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GAC Motor South Africa is proud to announce its official partnership with renowned South African broadcaster and media personality, Hulisani Ravele, as the brand’s first-ever South African brand ambassador. This exciting collaboration coincides with the launch of the highly anticipated GAC EMZOOM in the South African market. The partnership aims to create authentic storytelling that …
South Africa is undergoing 'fundamental transformation' - President Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa, says South Africa is undergoing a “fundamental transformation” - as it seeks to accelerate inclusive economic growth.
President Ramaphosa was speaking at the South Africa Night World Economic Forum (WEF), held at the Garden Hall in Davos Klosters, Switzerland, on Tuesday evening.
The event, hosted by Brand South Africa, celebrated the country's G20 Presidency, an extraordinary opportunity to shape the global agenda for inclusive growth and sustainable development.
The event was held on the sidelines of the annual WEF meeting, which is taking place from 20-24 January 2025, under the theme: "Collaboration for the Intelligent Age".
The President told the gathering that the country has introduced reforms in sectors, including water, electricity and logistics, that are serving as a base for economic growth.
“South Africa is undergoing a fundamental transformation. We have introduced bold economic reforms to overcome persistent challenges and unlock the vast potential of our country and its people.
“These reforms have underpinned the country’s economic recovery in the wake of more than a decade of stagnant growth, state capture and the worst global pandemic in more than a century. These reforms are laying a firm foundation for sustained and accelerated growth into the future,” President Ramaphosa said.
He added that the reforms, and the subsequent structural transformation are “sharpening South Africa’s competitive edge, boosting productivity and attracting investment”.
The President pointed to the establishment of the Government of National Unity (GNU), as an example of the commitment from all leaders to maintain “stability, progress and partnership” in South Africa, as the country moves towards inclusive growth.
“While each party campaigned on different platforms, the Government of National Unity has agreed on a common programme to grow an inclusive economy, create jobs and build a capable state.
“Surveys have shown that South Africans have confidence in the Government of National Unity to take the country forward. It has also contributed to a marked improvement in business and investor confidence,” he said.
President Ramaphosa also pointed to partnerships that have been developed between government and social partners, in order to drive the country forward and face challenges together.
“We have a tradition of dialogue and cooperation, of working together to overcome even the most intractable of problems. As we confront the challenges of the present, social partners have been working together, in various forms and forums, to drive a programme of inclusive growth and transformation.
“A concrete example of this is the strategic partnership between the South African government and business. This collaboration focuses on innovative solutions to tackle critical issues, such as energy security, infrastructure gaps, crime and corruption, and job creation,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa described 2025 as “a momentous year for South Africa”, as the country takes its place as the first African country to bear the Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20).
He said through South Africa’s G20 Presidency, the country will demonstrate its unwavering commitment to global solidarity, equality, and sustainability.
“From the triumph of democracy 30 years ago, to our ongoing pursuit of inclusive growth, South Africa has demonstrated that collaboration and determination can shape a brighter future. It is this ethos we bring to the G20.
“Our Presidency provides a platform to amplify voices that have often gone unheard. It is an opportunity to advocate for solutions that prioritise the well-being of all, particularly the most vulnerable. South Africa is well placed to play this role,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 01/22/2025 - 10:30
The Principality Stadium has announced its iconic roof will close for all Wales’ international fixtures for the next two years. Fans will be invited to bring their voice and show why there is no better atmosphere to experience an international rugby match than when Wales play at home; this includes upcoming sold-out Senior Men’s fixtures …
Minister Lamola has extended his congratulations to Ambassador Maria Manuela dos Santos Lucas on her appointment as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation for the Republic of Mozambique. Ambassador Lucas served as Ambassador to South Africa since March 2023 and has been instrumental in deepening South Africa's relations with the Republic of Mozambique.
Minister Lamola stated he looks forward to working with Minister Lucas in order to strengthen the existing strong fraternal relations between the two countries.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
Nelson Mandela Bay residents urged to stop vandalism of infrastructure
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has called on community members to report and stop the vandalism of electricity infrastructure.
The call follows the collapse of a substation in Khayelitsha, Kariega, due to vandalism.
The City’s Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Electricity and Energy, Ziyanda Mnqokoyi, said the incident, which took place last week Monday, has resulted in the loss of power supply to many households.
Mnqokoyi said the substation is currently undergoing rehabilitation, and it will take approximately two weeks to fix the damage.
“We have been conducting oversight visits throughout last week in the affected substation building, which has unfortunately collapsed due to vandalism, resulting in a loss of power supply, and we can report that work has started.
“However, to restore power, a comprehensive scope of work is required, including the building of the distribution substation, procurement and installation of switchgear, and testing and commissioning,” Mnqokoyi said.
