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SAFA conveys condolences on the passing of NFA Secretary General Siyauya – SAFA.net

Location: News, Sport

4 March 2025 – The South African Football Association (SAFA) is saddened by the passing of Namibia Football Association (NFA) Secretary General Charles Siyauya. Siyauya, who was appointed to the position in April 2024, reportedly passed away at a hospital in Windhoek, Namibia, on Monday, 3 March 2025. The NFA confirmed his passing on Tuesday […]

The post SAFA conveys condolences on the passing of NFA Secretary General Siyauya first appeared on SAFA.net.

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Ruberto Scholtz, Sindiso Nyoni, Rowan Sakarombe and Botswana Metalheads From Southern Africa Join KFC Streetwise to Celebrate the Power of Influence and Inspiration

Location: News
KFC Africa

Cultural Creators from three of South Africa's neighbouring countries feature in KFC Streetwise's (https://Global.KFC.com/) new Original Feeds Original campaign, which celebrates the inspiration that feeds creativity.

Windhoek fashion designer Ruberto Scholtz, Harare visual director Rowan Sakarombe and the Botswana Metalheads feature in the campaign's epic TV commercial (https://apo-opa.co/43najWe), which stars Khuli Chana, Blxckie and 25K. The commercial's soundtrack (https://apo-opa.co/4irtnad) is a new song, the Originals Anthem, written and recorded by the rappers.

“Just as KFC's Streetwise brand takes its inspiration from the iconic taste of KFC's Original Recipe – while adding bucketloads of value for a new generation – the film depicts Khuli, Blxckie and 25K inspiring each other and those who will follow them,” says KFC Africa Chief Marketing Officer Grant Macpherson. “The Cultural Creators are part of the same powerful narrative.”

Scholtz, who made the suits Blxckie and 25K wear in the photoshoot scene in the TV commercial, is inspired by collaborations. “If you see someone who can do something well, why not work with them?” he says.

Sakarombe appears in the film shooting the Originals Anthem music video in the street with Khuli Chana, Blxckie and 25K. He says he's inspired by the “raw experiences of life around me” and the vibrant energy, constant motion and diverse cultures of cities.

The Originals Anthem inspires the Botswana Metalheads – whose music often contains local influences and whose style reflects cowboy culture - to infuse their originality and give it a heavy metal angle.

The campaign, which launches on 04 March 2025 across SADC regions, also features a packaging collaboration between KFC Streetwise and Cultural Creator Sindiso Nyoni, a Bulawayo-born illustrator who has built a stellar career after being inspired by an “original” – his high school art teacher, a retired graphic designer.

Making a mark

Macpherson says it's a time when young people are hungry to share their unique signature with the world. “Who better to feed their hunger than the originals who came before them?” he says.

“We want the Originals Anthem and all the activity around it to inspire all the young Africans trying to make their mark through their creativity and individuality.”

Khuli Chana says that as one of the legends of South African hip-hop, he's passionate about inspiring new artists. “The reason I started Maftown Heights in 2009 was to help rappers from Mahikeng find their footing in Joburg with a sound and language that wasn't mainstream at the time,” he says. “It led to great things and it's still giving new artists a platform. I love inspiring musicians to find their original sound.”

Blxckie says his career and development has been built on collaborations, and every one of them keeps him original. “Musicians lift each other up,” he says. “They support each other and make each other better at what they do.”

25K was introduced to rap by artists such as DJ Mojava, Ghetto Squad, and old school hip-hop groups Dead Prez and Outcast, and became an original by rapping in S'Pitori, a mixed language spoken in Pretoria.

“I want to be remembered for that and I want to inspire kids,” he says. “When I'm no longer here, I want to feel like I left something that will make it easier for another kid to come out of Pretoria.”

Other Cultural Creators who appear in the Original Feeds Original TV commercial include Kind Kid toymaker Sanele Qwabe, “Nail Pimp” Nailed Ntswembu, the Island Gals skateboarders and custom car pimper Ofentse Mphatsoe.

Passing the torch

The commercial begins with Khuli starting to write the Originals Anthem and ends with him as the OG, welcoming Blxckie and 25K on stage and handing the mic to them.

“It's the story of my life and it's the story of KFC Streetwise,” says Khuli. “Passing the mic is like passing the torch, and that's how Original Feeds Original.”

Director Sam Coleman says the 90-second video portrays the endless cycle of inspiration, in which each creator is galvanised by the ones before and motivates those who follow. “It's an explosive mix of visual eye candy, entertainment, musical reward, style, and unique brand integration that instantly hijacks your attention and eyeballs,” he says. “Everything about it is engaging, surprising and fresh.”

And there's an extra twist to the campaign, says Macpherson. “Every time someone streams the Originals Anthem, the money it earns will go to KFC Add Hope. It will be used to feed malnourished children throughout South Africa.

“Among the kids who benefit from Add Hope are the next generation of Khulis, Blxckies and 25Ks and the Cultural Creators of the future. So, anyone who listens to the anthem will be helping them on their way.”

