TIPS Podcast

Hosted by Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies

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Aug 2026

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EN-ZA

About the show

Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS) is an independent, non-profit, economic research institution established in 1996 to support economic policy development. Dive into a wealth of economic research and industrial policy insights from our researchers. Listen to the body of research today and empower yourself with knowledge on technological change, the just transition, industry data, trade trends, and much more.

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42 recent

August 10, 202619 min

JUST SA KwaZulu-Natal - Bhekani Hadebe

In this episode of the Tips Podcast series, host Thobani K speaks with Bhekani Hadebe , Acting Senior Manager: HV Substations at eThekwini Municipality , about the practical challenges and opportunities involved in preparing municipal electricity infrastructure for South Africa’s Just Energy Transition. Hadebe discusses the importance of maintaining and modernising electricity grids so they can accommodate renewable energy, battery storage and the two-way flow of electricity between consumers and municipal networks. He highlights practical initiatives including installing solar PV at substations, exploring opportunities to repurpose existing infrastructure for renewable energy and battery storage, and building awareness among municipal staff and communities about emerging opportunities in the energy transition. The conversation also explores significant challenges, including maintenance backlogs, limited municipal funding, potential revenue pressures as customers increasingly generate their own electricity, and the employment impacts associated with moving away from coal-based energy. At the same time, Hadebe identifies opportunities for municipalities to procure electricity from independent power producers, diversify their energy supply and develop new approaches to tariffs and energy trading. The episode further examines the potential of microgrids, energy wheeling, electric vehicle infrastructure, green hydrogen and smart-grid technologies. Hadebe argues that modernising municipal electricity networks can expand energy access, create new skills and business opportunities, and build more resilient and flexible energy systems as South Africa transitions towards a lower-carbon future.

July 30, 202630 min

Climate Resilience Beyond the Forecast: early warnings, technology & labour policies for stronger smallholder farming

In this episode of the TIPS podcast series, host Thobani K is joined by Akhona Myataza , Dr Michael Hector , and Gillian Chigumira , economists at TIPS, to discuss new research examining the impacts of climate change on employment, livelihoods, and economic resilience in South Africa. Drawing on three complementary studies, the conversation explores how climate change affects workers, small-scale farmers, and vulnerable communities, while highlighting practical policy interventions that can support a Just Transition. The discussion examines the growing frequency of extreme weather events, the importance of improving climate data accessibility and early warning systems, and the structural challenges that prevent accurate forecasts from translating into effective action. The guests also explore how climate change threatens agricultural livelihoods, particularly for farm workers and small-scale farmers who face limited access to finance, technology, and social protection. They argue that strengthening active labour market policies, expanding skills development, investing in climate-smart agriculture, and improving municipal infrastructure will be essential for building resilience. Throughout the episode, the researchers emphasise the importance of collaboration between government, industry, researchers, and communities to ensure that climate adaptation measures are practical, equitable, and capable of protecting livelihoods while supporting sustainable economic development. This research builds on research conducted in 2019/20. This includes the National Employment Vulnerability Assessment; Sector Jobs Resilience Plans (SJRPs) for five value chains particularly likely to be affected by the Just Transition; and the SJRP Toolbox: Summary for Policy Makers. This updated research was funded by UK-PACT. The Sector Jobs Resilience Plans are available on the TIPS website. Podcast Credits Executive Producer & Editorial Reviewer: Nokwanda Maseko Host, Creative Director, Audio Recording, Graphic Design & Social Media Distribution: Thobani K Guests: Akhona Myataza, Gillian Chigumira and Dr Michael Hector Question Development: Akhona Myataza, Gillian Chigumira, Dr Michael Hector and Thobani K Audio Editing & Engineering: Richard Rumney

June 20, 202615 min

JUST SA KwaZulu-Natal - Sindi Shozi

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast series, host Thobani K speaks with Sindi Shozi , Chief Engineer for Advanced Metering Infrastructure at the eThekwini Municipality , about the practical role that technology, infrastructure planning, and energy management can play in advancing a Just Energy Transition. Shozi explains how her work focuses on strategic planning, smart metering systems, energy data management, infrastructure performance, and stakeholder engagement. Drawing on her experience in both municipal government and Eskom, she reflects on how a Just Transition can be integrated into day-to-day decision-making through equitable access to technology, energy efficiency programmes, and sustainable infrastructure development. She highlights the importance of ensuring that low-income and historically underserved communities are not left behind as municipalities modernise their energy systems. The conversation also explores the importance of skills development and inclusion within the energy sector. Shozi discusses her involvement in mentoring programmes and professional networks that support women and young professionals, arguing that the transition must be socially inclusive as well as environmentally sustainable. The episode further examines key challenges facing municipalities, including energy security concerns, infrastructure constraints, revenue pressures arising from increased adoption of renewable energy technologies, and shortages of specialised skills in emerging fields such as battery storage, smart grids, and green hydrogen. At the same time, Shozi identifies significant opportunities linked to smart metering, renewable energy integration, climate finance, independent power procurement, and the growing role of municipalities in shaping South Africa’s energy future.

