TIPS Podcast

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast series, host Thobani K speaks with Kashrinda Mailula, Senior Environmental Practitioner at Mopani District Municipality, about the opportunities and challenges of implementing climate action and Just Transition principles at local government level in Limpopo. Mailula, whose work focuses on air quality management, climate change response, environmental compliance, and sustainability planning, reflects on how a recent Just Transition and Green Economy training programme strengthened her understanding of the relationship between climate change, green economic development, and inclusive policy implementation. She explains how Mopani’s recently approved Climate Change Response Strategy incorporates Just Transition principles, with a focus on reducing emissions, promoting sustainable development, and building resilience within communities. The discussion explores the unique characteristics of the Mopani economy, which is heavily dependent on mining and agriculture, and the implications this has for a low-carbon transition. Mailula highlights both the risks and opportunities associated with the transition, including the potential for job losses in carbon-intensive sectors, the need for reskilling and climate-smart agricultural practices, and opportunities linked to solar energy, biogas production, and public-private partnerships. Throughout the conversation, she emphasises that a successful Just Transition must be inclusive and people-centred. Communities, workers, industry, government, and educational institutions all have a role to play in ensuring that no one is left behind as South Africa moves towards a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast series, host Thobani K speaks with Fhumulani Perseverance Angwenyi from LEDET (Limpopo Economic Development, Environment and Tourism) about the opportunities and challenges of implementing a Just Transition in the province. Angwenyi, who works in environmental research, planning and coordination, reflects on how a recent Just Transition and Green Economy training programme deepened her understanding of the relationship between economic development, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion. She discusses the importance of developing policies that balance ecological protection with economic growth while ensuring that vulnerable communities are not excluded from the transition. The conversation explores the role of evidence-based research in policy development and highlights one of the province's biggest implementation challenges: access to funding. While Limpopo has developed both Green Economy and Climate Change strategies, Angwenyi notes that many community-led initiatives in areas such as waste management, recycling, biodiversity-based enterprises, and green innovation struggle to scale due to limited financial support and market access. The discussion also examines the risks and opportunities associated with moving towards a low-carbon economy. Angwenyi argues that while the transition may create new jobs and industries, policymakers must carefully manage the impacts on workers and communities currently dependent on mining and other carbon-intensive sectors. She advocates for improved technologies and more sustainable practices rather than abrupt industry closures, emphasising that a successful Just Transition must balance environmental goals with economic realities and social wellbeing. Looking ahead, she expresses confidence in Limpopo's ability to adapt and innovate, arguing that the province's resilience and resourcefulness position it well to navigate the opportunities and challenges of the transition.

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast series, host Thobani K speaks with Phathu Letsoalo from the Office of the Premier in Limpopo about the role of government in guiding a just transition to a low-carbon economy and preparing communities for the impacts of climate change. Reflecting on a recent Just Transition and Green Economy training programme, Letsoalo explains how the workshop deepened his understanding of the need to balance South Africa’s current energy realities with the long-term imperative to transition away from fossil fuels. He highlights the critical role of the Office of the Premier in supporting policy development and implementation across provincial departments and municipalities, ensuring that climate and development priorities are integrated into government planning.The discussion explores the risks associated with climate change, including environmental degradation, changing rainfall patterns, extreme weather events, and the impact these have on sectors such as agriculture and local economic development. Letsoalo stresses that failing to address these challenges could undermine sustainable growth and community resilience.At the same time, he identifies significant opportunities linked to the transition, particularly around skills development, innovation, and the emergence of new industries. From climate-smart agriculture to electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies, Letsoalo argues that the transition will require continuous learning and adaptation. He concludes by emphasising the importance of equipping future generations with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a changing economy and climate.

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast series, host Ntombi Tshabalala speaks with Nosisi du Toit, researcher at the North West Development Corporation, about the implications of the Just Transition for provincial economies, investment planning, and local industrial development in the North West Province. Du Toit explains how her work focuses on research, investment promotion, and analysing socio-economic trends to position the North West as a destination for investment across sectors such as mining, manufacturing, and agro-processing. Reflecting on a recent Just Transition and Green Economy training programme, she highlights the importance of understanding that the transition is ultimately about people, livelihoods, and local economic value chains—not only climate targets or the closure of coal plants.The conversation explores how provinces will experience the transition differently depending on their economic structures and energy dependencies. Du Toit raises concerns around exclusion within green procurement systems, particularly the limited participation of black-owned SMMEs and women-owned businesses in large-scale green economy projects.The episode also examines opportunities for the province to develop green economic hubs, strengthen skills development, and diversify its energy mix. Du Toit argues that South Africa should pursue a balanced approach that includes renewable energy alongside hydrogen and nuclear energy, particularly given the energy-intensive nature of mining and smelting industries that remain central to the North West economy.

