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South Africa’s Parliament ‘Pleased’ by Samsa’s Work, and Pledges More Resources’ Support.

Location: News

Cape Town: 18 October 2024 South Africa’s Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Transport has expressed its pleasure and satisfaction with the work of the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA, even as the entity is hard pressed to jack up its boots to enhance levels of safety in the country’s waterways for both life and property … Continue reading South Africa’s Parliament ‘pleased’ by SAMSA’s work, and pledges more resources’ support.

Read moreSouth Africa’s Parliament ‘Pleased’ by Samsa’s Work, and Pledges More Resources’ Support.

KZN ready to administer smooth matric exams

Location: News

KZN ready to administer smooth matric exams

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has reassured the public that the province is ready to administer the upcoming 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.

The exams are set to run from 21 October to 27 November 2024.

Briefing media on the province’s preparations for the exams on Thursday, Ntuli said a total of 172 433 full-time and 34 986 part-time candidates are set to sit for their final exams.

Joined by officials from the provincial Education Department, Ntuli said the 2024 academic year kicked off with the momentum of an 86% pass rate achieved by the Class of 2023, which made KwaZulu-Natal the second-best performing province.

Ntuli reiterated that this year’s goal was not only to maintain last year’s results, but to reach a 100% target.

Comprehensive preparation for 2024 NSC

The Premier outlined the measures taken by the province to ensure the Class of 2024 is ready for the exams. They include the 2024 Academic Improvement Plan aimed at increasing the pass rate from 86% to a minimum of 90%, with the ambition of achieving 100%.

“Winter and Spring Programmes were highlighted as key interventions, with over 98 975 learners participating in Winter Camps held across 1 001 centres. These programmes helped learners revise, practice past papers, and overcome subject-related challenges,” Ntuli said.

He said final weekend tuition sessions were also held across the province to ensure learners were fully prepared ahead of the examinations.

Thirty-two marking centres set up

Ntuli shared detailed logistical arrangements, which include the printing of 120 question papers, totalling 30 million prints and the setting up of 32 marking centres.

He announced that the marking of the exam papers will start on 1 December and finish on 10 December 2024.

Ntuli also assured that emergency measures are in place, with the South African Police Service and South African National Defence Force prepared to assist with logistics in the event of inclement weather.

Commitment to exam integrity

The Premier further assured the public that strict protocols are in place to ensure the integrity of the NSC exams, with close monitoring at high-risk centres.

“Yesterday [Wednesday], MEC Sipho Hlomuka and the Head of Department, Nkosinathi Ngcobo, inspected printing facilities and expressed satisfaction with the security measures. 

"To further uphold the credibility of the exams, all matriculants are set to sign a pledge [on Friday], committing to preserving the integrity of the examination process,” Ntuli said.

Ntuli extended his gratitude to the provincial educators, including officials and stakeholders, who played a crucial role in ensuring KwaZulu-Natal’s readiness.

He urged parents and communities to support the Class of 2024, as they embark on this important milestone. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 10/18/2024 - 10:50

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Read moreKZN ready to administer smooth matric exams

SIU ramps up investigation into Dawid Kruiper Municipality

Location: News

SIU ramps up investigation into Dawid Kruiper Municipality

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU), together with the South African Police Service and the Hawks, have conducted a search and seizure at the Dawid Kruiper Municipality in the Northern Cape.

This is in relation to a proclamation authorising the unit to investigate allegations of serious maladministration at the municipality related to the awarding of 24 contracts.

“The SIU and Hawks collected all payment documentation, which included confirmation of goods/services received, requisition forms, purchase orders, remittance advice, payment vouchers, reconciliation reports, monthly statements from service providers, and deviation forms captured from 1 January 2010 to September 2024, as stipulated in Proclamation 185 of 2024.

“Furthermore, the SIU has collected electronic items such as laptops, computers, mobile devices, optical media (DVD/CD), audio recorders, computer data storage mediums, external hard drives, memory sticks, and cards,” the SIU said.

On Thursday, the Upington Magistrate’s Court granted the corruption-busting unit a warrant to search for evidence at the municipality.

