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As we age, pain from arthritis, back problems, and nerve damage becomes more common. While managing this pain can be challenging, there are ways to help seniors feel more in control, improve their mood, and enjoy a better quality of life. Chronic pain is defined as pain that persists for over three months and can …
Engaging in regular physical activity before a cancer diagnosis can significantly reduce the risk of cancer progression and mortality, according to new research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine. The study, conducted by Discovery Vitality in partnership with researchers from Wits University and the University of Western Ontario, highlights the critical role of …
'27 for Freedom' run to honour Madiba
The spirit of former President Nelson Mandela will come alive at the historic Drakenstein Correctional Centre on Saturday, 8 February, as the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) hosts the 27 for Freedom Race.
Drakenstein, formerly known as Victor Verster Prison, is where the world-renowned former Statesman took his first steps to freedom after 27 years of incarceration (having served 18 of those years on Robben Island). His release from prison after 27 years became an iconic moment etched in the hearts of all South Africans and the world.
8 February 2025 marks the 35th anniversary of Madiba's release from Victor Verster Prison. Drakenstein Correctional Services is hosting the 13th 27 for Freedom race to commemorate the historic event. Drakenstein Correctional Centre is situated outside Paarl on the R301 in the Western Cape.
National Commissioner of Correctional Services, Makgothi Thobakgale, said the race is a reminder of the painful history that South Africa has had to overcome.
“The 27 for Freedom race is more than just a sporting event, but a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for our freedom, and a call to embody the values of unity and perseverance that Madiba stood for.
“I am deeply honoured to participate in this race, which connects us to our history and inspires future generations to continue building a better South Africa,” Thobakgale said on Tuesday.
The DCS said the 27 for Freedom race “offers something for everyone”, with participants able to choose from the:
“The race commemorates Madiba’s legacy and sacrifices, symbolised through the 27 kilometre route, representing his 27 years behind bars.
“It is a race that not only pays tribute to his extraordinary journey but also promotes unity, fitness and community engagement,” the department said.
Register for the race on https://www.topevents.co.za/event/27-for-freedom-2025/.
The deadline for registrations is today, 29 January. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 01/29/2025 - 09:22
SA signs international treaty to boost food security, biodiversity
South Africa has joined scores of countries worldwide that have formalised their commitment to ensuring the conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) announced on Tuesday that South Africa has officially signed the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA).
The objectives of the ITPGRFA are conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture, and to promote the fair and equitable sharing of these benefits arising from their use, in agreement with the Convention on Biological Diversity for sustainable agriculture and food security.
The treaty also aims to, among others, recognise the contribution of farmers in enhancing the diversity of crops that feed the world; establish a global system to provide farmers, plant breeders and scientists with access to plant genetic materials, and ensure that the recipients thereof share the benefits they derive from using these genetic materials.
Some of the countries that have ratified the treaty include Australia, Belgium, Egypt, the United States of America and Argentina, to name a few.
South Africa submitted its instrument of accession with the Director-General of the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) on 23 December 2024, making it the 154th Contracting Party to this international treaty.
By joining the ITPGRFA, the DALRRD said South Africa is reaffirming its commitment to global efforts to conserve and sustainably use plant genetic resources, which are essential for food security and agricultural biodiversity.
This is aligned with the recently approved White Paper on Conservation and Sustainable Use of South Africa’s Biodiversity.
“South Africa’s accession to the ITPGRFA brings new opportunities for collaboration within the treaty’s framework, including participation in its multilateral system, which facilitates access to a global pool of genetic resources.
“The ITPGRFA’s national implementation will require close collaboration between the National Genebank, the relevant national departments, provincial Departments of Agriculture, community seed banks, farmers, civil society organisations, industry and research and academic institutions,” the department said.
More information on the ITPGRFA can be accessed on https://www.fao.org/plant-treaty/en/. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 01/29/2025 - 10:27
Western Cape Education’s systemic test results surpass 2019 scores
The Western Cape Education Department’s (WCED) 2024 annual systemic test results have indicated significant progress in children’s learning, with certain scores exceeding pre-COVID-19 levels.
