January 2024

Cement and Concrete South Africa (CCSA) and its members are driving technical competence; innovation; sustainability; and high standards across the cement and concrete value chains.

Therefore, membership of this professional body confirms a commitment to developing a vibrant South African cement and concrete industry.
“At the cutting-edge of all matters relating to the cement and concrete industry, CCSA provides an immense leadership opportunity for our members to gain a holistic view of our industry by connecting with leaders and experts in their fields. This while also contributing their own unique perspectives and experiences to the benefit of the larger South African cement and concrete industry and local economy,” Hanlie Turner, Business Development Manager at CCSA, says.

Since inception in 2021 following the consolidation of The Concrete Institute; Concrete Society of Southern Africa; and The Association of Cementitious Material Producers, CCSA has grown its membership.

Through this large network of influencers, the body is fulfilling its mandates, one of which is to promote the value propositions of cement and concrete. Other priority obligations include raising awareness of the immense value that the South African cement and concrete industry creates. CCSA also supports research to increase the continuous expertise base, as well as promotes industry standards and audit compliance among members and industry stakeholders by a cement proficiency scheme.

Members across all tiers of membership have access to CCSA’s comprehensive portfolio of services for free or at member-discounted rates.

These include courses presented by the School of Concrete Technology which continues to keep pace with the constantly evolving skills demands of the industry. A case in point is the depth of knowledge that is now needed to build more robust concrete structures to withstand extreme climate events due to global climate change. This while also designing concrete mixes with smaller carbon footprints.

Meanwhile, new technologies are improving the design and application of concrete, placing additional demands on the skills pipeline. These include advanced admixtures; drone technology; thermal imaging; and remote sensing. This is in addition to sophisticated Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies, such as 3D concrete printing, with their disruptive potential that will radically revolutionise conventional building and civil-engineering construction value chains.

Members also have access to CCSA’s Information Centre, which houses the largest resource of cement and concrete research in sub-Saharan Africa. This includes more than 150 000 pamphlets, articles and papers; more than 4 000 books, including the latest conferences and symposia proceedings; and subscriptions to 120 local and international periodicals.

Moreover, members attend CCSA’s CPD-accredited technical events, such as its Concrete Working for Water Roadshow in February 2024; and webinars, as well as events of local interests arranged by the three Branch committees. Members also receive mention in Concrete Beton, CCSA’s quarterly electronic magazine that promotes excellence and innovation in concrete design and application.

Corporate membership provides access to affordable and targeted marketing for companies to broaden their reach; create brand awareness; and remain competitive and relevant in the market. Included on CCSA’s database, nominated representatives of these organisations are eligible for the benefits accruing at the particular membership level.

However, at the core of CCSA’s success are the many individual members and representatives of company members. These professionals – specifiers, contractors, industry enthusiasts, academics and students and retired construction stalwarts – all value acquiring relevant current knowledge and the opportunity to collaborate and network with peers to stay abreast of the latest cement and concrete industry developments in their own capacity.

“We encourage more individuals and companies to connect with cement and concrete leaders and experts, while also building their professional networks. There is strength in numbers, with collaboration between industry stakeholders even more important during difficult economic conditions. This is when academics; other professional bodies; companies spanning the entire cement and concrete industry value chain; and professionals must work together to find solutions to wider industry challenges. We are providing such a platform while also serving as a single voice for our industry to address industry concerns at the highest level,” Turner concludes.