“The SIU has a reason to believe that a normal route of requesting information and documents would not have yielded positive results, hence it was deemed necessary to approach the Upington Magistrate Court for a search warrant to seize documents and computers to assist with the ongoing investigation.

“The Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act) empowers the SIU to subpoena bank statements and cell phone records, search and seize evidence, and interrogate witnesses under oath to investigate allegations brought before it thoroughly,” the unit said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

NeoB
Fri, 10/18/2024 - 10:56

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Sphokuhle N. Wins the Global Champion Award

Location: Business

On October 17th, the Chery Global User Champion Night commenced in Wuhu, China, where top KOCs gathered to participate in this exciting event. After intense competition, South African lifestyle trendsetter, Sphokuhle Ntshalintshali, emerged victorious, receiving Chery’s highest KOC honor – the Global Champion Award – for her remarkable influence and contribution. Sphokuhle N. is a …

Read moreSphokuhle N. Wins the Global Champion Award

President Ramaphosa to deliver eulogy at Mboweni funeral

Location: News

President Ramaphosa to deliver eulogy at Mboweni funeral

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to deliver the eulogy at the funeral of Former Finance Minister and SA Reserve Bank Governor, Tito Mboweni.

Mboweni died at the age of 65 last week and will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2, which will be held at the Nkowankowa Stadium in Tzaneen, Limpopo, this weekend.

READ | Former Minister Mboweni honoured with Special Official Funeral Category 2

“Dr Mboweni was the democratic South Africa’s first Minister of Labour from 1994 to 1999 in the Cabinet of Founding President Nelson Mandela.

“He served as Governor of the South African Reserve Bank for a decade from 1999. Dr Mboweni also served as Minister of Finance in the administration led by President Ramaphosa from 2018 to 2021.

“His funeral will feature ceremonial elements provided by the South African Police Service,” the Presidency said in a short statement. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 10/18/2024 - 11:12

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Read morePresident Ramaphosa to deliver eulogy at Mboweni funeral

Enjoy the Beauty of Ballet up Close as Swan Lake Dances Onto IMAX Screens

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

Filmed for IMAX®, and exclusive to Ster-Kinekor’s IMAX cinemas for a truly immersive cinema experience Have you ever wondered how the four cygnets keep such perfect time as they perform the much loved ‘Dance of the Cygnets’ during the second act of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake? What about all the emotions during the Black Swan pas …

Read moreEnjoy the Beauty of Ballet up Close as Swan Lake Dances Onto IMAX Screens

President Ramaphosa mourns passing of former Minister Membathisi Mdladlana

Location: News

President Ramaphosa mourns passing of former Minister Membathisi Mdladlana

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his condolences following the passing of former Minister of Labour and High Commissioner to Canada, Membathisi Mphumzi Shepherd Mdladlana.

This as news of Mdladlana’s passing broke on Friday afternoon.

“President Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to the family and friends of Mr Mdladlana who has passed away at the age of 72,” said the Presidency in statement.

A teacher by training and a former school principal, Mdladlana became a member of South Africa’s first democratic Parliament in 1994.

Four years later, he was appointed Minister of Labour by President Nelson Mandela and was retained in this role by Presidents Thabo Mbeki,Kgalema Motlanthe and Jacob Zuma.

The Presidency noted that Mdladlana’s predecessor was former Minister and Reserve Bank Governor Dr Tito Mboweni.

Dr Mboweni passed away a week ago and will be honoured tomorrow, Saturday, 19 October with a Special Official Funeral Category 2.

READ | Government updates the nation on preparations for Dr Mboweni funeral

“Membathisi Mdladlana’s passing is a loss to his family and friends as much as it is to the nation.

“While we may try to prepare ourselves for the inevitability of such a loss, bereavement is never easy. We have recently been visited by a succession of departures of veterans of our liberation struggle and pioneers of the dawn of our democracy,” said President Ramaphosa.

The President referred to Mdladlana as a pioneer.

“Membathisi Mdladlana was one such pioneer who was a first-generation Member of Parliament who had been prepared for this role during an extended period of leadership in the South Western African Teachers Association, the Peninsula African Teachers Association and the Cape African Teachers Union before becoming a founding member and Chairperson of the South African Democratic Teachers Union.

