Transport Month October: The Role of Last-Mile Delivery and Infrastructure in South Africa's Economy

As Transport Month comes to a end, experts highlight the transformative power of logistics innovations and robust infrastructure in bolstering the country’s economic resilience and growth. Karen Visser, Programme Leader for Transport Economics and Logistics Management at NWU, and Dr. Olebogeng Baikgaki of NWU’s Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, discuss how last-mile delivery and transport infrastructure serve as pillars for economic progress and community well-being.

The Last-Mile Delivery Revolution

The rise of last-mile delivery has reshaped the logistics sector, driven by a surge in online shopping and the demand for home delivery services. Traditionally, long-haul road freight dominated the industry, but consumer expectations for same-day or precise delivery have made last-mile delivery essential. This final step in the delivery process, from distribution center to consumer, has shifted the focus toward smaller, agile vehicles and efficient routing, allowing consumers to receive nearly any item at their doorstep.

This trend has not only personalized logistics but has also created economic opportunities, as more individuals engage as delivery partners across various sectors. However, challenges such as urban congestion, high delivery costs, and regional disparities in infrastructure persist, underscoring the need for continued investment and innovation to meet delivery demands effectively.

Transport Infrastructure: A Foundation for Growth

Dr. Baikgaki emphasizes that efficient transport infrastructure is a critical element in driving South Africa’s economic and social development. Roads, railways, ports, and airports act as the lifelines of the economy, enabling the movement of goods and people and fostering economic participation. Investment in high-quality, sustainable infrastructure can reduce regional disparities, support job creation, and improve market access for underserved communities.

Yet, South Africa faces challenges, including underfunded infrastructure projects and an increasing urban population, that require innovative solutions. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) and strategic investments are essential to bridge funding gaps and support long-term development goals.

Transforming Lives and Economies

Together, last-mile delivery innovations and efficient infrastructure are reshaping South Africa's economic landscape. As Transport Month highlights, both advancements bring people closer to essential services, create new job opportunities, and support sustainable growth, paving the way for a resilient and inclusive future.

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Professors Van Aswegen and Drewes Lead Groundbreaking Research on Regional Policy in the SADC

Prof Mariske van Aswegen and Prof Ernst Drewes from North-West University (NWU) are making a significant impact on the Southern African Development Community (SADC) through their pioneering work in regional policy. As editors of the recently published book Regional Policy in the Southern African Development Community, these two scholars are shedding new light on how regional cooperation can transform the future of southern Africa. Their research addresses the need for sustainable development, economic integration, and improved cross-border collaboration in a region that has long lacked coherent policy frameworks.

Meet the Editors

Prof Mariske van Aswegen is an extraordinary professor at the Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management (UESM) at NWU. With 20 years of academic experience, she has become a leading voice in regional strategic planning and resilience in peripheral regions. Prof Van Aswegen is a qualified and professionally registered urban and regional planner with the South African Council for Planners (SACPLAN). Her research focuses on practical, real-world solutions for sustainable development across southern Africa.

Prof Ernst Drewes brings 30 years of experience in urban and regional planning to his role as a professor in the School of Geo and Spatial Sciences. He specializes in regional development and is a registered professional with SACPLAN. Prof Drewes is also an accredited commercial mediator with a focus on property development mediation, making him a key figure in shaping regional planning and infrastructure projects. His contributions to the field have been instrumental in promoting sustainable, long-term growth within the SADC.

Driving Regional Policy Forward

The book edited by Van Aswegen and Drewes is a comprehensive examination of regional policy in the SADC. It addresses three crucial areas: policy, physical and structural frameworks, and economic and trade perspectives. Through their leadership, the book presents solutions for improving regional collaboration, fostering trade interdependency, and building a more cohesive economic framework among the member states of the SADC.

Prof Van Aswegen and Prof Drewes have worked tirelessly to ensure that regional policy planning becomes a priority for southern African nations. Their contributions aim to fill a gap in the SADC’s approach to policy, providing strategic thinking that takes into account the unique challenges faced by each country in the region. The editors also emphasize the importance of regional infrastructure development as a critical tool for boosting economic cooperation and resilience.