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast series, host Ntombi Tshabalala speaks with Lilian Sefike, Unit Manager for Integrated Environmental Management at the Rustenburg Local Municipality, about the realities of implementing climate action and Just Transition strategies at local government level in the North West Province. Sefike explains how her work spans air quality monitoring, environmental impact assessments, climate change awareness, and environmental education within the municipality. Reflecting on a recent Just Transition and Green Economy training programme, she highlights the importance of understanding both the risks of transitioning to a low-carbon economy and the risks of failing to transition at all. She emphasises that climate change impacts are unavoidable and that municipalities must proactively prepare communities, particularly vulnerable groups, for the transition ahead.The discussion also explores how local governments can align municipal climate strategies with broader national frameworks, including the Presidential Climate Commission’s Just Transition Framework and South Africa’s Nationally Determined Contributions. Sefike stresses the importance of policy alignment, integrated planning, and mainstreaming climate considerations across municipal departments.The episode further examines key challenges facing municipalities, particularly the lack of funding for implementation despite growing policy support and strategic planning efforts. At the same time, Sefike points to emerging opportunities linked to green economy catalytic projects, cross-departmental collaboration, and the growing recognition that local government will play a central role in South Africa’s climate transition.

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast series, host Nothembi Mahlangu speaks with Is’haaq Akoon, Senior Manager for Climate Change at the City of Ekurhuleni, about how municipalities can translate climate policy into practical implementation through integrated planning, community-centred development, and Just Transition strategies. Akoon reflects on the key lessons from a recent Just Transition and Green Economy training programme, highlighting the importance of aligning national and provincial policy frameworks with local government implementation. The discussion explores how the City of Ekurhuleni is embedding Just Transition principles into its Climate Action Plan, with a focus on social protection, skills development, labour reskilling, and inclusive community participation.The conversation also examines major municipal challenges linked to economic restructuring, unemployment, informal labour vulnerability, and fragmented policy coordination, particularly in sectors connected to mining, manufacturing, transport, and waste management. At the same time, Akoon identifies significant opportunities in public transport expansion, waste-to-energy projects, recycling initiatives, methane reduction, health infrastructure upgrades, and pilot projects that can serve as “learning labs” for scaling future interventions.Throughout the episode, Akoon emphasises the importance of collaboration between municipalities, academia, private sector stakeholders, and institutions such as the Presidential Climate Commission to ensure that local climate action is evidence-based, coordinated, and capable of supporting a truly just and climate-resilient transition.

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast series, host Nothembi Mahlangu speaks with Motlanalo Mautla, Project Manager within the Environmental Resources and Waste Management Department at the City of Ekurhuleni, about how municipalities can embed Just Transition principles into waste management, environmental planning, and climate resilience strategies. Mautla explains how the City of Ekurhuleni is working to integrate sustainability into infrastructure planning, landfill management, recycling systems, and environmental compliance processes, while aligning these efforts with broader climate action goals. The conversation highlights how the Just Transition framework encourages “systems thinking” across departments, requiring collaboration between waste management, transport, energy, land use planning, and environmental management rather than silo-based approaches.The episode also explores practical opportunities linked to circular economy initiatives, waste diversion, methane reduction, composting, and the formal integration of waste pickers into municipal systems. Mautla emphasises that a truly just transition must remain people-centred, particularly in supporting vulnerable groups such as informal waste reclaimers and unemployed youth.The discussion further reflects on the major challenges facing municipalities, including increasing waste generation, limited landfill space, illegal dumping, ageing infrastructure, funding constraints, and gaps in environmental data systems. Despite these pressures, Mautla argues that municipalities have a critical opportunity to transform waste management into a driver of inclusive economic development, environmental protection, and climate resilience.

