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Hot-stepping Springbok speedster Cheslin Kolbe became the first backline player since 2013 to take the prestigious SA Rugby Men’s Player of the Year title at a glittering SA Rugby Awards ceremony at the International Convention Centre in Cape Town on Thursday evening, while Nadine Roos took home the top women’s award for a second time. …
Lesotho Highlands aquaculture project offers little in return for its licence
SIU says the farm was bought with stolen Lottery money
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an experience that many travelers talk about with fondness. It gives a chance to see wild animals in their natural home while walking through green forests. The experience is calm and full of moments that remind you how important it is to live close to nature. What Is Gorilla …
Access Bank PLC (www.AccessBankPLC.com) successfully hosted the inaugural Africa Trade Conference in Cape Town, South Africa, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and trade experts to drive solutions for accelerating intra-African trade and unlocking the continent's economic potential. The conference tackled critical challenges, including limited access to capital, market information gaps, trust deficits between trading partners, and the urgent need for modernised trade infrastructure.
Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director/CEO of Access Bank, delivered the opening remarks, setting the tone for discussions by highlighting the critical barriers hindering trade across Africa. He emphasised the urgent need for financial sector collaboration to facilitate seamless access to capital and foster a business environment where African enterprises can scale and compete globally.
“We must invest in the initiatives that ensure that we can bring businesses together, forge trust, and create the connections necessary for trade. In doing so, we must stamp out the narrative that 'Made in Africa' is inferior to any product made anywhere else in the world. We must buy Africa, be proud to wear Africa, and invest in Africa because that is what the continent needs to leap forward into the next generation,” Ogbonna stated.
With Africa's population projected to surge to 2.5 billion by 2050 from 1.2 billion, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) stands as the most significant free trade initiative since the formation of the World Trade Organisation. By fostering economic integration, AfCFTA has the potential to reshape trade dynamics across the continent, creating a unified market that enhances industrialisation, boosts employment, and strengthens Africa's global competitiveness. Recognising this transformative opportunity, H.E. Wamkele K. Mene, Secretary-General of AfCFTA, emphasised the urgency of fully implementing the agreement to unlock its immense benefits.
"The AfCFTA is not just a trade agreement; it is an instrument for Africa's industrialisation and economic sovereignty. It is a tool that will enable us to break down historic trade barriers and build an Africa that is self-sufficient, competitive, and prosperous. But for this to happen, we must commit to operationalising the agreement fully, ensuring that businesses, particularly SMEs and women-led enterprises, have access to the information, capital, and platforms they need to thrive,” Mene stated.
Also, Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President of Afreximbank, emphasised the importance of financing mechanisms that support African businesses in their expansion across borders. She reaffirmed Afreximbank's commitment to championing trade finance solutions and infrastructure investments that will unlock Africa's trade potential.
“At Afreximbank, we understand that trade finance is the lifeblood of economic development. Without it, businesses cannot scale, industries cannot innovate, and Africa cannot fully realise its trade potential. This is why we have developed instruments such as the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) to facilitate seamless transactions across borders, reducing reliance on foreign currencies and strengthening intra-African trade,” Awani remarked.
The conference featured an insightful testimonial from Nathalie Louat, Global Director at the IFC/World Bank Group, who pointed out the pivotal role of trade finance in enabling cross-border transactions and supporting financial inclusion. She underscored the long-standing partnership between IFC and Access Bank in fostering Africa's economic resilience.
Several high-level panel discussions explored strategies to overcome trade barriers and enhance market access through innovative solutions. Experts from leading institutions, including Deutsche Bank, Traydstream, OWP Partners, Fiducia International, and more, examined how infrastructure improvements, digital solutions, and policy harmonisation could drive economic growth and boost intra-African trade.
Dr. Marc Auboin from the World Trade Organization (WTO) shared key insights on how digital transformation is reshaping Africa's supply chain landscape, creating efficiency and unlocking new global market opportunities. Tanya Dos Santos-Ford from GIBS Business School also led a session on sustainable trade practices, emphasising the need for environmentally responsible economic growth strategies.
