Horizons on Bloomberg TV Africa to showcase cutting edge science and technology that solves challenge

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, 6 November 2014 – Today, DuPont, a science company that brings world-class, innovative products, materials and services to the global marketplace, will introduce Horizons on Bloomberg TV Africa.

This program will be the first series to focus on science and innovation on the African continent, and will showcase cutting-edge African science and technology as well as examples of companies collaborating to ensure Africa’s growth.

According to DuPont, to grow the African economy and tackle the demands of the growing population in the region, science and innovation needs to be centre stage.

“The world is facing unprecedented challenges brought by the needs of a growing population. As the world population grows, pressure on necessities such as energy, food and safety continue to intensify.  We believe that science and technology can and must be used to overcome these challenges and Africa has a big role to play in addressing these issues,” says Dr Richard Okine, President of DuPont Sub-Saharan Africa.

DuPont produced stories of inclusive innovation that will air during the program’s commercial break. Filmed around the African continent, the stories highlight global collaborations that reflect how businesses, governments, non-profits and academia are working together with DuPont to solve Africa’s greatest challenges.

Viewers can watch the premiere of the Horizons Africa series on Bloomberg TV Africa, DStv Channel 411 today at 21:00. The program will be broadcast in the same time slot every Thursday until 25 December 2014. Reruns will be aired during January to April next year.

The launch episode will feature the innovative invention by biotechnologist from Cape Town, Ashley Uys, showcasing her rapid HIV and malaria tests that indicate within 30 minutes if treatment is effective. The episode is one of eight documentaries that will be featured.

Profit versus Purpose – a Mining Industry in a State of Flux

Shareholders and stakeholders need to come to the party to identify solutions to ensure the survival of the mining industry.

Cape Town, 5 February 2014: The balance between sustainability and profitability has always been a difficult one to strike, particularly within the mining industry. All too often, the pursuit of generating revenue is put above the importance of social engagement in the communities that the sector impacts. Although corporate social investment has always been a critical factor in the mining industry, more often than not proper measures are not taken to ensure their tangible impact.

According to DuPont Global Consulting Solutions, as uncertainty and complexity continue to define the context in which mining companies operate, executives are facing pressures to become more competitive and agile, while also delivering tangible value for all stakeholders.

Speaking at the 2014 African Mining Indaba, Simon Herriot, Managing Director, DuPont Global Consulting Solutions had this to say, “The need for, and desire of, mining companies to maximise benefits for local communities is quite clear.  And yet, while many mining companies have bolstered their commitment and understanding of sustainable development, successful implementation remains a challenge.”

He further said, “Sustainable implementation can only happen when executives start to balance shareholder accountability with stakeholder concerns, and company success with social progress. In doing so, executives can provide products that not only address the communities’ need, but the expectations of consumers and society – while accessing new markets, creating demand and spurring growth.

Herriot added that key to this is a belief that the mining sector can truly become a vehicle for positive societal change. Historical impressions of an industry only interested in profit at any cost must be reversed in favour of a more inclusive approach that intends to share benefits of the company being in operation with community stakeholders and company shareholders alike.

The greatest obstacle towards achieving this ideal is twofold – an efficient and productive workforce and finding alternative energy solutions to help fight souring energy costs.

Finding a balance between employment and mechanisation has always been challenging for the mining industry. The best approach, Herriott believes, is one that aligns skills development and educational programmes to future business needs.

“Championing sustainable labour solutions within the mining industry relies on educating and uplifting communities. In many ways, large global entities can benefit from a dedication to promoting skills development. If executed correctly, this can directly serve the business requirements while engaging the communities.”

“Promoting critical skills development in science and mathematics with a view towards training rural youth to become mechanical or industrial engineers, for example, is an approach that can have a long-lasting impact. This allows the mine to focus on implementing mechanization where required to protect profitability, while benefitting from a well-trained and skilled work force.”

The necessity to reduce energy consumption and unnecessary wastage of valuable resources is also critical to the process. This approach demands a long-term dedication from all stakeholders and will not be something that is rectified over-night. “As such it is essential that the mining industry work together to achieve a sustainable solution ” , concludes Herriott.