletes of the 1980s, winning gold medals for Britain at two Olympics (Im
PHOTO CREDIT: DOHA STADIUM PLUS QATAR/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
PHOTO CREDIT: WWW.PARLIAMENT.UK
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they teach at school. It is a supreme patriotic duty. I have proved my competence, commitment, rigour and efficiency time and time again. I have studied at the school of the world. Travel teaches as much as books, he added. It is true lyrics that I do not have a university education but being a president is not something they teach at school. I have studied at the school of the world
Natural harmonies
Youssou NDours candidacy has not come as a great surprise to his countrymen. For years his lyrics have indicated, not only an appreciation of the human condition, but an acute political awareness. Last year he engaged in domestic politics on a number of occasions, denouncing Wades attempt to suppress a run-off vote in the presidential elections in the process.
PHOTO CREDIT: WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM ANNUAL MEETING NEW YORK
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There is no doubt that NDour is extremely popular in Senegal, however, the key to transcending his chosen craft and succeeding in the unforgiving political theatre will be whether he can articulate messages as well as he does in his music. Potential voters will also want to see new, well-structured policies and an appetite for cultural change throughput Senegal. Can he now turn hundreds of thousands of fans into voters? His radio and TV networks will be of great help, but the transition from stadiums to the corridors of power will not be straight forward. If he does reach the summit it will be the greatest performance of his life. His most famous song stressed the importance of seconds, but this time NDour wants years. TAB WWW.yOussOu.cOM
K 2002
like A BAT OuT Of hell

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South africas steady and sometimes spectacular developm cricketing nation has been admirable, but the legacy of d captain hansie Cronje, still casts a shadow.
sPOrTs
ment as a disgraced
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SPORTS like a bat out of hell
HERSCHELLE GIBBS
PHOTO CREDIT: YELLOWMONKEY/BINGUYEN/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
MOHAMMAD AMIR
PHOTO CREDIT: WONKER/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
MOHAMMAD ASIF
PHOTO CREDIT: NGB/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
The lAsT six months have not been cricket. Well, they have been cricketbut not as a gentleman would like to witness it. In November 2011 a trio of hopelessly misguided Pakistani cricketers were packed off to the clink after Londons Southwark Crown court found them guilty of spot-fixing. Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Amirwhose guilt had been written across their conspicuously sheepish faces ever since they sent the game spiralling into the mire, during a test match against England at Lords in 2010will wonder why they, literally, threw everything away. It had already been a disastrous tour for the visitors when the two fast bowlers, Amir and Asifurged on by their captain, Buttproceeded to bowl no-balls of such mind-boggling obviousness, it was almost laughable. As the game reeled from this embarrassment another young bowler from Essex, Mervyn Westfield, was in the dock after inexplicably giving into the whims of an Asian betting syndicate. Another life ruined. What makes these cases especially inexplicable, is how the players in questioneven within the often baffling nuances of cricketare so blatent. In the final analysis, these cases were not difficult to prove. During the passage of play
It had already been a disastrous tour for the visitors when the two fast bowlers, amir and asifurged on by their captain, buttproceeded to bowl no-balls of such mind-boggling obviousness, it was almost laughable
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in which the players cheat when, one presumes, a certain amount of subtly is required these talented sportmen go from devastatingly accurate professionals to elderly clergyman heaving their ancient limbs across the village green. Its all so depressing familiar to cricket fans. Weve been here before and, as history will witness, these things always, always end badly.
Hansie solo
Seventeen years ago, when South Africa tentatively took their first steps back onto the international stage Hansie was there to guide them and what a shining fluorescent torch he was too. The English crowd, in front of whom South Africa would play their first comeback test, are everrespectful of a talented overseas visitor and, in Hansie, they saw a player who, over a balmy summer they could warm to, even if his sweater did have a green trim. They had applauded many a conqueror of their team before (god knows, theres been a few), but this time each individual clap contained just that little more resonance. Hansie was a fine cricketer, but that was not the only reason for the extra frisson in the English ovation. It was also a recognition that here was cavalier, not only leading a test XI, but also the hopeseven the future prosperityof an entire nation. It was one of the biggest responsibilities in the history of sport and yet Cronje carried it with charm, grace and dignity. Hansie was thoroughly professional, kind, firm, generous, hard-working and his team would have walked up Table Mountain for him, said his former international manager Bob Woolmer (who also died in the midst of a gambling conspiracy).
In the beginning
While South African rugbys Springbok-guided missile has blazed a euphoric trail and often dominant rise since throwing away the shackles of apartheid, the countrys cricketers have swayed between aweinspiring brilliance and inexplicable stupidity. Back in 1994 a young, smart and ravenheaded batsmen emerged from the ruins of South African cricket to lead his team into a brave new era in which they would, once again, be permitted to perform on the international stage, pitting their wits against the best test cricket teams in the world (and England). Inspirational, well-educated and mature beyond his years Hansie Cronje was the perfect poster-boy for this brave new generation of South African cricket. Indeed, in 1994 it was impossiblepreposterous even to considerthat only a few years later he would be throwing matches in exchange for as little as an item of clothing.
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SPORTS like a bat out of hell
WhAT is sPOT fixinG?

Spot fixing is a derivative of spread betting. Rather than betting on the outcome of a small event within a sport such as a game (tennis), half (football), frame (snooker) or over (cricket), a spot-fixing gambler can predict the outcome of an individual unit, within a small eventfor instance a single delivery in an over of cricket. The person betting may wish to combine predictions by guessing several occurrences within a chapter of play. In the case of the convicted Pakistan cricketers it had been agreed prior to the match that in two specific overs, one no-ball and two no-balls would be bowled respectively.
times he accepted bribes in exchange for deliberately changing the course of a game or throwing matches, but the most notable occasions were against India in 1996 and England in 1999. From supplying team selection details, he started to meddle with the outcome of events within games and, as he became increasingly submissive to the syndicates the once-proud captain started to manipulate players with in the team. These included Herschelle Gibbs*, Henry Williams, Nicky Boje and Pieter Strydom. *Hansie, if youre listening, please dont waste too much time feeling guilty about leading Herschelle Gibbs astray, he is quite capable of being an idiot without your help. One of the most puzzling aspects of the Cronje affair was his compliance with the requirements of his gambling associates. Although the
The england fans had applauded many a conqueror of their team before, but for hansie each individual clap contained just that little more resonance
financial rewards were often extravagant, equally there were times when his fee would be as little as a leather jacketand a womans leather jacket at that.
The crash
Yet, behind the charm Cronje was slipping into the murky world of gamblingspread betting to be more precise. We may never know how many
although the financial rewards were often extravagant, equally there were times when his fee would be as little as a leather jacketand a womans leather jacket at that
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After an emotional confession, the drama unfolded in a courtroom and a broken Cronje had to be helped out of the dock by his brother, captured by the worlds cameras. The tragedy was made complete when Cronje died in a plane crash in 2002. Not even the sight of that wreckagenot just the plane, but the manhas been enough to persuade players that their fortune lies, not in corruption, but in honest sportsmanship. Although, exposure can change attitudes, it cannot rid the world completely of fraudulent activity in even the most sacred past times. We have to accept that what we are witnessing is an incurable curiosity that inhabits the darkest aspects of the human condition. Cronje was unquestionably greedy; clearly in the grip of an inveterate and curious addiction, which went way beyond financial recompense. He was a national hero and an inspiration to millions and yet it was the chancethe thrill if you willof gambling with his own reputation and legacy that appeared so oddly and devastatingly irresistible. TAB
The Cape C
The fine line beTween prof
Our man in C
sporT
fessionalism and TreaChery
Crusader
Luke Schmidt / ShutterStock.com
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Cape Town Andrew Three Sugars Miskin
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SPORTS The Cape crusader
Mickey arthurs indiscretion is an offence of far greater magnitude. every time I hear the traitor being interviewed, it takes every ounce of strength not to throw the television screen out of the window
PHOTO BY: YELLOWMONKEY/BLNGUYEN. WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
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When sport is consumed, we can legitimately deny our good upbringings, our private education, dare I say it, our better judgement
A very cOMMOn philosophical observation of those viewing our extraordinary planet from outer space is that there are no visible national, provincial or class boundaries. I can only imagine that a distinctly 1960s frisson penetrates their soul, as they are temporarily divorced from the racial, nationalistic and bigoted tendencies they exhibit on terra firma. We hardened beings are, however, keenly aware of the negative impact of differences in religion, skin colour, language and educational levels in our daily lives, while some seriously conservative freaks have contemplated the blissful state that would be enjoyed if we all spoke the same language, ate the same food, believed the same things. The reality is, divisions are here to stay, and peace will be fleetingly achieved at best. There is an upside, however, when tapping into our deep-
est feelings of partialityit makes sport endlessly fascinating and incredibly exciting. When sport is consumed, we can legitimately deny our good upbringings, our private education, dare I say it, our better judgement. My goodness, it feels amazing to despise the team from across town, across the country, across the continent and across the world. The opposition, for 80 minutes of raw rugby, or even five days of cricket, are not as good as us, not as worthy as us. They are pure, unadulterated scum. Whats more, the other 50,000 in the stadium agree with you!
Universal language
This understanding of sportand its unique languageis held in many disciplines and in most parts of the world. If further proof was needed, the supporters memorabilia, team kits, flags
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SPORTS The Cape crusader
Social mediathe modern day gospelhas revealed that nick Mallett may well betray his roots and accept a role as the next head coach of the unkempt and disorderly english roses of Twickenham
always sell like hot cakes. Recently, however, seasoned sports watchers have noticed a sinister and pervasive spirit entering our beloved teams, dirtying our pure, bigoted joy. This enemy is the so-called professionalism employed by previously patriotic sports people. Furthermore, players and coaches try to justify gross acts of disloyalty with the increasingly popular open-mindedness excuse. Take for example a certain Mickey Arthur, the ex-Protea cricket coach. Why do I single him
out? Surely Allan Donald and Gary Kirstenboth involved in the current Protea set-upare just as guilty, having coached cricket in New Zealand and India respectively? Gary led India to victory in a World Cup, our achilles heel tournament, while Allan Donald assisted the New Zealand attack in overcoming the formidable Protea batting line-up in the quarter finals. Allans obvious glee at the result left a lot of loyal South African supporters feeling a little bit let down, even betrayed, yet, Inexplicably, we find it in our great hearts to
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forgive these two men, who were welcomed back with open arms.
cart-wheeling toward a decision that will place him so far beyond the aforementioned line that no upstanding Springbok supporter could ever utter his name again.
Arthur man he used to be