“He provided leadership in this strategic sector of our struggle at a time of great repression by the state and growing resistance by the people.

“In the year in which we are marking 30 years of freedom and democracy, Shepherd Mdladlana’s passing and that of other leaders takes us back in time to the sacrifices and struggles of our past, the hope with which we embarked on building a new society and the hard work it has taken since then to secure the gains we have made.

“Shepherd Mdladlana will live on in our hearts and our history. May his soul rest in peace,” said the President. - SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Fri, 10/18/2024 - 18:04

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Read morePresident Ramaphosa mourns passing of former Minister Membathisi Mdladlana

Loadshedding Remains Suspended: Eskom Nears Longest Uninterrupted Power Supply in Five Years

Location: Business

Friday, 18 October 2024: The Generation Operational Recovery Plan is on track to deliver yet another milestone, with the longest stretch of uninterrupted power supply in five years. The milestone will be reached on Day 206 of loadshedding suspension that falls on Saturday, 19 October 2024. Today, loadshedding remains suspended for 205 consecutive days since...

Read moreLoadshedding Remains Suspended: Eskom Nears Longest Uninterrupted Power Supply in Five Years

Government updates the nation on preparations for Dr Mboweni funeral

Location: News

Government updates the nation on preparations for Dr Mboweni funeral

Preparations for the Special Official Funeral service and burial of former Minister and Governor of the Reserve Bank, Dr Tito Mboweni are at an advanced stage.

“Government wishes to update the nation of South Africa and the international community on the hosting of the Special Official Funeral service and burial of former Minister and Governor of the Reserve Bank, Dr Tito Mboweni. Preparations are at an advanced stage,” the Government Communication and Information Systems (GCIS) said.

In a statement on Friday afternoon the GCIS said the body of the late Dr Mboweni will lie in state at Sasekane Village today with members of the public allowed to view the body between 4pm and 6pm.

This is ahead of the funeral service and burial that will take place on Saturday, 19 October.

The funeral service is set to take place at Nkowankowa Stadium outside Tzaneen in Limpopo from 10am.

“All who wish to bid farewell to Dr. Mboweni are welcome to attend. At the conclusion of the funeral service, the cortege will proceed to Bordeaux (eBodweni) cemetery where he will be laid to rest,” said the GCIS.

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to deliver the eulogy at the funeral.

Mboweni died at the age of 65 on 13 August and will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2.

In announcing that the former Minister of Finance will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2, the Presidency said the funeral will feature ceremonial elements provided by the South African Police Service.

In further commemoration, President Ramaphosa also ordered that the National Flag be flown at half-mast at all official flag stations from Wednesday until the evening of the funeral.

READ | President Ramaphosa to deliver eulogy at Mboweni funeral

Government has also encouraged the public to continue to sign condolence books that will be available on the day of the funeral.

Condolences books will be available at designated areas within Nkowankowa Stadium.

In addition, members of the public do not need accreditation to attend Saturday’s funeral.

The funeral service will be broadcast live on various television stations including the SABC, ENCA, and Newzroom Afrika.

“Mourners who may not be able to attend physically are encouraged to follow the proceedings through these channels and many others,” said the GCIS. -SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Fri, 10/18/2024 - 17:19

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Read moreGovernment updates the nation on preparations for Dr Mboweni funeral

Taiwan Blames China

Location: News

In the News Today: South Africa has ordered Taiwan’s representative office to relocate outside of the capital, a Taipei Foreign Ministry official said Friday, blaming Chinese pressure for the decision. China considers self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and has sought to whittle down the number of countries that recognize its claim to statehood. …

Read moreTaiwan Blames China

Water Crisis in Johannesburg

Location: News

In the News Today: The agriculture sector in Gauteng faces a potential crisis as water shortages grip the province, worsened by significant leaks in Johannesburg’s water infrastructure. Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, MEC of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, has highlighted the serious consequences for farmers relying on municipal water. “The current shortage of water poses …

Read moreWater Crisis in Johannesburg

Event Info: Was Katie Hopkins banned from South Africa by the ANC?

