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Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront continues to power ahead with full occupancy of its shopping centres, as well as rising sales and substantial growth, despite reports of online shopping upending traditional bricks and mortar. Retail sales were up more than 70% at the end of May 2024 compared to 2019 pre-Covid levels. New brands are visible, …
In days gone by we would market our businesses in a number of ways: Yellow Pages Listings were a must Cold Calling was acceptable Adverts in the Daily Newspapers – Herald, Evening Post, Weekend Post, Die Burger, PE Express etc. Paid for Advertorials or to e quoted in Press Releases Branding on Radio – Radio …
I_Menstruate Movement launches “period poverty” exhibition in Franschhoek
Johannesburg, South Africa – Are you experiencing uninvited guests in your home or business premises? Pest Control WR, a leading pest control company in Johannesburg, is raising awareness about the serious health risks associated with rat infestations. Homeowners, restaurant managers, and housekeeping managers in Johannesburg are urged to understand these risks and take prompt action. …
Parliament begins setting up internal structures
With the election of the Presiding Officers and the inauguration of the new President done and dusted, the seventh Parliament will now shift focus to establishing internal structures necessary for Parliament to function.
Among the activities that will unfold are the Rules Committees of the National Assembly (NA) and National Council of Provinces (NCOP) meetings.
“These committees will establish the structures necessary for the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces to function. They also decide on the constitution of the two Houses’ respective committees, the formula for whips, speaking time during debates, and the number of Members that will serve on a committee.
“Whips are important figures in the parliamentary system as they are responsible for discipline within the political parties and ensuring that Members attend and participate in parliamentary sessions. The formula for whips is a strategic determination that influences the dynamics of parliamentary proceedings. On the other hand, setting of speaking times is crucial for maintaining order and decorum in the Houses and ensuring that discussions are productive and focused,” Parliament said.
Constituting the oversight committees is guided by the Cabinet portfolios designated by the President as the committees exercise oversight over each government department.
Parliament said committees are essential in scrutinising the work of government, providing a platform for debate, and ensuring accountability.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa in consultation with the Speaker of the National Assembly (NA) Thoko Didiza and the Chairperson of the NCOP Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane will set the date for the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA).
“The OPA is an important ceremony in the form of a joint sitting of the two Houses that marks the official opening of the seventh Parliament. Unlike the State of the Nation Address that takes place annually in February, the OPA occurs once every five years after elections to announce the new administration’s plans, and it marks the beginning of the new parliamentary term,” Parliament said.
The joint sitting for the Opening of Parliament Address will be at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) in light of the ongoing construction.
The CTICC has been chosen for its capacity, convenience and proximity to the Parliament precinct.
Programme of the new Parliament
Once all the structures of the two Houses are established, the Joint Programming Committee will convene to deliberate on the parliamentary programme.
“The Joint Programming Committee plays a vital role in laying the groundwork for a productive legislative session as it is responsible for drawing up a programme for the first term of the new Parliament. The programme outlines the schedule and priorities for parliamentary activities, ensuring a structured and efficient approach to legislative and oversight responsibilities,” Parliament said.
Orientation programme for MPs
The newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) will also undergo a structured orientation programme from 2 July to 5 July to induct them into their new roles.
The programme will cover a wide range of topics, including an introduction to the core business of Parliament, the roles and responsibilities of Members and Office Bearers, an overview of MPs’ ethics and disclosures, the Rules guiding the operations of each House, and those that guide Joint Sittings.
“Following the success of the first sittings of the two Houses, the seventh parliamentary administration is ready to take the reins and ensure that Parliament fulfils its constitutional mandate of oversight over the executive and providing a platform for the voice of South Africans in government policy and implementation,” Parliament said.