I would venture to suggest, Mickey Arthurs indiscretion is an offence of far greater magnitude. He left the South African cricket coaching role under a bit of a cloud, and then proceeded to sell us all down the river by taking up a coaching role a head coaching role with our arch enemies, whose very name we choke on! Can he ever be forgiven? Every time I hear the traitor being interviewed, it takes every ounce of strength not to throw the television out of the window. He wants the Aussies to be, number one in the world again, in all three disciplines of the game! Thats not only offensive, but completely unforgivable. But it is the professional age, isnt it? I hear you argue. If you were offered that kind of career opportunity and undoubtedly oodles of dosh, wouldnt you do the same? I hear you add, condescendingly. The truth is I dont think I wouldnt even entertain the thought, let alone the reality. Where is the line between professionalism and treachery? Its the line Arthur crosses every time he shouts encouragement at a gold shirt. Some fairly loud whispers from the rugby world suggest a similar South African Judas may be emerging, as his treacherous heart leads him
Propping up the Boer

Social mediathe modern day gospelhas revealed that Nick Mallett (current coach of Italy) may well betray his roots and accept a role as the next head coach of the unkempt and disorderly English Roses of Twickenhamthe very same bullies that resorted to such unspeakable tactics during the Anglo-Boer wars. It is the knowledge of military history and pain that our ancestors endured, which courses through the veins of every respectable Springbok, fuelling each and every full-blooded tackle. The June three-test series between the Poms and Boks in South Africa will take on even more epic proportions should Mallett be at the helm, especially he has the unenviable task of staring down Gert Smal. Whatever the outcome, my allegiances will remain intact, which is more than I can say for my countrymen. Mickey, you are a traitor, and Nick Mallett, consider yourself put on notice. 30 pieces of silver for your soul. TAB
064 nATiOnAl
Of sOuTh
eDucATiOn
l liBrAry h AfricA
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EDUCATION national library of South africa
Despite the allure of tablets, Kindles and high-res paraphernalia, books just keep bouncing back. one of the essential pantheons of page turners is the national library of South africa and its story is almost as captivating as the ones it houses
Peruse The shelves, smile at the familiar titles, and stare inquisitively at the array of more unfamiliar spines. Think of the possibilities. My word, is there anything more therapeutic than floating down the mysterious isles of a library? No, there is not.
publications, maps, technical reports, Africana and newspapers. Many of these priceless documents are available on CD or microfilm, in digital format or online. Head of Communications Andrew Malotle believes that the librarys passion for sharing its impressive collections have been pivotal to its success. We ensure that knowledge is not lost to posterity, and that information is available to research for everyone, he enthuses. The library still has an essential role to play in the community.
On the books Shelf life

The National Library of South Africa was formed back in 1999. This new and inspirational institution was formed by amalgamating the State Library in Pretoria and the South African Library in Cape Town, while also incorporating a specialist unitthe Centre for the Book. The library is the proud custodian and provider of the nations key educational resources. It collects and preserves published documents, making them accessible to thousands of people every year. This astonishingly versatile institution contains a wealth of fascinating items, including rare manuscripts, books published in South Africa, periodicals, government papers, official foreign Skilled and dedicated staff in the Reference and text retrieval departments of the Pretoria Campus, are there to offer information services with a dedicated manifesto of service. Their responsibilities include promoting optimal access to published and unpublished documents, providing references to specific subjects and delivering services to clients in the language of their choice. Reference librarians assist patrons in identifying and finding information they need. In addition, they provide research assistance to clients, advising them of search strategies and showing them how to use online resources and the hugely impressive Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC).
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EDUCATION national library of South africa
The reference librarians also correspond with clients via e-mail, letters, telephone, fax, and the Ask a Reference Librarian function on the librarys webpage. Meanwhile, text retrieval staff collate identified material from the collections and make photocopies and microfilm printouts for client projects.
plentiful space for reading and study. It has reference collections kept on the open shelves, assisting clients in their search for information sources and government publications. The Reading room is also equipped with state-of-the-art computers to access online resources and databases. The Map Library, as its title suggests, contains a vast array of maps which visitors request and make use of in the aforementioned Reading Room. The Microfilm Room provide microfiche and microfilm readers for clients to make view extensive materials. Text retrieval staff assist people on the use of this equipment. Another very useful facilitythe Discussion Roomcaters for clients who wish to work as
Carry on Campus
The facilities for clients at Pretoria campus have proved immensely popular, attracting students, business people, kids, older folk and archive enthusiasts from all over the country. Among its facilities is the majestic reading room. This inspiring area provides tranquillity and
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Conservation activities including bookbinding, book repairs and sophisticated conservation treatment are also significant priorities. Damaged materials, in need of repair, are treated in the dedicated conservation department. Specialist conservation staffall passionate about the maintenance and longevity of precious documentsare poised to assist with salvage operations. Most conservation functions are applied to the librarys collections, although advice is regularly imparted regarding private collections The new digitisation service is a very exciting initiative, which creates digital records of materials for both preservation and access. It involves study groups and need to discuss and exchange ideas for their research projects. a variety of technical approaches or strategies for ensuring that publications in digital form are retrievable, readable and consistently usable over time, for as long as they are needed. This venture endorses a long-standing institutional commitment to developing appropriate standards for these cutting edge systems. The South African National Library has used all its expertise to modernise the library experience, while also maintaining all the traditions which give visitors such an unforgettable experience. Indeed, you could say the last 13 years have been a master class in shelf confidence. TAB WWW.nlsA.Ac.ZA
Shelf-preservation society
The National Library of South Africa acts as national preservation library and provides a leadership role in the South African library and information profession. The task of the Preservation Services Programme is to ensure that the Library maintains and develops world-class policies and practices, capable of providing vital conservation services on a national basis. This mandate includes preservation awareness, care of collections, guidelines for conservation and disaster planning and recovery.
Geo 070
MulTi-TAle
MininG
oGroup
enTeD MAchine
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RESOURCES GeoGroup
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To say that GeoGroup has its fingers in a number of pies would be an understatement. The energy and mining luminaries have been responsible for passionately using innovation, technology, environmental awareness and creativity to transform several industries.
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RESOURCES GeoGroup
The GeOGrOuP, As the intro suggests, is a veritable labyrinth of highly specialised services. Within this central hub, there are a whole host of satellite companies, all of which have a close relationship with each other. These linked in activities mean that clients are often able to rely on multiple GeoGroup services for a single project. The head office in Johannesburg has never seen its family of businesses in such good health!
Social network
One of the companies, Geomechanics, is the flagship venture and has been trading for nearly a quarter of a century. It specialises in geotechnical investigations, railway lines, bridges, tunnels and large civil engineering projects, while also focusing on geological research for mineral exploration. The ventures that the GeoGroup represents in terms of drilling are generally situated in the
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Johannesburg area in Pretoria, but it also operates extensively throughout the country, branching all over the coast. The impressive portfolio also includes GeoPower Solutions, which specialises in renewable energy projects. It works in conjunction with General Electric, developing wind and solar farms in the Eastern Cape regions of South Africa. Meanwhile, GeoPower is a diesel generator supply company that rents and sells generators internationally. It keeps a large stock of generators in Johannesburg. A splendidly-named company called GeoCrush screens rock for civil construction, while Green-a-Planet is an indigenous nursery, which grows feed in bulk on a wholesale basis, for developers and companies requiring trees. GeoPlant, GeoStone, Geomech Africa, Terra Power Solutions and GeoSolar Energy complete the formidable line up. In order to accommodate this burgeoning collection of enterprises, the GeoGroup has access to over 4000 square meters of factory space, which is situated near the airport at Lanseria.
He has witnessed the early gambles pay dividends and believes the companys increasingly expansive range of services as well as its diversification into different regions, has been pivotal to its sustained success. Weve grown from a one rig outfit, to a 75 rig business, so weve always looked further afield for work, he enthuses. To provide a constant flow of work to the company, weve established ourselves, not only in South Africa but also Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia and Liberia, with several successful ventures. The group of companies have always been progressive, ambitious and technology-friendly enterprises. I think in the last 10 years the most radical changes have been diversification into different forms of drilling and different types of machinery which, in turn, provide services for different requirements related to exploration and geotechnical work, says Rossiter. We enjoy finding solutions and producing results. Client issues have become a very prominent feature of the way in which we do business, he adds.
Ahead of the game

