DAY 1 | 26 March 2025
Leading African Solutions for Global Sustainability
08:00 - 09:00 Registration and Refreshments
09:00 - 09:05 Moderators Welcome | Leanne Manas, Award-winning South African radio presenter and television broadcaster & Host of Morning Live
09:05 - 09:10 Organiser’s Welcome | Clay Tsapi, Project Manager, Topco Media
09:00 - 09:20 Gold Partner Address |Millicent Maroga, Corporate Affairs Director, HEINEKEN Beverages
09:20 - 09:30 Opening Address | Dr Achieng Ojwang, Executive Director, UN Global Compact Network South Africa
09:30 - 09:45 Deputy Minister’s Address | Energising South Africa: The Road to a Resilient and Sustainable Power Future
South Africa’s energy sector is at a pivotal moment. With the urgent need to reduce load-shedding, enhance energy security and drive sustainable economic growth, the government has introduced a series of bold reforms aimed at transforming the power landscape. This keynote will explore the key initiatives shaping the country’s energy future, including mobilising private investment for transmission network expansion, developing a competitive electricity market, significantly upscaling renewable energy and implementing a just energy transition plan.
Speaker: Ms Samantha Graham-Maré, Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy
09:45 - 10:25
Hosted by HEINEKEN Beverages
Panel Discussion | Scalable Circular Solutions: Tackling Africa’s Sustainability Challenges
This panel will delve into practical and scalable strategies that leverage the circular economy to address Africa’s pressing sustainability challenges. Experts from various sectors will share insights into innovative approaches for waste reduction, resource efficiency, and environmental resilience. The discussion will focus on actionable solutions that promote economic growth, enhance livelihoods, and drive inclusive opportunities, all while creating a cleaner, more sustainable future for the continent.
Panellists:
● Shabeer Jhetam, Chief Executive Officer, The Glass Recycling Company
● Prof. Neissan Besharati, Research Director: Sustainability, ESG, Impact, Circular Economy, GIBS Business School
● Dr Lorren Haywood, Senior Researcher: Sustainability, Economics and Waste Research Group, CSIR
● Molatelo Motau, Sustainability Manager, HEINEKEN Beverages
10:25 - 10:55 Panel Discussion| Rebuilding South Africa’s Water Systems: Addressing Failures and Pioneering Solutions for a Sustainable Future
South Africa’s water infrastructure is at a tipping point, burdened by aging systems and mismanagement. As water crises intensify, there is an urgent need for actionable solutions to ensure long-term water security. This panel will delve into the systemic failures underlying the nation’s water management challenges while spotlighting innovative strategies to rebuild and modernise the water supply chain.
Panellists:
● Peter Varndell, CEO, NEPAD Business Foundation & Executive Secretary, Strategic Water Partners Network
● Elinda Du Toit, Lead Process Engineer, HEINEKEN Beverages
● Jay Bhagwan, Executive Manager: Water Use and Waste Management, Water Research Commission
● Billy James, Managing Executive, NuWater
10:55 - 11:05 Fast Track Networking
11:05 - 11:35
Hosted by Brewing Conversations | Nespresso Networking Break
11:35 - 11:55
Hosted by Nestlé Fireside Chat | Achieving Zero Water: Nestlé's Journey to Water Efficiency and Sustainability
As water scarcity intensifies, Nestlé is leading the way with innovative solutions to reduce water consumption and maximise reuse in its operations. This session explores Nestlé’s journey toward “Zero Water,” highlighting key strategies, cutting-edge technologies, and sustainable practices that drive water efficiency while ensuring long-term environmental and business sustainability.
Speaker: Conny Sethaelo, Corporate Communication & Public Affairs Director, Nestlé
Eco-Tech | Tech Innovations for a Greener Future
11:55 - 12:00 Power Talk | Alveena Pillay, Executive: Strategic Partnerships, iME
12:00 - 12:30
Hosted by iME
Panel Discussion | Harnessing Technology for Good: Driving Innovation and Sustainable Growth in the Digital Age
This dynamic panel will explore how technological advancements are transforming industries and empowering businesses to drive both innovation and sustainability. The conversation will focus on the strategic alignment of emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, big data, and IoT with societal and environmental goals, enabling companies to innovate responsibly while supporting sustainable growth.
Panellists:
● Mbuso Khoza, Chief Technology Officer, iME
● Talita Boodhram, Chief Impact Officer, MiDesk Global
● Kevin Trethewey, Head of Software Engineering & Technology, Sand Technologies
12:30 - 12:45
Hosted by Dell Technologies Power Talk | Advancing Sustainability with Technology
13:00 -
Discover groundbreaking strategies for tackling e-waste through sustainable design, refurbishment programmes, and upcycling initiatives. Learn how circular economy principles are transforming the tech industry by reducing waste, extending product lifecycles, and repurposing materials into new innovations. Discover how Dell is driving a more responsible and sustainable approach to technology.