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast series, host Nothembi Mahlangu speaks with Dr Samukelisiwe Mdlalose, Manager for Environmental Management, about the role municipalities play in advancing a just transition and building climate resilience in Gauteng. Dr Mdlalose explains how environmental compliance, climate change planning, air quality management, and infrastructure development are deeply interconnected with economic growth, public health, and community wellbeing. The conversation explores how municipalities can integrate environmental considerations into planning processes from the outset to improve investor confidence, avoid costly non-compliance, and create more sustainable urban development pathways.The episode also highlights practical local initiatives already underway, including partnerships with universities, electronic waste recycling programmes, separation-at-source waste projects, urban agriculture initiatives, and environmental education campaigns in schools. Dr Mdlalose emphasises the importance of community participation, low-cost practical interventions, and collaboration with academic institutions and the private sector.The discussion further reflects on key challenges facing municipalities, including ageing infrastructure, limited funding, flood risks linked to urbanisation, and the need for greater investment in solar energy, rainwater harvesting, and climate-smart infrastructure. The episode concludes with reflections on future opportunities linked to agriculture, renewable energy, and the development of a proposed smart city corridor in Gauteng.

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast series, host Thobani K speaks with Modjadji Rangwato and Stanley Phahladira from the Capricorn District Municipality in Limpopo about the importance of embedding Just Transition principles into local government planning and implementation. Both guests reflect on how a recent JUST SA training workshop deepened their understanding of climate change, green economy planning, and the need for inclusive and restorative development approaches. The discussion explores how municipalities can mainstream climate change and Just Transition principles into Integrated Development Plans (IDPs), environmental planning, disaster management, and infrastructure development.The conversation also highlights key challenges facing municipalities, including silo planning, limited financial and human resources, policy misalignment, and the need for stronger political buy-in and stakeholder collaboration. At the same time, the guests identify significant opportunities around renewable energy, agriculture, and coordinated planning approaches such as the District Development Model.Throughout the episode, Rangwato and Phahladira emphasize that successful implementation depends on collaboration across all spheres of government, partnerships with communities and industry, and ensuring that no one is left behind as South Africa transitions toward a greener and more climate-resilient economy.

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast, we speak with Avantika Goswami, Programme Manager for Climate Change at the Centre for Science and Environment in India, about the evolving landscape of climate finance and development in the Global South.Drawing on her work and recent report Beyond Climate Finance, Goswami argues that increasing financial flows alone is not sufficient. Instead, she calls for deeper systemic reforms to global financial and trade systems, alongside stronger South–South cooperation, to enable equitable and effective climate action.The conversation explores the role of developing countries in shaping a new climate and development agenda, the challenges of accessing finance and technology, and the importance of solidarity and civil society in advancing a shared Global South vision for green industrialisation and sustainable growth. Please note: due to unforeseen circumstances during recording, the audio quality in parts of this episode is compromised. We appreciate your understanding.

In this episode , host Thobani Khumalo speaks with Newton Masuku, National Spokesperson of the South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU), about the role of the Just Transition Labour Centre (JTLC) in strengthening labour’s voice in the climate transition.Masuku reflects on why independent research from a working-class perspective is essential as South Africa moves toward a low-carbon economy. He discusses the potential impacts of technological change and automation on employment, the importance of social protection for workers displaced by the transition, and the need for a stronger role for the state in driving green industrialisation.The conversation also explores the challenges facing the labour movement today and the future role of the JTLC as a platform for research, education, and policy engagement that equips trade unions to participate more effectively in shaping a just transition for workers and communities.

In this episode, we speak with Waheed Hoosen of HOSPERSA (an affiliate of FEDUSA) and Vice President within FEDUSA responsible for youth and climate change.Waheed explains why the Just Transition Labour Centre (JTLC) matters for organised labour: it strengthens unions’ ability to produce evidence-based policy positions for collective bargaining, social dialogue and legislation. He discusses why workers and communities will be among the most affected by the transition, the need for government leadership, and the importance of moving from research into implementation—while ensuring decent work, labour rights, and real pathways for re-skilling and social protection.

