Closure of any business spells disaster for Bay – The Herald
Monday 9 May 2025
Pray the News
With unemployment in the Eastern Cape nearing 40%, the closure of any business is more than just an economic setback - it is a community crisis. On Thursday, Goodyear SA announced plans to shut down its plant in Kariega, with 907 jobs at risk. VW Group Group MD Martina Biene said every business closure spells disaster for the manufacturing city. She spoke at the Women's Empowerment hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber at the Boardwalk last Friday. In a report on liquidations in SA, Stats SA revealed that the country had seen 109 business liquidations in April and 482 since the beginning of the year. Asked what conversations were being held at the national level to ensure the manufacturing business in SA remained sustainable. Biene said a review of the SA Automotive Masterplan 205 had to happen sooner rather than later. Chamber Chief Executive Denise van Huysteen said while investors needed to come to SA, the government needed to retain those already here.
More information:
The closure of Goodyear South Africa’s Kariega plant, announced on June 5, 2025, threatens 907 jobs and deepens the economic crisis in the Eastern Cape, where unemployment already hovers around 39.3% (with an expanded rate of 49%). This follows a pattern of industrial decline in the region, with recent closures like ContiTech (125 jobs lost) and Bridgestone (four years ago), alongside cutbacks at Mercedes-Benz (700 jobs) and potential losses at Aspen (134 jobs). The Goodyear shutdown, set for December 2025, is part of a broader Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) restructuring to optimize operations, driven by challenges like high costs, poor infrastructure, crime, and competition from cheap imports.
People to Pray for:
Martina Biene - VW Group Group MD
Denise van Huysteen – NMB Chamber Chief Executive
Prayer Pointers
► For the Workers Facing Job Loss
Request: Heavenly Father, we lift up the 907 workers at Goodyear SA in Kariega, whose livelihoods are at risk due to the plant closure. Grant them strength, hope, and provision in this time of uncertainty. Open new doors of opportunity and provide for their families’ needs, as You are the God who sees and sustains.
Scripture: “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19, ESV)
► For Wisdom in National and Industry Leadership
Request: Lord, we pray for Martina Biene, Denise van Huyssteen, government officials, and all involved in shaping South Africa’s economic future. Grant them wisdom and discernment to review the SA Automotive Masterplan and implement policies that preserve jobs and foster sustainable growth. May their decisions reflect Your justice and care for the vulnerable.
Scripture: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (James 1:5, ESV)
► For the Community of Kariega and the Eastern Cape
Request: Father, we bring before You the community of Kariega and the Eastern Cape, where unemployment nears 40%. This closure threatens to deepen the crisis. Comfort those who are anxious, restore hope to the discouraged, and inspire unity to rebuild and support one another. Let Your peace reign in their hearts.
Scripture: “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18, ESV)
A Prayer
"Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts for the 907 workers at Goodyear SA in Kariega, facing job loss, and the Eastern Cape community grappling with nearly 40% unemployment. Provide for their needs, restore hope, and open new opportunities, as You promise in Philippians 4:19, “My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Grant wisdom to leaders like Martina Biene and Denise van Huyssteen, and to policymakers reviewing the SA Automotive Masterplan, that they may foster sustainable growth and retain businesses, guided by James 1:5, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously.” Comfort the brokenhearted in Kariega, as You are near to them (Psalm 34:18), and strengthen South Africa’s economy amidst 482 business liquidations this year, establishing their work as they commit it to You (Proverbs 16:3). Unite unions, the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, and advocates in compassion and justice, that they may dwell in unity (Psalm 133:1). May Your peace and provision transform this crisis. In Jesus’ name, Amen."Listen to the prayer here
Compiled by GAP Ministries
Free to Share
Visit our "Pray the News" index page here