She said the team has made it clear that given the complexity of the work, ordinarily a completion timeframe for this type of work would take at least six months.
“However, they are working diligently to expedite the process, aiming to complete the project by 31 January 2025,” Mnqokoyi said.
Mnqokoyi has condemned the "blatant criminality", and appealed to residents to stop vandalising infrastructure, as this affects service delivery.
The MMC also called on any resident with information regarding the incident to report it to the municipality’s law enforcement agencies, or the South African Police Service, in order to bring the perpetrators to book. - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 01/22/2025 - 10:32
Nzimande forms part of ministerial delegation to World Economic Forum
The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, is part of the South African delegation, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, attending the 55th World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland.
The annual meeting is taking place from 20 - 24 January 2025, under the theme: ‘Collaboration for the Intelligent Age’.
“The meeting will convene global leaders to address key global and regional challenges, which include responding to geopolitical shocks, stimulating growth to improve living standards, and stewarding a just and inclusive energy transition,” the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) said.
During its Group of 20 (G20) Presidency in 2025, South Africa will endeavour to create equitable opportunities for all by addressing systemic disparities and promoting unity and mutual support to address shared global challenges collaboratively.
As part of the contribution of the DSTI, Nzimande participated in WEF panel discussions on Tuesday.
The discussions focused on scaling solutions for Africa’s economic future and getting the electric vehicles supply chain right.
Today, the Minister will take part in another session focused on the theme: ‘Space: Leaving No Country Behind’.
President Cyril Ramaphosa touched down in Davos on Tuesday and has already delivered a special address to the WEF, where he presented the economic priorities of South Africa’s Government of National Unity and the country’s G20 Presidency.
During the week, the President will undertake numerous bilateral meetings with Heads of State and Government and leaders of international organisations.
He will also participate in diverse activities in different sectors of the WEF annual meeting.
The President is accompanied by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola; Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau; Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa; Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi; Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Environment, Dr Dion George; Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi and Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 01/22/2025 - 09:37
Government, private sector partner to empower learners in rural KZN
Learners in uMkhanyakude, in the uMtubatuba region of northern KwaZulu-Natal, received a boost at the start of the school year when the Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, led a back-to-school campaign.
In partnership with Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa and the Izimpande Foundation, the Deputy Minister on Tuesday delivered 132 new school shoes to Bathathe and Mfekayi primary schools.
Both schools are no-fee institutions that provide accessible, quality education to their communities.
These schools are pivotal in uplifting the Mtubatuba region by fostering educational growth and opportunities for young learners.
Gina reaffirmed her belief that every learner deserves the necessary resources to thrive academically.
The Deputy Minister also extended her efforts to KwaNxusa High School in the uMthonjaneni Municipality and Qantayi High School in the uMhlathuze Municipality, where she donated essential stationery earlier this month.
Inspired by her initiative, Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa and the Izimpande Foundation partnered with the Deputy Minister to expand the campaign and provide much-needed school shoes.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education District Director, Thanduyise Motha, emphasised that providing children with adequate resources from the foundation phase sets a strong base for their academic success.
He said uMkhanyakude has risen to become KwaZulu-Natal’s top-performing district for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) Class of 2024, securing the third spot nationally.
Motha said when he was first appointed to the position, the district was ranked 75th countrywide, highlighting the incredible progress made in improving educational outcomes in the region.
Referring to the donation of school shoes, Motha said the gesture helps to contribute to the excellent pass rate in the district, which motivates learners to study further and harder.
He believes that this also motivates teachers to commit more to the success of the learners.
“This shows that government delivers on its promises at the basic education level, and I thank the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation for gracing us with this much-needed support,” Motha said.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Minister expressed her gratitude to the private sector for its role in the initiative.
“I thank the private sector for partnering with government in this initiative to positively impact our children, planting a seed from which the learners will reap benefits for their future,” she said.
During her interaction with the learners, Gina was inspired by their ambitions, as some learners expressed aspirations of becoming doctors, while another learner shared his dream of pursuing a career as a social worker.
The Deputy Minister encouraged all learners to stay committed to their studies and thanked parents for their essential role in supporting their children’s education.
Izimpande Foundation’s Sihle Ngobese highlighted the importance of supporting male learners in society, an initiative that led to the formation of the non-profit organisation in 2019, and the donation of school resources to various schools around the country.
“The idea of donating school resources is more than anything personal, where I was even assisted by someone I did not even know (sic). This planted a seed in me that I will also help others, just as I was helped.”
The principals of both schools expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the generous donation.
They both expressed hopes for continued support to further improve their school infrastructure and educational resources for the betterment of their learners.