The event culminated in an awards ceremony recognising outstanding contributions to intra-African trade and economic transformation. Tradepass Commodities Limited (Ghana), Chemaf International FZE (DR Congo), and Harvest Group of Companies (Zambia) were honoured for their impact on SMEs and women-led trade enterprises. Bulkstream Limited (Kenya) and Electricidade de Moçambique (Mozambique) received awards for advancing intra-African trade, while Tennant Metals South Africa Pty Ltd was recognised as an Emerging Leader in Trade.
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) was awarded the Climate Finance Leadership Award, while Afreximbank received the Champion of Intra-African Trade Award. The African Development Bank (AfDB) and Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) were celebrated for their roles in economic transformation and infrastructure finance, respectively. The prestigious African Icon Award was presented to IHS Group, Dangote Industries Limited, and MTN Group Limited for their significant contributions to Africa's economic progress.
As the conference ended, Seyi Kumapayi, Executive Director, African Subsidiaries at Access Bank, reaffirmed the institution's commitment to supporting trade finance, fostering regional integration, and championing policies that create an enabling environment for businesses across Africa.
For inquiries:
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Access Bank PLC.
About Access Bank PLC:
Access Bank PLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Access Holdings PLC, is a leading full-service commercial bank operating through a network of more than 700 branches and service outlets spanning three continents, 24 countries and over 60 million customers. The Bank employs over 28,000 people in its operations in Africa and Europe, with representative offices in China, Lebanon, India, and the UAE.
Access Bank's parent company, Access Holdings PLC, has been listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange since 1998 (now Nigerian Exchange (NGX)). The Bank is a diversified financial institution which combines a strong retail customer franchise and digital platform with deep corporate banking expertise, proven risk management and capital management capabilities. The Bank services its various markets through three key business segments: Corporate and Investment Banking, Commercial Banking, and Retail Banking. The Bank has enjoyed what is Africa's most successful banking growth trajectory in the last 20 years, becoming one of the continent's largest retail banks.
As part of its continued growth strategy, Access Bank is focused on mainstreaming sustainable business practices into its operations. The Bank strives to deliver sustainable economic growth that is profitable, environmentally responsible, and socially relevant, helping customers to access more and achieve their dreams.
13 March 2025 – The South African Football Association (SAFA) has given an update on this season’s Hollywoodbets Super League and would like to notify all stakeholders that there will be a delay in the kick-off of some fixtures this month. This is due to the ongoing negotiations and approval process between the two parties, […]
The post SAFA gives update on Hollywoodbets Super League fixtures first appeared on SAFA.net.
Phalaborwa residents lay criminal charges against local municipalities to try to end their sewerage problems
China has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Africa's drive for enhanced energy access and industrialization, according to speakers at the Invest in African Energies Shanghai Forum. Leveraging China's expertise in technology-driven oil, gas and energy development, African firms can tap into a valuable partnership and greater investment by Chinese firms would further efforts to make energy poverty history in Africa.
With over 600 million people living without access to electricity and 900 million people without access to clean cooking solutions, Africa is seeking to leverage global partnerships to fast-track energy production and development. China stands to play a major part in facilitating this growth and the Shanghai Forum - co-organized by the African Energy Chamber (AEC) and the Shanghai Development Research Foundation - drew insight into strategic areas of collaboration.
“We want to see investments in African energy. The AEC will continue to support Chinese businesses that want to invest in China and give you the priority needed for you to invest in our beautiful continent,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.
For emerging African players seeking to unlock the full potential of their underdeveloped resources, Chinese partnerships have the ability to unlock new capital and technology to advance projects. Partnerships also serve to support mature players enhance their production capacity as Africa drives long-term energy development. Phuti Joyce Tsipa, Consul General, South African Consulate-General Shanghai, highlighted the value of enhanced cooperation with China.
“Together, China and South Africa can work towards building a high-quality international community that can work on a prosperous future, centered on balanced economic growth. Increased energy investment in Africa is at the heart of our future prosperity. We see China as a critical country to partner with, not only with South Africa, but the entire continent,” she said.
