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In today’s world, where sustainability is becoming more crucial, harnessing solar energy is a significant step towards a green and efficient energy solution. Sun Savings is at the forefront of this revolution, offering a unique “rent to own” solar system opportunity for homeowners looking to make a positive environmental and economical change. Benefits of …
We’re not facing an immediate fiscal crisis, says Institute for Economic Justice
Born and raised in Thembisa, Johannesburg, young Mongezi Masombuka (30) is the founder and Managing Director of a successful IT and business solutions company and is steadily making waves in the tech industry. Having only recently celebrated his 30th birthday, Masombuka has already conquered a myriad of challenges. Stopping at nothing, his passion for knowledge …
Wage bill at flagship Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital balloons by R48-million over a year as politicians appoint family members and friends
It’s hard to blame global warming for a single weather event, but storms like last week’s are becoming more likely
Representing Africa's most industrialized nation, South Africa has a strategic development plan in place centered on an integrated and diversified energy industry. While faced with an energy crisis, the country has prioritized regulatory reforms under efforts to attract new investment into the entire energy value chain, thereby stimulating power generation and heavy-fuel expansion. Policies such as the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Program (REIPPP) and the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) serve as catalysts for growth, and during this year's African Energy Week (AEW) Conference & Exhibition – scheduled for October 16-20 in Cape Town – South Africa's Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Gwede Mantashe will provide further insight into the country's just energy transition approach.
Mantashe is set to deliver an opening keynote address at the conference, joining a strong slate of regional energy ministers alongside Namibian President Hage Geingob and Senegalese President Macky Sall to discuss the future of Africa's energy sector.
Under Minister Mantashe's leadership, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has made great strides towards opening up the South African energy market. With energy security top of the agenda, the Ministry has been making a big play for investment, engaging with a suite of foreign investors and energy firms to advance both offshore and onshore exploration, the development of large-scale renewable energy systems and the adoption of new technologies.
While development has been slow, milestones reached by foreign and regional energy companies have set the country apart as one of the most promising plays for hydrocarbon investment. Two major gas discoveries made in 2019 and 2020 – the Brulpadda and Luiperd discoveries – identified nearly 1 billion barrels of gas condensate each. Neighboring success in the Namibian side of the Orange Basin – with five major finds made since 2022 – have further enhanced the country's offshore attractiveness.
Progress is gradually being made to explore this acreage, with TotalEnergies recently have been given the go-ahead to conduct exploratory works in Block 5/6/7. Onshore, the DMRE estimates the Karoo Basin to hold as much as 209 trillion cubic feet of gas, with various projects underway to confirm and exploit this potential. Kinetiko Energy and the Industrial Development Corporation are developing a Liquefied Natural Gas plant in the country, capable of producing 500 MW of power. The country is also getting to auction up to 10 onshore Blocks for shale gas exploration, with the bid round set to open in 2024 or 2025 once the relevant legislation is passed. These developments are positioning the country as both a highly attractive and increasingly competitive gas market, presenting strategic opportunities for advancing energy security.
However, South Africa's energy expansion transcends oil and gas. The country has been dubbed one of the most promising markets for green hydrogen adoption, given substantial untapped renewable energy resources and growing demand for heavy-fuels. Under the Hydrogen Society Roadmap – a framework for the development of projects across the country – South Africa is seeing a wave of industry-advancing developments kick off. The DMRE introduced a R300-billion investment pipeline, hoping to capitalize on the country's potential to produce 13 million tons of green hydrogen and derivatives by 2050. To date, 19 projects have been identified for accelerate development, including the 400-kt-per-annum Boegoebaai Green Hydrogen Project; 780,000 ton-per-annum HIVE Ammonia Project; and 185-kt Hydrogen Valley Project, among other developments.
South African green hydrogen pipeline will require between 140 and 300 GW of renewable energy and will introduce up to 3.7 million job opportunities, giving the country a $60 billion GDP boost. Policies such as the REIPPP and the IRP have enticed investment while underscoring the role a diversified energy mix plays in the country.
