Rebuilding SA’s infrastructure with local solutions

Bani Kgosana, Chief Revenue Officer at Pragma, explains how South Africa can overcome its infrastructure challenges by tapping into homegrown tech and expertise. With Pragma’s innovative asset management solutions, local contractors, and a focus on scheduled maintenance, the country can revitalise its government-owned assets and drive sustainable growth. In this Q&A, Kgosana shares the potential for transformation across key sectors like healthcare, water management and logistics.

South Africa is facing a significant challenge with its deteriorating infrastructure. What do you believe is the key to addressing this issue?

The key to turning around South Africa’s infrastructure decline lies in leveraging locally developed technology and expertise. We have an abundance of local talent and solutions, and if we can harness this, we can address crucial challenges like water management, healthcare, and logistics. For instance, we’ve already seen the positive impact of scheduled maintenance at Eskom, where it led to over six months without load shedding, demonstrating the real difference that proper maintenance can make.

Can you tell us more about the solutions Pragma has developed to address these challenges?

Pragma specialises in enterprise asset management, with our flagship solution, On Key, enabling the efficient management of maintenance processes across various sectors. On Key allows for the end-to-end management of operations, ensuring resources – whether in-house or contractors – are deployed efficiently. This system removes the risk of delays or poor-quality work by ensuring that the right contractor is always selected for each job, based on proximity and expertise. This reduces costs and maximises efficiency across the board.

How does Pragma’s approach support local contractors and small businesses?

One of the standout features of our approach is how it supports local businesses. Through a rigorous accreditation process, we ensure that only contractors with the right skills and qualifications are selected for jobs. What’s unique is that we outsource maintenance work to smaller businesses, creating opportunities for regional SMEs rather than relying on large firms. This not only boosts the local economy but also ensures that the work is done efficiently and in line with legislative standards. It’s a win-win for both the contractors and the government.

What impact has Pragma’s approach had in real-world applications?

We’ve seen some fantastic results from our work with municipalities and public-private partnerships. For example, at Albert Luthuli Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, one of the country’s top public hospitals, we’ve been able to improve facilities management. In the public sector, we’ve helped one large metro report a 2 500% increase in operational output, with accurate asset data driving better decision-making. In another case, managing the tyres of a refuse fleet resulted in a saving of R10 million per year. These kinds of outcomes highlight the potential for applying our solutions on a much broader scale.

What is your vision for the future of South Africa’s infrastructure, and how can others get involved?

If we can replicate the success we’ve seen in the energy sector with Eskom across other sectors like water management, healthcare, and municipal building management, the impact on South Africa’s infrastructure will be profound. The key to this transformation lies in collaboration. We’re calling on government officials, industry stakeholders, and potential partners to join us in revitalising the country’s infrastructure. Together, we can create a path to sustainable growth and restore confidence in South Africa’s ability to manage and maintain its assets.