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast Series in the JUST SA series, host Elize Hattingh records two conversations in Kimberley with officials from the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT), exploring how the province is turning Just Transition policy into practical economic strategy.First, Elize speaks with Riaan Warie and Hendrik Louw about the Northern Cape’s renewable energy potential, the emerging Northern Cape Industrial Corridor, and ambitions for a green hydrogen cluster linked to the Boegoebaai port development. They also share practical lessons on investment planning, financing, and strategic partnerships required to unlock large-scale projects.In the second interview, Elize speaks with Reratile Mathibe about the “just” element of decarbonisation, and the opportunities for climate-smart agriculture, employment, and skills planning in a province navigating both economic potential and persistent inequality.About JUST SAJUST SA is a five-year programme supporting South Africa’s transition toward an environmentally sustainable, climate-resilient, low-carbon and socially just economy. At national level, the programme advances the implementation of the Just Transition Framework and facilitates meaningful dialogue. At provincial and local levels—particularly in Mpumalanga—JUST SA supports stakeholders to design inclusive development pathways and diversify local economies. The programme also advances research, policy, and community engagement on the rehabilitation of coal mining land and water.JUST SA is implemented by GIZ in partnership with TIPS, NBI, and WWF South Africa, on behalf of the German Government through the International Climate Initiative (IKI), in close collaboration with Indalo Inclusive, the Mpumalanga Green Cluster Agency, the JET PMU, the Presidential Climate Commission, and other partners.

In this episode, we speak with Rudi Dicks, Head of the Project Management Office in the Office of the President, about the role and future of South Africa’s Just Transition Labour Centre.Rudi explains why evidence-based research, policy development, and worker representation are essential during complex climate and energy transitions. The conversation explores how the Labour Centre can support organised labour, shape industrial policy, and ensure that workers and communities are not left behind as South Africa decarbonises its economy.

In this episode, host Elize Hattingh speaks with Ms Nthuseng Rabohome from John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality, based in Kuruman in the Northern Cape.They discuss how a mining-dependent, rural district with nearly 300 villages is grappling with climate impacts such as heatwaves, droughts, floods and fires. Ntuseng reflects on challenges around waste management, limited infrastructure, traditional land allocation practices, and deep energy poverty – and how these all shape the pace and nature of the Just Transition.About JUST SAJUST SA is a five-year programme supporting South Africa’s transition toward an environmentally sustainable, climate-resilient, low-carbon and socially just economy. At national level, the programme advances the implementation of the Just Transition Framework and facilitates meaningful dialogue. At provincial and local levels—particularly in Mpumalanga—JUST SA supports stakeholders to design inclusive development pathways and diversify local economies. The programme also advances research, policy, and community engagement on the rehabilitation of coal mining land and water.JUST SA is implemented by GIZ in partnership with TIPS, NBI, and WWF South Africa, on behalf of the German Government through the International Climate Initiative (IKI), in close collaboration with Indalo Inclusive, the Mpumalanga Green Cluster Agency, the JET PMU, the Presidential Climate Commission, and other partners.

In this episode, host Elize Hattingh speaks to Mzwandile Raymond Mene, a local government official from Kimberley, about the vital role municipalities play in climate action, decarbonisation, and building a just and inclusive economy.Recorded during the JUST SA capacity-building workshop in Kimberley, the conversation explores how local government can turn policy into practice, why youth inclusion and fair access to opportunities are essential, and how collaborative governance (not siloed planning) can strengthen climate adaptation, service delivery, and economic diversification.About JUST SAJUST SA is a five-year programme supporting South Africa’s transition toward an environmentally sustainable, climate-resilient, low-carbon and socially just economy. At national level, the programme advances the implementation of the Just Transition Framework and facilitates meaningful dialogue. At provincial and local levels—particularly in Mpumalanga—JUST SA supports stakeholders to design inclusive development pathways and diversify local economies. The programme also advances research, policy, and community engagement on the rehabilitation of coal mining land and water.JUST SA is implemented by GIZ in partnership with TIPS, NBI, and WWF South Africa, on behalf of the German Government through the International Climate Initiative (IKI), in close collaboration with Indalo Inclusive, the Mpumalanga Green Cluster Agency, the JET PMU, the Presidential Climate Commission, and other partners.