During last year's edition, Minister Mantashe stated that, “Many people talk about 600 million without access to electricity, until we break that number down, then we are talking for the sake of talking. Energy is more than electricity.” The approach by the DMRE to invest in every available resource is underpinned by the objective of making energy poverty history – the mandate of the AEW 2023 conference.
“Minister Gwede Mantashe has demonstrated time and time again a commitment to an energy secure South Africa. As a strong advocate for a just and inclusion energy transition, Minister Mantashe promotes the role each and every resource plays in Africa's energy future. His efforts to secure investment and drive development across the entire energy sector are poised to unlock new opportunities for economic prosperity,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (AEC).
Minister Mantashe will deliver an opening keynote address on the first day of the conference. His participation will strengthen dialogue and deals while promoting the need for a just and inclusion energy transition in Africa ahead of COP28 this year.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
About African Energy Week:
AEW is the AEC's annual conference, exhibition and networking event. AEW 2023 will unite African energy policymakers and stakeholders with global investors to discuss and maximize opportunities within the continent's entire energy industry. For more information about AEW 2023, visit https://AECWeek.com.
Increased police visibility on Mabopane freeway to deal with armed robberies
Gauteng Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Elias Mawela has mobilised extra resources to crackdown on robberies on the Mabopane highway following a blockade of the road on Tuesday by community members.
Residents had raised concerns about the high incidence of crime on that stretch of the road.
On Wednesday, a team from the Organised Crime Unit conducted an operation in the area with the aim of targeting the alleged robbers.
One of the members stopped next to the road under the pretense of relieving himself while the others were doing surveillance. As he walked towards the trees, two men emerged from the tunnel that runs under the R80 with firearms pointing at the member. The members on surveillance swiftly reacted and pounced on the suspects.
The suspects had a backpack with two jackets and two different hats suspected to be used as a change clothes after robberies. The firearms were also established to be toy guns.
A preliminary investigation led the members to an address where they found a woman who confirmed that she bought the cellphone from one of the suspects and she pointed the police to another woman who also allegedly bought a cellphone from the same suspect.
The two women were arrested for possession of suspected stolen property
Lt Gen Mawela applauded the members for their swift response and assured the public that the police will continue to deal decisively with crime in the province.
The suspects are expected to appear before court soon and police investigations continue.
The public has been encouraged to be vigilant when using that road and not to stop next to the freeway but rather drive to the nearest filling station. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 09:51
Awareness drive intensified after Soweto poisoning incident
The Gauteng Health Department's Outbreak Response team has committed to intensify its awareness drive following a food poisoning incident in Soweto.
This comes after Neo Khang and Katlego Mbatha, both six years old, lost their lives after they ate biscuits and juice bought from a local shop on Sunday.
Meanwhile, a three-year-old boy is recovering well from home, while two are currently admitted at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital.
“A four-year-old male who is recovering well and is due for discharge and a six-year-old girl who remains critical but stable in ICU.”
On Tuesday and Wednesday, the response team visited the affected families to provide support and counselling and to conduct further investigations.
They also spent time at Naledi and surrounding areas engaging locals and conducting health education about food handling, preparation, storage and food safety.
They also shared the importance of checking food expiry labels, and hand washing before handling food and sensitising them on what to do when presenting with food poisoning symptoms.
These include cramping, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea.
“The health education also covered spaza shops in the area and includes checking compliance in terms of the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act and food labelling regulations.”
Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko has since passed her condolences to the families that have lost their children and wished a speedy recovery to those who are still receiving medical care.
“The tragic incident is another painful reminder that we must do more to ensure greater public awareness and increase the level of alertness when it comes to the foodstuffs communities are exposed to,” she said.
The department is urging the public to visit their nearest health facilities when they present with symptoms such as vomiting, sudden chest pains, body aches, fever or foam in the mouth.
The outbreak response team comprised of health inspectors from the municipality and the province, Ward-Based Outreach Teams, Communicable Disease Control specialists, Surveillance Officers, Infection Control and Health Promoters will continue to conduct awareness campaigns in Naledi and surrounding areas on Thursday and Friday.
