Welcome to the final newsflash of 2024 from the Zimele Group of Companies! As we wrap up another remarkable year, we take a moment to reflect on our achievements and share exciting updates as we look ahead to the new year.
Word from the Chairperson of the Zimele Group
By Dr John Maluleke
As the year 2024 draws towards the end, it is that time of the year where we have to reflect back and weigh the successes and challenges that we have encountered throughout the year.
As the Zimele Group, we pride ourselves on the indelible mark of success stories that we have achieved throughout the year. While acknowledging the fact that challenges will occasionally be part of our daily life, we are of the view that presenting such challenges to God will definitely yield fruitful results. The Zimele Group embraces the government’s approach to enter into a collaborative strategy with neighbouring countries. It is my considered view that when countries converge their ideas, strategies and policies, they would be able to standardise their respective legislative and regulatory regimes. The positive output of collaborative strategies of this nature would potentially precipitate seamless transport systems flow from South Africa to our neighbouring countries.
A group photo of the Eswatini Delegation with D.O.T, SANRAL and Zimele Representatives
The South African National Roads Agency Limited SOC (SANRAL), and the National Department of Transport were pleased to welcome a delegation from the Eswatini Ministry of Public Works and Transport for a consultative meeting and site visits aimed at showcasing South Africa’s road transportation operations. The site visits took place at select premises of the Zimele Group of Company’s sites, and were conducted on 28 November 2024. The tour of the sites provided valuable insights into South Africa’s approach to vehicle overload control, weighbridge operations, and on the development of truck stops.
The delegation’s tour of the Heidelberg Traffic Control Centre was one of the main highlights of the visit. All who visited the sites conveyed their gratitude and happiness for the sites having been well-kept and effectively operated. The guests were amazed by the various sites’ immaculate state and emphasised the need for upholding such high standards in establishments that serve the needs of transport operators and truck drivers. The two sites’ smooth operations, hygienic facilities and organised procedures were acknowledged as a model for guaranteeing truck drivers’ comfort and safety while simultaneously facilitating the efficient movement of goods.
The visit was part of a broader program which included presentations on SANRAL’s vehicle overload control strategy, as well as operational tours of the vehicle weighing facilities, vehicle inspection centre, and prosecution department.
Strengthening ties for safer, smarter transportation solutions.
Eswatini Delegation pictured with SANRAL’s Project Manager, Layton Leseane.
In order to guarantee safe, effective, and sustainable road transportation methods, the Eswatini delegation had the opportunity to examine firsthand how these crucial facilities functioned, strengthening ties for safer, smarter transportation solutions.
We are honoured to have welcomed the delegation to our Zimele sites. We eagerly await future opportunities of this nature to continue our collaboration for the betterment of road safety and the heavy vehicle industry as a whole. The visit emphasises how crucial it is to uphold excellent standards at our weighbridges and truck stops so that the services offered benefit all parties involved in the transportation sector.
Promoting safety at the core of our operations
Zimele rolled out an Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) training session at three of its major sites, being the Zimele Vaal 1 Truck Stop, as well as the Warden and Balmoral Truck Stops, which emphasises the importance of safety standards in transport operations. The training covered key aspects of workplace safety, including emergency protocols, hazard identification, and best practices for maintaining a safe working environment for both staff and truck drivers.
The OHS session was well received and demonstrates our commitment to prioritising the health and safety of everyone at our facilities.
RMS Smart Cards – Convenience and efficiency with a tap!
RMS Smart Card
We are also excited to announce that in 2025, Zimele will be rolling out its new contactless RMS Smart Cards. This upgrade is part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing convenience and efficiency for all users of our products.
The contactless cards will enable quicker, smoother transactions at Toll Plazas on the N3 National Route, making it quicker and simpler for truck drivers and transport operators to commute.
New Truck Stops in Smithfield and Brits Drive Job Creation and Community Upliftment
From left: Clr RJ Thuhlo, Mayor Clr ZN Mgawuli, Prof. John Maluleke- Chairman and Phambili Gama – C E O
We are proud to announce significant growth in our operations, driven by the addition of two new truck stop sites in Brits and Smithfield. Collaborations formed with Twin-Cities Trading 364 (Pty) Ltd as well as the Mohokare Local Municipality have enabled the towns of Brits and Smithfield, respectively, to benefit tremendously in job creation and community upliftment, reinforcing their commitment to supporting both the transport industry and local communities in their areas.
The expansion of our operations has led to a notable increase in our staff complement. Our growth fuels job creation and community upliftment. The opening of the new truck stop sites has created several new employment opportunities across various roles, from truck stop managers to parking attendants. We are thrilled to see our continued growth not only benefitting the transport sector but also offering sustainable career opportunities to individuals from challenging backgrounds.
Core project team members from Zimele Head Office, including the Managers: Shadrack Mashoene, Jeffrey Fokane, and Hercules du Preez, alongside operational personnel
Smithfield Kiosk: Convenience at your doorstep!
The opening of the Smithfield truck stop site has had a significant impact on the local community. As part of our commitment to Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment, Zimele has established a Kiosk within the truck stop, featuring a separate and dedicated entrance for the local community. This initiative empowers the entrepreneurial skills of Mamiky Empire (Pty) Ltd, a 100% black female youth-owned entity. The Kiosk provides a convenient grocery store, offering essential products to residents, many of whom live in nearby informal settlements.
Prior to the Kiosk, access to basic groceries was a challenge for the local population, as the nearest shop was located far from the community. By bringing essential services “closer to home”, we are helping to meet the daily needs of local families, while reducing travel time and costs.
Our growth fuels job creation and community upliftment.
Stay tuned for more Zimele updates! Seasons Greetings to all, and thank you for your continued support!