The Shanghai Forum sought to bolster China-Africa relations by facilitating market entry and expansion by Chinese firms in Africa. The Forum featured the participation of 100 companies, including consulates, private firms, investors and policymakers, with presentations centering on opportunities for Chinese firms in Africa, strategies for advancing African industrialization and electrification and the impact Chinese technology will have on the African energy market.
Dr. Bieni Da, Chief Representative for China at the AEC and Yide Qiao, Vice Chairman and Secretary General, Shanghai Development and Research Foundation, underscored the need to facilitate energy ties between China and Africa. According to Qiao, “China has strong technology in green energy and cooperation can be extended to Africa.”
Chinese firms are leading in terms of innovative, low-carbon energy solutions. With a national goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2060, China is supporting domestic companies through policy improvements, capital and research and development. Africa stands to leverage this expertise to advance its own development agenda. This expertise extends to the oil and gas sectors and Chinese companies have begun to expand their footprint in Africa.
Dr. Wang Zengye, Deputy Director-General of Policy Research Office, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) provided an overview of the projects CNPC has led in Africa. He said: “Bilateral relationships between China and Africa is already quite strong and high-level cooperation has been established. This ensures that investment can flow.”
China has also effectively established industrial hubs which support the economy by centralizing manufacturing. Bi Mingze, CFO of Yunan County Chuangxing Industrial Investment Group, said that the company has established an industrial hub in Yunan in China. This hub can be replicated across Africa.
The Shanghai Forum served as a prelude to the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference, slated for September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town. As the largest event of its kind in Africa, AEW: Invest in African Energies fosters collaboration and investment in Africa. For Chinese companies, the event offers a strategic opportunity to gain insight into African projects while strengthening ties with African firms.
“If you work in any energy field, we are able to help you connect with key stakeholders. We support policy that enhances local content and infrastructure development. It is time to invest in Africa,” stated Johnson Kayode Obembe, Sales Director, African Energy Week.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.
Johannesburg, South Africa – Flies are more than just a nuisance; they pose significant health risks by spreading bacteria and contaminating food sources. For homeowners and businesses seeking a safe and environmentally friendly way to combat fly infestations, Eco Smart Pest Control offers effective, sustainable solutions that eliminate pests without compromising health or environmental integrity. …
The DA’s fight against the ANC VAT budget continues! The DA unpacks the impact of the proposed disastrous budget, and the next steps in our fight against it. A VAT hike will leave more people in poverty and misery, this is why the DA stands for: More growth, less tax. More growth, less debt. More …
NSFAS finalises allowance payments for 2025 academic year
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has announced that the allowance payments for the 2025 academic year have been finalised and are ready for implementation.
This comes after thorough discussions, and consultation with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and the Post School Education and Training (PSET) sector.
The scheme outlined the approved allowance caps allocated for universities' catered and non-catered residences within metropolitan areas. This includes universities catered and non-catered residences for disability students within the metropolitan areas, as well as as university disability transport and distance learning.
The university students in catered residences within metropolitan areas will receive R65 993 for accommodation and R5 678 for new books, while students in non-catered residence within metro areas will receive R56 633 for accommodation and R5 678 for new books.
The students from both catered and non-catered residences within the metro will also receive R3 167 for personal care, including a living allowance of R17 160.
Students with disabilities were allocated additional support, including R52 000 for human support and R54 080 for assistive devices.
“Should institutions see a need to deviate from the allowance caps, they must first obtain written approval from NSFAS before submitting any allowances above the provided caps.
NSFAS released the second upfront payment to universities during the week of 3 March 2025, allowing institutions to disburse March allowances to students by Friday, 7 March 2025,” NSFAS said.
Payment to TVET colleges
NSFAS has also released payment for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students, which covers an accommodation allowance of R69 633 for catered students with disabilities in metro areas, and R42 640 for non-catered students in non-metro areas.
Students in catered residences within metropolitan areas will receive R65 993, while students in non-catered residences within metro areas will receive R56 633.
The scheme said the payment released on 7 March 2025, to cover two months’ worth of allowances, is based on valid registrations received.
It noted that at the commencement of the business day on 4 March 2025, 18 TVET colleges had uploaded registrations.
