TE Launches Youth Month Community Outreach at Lindopark

Transnet Engineering (TE) officially launched its 2026 Youth Month community outreach programme at Lindopark, the community closest to TE’s Head Office in Koedoespoort. The event attracted a large number of community members, particularly young people, who gathered to learn about employment, procurement, skills development and property leasing opportunities available through Transnet.

The programme commenced with an opening prayer by representative from SATAWU Doctor Kama, setting the tone for a day centred on empowerment, partnership and community development.

Ward 52 Councillor Frans Smith welcomed guests and encouraged young people to register to vote in the upcoming local government elections, reminding them that active citizenship plays a vital role in shaping their communities.

Representing Transnet Engineering Koedoespoort management, Executive Manager: Manufacturing, Clement Motsepe, delivered the keynote address, officially launching the initiative.

“Today’s engagement marks the official launch of this community outreach initiative—the first of ten engagements that will take place across the country during July as we commemorate Mandela Month. Through these engagements, we hope to empower communities with knowledge, build trust, and encourage active participation in creating safer and more prosperous communities. I firmly believe that a safe workplace is the foundation of a thriving business, and a thriving business is the heartbeat of a safe community. When we protect our people, we protect our future.”

The event formed part of TE’s broader commitment to building stronger relationships with communities while creating awareness of opportunities and the importance of protecting critical infrastructure.

Raising awareness on workplace crime

Senior Manager: Security & Forensics, Paul Matosa, presented crime statistics relating to the Koedoespoort plant for the previous financial year, highlighting the impact of criminal activities committed against Transnet Engineering facilities. Community members were shown how workplace crime affects individuals, families, businesses, surrounding communities and the country’s economy.

The presentation also outlined the legal consequences associated with infrastructure-related crimes, including minimum prison sentences of up to 15 years for certain offences.

Community members were encouraged to protect Transnet assets and work with law enforcement to combat crime.

Unlocking opportunities through Transnet

Representing People Management, Judith Mkhonto demonstrated, in real time, how to navigate the Transnet careers portal, showing attendees where to find vacancies and how to submit job applications online.

From Transnet Property, Meja Moabelo educated community members on leasing Transnet-owned properties, explaining the application, vetting and qualification processes. She highlighted that many Transnet properties require renovation and that successful applicants should be prepared to invest in refurbishing these facilities.

Representing Supply Chain Management, Shadrack Mukoma created awareness around doing business with Transnet by demonstrating where suppliers can access Requests for Quotations (RFQs) and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) on the Transnet portal. He also explained that suppliers are only registered once they have responded to a live procurement opportunity, ensuring an active and relevant supplier database.

John Skosana further educated attendees on Enterprise Supplier Development (ESD), explaining how businesses can register and benefit from the programme. He highlighted Transnet’s partnership with the National Empowerment Fund (NEF), which provides both financial and non-financial support, including business development services, to qualifying suppliers awarded Transnet tenders or purchase orders.

Representing the Transnet Academy, Nomfundo Mdoda shared information on learning and skills development opportunities available to young people, including bursaries, artisanship programmes, youth professional training and more.

A collective responsibility to fight crime

Representing TE EXCO, Head of Security & Forensics, Solly Mookanedi, urged young people to make responsible life choices and become ambassadors for protecting national infrastructure.

“We have not made a mistake by addressing you today. As the future leaders, you need to understand the implications of workplace crime. If you engage in unlawful activities, you also need to understand the consequences, including lengthy prison sentences. Take full advantage of the opportunities presented today—from employment and procurement to skills development and property opportunities—now that you know where and how to access them. Protect Transnet property and equipment so that we can secure future jobs, not only for yourselves but for the entire community. I urge you to become the eyes and ears of Transnet on the ground. Let us unite and stand together to fight crime to protect Transnet.”

Community welcomes the initiative

Speaking on behalf of the community, Excellent Mtsweni welcomed the initiative and called for continued collaboration between the community, Transnet and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to address crime and unemployment.

“Transnet must continue to invest in developing our community. Since this journey began, we have already witnessed positive change. Thank you to everyone who made today’s event possible. Siyabonga.”

The Lindopark engagement marked the beginning of a national series of community outreach initiatives that will continue throughout Mandela Month, reinforcing Transnet Engineering’s commitment to community development, crime prevention, youth empowerment and building lasting partnerships with the communities it serves.