Aberdare Cables kicks off 80th Anniversary Celebrations in Qheberha

Aberdare Cables kicked off its 80th Anniversary celebrations in the charming coastal city of Port Elizabeth, nestled in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province, on 25th June 2026. The milestone event commenced with an expertly organised factory tour at the company’s Stamford Road operations. Guests were warmly welcomed and guided through the state-of-the-art production floor, where they observed the intricate process of cable manufacturing from raw materials to the finished product. The immersive tour provided customers with valuable insights and a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship and advanced technology that go into making their favourite cables.

The second leg of the celebrations unfolded as an elegant evening at the immaculate Sun International Boardwalk Hotel, renowned for its sophisticated atmosphere and stunning oceanfront views. The grand ballroom was adorned with tasteful décor, ambient lighting, and floral arrangements, setting the stage for a memorable occasion. The event brought together a distinguished gathering of loyal customers and esteemed government officials, reflecting Aberdare Cables’ significant contribution to the regional economy and infrastructure development. Lively conversations, heartfelt speeches, and a spirit of camaraderie filled the air, underscoring the enduring partnerships and shared achievements celebrated throughout the night.

The evening’s program was orchestrated by the dynamic Mr Katlego Maboe, whose magnetic stage presence and infectious energy captivated the audience from the moment he took the microphone. With remarkable linguistic flair, he effortlessly transitioned between multiple languages, infusing each segment with wit and warmth while ensuring everyone felt included. His engaging storytelling and natural rapport with the crowd drew laughter and applause, making him a highlight of the night and leaving a lasting impression on every guest.

Mr Mishack Matla, the MSD Executive Director at Aberdare Cables, set an inspiring tone for the evening with a heartfelt and gracious opening address. His words painted a vivid picture of Aberdare’s remarkable 80-year journey, recalling pivotal milestones, transformative innovations, and the company’s deep roots in Port Elizabeth. The audience listened intently as he celebrated not only the company’s achievements but also the enduring partnerships that helped shape its legacy. Matla’s remarks were punctuated by sincere acknowledgements to prominent figures from the Eastern Cape and the city, whose presence underscored the event’s significance.

Following the opening, Mr Jian Ken Wang, CEO of Aberdare Cables, delivered a memorable keynote address. With conviction and enthusiasm, he underscored the power of collaboration, illustrating how collective effort and shared vision have propelled Aberdare’s growth. Wang expressed heartfelt gratitude to customers and partners for their unwavering support, inviting them to celebrate not just past successes but also the promising future ahead.

Representing the government, the Honourable Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Municipality, Councillor Babalwa Lobishe, delivered a heartfelt welcome to Aberdare Cables. With poise and warmth, she spoke passionately about the company’s transformative impact on the city. The Mayor highlighted Aberdare’s vital role in tackling unemployment by creating job opportunities and fostering skills development among local residents. Her remarks expressed deep gratitude for the company’s ongoing commitment to uplifting the community and empowering its people, further reinforcing the strong partnership between Aberdare Cables and the municipality.

The ambience soared as Maremo the Violin and Jade the Harper took to the stage, enchanting the audience with a spellbinding musical performance. Their harmonious blend of violin and harp filled the grand ballroom with rich, emotive melodies that captivated every guest. Each note seemed to dance in the air, evoking both excitement and nostalgia, and drawing thunderous applause from the crowd. Their artistry not only entertained but elevated the evening, leaving a lasting impression and weaving an unforgettable soundtrack into the tapestry of Aberdare’s milestone celebration.

As the festivities drew to a close, Factory Operations and Technical Executive Mr Wayne Munilall delivered a gracious vote of thanks. He eloquently recognised the organising team’s dedication, whose meticulous planning and hard work made the event possible. Munilall extended heartfelt appreciation to every guest who accepted the invitation, emphasising the shared pride and sense of accomplishment in celebrating Aberdare’s 80-year legacy together. His closing words resonated with gratitude, unity, and the hope of many more milestones to come.