“The police have since taken samples for further processing. The source of the food poisoning is not confirmed subject to the police investigation.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 12:38
Work underway to recover Germiston to Joburg rail line
The Gauteng Infrastructure team is working on recovering the Germiston to Johannesburg rail line following the collapse of a footbridge, said the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA).
Two pedestrians were reported to be injured when the steel footbridge collapsed on Wednesday. They were taken to a nearby hospital.
“This work follows the removal of parts of the bridge and debris from the perway/main tracks. The remaining parts of the bridge and debris will be removed today,” the agency said on Thursday.
The team started the recovery work on Wednesday evening, working into the early hours of Thursday morning.
PRASA said it is pleased with the progress made in recovering the infrastructure so it can resume services, which is expected within the next 24-48 hours.
An investigation into what led to the collapse is underway. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 13:00
The company is in the Labour Court on Thursday afternoon to get an urgent interdict against the strikers
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) and KFC South Africa celebrate the globally renowned World Teachers’ Day, which recognises and celebrates teachers...
Educators honoured at National Teaching Awards
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has reaffirmed government’s commitment to reinforcing teacher support and prioritising the professional growth of those who are the key drivers of basic education.
On behalf of the nation's people, the Deputy President saluted all teachers for their commendable and unparalleled contributions.
“Acknowledging that teaching is a labour of love and passion, as Government we are committed to reinforcing teacher support, and prioritising the professional growth of the women and men who are key drivers of basic education.
“Such a posture is critical in that it boosts their personal prowess and propels our schools towards unparalleled achievements. The wellness of all public servants in the Department of Basic Education must as such remain a priority, " he said.
The Deputy President was delivering remarks at the National Teachers’ Awards, held at the Hatfield Christian Church in Thaba Tshwane, Pretoria on Thursday.
This year marks 23 years since the first National Teachers’ Awards took place as spearheaded by the former Minister of Education, the late Professor Kader Asmal.
Mashatile said the awards will always serve as a reminder of the contributions of Professor Asmal to social transformation in South Africa, to the extent that the Lifetime Achievement Award is named after him.
The Deputy President used his address to recognise the daily achievements of teachers who quietly inspire students to overcome obstacles in life by believing in them, igniting a passion for learning in young, bright minds, and quietly planting the seeds of optimism for a better future in the classroom.
He said these are the triumphs that may not always make headlines, but carry children and youth towards the kind of prosperous society that we all envisage.
“In celebrating our teachers today, let us therefore renew our commitment to supporting them in every possible way, for in their success lies the success of our nation,” he said.
The Deputy President highlighted that unemployment, poverty and inequality are the three main challenges that plaque society today, adding that youth, women and other marginalised groups bear the brunt of these.
It is therefore, he said, the government’s responsibility to ensure that its policies are aligned across various departmental priorities.
“Our commitment to building a brighter future for our children is unwavering. We have taken note of the challenges, particularly concerning reports that our young learners struggle to read for meaning. A fundamental aspect of improving our education system hinges upon building robust foundations of literacy and numeracy from the earliest ages,” he said.
Mashatile highlighted that the system shift of Early Childhood Development (ECD) from the Department of Social Development to Basic Education is a testament to governmnet’s dedication to this cause.
He said this offers a ripe opportunity to instil these foundational competencies right from the early stages of education.
Turning to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Mashatile said it presents both challenges and opportunities for us.
With the introduction of avant-garde subjects like Coding, Robotics, Data Analytics, and Science Technology, he said government aims to keep South Africa at the forefront of global innovation.
“Our fervent belief is that by equipping our learners with these competencies, we're not only making them globally competitive but are also paving the way for a technologically advanced and prosperous nation.
“We recognise that our teachers must be equally adept and updated to achieve this. We've begun substantial investments in training programmes to ensure our educators are well-versed with emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and others.
“By doing this, we aim to cultivate a symbiotic growth pattern where our educators and learners evolve together, harnessing the boundless potential of the digital age,” he said.