“As a result, NSFAS made the initial payments to these 18 TVET colleges’ students. NSFAS will closely monitor the uploading of registration data by colleges and ensure that another second payment run is prepared for the payment on Friday, 14 March 2025.
“The registration upload cut off for the second payment was Monday, 10 March 2025. This payment will ensure that all students whose valid registration data, which was uploaded since the initial cut-off date receive allowances within the month of March 2025,” NSFAS explained.
Submission of appeal documents
Meanwhile, NSFAS has called on students who had lodged funding appeals for the 2025 academic year, to urgently submit the required documents.
“A student must submit an appeal within 30 days of receiving their application results. Submission of these documents will enable NSFAS to finalise funding decisions timeously,” the scheme said.
Following confirmation of the 2025 allowance caps, NSFAS said its portal is ready to receive valid registration data and encouraged the institutions to submit their registration data to avoid delayed payment of allowances. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 03/13/2025 - 12:43
926 views
Cabinet condemns Israel's blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza
Cabinet has condemned Israel's refusal to allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, and its closure of border crossings.
This at a time when " the people of Gaza are experiencing immeasurable suffering" and urgently need food, shelter, and medical supplies.
Speaking during a post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said this action is a continuation of Israel’s “use of starvation as a weapon of war as part of the ongoing campaign of what the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled to be plausible genocide against the Palestinian people.”
“Cabinet reiterates our nation’s call on the international community to hold Israel accountable and ensure the safe, continuous, and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to all areas of the Gaza Strip,” Ntshavheni said at the briefing held in Cape Town.
Earlier this month, South Africa condemned the refusal of Israel to allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip.
READ | SA condemns Israel’s refusal to allow aid into Gaza
In a statement issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, the department said: “South Africa concurs with Qatar, one of the guarantors of the ceasefire agreement, that halting the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip is a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement, international humanitarian law, and the Fourth Geneva Convention.”
In December 2023, South Africa filed a case against Israel at the ICJ, saying it is committing acts of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.
The ICJ issued a provisional ruling in January 2024, ordering Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza and take measures to prevent genocide. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 03/13/2025 - 13:22
474 views
Government determined to tackle economic challenges
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has stressed the urgent need to tackle the nation’s pressing challenges in light of sluggish economic growth and has called for a collective effort to improve the quality of life for all citizens.
“As we embark on this journey, we must have a full appreciation that the first 15 years of democracy were characterised by high economic growth. However, the last decade and a half has been characterised by stagnant growth,” he said on Thursday.
According to the Deputy President, the stagnant growth of the past decade and a half has led to calls for immediate action to initiate structural reforms that would bolster gross domestic product (GDP) growth and create job opportunities.
“I must state from the onset that the responsibility of guiding South Africa to greater prosperity is not solely on the shoulders of the government. It is a shared responsibility among the business community, NGOs [non-governmental organisations], civil society and all those who aspire to see our country prosper.”
The Deputy President was speaking at the 7th BizNews Conference (BNC#7) at the Hermanus Municipal Auditorium in the Western Cape.
The BizNews Conference is an annual event focused on investment, business, and political issues.
The country’s second-in-command opened the dialogue with a reflection on South Africa’s democratic journey.
Mashatile underscored the issues plaguing the nation, including poverty, inequality, unemployment and corruption, which he believes threaten the fabric of South Africa’s democracy.
“They keep us, and if I may say so myself, awake at night because if we do not swiftly overcome these systemic economic issues, we shall experience perpetual unrest.”
Commitment to cooperation
He said the recent Budget Speech by the Minister of Finance highlights a step toward addressing these dilemmas.
According to the Deputy President, yesterday’s Budget was the product of a consensus reached within the Government of National Unity (GNU) following last month’s postponement.
“As I have indicated on several occasions, having a GNU Cabinet does not imply that we will agree on everything. There will be times when we do not view things the same way, but this does not spell the end of the GNU.”
However, Mashatile stressed GNU’s commitment to prioritising the needs of its citizens.
He also took the time to reinforce the credibility of the GNU amid scepticism about its longevity and effectiveness.
