Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the country’s automotive repair and supply chain through the launch of the 2025 Durban Automotive Cluster (DAC) SME Accelerator.
This public-private partnership with the eThekwini Municipality aims to nurture high-potential, black-owned Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and create a more resilient, inclusive automotive ecosystem.
The programme is a strategic step towards developing competitive Tier 2 and Tier 3 suppliers, directly supporting the goals of the South African Automotive Masterplan (SAAM) 2035. By promoting localisation, transformation and skills development, the initiative helps ensure that the country’s repair and manufacturing sectors are ready to meet future challenges.
Andrew Kirby, President and CEO of Toyota South Africa Motors, says: “At Toyota South Africa Motors, we believe that inclusive growth is not just a goal but a responsibility. The DAC SME Accelerator is a strategic platform to empower black-owned businesses, strengthen our local supply chain and ensure that transformation is embedded in the DNA of our industry.”
The programme encourages collaboration between established Tier 1 suppliers and emerging enterprises, ensuring that experience and expertise are shared across all levels of the industry. Participating Tier 1 suppliers are key to the success of the Accelerator, mentoring new entrants and aligning their own localisation and supplier development goals with Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) strategies.
Meghan King, Chief Facilitator of the Durban Automotive Cluster, says: “The DAC SME Accelerator is more than a programme – it’s a catalyst for inclusive growth and industrial resilience. By empowering black-owned SMEs, we’re not only diversifying the supply chain but also building a future-ready automotive sector.”
In 2024, the Accelerator attracted over 100 applications, showing its growing influence in advancing supplier capability, competitiveness and resilience. Selected SMEs undergo intensive preparation, culminating in a “Dragons’ Den” event where they pitch to potential customers and industry leaders.
“We are proud to support a programme that not only develops supplier capability but also creates meaningful opportunities for long-term partnerships and sector-wide resilience,” Andrew concludes.
Staff Writer
Reporting from the front lines of the collision repair industry, delivering expert analysis and the technical updates that drive the African automotive sector forward.
More From News
Global spotlight on VWGA apprentice Tshililo Nelwamondo
Tshililo Nelwamondo has earned international acclaim after being named Volkswagen Group Africa’s Best Apprentice for 2026, recognised at the prestigious Best Apprentice Awards in Wolfsburg, Germany.
Stellantis South Africa partners with Social Coding to expand digital learning
Stellantis South Africa has partnered with Social Coding South Africa to widen access to coding, robotics and digital skills in communities where technology remains scarce.
RMI strengthens support for artisan excellence
The Retail Motor Industry Organisation has reaffirmed its commitment to artisan development by hosting the Second Annual South African National Artisan Awards Selection Committee Inception Meeting.
ComputerLogic refreshes PMCLogic to strengthen paint and materials control
ComputerLogic has introduced an updated version of PMCLogic, its fully automated paint and materials management platform for collision repair businesses.
From Nissan Legacy to Chery Vision: Rosslyn’s Transformation
The Rosslyn automotive plant in Pretoria, once a bastion of Japanese manufacturing strength, has entered a new phase under the stewardship of Chery Automobile.
BASF Coatings Becomes Surventis and Begins New Chapter as Independent Business
Surventis has officially launched as an independent company, marking the completion of its carve-out from BASF and positioning the former BASF Coatings business as a major global player in automotive coatings and surface treatment.