Location: Entertainment

Katie Hopkins was not officially banned from South Africa by the ANC (African National Congress). However, she did face significant controversy during her visit to the country. Reports indicate that she was detained upon her arrival and later allowed to leave South Africa. A moot point is that the ANC is a political party and […]

Read moreEvent Info: Was Katie Hopkins banned from South Africa by the ANC?

Citizens urged to change behaviour towards water usage

Location: News

Citizens urged to change behaviour towards water usage

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has reiterated a call for continuous action from all citizens to secure the country’s scarce resource through a change of behaviour towards water usage.

The department noted that South Africa is a water-scarce country and that water resources are under immense pressure due to climate change effects.

To further worsen the situation, the department said South Africans currently consume more water per capita at approximately 218 litres per day than the world average of approximately 173 litres per day, while Gauteng is sitting at 266 per capita per day.

“This means we are using more water than the required average and that is unsustainable. The demand-supply relationship for treated water in Gauteng is very tight and the system is vulnerable to disruptions now because there is no reserve supply capacity in the system due to high demand.

The DWS called on all citizens to contribute to saving water, emphasising that living in a water-scarce region means that “we all must use water wisely [and] water conservation is essential and can be done by everyone.”

“Finding and fixing water leaks is an essential part of reducing water wastage in our homes, businesses, sports clubs, schools, places of worship and everywhere else in our communities. We call on communities to follow restrictions put in place by your respective municipalities, and to use water with caution and reduce consumption.”

Enforcing bylaws on water restrictions

The department also called on Gauteng municipalities to implement strict water restrictions and enforce municipal bylaws to those who do not comply to water restrictions.
 

“Level 1 restrictions prohibit irrigation of gardens with sprinklers and hosepipes between 6am and 6pm; filling of swimming pools; and washing of paving areas and driveways with hosepipes.”

If high demand continues, the department said municipalities should implement higher levels of restrictions, including educating residents and communicating the benefits of conserving water, as well as the dangers of wasting it.

“Repair leaks and burst pipes timeously to reduce quantities of water lost, attend to illegal connections, and maintain water infrastructure to ensure reliability and sustainability. Residents, repairing leaking pipes in your property is your responsibility [and] by law, leaks should be repaired quickly, and this will also save you money,” the department explained.

Water saving tips

The department has provided some of the tips on how communities can further implement small-scale changes to save water in households, schools, parks, churches, industrial buildings, government buildings. 

These are: 
•    Keep the taps turned off when not in use.
•    Turn off your tap while brushing your teeth and only turn on when it is time to rinse (and where possible, rather use a tumbler). 
•    When boiling water, kettles should not be filled to the brim but with just enough water for your needs.
•    Wash your veggies in a bowl instead of under running water, then use the water to flush your toilet or water your plants. 
•    Only run the washing machine and dishwasher when you have a full load. 
•     Take a shower of five minutes or less.
•    Do not use a hosepipe to wash your car but instead use a bucket of water.
•    Do not rinse dishes under a running tap. 
•     Regularly check and fix leaking taps, pipes and toilets. 
•    Do not use hosepipes to clean on paved areas but rather use a broom to sweep. 
•    Water your garden either in the early morning or late in the afternoon. 
•    Avoid flushing toilets unnecessarily. 
•     Invest on rainwater harvesting system and use the water for water gardens, car washing and cleaning of paving etc.
•    Promote plantation of drought-resistant trees and plants as these can thrive even without irrigation.
•     Make an effort to educate the people around you on why you think saving water is important.

Tips on how to conserve water in industries

•    Minimise unnecessary water use in exterior landscaping. Instead of choosing lawns that require regular watering, consider using decorative landscaping rocks to fill the space so that you can cut down on water use.
•     Prioritise maintenance, cleaning and repair of water-using equipment to avoid leaks. 
•    Replace high-volume spray hoses with water-conserving models. 
•    The best way to conserve water is to recycle and reuse it.