Expanding the Global South’s Voice

One of the key goals of this research is to amplify the voice of the Global South in discussions on spatial economic development. Van Aswegen and Drewes are passionate about encouraging greater cross-border collaboration and providing solutions for inter- and intra-regional challenges. Their work offers fresh perspectives on how to create resilient policies that can drive both economic growth and sustainable development across southern Africa.

Their efforts to promote cross-border collaboration, sustainability, and regional resilience will have lasting impacts on southern Africa’s development trajectory.

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NWU Serenaders Win First Place at Tiro Mpane Foundation National Choral Eisteddfod

🎭🗣 🎭🗣 🎭🗣 🎭🗣 🎭🗣

A huge congratulations to the NWU Serenaders for clinching first place at the Tiro Mpane Foundation National Choral Eisteddfod – North West Regionals!🥇 This achievement is a testament to their incredible talent, hard work, and dedication to the art of music. Once again, the Serenaders have proven that they belong at the top.

This victory is not only a highlight for the group but also for the entire NWU community, who are extremely proud of these musical ambassadors.🎶Their harmonious collaboration and passion for choral music shine through in every performance, making them stand out from the rest.

We wish the Serenaders all the best as they continue to conquer stages and touch hearts with their music. Keep flying the NWU flag high, and let the music live on!💜🖤

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NWU Eagles Soar to Victory Over Wits in Bloemfontein

🏐🏆 🏐🏆 🏐🏆 🏐🏆 🏐🏆

Full time in Bloemfontein, and the NWU Eagles have secured a dominant 54-39 victory over Wits.🏆 The team delivered an incredible performance on both defence and attack, showcasing their skill and teamwork.

Building Momentum for the Season

This win gives the Eagles a strong start as they carry this momentum forward into the rest of the Varsity Netball 2024 season.✨ The players are excited about the road ahead and aim to keep the winning streak going.

Community Support Matters

The Eagles' success is bolstered by the passionate support from the NWU community. Fans are encouraged to continue showing their colours and backing the team all the way.

🏐🏆 🏐🏆 🏐🏆 🏐🏆 🏐🏆

#MyNWU #NWUEagles #varsitynetball2024 #ShowYourColours #PotchGazette #TheGoToGuy #StroomStories #Potchefstroom #SkoolKompas

Ikageng Fun Run: Promoting Social Cohesion and Empowering Youth

The Annual Ikageng Fun Run once again proved to be more than just a race, bringing the community together for a day of health, safety, and unity. This year’s event was a vibrant celebration of social cohesion and healthy living, emphasizing the importance of empowering local youth and building a stronger community.

Youth Empowerment Through Road Marshal Roles

A standout feature of this year’s Fun Run was the employment of 18 unemployed young people as Road Marshals. This initiative provided them with valuable event management experience, offering practical skills that could lead to future employment opportunities. Involving the youth in key organizational roles reflects a broader commitment to creating pathways for growth and development within the community.

Support from North West University

North West University, a longtime supporter of the Ikageng Fun Run, once again played a significant role in the event’s success. Despite the cold weather, their involvement contributed to the event's positive energy, reinforcing the spirit of community collaboration. The university’s continued support highlights the potential for educational institutions to play a pivotal role in local initiatives that promote health and social well-being.

Fostering Community and Safety

The Fun Run served as a reminder of the power of community engagement in keeping local streets safer and more inclusive. The collective participation of residents, volunteers, and supporters showcased the strength of community bonds and the shared goal of creating a safer, healthier environment for everyone.

As Ikageng continues to host this annual event, it becomes clear that the Fun Run is more than a race – it is a beacon of unity, empowerment, and progress for the entire community.

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Geskiedenis word gemaak: NWU Vaal se eerste rugbyspan speel in die Gold Cup

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NWU Vaal se eerste rugbyspan is op die punt om geskiedenis te maak! Hulle sal die eerste universiteitspan wees wat in die Gold Cup🏆 speel wanneer hulle Saterdag hul veldtog in Hartebeespoort begin teen die Northam Wolves.

