Black entrepreneurs thrive under 30 years of democracy

South Africa’s celebration of 30 years of constitutional democracy and the attainment of freedom is more than a historical milestone; it is a tangible reality lived and appreciated by many citizens, including the owners of JA Engineering. 

As the nation observes Freedom Month in April, the success of this Gauteng-based firm serves as a testament to the transformative power of liberation.

Established in 1987 by Jerry Alexandra, JA Engineering is now owned by a consortium of black South Africans—a transition that would have been nearly impossible under the restrictive laws of the past.

Today, the company specialises in providing advanced engineering solutions tailored for the coal mining industry, proving that local black-owned enterprises can lead in highly technical sectors.

Speaking to Vuk’uzenzele in an interview, the company’s Director for Business Development, Mbulelo Nkasana, said freedom was worth fighting for because it allows local entrepreneurs to dream and to put their dreams into action so that they can create opportunities for themselves and their communities.

“We value the gains that have been made through the attainment of freedom and democracy," he explained. "We believe that black entrepreneurs are better off today than they were during apartheid because we are now able to create jobs locally and do business internationally.”

The journey to ownership was a significant milestone for Nkasana and his partners, Matimba Mahange, and two other members of their consortium. 

This move was made possible through the support of the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), which provided the necessary funding to acquire the business and enable its growth.

JA Engineering has become a vital player in the South African economy, employing over 300 people. Its impact extends beyond its own payroll, as the firm collaborates with local suppliers for the parts needed to manufacture its machines, thereby fostering a broader ecosystem of job creation.

The company supplies comprehensive underground mining solutions, including continuous miners, shuttle cars, roof bolters, and feeder breakers.

“Coal is the bedrock of our economy. Most of the energy sector relies on coal, which is mined by our customers. It is important to showcase that black South African entrepreneurs can support the growth of our modern economy,” he said.

Trading on the global stage

Under its new leadership, JA Engineering has expanded its reach significantly. Previously, the company’s international footprint was limited primarily to Australia. Today, it participates in the global economy through platforms such as the Southern African Development Community, the Group of Twenty, and the BRICS expanded bloc, which is an influential intergovernmental organisation comprising 10 major emerging and developing economies—Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

“It is important that South Africa maintains the bilateral and multilateral relations it has with other countries,” Nkasana said.

He highlighted that India is set to open approximately 160 new underground mining sections.

Being fellow BRICS members ensures that South Africa and India can exchange expertise and support in the coal mining space.

The company now successfully supplies products to customers across India and Europe.

Industry engagement and future skills

The company remains active in critical industry forums, participating in the Mining Indaba in both 2025 and 2026.

“There is clear alignment in the importance of preserving the mining industry because the industry ensures that companies such as ours remain sustainable.

The Mining Indaba is a platform where we get to engage with governments, our current and potential customers, and it is also an environment where important issues such as skills development and funding are discussed to help businesses in the mining sector grow. 

It allows us to showcase our business offerings as well,” he said.

Furthermore, JA Engineering recently participated in the 2026 Proudly South African Buy Local Summit and Expo to enhance its brand awareness.

To ensure a legacy of technical expertise, the company provides internships to engineering students within the provinces where it operates, bridging the gap between academic learning and industrial application. 

JA Engineering can be reached at www.jae.co.za

Did you know?

The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) provides funding support to meet developmental goals in industrial sectors. 

For more information, visit: www.idc.co.za.

Freedom Month:

In 2026, South Africa celebrates the 30th anniversary of its Constitution alongside Freedom Month in April, a period that commemorates the 1994 transition to democracy by honouring liberation heroes and the supreme law that continues to guarantee human rights and unity for all citizens today.