The Originals Anthem is available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify (https://apo-opa.co/4irtnad), YouTube Music (https://apo-opa.co/4if2LsS) and Apple Music (https://apo-opa.co/43srwgO).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KFC Africa.

30” TVC available here (https://apo-opa.co/4h9AfYu)
90” TVC available here (https://apo-opa.co/43najWe)

KFC socials:
KFC Eswatini
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4ilOwlT
Instagram: @ kfc_eswatini - https://apo-opa.co/43mH322

About KFC Africa:
KFC has been in South Africa for over 53 years and has more than 1,300 stores across the country. The first KFC restaurant in South Africa opened in 1971 in Orange Grove, Johannesburg. KFC is the leading quick-service restaurant brand in South Africa with just under a third of market share, according to Brand Image Tracker. KFC serves more than 20 million customers a month and we work hard to ensure that no matter which of our restaurants they walk into, they will get that distinctive KFC flavour and have a great experience. KFC's Original Recipe® Chicken was first made by Colonel Harland Sanders in 1940 when he perfected his secret recipe of 11 herbs and spices at his restaurant in Kentucky. Today, KFC is the world's most popular chicken restaurant, still preparing our chicken with the Colonel's secret recipe to his exact standards. Every KFC restaurant follows the same global processes and procedures to ensure that our customers get great-tasting food, every time. KFC Streetwise is a registered trademark.

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Read moreRuberto Scholtz, Sindiso Nyoni, Rowan Sakarombe and Botswana Metalheads From Southern Africa Join KFC Streetwise to Celebrate the Power of Influence and Inspiration

What COVID Taught Us, 5 Years On – 7 Good Habits We Should Keep!

Location: MyPR

It’s hard to believe it’s been five years since President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered South Africa’s first ‘Family Meeting,’ announcing a hard lockdown starting 27 March 2020. Five years since the country doom-scrolled Covid-19 updates, debated the ban on cooked chicken, and baked more bread than anyone ever thought possible. While many of those moments are …

Read moreWhat COVID Taught Us, 5 Years On – 7 Good Habits We Should Keep!

Backing Local Entrepreneurs

Location: Business

Standard Bank will be one of the sponsors of the 13th annual Buy Local Summit and Expo, hosted by Proudly South African, to be held at the Sandton Convention Centre on 17 and 18 March 2025. As one of the most significant platforms for championing locally manufactured goods, the event also serves as a crucial …

Read moreBacking Local Entrepreneurs

NHLS’s Deadly Anti-venom Shortage

Location: News

Dear Editor The DA will question the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) in the Portfolio Committee on Health tomorrow about the ongoing anti-venom crisis that has reportedly led to deaths. We will demand clarity on how much anti-venom has been produced and distributed since 2023. The NHLS must also account for reported shortages in hospitals …

Read moreNHLS’s Deadly Anti-venom Shortage

Sileku Urges Safer Driving Following Road Fatalities

Location: News

The Western Cape Government is saddened following multiple road fatalities yesterday morning, Monday, 3 March. The incidents include one fatal collision on the R61 at Rooidam, two road incidents in Beaufort West, resulting in one death and multiple injuries, and a devastating crash on the N2 near Heidelberg that claimed seven lives. Western Cape Minister …

Read moreSileku Urges Safer Driving Following Road Fatalities

KFC Celebrates Inspirational African Women Accelerating Action Towards Equality

Location: Business
KFC Africa

Progress in closing the gender gap in South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa has almost halted, leaving millions of women at a disadvantage to men. But female role models across the continent are refusing to admit defeat, dedicating themselves to accelerating progress towards gender equality.

To mark International Women's Day on 8 March and honour its theme of “Accelerate Action”, KFC Africa has collected the stories of dozens of women who are taking bold steps to advance equality on the continent by educating, empowering and supporting women to achieve more, together, faster. 

KFC Africa's list contains the names of 54 women – one for each year the company has been in Africa – and follows its successful International Women's Day campaign in 2024 which introduced an inaugural list (https://apo-opa.co/4h5xiID) of 53 “female firsts”. Each of those women had overcome educational, social and financial obstacles to achieve something no woman in their country had done before. 

The 2025 list (https://apo-opa.co/4h5xiID), drawn from each of the 22 Sub-Saharan Africa countries where KFC has restaurants, also has its share of female firsts – people such as Dior Fall Sow, Senegal's first female prosecutor; Nelly Mutti, the Zambian parliament's first female speaker; and Adelaide Retselisitsoe Matlanyane, the first woman to lead Lesotho's central bank.  

The list is dominated, however, by younger women who are breaking the mould – particularly in the technology sector – and showing they can do anything they set their mind to, regardless of age or gender. 

They include the likes of Christine Ogo, a Cote d'Ivoire physicist who has encouraged thousands of schoolgirls to pursue science, technology, engineering and mathematics; Rachel Sibande, who set up Malawi's first technology incubator for emerging entrepreneurs and has gone on to teach coding to 92,000 women and children; and Regina Honu, whose Tech Needs Girls movement in Ghana has trained more than 20,000 women and girls to code. 