June 20, 202629 min

JUST SA KwaZulu-Natal - Dr Bonginkosi Dlamini

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast series, host Thobani K speaks with Dr Bonginkosi Robert Dlamini , Chief Director for Environmental Management in the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) , about the opportunities and challenges of implementing a Just Transition in one of South Africa’s most diverse provinces. Dr Dlamini outlines the wide-ranging responsibilities of his department, which include climate change planning, biodiversity conservation, coastal management, waste management, air quality monitoring, environmental impact assessments, compliance enforcement, and community environmental awareness programmes. He explains how KwaZulu-Natal works with municipalities to integrate environmental priorities into Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) and climate response strategies while supporting local adaptation and resilience initiatives. Reflecting on a recent Just Transition and Green Economy training programme, Dlamini emphasises the importance of ensuring that the transition is truly “just” by including rural communities, vulnerable groups, and historically disadvantaged populations in planning and decision-making processes. He highlights the need for meaningful public participation and equitable access to the benefits of new green economy opportunities. The discussion also explores one of the most complex challenges facing the Just Transition: how to support communities that currently depend on coal mining and other carbon-intensive industries. Dlamini argues that while the transition offers important environmental and economic benefits, policymakers must carefully consider how local communities can continue to benefit when industries change or relocate. He concludes by stressing the importance of long-term planning, stakeholder engagement, and continuous learning to ensure that no community is left behind as South Africa moves towards a more sustainable future.

June 19, 202616 min

JUST SA North West - Omogolo Tlape

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast series, host Nothembi Mahlangu speaks with Omogolo Tlape , Deputy Director for Macroeconomic Analysis at the North West Provincial Treasury , about the role of economic planning and evidence-based policymaking in supporting a Just Transition and green economy. Tlape explains how his work focuses on analysing socioeconomic and macroeconomic trends, assessing municipal development plans, and supporting budget allocation decisions across the province. Reflecting on a recent Just Transition and Green Economy training programme, he describes the experience as an eye-opener that broadened his understanding of the links between economic development, environmental sustainability, and social wellbeing. He highlights the importance of recognising that the impacts of climate change are often felt most acutely by vulnerable communities, despite their limited contribution to global emissions. The conversation explores how the North West Province can position itself to benefit from emerging green economy opportunities through strategic planning, research, and investment attraction. Tlape emphasises the need for stronger collaboration between government, universities, and the private sector to generate the knowledge and innovation required for a successful transition. The discussion also examines key challenges, including skills shortages, the need to modernise higher education curricula, unemployment risks associated with economic restructuring, and competition for land and resources. Throughout the episode, Tlape argues that implementation, measurement, and continuous learning will be critical to ensuring that the transition delivers both environmental and socioeconomic benefits for communities across the province.

June 19, 202623 min

JUST SA Mpumalanga - Edwin Mametja

In this episode of the TIPS Podcast series, host Elize Hattingh speaks with Edwin Mametja from the Nkangala District Municipality about the realities of implementing a Just Transition in one of South Africa’s most coal-dependent regions. Situated at the heart of the country’s coal-based economy and home to several power stations, Nkangala faces both the challenges and opportunities associated with the transition to a low-carbon future. Mametja, who leads climate change, biodiversity, and Just Transition initiatives within the district, discusses the municipality’s efforts to translate policy into practical action. The conversation explores how Nkangala is supporting economic diversification, developing green economy opportunities, and building the capacity of local municipalities, councillors, and communities to participate in the transition. He highlights the importance of partnerships with organisations such as the Presidential Climate Commission, the National Business Initiative (NBI), GIZ, and other development partners in driving implementation on the ground. The discussion also examines the social and economic risks associated with the decommissioning of coal-fired power stations, particularly the impact on jobs and local livelihoods. Mametja emphasises that a successful transition must be inclusive, with a strong focus on community participation, youth development, and gender empowerment. He further reflects on innovative programmes supporting women in climate-smart agriculture and the municipality’s efforts to mainstream gender considerations into climate and Just Transition planning. Throughout the episode, he underscores the importance of collaboration, peer learning, and ensuring that no one is left behind as South Africa moves towards a more sustainable and resilient economy.

June 3, 202616 min

JUST SA Polokwane — Kashrinda Mailula

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.

June 2, 202613 min

JUST SA Polokwane — Fhumulani Perseverance Angwenyi

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.

June 2, 20268 min

JUST SA Polokwane — Phathu Letsoalo

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.

May 23, 20267 min

JUST SA North West - Nosisi du Toit

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.