Speaker: Doug Woolley, General Manager and Vice President, Dell Technologies South Africa
14:00 - 14:40 Panel Discussion| Navigating the Net Zero Journey: Setting Realistic Milestones and Avoiding Greenwashing
As businesses and organisations accelerate their commitment to achieving net zero emissions, it’s essential to set realistic, measurable milestones along the way. This panel will dive into the complexities of navigating the net zero journey, focusing on the importance of transparency, data accuracy, and credible reporting practices. Experts will discuss how companies can align their net zero targets with science-based frameworks and real-world emission reductions, while avoiding the pitfalls of greenwashing
Panellists:
● Renata Lawton-Misra, Associate Director: Co-Head, The Carbon Trust Africa
● Kavita Pema, Group Vice President: Sustainability, ESG & EHS, AECI
● Jeff Dunnink, Head of NBS implementation, Africa, South Pole
● Kurt Roelandt, Director, Envision Advisory Services
14:40 - 15:20 Panel Discussion | Closing the Loop: From Waste Management to Resource Recovery and Job Creation
South Africa's waste crisis is not just an environmental issue; it is a missed opportunity to unlock economic value and create sustainable jobs. This panel will explore how waste can
be transformed into a resource through innovative recycling initiatives, extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes, and robust policy frameworks By transitioning from linear waste management systems to circular resource recovery models, industries and communities can not only reduce environmental degradation but also stimulate local economies.
Panellists:
● Luyanda Hlatshwayo, African Reclaimers Organisation
● Tshepo Mazibuko, Chief Executive Officer, K1 Recycling
● Dr. Avashnee Chetty, Sustainability Manager, Safripol
● Rishel Dharmapall, ESG Sector Expert-Circular Economy, Africa Business Network
15:20 - 16:00 Panel Discussion| Shared Value Beyond Philanthropy: CSR for a Regenerative Economy
This panel discussion reimagines corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the context of a regenerative economy, challenging businesses to go beyond traditional sustainability efforts. Instead of merely minimising harm, the regenerative economy focuses on actively restoring ecosystems, empowering communities, and rebuilding resources to create net positive outcomes. Join industry leaders and experts as they discuss actionable approaches for embedding shared value into business models, fostering collaboration across sectors, and ensuring a thriving future for all.
Panellists:
● Charles Wyeth, Enterprise and Supplier Development Manager, HEINEKEN Beverages
● Tiekie Barnard, Founder and CEO, Shared Value Africa & Shift Impact Africa
● Nicole Solomon, Group Social Responsibility and Sustainability Impact Manager, AECI
● Nchimunya Hamukoma, Senior Associate: Demand, Jobs & Livelihoods, The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP)
16:00 - 16:05 Moderator’s Closing Remarks
DAY 1 END
DAY 2 | 27 March 2025
Leading African Solutions for Global Sustainability
08:00 - 09:15 Registration and Refreshments
09:30 - 09:35 Moderators Welcome | Leanne Manas, Award-winning South African radio presenter and television broadcaster & Host of Morning Live
09:35 - 09:50 Keynote Address | Empowering Africa's Economies: The Transformative Impact of AfCRA on Local and Regional Markets
The Africa Credit Rating Agency (AfCRA) represents a bold step toward financial sovereignty and economic empowerment for the continent. This keynote will explore how AfCRA can unlock new opportunities by addressing long-standing challenges in credit assessments, improving access to capital, and enhancing Africa’s economic resilience. Gain insights into how this homegrown solution can help African nations and businesses build stronger financial credibility, attract sustainable investment, and drive inclusive economic growth across the continent.
Speaker: Adv. Batlokoa Makong, Advisor to the Chief Executive Officer, APRM Continental Secretariat
09:50 - 10:30 Panel Discussion | Navigating Carbon Tax: Turning Compliance into Competitive Advantage for South African Industries
As South Africa advances its carbon tax regulations, industries face mounting pressure to adapt and innovate. This panel will dissect the latest carbon tax proposals, offering insights into their implications for key sectors and the broader economy.
Panellists:
● Jarredine Morris, Associate Director: Co-Head, The Carbon Trust Africa
● Mohsin Khan, Country Finance Manager, Yellow Door Energy & SAICA Carbon Tax Committee Member
● Caitlin Dunn, Senior Chemical Engineer, Yellow Tree Environmental
10:30 - 10:45
Hosted by Isanti Glass
10:45 - 11:05
Hosted by Nespresso
11:05 - 11:15
11:15 - 11:40
Hosted by
Fireside Chat | Glass – The Only Sustainable Choice
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, packaging choices matter more than ever. This fireside chat with Isanti Glass will explore why glass stands out as the ultimate sustainable packaging material. Unlike other options, glass is 100% natural, endlessly recyclable, and free from chemical leaching, making it the safest and most environmentally responsible choice for manufacturers and consumers alike. The discussion will also touch on the role of glass in supporting circular economies, reducing waste, and driving long-term environmental benefits. Join this engaging conversation to uncover why choosing glass isn’t just good for the planet it’s good for business too.
Panellists:
● Pieter du Plessis, Chief Executive Officer, Isanti Glass
● Ronel Cara, Executive:Sales & Marketing, Isanti Glass
Fireside Chat | Sustainable Grounds: Nurturing Quality Coffee, Livelihoods, and the Environment
Join us for an engaging conversation that delves into the heart of Nespresso's transformative AAA Program. This fireside chat will unravel the intricacies of a program designed not only to ensure a continuous supply of high-quality coffee but to uplift the livelihoods of farmers and safeguard the environment.