In this episode, we travel to Kimberley for a two-day JUST SA capacity-building workshop with provincial and local government officials. Host Nothembi Mahlangu speaks to Jessica Makgetla from the Northern Cape Economic Development, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (NEDA) and Kabelo Moremi from the Office of the Premier.Together, they unpack why it is crucial for provincial and local government to understand climate impacts, decarbonisation imperatives, and the just transition. They reflect on the training experience, discuss investment opportunities in renewable energy, highlight policy and planning challenges, and explore how the Northern Cape can position itself as a leader in South Africa’s green economy.About JUST SA JUST SA is a five-year programme supporting South Africa’s transition toward an environmentally sustainable, climate-resilient, low-carbon and socially just economy. At national level, the programme advances the implementation of the Just Transition Framework and facilitates meaningful dialogue. At provincial and local levels—particularly in Mpumalanga—JUST SA supports stakeholders to design inclusive development pathways and diversify local economies. The programme also advances research, policy, and community engagement on the rehabilitation of coal mining land and water.JUST SA is implemented by GIZ in partnership with TIPS, NBI, and WWF South Africa, on behalf of the German Government through the International Climate Initiative (IKI), in close collaboration with Indalo Inclusive, the Mpumalanga Green Cluster Agency, the JET PMU, the Presidential Climate Commission, and other partners.

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast, recorded at the Just Transition Labour Centre, host Thobani Khumalo speaks with Lebogang Mulaisi, Head of Research and Policy at the Presidential Climate Commission. Mulaisi explains why the JTLC was created by trade unions: to build a trusted, worker-led evidence base on South Africa’s transition, strengthen collective bargaining beyond wages, and ensure workers and communities are informed and protected as coal regions face disruption.The discussion tackles core transition dilemmas: how a coal-dependent, ageing energy system shapes South Africa’s vulnerabilities; why green industrialisation offers real economic opportunity rather than a top-down agenda from the Global North; and what structural shifts are needed to create new sectors, jobs, and inclusive ownership models. Mulaisi also emphasises the importance of African regional coordination, arguing that the transition must deepen continental solidarity, technology sharing, and integrated industrial policy—rather than intensify national competition.Looking ahead, she sees the JTLC becoming a model for the continent: a hub of worker-driven research, strategic insight, and policy influence that places employment, equity, and participation at the centre of a fair and prosperous green transition.

At the Reclaiming Industrial Policy for the People conference—convened by the TIDE Centre, Trade and Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS), and the Transnational Institute (TNI)—host Thobani K speaks with filmmaker, futurist, and Princeton visiting lecturer Indrani Pal-Chaudri. From her early discovery by David Bowie to founding Open Origin and the Shakti Regeneration Institute, Indrani makes a powerful case that imagination is an essential but overlooked component of green structural transformation. She explores how storytelling, indigenous wisdom, and visual activism can challenge extractive “green growth” models and open space for regenerative, people-centred development.Their discussion moves from art to action: rethinking film distribution outside the constraints of Hollywood, using creative narratives to mobilise civil society, and applying business-model discipline to scale practical climate solutions—from green energy for AI data centres to community-embedded models of decarbonisation. Anchored in the wider aims of the conference, Indrani argues that science, technology, and markets follow stories—and that by reclaiming narrative power, societies can accelerate inclusive industrial policy and imagine futures worth building.

Host Thobani K speaks with David Mparutsa, Head of Enterprise & Supply Chain Development at Absa Corporate & Investment Bank, on how Africa can move from exporting raw minerals to building competitive regional industries. Drawing on insights from the 2025 TIPS Forum, Mparutsa unpacks why intra-African trade remains low, the case for a hub-and-spoke model across SADC, and the fundamentals—energy, ports, roads, skills, and coordinated policy—needed to unlock beneficiation and manufacturing.They also explore how finance can pull SMEs into these value chains: Absa’s ESD and supply-chain finance approaches that lend against future cash flows, sector marketplaces like Made in Africa, and practical trade missions that connect smaller suppliers to corporate demand. It’s a grounded roadmap for turning Africa’s critical minerals into inclusive growth through collaboration, specialization, and smarter financing.

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast Series, recorded at the 2025 TIPS Forum, host Dr. Michael Hector sits down with former Minister of Trade and Industry Dr. Rob Davies to unpack the opportunities and challenges of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) for South Africa and the continent.From trade rules to climate policy, and from industrial strategy to continental cooperation, this episode offers a candid, in-depth look at how Africa can leverage integration for sustainable, shared growth.Visit www.tips.org.za for more research from Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies.