Dave Rossitera man for all seasonshas been at the helm since those halcyon days when the company began its journey, back in the late eighties.
Green light
The GeoGroup is committed to doing minimum harm to the environment, while providing
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RESOURCES GeoGroup
maximum support to the local communities and employing the best technologies available. Its strength lies in its entrepreneurial abilities, understanding of the African culture, experience of working conditions and ability to cross the borders into neighbouring countries. As the energy resource landscape changes and attitudes towards alternative sources alters, the company has relished the opportunity to move with the times and has sought to expand into new, and forward-thinking areas. In doing so the group has created an abundance of new options for its clients.
Over the last few years we have become passionately involved in the geotechnical studies for wind and solar farms in this country, Rossiter explains. These techniques are the future for much of the business; its something which will affect the entire industry in South Africa and we want to be at the forefront of the revolution. The green initiatives are sure to give a boost to the companys trading platform and, with the government likely to listen to proposals for power purchase agreements soon, the company is in a prime position to take on public sector contracts.
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We commit to continual improvement in our performance, efficient use of natural resources and aspire to a zero harm to people and the environment policy, says Rossiter, reassuringly. In a changing world, companies need to be For Geomechanics its a particularly exciting time to be involved in the alternative energy market. Unlike many other companies it has carefully done its homework, enthusiastically getting involved in green ventures from the beginning, building up knowledge and experience, and preparing the business for the increasing demand for alternative sources. WWW.GeOGrOuP.cOM able to change too. Refreshingly, GeoGroup is all about diversification, technology and flexibility. Above all, however, its about choice and the company has made a few that havequite literallychanged the landscape and peoples lives forever. TAB
A JO
MininG
OB fOr A MAniTOu
078
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MINING Manitou
Mining isnt for the feint-hearted and when a company embarks on a tough project, on unforgiving terrain, it needs to know that the machines being used will keep going. for the companies that rely of Manitou, its reassuring to know that each and every machine really means business
The MulTiTuDe Of choice in the Manitou portfolio mean that clients can get on with ventures knowing that they will be prepared for any eventuality. Decades of technological wizardry and knowledge have gone into the mighty machines
on their sites. Indeed, all across South Africa, Manitou gear is making hard work much easier.
Miner mission
Although mining masters, Manitou South Africa, were established on the continent in 1997, the parent company can boast half a century ofliterallyground breaking ideas, innovation and workmanship. The South African adventure has been hugely successful and now the company can boast three bases in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.
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MINING Manitou
Financial Services CC
Reg # 2008/253166/23
Jabelo
Tel: 011 805 1356 Fax: 086 635 1433 Cell: 082 880 9641 Email: Jannie@jabelo.co.za
ACTIVE MEMBER: J.L. VAN NIEKERK (JANNIE) FSP 37851

Jabelo Financial Services CC is a licensed Financial institution registered with the Financial Services Board. What do we offer you as a Consumer? Jabelo Financial Services CC provides full nancial planning for individuals and institutions, taking into account the complete nancial portfolio. We shall analyse each business and/or individuals nancial situation, highlight problem areas and provide solutions to meet these problems. Services include: Business and related Insurance such as Medical Aid cover, Pension and Provident Funds, Buy and Sell and Key Man Insurance, Preferred Compensation, Personal Life insurance, Disability and Dreaded Disease cover, Personal Estate duty structuring, Retirement planning, Investment structuring, Planning for family security, Home Loans, Education nancing. Jannie van Niekerk and Jabelo have been Manitou SAs Financial Adviser in respect of Medical Aid, Provident Funds and Business insurance since 2004. - Lindsay Shankland, Managing Director, Manitou SA.
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The quality of these magnificent machines has resulted in a brilliant reputation in the heavy duty equipment industry. Over the last 14 year, 100s of companies have trusted Manitous machines with getting the job done, and done well. In a competitive market place Manitou is, by some considerable distance, the league leader a position it has resolutely maintained, and doesnt look like relinquishing any time soon. Some of the most popular Manitou products include telescopic handlers, forklifts, truck mounted forklift, access platforms, warehousing equipment, skid steer loaders, articulated loaders, attachments and handling equipment.
The company also provide an unparalleled level of excellence in its delivery of a 24-hour back up and support service. This unique facility provides customers with advice, technical support and repairs. Managing Director Lindsay Shankland is in no doubt that the companys heritage has been hugely influential in guaranteeing its continued success. The greatest benefit to our clients is that they are getting the worlds best equipment; Manitou is without doubt the world leader, he enthuses. Within South Africa what we trust most in the business, is our service delivery.
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MINING Manitou
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Proud to supply for Manitou

Hippo Clothing creates and develops public identities for business, artists, schools, soccer clubs societies etc. Hippo supplies quality brands of clothing and gifts. We provide a corporate branding service using laser engraving, pad printing, embroidery, screen printing and varying methods of embossing. Hippo is a professional in the branding and supply of Corporate Workwear, Overalls, Beanies, Pens, Stationery and a wide selection of clothing and corporate promotional items. We put your private or corporate stamp on clothing, leather, metal, stationery and other impressionable materials. Bulk Clothing, Gift and Branding Orders are welcome. Quality Branding Solutions for business and personal proles.
100% Cotton Reective Work Jacket & Trousers
Andrew Siddall - Managing Member | Hippo Clothing cc - Tel: +27 (0)11 466-2238 | Cell: (+27) (11) 84 892 6078 | www.hippoclothing-southafrica.webs.com
Special effects
Manitous impressive stock is brought in from its manufacturing base in France. By virtue of being built across the water, all the machines meet the new international rules relating to noise and emission levels. Once in South Africa the workforcewhich has risen to almost 60offer a modification service for the very specific needs of its local clients. The adaptation of machines has been hugely popular with mining operations in South Africa, many of which are working in unusually dense or inhospitable terrain.
It is also very important to the company that it brings cost-effective mechanisation to local and overseas mining operations, with a variety of material handling equipment and specialised attachments, such as the custom-designed roof bolter or drill rig. These machines offer increased productivity, versatility, low fuel consumption and maintenance costs. The equipment also has a considerably longer lifeessential when clients intent to use facilities on a daily basis. While Manitou has an illustrious and unparalleled history of providing equipment to the mining industry, it has also become increasingly
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MINING Manitou
diverse over the years. In South Africa, mining and construction were originally about 65 per cent of our business, explains Shankland. Mining is still the biggest portion of our business; thats where we built our reputation, but we also supply machines right across various business platforms, especially where they require a rough terrain or semi-rough terrain machine. The companys versatility can also be seen in its extracurricular activities. It recently cosponsored Mozambiques Guinjata Sport Fishing Clubs brilliantly-titled, Z-Craft/Mercury Species Bonanza and even flexed its muscles at a
SA Strongman Union competition held in Nigel, where it provided sponsorship and the services of a Manitou forklift to set up some of the extraordinary competition segments.
Foothold on the future

