TASEZ recognised as an ‘exemplary project’
The Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone’s efforts to grow and transform South Africa’s manufacturing sector has been acknowledged by two significant role players in the built environment space. TASEZ was honoured as a state-owned entity that implemented infrastructure projects timeously at the inaugural Built Environment Recognition Awards held in Durban on Thursday, 7 December 2023 under the theme “Road to Professional Registration”. The award, hosted by the Council for the Built Environment and the Construction Education Training Authority, recognised the efforts TASEZ made to establish and develop the special economic zone in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. From the sod-turning ceremony overseen by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 5 November 2019 to the start of production on Ford’s Next-Generation Rangers on 15 November 2022, TASEZ has been a case study for infrastructure development in South Africa. “The awards recognise outstanding achievements in engineering, architecture, urban planning, construction, and related fields,” the CEO of the Council for the Built Environment Dr Msizi Myeza explained. “They promote innovative and sustainable practices in the built environment sector while showcasing exemplary projects and individuals as role models for future initiatives.” In expressing his delight at the accolade, TASEZ chair Lionel October said: “We are determined to make sure TASEZ delivers on its mission to be a catalyst for employment, transformation, socio-economic development and industry growth.” The secret to establishing a successful SEZ was to have a strong executive management team in place, October added. Based in the automotive hub of the City of Tshwane, TASEZ, Africa’s first automotive city, aims to attract automotive manufacturers and suppliers, providing a world-class hub with bespoke facilities and services. TASEZ sees itself as “shaping the future of automotive excellence” as it helps the South African automotive industry on its path to transform the sector by attracting investments; and becoming more inclusive and more sustainable.