Visiting Machine Tools Africa, Production Technologies Association of South Africa (PtSA) CEO, Tapiwa Samanga says South Africa’s manufacturing sector is alive and growing and this is demonstrated by the Machine Tools Africa expo, currently taking place at the Expo Centre in Nasrec, Johannesburg from the 21 to 24 May.

The PtSA promotes and supports the tool and die, mould and special machining industries in South Africa to ensure the growth and development of the county’s manufacturing sector.

“Tooling has a major input into the manufacturing sector. An expo such as Machine Tools Africa showcases the calibre of equipment – and technology – available to local manufacturers in this country, hence supporting the sector and advancing manufacturing,” he explains.

The viewing of the equipment also gives manufacturers an indication of where the industry is heading.

“It is important to know what developments are taking place in the industry, for manufacturers to plan for the future.”

In addition, the Machine Tools Africa expo invests in young people with a skills day on Thursday, 23 May. It also invites students to the expo.

Since 2010 the PtSA with funding from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) has run training and skills development programmes.

“However, 30 years into democracy there are still too many young people who have never heard of tooling – they are not aware of how things are made,” says Samanga.

“Initiatives such as Machine Tools Africa skills development day and its special access to students are key in promoting the industry and educating young people.”

He says this is critical if the country is to have a strong manufacturing sector going forward.

“Young people need to be educated about the industry and encouraged to enter it if we are to be competitive in the future,” he concludes.

Ayender Makhuvela, Deputy Director, Department of Trade Industry and Competition (DTIC) and Lungiswa Gxowa, Deputy Director, Department of Trade Industry and Competition (DTIC) met with Tapiwa Samanga at the show to view the latest products and technology on display.