Meetings and activities scheduled for this week are as follows:
- SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 06/24/2024 - 10:02
Dr Nthabiseng Moleko is an economist at Stellenbosch Business School: Since 1994 the South African government has employed market friendly policies in an investment led growth strategy. Yet South Africa has averaged 1.2% GDP per capita growth over the last three decades, faring particularly poorly in the last decade by contracting -0,25% in per capita …
NBA Africa (www.NBA.com) and New Era Education, a Cairo-based educational services and school management company that seeks to bring high-quality educational institutions to Egypt to provide Egyptian students with the best possible education opportunities, today announced a multiyear collaboration for New Era Education to launch and operate the first NBA Basketball School in Africa.
Located at Uppingham School Cairo, an international school in New Giza, Egypt, NBA Basketball School will launch in January 2025 for Uppingham School youth ages 5-18. The year-round, tuition-based basketball development program will cover on-court training, skill development and basketball education for all skill levels.
“The launch of Africa's first NBA Basketball School is a significant milestone in our continued efforts to grow the game in Egypt and across the continent,” said Head of NBA Egypt Mohamed Abdel-motaleb Soliman. “This landmark initiative will provide Uppingham School Cairo students with the opportunity to learn the game the right way and progress their development under the guidance of NBA-selected coaches.”
“The collaboration with NBA Africa on the NBA Basketball School program underscores our dedication to providing youth with opportunities for growth and development, both on-and-off the court,” said New Era Education Board Chairman Dr. Tamer Tammam. “Through this initiative, our students and their families will access a world-class training program that fosters leadership skills and promotes overall personal growth.”
NBA Basketball School will build on the league's previous initiatives in Cairo, including the last three Basketball Africa League Nile Conference group phases, Jr. NBA clinics for local youth, the 18th edition of Basketball Without Borders Africa, the launch of the NBA Egypt office in January 2023, and more.
The NBA Basketball School curriculum, which is designed to develop players and provide parents, coaches and organizations with a better understanding of the process of improvement, was created by the NBA's International Basketball Operations department in consultation with current and former NBA coaches, players and player development specialists. Since 2017, NBA Basketball Schools have been launched in Australia, Brazil, China, the Dominican Republic, Greece, India, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Lithuania, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Uruguay.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Basketball Association (NBA).
Contact:
Chumani Bambani
NBA Africa Communications
cbambani@nba.com
+27 65 548 1031
About NBA Africa:
NBA Africa is an affiliate of the National Basketball Association (NBA), a global sports and media organization with the mission to inspire and connect people everywhere through the power of basketball. NBA Africa conducts the league's business in Africa, including the Basketball Africa League (BAL), and has opened subsidiary offices in Cairo, Egypt; Dakar, Senegal; Johannesburg, South Africa; Lagos, Nigeria; and Nairobi, Kenya. The league's efforts on the continent have focused on increasing access to basketball and the NBA through youth and elite development, social responsibility, media distribution, corporate partnerships, NBA Africa Games, NBA Stores, the BAL, and more.
NBA games and programming are available in all 54 African countries, and the NBA has hosted three sold-out exhibition games on the continent since 2015. The BAL, a partnership between the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and NBA Africa, is a professional league featuring 12 club teams from across Africa concluded its fourth season in June 2024. Fans can follow @ NBA_Africa and @ theBAL on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.
The therapeutic oasis: exploring the profound impact of spa treatments on mental health By Nteboheng Kennedy, Manager of @Sandton Spa We have all joked about needing a spa day, but jokes aside there really are some major health benefits to taking a spa day. In this article the manager of @Sandton Spa, Nteboheng Kennedy, delves …
Mandatory disclosure of known defects has been a legal requirement for property sales for several years now. More recently, however (as of February 2022, to be exact) this requirement was extended to residential property rentals as well. Rental agents cannot market a rental property without a Mandatory Disclosure Document on file. However, Jacqui Savage, National …
Government activities for the week 24 – 28 June 2024
On Tuesday, 25 June, the Federation of Unions of South Africa (Fedusa) will host a Training & Information Webinar on the 2-Pot System on Microsoft Teams.
On Tuesday, 25 June, Government will host Operation Vulindlela Conference.
On Wednesday, 26 June, International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking will be celebrated annually to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse.
