27-year-old South African cable giant changes its name

Shareholders have approved changing South Ocean Holding’s name to ‘Cables 4 Africa Holdings’, ushering in a new era for the cable giant.

Established in 1989, South Ocean Holdings manufactures low-voltage electrical cables and serves as a wholesaler and distributor to the local cable industry.

The company employs 400 people across its operations and generates R2 billion in annual turnover. It is listed on the JSE with a market capitalisation of R207.87 million.

On Monday, 5 October, South Ocean held a general meeting, where the resolution to change its name was passed by shareholders.

Of the shareholders present, 99.25% voted in favour of the name change to Cables 4 Africa.

The proposed name change was first announced on 1 September, with the company explaining that it forms part of a broader strategic repositioning.

It said ‘Cables 4 Africa’ aligns more closely with its core capabilities, market focus, and long-term growth ambitions.

“The Cables 4 Africa identity provides a clearer, more direct expression of the business’s principal offering, its African foundation, and its commitment to serving customers across the continent,” the company said. 

“The new identity is designed to support a more unified market presence across the relevant businesses, strengthen customer recognition, and create a consistent platform for future commercial growth.” 

“It reflects an organisation that is customer-centric, Africa-inspired, and aligned around a single identity.”

Despite the name change, the company said it wants to retain the operating experience, technical capability, and industry relationships developed through the South Ocean business.

It said the name change is “more than a visual rebrand” and is intended to improve strategic clarity and strengthen alignment between the group’s corporate and operating identities.

The JSE approved the name change on 1 September, subject to shareholder approval.

With the green light from shareholders now obtained, South Ocean can proceed with its name change, with the finalisation date still to be communicated.