Turning to climate change and the recent climatic disasters, the Deputy President said these events and others highlight the urgent need for environmental education and training in order to equip communities with the requisite skills and capacity to both respond to, and prepare for the inevitability of climate disasters.
He emphasised that education has an important role in raising awareness and changing behaviour. Globally, educators are tasked with the monumental role of raising awareness about climate change and nurturing a proactive generation in finding solutions.
“As we charter our course into this new era, the importance of a well-rounded, technologically adept, and socially responsible education cannot be emphasised enough.
“And at the heart of this mission are all the teachers of our country - those of you honoured today, and those who also dedicate themselves in earnest to the development of our children and youth through education. Let us continue on this journey, hand in hand, as we mould future generations that are equipped, empowered, and enlightened,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 13:57
Companies in the Metals and Engineering Sector that are keen to showcase their innovative solutions and gain industry acclaim still have time to enter the SEIFSA Awards for Excellence as entries close on October 20. The Awards, which are due to take place on November 17, give companies of all sizes an opportunity to step …
A dynamic panel discussion on the second day of the Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) 2023 summit will explore the current landscape for investing in Africa's critical minerals sector, as the global energy transition, geopolitical considerations and supply chain disruptions continue to impact the development of new projects.
Under the theme, Investing in African Critical Minerals and Rare Earths Projects Today, the panel will address the challenges, opportunities and strategies associated with investing in Africa's critical minerals – and specifically, the Rare Earth Elements (REE) – sector, providing unparalleled insights into the region's resource potential and its role in meeting rising demand for these essential resources.
Panelists include Jude Kearney, Chair of the Sub-Saharan Africa Committee for the Export-Import Bank of the United States and Managing Partner of ASAFO & Co., US Office; Lloyd Pengilly, Chairman of Qora Capital, South Africa; Patricia Rodrigues, Associate Director at Control Risks; Nick Mitchell, Chief Operating Officer of Renergen; Jonathan Veeran, Partner at Webber Wentzel, South Africa; and Petur Georgesson, Founder and CEO of Technology Metals Market. The panel will be moderated by Olivier Barbeau, Managing Partner and EMR Leader for Africa at Moore Global.
Uniting multi-sectoral expertise from financiers, project developers, consultants and trading platforms, the panel will discuss forecast shifts in critical minerals supply and demand curves between now and 2050, identify the most interesting critical minerals projects taking place on the continent and evaluate how these projects have been able to progress through various stages of development to generate returns for investors.
Panelists will also examine the role of partnerships among governments, companies and local communities in ensuring successful and responsible investments in the sector, as well as fiscal and policy incentives conducive to attracting and retaining investments in the sector.
The Critical Minerals Africa 2023 summit on October 17-19 serves to position Africa as the primary investment destination for critical minerals. The event is organized by Energy Capital & Power and is held alongside the African Energy Week 2023 conference (https://AECWeek.com/) on October 16-20, offering delegates access to the full scope of energy, mining and finance leaders in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
Mop up operations continue across Western Cape
The Western Cape Provincial Government says it has been working around the clock to re-open roads and assist communities that have been badly affected by the recent heavy rains and flooding.
Giving an update on mop up operations, Head of the Department of Infrastructure, Jacqueline Gooch, said while the province has been working around the clock to re-open the roads along with their partners, some mop up operations are taking some time to complete due to the extent of the damage.
“While main routes and alternatives to main routes are prioritised, at times, despite being a high priority, we have to wait for the flood water to subside. This is in the case where a road remains under water or where landslips have occurred. For example, both Clarence Drive and Franschhoek Pass have significant landslips, and repair work cannot commence until the slips have stabilised,” Gooch said.
Gooch explained that when prioritising the road repairs, the provincial government considers the main routes and alternatives to main routes; access to communities that have been cut off completely for humanitarian relief, food and emergency services; and roads which are of economic importance, such as those needed for movement of goods/exports, among other things.
On the estimated total cost of storm damage, Gooch said the costs for repairs cannot be confirmed at this stage, until all inspections and assessments of damage have been carried out.
“It is likely to be a considerable amount, when taking into account for example among other costs the number of bridges and roads that have been completely washed away,” she said.
