EKASINOMICS - How WASAA Is Reshaping South Africa’s Petrochemicals Sector

Loading player...
GUEST: Nokwanele Qonde – Founder & Managing Director, WASAA Group

From LPG and logistics to chemicals, commodities and large-scale infrastructure, WASAA is quietly building one of South Africa’s most compelling black industrial success stories. In this conversation we unpack how a black-women owned petrochemicals company is driving growth through diversification in one of the country’s most capital-intensive and traditionally closed industries.

With over two decades of experience in oil and gas, Qonde shares WASAA’s journey from its founding in 2008 to securing a landmark 25-year agreement to develop and operate a new R1.4-billion LPG terminal at the Port of Durban. We explore what this deal means for South Africa’s energy security, port diversification and regional trade, why infrastructure ownership matters for transformation.
17 Dec 2025 2PM English South Africa Business News · Investing

Other recent episodes

Why Many SMEs Still Aren't Investment Ready

Access to funding remains a major challenge for South African entrepreneurs, but is capital really the biggest obstacle? Old Mutual's Ndumiso Zulu explores why investment readiness, governance and compliance have become critical differentiators for SMEs seeking growth capital and long-term sustainability.
15 Oct 11AM 20 min

The New Economics of African Entertainment

Africa's entertainment and media sectors are evolving rapidly, but technology alone won't determine the winners. Charles Stuart of PwC unpacks the latest Africa Entertainment & Media Outlook, examining growth opportunities across South Africa, Kenya and Nigeria, the rise of gaming, shifting advertising trends and the enduring value of cultural connection
15 Oct 11AM 13 min

Inside Your Pocket: Spring-Clean Your Finances Before the Festive Spending Rush

With millions of South Africans battling impaired credit records and year-end spending pressures approaching, Trevor Misthry from National Debt Counsellors shares practical steps to regain control. From debt reconciliation and budgeting to avoiding festive season traps, this conversation focuses on building financial resilience before December arrives.
15 Oct 11AM 14 min

Equites Bets Big on SA Logistics After UK Exit

Equites Property Fund has reported stronger earnings, near-zero vacancies and a strengthened balance sheet as it completes its strategic UK exit. CEO Andrea Taverna-Turisan unpacks why the group is doubling down on South African logistics, where rental growth is emerging, and why demand for prime logistics assets continues to outpace…
15 Oct 11AM 19 min

Ekasinomics: How Col'Cacchio Reinvented Itself

When the pandemic disrupted restaurant trading, Col'Cacchio faced a critical question: how could a restaurant brand continue reaching customers when dining rooms stood empty? Group CEO Etienne Pieterse shares how a supermarket trial during COVID evolved into a growing retail business, the challenges of preserving quality at scale, and the…
14 Oct 12PM 13 min