Gender gap 

“It's a powerful list that gives us hope after  the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report (https://apo-opa.co/4i2QKXB) in 2024 showed that progress seems to have ground to a halt,” says Akhona Qengqe, General Manager of KFC Africa. 

The report showed that 68.4% of Sub-Saharan Africa's gender gap had been closed, only marginally higher than 68.2% in 2023 (https://apo-opa.co/3QEYGm5). South Africa, while being Africa's highest scorer and ranking 18th out of 146 nations, went backwards, from 78.7% in 2023 to 78.5% a year later. 

“The report says that at the current rate of progress, it will be 2158 until the world reaches full gender parity,” says Qengqe. “That's why we need to accelerate action, particularly in Africa, and why the efforts of the women on the KFC list are worthy of recognition and support.” 

In her seven years at KFC – she was as director of Africa franchise development, director of transformation and diversity and chief people officer before taking over as general manager in April 2023 – Qengqe has prioritised female empowerment. 

Her initiatives include spearheading KFC Add Hope, a women-led programme that serves free meals to tens of thousands of children at more than 3,000 feeding centres across South Africa. 

In 2021, she launched the Women on the Move leadership development programme, which prepares 22 women at KFC for future leadership positions every year, cultivating a pipeline of talent. Within two years, the number of female leaders in the business grew by 14%. 

Transforming franchising 

Last November she turned her attention to the wider quick service restaurant sector, launching Women in Franchising Africa (Wifa), the first network for current and aspiring female franchisees and franchisors across the continent. 

“To say I am passionate about the inclusion of women in growing our economies is an understatement. It is in fact one of my life's purposes,” she says. “My partners in Wifa intend to transform the participation of women in the franchising sector across African economies. 

“We want to educate women on how to run successful franchise businesses, provide networking opportunities for like-minded women, transform the sector by making funding accessible to women, and create mentorship opportunities for all the women in the network.” 

KFC Africa Chief People Officer Nolo Thobejane says “Accelerate Action” is a call to look at what has a positive impact on women's advancement and replicate it. 

“This is a journey we need to embark on together as we learn from each other. I cannot stress enough the importance of forming alliances and partnerships to amplify impact. By working together, organisations and individuals can share resources, knowledge, and support to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for women.” 

“At KFC, we have implemented some programmes which have yielded great results – such as the Women on the Move Leadership programme to ensure the pipeline of leaders, developing them with quality education and training through initiatives like our Streetwise Academy and then providing career support into positions of leadership.” 

“Other successful initiatives organisations can implement include designing and building infrastructure that meets the needs of women and girls, involving them in sustainable agriculture, and elevating their participation and achievement in sport, as we do with KFC Mini Cricket.” 

“There's a lot we can do as individuals, too – we can call out stereotypes, challenge discrimination, question bias and celebrate women's success. Everyone everywhere can Accelerate Action.” 

Qengqe says the new list of 54 names brings to 107 the number of inspirational African women KFC has honoured and recognised in the past two years. “We know this is the tip of a wonderful iceberg, and we welcome nominations of other women who are Accelerating Action in Africa.” 

Explore the list of 54 women Accelerating Action across Africa: https://apo-opa.co/4heEjqM  

To nominate a woman Accelerating Action: Email: za-kfcafricamedia@yum.com 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KFC Africa.

For media inquiries and to arrange interviews with Akhona Qengqe and Nolo Thobejane: 
Elmarie Swart 
Phone number:  
WhatsApp: +44 7464739649 
South Africa: +27 79 831 2429 
Email: elmarie@kamuses.co.za 

KFC Socials: 
Instagram – @kfcsouthafrica - https://apo-opa.co/3FdDUap 
Facebook – @KFCSA - https://apo-opa.co/4hYOsJl 
TikTok – @kfcsa - https://apo-opa.co/4h83tHx 
X – @KFCSA - https://apo-opa.co/4h9pMMX 
YouTube – @KFCSouthAfrica - youtube.com/@KFCSouthAfrica 

About KFC Africa:
KFC has been in South Africa for over 53 years and has more than 1,300 stores across the country. The first KFC restaurant in South Africa opened in 1971 in Orange Grove, Johannesburg. KFC is the leading quick-service restaurant brand in South Africa with just under a third of market share, according to Brand Image Tracker. KFC serves more than 20 million customers a month and we work hard to ensure that no matter which of our restaurants they walk into, they will get that distinctive KFC flavour and have a great experience. KFC's Original Recipe® Chicken was first made by Colonel Harland Sanders in 1940 when he perfected his secret recipe of 11 herbs and spices at his restaurant in Kentucky. Today, KFC is the world's most popular chicken restaurant, still preparing our chicken with the Colonel's secret recipe to his exact standards. Every KFC restaurant follows the same global processes and procedures to ensure that our customers get great-tasting food, every time.  

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Quiz: Suite Dreams – What’s Your Ideal Accommodation Match?