“The pass rates for both Grade 9 mathematics and Grade 3 language are now higher than they were in 2019, with the remaining grades and subjects catching up quickly,” the department said in a statement.
The Western Cape is the only province in the country to conduct annual systemic testing in both mathematics and language for learners in Grades 3, 6, and 9.
These tests are internationally benchmarked and are administered, marked, and moderated externally to ensure objectivity and to provide a credible and relevant benchmark for evaluation.
“As a result, we have been well-placed to determine the impact of the pandemic on our children’s learning outcomes, as well as develop detailed strategies to reverse learning losses in the Western Cape.”
Headline results
According to the latest data, the pass rate for Grade 9 mathematics increased by 2.9 percentage points compared to 2023 and now exceeds the 2019 score by 0.7 percentage points.
“We also saw an increase of 4.3 percentage points for Grade 3 mathematics, and 1.1 percentage points for Grade 6 mathematics, compared to 2023. While the scores for these grades have not yet reached 2019 levels, the scores this year are nonetheless significantly higher than in 2021,” the statement read.
Grade 3 language scores increased by 2.9 percentage points compared to 2023, now exceeding the 2019 pass rate by 0.5 percentage points.
Meanwhile, the pass rate for Grade 6 language has increased by 4.0 percentage points compared to 2023, reducing the difference with 2019 scores to just 1.3 percentage points.
“Unfortunately, we have seen a decline in our Grade 9 language scores of 2.8 percentage points compared to 2023. Our officials will be looking into this result in detail to put remedial plans in place.”
Next steps
While the WCED has seen an improvement in scores, there is still work to be done, with an even greater focus on learning outcomes.
Schools will now receive individual school reports, to help them develop a tailored approach by identifying gaps in learning unique to their school’s circumstances.
The results will also be provided to curriculum officials, including those leading the #BackOnTrack programme interventions.
A key part of the #BackOnTrack programme is ensuring that interventions are refined over time to focus on the interventions that work and are sustainable.
“We will use the new data to analyse where we need to direct the programme’s resources and supplement the findings of the recent Stellenbosch University report on the effectiveness of our interventions.”
The department has thanked all the school staff, officials, tutors, and learners who have worked hard to improve learning outcomes over the past year and look forward to their support as they strive to give learners a better future in the Western Cape.
The WCED said no testing was conducted in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 01/29/2025 - 09:30
Ermelo, South Africa – As technology continues to reshape South Africa’s agricultural landscape, Afri Air is proud to highlight the DJI Mavic 3 Multispectral, a cutting-edge drone designed to elevate farming efficiency and productivity. With its advanced imaging capabilities, precision mapping, and seamless integration with farm management systems, this drone offers innovative solutions tailored to …
President Ramaphosa extends well wishes to China on Lunar New Year
President Cyril Ramaphosa has conveyed messages of goodwill to the government and people of the People’s Republic of China on the commencement of the Lunar New Year of the Snake and Annual Spring Festival, on Wednesday, 29 January 2025.
The Lunar New Year is celebrated to usher in a New Year on the day of the first sighting of the new moon, in line with the traditional Chinese calendar.
This year has been declared the Year of the Snake. The snake is expected to bring about transformation and new beginnings.
"We extend our good wishes to the Chinese community in South Africa including Chinese citizens who live in or are currently visiting our beautiful country.
“Similarly, we wish that the New Year will bring continued success to our Chinese trade and investment partners who are making an important contribution to our economy,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President expressed his hope that the new brings new prosperity in relations between the two countries.
“We are confident that, under the leadership of His Excellency President Xi Jinping, the Year of the Snake will sustain the People’s Republic of China’s standing as a formidable force for good and a source of wisdom and shared prosperity in the global family of nations.
“May the celebration of Spring and the rebirth of nature be a symbol of the blossoming of even closer relations between our two nations under our All-Round Strategic Cooperative Partnership in a New Era,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 01/29/2025 - 09:06
But things didn’t go the way they wanted
STELLENBOSCH: Chad Mason’s four wickets on day three left the first Youth Test between South Africa Under-19 Men and England evenly...
