As the Electrical Engineering and Allied Industries Association (EEAIA) celebrates its ninetieth anniversary, the industry has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting member associations.

During the ninetieth anniversary breakfast on November 3, EEAIA chairperson Rouane Herselman discussed the evolution of the association, highlighting its contribution in areas such as technical standards and skills development.

He highlighted the challenging realities facing the South African manufacturing sector, pointing out that the country’s manufacturing sector recorded a 4.3% year-on-year decrease in output in August.

Herselman explained that issues such as high electricity costs, unreliable infrastructure, logistics bottlenecks and competition from imports were placing pressure on local manufacturers.

Acknowledging the recent announcement by the US government of its intention to exclude South Africa as a beneficiary of the African Growth and Opportunity Act as from January 1, 2027, he emphasised the importance of localisation and transparent procurement.

He also acknowledged the importance of the energy transition for the sector, noting that it presented an opportunity for local manufacturers to supply relevant infrastructure.

Additionally, he noted that mining automation also provided an opportunity for the manufacturing sector.

“These are fields in which our association leaders understand the work that can add real value, but opportunity will not automatically become local manufacturing. We [need] reliable quality, technical innovation, investment and collaboration.”

With this in mind, Herselman outlined commitments made by the EEAIA.

This includes defending and developing the country’s manufacturing capability, as well as maintaining technical excellence through standards, certification, product safety and quality.

Additionally, Herselman emphasised the importance of establishing a skills pipeline.

“Let us honour 90 years of electrical excellence by committing ourselves to the next chapter. Not merely keeping the lights on but building the industry that powers Africa's future,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of Southern Africa (Seifsa) CEO Tafadzwa Chibanguza congratulated the EEAIA on its anniversary and reaffirmed Seifa’s commitment to supporting member associations.

“On behalf of Seifsa, I congratulate the EEAIA,” said Chibanguza.