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Navigating the Complex World of Logistics: A Comprehensive Guide
In the vast and intricate web of global commerce and transportation, having a reliable logistics partner is paramount. This article explores the diverse range of services offered by a logistics company that stands tall among its peers, providing solutions to cater to various industry needs. General Courier Services For businesses seeking swift and efficient …
Call for a review of National Strategic Position on GBVF
Call for a review of National Strategic Plan on GBVF
South African children have reiterated a call for the review of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NSP-GBVF).
The call was made during consultations with children on Pillar 7 of the NSP on GBVF, held simultaneously in Limpopo, the Northern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday.
The Department of Social Development has been on the road consulting children on the NSP-GBVF - the country’s blueprint document to combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.
This follows a call by children during the Presidential GBVF Summit held last year, that the document should have Pillar 7, which will specifically look at violence against children.
During the summit, the children expressed their dissatisfaction about adults speaking on their behalf.
The NSP-GBVF currently has six pillars namely:
• Accountability, coordination and leadership;
• Prevention and Rebuilding;
• Justice, Safety and Protection;
• Response, Care Support and healing;
• Economic Power; and
• Research and Information.
During consultations, the children noted that the document is not child friendly, and does not include children and men.
The children believe that the “gender” in gender-based violence indirectly means women, and not children and boys.
They challenged the drafters to look into the document and count how many times children are mentioned.
“Maybe instead of a pillar, there should be a strategic document on how to deal with violence against children, seeing that adults have already drafted their own,” 17-year-old Rebecca Smith said.
The children also raised concern on the document being written only in English, noting that they do not think that their communities even know what “gender-based violence” is.
“The seventh pillar must all be about us - the children,” said Mondli Mncandi.
Patience Sibande (17) said she had to continue consulting her dictionary because of the difficulty in terminology and language used.
“We don’t understand it, and it excludes us as children from the rural areas,” she said.
The children also pointed out that while the drafters of the document may think that the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual (LGBTQIA) community is mentioned, the document glosses over their issues and it does not understand [what] children who are of a different sexuality go through.
“The document is sound but lacks inclusivity in the sense that it only mentions the LGBTQIA community towards the end, the document should include them throughout,” said 16-year-old Northern Cape Child Ambassador Shareez James.
The department started the consultations last week with the children from Gauteng and the Western Cape.
“The consultative sessions seek to ensure that children have an opportunity to express their views on the NSP-GBVF and how their issues can find expression in the document. The Children’s Act encourages the right for children to participate in all matters affecting them,” the department said.
The consultations will continue in the Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga on 23 September 2023.
Upon the conclusion of the consultations, the inputs from children will be submitted to the national steering committee responsible for the NSP-GBVF so that a decision can be made on whether to include Pillar 7, as asked by the children. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 09/17/2023 - 10:10
145 views
Elevate Your Hair Game with Ultimate Haircare Essentials
In the world of haircare, having the right products at your disposal can make all the difference. Explore a world of haircare excellence with a range of essentials that cater to every need. From nourishing shampoos and revitalising conditioners to specialised treatments and precision tools, you’re about to discover the keys to unlocking your best …
The Bed Guy Current Website Launched
After a few months of toiling the new site is finally up and running, well sort of:), it is 100% functional and operational but the need for constant tweaking, content additions and general site maintenance, I do not believe it could ever be complete in a fast changing online marketing world. What is complete and …
Command Economics Spoils National State Enterprises Bill
Dear Editor The ANC government’s penchant for centralization and control has spoiled the well intentioned National State Enterprises Bill (‘the Bill’). While the Bill seeks to enable private equity investment in ‘strategic’ state owned enterprises (SOEs) – a welcome development that aligns with long standing DA policy, the Bill’s provision for a new shareholding company …
How One Pretoria Teacher’s Decision Made A Profound Impact On 10 Learners
In a heart-warming testament to the transformative power of education and community, Life Skills Teacher, Mrs. Rose Nkwane from Retlilepele Primary School in Pretoria, has stepped forward to share an extraordinary story of how the Rama Good Breakfast Programme went far beyond teaching children about making better nutritional choices. Instead, it became a catalyst for …
World Patient Safety Day 2023
The Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC) is a statutory regulator of the healthcare sector established through the National Health Act of 2003. The Office joins the healthcare community worldwide in observing World Patient Safety Day on 17 September, a global public health day, observed under the theme: “Engaging patients for patient safety”. World Patient …
Overstrand Title Deed Delivery
Yesterday, in heavy rain Provincial Minister of Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers officiated the sod turn ceremony of the Stanford housing project. The Minister was joined by the Overstrand Executive Mayor Dr. Annelie Rabie and local councillors. The event signaled the commencement of construction work at the site. The Stanford housing project is earmarked to create 621 …
Call for sustainable reconciliation
Call for sustainable reconciliation
President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged citizens to fulfil Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader and Traditional Prime Minister of the Zulu nation, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi’s wishes for a sustainable and durable reconciliation.