For the NSRI volunteers being busy means putting your life on the line in order to give back to society in so many ways that will be remembered for years to come. And, therein lies the rub, all that training cries out to be put to good use, whilst the brave men and women pray …
A rejuvenated Pretoria Capitals claimed the honours in the Jukskei Derby with a six-wicket bonus point victory over Joburg Super Kings at Centurion on Tuesday evening. The Capitals now move up to 14 points – just one point behind the fourth-placed Super Kings on 15. Capitals coach Jonathan Trott made wholesale changes with five new …
RS South Africa, a global product and service solutions provider for industrial customers, has announced its recent achievement of Level 2 Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) certification, underscoring its unwavering commitment to transformation. This milestone, attained at the end of September, is not merely a badge of honour for the company, it signifies a holistic …
Johannesburg, January, 28,2025: The recent sale of the Single ‘9′ Kruger Pond for $2.15 million (R40 million) at a Heritage Auctions event on January 13, 2025, underscores the robust demand and escalating value of rare Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek (ZAR) coins in the global numismatic market. This landmark transaction highlights the historical significance of such pieces and reflects …
Eden to Addo is an initiative to restore biodiversity and combat climate change by protecting over 55 000 hectares of land and creating interconnected corridors across South Africa's Garden Route. By addressing habitat fragmentation – one of the leading causes of biodiversity loss – Eden to Addo works to protect and restore natural ecosystems, enabling wildlife to thrive along ancient migratory pathways.
Focused on key areas like the Robberg Coastal Corridor, Keurbooms Corridor, Langkloof Corridor, and Springbokvlakte Corridor, the project supports farmers and landowners as biodiversity stewards, facilitating the declaration and management of protected areas.
Join us as we speak to Eden to Addo CEO Rhian Berning, an environmental scientist and educator with over 20 years of experience.
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In today’s economy, many are looking for effective ways to increase their financial stability. Selling unused or unwanted gold and jewelry emerges as a viable option for those in need of quick cash. This guide aims to navigate you through the process of converting your precious items into cash, ensuring you get the best possible …
There’s a growing trend of choosing retirement apartments at the coast rather than homes as this suits senior citizens’ modern lock-up-and-go lifestyle. While there are many benefits to investing in a more manageable apartment in later years, retirees need to consider some key factors when making that decision. “Today’s retirees are not necessarily looking for …
Stepping up: Pupils to benefit from school shoes initiative
While it is often said that clothes make the man, a new, shiny pair of school shoes may do just the same for many school pupils, especially those that are underprivileged.
Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong on Tuesday received 470 pairs of school shoes from Capital Centric, on behalf of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) which will be donated to needy learners.
Capital Centric is a dynamic, unlisted public company, specializing in private equity investments. Guided by the philosophy of Kaizen, which, according to its website, emphasizes continuous improvement, the company focuses on identifying opportunities and building long-term value for its stakeholders.
The Deputy Minister said he was humbled by the gesture as he received the shoes.
“We are quite elated by the commitment demonstrated by the private sector. This donation will go a long way in helping kids who under normal circumstances would not be able to walk to schools with shoes,” a beaming Morolong said on Tuesday.
He stressed that by working together, the private sector, civil society and government can do more to fundamentally alter the circumstances under which people live.
“This collaboration will go a long way. We really wish to thank you for collaborating with GCIS to drive the programmes that impact our communities. I am speaking for these children who under normal circumstances would not be able to receive these shoes,” said the Deputy Minister.
Capital Centric Chief Executive Officer, Nathaniel Bricknell, said the company not only invests in small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) and enterprises that are profitable, scalable and sustainable, but also takes pride in playing a pivotal role in driving social impact within the sectors it serves.
“We are elated to hand over 470 pairs of school shoes to GCIS, to be distributed to schools and learners in need,” said Bricknell.
Bricknell explained that each pair of shoes tells its own unique story. This as the shoes are manufactured in South Africa and crafted from medical waste that might otherwise have ended up in landfills or have been destroyed.
Collaboration
“These shoes, made from plastic consumables that transitioned from saving life to creating opportunity, represent the very essence of transformation and sustainability.
“We believe in the power of collaboration to amplify impact. That’s why we have invited other corporates such as FNB and others we work with daily to participate in similar initiatives that drive positive change” Bricknell explained.