The back-to-school campaign underscored the transformative power of partnerships in addressing challenges faced by underprivileged learners and ensuring they have the tools and support needed to excel in their education. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 01/22/2025 - 09:17
The Now & Forever Wedding Expo will be held on 25 January 2025 from 09:00 to 16:30at ANEW Resort Vulintaba Newcastle . This expo promises an inspiring day for couples planning their special day. Get some inspiration and connect with a variety of wedding experts ranging from cakes, décor, DJs, makeup and grooming, photographers, dressmakers, …
2025 is well on its way and is a popular time to buy and sell property as the South African real estate market offers exciting opportunities to do both. David Jacobs, National Sales Manager for the Rawson Property Group, shares his expert advice to help you navigate the market effectively in 2025. Understand the market …
ICC Chair Jay Shah this week met with IOC President Thomas Bach and other senior officials from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and attended an LA 2028 International Federations seminar at the Olympic House in Lausanne, Switzerland. The ICC Chair was also joined by ICC Chief Executive, Geoff Allardice with the meeting focusing on key …
Nigeria announced themselves to the world in beating New Zealand at the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup. Making their first appearance at the World Cup, they claimed a stunning two-run win over a nation whose senior team were recently crowned ICC Women’s T20 World Cup champions. But when you look a little closer, it …
A Finnish couple have been assisted after their sailing yacht drifted ashore in the early hours of Tuesday morning at Santos Beach, Mossel Bay. Andre Fraser, NSRI Mossel Bay duty coxswain, said: At 08h16, Tuesday, 21 January, NSRI Mossel Bay duty crew were activated by TNPA (Transnet National Ports Authority) Mossel Bay Port Control, and …
Dear Editor The DA categorically rejects the allegations being made against Dean Macpherson, Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, primarily by political consultant JJ Thabane, who moonlights as a media personality. It is not just suspicious, but in fact entirely transparent, that these allegations come just as Macpherson is exposing, investigating and stopping serious corruption …
MI Cape Town took another step closer to a first-ever Betway SA20 playoff spot on Wednesday evening after their encounter against Durban’s Super Giants at Kingsmead was abandoned due to weather. The visitors took away two points which pushed them up to second on the table with 16 points. Durban’s Super Giants, meanwhile, remain rooted …
What is Padel? Padel is a fast-paced racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. Played on an enclosed court, it uses a perforated racket and a tennis-like ball. The game is designed to be easy to learn, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Padel Tennis: The Basics …
Why the Right Padel Racket Matters Selecting the best padel racket can make a big difference in how you play. The right racket helps you maintain control, power, and balance during your matches. Different rackets suit different playing styles, so it’s important to find one that fits your needs. Beginners often prefer lighter rackets …
Late last year, a series of violent crimes targeting students saw us undertake an investigation in the university town of Stellenbosch. Our time there came just days after the brutal murder of a young man cycling home from campus. The incident was the latest in a crime wave that included several violent abductions – some of them caught on CCTV cameras placed around the town. Despite that evidence, police investigations have left a lot to be desired and questions are also being asked of the university’s role in helping to keep students safe. After the latest murder, we returned to Stellenbosch to get answers from the university and the police. Sadly, neither seemed keen on facing our cameras. For the full story, get DStv Stream Premium: https://bit.ly/DStv-Stream
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Johannesburg, 16 January 2025 – Shell Downstream South Africa has announced the recipients for their national bursary programme designed to support scholars from underprivileged backgrounds. 26 STEM newly selected Shell bursarsars are from the following provinces: Eastern Cape (2) Limpopo(2) KwaZulu Natal –(7), 1 of the 7 is in the KZN national top learners Northwest- …
With conservation at the heart of this eco-focused estate, Serenity Hills on the KZN South Coast welcomed two new residents on Tuesday, 14 January 2025; a male Grey Duiker and a female Bush Buck. The animals, released in collaboration with FreeMe Wildlife, will enjoy a new home that blends coastal forest, hills, rock outcrops, grasslands, …
Whether you’re aiming for a January that’s dry, damp or just hangover-free, with three varieties of ANGOSTURA® bitters in your secret stash, January can be just as festive as December! After the celebrations of December, January can often start on a rather sober note… that’s sober-curious for many, who start the new year on a …
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal hearing a complaint of sexual harassment against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge heard cross examination on Tuesday
Call to enter SADC Media Awards competition
South African journalists are invited to submit their entries for the 2025 Southern African Development Community (SADC) Media Awards competition before the deadline next month.
The competition is open to journalists from the SADC Member States.
“The SADC Media Awards were established in 1996 to recognise best media work in disseminating information on SADC to support the process of regional co-operation and integration in the region.
