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This year has seen the semigration trend continue as property owners move out of the cities into coastal towns such as those found along the KZN South Coast. Reece Daniel, Developer of one local eco-focused estate, Serenity Hills, said they had noted 4 particular qualities that the majority of investors were looking for when relocating. …
Police "unapologetic" in fighting crime and criminality in the country
Police Minister, General Bheki Cele, says the South African Police Service (SAPS) remains unapologetic in its decisive stance on fighting crime and criminality in the country.
Addressing a media briefing on the successes of Operation Shanela in Pretoria this morning, Cele said Community Policing Forums, community patrollers as well as private security have been very active in their support and are playing a crucial role in the overall success of the operation.
Operation Shanela was launched in May last year in an effort to deal with crime in high-density areas.
To date 600 000 criminals, including wanted criminals, have been arrested. Over 71 000 operations have been conducted throughout the country.
Police have confiscated a number of illegal firearms, drugs, stolen vehicles and visited unlicensed establishments, among other things. Also as part of these operations, thousands of motorists have been nabbed for driving under the influence, theft out of motor vehicles, human trafficking and other crimes.
“Operation Shanela has and continues to be rolled out across the country, led by the Provincial Commissioners of each province,” Cele said.
Operations are intensified from Thursday up until the early hours of Monday. This is guided by crime pattern analysis which informed the police that most crimes are reported during these times.
“Each week we come together on a Monday morning to scan the country, discuss in depth the weekly crime picture and operational interventions on policable crimes,” he said.
He said, however, that while the SAPS remains at the forefront of Operation Shanela, the successes are as a result of collaborative efforts through integrated operations.
The police continue to collaborate and appreciate the role played by the SANDF, the National and Provincial Traffic Police and the Metro Police Departments, Municipal Traffic, the Department of Home Affairs, the South African Revenue Services (SARS) and other government departments.
“The role of active citizen participation in the prevention and combating crime continues to gain momentum,” Cele.
The Minister said the police will remain intentional in their approach to fight crime
Also present at the media briefing were crime analysts who each day provide commentary to South Africans and the world on the police's ability to fulfill its constitutional mandate of preventing, investigating and combating crime.
The Provincial Police Commissioners also attended and said that through Operation Shanela, crime in their provinces has drastically reduced.
Although they all facing different challenges in their provinces, the Commissioners said they are working hard to get rid of criminal elements in their provinces. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 05/06/2024 - 13:20
Amanzimtoti’s local tourism, businesses, and the hard-working Lions Club were given a major boost on Saturday, 27 April with the successful Highland Gathering held at Hutchison Park. Crowds flocked to enjoy the day’s festivities, which included several new features and prize giveaways, with the proceeds going towards community initiatives by The Lions Club of Amanzimtoti. …
Introduction Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) stands as a pivotal component of modern digital marketing, influencing how businesses enhance visibility and engagement online. At its core, SEO is the practice of optimising a website to improve its ranking in search engine results, thereby increasing traffic and potential business opportunities. Despite its widespread recognition as a fundamental …
Court orders "stolen land" to be transferred back to provincial department
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has welcomed a forfeiture order by the High Court of South Africa: Gauteng Division, in Pretoria, to the SIU and Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) linked to the fraudulent transfer of government land to private entities and individuals.
The total value of the recovery is R53 million, the investigative unit said in a statement on Monday.
The order, dated 18 April 2024, orders that Farm 33 Zuurfontein, in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, must be transferred to the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development as the original title deed owner and RIC Development to pay that department R12 million.
“The order follows an SIU investigation which revealed that a syndicate of individuals and private entities defrauded the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform and the respective Deeds Registries in Vryburg, Johannesburg and Pretoria by fraudulently transferring government property to individuals and private entities for their benefit.
“The SIU’s investigation looked into fraud and corruption committed between January 2008 and February 2022.