Gooch urged residents to pay attention to road closure signs, as they are in place for their safety.
With saturated ground, she said, water causes expansion in certain cases and when an area dries, it contracts again.
“While much has been done in terms of mop-up operations and responding to communities’ needs, we are still in the process of our disaster response and will be for some time. As we further inspect the road network, we are discovering additional damage to infrastructure,” Gooch said.
Meanwhile, the provincial government has appealed to citizens who assist displaced families with donations in the form of blankets, water, dry and non-perishable food, baby food and toiletries.
Citizens who are able to donate towards relief efforts are requested to drop off any donations at the following offices of the SA Red Cross Society:
• Wynberg: 21 Broad Road, Wynberg
• Greyton: 11 Pointers Way, Heuwelkroon, Greyton
• Hermanus: 2A Aberdeen Street, Hermanus
• Knysna: 25 Trotter Street, Knysna
The province has expressed its appreciation to all officials, including teams on the ground and partners, for hard work thus far and the work currently underway. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 15:10
Chemicals, cosmetics sectors to benefit from AfCFTA
The chemicals, cosmetics, plastics and pharmaceutical sectors are set to get acquainted with the benefits offered under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
This will occur during the virtual workshop on the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) that will be hosted by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) on Wednesday, 11 October 2023.
The dtic has already embarked on provincial awareness workshops, which provided a platform for information sharing with the private sector on the benefits offered under the agreement.
The workshops were also used to identify South African companies in various provinces, in the targeted sector masterplans and other priority sectors that have the capacity to export to the rest of the continent.
More workshops focusing on different sectors are being organised.
The workshop seeks to engage the chemicals, cosmetics, plastics, and pharmaceutical sectors, as well as industry agencies, associations and export councils, including their members on the benefits of exporting under the AfCFTA.
According to the Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina, the interactive workshop is critical as it will afford the department an opportunity to provide a status update on the progress made in the development of the National Implementation Plan of the AfCFTA.
This also includes the establishment of the National Implementation Committee.
“The department will update the sectors on the role expected of them in the implementation of the AfCFTA and essentially obtain challenges that the sectors may be facing in accessing the market in the continent. Obtaining this intelligence will assist the department to unlock the bottlenecks that the sectors may be facing,” Gina said.
Additionally, the workshop seeks to communicate and engage with the private sector, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), as well as women and youth-owned export ready businesses, on the status of the implementation of the AfCFTA, including opportunities for South African companies to participate in preferential trade beyond the Southern African region.
“I am making a call to all these sectors to take advantage of the opportunities that the agreement is expected to unlock for companies.
“This agreement intends to create a large single continental market with a population of about 1.3 billion people and a combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately USD3.4 trillion and we cannot lose out on it,” she said.
Gina describes the chemicals, cosmetics, plastics and pharmaceutical sectors as important to the South African economy as they play a critical role and are interwoven with the manufacturing sector which creates much needed employment.
South Africa is Africa’s largest market for cosmetics and personal care products.
In 2018, the sector recorded close to US$3.2bn in revenue. Imports of cosmetics have almost doubled in the last 10 years, presenting opportunities for localising production.
Against this backdrop, Gina says it is critical to support the sector and all others to produce locally and export to other markets particularly to the continent. This she says will reduce the import dependency and create more jobs. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 15:18
Tourism Equity Fund welcomed
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has welcomed Cabinet’s concurrence for the implementation of the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF).
Following a protracted court case, earlier this year, an out-of-court TEF settlement was reached with the applicants and the court application was subsequently withdrawn.
The Department of Tourism has been given the green light to implement the amended Tourism Equity Fund in line with existing legislation.
The R1.2 billion fund is managed by the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (sefa) on behalf of the department and was tailored to provide a combination of debt and grant finance to facilitate equity acquisition and entrepreneurship.
“The Department of Tourism and sefa are currently finalising the amended Tourism Equity Fund. We will announce the call for TEF applications by end of October 2023 and will also provide clarity on previous Tourism Equity Fund applications,” Minister De Lille said.
