Electronics and ICT

The fairly embryonic Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector in the Eastern Cape has significant development possibilities. Telecommunications access and computer literacy are increasing; and the quality of the province’s new information technology (IT) graduates is reputed to be excellent. Three-quarters of new IT graduates would prefer to stay in the province if work was available.

An exciting development is the Nelson Mandela Bay Technology Hub, initiated and championed by ECDC, both in terms of financial support and technical assistance. This is a division of the Eastern Cape IT Initiative (ECITI), a multi-faceted programme focused on providing support to SMMEs in ICT and related industries. This support is through the identification of key competencies within the focus area being developed in the province where the Hub is located, and which is in accordance with local and provincial economic growth and development strategies. As such, the Hub comprises an incubator for the growth and development of Eastern Cape’s SMMEs in the ICT sectors. In 2006/7, the Hub became an actualised entity with the appointment of a dedicated CEO, as well as a supporting steering committee. The committee, which incorporates representatives from the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, Volkswagen SA, Seda and Nafcoc, will act as a de facto advisor overseeing the project. The Hub has received funding from the Department of Trade and Industry of R9-million, with an additional R4.5-million being invested by the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality.

EXISTING OPPORTUNITIES:

• Automotive electronics: Manufacture of electronic systems and control modules, navigation systems, instruments.
• Consumer electronics: TV, radio and communications assembly in IDZs for export.
• IT hardware: CD, cell phone manufacture.
• IT training: Offering international training based on strong skills base & cost competitiveness.
• Machine tools: Manufacture of control systems and components.
• Software development: Niche software development by IT specialists, eg finance, Internet sales
• Technology incubator: Support for IT & Internet entrepreneurs through a technology park, supported by a university ICT faculty.
• Telecommunications: SME opportunities for call centres.