September 9 2024 21:22
SOUTH AFRICA
ith the purpose of discussing the potential opportunities facing the property industry, the South African Property Owners Association (SAPOA) has officially opened its Annual Convention 2024. Attacq CEO and outgoing SAPOA President Jackie van Niekerk reflects on the past year and passes the baton to incoming President Itumeleng Mothibeli during this year’s conference, making it a momentous occasion.
Reflecting on the Year That Was: Jackie van Niekerk
Jackie van Niekerk emphasised in her speech the real estate sector’s tenacity in the face of the year’s extraordinary difficulties. “It’s been a tough year,” she said, “with water and electricity problems taking centre stage.” However, there is hope for the future. Now that a Government of National Unity (GNU) has been established, there is a renewed sense of confidence, and real estate investors are starting to look at local opportunities once more.
Van Niekerk underlined SAPOA’s assistance in guiding members through these tumultuous times. “SAPOA is still a strong organisation that is dedicated to changing the lives of people in the communities we serve. We have enhanced our organisational ability to better serve the issues of our members because we take them seriously. We are here to make sure that municipalities operate efficiently and that the sector prospers, whether it is through multi-year initiatives or municipal integrated plans.”
She also acknowledged the organisation’s continuous efforts in training and education. “21 students are benefiting from our bursary funds this year, and SAPOA will continue to invest in the future of our industry with an average pass rate of 81% for post-qualification courses.”
Van Niekerk thanked the sponsors, the larger SAPOA community, and the national and regional committees for their hard work in closing. Resilience is the cornerstone of this sector, and each new development bears witness to the extraordinary individuals that comprise this community. Serving as your president has been a privilege, and I have no doubt that SAPOA will prosper under the incoming administration.
A New Chapter: Itumeleng Mothibeli Takes the Helm
Vukile Property Fund Southern Africa Managing Director Itumeleng Mothibeli, the incoming president of SAPOA, thanked Jackie van Niekerk and the SAPOA board for their guidance throughout the previous year. “Thank you, Jackie, for your excellent leadership and the successful board meetings we’ve had on behalf of the membership and the present board. There is a lot to concentrate on as we proceed, and I am eager to tackle the difficulties that lie ahead.
Mothibeli emphasised the significance of SAPOA’s function on a local and national levels.
“One of SAPOA’s greatest assets is its capacity to recognise regional issues and bring them to the attention of the country. Public sector advocacy will be one of my main areas of focus during my term. Instead of just shoving ideas down, we must take a cooperative approach to finding answers that satisfy everyone.”
He also stressed the necessity of industry-wide skill development. “Developing skills is a crucial issue, and we must make sure that the industry has the capacity to take in the skilled labour that is coming up. This will be one of my main priorities as president.
Mothibeli concluded by restating South Africa’s status as a gateway to Africa and pointing out that the nation is still an appealing location for capital investment. “Despite the difficulties we confront, the market is feeling optimistic, and I am excited about the growth potential we can realise by turning opportunities into actual wealth.”
Attendees of the SAPOA Annual Convention 2024 will anticipate lively conversations, intense debates, and cooperative efforts aimed at advancing the real estate sector. SAPOA’s vibrant leadership team and unwavering dedication to member support enable it to maintain its pivotal position in defining the trajectory of South Africa’s property industry.
247@propertyflash.co.za