Location: MyPR

Planning your next holiday and weighing up different accommodation options? From self-catering units to hotels and all-inclusive resorts, each option offers a unique holiday experience. To help simplify your decision, ekko, the lifestyle brand designed for millennials, has created this fun quiz to match you with your perfect stay. “The right type of accommodation to …

Read moreQuiz: Suite Dreams – What’s Your Ideal Accommodation Match?

Leading Business Minds Set to Headline Chambers Annual General Meeting

Location: Business

The Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber is set to host its Annual General Meeting on 28 May 2025, featuring a dynamic panel discussion with some of South Africa’s leading business experts who will provide invaluable insights into the future of the South African economy. The discussion will be facilitated by Rochelle de Kock, the Editor […]

Read moreLeading Business Minds Set to Headline Chambers Annual General Meeting

Johnnie Walker Takes Center Stage in Celebrating African Talent at the Trace Awards 2025

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

The Trace Awards 2025, proudly sponsored by Johnnie Walker, took center stage in Zanzibar, delivering an unforgettable night of music, culture, and celebration. As a champion of African creativity and progress, Johnnie Walker honored the continent’s biggest stars, recognizing the relentless passion and artistry shaping the global music scene while leading critical conversations on the …

Read moreJohnnie Walker Takes Center Stage in Celebrating African Talent at the Trace Awards 2025

’Throwback Cinema’ Movies Are Perfect for Merry Month of March

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

Enjoy these classic movies for just R50 at select Ster-Kinekor cinemas Ster-Kinekor’s Throwback Cinema promotion continues in the merry month of March. As the weather starts turning, a cosy cinema is the perfect place to spend a few hours with your friends, family and loved ones. And, with tickets at the classic price of just …

Read more’Throwback Cinema’ Movies Are Perfect for Merry Month of March

Lynn Names Extended 48-Strong Wales W6N Training Squad

Location: Sport

Head coach Sean Lynn has named a 48-strong extended Wales Training Squad for the 2025 Women’s Guinness Six Nations campaign. Lynn, who has appointed as Wales Head coach in January, has named a squad based around the 15 Welsh internationals who featured in the Women’s Premier Rugby Semi-finals. The Wales Head coach’s own Gloucester-Hartpury, Bristol …

Read moreLynn Names Extended 48-Strong Wales W6N Training Squad

SA joins the world in marking Hearing Day

Location: News

SA joins the world in marking Hearing Day

All South Africans have been called to join the global community in commemorating World Hearing Day on Monday.

World Hearing Day, which is celebrated annually on 3 March, aims to raise awareness about deafness and hearing and to promote access to ear and hearing care.

The day highlights a specific theme on which the World Health Organisation and its partners carry out activities based on the theme.

This year’s World Hearing Day theme, “Changing mindsets: Empower yourself”, builds on the 2024 focus on changing mindsets towards ear and hearing care.

Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities spokesperson, Cassius Selala, said that hearing was fundamental to communication, education, employment, and overall well-being.

“If it is left unaddressed, hearing loss can hinder speech development, academic progress, and economic opportunities. It can also lead to social isolation, stigma, and reduced quality of life.

“Hearing impairment (HI) is a silent planetary health crisis that requires attention worldwide. The prevalence of HI in South Africa is estimated at 5.5 in 100 live births, which is about five times higher than the prevalence in high-income countries,” Selala said.

According to the World Report on Hearing 2022, approximately four million people with a hearing disability live in South Africa. However, less than 600 000 South Africans use South African Sign Language, which accounts for just 0.02% of the country’s population, according to Census 2022.

Urgent interventions needed

Selala warned that without urgent interventions, hearing loss, particularly among vulnerable and disadvantaged populations, will continue to rise, exacerbating existing inequalities in healthcare access across the continent.

“It is estimated that by 2030, over 500 million people are expected to have disabling hearing loss, which will also require rehabilitation. Over the years, one billion young people will also face the risk of permanent hearing loss due to prolonged exposure to loud sounds during recreational pastimes, such as listening to music and video game play,” Selala said.

Addressing hearing impairment

To address the growing challenge of hearing impairment, the department is advocating for several key actions, and these include: 
• Improve access to ear and hearing care, especially in underserved communities.
• Combat stigma and misperceptions about hearing loss through education and awareness campaigns.
• Strengthen national policies to integrate hearing care into primary healthcare 
systems.
• Expand training programmes to increase the number of skilled hearing care 
professionals.
• Invest in infrastructure and assistive devices, ensuring that hearing aids, cochlear implants and other technologies are available and affordable for those who need them.

Selala urged individuals of all ages to empower themselves, to ensure healthy ears and hearing for themselves and others. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 09:56
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Finance in Common Summit Urges Global Development Finance Institutions to Harness Collective Power to Address Global Poverty

Location: News
African Development Bank Group (AfDB)

The fifth edition of the Finance in Common Summit (FiCS) concluded on Friday in Cape Town, South Africa, with strong calls for global development finance institutions to work together to address poverty and development challenges. South African Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana led the call.