Manitou are constantly looking for new ways to evolve, new opportunities and new markets in which to sell its machines. In recent times the company has worked on the development of underground mining machines. During 2011 we displayed our first flameproof soft rock and hard rock underground utility
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Forklift Services Specializing in Sales on New & Used Forklifts and Loaders, Rentals, Field Service, Spares and Reconditioning on all makes of Forklifts
rk lift We are fo
Tel: +2731 705 4182 Fax: +2731 705 4339 Email: amalgamated@telkomsa.net 104 Shepstone Road, New Germany | P.O. Box 2403, New Germany, 3620
Paddy +27 82 452 2093 Jonathan +27 82 902 0086
www.a4klift.co.za
vehicle, enthused Shankland. Weve now agreed with Manitou France that we can export underground machines from South Africa, due to our vast experience over the last nine years, in this equipment area. This exciting and innovative machinery will also be marketed globally and offered to the rest of the world in the next few years. The technology is expected to become one of the hottest-selling Manitou items in its history. Manitou can look back of an impressive array of technological achievements, expanding possibilities in some of the toughest areas on the
planet. Perhaps, its greatest asset, however, is the ability to keep moving, always looking for the next improvement. Ultimately, Manitou has the key to surviving and thriving in one of the most competitive industriesdriving strength. WWW.MAniTOu.cO.ZA
botswa
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sAlT Of Th
botswanas v businesses a meet their d leading resou
MininG
ana ash
he eArTh
vast salt pans are home to minerals sort after by across the continent; helping these african firms demands is botswana ash, one of southern africas urce suppliers.
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MINING botswana ash
BOTsWAnA Ash (BOTAsh), the leading supplier of salt and soda ash in southern Africa, has been at the forefront of its industry for twenty years. With world consumption of soda ash close totalling around the 50 million tonnes mark per annum, the company has been helping businesses across Africa meet their own demands. All of the companys activities, from production through to marketing and sales to administration, take place at its mine near Sowa.
Botash has a production capacity of more than 700,000 tonnes per annum and its mine is located on the east side of the Makgadikgadi pan, one of the largest and most famous salt flats on the planet. The company produces a range of salts, which are sold across the African continent, and has a core focus on South Africa, its key market for soda ash where its products are most often used in the countrys glass industry.
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MINING botswana ash
Other uses of soda ash include various metallurgical applications and paper manufacture. In order to obtain the minerals, Botash has to drills wells into underground aquifers below the surface of the dry and saline sands of the pan from where it collects and pumps brine into solar evaporation ponds. It is in these ponds that the extraction process begins. The seeds of the company were planted in November 1988, when the Botswana Government, AECI, Anglo American Corporation and De Beers signed an agreement to build a multi-million dollar soda ash and salt plant at Sua. By April 1991 the plant was in operation as the organisation began to exploit the natural deposits of the pan. In 1995 the company was restructured as Botswana Ash (Pty) Ltd, with the Botswana Government as the major shareholder with a 50 per cent share in the company. Anglo American Corporation, AECI and De Beers each hold 14 per cent, while the remaining eight per cent is held by a bank consortium.
Regional employer
Botash is one of the regions largest employees with a workforce totalling more than 450. The company offers ongoing training opportunities for its staff and has in place a localisation programme
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aimed at reducing reliance on expatriate employees in favour of local workers. Sowa Town was constructed 20 kilometres from the plant to accommodate and support Botashs employees. The settlement was built on behalf of the government by the Botswana Housing Corporation and comprises more than 800 houses. Set among a pristine natural environment in remote Botswana, Sowa has become a haven for wildlife and bird enthusiasts, and the town features medical and educational facilities for residents. Much of the Sowas social life centres on the homely Country Club and the towns own unique golf course features sand fairways while the purpose-built Botash stadium is home to various football teams. Botash operates a free bus service for the towns residents to and from its plant, and other facilities in the town include shops, a bank, library, gymnasium, and swimming, tennis and squash facilities.
Environmentally sound
Botash has taken a proactive stance towards the environment since its very early days and, as well as having in place a full-time environmental officer, the firm has aligned itself with the ISO 14000 international environmental standard.
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MINING botswana ash
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Example of its commitment to the natural environment include the power cables from the spit to the wellfield, which it buried in order to prevent interference with the flight path between the feeding and breeding grounds of local flamingos. Rather than chop down trees the company has in the past moved them to urban areas where they have found a new use as shade providers. Botash also acts to ensure that effluents are carefully contained and impounded so that contaminants do not enter underground water systems supplying neighbouring communities. With its rich history and a commitment to both its clients and employees, Botash has grown into one of the leading drivers of Botswanas growing economy, and with such large resources on its doorstep the firm looks likely to continue supplying its African clients for many years to come. TAB WWW.BOTAsh.BW
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MINING PMI Gold Corporation
PMI Gold Corpo
A hiGh GrADe MulTi-PrO PrODucer eMerGes in W
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MininG
OJecT GOlD WesT AfricA
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PHOTO: NYANI QUARMYNE
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MINING PMI Gold Corporation
In october, PMI Gold Corporation (TSX-V: PMV) (aSX: PVM)the West african focused, ambitious gold junior with four previously mined deposits including two nearterm production high grade projectsmore than tripled the gold resource at its flagship project, obotan, and confirmed high grade intersections which underpin its resource model. on track to complete the projects pre-feasibility study (PfS) in December as TABJ goes to press, followed by a bankable feasibility study (bfS) scheduled for completion in mid-2012 and production in late 2013, its fair to say that we arent dealing with your average junior gold group.
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100 MINING PMI Gold Corporation
PMi GOlDs OBOTAn project, in Ghana, is the near-term production opportunity capturing market attention and the first of three emerging mining centres the company is developing as it goes about becoming a significant West African gold producer. PMI Gold shares rocketed more than 67 per cent when Obotans gold resource raised 270 per cent in October. In summary, the project is now home to: An NI43-101/JORC compliant measured resource estimate of 14.67 million tonnes at 2.66 grams per tonne gold for 1.22 million contained gold ounces; Indicated resources of 27.5 million tonnes at 2.32 grams per tonne gold for 2.00 million gold ounces; and 17.54 million tonnes of inferred resources grading 2.35 grams per tonne gold for 1.29 million contained ounces. The highlights from intersections returned bolstered this surge of investor interest (35 diamond drill holes for 7,614 metres revealing 3.47 grams per tonne gold over 30 metres, and 51.17 grams per tonne gold over eight metres) and the release of the pre-feasibility study will wrap up what continues to be an outstanding development project; now in the hands of the right team to realise its full potential. Add in PMI Golds other assetsincluding additional near-term production opportunities at the Kubi project, 65 kilometres east of Obotan in
the Ashanti gold belt, and the large ground holding along strike at the Asankrangwa beltand the company is sitting on 3.45 million measured and indicated ounces and 1.4 million inferred ounces. Seven years spent acquiring land and exploring in one of the worlds most prolific gold producing regions is about to pay off, and as Managing Director Collin Ellison says, to have PMI Golds ground holding in this region is unusual (530 square kilometres in the Golden Triangle) and having the funding and expertise to develop it to production places PMI Gold in an excellent position for growth.
Outstanding results on track at Obotan

Recent results from Obotan continue to support project robustness in line with PMI Golds plans for a pre-feasibility model of approximately 200,000 ounces per annum. The projects history offers equally good encouragement, and PMI Gold has expanded upon data provided by previous owners, Resolute Mining, who focused on the upper portion of Obotans Nkran deposit and smaller satellite deposits Abore and Adubiaso. Without mining the projects other satellite, the Asuadai deposit, Resolute produced 730,000 ounces at an average grade of 2.2 grams per tonne gold during prices of less than US$350 per ounce. Approximately 590,000 ounces came from Nkran; where over three-
FEBRUARY 2012 The African Business Journal 101
Three Emerging Mining Centres in Ghana