“We carry the heavy weight of memories, and of many heartaches. But difficult as it may be right now, it is important that we fulfil the wishes he had for a sustainable and durable reconciliation, not only between the IFP and the ANC [African National Congress] but amongst all of us as the people of South Africa,” President Ramaphosa said on Saturday.
The President said this while delivering the eulogy at the funeral service of Buthelezi who passed away at the age of 95. The Prince had served as South Africa’s first Home Affairs Minister and was the founder and President Emeritus of the IFP.
Buthelezi and the country’s first democratically elected President Nelson Mandela were of the same mind. President Ramaphosa said the legacy they left behind was that of an “enduring dream for reconciliation, peace and progress for our great nation.”
In addition, uShenge was a leader who was willing to collaborate across the political divide.
“I have always admired his commitment to finding common ground amongst political leaders and parties, particularly between the Inkatha Freedom Party and the African National Congress. He was not a man who let burning issues slide, and he was unafraid to speak truth to power.
“And yet, the spirit of camaraderie, respect, empathy and understanding of the immense difficulties we face in rebuilding this country, defined all our interactions. He had respect for the authority of the state and defended the institutions of our democratic order.
“He was always there when we needed to consult with traditional leaders, encouraging people to go and vote in elections and supporting the national effort during the dark days of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said the President.
Prince Buthelezi was described as a defender of constitutional order who served as a proud Member of Parliament (MP).
While robust in his critique, Buthelezi was also genuine with his praise.
“I believe I can speak on behalf of the members of our Parliament when I say that we will miss his legendary eloquence, the care, diligence and attention to detail with which he performed his duties as an MP.
“As an elder statesman, he was dignity personified. Many will testify that they can still hear his voice permeating through the National Assembly eloquently exhorting all members of Parliament to uphold the principles and values of our constitution and democratic order, and to do so with discipline, decorum and respect for not just each other, but for the people of South Africa.”
The President, on behalf of the government and the people of South Africa, offered his deepest condolences to the Royal Household, the Buthelezi family and the leadership and membership of the IFP.
Wisdom
Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, said a giant tree had fallen.
“We’ve lost in Parliament his presence as a guiding elder [and] we will miss his wisdom and experience. He was our dad, irrespective of our political parties. For us, we must not forget his words of wisdom and the knowledge he shared with us. Many of us have learned something from him,” the Speaker said.
She said Buthelezi who was a straight forward man, honest and true to himself, played an important role in the structuring of the government of national unity.
The Speaker said Buthelezi’s name would appear on the list of people who made a difference in the history of the people of South Africa.
Former Presidents Thabo Mbeki, Jacob Zuma and Kgalema Motlanthe were among the dignitaries who attended the funeral.
Among those who addressed mourners at the funeral were former President of Nigeria, Dr Olusegun Obasanjo as well as IFP President Velenkosini Hlabisa. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sat, 09/16/2023 - 17:10
104 views
Prince Buthelezi described as a fearless leader
Prince Buthelezi described as a brave leader
Mourners have described the late Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader and Traditional Prime Minister of the Zulu nation, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, as a brave leader who stood for what he believed in.
This as the funeral service for Buthelezi, who passed away on 9 September 2023, at the age of 95, is currently underway at the Prince Mangosuthu Stadium in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal.
In a moving tribute, daughter of the late Prince, Princess Phumzile Buthelezi said, she never thought that she would one day bury the man she honoured and looked up to.
“I don’t think I will ever come across a kind man as my father. He taught us to love unconditionally.
“He taught us to be humble, and that humility is a sign of greatness. I hope that we as his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, will take away some of these good qualities that he instilled upon us,” she said on Saturday.
Prince Zuzifa Buthelezi said his father was the anchor of the family.
“It is difficult to express the depth of our pain. He was the anchor of our family [and] a giant amongst men. Our father was first and foremost a Christian [and] second, he was a husband father and thirdly, a patriot of this nation and beyond,” Buthelezi said.