The summit, which was co-sponsored by the African Development Bank and took place alongside the G20 Finance Ministers' Meeting, was themed "Fostering Infrastructure and Finance for Fair and Sustainable Growth."

Godongwana described the meeting as an unprecedented gathering of key financial players, saying: "Your determination and commitment will change the world. Your determination and will have an impact on global poverty.”

The minister linked the summit's goals to South Africa's development trajectory, highlighting the structural reforms the country had undertaken in the electricity, roads, and port sectors, which have opened new investment opportunities to development partners.

African Development Bank Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer, Hassatou Diop N'Sele—one of several senior officials of the Bank Group at FiCS—represented Bank Group President, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina at a meeting on Wednesday organized by the Council of Europe Development Bank. At the meeting, multilateral development banks reaffirmed a shared commitment to maximize their collective impact.

During the G20 meetings of Finance Ministers and central bank governors, Hassatou Diop N'Sele said, “We call on G20 nations to enhance financial commitments, especially for the 17th replenishment of the African Development Fund, to simplify processes for accessing climate finance, and to create enabling policies that facilitate sustainable capital flows to Africa.”

In her various interventions during FiCS, she discussed the innovative financing tools and initiatives launched by the African Development Bank to leverage resources and mobilize the private sector at scale, including the landmark hybrid capital transactions successfully replicated by other development finance institutions and the Africa Investment Forum.

N'Sele emphasized the urgency for philanthropies and foundations to further strengthen their partnerships with multilateral development banks and to fully embrace innovation to amplify their impact. She also recognized the challenges for expanding climate finance in Africa and reflected on such solutions and platforms as the Alliance for Green Infrastructure in Africa, designed to catalyze bankable, greener infrastructure projects at scale and speed.

The African Development Bank delegation highlighted the progress of Mission 300 (https://apo-opa.co/4bolqQE), an initiative to accelerate access to electricity for 300 million Africans by 2030. The Bank, working with the World Bank and other development finance institutions and private sector partners, has committed $18.2 billion to this effort.

Senior leaders of the Bank stressed the need for urgent action. Nnenna Nwabufo, Bank Group Vice President for Regional Development, Integration and Business Delivery, said: "Africa is not looking for aid, we are looking for partnerships.".

She added: "The time for pilot projects that deliver incremental progress is over. We need investments that enable our nations to take ownership of their development, fostering resilience, self-sufficiency, and sustainable growth that benefits both Africa and the global economy."

Solomon Quaynor, the African Development Bank's Vice President for Private Sector, Infrastructure and Industrialization, called for faster implementation of infrastructure projects. "Africa can no longer sustain infrastructure projects that take seven to 10 years to complete - we must accelerate development to deliver within three years, prioritizing green infrastructure," he said.

The African continent needs $2.7 trillion through 2030 to meet its climate action goals, but receives only 3.6% of all global climate finance, despite its minimal contribution to global emissions.

The African Development Bank's Director General for Southern Africa, Leila Mokaddem, emphasized that Africa's green transition must be inclusive. She said: "With 600 million Africans still without electricity, our transition cannot be about climate goals alone. It must be about jobs, industrialization and economic opportunity. The African Development Bank is supporting this vision through its Jobs for Youth in Africa strategy to create 25 million jobs and equip 50 million young Africans with green economy skills by the end of this year.”

The summit achieved several significant breakthroughs in expanding the scope and impact of development financing. Key outcomes included: the endorsement by G20 finance ministers of public development banks' crucial role in international financial architecture; steps toward setting up frameworks to support cultural industries as valid asset classes; and the formation of a coalition between public development banks and civil society to ensure that development finance serves communities.

CEO of Agence Française de Développement and Chair of the Finance in Common Summit Rémy Rioux noted: "We have made tremendous progress in building public development banks as an asset class through innovation, commitment, and shared values. In times of uncertainty and conflict, we are offering a calm, collective alternative."

"This has truly been an African FiCS," said Boitumelo Mosako, CEO of the Development Bank of Southern Africa. He added:  "With 34% of delegates coming from the continent, we have shown that Africa is unstoppable as the second fastest growing region in the world."

Following the Finance in Common Summit, the Fourth Finance for Development Conference will take place in Spain between June and July this year. Being organized by the United Nations and the Spanish government, that summit will feature continuing discussions on reshaping the international financial architecture to better serve development needs.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media contact:
Emeka Anuforo
Principal Regional Communication Officer
Email: media@afdb.org

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

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BMA suspends operations at five ports of entry

Location: News

BMA suspends operations at five ports of entry

The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, has announced temporary suspension of operations at five ports of entry due to severe flooding caused by heavy rainfall. 

The affected ports are Stockpoort, Makgobistad, Bray, Groblersbridge and Pontdrift.

“At Stockpoort Port of Entry, operations have been suspended as the port is completely surrounded by water. The corridor leading to the port, the operational area, and the bridge after the port have been submerged,” Masiapato said. 

