Manufacturing remains a key focus as Africa strives towards increasing industrialisation, and it will be under the spotlight at this year’s Manufacturing Indaba. The continent holds abundant potential, talent and untapped resources. Natural regional resources and challenges have led the people towards ingenuity and innovation that remain unmatched globally. The creation of unique technologies and solutions is a hallmark of African industry as a collective. Further to this, the continent has an industrious population, and the people are keen to work.
Manufacturing Indaba is set for 15 and 16 July this year at the SCC in Johannesburg.
There is a great need for development and investment in the manufacturing industry across the continent to bring homegrown, advanced technology to the population at large through commercialisation and optimisation. Predictions indicate that the combined GDP of African countries is expected to reach $29 trillion by the year 2050. With their unique talents, African people need capital and infrastructure to realise their ideas and innovation on a wider scale. The participation and growth of the African manufacturing industry in global trade and commerce can only be achieved through sustained investment and development, from local and international sources.
Manufacturing Indaba, taking place this year on 15 and 16 July at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, will explore a range of enabling factors to advance manufacturing across the continent and open gateways to new markets and opportunities.
Energy
Every industry needs energy to function on a limited energy reserve. The development of energy infrastructure across Africa, including the deployment of clean and sustainable energy solutions, efficient transmission and distribution and increased access to electricity are paramount to the progress of the manufacturing industry in Africa.
Trade tariffs
A review of the various trade and commerce tariffs in place across Africa is needed to develop more investment-friendly incentives. We must learn from the past: During the 1980s, when much of the world was advancing industrialisation, African tariffs were as high as 15% on average, raising barriers to investment and commerce. Furthermore, investors need to be assured of the protection of assets and capital to encourage investment into Africa for the development of the continent. The recently adjusted American tariffs have changed the trading landscape for many African countries.
Skills development
Every country needs a robust system of skills development and higher education to increasingly attract students to pursue higher studies. According to the African Economic Outlook Organisation, 70% of Africa’s youth live on less than $2 per day. Government subsidies and the issuing of student visas with attractive packages can help to promote education and skills development across the continent.
Sustainability
Often caught in the whirlwind of fast-paced development, leaders may forget to consider the longevity and sustainability of mega-projects. It remains crucial that all investment flows into Africa are used in a sustainable model of development, to benefit present and future generations.
Diversity in the workforce
The African continent is home to many diverse ethnic groups. To place the African manufacturing industry on an even footing with the rest of the world, and to get the continent up to speed with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, inclusivity, diversification and non-discrimination need to be prioritised in the workforce across all industry sectors.
Partnerships and teamwork
Uplifting the African manufacturing industry will require the public and private sectors to work hand in hand to drive the engine of development in the same direction, towards progress. No other industries can compare in terms of the returns and benefits that come with manufacturing. A progressive outlook, focused on the industrial development of the continent, is essential.
The Manufacturing Indaba remains the most prestigious and informative manufacturing event. In sub-Saharan Africa The conference has evolved annually, enabling valuable business connections, tackling challenges, promoting new opportunities and opening new markets and exploring challenges and opportunities to promote innovation in manufacturing operations.
For more information and to attend this year, visit: https://manufacturingindaba.co.za/