“Mzansi, by making these simple changes, you can help save water. Saving water is part of our responsibility,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Fri, 10/18/2024 - 13:36

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Read moreCitizens urged to change behaviour towards water usage

Citizens Turning Out in Thousands to Support Those Affected by Cancer

Location: MyPR

The incredible support for the annual Algoa FM Big Walk for Cancer presented by ISUZU MOTORS South Africa, shows that the citizens of the Eastern Cape and Garden Route really care about those affected by cancer, says Algoa FM managing director Alfie Jay. The event takes place on Saturday, 26 October, starting at 8am on …

Read moreCitizens Turning Out in Thousands to Support Those Affected by Cancer

Taipei Liaison Office Relocation Mischaracterised

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation
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The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) notes with concern the mischaracterisation of its engagements with the Taipei Liaison Office (TLO).

South Africa's democratic Government severed political and diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 1997. This is consistent with resolution 2758 of the United Nations General Assembly, which is widely adhered to by the international community.

Relocating what will be rebranded as Trade Offices both in Taipei and in Johannesburg, which is standard diplomatic practice, will be a true reflection of the non-political and non-diplomatic nature of the relationship between the Republic of South Africa and Taiwan.

The Trade Office will be appropriately placed in Johannesburg, South Africa's economic hub. This also aligns with standard diplomatic practice that capital cities are the seats of Foreign Embassies and High Commissions.

Several engagements have been held with the TLO to correct this anomaly despite approaches by third-party countries, which is itself an unusual diplomatic practice.

The TLO were given a reasonable six months to make the move. The same was communicated via the South African Liaison Office (SALO) in Taipei by South Africa's representative to the territory.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Read moreTaipei Liaison Office Relocation Mischaracterised

SA must enhance agricultural productivity to achieve Zero Hunger

Location: News

SA must enhance agricultural productivity to achieve Zero Hunger

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says to achieve ‘Zero Hunger’, the country must enhance agricultural productivity and ensure equitable access to nutritious food.

“This involves investing in sustainable farming practices, empowering smallholder farmers and promoting local food systems,” the Minister said on Friday.

Addressing the 5th International Social Justice Conference and 6th Social Justice Summit -- held at the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town -- Ntshavheni said by supporting farmers, the country can boost food production and create jobs, fostering both economic growth and community resilience.

The start of the 5th International Social Justice Conference on 16 October coincided with World Food Day, an international day celebrated every year worldwide to commemorate the date of the founding of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation in 1945. 

Ntshavheni underscored the importance of promoting sustainable farming methods that enhance productivity, while protecting natural resources. 

“We must forge partnerships across government, the private sector and civil society, including academia, to create comprehensive strategies that tackle food insecurity,” she said, adding that collaboration is key if South Africa is to attain the goal of Zero Hunger. 

Zero Hunger is Goal 2 of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It is about creating a world free of hunger. The global issue of hunger and food insecurity has shown a sharp increase since 2015, a trend exacerbated by a combination of factors including the COVID-19 pandemic, conflict, climate change and deepening inequalities.

According to the United Nations (UN), by 2022, approximately 735 million people – or 9.2% of the world’s population – found themselves in a state of chronic hunger – a staggering rise compared to 2019. 

Ntshavheni said practices like crop rotation, agroforestry and organic farming can increase resilience against climate change and reduce reliance on chemical inputs.

“Supporting smallholder farmers through training and access to technology can empower communities and boost local food production. It is therefore important and significant that universities like Stellenbosch are deeply involved in this initiative. 

“It would be important for us in government to explore opportunities to partner with institutions of higher learning on this initiative in order to extend awareness to communities in rural areas of our country that are daily confronted with food insecurity. 

“This must make us understand the urgency to develop sound drought resilience and water conservation plans,” the Minister said.

The 6th Social Justice Summit was hosted by the Centre for Social Justice, based at Stellenbosch University.

Striving for food security

In 2014, government introduced the National Policy on Food and Nutrition Security, followed by the National Food and Nutrition Security Implementation Plan (NFNSIP), whose implementation involved multiple government departments and entities, with various interventions receiving support from local and international development partners.