“BMA and other law enforcement officials were stranded on the island where the Immigration Office is located, making movement impossible. In response, the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in Limpopo were activated yesterday to evacuate affected employees, including all law enforcement officers, using an EMS helicopter for their safety,” he said.

The Commissioner confirmed that Makgobistad Port of Entry remains temporarily closed due to the flooding of the Molopo River, while Bray and Groblersbridge Ports of Entry have also been flooded, leading to the temporary suspension of operations. 

Pontdrift Port of Entry is also affected by the high water levels and operations remain suspended until further notice. 

The BMA announced that Derdepoort Port of Entry, water levels have subsided and normal operations have since resumed. 

Travelers and commercial operators are advised to use Ramatlabama, Kopfontein, Beitbridge and Skilpadshek ports of entry as alternatives for cross-border movement. 

“The BMA continues to closely monitor the weather conditions across all ports of entry and will provide timely updates as the situation develops. We urge travellers and transporters to make alternative arrangements and remain informed through official BMA communication channels,” Masiapato said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 10:39
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Social Development and BMA to strengthen social services at border posts

Location: News

Social Development and BMA to strengthen social services at border posts

The Department of Social Development and the Border Management Authority (BMA) have committed to working together to address gaps in social service delivery at border crossings.

The two bodies held a high-level strategic meeting focusing on implementing the strategy for the employment of social workers and other social service professionals.

The meeting examined strengthening the partnerships between the two entities to address essential gaps in social service delivery, particularly in cross-border contexts.

The session, chaired by Acting Deputy Director-General for Corporate Support Services Lumka Oliphant, explored avenues for collaboration. This included building synergies between social service professionals and border management officials, recognising the vital role social workers play in protecting vulnerable groups including undocumented migrants, victims of human trafficking, and children in need of care and protection. 

Amanda Vokwana, the department’s Director of Organisational Development and HR Planning, outlined the strategy for the employment of social workers and other social service professionals. 

The strategy was developed as part of a broader government effort to employ 55 000 social service professionals by 2030, in alignment with the National Development Plan. 

“This strategy is not just a vision; it is a collective commitment to building a social service sector that is responsive to the needs of our communities. It seeks to address the employment gaps faced by social workers while ensuring that their skills are effectively utilised in both the public and private sectors,” Vokwana said at Friday's meeting.

This as the country continues to face pressing social ills, including poverty, substance abuse, gender-based violence, child-headed households, and human trafficking, she emphasised. 

The strategy provides a framework for recruiting, training, and retaining qualified social service professionals to tackle these issues. It also introduces a funding and deployment model to ensure professionals are placed where they are needed most, including in border management operations.

Vulnerable groups 

A significant part of the meeting held in Pretoria focused on a proposal for collaboration between the department and the BMA.
The proposal presented by Oliphant underscored the vital need to integrate social workers into the BMA’s operations, particularly in addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable groups. 

Oliphant highlighted that, like the South African National Defence Force, the South African Police Service, and the Department of Correctional Services, the Border Management Authority also requires dedicated social workers.
“Border posts are high-risk environments where social vulnerabilities intersect with security concerns.

“Social workers play an essential role in ensuring that individuals, especially children and victims of trafficking, receive the necessary psychosocial support and interventions in line with legislative frameworks,” she explained. 

Beyond assisting vulnerable groups, Oliphant stressed that social workers would also be instrumental in supporting the Border Management Authority’s personnel who are frequently exposed to traumatic and high-pressure situations.

“Border officials often deal with emotionally taxing cases, from human trafficking survivors to desperate asylum seekers. Having in-house social workers would provide much-needed psychological support and trauma counselling, ensuring the well-being of both staff and those they serve.

“With the growing complexities of migration and border-related social issues, it is critical that social service professionals are part of border management processes. Their expertise in psychosocial support, child protection, and victim assistance will enhance the effectiveness of our interventions,” she said. 

The Deputy Assistant Commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Peter Mphilo, acknowledged the financial constraints that have hindered the establishment of an independent social services unit within the agency.

While recognising the initial intent to develop internal capacity, he emphasised the necessity of collaboration with the Department of Social Development and provincial stakeholders. 

“We appreciate the assistance and cooperation from the provinces. The demand for social services at our border posts far exceeds supply, and this collaboration is critical in addressing those challenges,” Mphilo said. 

Infrastructure

He highlighted the need to assess infrastructure requirements at border posts, focusing on interception procedures, interview facilities, and the seamless handover of vulnerable individuals to inland social services.

“Mapping out the entire process, from the port of entry to final social service intervention, is crucial for us to determine what needs to be funded,” he added. 

Regarding funding strategies, Mphilo inquired about the role of donor funding and private sector involvement in the employment of social workers.

He stressed the importance of understanding whether private players directly fund social worker employment or contribute to broader organisational initiatives. 