“As part of the investigation, numerous affidavits were obtained by the SIU from internal Rural Development and Land Reform Department and Deeds Registry staff members, external witnesses and/or transferring attorneys,” said the unit.
The SIU was, in terms of Proclamation R 7 of 2014 as amended by Proclamation R 599 of 2015 and Proclamation R 32 of 2017, authorised by the President to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration relating to the transfer of government land to individuals and private entities and to recover the loss the state has suffered.
“In line with the SIU Act, the SIU referred evidence pointing to criminal conduct to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.
“The referral resulted in a criminal case being registered with the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigations (Hawks),” it said.
The forfeiture order is for the following:
• Farm 33 Zuurfontein which was meant for the development of low-income housing and a school in the community. The land is worth R41 million.
• A payment of R12 million representing the property known as Holding Beverley Agricultural Holdings, which was bought by RIC Development from the government land theft syndicate.
The unit said RIC Development bought land from the “land thieves” and developed it without knowing that it was stolen.
“This forfeiture order is part of the implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy by law enforcement agencies to strengthen its fight against corruption,” said the SIU. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Mon, 05/06/2024 - 12:57
Private contractor is selling water out of trucks
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Apple Music kicks off Africa Month celebrations with the introduction of cover stars on its Afrobeats Hits playlist, starting with Nigerian singer-songwriter, Fireboy DML who just released his new single “Everyday.” Apple Music has also released the Top Artists and Afrobeats Hits for the past year with the likes of Davido, Asake, Bnxn, Omah Lay …
The African Union Commission (AUC) has officially invited the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to take advantage of the hosting rights benefits of the next 2 editions of the prestigious annual All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA (www.AFRIMA.org).
In a letter bearing reference number HHS/CUL/16/170.23 and signed by the AUC's Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development, Her Excellency, Ambassador Minata Samate Cessouma, the AU said the call aligns with its policies for the strategic transformation of Africa through social integration, as outlined in AU Agenda 2063, the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance, and the AU Plan for Action on Cultural and Creative Industry.
The AU describes AFRIMA as a global platform for celebrating and developing Africa's diverse musical talents and cultural heritage, highlighting the significant opportunities hosting the prestigious awards presents for the selected host country.
"Since 2014, the African Union has been partnering and working successfully with AFRIMA to develop, celebrate and promote African music globally for the purpose of integration/inclusivity, economic prosperity and world peace via its seven core pillars: (1) Music Awards, (2) Music Festivals; (3) AFRIMA creative Academy; (4) Talent Discovery and Promotions; (5) Music Business Hub; (6) Advocacy; (7) Advisory and Policy Debates," the letter reads.
"AFRIMA is the biggest and longest running music award and platform in Africa, with a huge global appeal, diaspora audience, and youthful fans. The main event events of AFRIMA are usually broadcast live to over 84 countries around the world after a continental and global road show, with thousands of music artists, actors, celebrities, members of the diplomatic corps, professionals in the creative space, tourists, media and fans from all over the world converging on the host country."
A letter received by the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, on behalf of the Nigerian government, a copy of which was seen by our correspondent, reads, "Nigeria, as a beacon in African music with huge young population, should it accept to host AFRIMA, stands a promising chance in elevating the country's positive global presence, bolstering artistic, tourism and economic growth, fostering cultural exchange and job creation, and reinforcing a positive perception of our continent's rich cultural heritage on a global scale."
The successful last edition of AFRIMA was hosted and partnered by the government of the Republic of Senegal in the city of Dakar. The hosting rights of AFRIMA are usually bestowed on a country that shows capacity and commitment to meet up with the requirement and conditions.
The Acting Director for Social Development, Culture, and Sports Division, African Union Commission, Ms. Angela Martins confirmed the invitation and request to bid for the hosting rights extended to the two countries.
She said that AFRIMA provides a unique opportunity for the host country to showcase its rich cultural heritage, develop her music sector, promote tourism, and stimulate economic growth.