“The Department of Tourism remains committed to advancing the transformation agenda through creating equitable opportunities to realise an inclusive and revived tourism economy,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 13:59
Kannaland also does not conduct all the water tests it is supposed to
Africa has abundant economic potential and the enormous uptake of digital technology socially and in the business sector, has positioned the continent for explosive growth, but there are challenges that lie in wait. Many of these will be spotlighted at the 2023 Africa Tech Festival (https://apo-opa.info/3myppVu) in Cape Town 13-16 November, along with innovative solutions all led by a line-up of headline speakers including several African government ministers.
“Businesses across Africa have benefitted enormously from leap-frogging traditional technology to the digital world and wireless connectivity, and this is spurring incredible growth across the continent,” says James Williams, Director, Events | Connecting Africa | Informa Tech. “The incredible advantages of digitalisation are, however, dependent on a plentiful and reliable source of power, and it's essential that the public sector has strong strategies in place to drive this growth.”
The tech world is driven by entrepreneurial innovators, but it relies heavily on the public sector to provide infrastructure, regulations and often funding to smooth the way for technological advancement, especially in terms of providing access and infrastructure for the public to access to engage with and benefit from the technology.
Among the 200-plus speakers, presenters and panellists will be Gwede Mantashe, Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, whose input on how the South African government is tackling the critical issue of loadshedding will no doubt ensured a packed hall of delegates all hopeful of hearing positive news. The dynamic H.E. Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, South Africa's Minister in the Presidency responsible for electricity, will provide backup to the Minister in shining a light on the country's energy crisis.
Not to be missed, is the panel discussion ‘Universal Power Access: Plotting a Route Through Africa's Electricity Challenge', which puts the future of digital transformation squarely on the shoulders of electricity and citizens' access to energy.
In Africa, energy insecurity has been a chronic inhibitor of economic development for decades, and continues to cripple enterprise growth and innovation, and the panel will unpack why a staggering 30 of Africa's 54 nations face daily power shortages and supply interruptions, all of which play economic havoc with local business and consumer activity. It's important to understand how the collaboration of public and private funding is essential for striking the right balance between the two sectors to create the perfect solution to the crisis.
Also addressing delegates will be H.E. Ousmane Gaoual Diallo, the Republic of Guinea's Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, as well as Namibia's Minister of Information and Communication Technology, H.E. Minister Dr Peya Mushelenga, and their Executive Director & Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, Dr Audrin Mathe.
Another key area of public sector engagement with the tech sector will be discussed in the keynote panel ‘Unleashing Digital Prosperity: How Progressive Policy is Shaping Africa's Tech Transformation'. This session will present African Ministers from across the continent with an opportunity to share how they are tailoring policy to their unique national environment and priorities, in addition to the need for a more continental, collaborative approach.
“The process of developing and implementing policy across myriad industries and sectors is, however, an inherently complex and lengthy process and relies heavily on industry consultation, sector-specific legislation and flexibility to evolve with rapidly changing sectors,” says Williams, highlighting the importance of the growing number of Ministerial delegations at Africa Tech Festival year on year.
Among the high-level speakers sharing with delegates over the three days are:
Aside from presenting cutting-edge content and a speaker line-up of note, the Africa Tech Festival is also the meeting place of Africa's largest community of tech champions and offers this vibrant grouping the ideal space to connect and interact. However, just as these connections are so important for the industry, so is the connecting of 1.2-billion people across Africa's 54 unique nations, vital for the continent's growth, with cross-border connectivity a particular concern.
Continental broadband penetration is currently around 45%, but this varies dramatically across regions. Connectivity is critical to the rapidly expanding SME business community, as well as for wider socioeconomic development needs. Looking at this the fireside chat, ‘Connectivity Beyond Borders: Unlocking Universal Broadband Access in Africa', will explore how innovations in strategy and technology are aiming to ensure that no individual, business, or community is left behind in Africa's pursuit of universal broadband access.