Speaker: Natisha Singh, B2C Marketing Specialist, Nespresso South Africa
Inclusive Governance | Aligning Policy, People, and Planet
11:40 - 12:20
Panel Discussion | Addressing Inequalities through ESG Strategies
Hosted by Old Mutual Insure
This session delves into how businesses can tackle social and economic disparities by embedding sustainable and responsible practices into their ESG frameworks. With pressing global challenges such as digital inequality, financial exclusion, uninsurability risks, climate change, and gender parity, businesses have a pivotal role to play in driving a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Moderator: Thabile Nyaba, Chief Risk & Sustainability Officer (CRSO), Old Mutual Insure
Panelists:
● Caesar Balona, Senior Manager: Catastrophe and Climate Change Modelling, Old Mutual Insure
● Ntheye Lungu, Head GRC Operations and Sustainability, Old Mutual Insure
12:20 - 12:50
Fireside Chat|Balancing Growth with Ethics: AfCFTA’s Role in Shaping Transparent and Fair Supply Chains
As the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) opens up new opportunities for economic growth across the continent, the focus on ethical supply chains becomes paramount. This topic will explore how AfCFTA can drive transparency, fairness, and responsible practices in supply chains while preventing labour exploitation and elite capture. By addressing challenges like forced labour, child labour, and unfair wages, AfCFTA has the potential to create inclusive trade networks that empower workers and foster sustainable growth.
Panellists:
● Calvin Phume, Director: Africa Bilateral Economic Relations, Department of Trade, Industry and Competition
● Johan Oosthuizen, Principal Responsible Sourcing Lead, SLR Consulting
12:50 - 13:10 Fireside Chat |Innovating to Net Zero: The Role of Emerging Technologies in Achieving Carbon Neutrality
This session will delve into the critical role that emerging technologies play in the global push towards carbon neutrality, exploring how innovation is transforming industries and accelerating the transition to a net-zero economy. As countries and businesses alike set ambitious carbon reduction targets, technologies such as hydrogen fuel cells, advanced battery storage, carbon capture and storage (CCS), and artificial intelligence (AI) are becoming key enablers of this shift.
Panellists:
● Dr. Sayuri Moodliar, ESG Director, Open Access Data Centres
● Tlatsetso Ntseuoa, ESG Senior Manager, KPMG
13:10 - 14:00
Tomorrow | The Future of Sustainable Innovation
14:00 - 14:20 Fireside Chat | Unlocking Green Finance: Practical Pathways to Fund Sustainability Projects
In this panel, we will explore practical and actionable pathways for businesses to access green finance and fund sustainability initiatives. The discussion will provide step-by-step guidance on how to access green bonds and other green funding opportunities, breaking down the process for both small and large organizations. Panelists will share real-life examples of successful projects financed through green funding, illustrating the impact of these investments. Whether you’re an SME looking to launch your first green project or a large corporation scaling sustainability efforts, this session will provide valuable insights into navigating the emerging world of green finance.
Panelists:
● Graeme Wilkinson, Senior Social Investment Specialist, Tshikululu Social Investments
● Edmond Shoko-Lekhuleni, Technical Manager, AFROSAI-E
14:20 - 15:00 Panel Discussion| Youth-Powered Sustainability: Building Skills for Green Careers
As the global push for sustainability accelerates, young people are emerging as key players in shaping a greener future. This session delves into how the next generation can be empowered with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities necessary to excel in green industries Highlighting the growing demand for expertise in areas such as renewable energy
and sustainable urban planning, while addressing the barriers young people face in accessing training, mentorship, and funding
Panellists:
● Sinovuyo Moabalobelo, Head: Emerging Opportunities Opportunity Development & Incubation, Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator
● Kabelo Ncholo, Founder and CEO, Y-Brand
● Ruben Hazelzet, Creative Director & Founder, Soapbox South Africa
● Dr. Sydwell Shikweni, Vice President Transformation, Merchants
15:00 - 15:40 Fireside Chat |Nature-Positive Business: What the Global Biodiversity Framework Means for Business
The Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), adopted in 2022, marks a significant shift in how businesses must engage with biodiversity. As governments move to incorporate this framework into national policies, companies are increasingly expected to align their operations with global biodiversity targets. This session will explore what these new regulations mean for businesses, the risks of non-compliance, and the opportunities that arise from integrating biodiversity into corporate sustainability strategies
Panellists:
● Samir Randera-Rees, Nedbank Green Trust and Corporate Relations Manager, WWF
● Verushka Singh, Principal Associate, WSP
15:40 - 15:50 Rapid-Fire Reflections| Key Takeaways from the Conference
In this high-energy closing session, speakers and attendees will share their biggest insights from the conference, each in just 60 seconds! Expect sharp, impactful takeaways, quick lessons, and a final burst of inspiration before we wrap up.
15:50 - 16:00 Moderator’s Closing Remarks
16:00 - 18:00 Networking and Cocktail Function