The Northern Cape private sector conference took place in Upington and ended on the 26th November. The two-day conference was hosted by SABCOHA and about 30 chief executives and operations managers of independently managed business operations and employer organisations were invited to participate.

In addition to understanding provincial priorities, high-level bilaterals between business and government leaders at a district level have been structured into the programme in an effort to bridge the gap between strategy development and implementation. Copies of the NSP have been posted to conference delegates.

Widespread consultations and stakeholder visits conducted since February 2008 provide much of the content and context needed for the conference. However, to build and expand thereon, SABCOHA will be conducting telephonic assessments (new and follow-up) among some 15 medium and large companies and/or operations selected from across the province. The objectives of the assessment include testing readiness and preparedness for meeting the aim contained in the NSP; scoping development/community funding commitments/priorities; verifying social networks; contributing to identifying gaps in service delivery.

The results, findings and conclusions have been published in a 40-page report that was circulated to conference delegates as an additional contribution to understanding the context and business culture. This is neither a review nor audit of workplace programmes. Selected respondents will be requested to participate in due course.

A SABCOHA Northern Cape steering committee was established to provide direction and support during the lead up to the private sector conference. The committee comprises the following individuals:

• Sharon Steyn, Nocci Kimberley;
• Tom Duvenhage, Agri Noord-Kaap;
• Elder Mosia, De Beers Kimberley;
• Jomo Kwadi, Hotazel Manganese Mine;
• Anel Marais, Kumba Iron Ore; and
• Lesley Nugent, Nocci Upington.

A SABCOHA national advisory committee was also established to ensure additional oversight and leadership.

Click here to read a summary of the conference:sabcoha_nc_private_sector_conference_conference_report2

Click here to view a survey of Northern Cape businesses that was released at the conference: northern_cape_reportnov08

Conference presentations:

4_zeros_brad_mears_english

calibre_dr_eric_hefer

developing_strategy_liesel_kostlich

frances_baard_district_commission

kgalagadi_district_commission

namakwa_district_commission

nc_psp_n_mazibuko

prevention_track_1

prevention_track_2

research_me_human_rights

siyanda_district_milly_cloete

siyanda_district_commission

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