In the heart of one of the worlds most prolic gold producing regions!
OBOTAN: increase in our gold resource to 3.22 Moz Measured & Indicated, 1.29Moz Inferred. Pre-Feasibility underway with completion expected by December 31, 2011; nal feasibility targeted by Q2 2012. A production decision follows with gold production targeted for late 2013. KUBI: 65 km east of Obotan, on strike 15 km south of AngloGold Ashantis 60Moz Obuasi where until 2005 Ashanti mined 59,000oz of gold at 3.65 g/t in two shallow pits. Recent 10,000m shallow auger drilling will be followed up by drilling to identify additional resources. ASANKRANGWA (ASANKO) REGIONAL EXPLORATION PROJECT: aggressive exploration on this and the Ashanti gold belts to locate new economic gold deposits. Drilling will test numerous high priority gold targets with previous discovery holes.
Collin Ellison, Managing Director & CEO Perth, Australia Telephone: +61 (0) 8 6188 7900 Email: info@pmigoldcorp.com www.pmigoldcorp.com
Rebecca Greco, Investor Relations Fig House Communications Toronto, Ontario Telephone: +1 416-822-6483 Email: ghouse@yahoo.com
CANADA TSX.V: PMV ----- Australia ASX: PVM ---- Frankfurt/Berlin PN3N.F
quarters of PMI Golds resource now falls (2.5 million ounces measured and indicated grading 2.54 grams per tonne, and 1.02 million ounces inferred grading 2.54 grams per tonne). Since acquiring the Obotan project at the end of 2006, PMI Gold has completed 225 resource extension, confirmation and infill diamond drill holes for 59,084 metres of drilling, and Ellison says that while these works have continued to target Nkran in particular, plenty of highly prospective exploration upside remains. Resource definition drilling is ongoingaimed at evaluating the ground down to approximately 350 metres below
the surface (or 200 metres below the Resolute open pit) and the latest high grade intersections have confirmed internal continuity. Also, as part of ongoing works at Nkran, PMI Gold plans to test the deeper, down-plunge extensions of mineralisation below the current resource. This will allow for evaluation of future underground potential at the deposit. In addition to drilling within the current exploration programme, is the interpretation of both Resolute and PMI Gold geological, geochemical and geophysical databases to underpin the planned January 2012 quarter revised resource
Why PMi?
PMI Gold is focused on rapidly progressing the Obotan gold project to development, targeting production commencement in late 2013 There it a significant 4.51 million ounce resource at Obotan in place, and the company is targeting further upgrade for feasibility At the Kubi Project, which has an existing resource of 0.35 million ounces, significant upside remains Previous gold mining at Obotan and Kubi provides a major advantage to assist in feasibility studies Three diamond rigs are currently drilling, and the team is expanding its fleet to 5 drill rigs next month Recent drilling has focussed on resource expansion at existing deposits. The focus will now shift to exploration drilling for new discoveries PMI Gold is undervalued relative to its West African gold company peer group The company has a strong balance sheet (US$21.08million circa 30 September 2011) and no debt
estimate (ahead of the bankable feasibility study). This work has enabled PMI Gold to identify further targets in the same multiple parallel gold bearing shear zones which house Obotans four known deposits, and the company states that they now offer an interpreted combined strike length of over 30 kilometres for the project. As is the case for other exploration targets found in both the Kubi project and Asankrangwa project (covering the southern 45 kilometre strike extension at Obotan), the PMI Gold team also plans to carry out sustained drill testing on new areas of encouragement during the 2011
year-end. Activity will begin when two PMI Gold rigs arrive onsitean RC/Diamond and an Air Core/RABand in early 2012 (well-timed for the new resource estimate ahead of the BFS) another RC/Diamond will also make its way over to Obotan. Some 7 kilometres northwest of Obotan on the same north-northeast trending shear zone as Nkran, the un-mined Asuadai deposit offers more strong potential for future discovery and adding to the resource statement. To date, the 17 holes drilled in shallow dipping stacked quartz veins outcropping on a small rise have
incOMinG uPDATes in 2012

Obotan 2011 Q4, Pre-feasibility study report Feasibility study work program 2011 Q4 and beyond, Environment and sociological impact studies 2011 Q4-2012 Q2, Database QA/QC & resources estimation 2011 Q4-2012 Q2, Mine & process design 2012 Q1-2012 Q2, Capex, Opex cost estimates & economics 2012 Q2-end, Feasibility Study Report Kubi 2011 Q4, Review and re-estimation resources 2011 Q4 and beyond, Exploration drilling continues at Dunkwa-Gyimigya, Gyimigya 2012 Q1 and beyond, Exploration drilling at the Kubi & Kubi Forest Reserve (Mining Lease) 2012 Q2, Review & re-estimation resources at the Kubi & Kubi Forest Reserve (Mining Lease)
turned up a flurry of good results (including 24 metres at 2.32 grams per tonne from 108 metres, 7 metres at 3.38 grams per tonne from 71 metres, and 11 metres at 4.33 grams per tonne from 90 metres). Even during tough times for capital raising, PMI Gold has dedicated funds to a significant drill programmea clear sign that this is the company to pick up where Resolute left off (building on a period of mining success for Obotan despite substantially lower gold prices). In addition to taking Obotan to fruition and becoming a gold producer in the process, drilling is ongoing at the Kubi Project where the PMI Gold team intends to commence a pre-feasibil-
ity study during 2012 and swiftly follow Obotan with another potentially company-making asset.
Exploration upside at Kubi

Located 65 kilometres east of Obotan is Kubi, where PMI Gold reports advanced exploration and development potential. It is 15 kilometres south of the AngloGold Ashantis 60 million ounce Obuasi Gold Minethe largest underground mine in West Africa which has been up and in operation for a full 113 yearsand Ashanti previously mined approximately 59,000 ounces of gold at 3.65 grams per tonne from two shallow pits at Kubi 1998 to 2005. Now home to a JORC compliant resource of 0.35 million gold ounces (112,000 ounces mea-
sured; 121,000 ounces indicated; 115,000 ounces inferred), a granted mining lease and plenty of blue sky potential to increase the resource, Kubi has undergone a detailed exploration programme of its own throughout the past year. PMI Gold has carried out drill testing at highly prospective gold anomalous areas, which fall along strike from Kubi and the parallel Ashanti Trend at the companys 513 Prospect, and along strike and 15 kilometres south of Obuasi. Magnetic and radiometric surveying has been run and finished throughout Kubis concessions and main structural controls identified, revealing a number of areas as high priorities for further drill testing. From the intersection of the Ashanti shear zone and Perseus mineralising eastwest structures, to the Dunkwa area alluvial gold and extensive near-surface mineralisation running along 25 kilometres of the Ashanti and Kubi trends, Kubi houses plenty to get excited about. within 15 kilometres of Obotan. Meanwhile, the Southern Asankrangwa is shaping up to become the companys third mining centre (after Obotan and Kubi) where existing exploration facilities have enabled PMI Gold to set up shop and ready for the work ahead. The arrival of new rigs, establishment of the dedicated sample preparation facility, and additions made to the geologist and field personnel onsite each bolster the companys capabilities on the groundand latest reports from management state that the group remains well funded to aggressively progress exploration across entire tenement package, with activity due to ramp-up in 2011-2012.
Ramping up at Asankrangwa (Asanko)

PMI Golds Asankrangwa regional exploration project has shifted from exploring the largely untested 70 kilometre length of the Asankrangwa gold belt, to drilling for new discoveries and following up on drill testing at a number of high priority gold targets; activities planned within the next programme of work. With respect to discovery targets, the team is focused on its ground
Golden advantages: grade, team & ground