“We are now in the process of developing the NFNSIP (2024 -2030) as we chase the National Development Plan (NDP) Vision 2030 goals. We are not only calling for a partnership in the [NFNSIP] development but with its implementation, as our country focuses on achieving the overdue SDG on Zero Hunger.

“Our policy approach to Zero Hunger acknowledges the lingering consequences of apartheid, which has left deep-rooted inequalities in access to land, income, and employment and other economic opportunities,” the Minister said.

Ntshavheni said as the country’s population growth and climate change intensifies, the urgency of food security cannot be overstated.

Ntshavheni said hunger on its own is a multifaceted challenge that affects the economy, health system and social fabric in general.

Addressing the conference, Electricity and Energy Deputy Minister Samantha Jane Graham said the issue of energy affordability remains a challenge, as the nation navigates the challenge of the accessibility of food prices.

Graham said her office is committed to finding innovative and sustainable solutions for energy sources.  – SAnews.gov.za
 

Edwin
Fri, 10/18/2024 - 14:39

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Parkview Christmas Market Returns for 16th Year

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

Parkview Christmas Market Returns for 16th Year Johannesburg, 17 October -Get ready for the festive season with the 16th annual Parkview Christmas Market! One of Joburg’s favourites, this year’s event will not disappoint – with over 80 stalls, great food including the oyster and champagne bar, a children’s play area, and entertainment for the whole …

Read moreParkview Christmas Market Returns for 16th Year

Democracy bus travels through KZN

Location: News

Democracy bus travels through KZN

As part of the nationwide 30 years of democracy campaign, the “democracy bus” is currently visiting various districts in KwaZulu-Natal.

Having kicked off its provincial visit in the rural Buhlebezwe Local Municipality, the bus has been to the Ugu, Ilembe, and King Cetshwayo District where members of the community have engaged with the bus crew on what 30 years of democracy means to them as well as the successes and interventions the democratic government has brought about to improve their lives.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture, Mntomuhle Khawula, commended the democratic government for the sterling work that has been done to improve the lives of all citizens. 

He said one of the biggest achievements of democracy was that all citizens now enjoy equal rights. 

The MEC applauded the efforts made by government to promote transformation in various sectors, including the political, social and the education sectors. 

He acknowledged that more still needs to be done to grow the economy to create more job opportunities, particularly for the youth, which would in turn address the issues of social ills and crime. 

“We need our young people to be economically active to ensure that there is prosperity in the country,” he said.

The Democracy Campaign will be intensified in the province as several activities are planned as a build-up to the Presidential Imbizo scheduled to take place in Umnini Sport Ground, Durban on 08 November 2024.

Build up activities include a visit to the Mandela Capture Site in Umngeni, a drive through the Ohlange Heritage Route, the opening of the King Shaka statue at the King Shaka International Airport, as well as a programme to take services to the people at Umnini Thusong Centre, Durban. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Fri, 10/18/2024 - 13:41

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Outcome of SAPPMA Special Meeting Renewed Focus On Quality

Location: MyPR

On 2 October 2024, SAPPMA held a pivotal special quality meeting via Zoom, gathering members to address pressing quality concerns within the industry. The meeting convened under the leadership of Chairman Jan Venter, once again emphasised the critical need for collective action to maintain the integrity of the SAPPMA brand. Key Discussions The meeting’s agenda …

Read moreOutcome of SAPPMA Special Meeting Renewed Focus On Quality

R1.1M Bounty for Community Innovation Challenge

Location: News

In the News Today: The City of Johannesburg is inviting residents to participate in the Community Innovation Challenge, an initiative to help fix the City. Led by the Smart City office, the initiative seeks especially the youth with innovative ideas that could help address service delivery issues and critical community problems.…continue reading HERE . Johannesburg: …

Read moreR1.1M Bounty for Community Innovation Challenge

Address by Actionsa President, During the 2024 Graduation Ceremony at the University of Botswana

Location: News

In the News Today: Yesterday, my colleagues and I decided to drive from Johannesburg to Gaborone. In fact, they did this in solidarity with me, as I wished to retrace the route I took when I first came to your beautiful country as a young, commissioned, hair product salesperson back in 1983. Back then, Botswana …

Read moreAddress by Actionsa President, During the 2024 Graduation Ceremony at the University of Botswana

Forum on Impactful Investment for Inclusive Growth in South Africa

Location: News

Invest Africa
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Invest Africa (www.InvestAfrica.com), in partnership with British International Investment (BII), the UK's development finance institution and impact investor, is excited to announce the upcoming forum, Impactful Investing for Inclusive Growth, taking place on 23 October 2024 in Johannesburg. This half-day event will focus on driving inclusive development in South Africa, addressing the critical challenges of digital, financial, and spatial inclusion. 