Bricknell thanked the GCIS for fostering a cooperative environment that enables the private sector to play an active role in uplifting communities.
“Together we are not just investing in the future of businesses but also in the future of our children, our communities and our country,” he said.
The company's Non-Executive Director, Pearl Munthali, said the entity appreciates the partnership with government.
“We are hoping to continue to partner with government changing the lives of those who are underprivileged in our country,” Munthali said.
The donation comes as schools across the country reopened for the 2025 academic year.
SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 01/28/2025 - 20:55
The Bridge City Housing development was approved in 2019 but due to delays and financial problems the project remains largely incomplete
When dealing with international documents, having them authenticated is often a mandatory step. This process ensures the document is legally recognised in a foreign country. One of the most efficient ways to authenticate such documents is through an apostille. This certification simplifies the acceptance of documents across borders, making legal and business processes much easier. …
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA), as part of South Africa’s Government of National Unity, calls on the United States government to urgently restore PEPFAR funding for the treatment of HIV/AIDS. The immediate cessation of PEPFAR funding has resulted in the sudden suspension of critical health support services at NGO’s across the nation, on which …
The Africa-Paris Declaration, forged during the 2024 Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum in Paris, was a pivotal moment in Africa's quest for sustainable energy solutions. Aimed at strengthening the continent's energy transition while addressing the urgent issue of energy poverty, the declaration set ambitious targets for expanding access to clean, affordable and reliable energy. With the 2025 edition of the forum approaching, now is the time to reflect on the progress made since the Africa-Paris Declaration and assess how these initiatives are shaping Africa's energy future.
Increased Engagement in Africa
In the months following the declaration, international investors, development banks and private equity firms have shown a steadfast interest in the African energy market. A key milestone was the launch of the Africa Energy Bank by the African Export-Import Bank and APPO, marking the creation of a first-of-its-kind institution designed to fund and facilitate energy initiatives across the continent. Several final investment decisions were successfully closed, including Shell's $5.5 billion Bonga North deepwater project. Additionally, strategic partnerships, including new PSCs signed by Panoro Energy in Equatorial Guinea and BW Energy in Gabon, highlight how international collaborations are accelerating energy development and creating new opportunities for exploration and production. This increased engagement is key to addressing the financing gap that has long hindered the growth of Africa's energy sector.
Natural gas continues to play a central role in Africa's energy strategy as a transitional fuel. The Africa-Paris Declaration underscored its importance as a bridge between traditional energy sources and renewable energy. Over the past year, significant strides have been made in natural gas exploration and LNG exports. Notable developments include Senegal's Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG reaching its first gas production, the Republic of Congo's first LNG exports to Italy from the Congo LNG project, Nigeria's UTM FLNG receiving its construction license, and Angola's Sanha Lean Gas Connection project achieving first gas, among others. These initiatives are not only crucial for advancing Africa's energy transition, but also serve as powerful drivers of economic growth by creating jobs and advancing infrastructure development.
Meanwhile, countries like South Africa, Egypt and Morocco are at the forefront of wind and solar energy development, with momentum expected to build as they meet renewable energy targets and explore new growth opportunities. These investments are driving a shift toward cleaner, more sustainable energy in Africa, though challenges remain. High costs of renewable technologies and insufficient grid infrastructure continue to hinder expansion, underscoring the need for more investment in off-grid and mini-grid solutions.
Investment Gaps Persist
Despite these advancements, Africa still faces significant investment challenges. The financing gap for large-scale energy projects remains substantial and while the private sector has become more engaged, many projects still struggle to secure the necessary capital. In particular, the cost of financing remains high due to the perceived risks associated with energy investments in Africa. This is where continued efforts to de-risk investments and foster public-private partnerships are critical to unlocking the continent's full energy potential. Institutional capacity continues to be a challenge for many African countries. While progress has been made in improving regulatory frameworks, there is still a need for clearer policies, streamlined permitting processes and better enforcement of regulations. Governments must continue to strengthen their institutions to effectively implement energy projects and create an enabling environment for both local and international investors.
