By Eamonn Ryan
Executive director David Botha and president Tony Moodley outline their strategy to build on the successes of 2024, focusing on expanding outreach, engaging with suppliers and fostering greater awareness in regions where SARACCA’s footprint is smaller.
SARACCA executive director David Botha. All images by ©RACA Journal
The South African Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractors Association (SARACCA) is committed to further strengthening its industry presence and compliance efforts in 2025.
Botha emphasises the importance of working closely with the networks of suppliers such as Metraclark and branching out to other suppliers, especially in areas where the association’s presence is limited. The goal is to ensure that SARACCA’s role in the industry is well known and that contractors are aware of the necessity to adhere to the required gas regulations, including SAQCC Gas certification. In line with this, SARACCA’s efforts have been geared towards attracting compliant contractors and ensuring that registration with SAQCC Gas standards is maintained.
A major part of the association’s efforts includes offering subsidised training, says Botha. “Last year, SARACCA invested over R1-million into training, with the funds divided between apprentice training and other technical courses.The name SARACCA has been built over 61 years, and it’s essential that we uphold that legacy,” he says.
To attract more members, SARACCA is planning events in the near future in three regions: Bloemfontein, Port Elizabeth and Nelspruit, where members will have the opportunity to network and engage with the association’s leadership. Botha highlights the importance of having contractors who are not only members but who are compliant with industry regulations, adding that being part of SARACCA grants credibility, which is crucial for securing tenders in the competitive contracting market.
SARACCA president Tony Moodley.
Moodley also emphasises that SARACCA is not just about benefits for individual contractors: “Being a SARACCA member isn’t just about what you can get out of it. It’s about contributing to the industry and strengthening the collective voice of contractors.”
He highlights the value of collaboration, encouraging members to attend meetings and share their experiences. By doing so, contractors can learn from each other and address common challenges. “We want to see our members coming together, discussing their challenges and offering each other solutions,” says Moodley.
The association has made strides in expanding its training offerings. SARACCA has adjusted its rebate structure, offering up to 75% rebates on certain training courses which could help members recover their entire contributions through the training they receive. Moodley also points out that SARACCA only supports accredited training academies, ensuring that training meets industry standards.
Both agreed that the focus on vetting both contractors and training academies is key to maintaining high-quality standards across the industry. SARACCA remains committed to its dual role as both an industry representative for contractors and as a guardian of safe refrigerant handling practices.
As SARACCA moves forward with its strategic initiatives, the association is determined to keep raising industry standards while offering contractors the tools they need to succeed and remain compliant.
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