As South Africa moves towards a greener economy, the Just Transition agenda has become critical in ensuring that no one is left behind. In this special edition of the TIPS podcast series, Elize Hattingh speaks with participants from the Eastern Cape cohort of a recent TIPS training initiative. This program, part of the multi-year Just Transition to a Decarbonised Economy for South Africa (JUST SA) initiative, equips provincial and local government officials with the tools needed to drive an inclusive, sustainable future.Tune in to hear first-hand insights from the training, reflections on the challenges and opportunities of the transition, and how South Africa is shaping a just and evidence-based approach to decarbonisation. This episode is the first part of the full selection of interviews from the Eastern Cape. You can find the second part here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2340124/episodes/17574014For more knowledge on the Just Transition, visit the TIPS open knowledge portal:https://www.tips.org.za/just-transition

As South Africa moves towards a greener economy, the Just Transition agenda has become critical in ensuring that no one is left behind. In this special edition of the TIPS podcast series, Elize Hattingh speaks with participants from the Eastern Cape cohort of a recent TIPS training initiative. This program, part of the multi-year Just Transition to a Decarbonised Economy for South Africa (JUST SA) initiative, equips provincial and local government officials with the tools needed to drive an inclusive, sustainable future.Tune in to hear first-hand insights from the training, reflections on the challenges and opportunities of the transition, and how South Africa is shaping a just and evidence-based approach to decarbonisation. This episode is the second part of the full selection of interviews from the Eastern Cape. You can find the first part here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2340124/episodes/17574023For more knowledge on the Just Transition, visit the TIPS open knowledge portal:https://www.tips.org.za/just-transition

As South Africa moves towards a greener economy, the Just Transition agenda has become critical in ensuring that no one is left behind. In this special edition of the TIPS podcast series, Elize Hattingh speaks with participants from the Western Cape cohort of a recent TIPS training initiative. This program, part of the multi-year Just Transition to a Decarbonised Economy for South Africa (JUST SA) initiative, equips provincial and local government officials with the tools needed to drive an inclusive, sustainable future.Tune in to hear first-hand insights from the training, reflections on the challenges and opportunities of the transition, and how South Africa is shaping a just and evidence-based approach to decarbonisation. This episode is the first part of the full selection of interviews from the Western Cape. You can find the second part here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2340124/episodes/17536984-just-transition-to-a-decarbonised-economy-for-south-africa-just-sa-western-cape-edition-prt-2For more knowledge on the Just Transition, visit the TIPS open knowledge portal:https://www.tips.org.za/just-transition

As South Africa moves towards a greener economy, the Just Transition agenda has become critical in ensuring that no one is left behind. In this special edition of the TIPS podcast series, Elize Hattingh speaks with participants from the Western Cape cohort of a recent TIPS training initiative. This program, part of the multi-year Just Transition to a Decarbonised Economy for South Africa (JUST SA) initiative, equips provincial and local government officials with the tools needed to drive an inclusive, sustainable future.Tune in to hear first-hand insights from the training, reflections on the challenges and opportunities of the transition, and how South Africa is shaping a just and evidence-based approach to decarbonisation. This episode is the second part of the full selection of interviews from the Western Cape. You can find the first part here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2340124/episodes/17536969-just-transition-to-a-decarbonised-economy-for-south-africa-just-sa-western-cape-edition-prt-1For more knowledge on the Just Transition, visit the TIPS open knowledge portal:https://www.tips.org.za/just-transition

In this episode of TIPS Talk, we sit down with Cheryl Phillips, Senior Manager of Economic Development and Tourism at Drakenstein Municipality, to explore how local government can lead in making the transition to a greener, more inclusive economy.Hosted by Elize Hattingh, the conversation highlights how Drakenstein—one of the Western Cape’s most dynamic municipalities—is integrating Just Transition priorities into its planning, partnerships, and service delivery.Cheryl offers valuable insights into how municipalities can balance economic growth, environmental responsibility, and social equity—grounded in local context.Learn more at www.tips.org.za

As South Africa moves towards a greener economy, the Just Transition agenda has become critical in ensuring that no one is left behind. In this special edition of the TIPS podcast series, Ntombifuthi Tshabalala speaks with participants from the Free State cohort of a recent TIPS training initiative. This program, part of the multi-year Just Transition to a Decarbonised Economy for South Africa (JUST SA) initiative, equips provincial and local government officials with the tools needed to drive an inclusive, sustainable future.Tune in to hear first-hand insights from the training, reflections on the challenges and opportunities of the transition, and how South Africa is shaping a just and evidence-based approach to decarbonisation. For more knowledge on the Just Transition, visit the TIPS open knowledge portal:https://www.tips.org.za/just-transition