Springs en NWU Vaal verteenwoordig die Valke in die Gold Cup op grond van hul prestasies in 2023. Hierdie is 'n uitkloptoernooi waar die top 32 klubs in die land teen mekaar meeding om die kampioenstitel te verower.Ons is ongelooflik trots op die span se prestasie en sien uit na die uitdagings wat voorlê💥.Die hele gemeenskap wens beide spanne die beste van geluk toe! Kom ons ondersteun ons spanne terwyl hulle die veld betree en hul beste lewer.

🏉🏆 🏉🏆 🏉🏆 🏉🏆 🏉🏆

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Kimera Govender: Miss Earth South Africa Finalist

Kimera Govender’s journey from North-West University (NWU) graduate to finalist in the Miss Earth South Africa competition reflects her dedication to environmental sustainability and community impact. A 2023 graduate with a BSc in environmental science, majoring in zoology and geography, Kimera’s time at NWU played a pivotal role in shaping her path toward becoming an advocate for the environment.

During her time at the NWU Potchefstroom Campus, she not only excelled academically but also took on leadership roles, including serving as the finance and sponsorship coordinator for the Student Academic Chapter in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences. These experiences set her apart, earning her recognition such as Sponsorship Member of the Year.

Advocating for Sustainability

Now as a finalist in Miss Earth South Africa, Kimera has translated her passion for the environment into action. Her initiatives include tree planting, recycling projects, environmental education programmes, and supporting communities through volunteering efforts. Additionally, she works on projects focused on helping women and children affected by abuse and trafficking.

Leading by Example

Kimera’s efforts demonstrate the importance of sustainability in everyday life, urging individuals and communities to adopt eco-friendly habits. Her journey from NWU to Miss Earth South Africa serves as a reminder of how education and leadership can contribute to positive change.

Her work is a testament to the idea that small, consistent efforts can make a substantial impact, both in her community and for the environment.

Kimera Govender’s inspiring journey from NWU to the national stage as a Miss Earth South Africa finalist is a testament to her dedication to both her community and the environment. As she continues to champion sustainability and lead by example, her impact is already being felt. We wish her all the best in the Miss Earth South Africa competition and look forward to seeing the positive change she will undoubtedly continue to inspire.

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Water for the Future: NWU’s International Water Week Makes a Splash

North-West University (NWU) made a bold statement about the importance of water conservation and sustainability. From 26 to 30 August, the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (FNAS), alongside the Water Research Group, the Safety, Health and Environment Department, and the Green Team, hosted International Water Week. This week-long initiative raised awareness about the critical need for clean water and protecting water sources for future generations.

The event featured three key community engagement activities, organized by the FNAS Zoology subject group, each focused on educating and inspiring action. A river clean-up at the Trimpark, a Fish Day at Vyfhoek Primary School, and a citizen science project provided the perfect platforms for NWU students and the local community to get involved in meaningful environmental efforts.

Community Action: A River Clean-Up at Trimpark

The week began with action. On Monday, 26 August, students and volunteers from NWU, along with the university’s Green Team, rolled up their sleeves and headed to the Trimpark for a river clean-up. By the end of the day, they had collected around 100 bags of waste from the banks and waters of the Mooi River.

This clean-up was more than just a feel-good event. It served as a stark reminder of how human activity directly impacts local water bodies. The waste collected, including plastics and other pollutants, not only harms the environment but also affects the local wildlife that depends on clean water for survival.

Engaging Young Minds: Fish Day at Vyfhoek Primary School

On Wednesday, 28 August, NWU took their message to the next generation. Grade 7 learners from Vyfhoek Primary School were treated to a fun yet educational Fish Day, where they learned about fish migration, anatomy, and aquatic ecosystems. The learners rotated through eight different stalls, each one offering a unique hands-on learning experience.

Tshenolo Masilo, a zoology master’s student, was among the educators, teaching the learners about the dangers fish and other organisms face due to pollution. The day’s success was reflected in the feedback from the learners themselves. Some even expressed their admiration and gratitude, proving that education is a powerful tool for fostering future environmentalists.

