Online event
Unlocking E-Commerce Trade: UK-South Africa Pilot Launch
Wednesday 29 October at 12:00PM
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This webinar marks the official launch of a strategic pilot initiative between the UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and Takealot.com.
What you’ll learn
- A clear understanding of the pilot structure and how UK brands are being integrated into Takealot’s marketplace.
- Insights into priority product categories based on consumer demand and trade policy alignment.
- Knowledge of how to engage with the importer opt-in network and participate in planned second phase of matchmaking and onboarding activities.
Description
Attendees will gain valuable insights into how UK brands can successfully enter the South African market through e-commerce.
The session will unpack the operational model being piloted, highlight opportunities for collaboration across supply chains, logistics, and digital trade, and offer a platform for potential business matchmaking and partnership development.
Speakers
Chim Chalemera
Regional Director for Southern Africa & Country Director for South Africa, DBT
Regional Director for Southern Africa & Country Director for South Africa and previously held the position of DBT Country Director for Nigeria. Chim is a Chartered Quantity Surveyor with extensive experience across sectors including energy, infrastructure, and trade. She leads UK trade and investment efforts in Southern Africa, focusing on inclusive trade policy and private sector development.
Alexander Slabbert
Marketplace Program Manager, Takealot
With over nine years at Takealot, he has held key roles in seller acquisition, onboarding, and account management, playing a pivotal role in expanding the platform’s marketplace ecosystem. Alexander holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Management Practice from the University of Cape Town’s Graduate School of Business and has a background in digital marketing and automotive sales.
Josephine Hetherington
Head of Economic Development, British High Commission - South Africa
Josephine has worked in development and planning roles, including at Department for International Development and Tesco. She has experience in project management, operations, and supplier negotiation.
Nozuko Sikiti
International Market Adviser – Southern Africa, DBT
Nozuko is a Development Economist and International Trade professional with a track record in the South African financial services and insurance industry.