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast Series, we explore the role of young people in South Africa’s just transition and what the green economy could offer in terms of jobs, skills, and long-term opportunity.Host Lesego Moshikaro-Amani speaks with Dr. Sinazo Ntsonge, a sustainable development economist at TIPS and former consultant to the Presidency, about how the country can meaningfully include youth in the shift toward a more sustainable and inclusive economy.Together, they unpack:The reforms needed in education and training systemsHow to make green jobs viable, aspirational careersThe evolving role of TVET colleges in a greener skills landscapeThe importance of advocacy, partnerships, and fundingWhy youth must be seen as co-creators, not just recipients, of the transitionWhether you’re a policymaker, educator, or youth advocate, this episode offers fresh insight into building a future that puts young people at the center of economic transformation.Visit www.tips.org.za for more from Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies.

In this episode hosted by Siyamthanda Nyulu, four dynamic South African women entrepreneurs discuss the challenges and opportunities of running small businesses in the green economy. The panel features Sibongile Sithole of MLPC Projects, Nomthandazo Mpande of Phoki Holdings, Susan Kone of PWK Waste Management, and Phumudzo Muthanyi of MicGalaw. Each woman brings a unique perspective from sectors like solar energy, disability-inclusive consulting, waste recycling, and sustainable fashion. The conversation highlights key barriers such as limited access to finance, technology, and markets, especially for township-based and rural enterprises. The participants also emphasize how these challenges are compounded for entrepreneurs with disabilities and women operating in underserved communities.Despite the obstacles, each guest shares how their work is actively addressing environmental and social issues. From solar energy installations and recycling cooperatives to youth clean-up campaigns and upcycled fashion products, their businesses are rooted in local impact and climate action. They call for more inclusive support from government and private stakeholders—especially in the form of financial backing, market access, incubation, and training tailored to their contexts. Encouragingly, some have received early-stage support from private foundations and enterprise development programs, but all agree that a more robust and sustained effort from the public sector is essential to grow and sustain their work, create jobs, and build a more circular, equitable economy.

In this episode, recorded at the 2024 TIPS Forum, TIPS Senior Economist Lesego Moshikaro-Amani sits down with Elize Hattingh, a sustainability specialist, and Amélia Machava, a researcher and teacher at Eduardo Mondlane University.Lesego Moshikaro-Amani joined TIPS in July 2019. Lesego earned a Master’s degree in Economics specialising in Development Economics from the University of Cape Town (UCT). Prior to joining TIPS, Lesego worked as a Crisis Response Fund (CRF) researcher and data analyst at CIVICUS and as a graduate research assistant at the Land Restitution Evaluation Study (LRES), launched by SALDRU.  Her expertise lies in industrial policy, battery energy storage value chains and the emerging sector of new energy vehicles (NEVs) in South Africa, including a strong emphasis on skill development within the NEV industry. Other areas of focus include skills development for industry and promoting employment in the development of SMMEs.Elize Hattingh is a sustainability expert with over 15 years of experience promoting sustainable development, particularly in Africa. She holds a Master's Degree in Sustainable Development and Management from Stellenbosch University’s School of Public Leadership in partnership with the Sustainability Institute. She has actively participated in numerous initiatives to decarbonise the economy and supported marginalised groups such as youth, women, and black-owned enterprises. She founded Green Talent, a sustainability career consultancy, and has been involved in various roles, including business coaching and developing green economy entrepreneurial development curricula. She works with Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS) as a Sustainable Researcher focusing on sustainable growth and the green economy. Her previous roles include developing a Green Economy Literacy Program for the Youth Bridge Trust and business coaching for Future Females Business School.Machava is a teacher at Eduardo Mondlane University, Mozambique, where she is a PhD student in Development and Society.  She has a Master's degree in Rural Sociology and Development Management from the same university. Her research focuses on perceptions of Nacala Special Economic Zone’s contribution to local socio-economic development. Her other research interests focus on development policies, particularly the Special Economic Zones policy and industrialisation in the Southern African Development Community.

Nokwanda Maseko is a Senior Economist at TIPS. Her work at TIPS is at the intersection of industrial policy, gender and the just transition. Her recent publications include an analysis of the petroleum-based transport value chain for the Sector Jobs Resilience plans and technical reports for the Presidential Climate Change Commission on gender and inequality in the just transition. Before joining TIPS, she worked as a Budget Analyst at the National Treasury and Assistant Director at the national Economic Development Department (EDD) focused on industrial policy.Hosted by TIPS Communications Officer Nondwe Majundana. Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS) is an independent, non-profit, economic research institution established in 1996 to support economic policy development. TIPS undertakes quantitative and qualitative research, project management, dialogue facilitation, capacity building and knowledge sharing. Its two areas of focus are trade and inclusive industrial policy; and sustainable development.

