The Newcastle Sakekamer is an organisation which constantly seeks ways to improve the local business sector.
Looking at the development of Newcastle, Newcastle Sakekamer hosted a business breakfast at Tramonto Boutique Hotel on Thursday, January 30.
“The business breakfast forms part of an initiative by the Newcastle Sakekamer, where we hold an event on a monthly basis. This is to show members what is going on in town, address relevant issues and network,” says Henry van der Linde, Newcastle Sakekamer’s chairperson.
Contributing to the event as the guest speaker, was Newcastle Municipality’s former director or Economic Development, Ferdi Alberts.
Looking at the local economy, Alberts explains Newcastle has faced various economic challenges, such as the closure of Siltech, SA Calcium Carbide and the rubber division of Karbochem. He also highlighted the challenges ArcelorMittal is currently facing.
However, while these closures have had a negative impact on the town, not all is lost. Alberts claims the clothing industry currently employs approximately 3000 people.
Furthermore, he highlights that the promise of a mall in Madadeni, as well as the construction of two new hospitals being in pipeline, shows that there is light at the end of the tunnel for Newcastle.
As the Newcastle business sector overcomes its various obstacles, Alberts believes there is still potential and opportunities within the Newcastle community. He encourages business owners to be part of the solution which uplifts the community.
Following his discussion, Sakekamer members had the opportunity to network and socialise with each other, looking at ways at how they can enhance the business sector.