“To promote regional integration and cooperation (cross-border issues), the awards aim to recognise excellence in journalism in the area of print, photo, television, radio as well as to encourage media practitioners in member states to cover issues pertaining to the region,” the Government Communications (GCIS) said on Tuesday.
The first prize winners will receive their prizes and certificates on the margins of the SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government that will take place in August 2025.
The first prize winner in each category receives US$2,500 and the runner-up receives US$1000.
Journalists who wish to enter the competition can access more information about the competition from the www.gcis.gov.za website.
Entry forms can be accessed at https://www.gcis.gov.za/sites/default/files/docs/SADCEntryform2025.doc.
Rules of the 2025 competition can be accessed at https://www.gcis.gov.za/sites/default/files/docs/SADC2025RulesCompetition.pdf.
Entries need to be posted or delivered to MDDA or any GCIS offices nationwide marked:
MDDA Offices GCIS Offices
SADC Media Awards Entry or SADC Media Awards Entry
GSM Building Government Communications (GCIS)
SABC Auckland Park Campus 1035 Francis Baard Street
Johannesburg Hatfield, Pretoria
2006 0028
All entries must be submitted no later than 28 February 2025. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 10:23
Twenty suspects nabbed during Vala Umgodi operations in Limpopo
The prompt response from Limpopo Vala Umgodi multidisciplinary forces has led to the arrest of 20 suspects involved in illegal mining, drug dealing and violations of immigration laws.
In a statement on Tuesday, Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, said chrome worth over R1 million was also seized during an operation conducted on Sunday, following credible information from the community.
In Sekhukhune District, the task team acted on a tip-off regarding a drug dealer operating at the Groblersdal taxi rank.
Hadebe said the team’s swift response led to the arrest of a 31-year-old suspect, who was found in possession of 34 sachets of rock drugs, including 36 sachets of nyaope, 31 sachets of dagga, one plastic bag containing dagga and R656 in cash believed to be proceeds from drug sales.
A 53-year-old male suspect was also arrested at the same taxi rank for possession of four packs of illicit Remington Gold cigarettes.
“Further investigations led the team to a farm in Dithamaga village, Burgersfort, where illegal mining activities were taking place. Two male suspects, aged 38 and 58, were apprehended for illegally mining chrome with an excavator,” Hadebe said.
A total of 13 loads of chrome, with an estimated value of R1 058 560, and an excavator were also confiscated.
“In separate operations across the Capricorn, Mopani and Vhembe Districts, 15 individuals, aged between 22 and 41 years, were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act. The suspects were found to be in the country without the necessary documentation,” Hadebe said.
Hadebe has commended the joint efforts of the police and the community in combatting crime in the province.
She said the suspects are expected to appear before the respective magistrate’s courts in due course.
Twelve arrested for illicit mining in Northern Cape
Meanwhile, the continuous intelligence-driven disruptive operations conducted by the multidisciplinary teams of Operation Vala Umgodi, with a focus on illicit mining and other related crimes, has led to the arrest of 12 suspects in the Frances Baard and Namakwa Districts, Northern Cape.
Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane, said police received information about suspected illegal mining activities taking place at a mining hotspot in Kleinzee, in the west coast of the Northern Cape.
Further investigation led to the arrest of four suspects, aged between 35 and 57, for alleged illegal mining and trespassing on Saturday.
“The police seized equipment suspected to be used in the commission of illicit mining, and bags containing possible suspected diamond bearing material,” Shemane said.
In Frances Baard District, the police also received information about illegal activities taking place at identified locations in Barkly West.
Shemane said the police arrested five undocumented persons between the ages of 26 and 47, as well as the seizure of ammunition.
“Furthermore, members received information regarding the sale of drugs in Windsorton and upon arrival, a male suspect was searched, and suspected drugs were found in his possession. The 65-year-old suspect was subsequently arrested,” Shemane said.
During a search in another location in Kimberley, drugs were found and confiscated. A 50-year-old man was arrested for possession of drugs.
In an unrelated matter, a 36-year-old male was apprehended on Sunday in Galeshewe for dealing in drugs.
“Drugs with an estimated value of R3 000 were confiscated with a substantial amount of money believed to be the proceeds of criminal activities,” Shemane said.
Shemane has reassured that the police will continue with their concerted efforts in addressing illicit mining activities, as well as other related crimes.
The public is reminded to report any criminal activities to SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, or use the MySAPS App. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 12:26
What is Pickleball? Pickleball is a fast-paced sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Played with a paddle and a perforated ball, it is easy to learn and fun for all ages. The game is played on a smaller court, making it ideal for quick matches and social play. With its …