Empowering the Community: Citizen Science Shop on the Mooi River

International Water Week concluded on Friday, 30 August, with a citizen science shop held along the Mooi River. This initiative invited community members to actively participate in monitoring and testing the river water. Equipped with testing kits from WaterCan, the participants were shown how to assess the quality of the water themselves.

NWU students further enriched the experience by demonstrating the South African Scoring System version 5 (SASS5) method, a technique that uses macroinvertebrates to assess water quality. The data collected from these organisms helps to indicate the level of pollution in the river, with certain species being more sensitive than others.

This citizen science project was a true collaboration between the university and the local community, offering participants the chance to not only learn but also contribute to protecting their water resources.

The Road Ahead: Continuing the Push for Water Sustainability

The efforts by NWU and its partners during International Water Week underscored the importance of clean water for all. Through practical action and educational outreach, they have not only raised awareness but have empowered individuals—young and old alike—to take ownership of their role in protecting our most vital resource.

Water sustainability is a global challenge, but as the events of this week have shown, local efforts can have a powerful impact. The clean-up of the Mooi River, the education of young learners, and the involvement of community members in citizen science are all stepping stones towards a more sustainable future.

Water Week may be over, but the lessons learned and actions taken will continue to ripple through the community, serving as a reminder that the future of water lies in our hands.

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NWU Vier 20 Jaar van Grootsheid Met Boomplanting Tydens Arbor Week

🌲🌱 🌲🌱 🌲🌱 🌲🌱 🌲🌱

In viering van Arbor Week het die Noordwes-Universiteit (NWU) se gemeenskap op al drie kampusse—Mafikeng, Potchefstroom en Vanderbijlpark—saamgekom om 20 bome🌳 op elke kampus te plant. Hierdie spesiale inisiatief simboliseer 20 jaar van NWU se ryk nalatenskap en beklemtoon die universiteit se verbintenis tot 'n groener toekoms vir die volgende generasie.🍃

Om hierdie mylpaal te merk, is die Karee-boom,🌲 wat uniek is aan die Noordwes-provinsie en ook vanjaar se boom van die jaar is, gekies. Twee variëteite, Searsia lancea (Karee) en Searsia leptodictya (Berg Karee), is geplant—met 10 van elke variëteit per kampus.

Met elke boom wat geplant word, word 'n belegging gemaak in 'n groener, volhoubare toekoms. Hierdie simboliese gebaar dien as 'n herinnering aan NWU se verbintenis tot die omgewing en hul voortdurende impak op die gemeenskap.Hier is op 20 bome vir 20 jaar van grootsheid!

🌱☀️ 🌱☀️🌱☀️🌱☀️🌱☀️

#ArbourWeek2024 #20YearsOfGreatness #PotchGazette #TheGoToGuy #StroomStories #Potchefstroom #SkoolKompas

NWU Eagles Dominate in Varsity Netball 2024 Opener

🏐🦅 🏐🦅 🏐🦅 🏐🦅 🏐🦅

The NWU Eagles soared to a stunning 85-49 victory over the Madibaz in their Varsity Netball 2024 opener. 🦅 From the first whistle to the last, the Eagles dominated the court,showcasing true NWU spirit.

A Commanding Performance

The Eagles kept their opponents under pressure throughout the match, displaying top-tier skill and teamwork. With a combination of strong defense, precise shooting, and cohesive play, the NWU team left the Madibaz with little room to fight back.🏐🦅

Consistent Determination and Spirit

This victory is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Eagles. They’ve proven themselves to be a formidable team in this season’s Varsity Netball competition. 🏐Congratulations to the entire team—you’ve made NWU proud! We look forward to more victories in the season ahead.

🎖️🦅 🎖️🦅 🎖️🦅 🎖️🦅 🎖️🦅

#MyNWU #NWUEagles #VarsityNetball2024 #ShowYourColours #VarsitySports #PotchGazette #TheGoToGuy #StroomStories #Potchefstroom #SkoolKompas