Moving forward, the Border Management Authority aims to refine its strategy by aligning funding mechanisms, infrastructure planning, and service delivery models to support social service professionals operating within border management, effectively.
“We need to be guided in terms of requirements. A phased approach, where we employ one or two social workers per region to provide advisory services, would be beneficial.

“Currently, we rely on provinces for support, but their capacity varies, and assistance does not always arrive on time. Having dedicated social workers within border regions would help bridge this gap.”

Mphilo also emphasised the importance of ensuring compliance with legislative frameworks, particularly the Children’s Act, given that many women who cross borders irregularly do so with children. 

The presence of social workers at border posts would help facilitate proper child protection interventions.

The authority reaffirmed its commitment to continuing its partnership with the department, benefitting from its support, and actively participating in the broader interdepartmental task team to enhance social service provision within border management operations. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 12:03
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U20 South Africa: Africa’s ‘moment to lead’

Location: News

U20 South Africa: Africa's 'moment to lead'

City of Tshwane Mayor, Dr Nasiphi Moya, has described the 8th cycle of the Urban 20 (U20) – which is co-chaired by the City of Tshwane and Johannesburg - as a moment for Africa to lead.

The Mayor was delivering remarks at the launch of the 8th cycle of the U20 on Monday.

The U20 is an engagement group of the Group of 20 (G20). South Africa has taken over the Presidency of the G20 for 2025.

“This is our moment to lead. Not just as the City of Tshwane or the City of Johannesburg, but as Africa’s voice in the global urban conversation.

“Through U20 2025, we have the opportunity to shape a future that is just, sustainable, and inclusive. A future where African cities are not just participants but leaders in the global urban agenda.

“As co-hosts of U20 2025, our mission is clear: to ensure that the voice of African cities is heard on the world stage and that the priorities of the Global South are brought into the G20 agenda,” Moya said.

The U20 is a city diplomacy initiative which includes cities from the G20 countries and this year’s theme will be “Cities Leading the Way in Reimagining Global Change”.

Key priorities for this year include:
•    Economic opportunities and financing
•    Climate action and urban resilience
•    Social inclusion and equity
•    Digital transformation and innovation

Engaging citizens

Moya highlighted that although this year’s U20 will build on the foundation laid by last year’s co-chairs São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, “our goal is to ensure that this presidency reflects the realities of African cities and the needs of our communities”.

“U20 is a global initiative, but its success will not be measured in communiqués and declarations alone. Its impact must be felt at a local level. 

“This is not just about diplomatic meetings and international cooperation. It is about real economic opportunities, real investment, and real solutions for our people. It is about ensuring that the people of Tshwane and Johannesburg see themselves in this process and feel its benefits.

“We must use this platform not just to advocate for our cities on the global stage, but to showcase their resilience, innovation, and leadership to our own communities,” she said.

Pressing further, Moya emphasised that the impact of the U20 “must extend beyond government officials and politicians” who will gather for the U20 Sherpa Summit and African Mayor’s Assembly in June and the Mayoral Summit in September.

“We are committed to ensuring that the U20 process engages the people it is meant to serve. That means creating spaces for public dialogue and community participation, ensuring that our residents have a voice in shaping urban policies. 

“It means fostering connections between local entrepreneurs and global investors, creating pathways for businesses to grow. It means recognising that Tshwane, as a knowledge hub, has world-class institutions that must be part of this conversation.

“Cities are on the frontlines of the climate crisis, economic inequality, and social exclusion. It is time for our voices to be heard at the highest levels of global decision-making,” Moya said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

NeoB
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 12:05
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Read moreU20 South Africa: Africa’s ‘moment to lead’

3 Shifts in Executive Search That Are Making Potent Inroads

Location: Business

The changes that have taken place in executive search over the past decade, reveals Jeremy Bossenger of BossJansen Executive Search, have in the most part been driven by a competitive business landscape, and the need for superior board-level charisma. Diversity, equity, and inclusion for the win! A term called diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), which …

Read more3 Shifts in Executive Search That Are Making Potent Inroads

Department to meet NGOs impacted by freeze on US funding

Location: News

Department to meet NGOs impacted by freeze on US funding

The Department of Health will initiate a consultative process this week with various organisations impacted by the decision of the United States government to freeze and reduce donor funding for HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis (TB) response programmes. 

This follows the announcement by the United States President Donald Trump’s administration about significant cuts to foreign aid.

Until recently the United States government’s AIDS fund, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (Pepfar), supported numerous nonprofits in South Africa. 

These organisations assisted provincial health departments in getting people tested for HIV and ensuring they received treatment.

While the government provided the medication, Pepfar funded the salaries of essential health workers, including nurses, pharmacists, data clerks, and community health workers, who were responsible for administering the drugs and supporting patients.

According to the department, the meeting with non-government organisations (NGOs) aims to receive first-hand information to understand the extent of the impact of funding cuts to make informed decisions on the proper interventions by government.

“The department values the contribution made by these organisations in the country’s response to HIV/AIDS and TB, hence we remain committed to working with them to develop short-medium to long-term interventions,” said the department.