As peers and investors alike brace themselves for the imminent announcement of the Obotan
tion and development opportunities in the country, and its land package remains highly prospective. Mines like Obuasi have ensured that existing infrastructure (and interest) are strong, and if the past 12 months are any indication, the PMI Gold team is more than technically, monetarily and strategically capable of carrying out the works necessary (under favourable gold prices) to bring its projects into commercial operation. The October share price hike confirms that investors are starting to catch on to quite how pre-feasibility study and February 2012 revised resource estimate, a mere glance at how PMI Gold measures up to other gold explorer/producers in West Africa shows that when it comes to grade and ground holding, this junior outshines much of the competition. October results have revealed that PMI Gold is relatively higher grade and relatively cheaper on a resource ounce comparison to other listed African gold companies, and as drilling ramps up across the three emerging mining centres, starting with Obotan as the most advanced, rapidly developing mine, theres no telling quite how much the companys resource inventory may be added to during the months to come. Compared with West African peers, PMI Gold sits undervalued on an EV/oz basis. It has one of the larger sized and higher grade gold exploraTABJ thanks Kirsti Mattson, corporate communications and Rebecca J Greco of Fig House Communications (PMI Gold) for their assistance Please visit http://www.pmigoldcorp.com significant a gold producer PMI Gold is becoming; and it wont be long before Obotans development in 2012 and the teams track record in successful exploration fuel mounting attention and more accurate understanding of this highly focused, advanced multi-project emerging West African gold producer. TAB
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andards
110 HEALTHCARE edendale hospital
Thanks to its strong educational tradition and its willingness to lead where others have yet to go, edendale hospital has grown into one of the most respected medical facilities in the South african province of KwaZulu-natal.
eDenDAle hOsPiTAl is a regional- and district-level facility in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, known in medical circles for its post-graduate teaching opportunities across all major medical disciplines. The facility was established in the 1950s and is closely linked to nearby Greys Hospital and Northdale Hospital.
Today, this 900-bed hospital is guided by a vision to be as efficient and as dedicated to its health service as possible. Its mission is to deliver a sustainable, coordinated, integrated and comprehensive health service through its caring, compassionate and motivated workforce. The hospitals management works with members of the local community to design its services and ensure its staff have access to quality training programmes. Since 1994, the hospital has been administered by KwaZulu-Natals Department of Health and is used as a training centre for the College of
Nursing, receiving a number of applicants from across the country. The hospitals core values are based on the southern African philosophy of Ubuntu, as well as a commitment to openness and transparency in the way that the facility is operated.
new hospital. After administrator Dr D.S. Shepstone laid the foundation stone in July 1951, it took just three years to build the seven-story structure, with Edendales first patients admitted in March 1954. Originally the facility was built to accommodate 620 patients, but due to rapid population growth, many more building have been erected on the Edendale site. Today, Edendale is home to professionals from across the medical sphere, with paramedical staff joined at the hospital by physiotherapists, radiographers, medical social workers and dispensary staffs.
A story of strength
In 1855, a Methodist missionary known as Reverend James Allison acquired an area of land on a farm called Welverdient, which was previously owned by Andries Pretorius, where he established his second mission called Edendale. In 1945, the site was chosen to house a
112 HEALTHCARE edendale hospital
service PrOviDeD By eDenDAle hOsPiTAl

General surgery Anaesthetics Obstetrics and gynaecology Medicine Pathology Radiology Orthopaedic surgery Ear, nose and throat Paediatrics Neurosurgery Ophthalmology Psychiatry Urology Community health services Mobile service Nursing education
hockey and golf, and every year a representative from the facility runs in one of two local marathons.
Medical milestones Social staff

As Well As servicing the health needs of the local population, Edendale also provides its staff with a range of social participation activities, from the hospitals own drum majorettes troupe and a successful staff soccer team, to basketball matches against staff at other hospitals and local educational facilities. Doctors who work at the hospital have participated in other sporting activities, including cricket, As well as playing an important role in providing the local population with high standards of care and treatment, Edendale Hospital has also been at the forefront of introducing medical solution to South Africa Throughout its history, the hospital has also demonstrated that rapid growth need not act as a hindrance to good service. It was one of the first South African hospitals to open a post-operative recovery ward through
which all patients pass after surgery and was the first hospital in the country to provide intensive care units for surgical and medical conditions known as 2R. A medical intensive care unit was added in 1974 and eight years later a paediatric surgical intensive care unit was opened. Edendale was also unique in South Africa for introducing the provision of a central sterilising department and a separate burns unit. A new wing was built and opened in 1966, providing an additional eight wards, while in 1968 a new laboratory, stores department and blood bank were built. In 1969, medical and paediatric out patients
departments were added and in 1970 a nearby disability care centre, previously administered by the government, was transferred to the Edendales administration. Edendale Hospital has grown into an essential part of its local community and has provided medical care to thousands of people throughout its history. As it looks towards a healthy future, this facility is likely to continue growing in size and statue, as it gears up to look after future generations. TAB
114
heAlThcAre
nOvO nOrDisk
healthcare heroes
116 HEALTHCARE novo nordisk
Voted the "No 1 Medical Recruitment Company in South Africa 2008, 2009 and 2010" by the industry.
We offer:
Focussed specialised recruitment for the Medical Industry. Our scope of practice covers Medical Sales Representatives, Product Specialists, Product Managers, Pharmacists - Regulatory and Production, CRAs, Nurse Educators and Advisors, Medical Directors, Medical Advisors, General Managers, Business Unit Managers, CEOs.
We are:
Proud to have been providers of Key Staff for Novo Nordisk for the past 25 years.
We have:
A Corporate Social Responsibility Programme, supporting orphans in Cape Town and the Free State, as we are committed to BBBEE.
Gauteng - 011 475 2858 KZN - 021 531 3050 Cape - 021 531 3050 Free State - 011 475 2858 Eastern Cape - 021 531 3050
Thanks to its passion for medical advancement and a strong commitment to its patients, novo nordisk has become a prominent part of africas healthcare landscape.
nOvO nOrDisk hAs been a global leader in diabetes care for more than 88 years. This Danish healthcare company employs more than 29,300 employees in 76 countries and its products are marketed in 179 countries. Along with its focus on diabetes care, the company provides haemophilia care, growth hormone therapy and hormone replacement therapy.
Novo Nordisk first entered the South African market back in 1959 when it became one of its first affiliates outside of Denmark and, from its base in Johannesburg, began to produce insulin vials and anti-infectives. By 1998 the company had moved most of its administration to Sandton and had increased its focus to sub-Saharan Africa. Since 2007, Novo Nordisk South Africa has opened 14 offices across the continent and now has a presence in counties as diverse as Angola, the Comoros, Madagascar and Swaziland, and today employs 112 staff working across the southern part of the continent.
118 HEALTHCARE novo nordisk
superior methods of diabetes prevention, detection and treatment. The company promises to work actively in promoting collaborations between all parties in the health care system and offer products and services in the areas in which it believe it can make a difference. It has contributed to the discovery and development of innovative biological medicines, which have since been made available to patients
A global leader
Novo Nordisk is actively involved in the global fight against diabetes and is driven by its desire to improve the daily lives of people with the condition, as well as expanding the possibilities open to people with haemophilia. Since its Danish founders began their journey in 1923 to change diabetes, the companys history has been defined by a series of medical firsts. At the heart of the company lies a personal passion to improve the well-being of people with chronic illnesses and its commitment to care for the individual led it to become an early adopter of the triple bottom-line approach to business, as it balances its environmental impact, social contribution and financial results. Its vision is to become the worlds leading diabetes care company; a target it intends to reach by aspiring to defeat diabetes by finding
across the world.
Business sense
Novo Nordisk has made a promise to will remain an independent entity, form opting to alliances whenever they serve both its business purpose and its cause. Every day we strive to find the right balance between compassion and competitiveness, the short and the long term, self and commitment to colleagues and society, work and family life, proclaims the company on its website. Along with its rich history, its research has helped led it to discover new products outside the diabetes research field enabling the company to diversify its interests and achieve competitive business results. The company promises to never compromise on quality or its business ethics, thereby fuelling
its growth as a business and delivering competitive financial results.
Customer care
On its websites Novo Nordisk proclaims to operate as an open and honest business that is ambitious, but accountable to all of its partners, patients, staff and shareholders. Today, we have thousands of employees across the world with the passion, the skills and the commitment to continue this journey to prevent, treat and ultimately cure diabetes, the company declares. We offer opportunities for our people to realise their potential, it adds. With a strong driving vision and its deeply set values, Novo Nordisk is a company not afraid to make the big decisions as exhibited by its ability to balance the needs of its patients, employees and shareholders. TAB WWW.nOvOnOrDisk.cA
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reserve tea
PrODucTs & services
WAri GrOuP
am triumph
122 PRODUCTS & SERVICES Shamwari Group
With africas urban structures increasing on a daily basis, its always important to remember the rich and diverse landscapes that nature has provided. Shamwari Group enjoys protecting and maintaining some of the most picturesque game reserves in the country, while also inviting people from all over the world to experience the magic.
The DevelOPMenT Of South Africa over the last ten years has been a hugely positive and galvanising agenda for the whole country. Preserving its natural heritage, however, has also never been more important. As we boldly venture further into the 21st Century everyone is curious about where were goingfortunately, Shamwari Group are still very interested in where weve come from.
of African parks and made them desirable destinations for the more adventurous traveller. Shamwari Group has a rare cocktail of intriguing offerings for its many thousands of visitors. Its holidays are not only hugely exotic, but also educational, which is great news for families, couples and everyone that has an interest in wildlife and history. For many years the company has passionately developed its parks, enabling animals, plants and ecosystems to flourish in their natural environment. All these remarkable areas of natural beauty have their own unique individual characteristics and have proved incredibly popular for decades.
On safari
Safari holidays have been particularly soughtafter since the emergence of affordable air travel and films like Born Free, which raised awareness
Indeed, even in tough times Shamwari Group is able to rely on the constant allure of its resources. Its stunningly beautiful big cat safari venues are available in Southern Africa, Western Cape, Eastern Cape and the Kruger National Park Area.
Jungle out there