On Thursday, 27 June, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy will host the Junior Miners Exploration Fund Webinar.
Matona
Mon, 06/24/2024 - 11:11
Perfect weather is predicted for the SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees, which runs from Friday, June 28 to Sunday, June 30. Visitors to the Eastern Cape’s favourite family festival will be enthralled by the selection of over 300 selected stalls, will be shouting “yee haw!” during high-energy horse shows, and inspired by the conservation theme in the …
The National Musuems of Kenya (NMK) and CityBlue Hotels (CityBlue) (www.CityBlueHotels.com) are proud to announce a new partnership to co-promote tourism and culture in Kenya.
This alliance marks an exciting opportunity for sponsorship, co-branding, co-marketing and other forms of collaboration.
NMK was established by an Act of Parliament, the Museums and Heritage Act 2006, as a multi-disciplinary institution whose role is to collect, preserve, study, document and present Kenya's past and present cultural and natural heritage. This is for the purposes of enhancing knowledge, appreciation, respect and sustainable utilization of these resources for the benefit of Kenya and the world, for now and posterity.
CityBlue Hotels, Africa's fastest-growing local hotel chain, operates in Kenya (Mombasa, Nairobi and Lamu with new properties opening soon), Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Ghana. CityBlue also has a collaboration arrangement with more than twenty hotels in South Africa and Mozambique.
Professor Mary Gikungu, Director General of the NMK, stated that, “This arrangement is a step for NMK to engage with the private sector with a group that is established, growing, dynamic and cares, like we do, for the welfare of mankind and the conservation of the biological diversity of the East African region and that of the entire planet. The story of NMK and our cultural heritage will be enhanced by this collaboration”.
Jameel Verjee, Founder & CEO of CityBlue Hotels, explained at the Africa Hotel Investment Forum 2024 that “NMK manages many Regional Museums, Sites and Monuments of national and international importance alongside priceless collections of Kenya's living cultural and natural heritage. As an institution that must respond to the growing needs of the society, NMK is striving to contribute in a unique way to the task of national development and we cannot wait to be a partner of NMK on this journey”.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CityBlue Hotels.
Not only is the cost of charging an electric vehicle significantly lower than filling up a petrol car, with savings ranging from 80-90%. This is due to the higher energy efficiency of electric motors compared to internal combustion engines. Owners of Electric Vehicles also ‘escape’ the taxes levied on fuel in South Africa – a …
Every effort must be made to ensure the GNU succeeds
President Cyril Ramaphosa says every effort must be made to ensure that the Government of National Unity (GNU) remains true to its founding spirit of collaboration in good faith to drive a programme that improves the lives of all South Africa’s people.
“South Africans made clear with their votes in last month’s elections that they want their elected representatives to put aside narrow interests and work together to build the country,” President Ramaphosa said.
In his weekly newsletter, President Ramaphosa said the formation of the second Government of National Unity (GNU) was a momentous development in South Africa’s democracy.
“The success of the GNU will be measured by the extent to which we are prepared to focus not on who will govern, but on how we will govern, together,” President Ramahosa said.
President Ramaphosa said the first GNU was established in 1994 to promote nation building and inclusivity from a racially divided past during a period of political transition.
“Giving effect to the principles of that Constitution and the Bill of Rights must be the overriding focus of this GNU. This will be done by pursing a common programme to eradicate poverty and build a more equal society, to create jobs, and to make government truly work for the people.
“The GNU Statement of Intent provides a solid base for genuine cooperation between parties across the political spectrum who have signed up of their own accord.
“The Statement of Intent commits the signatories to a set of foundational principles that include respect for constitutionalism, accountability, transparency and community participation in government, evidence-based policy and decision-making, professionalisation of the public service integrity and good governance,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa said the parties to the GNU have agreed on priorities for the incoming administration and that at the top of the list of priorities is the achievement of rapid, inclusive and sustainable economic growth to create jobs.
“It will be critical that the GNU stays the course on the structural reform that is underway to improve the business operating environment and establish South Africa as an investment destination of choice.