While most of the discussions and presentations relate to most players in the industry, the event has been structured in such a way as to ensure that specialists are also able to sit in on the most relevant content to them, either by staying in one venue for a series of talks, or by exploring the ‘centre stages' in each of the exhibition halls in which masterclasses and presentations will take place.
Other major topics on offer this year include:
This year, the Africa Tech Festival will offer delegates several new features, along with six presentation stages and a staggering amount of content, while hundreds of exhibitors on the show floor will once again engage with the brightest tech gurus from around the continent and globally, who will all descend on the Cape Town International Convention Centre to discover the latest products and services and to connect with other tech professionals.
Williams shares that: “This year we have added a new interactive feature to the festival - a dedicated tech demo area that we are sure will draw crowds throughout the three days. It's a chance to engage with the cutting-edge innovations that Africa needs to know about… as well as some of the exciting innovations that Africa has to offer the world.”
For more information, please see website here: Africa Tech Festival 2023 - The Home of AfricaCom & AfricaTech (https://apo-opa.info/3myppVu)
View all ticket options for Africa Tech Festival, including start-up passes, here (https://apo-opa.info/3Q04o2r).
(Please note that all requests are adjudicated and there may be some delay before you hear back from us).
List of Speakers:
Dion JerlingCo-FounderConnect Earth (https://apo-opa.info/46gFyRs)
Richard CazaletExec: Strategy and TransformationTelkom SA (https://apo-opa.info/3ZFTeTq)
Miriam AltmanDirector: Altman Advisory & Professor of 4IR PracticeUniversity of Johannesburg (https://apo-opa.info/3F2uvzd)
Guy ZibiManaging DirectorXalam Analytics (https://apo-opa.info/46vWqE5)
Robert AOUADCEOISOCEL Telecom (https://apo-opa.info/48DshE8)
Ronan De RenesseSenior Research Director, Service Provider MarketsOmdia (https://apo-opa.info/3ZEV4nH)
Russell SouthwoodCEOBalancing Act (https://apo-opa.info/3Fad7bL)
Matt ReedChief Analyst, Service ProviderOmdia (https://apo-opa.info/3Q0SYLJ)
Vuyani TatiManaging PartnerAfriTech Catalytic Growth Fund (https://apo-opa.info/3Q2cdEx)
Jocelyn NyaguseHead of Marketing and StorytellingStartupbootcamp AfriTech (https://apo-opa.info/3Q38KWg)
Nathan-Ross AdamsData & Tech LawyerMichalsons (https://apo-opa.info/45l5JVP)
Paula GilbertEditorConnecting Africa (https://apo-opa.info/45nYfRL)
Matshepo SehlohoAssociate EditorConnecting Africa (https://apo-opa.info/45jiVKW)
Calvin GovenderGeneral Manager ICT Fixed ServicesMTN (https://apo-opa.info/46yJixt)
Marjorie Saint-LotCountry Manager for Uber Ghana and the Ivory CoastUber (https://apo-opa.info/45minno)
Joseph NdabaCEO of Mafikeng Digital Innovation Hub4IR Commissioner: Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Commission (https://apo-opa.info/48IAhUv)
Marion BalandraFounder & CEOMeridian Remote Teams (https://apo-opa.info/3RHf8E3)
Evan JonesCEOThe Collective X (https://apo-opa.info/3RP8Dir)
Badi SudhakaranCo-FounderVALR.com (https://apo-opa.info/45iLiIU)
Nfaly SyllaChief of CabinetMinistry of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, Republic of Guinea (https://apo-opa.info/46yzZxs)
Mumbi Ndung'uChief Growth and OperationsPower Learn Project (https://apo-opa.info/48QSa3w)
Dr Cherise DunnCo-founder and COOSouth Africa Makes (https://apo-opa.info/46yrSks)
Judith GardinerVice President, Growth and Emerging MarketsEquinix (https://apo-opa.info/46jvC9O)
Robinson Tombari SibeMD/CEODigital Footprints (https://apo-opa.info/3Q3M4oW)
Bernard WanyamaPresident, Kampala ChapterISACA (https://apo-opa.info/3tgQSyh)
Ryan Van den BerghManaging Executive: Group Technology Strategy, Architecture, Spectrum & AssuranceVodacom (https://apo-opa.info/45l7DWt)
Andy HalsallCEOpoa! Internet (https://apo-opa.info/46ArUrZ)
Sabrine ChennaouiCo-FounderMONSAPO (https://apo-opa.info/3tjBYHA)
Pablo MlikotaSenior Vice President – International Mobility Servicese& GROUP (https://apo-opa.info/3ZEWvT7)
John DaviesTMT Equity Research Analyst, EMEA, TMTBloomberg Intelligence (https://apo-opa.info/3Q4dAmn)
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Tech Festival.