“Several coalition governments around the world have collapsed as a consequence of misunderstandings about the country’s Budget; this is but a reflection of democracy at work.”
The Deputy President assured attendees that the focus was on inclusive growth, job creation and addressing the high cost of living, while striving to build a capable and ethical State.
“We must do this to find solutions to the challenges that confront our nation,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 03/13/2025 - 13:30
273 views
Proper trust account management is not just a legal requirement—it is the backbone of a well-run legal practice. According to the Legal Practice Council, maintaining compliant trust accounts is essential for practice sustainability and operational integrity. However, many legal professionals struggle with the complexities of trust accounting, monthly reconciliations, and audit preparation. Understanding the Fundamentals …
13 March 2025 – Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has named his final squad for this month’s FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin. Broos’ charges resume the World Cup qualifiers when they host their COSAFA neighbours at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Limpopo, on Human Rights Day, Friday, 21 March 2025. They then […]
The post Broos announces final Bafana squad for Lesotho, Benin FIFA World Cup clashes first appeared on SAFA.net.
SA focuses on improving diplomatic relations with United States
Deputy President Paul Mashatile says South Africa is working on stabilising relations with the United States of America (USA), given the long-standing ties between the two nations.
Addressing the 7th BizNews Conference (BNC#7) at the Hermanus Municipal Auditorium in the Western Cape, on Thursday, the Deputy President said this partnership is also significant to South Africa's economic development goals.
The BizNews Conference is an annual event focused on investment, business and political issues.
The Deputy President emphasised the need for collaborative efforts, in light of recent cuts to key health funding programmes, such as the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
PEPFAR was established by former President George W Bush in 2003 and continued under various administrations.
“The withdrawal of PEPFAR funding highlights the urgent need for South Africa to further strengthen its own interventions to reach the most vulnerable and access health services and support," Mashatile said.
He said the opportunity showed the importance of bolstering the country's own healthcare interventions and ensuring the delivery of health services without heavy reliance on external assistance.
"In this regard, we have been investing heavily in healthcare reform and responding to the dual epidemics of HIV/AIDS and TB. The Department of Health has put measures in place to ensure that patients receiving TB and HIV treatment are not affected and do not default," said the Deputy President.
Mashatile encouraged stakeholders to unite and support government in promoting South Africa's interests in the United States, including through mechanisms such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
"The loss of AGOA benefits would have the most devastating effect on South African farmers and agriculture workers. AGOA is presently providing support to South Africa's agriculture and manufacturing sectors, which is expected to generate around $21 billion in trade with the United States.
“Therefore, our position is that South Africa should maintain strong bilateral relations with the United States. Most importantly, as a country, we are committed to improving mutually beneficial trade, political, and diplomatic relations with the United States,” he said.
Diversifying export markets and growing the economy
The country’s second-in-command stated that South Africa should push for diversified export markets, citing ongoing engagement with global powers such as China, Russia, India, and various European countries.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is currently co-chairing the EU-South Africa Summit, which aims to deepen relations with the European Union (EU) across several domains, including trade, security, and sustainable development.
In addition, Mashatile highlighted the importance of intra-African trade and financial cooperation through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
According to the Deputy President, the AfCFTA is a crucial step toward reducing dependency on volatile global markets.
Mashatile believes that South Africa’s wealth of natural resources, including significant agricultural potential, is positioned as an attraction for investment.
He said government is committed to removing blockages to economic growth, lifting economic expansion to above 3% in the medium-term, and creating a cycle of investment, growth and jobs.
He outlined government’s plans to focus on improving productivity and innovating skills development through the National Digital and Future Skills Strategy as part of a broader vision for a knowledge-based economy.
Furthermore, he said the newly approved Reconceptualised Human Resource Development Strategy outlines priority goals aimed at enhancing early education outcomes, increasing youth employability, and ensuring that higher education aligns with market demands.
FATF grey list
The Deputy President said South Africa is making steady progress in efforts to be removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.
"Through new legislation, we have strengthened our ability to prevent money laundering and fraud, and secure South Africa’s removal from the grey list of the Financial Action Task Force."