“These reforms are necessary to resolve longstanding challenges in key industries and create more jobs and opportunities. We will need to build on the progress that has already been made, while accelerating the pace of reform,” the President said.
President Rmaphosa said the fact that there is broad consensus among the parties on the priorities of the incoming administration gives an encouragement that the GNU will indeed take the country forward.
“Emanating from the priorities outlined in the Statement of Intent, the parties will further refine the GNU’s programme, including through the proposed National Dialogue process.
“We remain committed to consensus-building and to the representation of a broad range of interests and viewpoints within government. At the same time, we are all keenly aware that South Africans expect action, implementation and results,” he said.
The President said the country’s hopes are pinned on the success of the GNU.
“Our stated commitment to work together constructively and for South Africa’s benefit has generated a great deal of goodwill that we should not squander. South Africans are watching.
“We should not waste our energies on those who stand in the way of our country’s progress or lose momentum over differences that can be resolved,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 06/24/2024 - 10:17
Starbucks Champions Young Innovators: Empowering Change Makers to Compete Globally. Be part of this journey. Cape Town, South Africa – On Saturday, June 1st the V&A Waterfront was buzzing with excitement as Starbucks South Africa hosted Booster Kids, a local robotics club, for a day filled with innovation, creativity, and delicious Frappuccino’s! Our store was …
TSHWANE: Cricket South Africa (CSA) will host a Young Guns Fast Bowlers Camp from 24 – 27 June at the...
Those who have focused on people management will likely be thinking about how they can bring even better structures and levels of productivity to the fore this year, says Charles Edelstein of Executive Placements. A recent special report, the “Executive MBA Insights”, shares key trends to help senior leaders overcome their management challenges in an …
Layla Arrison is tackling stereotypes and scoring big in the hard-hitting world of rugby. Recently, she made waves as the first English female commentator for SuperSport, debuting at the electrifying Singapore Sevens Rugby Tournament on World Rugby Day. Layla’s journey from a rugby-loving girl to a groundbreaking commentator is a thrilling story of passion, grit, …
Agency welcomes efforts to fight cross-border crimes
The Cross-Border Road Transport Agency (C-BRTA) has welcomed the recent 53-year conviction of cross-border vehicle hijacker and smuggler, Sipho Mhlanga.
Mhlanga was sentenced to 53 years by the Mtubatuba Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 19 June.
The CEO of the C-BRTA, Lwazi Mboyi, said the agency notes the progress registered by law enforcement authorities in the country in the fight against cross-border crimes.
“This is a step in the right direction because cross-border crimes and related syndicates frustrate South Africa’s efforts to improve and build a healthy trade between the country and neighbouring countries. It is for this reason that we commend the work that has been done thus far, and we would like to wish the South African Police well in their efforts to eliminate cross-border crimes,” Mboyi said in a statement on Sunday.
Mhlanga’s arrest and subsequent conviction followed “sterling work” by the South African Police Service (SAPS), who were deployed to the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal to clamp down on cross-border criminality.
“The C-BRTA, as the facilitator of the commercial transportation of passengers, goods and services across borders, welcomes and commends the SAPS for the work they have done in fighting and combating cross-border crimes in KwaZulu-Natal and in the country in general,” the agency said.
The C-BRTA is a statutory body operating in a commercial environment, with government represented by the Minister of Transport being the shareholder.
The agency facilitates the unimpeded flow of freight and passenger cross-border movements and plays a critical role in the implementation of cross-border road transport agreements and issuing of cross-border operator permits. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Mon, 06/24/2024 - 09:23
Are you ready to gain more skills and take your professional communication to the next level? Look no further than the short courses offered by the Communication Lab (Comms Lab) at the Stellenbosch University (SU) Language Centre. In today’s digital marketplace, effective communication is the name of the game. That’s why the Comms Lab’s short …
Then have a look at these one liner jokes that you could try out on your Sparky of choice. Looking at the list Straton Electrical has highlighted this one; “What do you call a group of electricians? A power grid.” as being particularly clever. So here goes: The electrician was not a fan of marriage. …
Zena Brand Builders, an innovative outdoor media company based in the Eastern Cape, is making waves under the visionary leadership of CEO of Zena Brand Builders Yonwaba Pangeni. As a young South African woman breaking new ground in an industry traditionally dominated by established media giants, Yonwaba’s tenacious approach and dynamic leadership are transforming the …
Transnet institutes disciplinary action against TNPA Chief Executive
State ports and freight logistics company Transnet has instituted disciplinary action against Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) Chief Executive Pepi Silinga and some managers following investigations at the company.
Transnet had appointed Bowmans attorneys to investigate what it described as allegations of impropriety at TNPA.
“Transnet also appointed Bowmans to assist with implementing the recommendations of a forensic report by Fundudzi Investigators which considered the award of a tender for the multi-purpose terminal at the Port of Ngqura,” Transnet said in a statement.
The state-owned company said investigations have now been completed.
“In a meeting held on 21 June 2024 and based on legal advice and the recommendations from the investigations, Transnet’s Board of Directors and the TNPA Board agreed to issue disciplinary charges against TNPA Chief Executive Mr Pepi Silinga.
“On the same day, Transnet also instituted disciplinary charges against managers implicated in the Fundudzi report and other managers at TNPA implicated in acts of impropriety. External independent chairpersons have been appointed to chair all disciplinary proceedings.
“Transnet will ensure this matter is dealt with swiftly and with the necessary sensitivity. Any further updates will be communicated in due course,” a statement said. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Sun, 06/23/2024 - 15:52
Treasury issues MTEF technical guidelines
National Treasury (NT) has issued the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) Technical Guidelines for 2025.
The guidelines are issued to assist departments at both national government and other state institutions to prepare medium term estimates for 2025 budget.
National Treasury said the 2024 Budget sought to balance stabilising “public finances and reduce fiscal and economic risks while promoting economic growth and supporting vulnerable members of society”.
“The 2025 Budget will see a debt-stabilising primary surplus achieved in 2025/26, a reduction in the fiscal deficit to pre-COVID-19 levels, and a stabilisation of debt-service costs as a percentage of revenue. A lower debt burden allows the government to redirect resources to important social expenditure and will lower borrowing costs for households and businesses.
“Resources will be available only within the parameters required to meet the objectives of the medium-term fiscal strategy as outlined in the 2024 Budget Review. In this regard, should the economic outlook remain the same, no additions will be made to the overall envelope. In instances where spending may be accommodated by unforeseen or higher-than-expected revenues, permanent increases to spending will be avoided,” Treasury said in a statement.
It added that spending institutions and government department pressures must be “funded from current baselines and programmes that have not delivered their expected outcomes, or through reprioritisation, either within the department’s or public entity’s budget, or from other departments’ or public entities’ budgets”.
The department added that government was seized with enhancing “fiscal credibility and ensure continued transparency and accountability in the management of public finances”.
“The National Treasury has recognised the need for a comprehensive review of the budget process with the objective to identify and implement reforms that will enhance the efficiency, transparency, and effectiveness of the budget process.
“These guidelines are issued while the review is at its initial stages, and it is anticipated that implementation will begin in the 2026 MTEF,” Treasury said.
The department emphasised that while the new administration “bring its own perspectives and policies”, in the meanwhile, “it is crucial to maintain the current fiscal strategy, which aims to stabilise public finances, and ensure sustainable and inclusive economic growth”.
“The current fiscal strategy includes a reconfiguration of the Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI) to further expand the pipeline of projects and to test alternative financing and funding models separate from the normal budget process.
“The intention is to use government’s resources more efficiently to leverage financing from the private sector, as well as development and international finance institutions. In this way, limited public resources can catalyse more funding, capacity and capability to fast-track infrastructure provision and improve its effectiveness,” Treasury said. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Sun, 06/23/2024 - 15:54