17 September 2021

AfriSam Concrete Training makes big impact to SMMEs

Submitted by: Archy Hlahla
AfriSam Concrete Training makes big impact to SMMEs

09 September 2021- South Africa’s leading cement and construction materials manufacturer, AfriSam, hosted 60 SMMEs from different communities surrounding its Jukskei and Eikenhof quarries for a 1-day training session under the tittle: ‘Correct use of cement in concrete, plaster and mortar applications’. The training program is important for SMMEs as correct use of cement in construction projects has the potential to improve profitability and deliver quality structures for the SMME construction company. The training was held at the AfriSam Business Development Centre in Roodepoort.

This training forms part of the company’s Enterprise and Supplier Development support program provided to SMMEs. The skills and services offered by the AfriSam Business Development Centre are meant to empower previously disadvantaged businesses by equipping the owners with knowledge and expertise to improve how they render products and services for various construction projects.

“With this training, we hope that small businesses can get better value out of the materials they purchase and deliver greater quality and be able to compete with big companies for bigger projects”, says Betty Masinge, Community Development Manager, AfriSam.

Originally from Limpopo, Percy Baloyi, director of Greengate Projects, a company that specializes in construction of concrete columns, slabs, installation of staircases and building of houses says he now understands the different cement types, strengths usage and mixing ratios. He plans to use the knowledge to manufacture quality bricks and slabs to pave the dusty roads in his hometown.

AfriSam’s Technical Trainer, Mr Leslie Mchunu facilitated the training which focused on the correct mix and use of cement, concrete, plaster, and mortar applications to achieve superior quality in construction projects.

Peter Molete, founder of Molete Projects and Services which specializes in building construction and civil works has been attending various AfriSam training programmes since2019. He has undergone several teachings and strongly believes in the company’s slogan “Creating Concrete Possibilities” because of how he has been empowered, enabling him and his business to gain worthy opportunities.

“When I started my business, I had limited skills, no funds, no mentor, all I had was a dream. I have gained invaluable knowledge and expertise through the AfriSam training programmes and my skill set now range from corporate branding, marketing and financial management to brick laying, paving, plastering and now the correct use of cement in concrete, plaster and mortar applications”, Peter states.

Thabisile Jabu Magoda founder of NTN Magoda General Trading believes that her new skillset will enable her company to build better, stronger lasting structures and has put her in a better position to compete and perform in a previously male dominated environment/industry.

At the end of the program SMMEs received certificates to prove that they have basic knowledge about cement, aggregates, and ready mix. Based on performance, a few will be selected to develop accredited learnings through the Concrete Cement Institute of South Africa, fully funded by AfriSam.

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For more information Contact:
Maxine Nel
Head of Corporate Communications

AfriSam
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011 670 5893