For media enquiries, interviews and/or images please contact:
Kaz Henderson
kaz@networxpr.co.za
Call on +27 (0) 82 339 1199.
Social Media Handles:
Facebook: @africatechfestival
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Dear Editor Since the Military Veterans Act was enacted in 2011, Military Veterans are yet to receive their pension benefits because the Department of Military Veterans (DMV) has not published the Pension Regulations. The Pension Regulations were signed by the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Thandi Modise, on 31 July 2023. On 20 September …
ALICE: Cricket South Africa (CSA) is pleased to announce cricket-led tourism initiative which is aimed at fostering talent and promotion of...
Dear Editor The Springboks and Proteas are at risk of being unable to fly the South African national flag, forced to play under a neutral flag at their respective World Cups, and not being allowed to sing our national anthem, thanks to the ANC government. For our national sports teams to be at the risk …
Vaal Central Water pledges full support to board of directors
Vaal Central Water Board has pledged its full support to its newly appointed Board of Directors.
The newly appointed 12-member board, effective from 01 October 2023, was spearheaded by Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, following a rigorous selection process.
The Vaal-Central Water Board used to be previously known as Bloem Water.
Welcoming the new board members, the entity said it will include esteemed individuals, and carries with it an amalgamation of vast experience from both the public and private sector.
“Their diverse backgrounds, insights, and expertise will prove instrumental in driving the Board's vision forward. In ensuring that the board not only aligns with the entity’s values and goals but also resonates with the unique needs of the Northern Cape and the Free State; both Provinces are represented,” the entity said in a statement.
The newly appointed members of the board include Makhosini Solomon Msibi (Chairperson); Lungile Right Bomela (Deputy Chairperson); Luvuyo Xola Ntoyi; Elizabeth Cornelia Rockman; Ntikila Sandlana; Andrew Modisaotsile Rantho; Desmond Solomon Ezekiel Fransman; Matshego Gail Mercy Jele; Boipelo Felicity Nakedi; Advocate Tshepiso Doreen Segoe-Backward; Thabo Moses Manyoni; and Gugulethu Wendy Phakathi.
“In the spirit of continuity and retaining institutional memory, it is noteworthy to mention that the 12-member Board has 4 members who served in the previous Board. This is another defining moment for Vaal Central Water Board following the announcement and gazette of the new name of the Water Board by the Minister transitioning from “Bloem Water” to “Vaal Central Water Board” on 14 July 2023,” the entity said.
Swift plans to deal with water service challenges
Meanwhile, Mchunu has urged the incoming board to be agile in putting plans in place to deal with water service challenges affecting both provinces, including areas that were previously un-serviced.
Mchunu, recently met with the old and new boards of the entity to lead a process of handover from the old to the new board, and also inducted the new board on their role, responsibilities, and functions in the new entity, in order for the new board to hit the ground running.
“The idea behind the reconfiguration of Water Boards is to ensure that water boards increase access to un-serviced areas, enhance market capitalisation for infrastructure projects, and reduce skewed supply of water,” Mchunu said.
Mchunu commended the outgoing board members of the Vaal-Central Water for the smooth transition process from Bloem Water, and welcomed the incoming board. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 10:19
Dear Editor Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande completely lost the plot at last night’s parliamentary portfolio committee meeting on higher education when he accused the committee of overstepping its mandate regarding our reasonable request that National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) direct payment service providers present additional information to the committee. The Minister’s outburst was …