After many successful years of trading alongside another company Shamwari Group has recently undergone a transformation and is now known as the Shamwari Hospitality Group. Sales and Marketing Manager Tom Jager has overseen the enterprises restructure and realises the importance of progression, while also staying true to Shamwaris proud traditions. Weve actually had to refocus on the tour operators, look at the inbound operators and generally refresh our approach, which has been great for the company and the product as a whole, he enthuses. We are now representing the product on ground level, as well as marketing it both internationally and domestically. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve stretches to 54,000 hectares and its vast plains are home to the famous big fivelions, tigers, elephants, rhinos and cheetahsand therefore a big hit with tourists. The company also takes tremendous pride in its famous, luxurious and charismatic
lodges, which visitors can retire to after a long day of safari. We call it the Arizona of Southern Africa because its got a similar climate and geography. Visitors are also introduced to the history, including when the English surfaced in the 1900s, Jager explains. There is also information about the ancient san people that lived in the area 7,000 years ago, the typography and the vegetation that makes this place truly unique. In addition to the big five, visitors will be able to see the white lion; a genetic kick back of the foggy lion, with whom it combines to capture prey. Its not only large creatures, however, that Shamwari Group concentrates on. Smaller creatures are also very importantlike the flat backed dung beetle. This extraordinary little creature rolls up its dung to the size of a cricket ball and lays the eggs within it. The larvae then feed here in their own acclimatised little geographic ball.
tracks, to examining droppings of different animals. Its been very successful and we actually learn a great deal from the kids themselves. They provide fascinating insights, because they view information from a different perspective, says Jager. The company also has a student program, which offers gap-year opportunities for the international market especially from the UK. The selected group come out to Shamwari Game Reserve and learn all the intricate mechanisms of the wildlife and conservation effort, while also learning from Shamwaris 300-strong workforce. Meanwhile, in order to survive the global downturn Shamwari Group has taken measures to ensure they remain competitive in the marketplace. We listened to the industry and it was telling us that we had to review our rates, which weve done twice this year, says Jager. Along with tactical marketing initiatives, aimed at stimulating more interest in the market place, the company is also particularly focussed on markets in the UK, South America, Germany and of course Australia. Working in a place with so many incredible horizons, the company is naturally excited about exploring a few new ones in the future. TAB WWW.shAMWAriGrOuP.cOM
Park life
The compendium of exciting activities for kids has also proved very popular for Shamwari Game Reserve visitors. The younger explorers get equipped with a little backpack, before being immersed in the unforgettable bush experience. In the lodge itself there are plenty of activities to keep them occupied, from identifying bugs and
sPAr GrOu
Shine like a Spar
PrODucTs & services
uP
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130 PRODUCTS & SERVICES Spar Group
your friendly neighbourhood Spar shop has been a regular feature on the streets of South africa for over half a century. The famous red logo has become a byword for quality, value and convenience
When yOu neeD to grab a loaf of bread, birthday card, football, biro, sweets, bottle of milk and, who knows, something a bit stronger for the evening, there arent many stores where you could tick off all those items. Spar is one of the few places that cater for all tastes and even the most abstract shopping lists. Ever since the doors of its first store opened Spar has strived to think
about what is best for its customers.
Top of the shops

Operating on a national scale with an instantly recognisable logo is worth its weight in gold. Over the last 50 years the unmistakable Spar sign has been a reassuring red and white beacon on the landscape for its loyal patrons, many of whom have relied on it for generations. Since 1963 people have recognised the Spar brand as a symbol of convenience and reliability. Its independently owned stores are a regular sight in South Africa and throughout the continent. Although the badge has remained steadfastly
unchanged, the company has always moved with the times, tracking the habits, needs and expectations of the people it serves. In total there are 850 branches (employing 70,000 people), with many more planned in the next few years. There are three types of store within the impressive Spar repertoireQuickSpar, Spar and SuperSpar. Regular Spar stores are in the region of 1,000 square metres and are essentially small supermarkets, whereas QuickSpar stores boast 500 square and are more like a convenience store. Independently owned, the branches are often run by local people and therefore retain that essential family ethos for which Spar is very proud.
Indeed, in the competitive arena of domesticity and helping households to run smoothly, Spar has got it made. Marketing Manager Mike Prentice explains: We offer all the departments; butchery, bakery and grocery lines, often hosting anything between ten and 20 thousand different groceries. In addition there are online services, which have become increasingly popular. These major outlets have grown over the last few years and Mike is optimistic about continuing progress. SuperSpar is successfully competing head-to-head with the major supermarket chain stores in South Africa. As a result we now require
132 PRODUCTS & SERVICES Spar Group
that bigger stores contain at least 1500 square metres of selling space, and many of them, up to 3000, he enthuses.
multinational chains. I think the perception of Spar is of a very professionally run supermarket group, says Prentice. Spar stores are currently sitting pretty among the best performing retailers in the country, with a consistently impressive turnover. Prentice thinks that regional knowledge in addition to the individuality of each store is pivotal to the brands enduring popularity and longevity of its presence. The Spar stores are owned by local people and that engenders trust in customers. The own-
More in store
Reputation for Spar has been an integral part of its rise to prominence. The company is keen that South Africans view the franchise as a good facilitator of independent business, with a reliable and versatile outlook. Spar gives the smaller business people, with big ideas, the chance to compete against large
come to fruition during each chapter of the last quarter of a century. The company will also continue to expand enthusiastically across its neighbouring states. It is currently well represented in Botswana, Zambia and Namibia, and a historic first store has been opened in Mozambique with more to follow. Meanwhile, discussions are at an advanced stage for some exciting ventures in Angola. The Spar Group will continue to make its mark and is always keen to expand wherever possible. I think any country that provides a fairly established independent retail sector, could be an opportunity for us. As a wholesaler, we are very keen to establish partners with facilities like retail parks. Were always interested in effective collaborations with innovators, Prentice says. ers get very involved with the schools, churches, charities, and generally like to have a positive impression on the community, enthuses Prentice. This connection is a distinct advantage for us and something that our rivals struggle to match. Were continually looking for more projects, all of which fall into the same Spar model of helping and coordinating the efforts of independent retailers, he adds. As the world changes beyond recognition, it is sometimes reassuring to know that certain services will stay true to traditions. For this historic store its a case of so Spar, so good. TAB WWW.sPArinc.cOM
Shelf space
These solid foundations prepared the company well for the global financial crisis in 2008 and, after overcoming a small amount of turbulence, Spar Group has pursued its aim to keep doubling the business every five yearsa target that has
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Civ
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136 PROPERTY Profica
by utilising its international experience and blending it with an understanding of local cultures, South african firm Profica has grown into a pioneering force within the continents construction sector.
in The sPAce of seven short years professional project and construction management company Profica has blossomed into a leading player in Africas building industry.
From its base in South Africa, this construction firm provides stand-alone projects to clients across the continent, as well as construction and development management services across both the public and private sectors. The company, which has been accredited as a level one B-BBEE contributor, was formed in late 2004 by three friends who meet years earlier while studying at university. Following university we went our separate ways and worked as civil engineers for various profession project management companies around the world, says co-founder and company director Shaylagh Thiel.
Upon returning to South Africa we got together and utilised our international professional experience to set up the company. Thiel says he believes that the international experience of its management board is what makes it stand apart from other South African project management companies, while its team of professionally-accredited and highly-skilled project managers have helped it deliver highprofile projects in countrys as diverse as Libya, Nigeria and Zimbabwe. We have worked across a range of sectors, from residential to retail, and weve been involved in the construction of large shopping
centres, commercial office buildings and industrial warehouses, remarks Thiel. Weve also built schools, public hospitals and structures for pharmaceutical sector. In 2011, Profica was named South Africas number one project management company by Professional Management Review, which Thiel describes as a great reflection on the firms work as the award comes directly from our industry and the people we work with most.
projects, as well as delivering hotel developments and large retail centres to various big name clients.
Adapting to change
Proficas innovative approach has seen it take a leading role in bringing sustainability to the regions construction industry. A year or two ago we didnt have any green building rating tools in South Africa and we had to use rating tools from the UK and Australian, notes Thiel. We were on the working group that put together the first commercial building rating tool launched in South Africa, and we were involved in putting together a similar rating system for the retail sector, for which one of our developments was used as a pilot project. We are currently on the panel that is overseeing the development of a residential sector rating tool, while some of our project managers have been accredited as green building professionals, he adds. The pilot project Profica worked on that was used in the development of a South African green building tool for the retail sector was Gugulethu Square. This bespoke 30,000 square metre shopping centre, built in one of Cape Towns townships, has proven to be a very
A proud portfolio
Highlights within Proficas project portfolio include an industrial development for Sonae Novobord one of the largest wood-based panel producers in Africa. We worked on the expansion to its entire plant in White River, Mpumalanga, which was an intricate project that included the procurement and installation of the warehouses press line. The development involved close to 5,000 containers coming from various parts of the world with all the pieces of kit required for the project. Profica has also provided services for Nampak, the giant South African bottling company, for whom it is currently installing a new cullet plant. In the commercial office buildings sector the firm has worked on a number of prestigious
successful project and has helped Profica build up its sustainability credentials.
off very nicely in the past four years. From its head office in South Africa, Profica is today managing projects in 13 separate nations across the continent. As the company continues to build up its African footprint it is gaining valuable experience from working in new and challenging markets. The most important thing about working in another country, not just Africa, is to understand the local legal frameworks and any possible local elephant traps, Thiel remarks. In order to overcome these difficulties the company often opts to enter into joint ventures with local partners.
Out of [South] Africa

The name Profica was chosen by the companys founders as it brings together the words professional, project, management and, most evidently, Africa. For the first couple of years of the business we pretty much focused on the South African market as we built up relationships with various clients, says Thiel. But our original business plan was to work across the African continent and that side of the business has certainly taken
ZuluArchitecturalDesigners
Defining Innovation
Zulu Architectural Designers was formed in 2003 by privately practicing professionals in the construction industry, specializing in areas of architecture, construction management& client representation. Through broader and in-depth knowledge of architecture and construction, we handle projects affairs from idea to execution. Our activities revolve around surveying clients needs, articulating their expectations, and setting up priorities to ensure production of a sound master plan. The company is envisioned by professionals with various skills input but one interest.
120 SEVENTH AVENUE, EDENVALE, EKURHELENI, GAUTENG 1609
TEL: 011 452 6220
WWW.ZULUARCHITECTURALDESIGNERS.CO.ZA
These partners bring local expertise to a project, while we bring our professional experience of processes and procedures, says Thiel. In Africa there are not too many project management companies that have the experience we have, and weve got some great framework agreements with large multinational firms in place, whereby we manage all of their projects in Africa. We spent a lot of last year working on a business development plan, as well as targeting projects for this year, of which weve been appointed on at least 60 per cent, he reveals. Moving forward, the company is looking to continue building its team of professional, as it
continues setting the standard in terms of its business offering. We will continue pushing into the African continent, while remaining the number one project management company in South Africa, and we will certainly try to establish ourselves as the number one company in Africa, says Thiel. Following a quieter year in 2011, during which Profica consolidated and looked ahead, the company is now gearing up what should become a very busy 2012. TAB WWW.PrOficA.cO.ZA
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TWin ciTy
City slickers
144 PRODUCTS & SERVICES Twin City
for over 25 years property developers Twin City have been transforming the Southern african landscape with modern, innovative and awe-inspiring buildings. as its name suggests, flair and professionalism have always been identical targets and, so far, that bond has never been broken.
While MichAel JAcksOn was selling millions of records and Olympian Carl Lewis was breaking them, the gloriously-named Twin City Development Ltd also began its remarkable journey. Back in that seminal year of 1984 Arnold Pistoriusstill the managing director of the company was busy plotting to shake up the shopping mall development industry.
Out went beige, boredom and bleak and in came futuristically designed, interactive and exciting structures, which made people want to stay.
Centres of excellence
Since those halcyon days in the eighties, Twin City has completed all manner of different projects, but its main focus has continued to be the development and letting of cutting-edge shopping centres throughout Southern Africa. With many impressive ventures completed Twin City has transformed the shopping centre experience for millions of people throughout Southern Africa. The scope, industriousness and positive nature of its portfolio has ensured a reputation in the industry that is second to none,
setting the standard for the continents retailrelated structures. Its modern ethos and desire to keep improving and breaking new ground has given rise to a unique architectural fingerprint, while the famous double-towered logo has become a distinguished mark of quality. Today, 1000s of customers are shopping in Twin City malls every day. All Twin City projects are founded and developed in line with the companys passionate longterm vision to create retail centres that make a positive contribution to the community, many years after being completed. Indeed, the structures not only create spectacular focus points for communities, but also provide secure jobs, outstanding facilities and enjoyable areas to socialise.
The sheer variety of shops, from cutting-edge electronics to fashion stores, not to mention the veritable feast of cafes and restaurants, has ensured the versatility that is at the bvery heart of what the company strives for. Whether popping in to grab some lunch or spending the day leisurely perusing the endless temptations, Twin City shopping centres guarantee that there is something for everyone. The companys brand always has and always will be one of inclusivity.
Duty malls
The Twin City manifesto, which has become an integral part of the Twin City culture, demonstrates its commitment to high standards. Initially, it ensures that clients can conduct a profitable
146 PRODUCTS & SERVICES Twin City
shopping destination as possible. Many of the centres also provide a crche service, where enthusiastic staff will happily entertain the children, while parents escape for some well-deserved retail therapy. Some of the extraordinary shopping centres which are playing a pivitol role in their communities are Twin City Burgersfort, Groblersdal, Twin City Bushbuckridge, Paledi Mall (Mankweng), Blue Haze Mall (Hazyview), Twin City Mall (Heidedal) and Wonderboom Nissan.
Building extensions
As well as always looking for new opportunities Twin City prides itself on the ability to recreat business and this is achieved by providing the best possible location, visibility, access and flow. Subsequently a plan is drawn up for the appearance, facilities and objectives of each individual mall, ensuring that maximum potential is delivered. A carefully orchestrated development strategy ensures that the magnificent structures open according to set deadlines. Once completed, the centres are free of crime, where safety, cleanliness and the enjoyment and convenience of customers, are a major priority. All Twin City malls are also planned in such a way that there will always be a parking space for every customer, as close to their existing centres with exciting additional features. The recent extension to the Blue Haze shopping centre in Hazyview is a good example of how a centre continues to evolve. An extra 7000 square metres, an improved taxi rank and better traffic flow has resulted in a greater variety of shops, more customers and even greater job prospects for the local people. Twin City is not only concerned with leaving a lasting legacy through its myriad shopping centres. It also has a number of non-profitable environmental and cultural projects which are changing lives every day. The company has even established a
Leon Jacobs Architects

is a company based in Johannesburg, South Africa with an affiliated office in Windhoek, Namibia. The company has 23 years experience and is currently engaged in projects within South Africa, Namibia, Mozambique and Mauritius. The different building projects includes: - Shopping centres - Offices - Hotels - Hospitals - Universities - Housing - Conference centres - Interiors - Landscaping
phone: +27 11 487 2345 mobile: +27 82 550 1065 email: leon@designretail.co.za
disadvantaged preschool at some of their centres. These facilities aim to enhance childrens selfesteem, increase their learning ability, help them to form successful relationships and encourage them to adopt a positive attitude towards their lives. Another project close to Twin Citys heart is the preservation of wildlife. Last year it successfully delivered in excess of 60 animals to the wild life sanctuary close to Vilancoulos Mozambique. It is one of many ventures the company is involved with which focuses on re-populating local wildlife. It is this approach to youth, the future and a responsibility for the people it serves that has made Twin City one of the most admired
companies in the business. After so many years of changing the way retail centres look, feel and function, its no wonder Twin City are still top of the shops! TAB WWW.TWinciTy.cO.ZA
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AfricAn Business

february 2012 Volume 3 Issue 2

Business Small company focus

politics Youssou NDour

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