THE Coega Development Corporation (CDC) has been nominated as a finalist in the 2018 Absa Business Day Supplier Development Awards which will take place in Parktown, Johannesburg, for the first time, on May 23.
Situated in the Eastern Cape, the CDC has consistently been flying the province’s flag high with three prestigious award nominations since the start of this year, despite the tough economic conditions faced by the country.
“Recognition by the South African captains of industry goes a long way to demonstrate the CDC’s capabilities and expertise in supplier development. Working together with the SMME’s to develop the Special Economic Zone (SEZ), Coega has become the jewel of South Africa and is well recognised as a preferred investment destination and a gateway to African markets and the world,” said Dr Ayanda Vilakazi, CDC’s head of marketing, brand and communications.
“CDC is also one of the partners for government in implementing the country’s infrastructure development and maintenance programme, worth over R1 trillion.”
The CDC has been nominated in the category for “innovation as leaders in job creation through supplier development”. The organisation is among the top 20 shortlisted in the country from over 400 entries.
“As an empowerment-driven organisation, CDC is conscious of the power of the small business sector in terms of job creation and its contribution to economic development,” said Unathi Maholwana, CDC SMME programme manager.
“Supplier development is a crucial component of South Africa’s economic growth and transformation that when done properly, it leads to sustainable business, genuine empowerment and positive benefits for various stakeholders.”