With the IAE 2025 forum just months away, industry stakeholders have an opportunity to reflect on the progress made since the Africa-Paris Declaration and determine next steps for the continent's energy future. The forum serves as a platform for government officials, industry leaders and financial institutions to renew commitments, share success stories and address ongoing challenges. While the road to universal energy access and a sustainable energy future is long, the declaration has set the framework for a collective effort that can lead to meaningful change. With the right investments, regulatory frameworks and political will, Africa can emerge as a global leader in energy innovation and sustainability.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
IAE 2025 (www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) today confirmed that Geoff Allardice has decided to step down as ICC Chief Executive. Mr Allardice joined the ICC in 2012 as ICC General Manager of Cricket, joining from Cricket Australia where he held the role of Cricket Operations Manager. He was appointed as the ICC’s CEO in November 2021, …
Ensuring the safety and potability of your water supply is crucial for health and well-being. This comprehensive guide explores the importance of water testing and the various methods and technologies available for assessing and improving water quality. What is Water Potability? Water potability refers to the suitability of water for drinking purposes. Ensuring the …
Key African energy ministers, national oil companies (NOCs) and regulators have been recognized for their contributions to advancing hydrocarbon exploration, LNG megaprojects and policy reforms in the African Energy Chamber's (www.EnergyChamber.org) Top 40 Movers and Shakers to Watch in 2025 list.
Namibia's Tom Alweendo, Minister of Mines and Energy, is at the forefront of the country's emerging oil industry. With first oil expected by 2029 and a pioneering local content policy in place, Minister Alweendo is focused on translating Orange Basin discoveries into tangible development, while balancing investor and community needs. In the Republic of Congo, Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons, has led milestones including the country's first LNG exports and the Banga Kayo gas project. As Congo prepares for a 2025 licensing round and implements its Gas Master Plan, Minister Itoua's leadership will be critical in positioning the country as a leading energy hub. Equatorial Guinea's Antonio Oburu Ondo, Minister of Mines and Hydrocarbons, is driving efforts to reverse declining oil and gas production. Minister Ondo is tasked with securing investment, implementing the Gulf of Guinea gas pipeline project with Nigeria, and advancing the Yoyo-Yolanda gas project to revitalize the country's energy sector.
Africa's leading NOCs and regulators were also recognized for their pivotal role in driving energy sector developments in 2025. Godfrey Moagi, CEO of South Africa's National Petroleum Company (SANPC), is spearheading efforts to develop the Brulpadda and Luiperd discoveries, while advancing gas-to-power projects at Saldanha Bay, Richards Bay and Coega LNG terminals. Moagi's leadership will determine SANPC's ability to establish itself as a key player in the country's energy transition. In Angola, Sebastião Gaspar Martins, CEO of Sonangol, is driving a sweeping transformation to restore the company's profitability. With strategic partnerships, operational streamlining and the sale of non-core assets, Sonangol is poised to emerge as a more efficient and competitive entity under his guidance.
Maxient Raoul Ominga, Managing Director of SNPC, is spearheading initiatives in the Republic of Congo to boost oil production to 500,000 barrels per day. Through the development of key fields and implementation of the Gas Master Plan, Ominga is positioning Congo as a competitive gas player while reducing flaring and diversifying revenue streams. In Ivory Coast, Fatoumata Sanogo, CEO of PETROCI, is driving hydrocarbon development through strategic partnerships with TotalEnergies and Eni. With the Baleine field development on track to significantly boost production by 2025, PETROCI is cementing the country's position as a regional energy hub.
Sylvia dos Anjos, Head of E&P at Petrobras, is leading the Brazilian NOC's ambitious re-entry into Africa, targeting markets in Namibia, South Africa and Angola. Her vision focuses on leveraging untapped reserves to establish Petrobras as a competitive player and strengthen Brazil's partnership with Africa. In Sierra Leone, Foday Mansaray, Director General of the Petroleum Directorate, is fostering investment in offshore oil and gas exploration. Following the successful conclusion of Sierra Leone's fifth licensing round, Mansaray is focused on turning interest into tangible exploration and production gains.
As Africa's energy future continues to unfold, the AEC remains committed to recognizing and supporting the leaders who are making transformative impacts in the sector. For the full Africa's Top 40 Movers and Shakers to Watch in 2025 list, visit www.EnergyChamber.org
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