Meanwhile, the department has urged all people living with HIV who were receiving their life-saving HIV treatment from the sites and centres funded by the United States government through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and Pepfar to continue their treatment at their nearest public health facilities. 

“In the meantime, South Africans are also urged to go for regular health screening and testing to know their health status, and prevention measures to protect themselves and their loved ones.

“The department has already communicated with provinces to make necessary preparations and adjustments to accommodate new patients in the treatment programmes in accordance with relevant standard operating guidelines,” the department added. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Gabisile
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 14:57
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Meet Deel Local Payroll, Powered by Payspace: The Next Evolution in Payroll Innovation

Location: Business
PaySpace

PaySpace by Deel is now Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace (www.PaySpace.com)! One year after being acquired by Deel, PaySpace by Deel has officially transitioned into Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace. This milestone isn't just about a name change—it's about why Deel acquired PaySpace in the first place.

PaySpace customers can expect the same powerful payroll platform, now under Deel's global brand. Deel customers can utilise real-time payroll, which means real-time G2N (Gross-to-Net) calculations, shorter cut-off times, and less overall pressure and stress when running payroll across multiple countries.

Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace, formerly known as PaySpace by Deel, is a market leader in payroll technology, with more than 20 years of payroll and HR experience. Its flexible solutions cater to a wide range of clients, including small businesses, enterprises, and payroll service providers. The company has built the most technologically advanced native payroll engine, serving clients in 44 countries across Africa and the Middle East. It has over 15,000 customers, including big brands like Heineken, Coca-Cola, and Puma Sports.

Deel is a trailblazer in global employee and payroll management, enabling its customers to operate in different territories and simplify the complexities of managing employees according to regional financial and legal requirements. With global operations in over 150 countries, Deel simplifies the complexities of international payroll and HR, enabling companies to manage their global workforce efficiently and compliantly. Founded in 2018, Deel is the fastest-growing unicorn in history (a unicorn is a privately owned startup valued at over US$1 billion—Deel is currently valued at over $12 billion), helping businesses hire anyone, anywhere.

PaySpace is now Deel Local Payroll: New Brand, Same Team and Innovation

The acquisition, concluded in 2024, aligns the award-winning Deel Local Payroll team and cloud-native PaySpace platform with Deel's global operations. Deel Local Payroll is an independent subsidiary and a payroll product sold as a self-service option alongside Deel's global payroll product. Deel customers benefit through enhanced, innovative, and more flexible payroll tools for their teams.

The PaySpace calculation engine is now Deel's calculation engine, onto which Deel has localised its Employer Of Record (EOR) and Global Payroll (GP) products across numerous countries, including the UK, South Africa, Canada, and the UAE. Deel will keep localising countries onto this single engine—a unique competitive offering in the payroll market.

Under the Deel brand, Deel Local Payroll will continue to provide the same excellent payroll software and dedicated team that its customers have come to rely on, with the same management team, employees, support, channels, and logistics—only the name has changed. This seamless transition ensures no disruption to existing customer contracts, systems, or processes.

Deel Local Payroll's core cloud-native platform is now the PaySpace platform, an intrinsic part of how Deel delivers payroll services at grassroots levels to customers across the globe.

The PaySpace platform includes groundbreaking features:

  • Automatic legislative updates that are pushed directly to customers.
  • Robust integration with dozens of business applications and data sources.
  • Extensive automation features to remove pressure on payroll teams.
  • Powerful scale and flexibility that supports changing business requirements.
  • Secure anywhere, anytime access for multiple users and devices.
  • Pacey, a WhatsApp employee self-service bot for payroll slips and other information.

"When we founded PaySpace, we set out to create world-class payroll management that served all markets. Taking inspiration and lessons from our customers in Africa and leveraging cutting-edge cloud technologies, we built a true 21st-century payroll service that evolves with the needs of modern companies and their workforces. The rebranding from PaySpace to Deel Local Payroll allows for deeper integration with Deel, positioning us for continued success and growth. It's a positive move, building on the strong foundation we've already established," says Bruce van Wyk, CEO at Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace.

Deel's acquisition of Payspace, now Deel Local Payroll, and the PaySpace platform is a significant win for customers. It also serves as a testament to the resilience and flexibility of African tech. Deel, Deel Local Payroll, and the PaySpace platform are building bright futures for their customers as they continue to innovate and provide world-class payroll solutions built to simplify and enhance payroll at every level.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of PaySpace.

Media contact:
Victoria Lindsay
victoria@innocomm.co.za

About Deel Local Payroll:
Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace, revolutionises payroll management. It offers online, multi-country payroll and HR management for businesses from start-ups through to enterprise in over 40 African countries, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and Brazil.

Cloud-native, Deel Local Payroll, is scalable, configurable, highly secure, and easy-to-use—delivering anytime, anywhere access. It features payroll automation, self-service features, automatic legislation and feature updates, customised reporting, and more.

Since 2024, Deel Local Payroll has been part of Deel, operating as an independent subsidiary, serving its customers through the PaySpace platform. 

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