"This call to action comes as part of the AU's commitment to promoting cultural exchange, unity, and economic development across the African continent. We urge the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to seize this opportunity to strengthen intra-African collaboration (in line with AFCTA) within the music industry and enhance their international visibility positively.
"AFRIMA serves as a premier platform for African artists in Africa and diaspora to showcase their talent, gain international exposure, and connect with audiences worldwide," she said.
She added that as the bidding process is itching towards its deadline, the African Union remains committed to providing support and guidance to ensure a successful hosting of AFRIMA.
She also reiterated the AUC's readiness to work closely with the selected host country to maximize the impact of the event on the African music industry, tourism, general economy growth, and socio-cultural landscape.
Signed,
Adejuwon OSUNNUYI
Communications Officer
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).
The duration of a driving test can vary slightly depending on the location and the specific requirements of the test. However, in the UK, a typical car driving test lasts about 40 minutes. This time frame is designed to provide the examiner with enough opportunity to assess a candidate’s driving ability in various situations. Components …
Between April 20-27, the Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition (www.AfricaBusinessHeroes.org), a philanthropic initiative sponsored by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy, hosted 40 participants—consisting of top 10 Heroes, other finalists and partners from across Africa—in Hangzhou, China. Participants engaged in an immersive experience at Alibaba's headquarters in Hangzhou and have returned to their home countries enriched with valuable insights to further enhance their entrepreneurial endeavors on the continent.
During their visit, the ABH Heroes (spanning cohorts from 2019 to 2023) participated in a wide range of activities. These included deep dives that explored various facets of the digital economy from cloud computing, AI-driven logistics to e-commerce villages. They participated in a series of workshops and site visits—all designed to elevate entrepreneurs to a higher level of success. The Heroes also exchanged knowledge and explored opportunities for collaboration with business leaders from Alibaba and with each other. These activities provided the participants with new knowledge and perspectives that they can potentially apply to overcome challenges, seize opportunities and scale their businesses.
Diarra BOUSSO, Founder & Creative Director of Diarrablu and ABH 2020 top 10 Hero, who was among the participants in the trip to China, expresses her gratitude for the experience, stating: “This trip was so inspiring in so many ways. First, meeting all these entrepreneurs who are the top entrepreneurs on the African continent and spending a week together was an incredible experience. And second: being immersed in the world of Alibaba and all the companies Jack Ma and his team built over time and understanding the vision behind it was like a dream come true.”
In another exciting development, ABH is extending its deadline for 2024 entries from May 19 to June 9 to accommodate more entrepreneurs eager to participate in the competition. Candidates selected for the top 50 will gain access to a host of resources, including training, mentorship and networking opportunities, as well as a supportive network of fellow African business leaders. US$1.5 million in grant funding will be distributed among the top 10 finalists; the first prize winner will receive an award of US$300,000.
This year, ABH has also hosted information sessions and community events across the continent to facilitate the application process and nurture a vibrant entrepreneurial community. These events have taken place in South Africa, Kenya, Zambia, Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire, with upcoming sessions scheduled for Egypt, Ethiopia, Rwanda and Senegal. These events are conducted in partnership with local entrepreneur organizations and key ABH stakeholders including judges, Heroes and partners.
To date, ABH has received applications from entrepreneurs spanning all 54 African countries. Entrepreneurs from across the continent – regardless of sector, age or gender – are invited to participate. Applications can be submitted in English or French at: https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/en/apply-now.
Individuals are also encouraged to nominate eligible entrepreneurs who they believe are creating impactful and sustainable solutions to challenging issues here: https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/en/nominate
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH).
Press Contact:
Africa's Business Heroes Press Room:
abh.press@list.alibaba-inc.com
For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact:
English:
Tracy Walakira
tracy.walakira@apo-opa.com
French / Arabic:
Malika Bouayad
malika.bouayad@apo-opa.com
Follow ABH on:
X (https://apo-opa.info/3KY3OQs)
LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.info/3L1Cgda)
Instagram (https://apo-opa.info/3KZTXKa)
Facebook (https://apo-opa.info/3ylgNE9) and
YouTube (https://apo-opa.info/3YDG5bH)
For more information about ABH 2024, please visit https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/en/.
About Africa's Business Heroes:
The Africa's Business Heroes Prize Competition is a philanthropic initiative sponsored by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy. It aims to support, inspire and enable the next generation of African entrepreneurs across all sectors who are building a brighter future for the continent, by offering grant funding, training programs and support for the development of an entrepreneurial ecosystem. Over 10 years, each year the ABH Prize Competition features 10 entrepreneur finalists as they pitch their business to win a share of US$1.5 million in grant money.
A Leader in Auto Recycling and Spare Parts Lou Appels is one of Johannesburg’s premier destinations for quality used auto parts and scrap yard services. Established with a long history in the auto spares industry, Lou Appels offers an extensive inventory that caters to a wide range of vehicle makes and models. Comprehensive Services and …
Administrator addresses alleged outstanding payments for private student accommodation
National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Administrator, Freeman Nomvalo, has assigned staff to urgently address concerns around the outstanding payments for private student accommodation.
This follows complaints brought to the Administrator’s attention regarding alleged outstanding payments for private student accommodation and reports of students being locked out by landlords in some areas.
“We anticipate that these should be resolved during the course of the month of May 2024,” Nomvalo said.
To ensure that the issues do not further disrupt teaching and learning, the Administrator has urged the affected landlords to cooperate with the established NSFAS process to address all concerns.
Nomvalo said a dedicated email address has been established to process all disputes or concerns from landlords. All disputes and concerns regarding alleged outstanding payments for private student accommodation must be submitted to NSFASAccomProv@nsfas.org.za.
“All landlords are encouraged to deposit their disputes or concerns only in so far as outstanding payments are concerned. Submissions must be received not later than 10 May 2024,” Nomvalo said.
The Administrator apologised to all affected institutions, including students and landlords, and committed to a speedy resolution.
“We are committed to working with all the stakeholders to find workable solutions for the betterment of the post school education and training system,” Nomvalo said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 05/06/2024 - 10:03
Exploring the African Wilderness with Kosher Tours African safaris are an unparalleled adventure that beckons travellers with the allure of wild landscapes and exotic wildlife. For kosher travellers, the journey into Africa’s heartlands is now more accessible and enjoyable, thanks to tailored kosher safaris. These specialised tours ensure that dietary laws are meticulously adhered to, …
This Mother’s Day, May 12th, 2024, treat the special woman in your life to an unforgettable experience at Bay Harbour Market. Nestled in the heart of Cape Town, Bay Harbour Market offers a vibrant and broad shopping experience that immerses visitors in the rich cultures of the region. As you step into the market, you’re …
Mpho Sebeng was a talented South African actor known for his remarkable performances in both television and film. With his captivating presence on screen, he gained recognition and admiration from audiences across the country. The Soweto-born actor Mpho Sebeng died after he had an accident in Potchefstroom on Sunday, 5 May 2024. His family released […]
Securing Your Investments: Understanding Withholding Tax Reclaim Global investors often face the challenge of withholding taxes on income earned abroad. This can affect returns significantly, making it crucial to understand the process of reclaiming withholding tax. Countries have different treaties, like the UK Luxembourg double tax treaty, which are designed to prevent double taxation and …
Changing your driving test date in the UK can be a straightforward process, provided you know the necessary steps and guidelines. Whether due to unforeseen circumstances or a need for more preparation time, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) offers a flexible system for rescheduling. Here’s what you need to know about changing your …
The Growing Market for Used Engines In recent years, the market for used and second-hand car engines has seen significant growth. With the rise in vehicle prices and the push for more sustainable practices, more consumers and businesses are turning towards second-hand engines as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution. Why Choose Used Engines? Used …
More throwback movies at throwback prices from Ster-Kinekor in May Back to the Future 1 is one of those classic movies that take us back and yet it can be seen over and over. So, it makes sense that Ster-Kinekor has included it among its Throwback Cinema titles to be screened during May. What also …
Robert Wolk earns first King of the Hill title in Single Seater, Sports Car and Sports Prototypes category with Infinity Indycar V8-powered Pillbeam MP58 Dawie Joubert powers his way to first Modified Saloon Car victory in Ferrari-powered Lotus Exige after intense battle and lots of drama amongst top contenders JP van der Walt secures fourth […]
Newly launched Dube TradeZone attracts R1.8 billion in early investment
The Dube TradePort Corporation (DTPC) has officially launched the second phase of the highly successful industrial precinct and Special Economic Zone (SEZ) adjacent to the King Shaka International Airport, the Dube TradeZone 2.
The business entity of the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government recently hosted a ribbon-cutting event where they also previewed two factories worth over R180 million which are currently under construction within the precinct.
DTPC Board Chair, Mpumelelo Zikalala, said despite the constrained economic environment over the past two years, the corporation has secured seven private sector investors for Dube TradeZone 2.
Four of these investors have begun constructing their facilities.
The total private sector investment value secured in Dube TradeZone 2 amounts to R1.8 billion and is expected to create 600 jobs within the next five years.
Dube TradeZone 2 will target investors in the manufacturing, logistics and automotive sectors while facilitating the planned expansion of several phase one-based enterprises.
The launch of the second phase of the TradeZone follows the successful implementation of Dube TradeZone 1, which has 50 investors and full tenants. These include international companies such as Samsung, Mahindra, DHL, Chem Energy and PepsiCo-Futurelife.
Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, welcomed the investment as he reflected on the 30 years of freedom and democracy.
He noted the establishment of SEZ as one of the achievements of a democratic government.
He cited this investment as an indication that SEZs are instruments for job creation and economic development.
“As government, we are focusing on SEZ for a good reason. They are designed for specific developmental purposes, to develop export-orientated industries, attract foreign direct investment and technology transfer and achieve the generation of employment opportunities.”
The MEC said SEZs are an effective instrument to resolve “disturbing” levels of inequality, poverty and unemployment, which are strongly marked by spatial, racial, class and gender factors.
In addition to job creation, Duma said SEZs are broadening the municipal revenue collection base to improve the quality of life in the municipal areas, as well as the quality of municipal services.
“This makes SEZs one of the key instruments for municipal economic growth and development,” the MEC explained.
To date, the 26-hectare TradeZone 1 has attracted more than R2.8 billion in private sector investment from enterprises focused on air-related logistics, distribution and light manufacturing.
It includes the Dube TradeHouse, a dedicated facility for freight forwarders and shippers with airside access via an overhead conveyor air bridge to the adjacent, state-of-the-art Dube Cargo Terminal.
Dube TradeZone 1 is home to notable exporters that service the sub-Saharan African market as well as markets in Asia, Europe, and the United States.
In 2023/24, Dube TradePort tenants exported goods worth R610 million.
Dube TradeZone 2, will open an additional 45 hectares of industrial land for development and brings to market another 23 fully serviced sites, which range in size from 3 000m² to 57 000m².
It will also include three Dube TradePort-owned warehouses, one of which will accommodate medium-sized businesses enabling the expansion of small businesses located in the mini factories.
The two factories include the R166-million Yangtze Optical Africa Cable plant and R17.5 million development by HRMP, a 100% Black South African-owned logistics company that specialises in the warehousing and distribution of graphite electrodes. This new facility was funded by Ithala Development Finance.
Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TKZN) CEO, Sihle Ngcamu, welcomed further foreign investment by Yangtze Optical Africa Cable, which is already producing optical fibre cables and home solution cables for the local, Zambian, Namibian and Botswanan telecommunications markets at its facility in TradeZone 1.
This latest investment is expected to deliver a further 250 jobs over the next five years.
To date, Dube TradeZone has attracted a total of R4.6 billion in private sector investment and created more than 5 000 permanent jobs. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 05/05/2024 - 08:11
IEC invites citizens to pray for peaceful elections
The Electoral Commission (IEC) will today participate in a National Day of Prayer ahead of the 29 May 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
Organised by the South African Council of Churches (SACC), the IEC has called on citizens to join the prayer service that will take place on Sunday, 5 May 2024, at Grace Bible Church in Soweto, Johannesburg.
The commission said the event is part of the ongoing partnership with different sectors of society to ensure a successful Election Day.
“The service calls for a powerful moment of unity and prayer as we seek divine guidance for peaceful and safe elections,” the SACC said.
SACC Acting General-Secretary, Reverend Mzwandile Molo, said told the SABC that the council has committed to working hard to make sure the country’s elections are done peacefully and in a non-intimidatory manner since 1994.
“So, if there’s anybody who incites violence, that person needs all of us to ask them to refrain from that because the scars of violence that is caused by politics are too deep and they have not healed right now. We all want to make sure that we do not remind ourselves of the violence of the past,” said Molo.
The SACC is an association of affiliated Christian churches and organisations that come together in action for social justice.
As an instrument and servant of its members, the council said it was committed to expressing, through proclamation and programmes, the united witness of the church in South Africa, especially in matters of national debate.
“Let’s come together as one nation in prayer,” the SACC added.
For citizens who cannot be there physically, the service will be streamed live on the SACC Facebook page from 2pm or they can tune in to Radio Pulpit or Radiokansel. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 05/05/2024 - 12:35
IEC finalising preparations for voting abroad
The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) says it is finalising preparations for the 78 092 South African citizens who applied to cast their special vote abroad.
Working with the Department of International Cooperation and Cooperation (DIRCO), the IEC said it has begun shipping voting materials. These include voting booths, ballot boxes and papers, stationery packs, and all the relevant lists.
The commission said voting out of the country will take place in 111 foreign missions.
South African citizens in Algiers, Amman, Cairo, Kuwait City, Jeddah, Ramallah, Riyadh and Tehran will vote on 17 May.
The rest of the 102 missions will make their mark on Saturday, 18 May 2024.
The voting stations will be open from 7am to 7pm, allowing 78 092 voters to exercise their right to vote in South Africa’s 2024 National Elections.
“In respect of the mission in the United Kingdom, the commission has determined two days of special voting. These are Saturday and Sunday, 18 and 19 May 2024 from 7am to 9pm.”
The IEC explained that the extended voting hours are intended to enable proper arrangements for the 24 535 voters registered to cast their vote at the mission.
“Similarly, extended voting hours have been prescribed for the mission in Washington DC and New York. The voting hours are 7am to 9pm.”
As per IEC, the largest international voting stations by population are London (24 535), followed by Hague (6 659), Canberra (3 674), Dubai (3 266), Dublin (3 040), Wellington (2 292), Abu Dhabi (1 825), Washington DC (1 799) and Berlin (1 476).
Voters will need to be present in person at the mission where they are registered or where they successfully applied for by VEC 10 notice.
“After the voting process, cast national compensatory ballots will be transported through a source channel back to the national office of the Electoral Commission for counting. The votes will be counted in the presence of agents presenting contestants.”
The IEC has since thanked its stakeholders, staff and employees from DIRCO for tirelessly working to ensure that registered voters make their mark in the upcoming elections.
“The commission is aware that voting is not possible in some countries for security reasons. DIRCO has confirmed that the missions in Sudan, Tel Aviv and Kyiv remain closed. Unavoidably and regrettably, voters registered at these missions will not be able to vote in the forthcoming elections if they were not able to make arrangements by the 22 April deadline to vote at another mission.”
Meanwhile, IEC said it will operate extended hours on both voting days abroad to assist voters with queries. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 05/05/2024 - 13:09