Bringing together key stakeholders, the forum will feature prominent speakers including Andile Ngcaba, Founder and Chairman of Convergence Partners, Hardy Pemhiwa, Group President and CEO of Cassava Technologies, and Carel Kleynhans, CEO of Divercity Urban Property Group. These thought leaders will share insights into how strategic investments can unlock untapped potential within South Africa's economy. 

BII, a pioneer in impact investing, has been a long-term partner to South Africa, with its first investment dating back to 1995. As the economic landscape evolves, BII remains committed to promoting sustainable development through impactful and inclusive investment. The forum will spotlight key areas such as digital infrastructure and affordable housing, while exploring how innovative financial solutions can drive inclusive growth and help South Africa meet its sustainable development goals. 

Chantelé Carrington, Chief Executive Officer of Invest Africa, commented: "Our partnership with British International Investment is a significant step in driving inclusive growth in South Africa. Together, we aim to empower communities, bridge gaps in access, and drive sustainable development across the country. We look forward to working collaboratively with BII to bring transformative investment to the region at the Impactful Investing for Inclusive Growth event." 

Chris Chijiutomi, Managing Director and Head of Africa, British International Investment, added:  

"We are committed to investing our capital to support inclusive and sustainable economic growth, particularly when it comes to offering vital climate finance. I am delighted to join forces with Invest Africa to bring together businesses and investors to unlock South Africa's economic potential. This will be the first in a series of forums that we will be convening to bring together entrepreneurs and industry leaders to support the government's agenda to bring about sustainable economic growth and increase innovation.” 

The forum will host two key sessions:  

  • Session 1: Digital and financial Inclusion (08:15 – 09:15) – Exploring the challenges and opportunities for expanding Africa's digital infrastructure, with a focus on how development finance can support affordable, wide-reaching connectivity across the continent. The panel will also explore innovative solutions to enhance financial inclusion and poverty reduction in underserved communities. 
  • Session 2: Spatial Inclusion (09:30 – 10:30) – Addressing the critical need for investment in affordable housing and township retail. 

The event will gather business leaders, investors, and policymakers for insightful discussions on how impactful investments can drive sustainable and inclusive growth in South Africa.  

For registration or inquiries, please contact George Meadows, Marketing and Events at Invest Africa, at george.meadows@investafrica.com. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Invest Africa.

For media inquiries, please contact:  
George Meadows  
Marketing and Events, Invest Africa  
T: +44 20 3730 5035  
E: george.meadows@investafrica.com 

About Invest Africa:
Invest Africa is a leading pan-African business platform that promotes trade and investment across the continent. With over 60 years of experience, our network includes more than 400 multinational corporations, private investors, fund managers, family offices, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, all committed to building opportunity across Africa. We facilitate business and investment through events, conferences, bespoke missions, and consultancy. For more information, visit: www.InvestAfrica.com  

About British International Investment (BII):
British International Investment is the UK's development finance institution and impact investor. As a trusted investment partner to businesses in Africa, Asia and the Caribbean, BII invests to create productive, sustainable and inclusive economies in our markets. Between 2022-2026, at least 30 per cent of BII's total new commitments by value will be in climate finance. BII is also a founding member of the 2X Challenge (https://apo-opa.co/409BUbF) which has raised over $33.6 billion to empower women's economic development. The company has investments in over 1,580 businesses across 65 countries and total net assets of £8.5 billion. For more information, visit: www.BII.co.uk | watch here (https://apo-opa.co/48k4sl6). Follow British International Investment on LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/4hdcnVa) and X (https://apo-opa.co/3UfiWgb). 

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