As South Africa moves towards a greener economy, the Just Transition agenda has become critical in ensuring that no one is left behind. In this special edition of the TIPS podcast series, Siyamthanda Nyulu speaks with participants from the Gautrain cohort of a recent TIPS training initiative. This program, part of the multi-year Just Transition to a Decarbonised Economy for South Africa (JUST SA) initiative, equips provincial and local government officials with the tools needed to drive an inclusive, sustainable future.Tune in to hear first-hand insights from the training, reflections on the challenges and opportunities of the transition, and how South Africa is shaping a just and evidence-based approach to decarbonisation. For more knowledge on the Just Transition, visit the TIPS open knowledge portal:https://www.tips.org.za/just-transition

An artist, philanthropist, and avid upcycling and vintage enthusiast, Vas Putter is the founder and curator at Planet Art People Pty Ltd. After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Durban-Westville (now UKZN), Vas began tutoring first-year Fine Art students in History of Art and Theory of Art. In 1994/95, she contributed to the Peace and Reconciliation through Art mural project across KZN during the Truth and Reconciliation Talks, which led to a career as a full-time muralist, display artist, chillout DJ, and event organizer.In 2009, Vas became a dedicated volunteer for people living with disabilities, earning The National Tribune Award for Women in the Disability Sector in 2011. Motivated by social and environmental concerns surrounding unethical production and recycling practices, Vas launched various upcycling initiatives and eco-tourism ventures within her community in 2020, promoting sustainability and eco-conscious consumerism. In 2022, she was the runner-up in the UN Women and Climate “She Reigns Tech Award.”One of her most recent projects was for the Annual Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies Forum in Pretoria, where she crafted table centerpieces entirely out of discarded materials. Each piece tells a story about barriers faced by marginalized entrepreneurs in the green economy landscape.Hosted by TIPS Communications Officer Nondwe Majundana. Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS) is an independent, non-profit, economic research institution established in 1996 to support economic policy development. TIPS undertakes quantitative and qualitative research, project management, dialogue facilitation, capacity building and knowledge sharing. Its two areas of focus are trade and inclusive industrial policy; and sustainable development.

Dr Shawn Cunningham is a process consultant working in the field of innovation and competitiveness improvement of the private sector. He supports a range of institutions, leaders and advisors internationally on topics such as making decisions under conditions of uncertainty or complexity, strengthening organizations or conducting learning processes through ongoing search, discovery and adjustment efforts.Shawn is The Technological Change and Innovation System Observatory for TIPS, a project which aims to track and create awareness of disruptive innovation and discontinuous technological change by organisations in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. aims to track and create awareness of disruptive innovation and discontinuous technological change by organisations in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors.Hosted by TIPS Communications Officer Nondwe Majundana. Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS) is an independent, non-profit, economic research institution established in 1996 to support economic policy development. TIPS undertakes quantitative and qualitative research, project management, dialogue facilitation, capacity building and knowledge sharing. Its two areas of focus are trade and inclusive industrial policy; and sustainable development.

Seutame Maimele is an Economist: Sustainable Growth at Trade and Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS). His work focuses on global climate change policies and trade, designing climate-compatible value chains for carbon-intensive industries in South Africa and Africa. He also works extensively on the just transition in South Africa.Hosted by TIPS Communications Officer Nondwe Majundana. Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS) is an independent, non-profit, economic research institution established in 1996 to support economic policy development. TIPS undertakes quantitative and qualitative research, project management, dialogue facilitation, capacity building and knowledge sharing. Its two areas of focus are trade and inclusive industrial policy; and sustainable development.

Gaylor Montmasson-Clair, Senior Economist at Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS) and leads the organizations work on sustainability and just transition. He is also the facilitator of the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM) and a Research Associate and Guest Lecturer at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development (CCRED) at the University of Johannesburg. Hosted by TIPS Communications Officer Nondwe Majundana. Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS) is an independent, non-profit, economic research institution established in 1996 to support economic policy development. TIPS undertakes quantitative and qualitative research, project management, dialogue facilitation, capacity building and knowledge sharing. Its two areas of focus are trade and inclusive industrial policy; and sustainable development.