He said the country has addressed 20 of the 22 action items relating to combating money laundering and terrorist financing.
“These improvements are essential not only to remove ourselves from the grey list but also to strengthen the battle against crime and corruption, which is crucial for the betterment of all South Africans.
“We will continue to resolve both remaining action items by June, towards our removal from the grey list by October 2025,” he said.
Moreover, the Deputy President committed that South Africa will use its Group of 20 (G20) Presidency to place Africa’s development at the top of the agenda. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 03/13/2025 - 13:52
339 views
Centurion homeowners no longer need to worry about unexpected washing machine breakdowns. A faulty washing machine can disrupt daily routines, leaving piles of unwashed laundry and unnecessary stress. Whether it’s a machine that won’t spin, a leak causing water damage, or an appliance that refuses to start, Appliance Repairs Centre provides professional and reliable washing …
Donald Trump’s bizarre Afrikaner refugee offer, the EFF’s imploding leadership, the MK party already looting from their own coffers and corruption in every sector, South Africa is in a state! And we’re breaking it all down!
Join host KG Mokgadi for a special episode shot in front of a LIVE studio audience. KG is joined by co-host Onke Ngcuka, Daily Maverick’s Suné Payne and Letlhogonolo Letshele from Open Secrets. Together they unpack the corruption in the private sector, government, and even rural municipalities. And, of course, a familiar face returns, played by the hilarious Keeno-Lee Hector.
Expect sharp analysis, candid conversation, and a good dose of humor as we examine the real state of the nation!
🎯 Subscribe now for more laughs and insights! http://www.bit.ly/getaweh
00:00 Introduction
01:14 Opening Monologue
08:38 Donald Trump’s attacks on South Africa
13:39 Elon Musk & State Capture
16:26 SKETCH: Looting Masterclass
18:49 State Capture recap & the way forward
25:35 Is the GNU tackling corruption?
29:40 SKETCH: Private Sector Corruption
33:37 SKETCH: Whistleblowers
37:46: SKETCH: Kakkest Dorpie Van Die Jaar
42:33 Audience Questions
45:21 Comedic PSA: Afrikaners Beware – America’s Not What You Think!
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Cabinet welcomes Bushiri extradition ruling
Cabinet has welcomed the ruling by the Republic of Malawi’s Chief Resident Magistrate Court that Shepherd and Mary Bushiri be extradited to South Africa to stand trial on multiple criminal charges.
The charges include rape, contravening the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act, the Banking Act, Immigration Act, as well as violating their bail conditions.
Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said this decision underscores the principle that no one is above the law.
“This ruling shows that no one can run away from the rule of law, and also reaffirms the judicial independence, international cooperation, and mutual trust between the South African and Malawian legal institutions.
“We are aware that that the Bushiris have indicated their intention to appeal. However, we are confident that we have a strong case against them,” Ntshavheni said at a post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday.
The Minister said South Africa stands ready to collaborate with the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) to coordinate the transfer arrangements and logistics to ensure that they are brought to South Africa to stand trial.
Shepherd Bushiri, a self-proclaimed prophet, and his wife, Mary, were arrested in South Africa in 2019 on charges of fraud and money laundering. In October 2020, they faced additional charges, including violations of immigration laws.
While out on bail, the couple fled to Malawi in November 2020, leading South African authorities to initiate extradition proceedings. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 03/13/2025 - 14:09
383 views
Africa Tech Festival (www.AfricaTechFestival.com), the continent's leading platform for technology innovation and connectivity, is proud to announce the esteemed members of its Leadership Council for 2025. Comprising influential leaders from across Africa's technology, business, and investment sectors, the Leadership Council will play a pivotal role in shaping the festival's agenda, ensuring it remains at the forefront of industry trends, policy discussions, and digital transformation.
The Africa Tech Festival 2025 Leadership Council comprises of:
Bringing together a wealth of expertise, the Leadership Council will provide strategic guidance to ensure Africa Tech Festival continues to address the most pressing issues and opportunities within Africa's digital economy. Their insights will help drive meaningful discussions on connectivity, AI, fintech, cybersecurity, cloud, and the future of digital infrastructure across Africa.
