Waloni Industrial, a Krugersdorp based manufacturing company was voted the best stand for exhibiting the best model display in the William Osborn Hall, at the 56th Copperbelt Mining and Agricultural Commercial Show (CACSS) in Kitwe, Zambia. Waloni Industrial was part of the twenty-one companies from South Africa, which participated in the CACSS to showcase their products and services for the mining and agricultural sectors.
Companies exhibiting at the CACSS were assisted by the Department of Trade and Industry (the dti), through the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance Scheme (EMIA). The scheme is responsible for developing export markets for South African products and services and to recruit foreign direct investment into South Africa.
The Marketing Manager for Waloni Industrial, Mr Stephan Mostert said that their product ‘sureguide’, was a conveyor belt tracking system designed to respond instantly to the misalignment of the belts, by guiding back the belt to the centre of the frame.
“Our product was voted based on innovation, durability, presentation and value for money. We have received enquiries from local mining companies to which we will be sending our product, so it could be tested against local conditions. From then onwards, we will be following-up for possible collaborations,” said Mostert.
Prothane Industrial was voted in second position for both the best foreign exhibitor and best model in the William Osborn hall. Mimic Components that manufactures an early warning system that remotely monitors pump stations for possible failures was voted in third position.
The Director responsible for Export Promotions at the dti, Dr Julius Nyalunga said that the Expo was a resounding success.
“During our stay in Zambia, we managed to hold bilateral meetings with various stakeholders. Together with Deputy Minister Thabethe, we met with the Mayors of the cities of Ndola and Kitwe and the local Chamber of Commerce. We also had interactions with South African companies doing business in Zambia, and the feedback is that Zambia is the place to be. The rapid growth of its economy and its close proximity to our region makes it a lucrative country to partner with,” said Nyalunga.
He added that the exercise had been most beneficial, more importantly to emerging exporters whom before this excursion had no existing experience of venturing into foreign markets. Nyalunga said that he had interviewed all the companies that participated in this year’s Expo, and all had managed to secure successful leads.
“Most of the companies had successful requests from different stakeholders with the aim of providing some of the products they have been exhibiting. Another important factor is that our companies have also identified local suppliers with whom they could collaborate in introducing their products to the Zambian market,” he concluded.
Enquiries:
Sidwell Medupe, Departmental Spokesperson
Cell: 079 492 1774
Tel: 012 394 1650
E-mail: MSMedupe@thedti.gov.za
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