He added that his father leaves behind a legacy of service to the Zulu nation and South Africa.
Meanwhile, IFP President Velenkosini Hlabisa said there’s tremendous pain following the loss of a “father, master, hero, mentor, our leader, and giant of Africa.”
Hlabisa said Buthelezi was the IFP’s “greatest treasure.”
“His integrity and immovable principles blessed us with a sense of stability. We always knew he would do the right thing and trusted his judgement, and it never failed.
“Buthelezi was able to look into the soul of ordinary people, he treated us as the leaders he believed we could be. [He] walked with us until we became those leaders. He showed us how to empower the vulnerable, he honoured women, and he believed in inclusive participation.”
Buthelezi founded the IFP in 1975.
In his address to mourners the former President of Nigeria, Dr Olusegun Obasanjo described Buthelezi as a hero and conqueror, who worked for the dignity of people.
“We are here to celebrate a life dedicated to making other peoples’ lives better. The death of Buthelezi is a great loss for the whole of Africa,” Obasanjo said.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the eulogy at the funeral.
President Ramaphosa has honoured Buthelezi by declaring his funeral a Special Official funeral category 1. The President is also expected to deliver the eulogy at the funeral.
Buthelezi served as South Africa’s first Home Affairs Minister.-SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sat, 09/16/2023 - 15:05
206 views
High police visibility ahead of Prince Buthelezi funeral
High police visibility ahead of Prince Buthelezi funeral
Police visibility has been heightened ahead of the funeral of the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal.
“Under the auspices of the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure [NATJOINTS], the South African Police Service has mobilised its resources to ensure the safety and security of all attendees,” said the NATJOINTS in a statement ahead of Saturday’s funeral.
“The NATJOINTS, the PROVJOINTS and all law enforcement agencies as well as various other government departments, are working together to guarantee that the funeral takes place in a safe and secure environment.”
Buthelezi passed away on 9 September 2023, at the age of 95.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has honoured Buthelezi by declaring his funeral a Special Official funeral category 1. The President is also expected to deliver the eulogy at the funeral.
“The NATJOINTS has thus far assessed the state of readiness and preparedness of all law enforcement agencies and is satisfied with its security plan which includes, route, venue and other elements.”
Mourners who will be attending the funeral service have been urged to conduct themselves in an orderly and responsible manner.
Attendees have also been encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement officers and exercise patience.
“Amabutho and those who will be dressed in traditional regalia are advised that traditional spears and shields will be allowed at the venue in line with the Zulu tradition and culture and for the sole purpose of honouring the late Prince.
“However, members of the public are warned that no firearms will be permitted at the stadium and no illegal discharge of firearms will be tolerated.”
The NATJOINTS also reminded the community of Ulundi is reminded that during the Special Official Category 1 funeral, there will be a 21 Gun Salute.
“This means that extremely loud bangs will be heard in the vicinity that may have an effect on some people. Special care should be given to people suffering ill-health, the elderly and children.
“Owners of pets or domestic animals are also advised that these loud bangs are likely to severely agitate animals and therefore special provision should be made for them for the duration of the funeral ceremony.”
It added that the Prince Mangosuthu Regional Stadium is a no drone zone area. –SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sat, 09/16/2023 - 08:37
174 views
Families displaced by World Cup occupy RDP houses in Durban
Fed up Isipingo transit camp residents say they are the rightful beneficiaries of houses in Kanku Road
Lottery official’s bank accounts frozen because of suspicious payments
R32-million paid by hundreds of grassroots organisations into accounts of KZN NLC official and his wife
Minister calls for improvement in scheme that identifies talent in sports
Minister calls for improvement in system that identifies talent in sports
While efforts have been made to transform the sports fraternity, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa has called for the development of a framework for the early identification and development of sporting talent.
“We still preside over a divided and ill-defined sports system characterised by fissures of our past. We have no universal access to facilities,” the Minister said on Thursday in Johannesburg.
Addressing the School Sport Indaba, he said by identifying talent early in school, the youth can have the needed support, mentorship, and resources to make it as a professional sportsman or sportswoman.
“This implies the government and other stakeholders making budget available to support identified initiatives. When looking internationally, it is common to see sports stars in their teenage years making their mark in the upper echelons of world sport,” Kodwa said.
According to the EPG 2018 report, the School Sport competition system is currently indicating that there are three streams from which talent is identified and competition is staged.
The Minister said this system is currently not integrated and has some challenges.
“The system shows that there is a government-run school sport system, then there is one model where former Model C schools and private schools compete, this is where most athletes are identified, and then there is a system which the Federations use to stage the tournaments and select national athletes.
“The athletes competing in the Government-run school sport system, come from more 23 000 public schools, majority of which are previously disadvantaged with poor or no sport facilities in place.
“These are the athletes whose system of competition is poorly organized and do not have proper coaching support. The second group are athletes, from the former Model-C schools, including private schools which are properly resourced, with world-class sport facilities and proper coaching support,” the Minister said.
The last group are athletes competing in Federations-staged tournaments, most of whom must have means to attend these events with the majority being from the former Model C schools.
Upon successful competition, these athletes are awarded the National colours and may be eligible for selection into academies and underage national teams.
“Dare I say, we as all stakeholders have failed learners and young people at school and out of school, and we need a theory of change? We need to clearly spell out how School Sport is supposed to work, why it will work, and the conditions required for its successful implementation,” the Minister said.
He said the School Sport Indaba is government’s intervention to revitalise school sport in South Africa.
The Minister noted the need for investment in the development of local expertise, through running of sports academies from foundation phase as well as the establishment of bilateral agreements with other governments for the creation of development opportunities for studies in the different sporting fields like Sports Science.
Kodwa also called for the creation of internship opportunities for graduates in schools and sports clubs.
“The National Sport and Recreation Plan (NSRP) contends that provision and maintenance of facilities forms the foundation of the entire sport and recreation system, therefore if facilities backlogs are not addressed it will be difficult to achieve transformation, sport development and increased participation objectives in sport.
“This situation or reality, therefore, requires all stakeholders to put all hands-on-deck for the future of sport in our country. Only when we all collaborate, will we be able to develop athletes that can successfully compete internationally, and reach our goal of being a winning nation!
“The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has already undertaken to address the challenge of talent identification by building multipurpose sports courts and outdoor gyms in rural and township communities, which have historically lacked these facilities,” the Minister said.
As part of the legacy projects of the Netball World Cup, multipurpose courts have been built in several communities around the country, including in Hammarsdale in KwaZulu-Natal.
Work is also being done to build netball courts in Cala Secondary School and Mchewula High School in Cala, Eastern Cape.
“There is much being done and much more to do in the country. As I have said, Government cannot do it alone. I would like to applaud all the commercial and community partners that support the work of Government to develop sport at grassroots level,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 09/15/2023 - 08:54
663 views
NCOP Delegation Concerned About Slack Pace of Completion of Bulk Water Treatment Plant Projects
The delegation of the North West's permanent delegates to the NCOP has unequivocally expressed its discontent regarding the slow pace of the completion of the construction and refurbishments of the bulk wastewater development infrastructure projects in the North West Province.
North West Province is one of the water scarce provinces in South Africa. The province has the potential to develop top-notch modernized bulk wastewater treatment plants if the provincial and the local government can all focus on turning the current poor state of affairs in many district and local municipalities.
The delegation received a briefing yesterday in Madebeng Local Municipality on the state of wastewater treatment plants in the province from the provincial government. The delegation heard that several bulk wastewater treatment plants in the province have reached their design life span and are failing to cope with the increased demand for water and sanitation services to the local communities.
The delegation heard that across the province, this has resulted to many bulk wastewater treatment plants to constantly experience sewer spillages, burst water pipes and leakages, malfunctioning pump stations and contaminated natural water sources among other things.
Throughout the week, the NCOP delegation received briefings on the province's identified bulk wastewater infrastructure development treatment plants under the theme of this year's NCOP Provincial Week: “Building viable provincial and municipal infrastructure for effective delivery of services to communities.”
The plants were the Groot Marico Water Waste Treatment Plant, Zeerust Water Waste Treatment Plant, Potchefstroom Bulk Water Supply and Moretele South Bulk Water Supply Project. Notwithstanding the challenges that include funding, stop and start of the contractors on site, shortage of machinery and construction, shortage of prerequisite expertise and experience, the delegation was provided with completion and hand over dates that will take place early in 2024.
Most of the contractors have reported that they have increased capacities regarding the required resources needed by the projects to accelerate the pace with which the projects move to complete them within the revised target dates.
The delegation stated its concerns regarding the commitments made for completion and handing over of the projects as some of them took more than ten years to be completed and so the sudden change and the guarantee to conclude these projects within the short space of time is raising eyebrows as it seems impossible to complete them within the targeted timelines, in particular for the bigger projects.
The delegation is also concerned about the low local employment figures in these infrastructure projects despite large sums of funds being invested by the province which include the outsourcing of the work to external contractors who do not transfer skills to the province and depriving the local small-to-medium enterprises. The delegation is particularly concerned about the growing trend of building new infrastructure projects without maintaining the existing ones.
With all these concerns, the delegation requested the provincial government to provide an updated report on the completion timelines for all the bulk wastewater projects. The report should include an update on employment and skills transfer plan for local SMMEs and individuals to be submitted to the NCOP on or before 31 October 2023.
‘'It is clear that there are problems in all the wastewater treatment plants and other related projects and we are unhappy with the stumbling blocks, fraud and corruption reports, and no consiquence management. Water is life and so we must all be concerned with the slow pace in completion of the projects. However, we are inspired by the commitment of the provincial government to overcome all these challenges.” Said the leader of the delegation, Mr China Dodovu.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Suspected armed robbers intercepted en route to commit crime
Suspected armed robbers intercepted en route to commit crime
Police in Johannesburg intercepted a group of suspects on Thursday travelling in three vehicles and believed to be on their way to commit armed robbery in the Orlando policing precinct, in Soweto.
The police, acting on information received from Crime Intelligence, arrested 11 suspects aged between 33 and 43 and seized three unlicensed firearms and ammunition as well as the three vehicles.
“The police held an observation on the suspects and decided to conduct a takedown before the suspects could commit the planned robbery along Mooki Street and the Soweto Highway,” the South African Police Service said in a statement.
According to the police, no shots were fired during the arrest.
“The suspects are expected to appear before the Orlando Magistrate’s Court soon, facing charges of possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition as well as conspiracy to commit an armed robbery,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 09/15/2023 - 09:11
762 views
South Africa, Germany sign agreement for vaccines production
South Africa, Germany sign agreement for vaccines production
The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and Germany's KfW Development Bank have concluded a financing agreement for the production of vaccines.
Under the agreement the German government, through KfW, will provide South Africa with €20 million for vaccine production over a period of five years.
The grant is exclusively for financing equipment for the development, production and certification of active pharmaceutical ingredients for vaccine production in South Africa.
Announcing the signing of the agreement, Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister Dr Blade Nzimande said the grant will be used, among other things, to support the mRNA technology transfer hub that South Africa is hosting for the World Health Organisation (WHO), to build vaccine manufacturing capacity in low and middle-income countries, “although it will go beyond this in providing support”.
“The objective of the technology transfer hub is to establish or enhance sustainable mRNA vaccine manufacturing capacity in regions with no or limited capacity, introduce new technologies in low and middle-income countries, promote regional research and development, strengthen regional bio manufacturing know-how and workforce development, and develop regulatory capabilities to support and accelerate regional approval and distribution of mRNA vaccines,” Nzimande said.
In response to the WHO decision made during the COVID-19 pandemic, Nzimande said the German government indicated its commitment to supporting vaccine production in South Africa.
The agreement, signed on 25 July 2023, makes the DSI the recipient of the KfW financial support on behalf of the South African government, and recognises the DSI and its Director-General, Dr Phil Mjwara, as the custodian and leader of the South African vaccine manufacturing strategy.
The Minister said the German decision to work with the department could be seen as a vote of confidence in its leadership's management of international funds.
"The German investment will build on the strategic investments by DSI and other partners, and KfW has agreed to work in alignment with the South African vaccine manufacturing strategy," Nzimande said, adding that the funding could support catalytic initiatives under this strategy.
The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) will be the project executing agency and will report to the DSI through a steering committee.
SAMRC President and CEO, Professor Glenda Gray said, the Council is delighted to be part of the program, which will provide critical support to establishing a vaccine manufacturing industry in Sub-Saharan Africa.
“In addition to complementing the activities of the mRNA hub program, this partnership will seek to provide critical support in filing gaps in the pre-clinical research domain,” Professor Gray said.
KfW will appoint an implementation consultant to support the KfW and to assist the SAMRC.
The consultant will be responsible for providing sector-specific support for project planning, management, monitoring and evaluation, among others.
Ambassador Andreas Peschke, from the German Embassy in Pretoria, reiterated the important role played by South Africa in strengthening continental vaccine manufacturing capacities, indicating that “the country is at the very forefront of continental efforts for local pharmaceutical and vaccine research and production.”
“[South Africa’s] world-class research institutions and a solid industry meet the prerequisites for independent vaccine research, development, and production,” Peschke said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/15/2023 - 10:49
613 views
Comfort at Your Fingertips: Embracing Smart Climate Control
The essence of a home lies in its ability to offer comfort and solace. In today’s technologically advanced age, this comfort has been elevated to new heights with the introduction of Smart Climate Control. No longer are homeowners at the mercy of the unpredictable whims of Mother Nature. With smart technology, you can now create …
Explore a World of Tech and Gaming Excellence
In the ever-evolving world of tech and gaming, enthusiasts have a wide array of choices when it comes to their favourite brands and products. From industry giants like Amazon, Google, Oculus, and Apple to niche specialists such as Bluetti, Ecoflow, and Gizzu, the options are limitless. Brands That Define Excellence Whether you’re seeking cutting-edge gadgets or gaming essentials, these brands have set …
Gungubele again avoids accountability, appoints cadre as Post Bank administrator
Dear Editor Yesterday, we learned that the Minister of Communications & Digital Technologies, Mondli Gungubele, invoked Section 71 of the Companies Act (No. 71 of 2008), removing the non-Executive Board of Directors of the South African Postbank. This after the Board resigned en masse, alleging a “hostile and oppressive” work relationship with the Minister. This …
SA eyes growing trade, exporting coal to Vietnam
SA eyes growing trade, exporting coal to Vietnam
South Africa is looking forward to broadening existing bilateral trade with Vietnam, says Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
“As South Africa we’d like to increase our exports to Vietnam because we believe there is big potential for growth,” said the Deputy President on Friday.
He was speaking at the President Guesthouse in Pretoria where he was hosting his Vietnamese counterpart, Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan on an Official Visit to South Africa.
He told the delegates that South Africa is looking into providing the Southeast Asian country with agricultural agro-processing products.
“Vietnam is also interested in acquiring coal from South Africa and we’ll be able to provide that.”
While bilateral relations have been characterised by “good progress”, the country’s second in charge is of the view that there is room for improvement in some areas.
“There will be areas, Vice President, where we will continue to ask for your support. But we want in particular to work with Vietnam on a number of peace initiatives that we’re engaged with.
“We’re aware that Vietnam supports our peace initiatives on the African continent,” he said.
The two nations are celebrating 30 years of diplomatic relations and the Official Visit aims to reinvigorate and strengthen friendship ties and solidarity as well as to consolidate the multifaceted partnership further.
“I would like to take this opportunity to extend my utmost gratitude and sincere appreciation to you for graciously accepting and honouring my humble invitation for an Official Visit.”
He also thanked Vietnam for supporting South Africa to be part of the sectoral dialogue partner of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ESEA), which was approved recently.
Vietnam is South Africa’s fifth-largest trading partner in the ASEAN region.
Meanwhile, the total bilateral trade between South Africa and Vietnam in 2022 was valued at R23.8 billion, with imports from Vietnam valued at R18.5 billion and exports to Vietnam valued at R5.2 billion.
The Deputy President told the Vice President that South Africa places great significance on their “enduring” and “robust” relationship with Vietnam.
“Our relations are based on strong historical ties, solidarity and the integral role Vietnam played in the fight against colonialism and racial discrimination.”
He also reflected on the bilateral relationship that has evolved and strengthened over the years, resulting in a diverse and multifaceted partnership characterised by enhanced collaboration in several domains.
He said this includes rapid progress in people-to-people links and strong government-to-government relations.
“As we move forward, it is our sincere hope that these networks, which have already demonstrated their immense potential, will not only maintain their current level of strength and stature but also experience significant and continuous growth in the years to come.”
Deputy President Mashatile said he was pleased that some of the leaders in government have also further consolidated their relations in the energy, mineral resources and higher education sectors.
“South Africa has prioritised new investments as a source of economic growth stimulation with a view to create jobs and reduce poverty and inequality by promoting investment, improving our competitiveness, and leveraging technology and innovation.
“Your presence here highlights the importance that both our countries attach to deepening and broadening our existing bilateral relations, especially in growing our trade and economic ties.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 09/15/2023 - 11:45
457 views
Safety First: The Evolution of the Smart Home Security Scheme
In an age where technology touches every facet of our lives, ensuring the safety of our homes has taken on a new dimension. Gone are the days when a simple lock and key sufficed. Today, with the advent of the smart home security system, homeowners can enjoy peace of mind like never before. Let’s explore …