“Africa Tech Festival serves as a platform for connection, collaboration, and innovation across the continent,” said James Williams, Event Director of Africa Tech Festival. “With the guidance of our Leadership Council, we will continue to curate an event that drives impactful conversations, supports industry growth, and fosters Africa's position as a global technology leader.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Tech Festival.
Media Contact:
Tori Wilson
Senior Marketing Manager
tori.wilson@informa.com
About Africa Tech Festival 2025:
Now in its 28th edition, Africa Tech Festival 2025 will take place from 11 to 13 November 2025 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), bringing together over 15,000 technology leaders, policymakers, investors, startups, and visionaries. The festival encompasses four anchor events:
With over 500 speakers, 300 exhibitors, and multiple networking opportunities, Africa Tech Festival remains the largest and most influential tech event on the continent.
For more information about Africa Tech Festival 2025 and its Leadership Council, visit www.AfricaTechFestival.com.
Afrika Tikkun brings issues of access and collaboration to the fore on the back of the 2025/26 Budget Speech Johannesburg, 13 March 2025: Afrika Tikkun remains deeply invested in how the national budget addresses the critical challenges facing South Africa’s youth and marginalised communities. In alignment with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent State of the Nation …
Critical services in some high-burden districts have collapsed
Department prepares for Pongolapoort Dam water release
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is preparing for the imminent release of water from the Pongolapoort Dam in Jozini, northern KwaZulu-Natal.
This follows weeks of heavy rainfall that have caused several dams in the region to exceed their capacity.
The department issued a statement this week, noting that the Pongolapoort Dam has reached 90.8% of its capacity due to continuous inflows, prompting it to implement the standard operating rule of the dam safety protocol.
“This decision [to release the water] underscores the critical importance to maintain dam safety and prevent potential risks associated with overcapacity. Water release is a necessary measure to ensure the structural integrity of the dam and safeguard surrounding communities from the dangers of uncontrolled spillage or dam failure,” the department said.
If the current inflows persist, the department said it may be required to activate releases by Friday, 14 March 2025.
It also noted that the inflows are unpredictable and may change at any time.
“For instance, current inflows may significantly increase, requiring the department to release water before the anticipated time. On the contrary, inflows may significantly reduce, necessitating a halt to the release.
“Currently, the inflow slightly exceeds the outflow, and the dam level continues to rise steadily. It is for this reason that communities are notified of the imminent release to ensure preparedness and safety,” the department said.
Communities in and around Jozini, and Makhathini Flats (Welcome, Hlazane, Mboza, KwaShukela, Mzinyeni, Skhemelele, KwaLulwane, Bhekabantu, Mamfene, Shemula, Hlokohloko, Madonela, and Ndumo), have been urged to exercise extreme caution during and after the water release.
Additionally, the department is continuously engaging with the Lower Pongola Water User Association, representing water users and communities in the riparian of the river, to keep stakeholders informed on the department’s emergency preparedness plan.
The increased flow into the Pongola River will raise water levels, potentially affecting low-lying areas, floodplains, low-level bridges, and agricultural activities.
Residents downstream have been advised to remain vigilant, as the release may lead to localised flooding.
The department emphasised that the Pongolapoort Dam remains a vital infrastructure for water management and flood control.
The department will continue to monitor the dam’s performance, including inflow rates, to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the dam.
It emphasised that the proactive approach highlights the importance of balancing water storage with safety, ensuring the well-being of communities and the environment, while maintaining the dam’s functionality.
“The DWS follows operating rules and procedures when releasing water from dams necessitated by floods as a result of heavy rains and will gradually implement the releases in line with the established flood management protocols in coordination with the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC), Provincial Disaster Management Centres (PDMCs), and affected local municipalities.” – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 03/13/2025 - 14:43
154 views
The Western Cape Government has commended law enforcement officers for taking swift action after a viral video exposed a minibus transporting scholars in a trailer in Wellington earlier this week. Following an investigation, the driver responsible was arrested for reckless and negligent driving, and endangering the lives of young passengers. Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac …