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Dear Editor The threat to teaching and other frontline service jobs due to severe underpayments of budgets has now come to the fore. Provinces like KwaZulu-Natal are at the greatest risk, with projections showing that as many as 11 000 teaching positions may be lost if urgent budgetary interventions are not made. This funding crisis …
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) has lodged a complaint with the ethics committee of the Great Kei Municipality Council after an alleged acid attack on a municipal employee by a local councillor. The alleged incident took place last Saturday at an event at the house of the ANC Ward 7 councillor, Cllr Zola Tshali. …
In the aftermath of a tragic bus accident, the Western Cape Government (WCG) once again expresses its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by the bus accident that occurred on Vanrhyns Pass on Monday, 2 September 2024. We share in the grief of the families and communities and stand with them during …
A landmark partnership between South Africa’s premier arts festivals, and its only dedicated music mobility fund, has been announced with the goal of empowering artists and stimulating better collaboration in the creative industry. The Festival Enterprise Catalyst (FEC) project, a joint initiative by the National Arts Festival, Nasionale Afrikaanse Teater-inisiatief (NATi), Concerts SA, Woordfees, Aardklop, …
The countdown has begun! The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) Nyoloha Scholarship Programme (NSP) is entering its second last showcase, with anticipation building for the upcoming ACT Nyoloha Gala Showcase (performing arts showcase) and Visual Arts Exhibition. This year, ACT is pleased to partner with Sun International to host the gala showcase at the esteemed …
It will be an inspired and motivated Springbok Women team running out at DHL Stadium in Cape Town on Saturday, in what will be a historic first appearance at this impressive venue and according to the team’s captain, Nolusindiso Booi, they want to match the occasion with an impressive performance against the Barbarians. South Africa …
Mpox no threat to Africa Aerospace and Defence Expo
The highly anticipated Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) Expo and Air Show, which takes place from 18-22 September 2024, is under no threat from the mpox outbreak, according to the event organisers.
Mpox has seen a resurgence in South Africa in 2024 after no reported cases in 2023.
As of 18 August 2024, South Africa has recorded 24 cases, including three fatalities.
The country has since logged 19 recoveries, and only two active cases are currently undergoing home isolation.
“While the numbers are low, the re-emergence of mpox underscores the importance of continued vigilance,” the statement read.
The Department of Health, in collaboration with international organisations such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), has taken robust measures to contain and manage the virus.
These measures include enhanced testing, isolation protocols, and community engagement efforts to educate the public and reduce stigma.
“Currently, there is no indication that the mpox virus will significantly impact or pose a direct threat to the upcoming AAD Expo.
“The low number of active cases and the high recovery rate indicate that the situation is under control. We are closely monitoring developments to ensure the safety of all participants,” said AAD Exhibition Director, Nakedi Phasha.
Organisers have since reassured expo visitors that there is no need to panic.
“South African health authorities have effectively managed similar outbreaks in the past and continue to employ effective strategies, such as isolation, contact tracing, and appropriate medical treatment, to contain the virus. By following public health advice and maintaining awareness, the risk of a broader outbreak remains low.”
Meanwhile, the organisers said they are committed to ensuring a safe and successful event for everyone involved.
“The AAD Expo 2024 will proceed with all necessary precautions in place, and we are confident that, with your cooperation, we can enjoy a productive and memorable experience.”
According to the Department of Health, mpox presents with a range of symptoms that can vary in severity.
The symptoms often appear within seven to 14 days after exposure but can take up to 21 days to manifest.
“If you notice symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, and especially the characteristic rash associated with mpox, it is crucial to isolate yourself immediately and seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis. Early isolation and treatment are key to preventing the spread of the virus and ensuring your health and safety.”
The department has urged people who experience any of the mpox symptoms, with or without international travel history to present themselves to a health facility for clinical observation and confine themselves to one place until their test results are available.
Meanwhile, to address the mpox outbreak in Africa, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has set up a 25-member incident management unit to support affected and at-risk countries.
Africa CDC has signed a partnership agreement with the European Commission’s Health Emergency
Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) and Bavarian Nordic to provide over 215 000 doses of the MVA-BN vaccine.
Africa CDC will oversee the equitable distribution of these vaccines, prioritising local needs across the affected Member States. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 14:37
Alani Ferreira broke two more African records at the Paralympics in Paris on Thursday. The visually impaired swimmer finished third in her morning heat of the SB12 100m breaststroke to set a new continental mark of 1:21.95 and then went even quicker in the evening final. While the World Championships bronze medallist was hoping to …
Live shows at the Joseph Stone Auditorium in Athlone, at 8pm each night, 20th, 21st, 27th and 28th September 2024. The show on 24 September (Heritage Day) takes place at 12pm. Celebrated Capetonian cultural musical production, JIVE CULTURE SHOCK, returns this September for yet another electrifying experience – celebrating the talents of Cape minstrels and …
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and assistant coach Mzwandile Stick set their sights firmly on trying to clinch the Freedom Cup for the first time since 2009 when they line up against New Zealand in the Castle Lager Rugby Championship at DHL Stadium in Cape Town on Saturday, and both expected an epic 80-minute battle. Apart …
In a market characterised by intense competition and financial constraints, introducing a new brand of SUV is daring, but newly appointed Vice President for Jetour in South Africa, Nic Campbell, says that the brand is poised to establish a new standard of excellence in the local automotive industry. Campbell has been in the motoring trade …
Law enforcement commended for R20 million copper recovery
KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has commended law enforcement agencies for the arrest of a 59-year-old suspect linked to the theft of copper worth over R20 million.
The stolen copper was recovered this week from a scrapyard on Martin Drive in Queensburgh, south-west of Durban.
Buthelezi said every year, criminal syndicates cause hundreds of millions of rands in damage to public infrastructure that provides essential services, including water, electricity and sanitation.
“These criminals sell the stolen metals to unscrupulous scrapyard dealers, severely hampering municipalities' ability to serve their communities. We are pleased to see that law enforcement is gaining the upper hand in the fight against these criminals who perpetuate economic sabotage through their actions,” Buthelezi said.
Buthelezi emphasised the importance of community involvement in combating these crimes and urged the public to work closely with law enforcement by reporting any suspicious activities.
“The fight against crime is a collective effort. We need the eyes and ears of our communities to help us protect our public assets,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 13:53
Police working hard to trace rape suspect targeting learners
The police in Tonga, Mpumalanga, are working hard to trace a rape suspect who targets learners as they travel to school.
Two learners, aged 16 and 17, were reportedly raped by an armed suspect on their way to school at Mzinti on Monday morning.
According to information, the two victims had to attend to an early class when they met the suspect.
Police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, said the suspect allegedly took the learners to the nearby bushes at gunpoint then raped them both. They were then allegedly threatened to be killed should they report the incident.
“On arrival at school, the learners bravely reported the matter to their teacher. Police were in turn informed where two counts of rape were opened,” Mdhluli said.
The Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit has been assigned to probe the incident.
Police have urged learners to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings when they walk in secluded areas to and from school.
“Parents are also encouraged to give all the support needed to their children so as to prevent incidents that may compromise their safety,” Mdhluli said.
Members of the public who might see anything suspicious or have information that may assist in apprehending the suspect are urged to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or send information via MYSAPSAPP.
Mdhluli assured that all received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi reassured the public that the team, including skilled SAPS members, are working around the clock to ensure that the perpetrator is swiftly brought to book.
"We will not tolerate a situation whereby learners become terrified to go to school. As the police, we have intensified our efforts and, working in collaboration with community structures, we will soon make a breakthrough in this matter. Our aspiration is to corner the suspect before he can prey on another victim,” Mkhwanazi said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 12:08
Justice Minister appears before Parliamentary Committee on VBS allegations
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, says she did not have any improper relationship with a contractor appointed by the Polokwane Municipality.
Last week, allegations surfaced in the media that Simelane, while she was Mayor of Polokwane Municipality in Limpopo, received at least R575 000 in a loan from a company intimately linked to VBS bank.
“I did not have any improper relationship with the contractor appointed by the municipality. Mayors are never involved…in procurement. The work of appointment of a service provider is the responsibility of the executives in the municipality.
“[Gundo Wealth] were appointed to provide services through a procurement process and this was done through committees of council. I did not receive any improper benefits from the contractor,” she said.
The Minister appeared before Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development to present clarity on allegations of impropriety on her part related to VBS Mutual Bank.
On the issue of whether or not there is a conflict of interest in her position as Minister and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) – which is prosecuting the VBS Mutual Bank saga – the Minister said the department plays no role in the decision-making of the NPA on who to prosecute or not.
“The office I hold does not have a direct relationship in instructing or convincing the NPA on how to act on their mandate.
“On the matter of taking the loan, I have dealt with the conflict of taking the loan. My understanding is that, if you ask for assistance on someone who doesn’t have a direct bearing or payment with the municipality, it is possible and I repaid it,” she said.
Simelane explained that the loan was for a business that would create wealth for herself and family after she leaves public office.
“Political positions by their very nature are short term and necessitated me to investigate a feasibility [study] of commencing such a business and a coffee shop seemed a feasible option so that I could create an employment opportunity for myself and my next of kin.
“I made this consideration…to ensure that I have an alternative when the public office life comes to an end,” she said.
The Minister said she had initially intended to partially withdraw from her retirement savings to fund the coffee shop but the “percentage of tax made the idea not feasible”.
“I asked Gundo for advice on any other idea on how best I could get finance and I was advised against the withdrawal of the retirement savings. In those discussions, Gundo then informed me and advised of a loan product that they have that I could access.
“In consideration for the options…there existed no conflict in my view is securing a loan from Gundo. I took a decision to proceed with the business,” Simelane said.
She added that the loan was repaid over three instalments.
Treasury steps in
Simelane told the committee that as the beginning of the decline of VBS Mutual Bank began to set in, National Treasury told municipalities that it was a breach of regulations to invest in mutual banks.
The Minister said she had already taken steps to ensure that the municipality withdraws from VBS, even before the directive from Treasury.
“[On] the advice of technical experts within the municipality, myself as the mayor, instituted the withdrawal of Polokwane Municipality from VBS. My attitude at the time was, if there was anything improper with regard to municipality funds, it must be stopped,” she said.
A Treasury-led investigation into municipal investments at the bank began after that – a process the Minister insists she “fully participated” in. This was followed by a report.
“That report didn’t spare me as the Executive Mayor from corrective measures. The…sanction to us was to either go to University of Pretoria or University of Witwatersrand which are the only ones that offers…a programme which is designed by National Treasury which is called Municipal Management [Programme].
“I took this corrective measure very seriously [and] commenced with my studies the following year when universities opened. I concluded this programme…after I was no longer a mayor, when I was a Deputy Minister,” she said.
Turning back to the matter between the municipality, her loan and VBS Mutual Bank, Simelane re-emphasised that she received no improper benefits.
“[I] affirm that one: there was no improper relationship. I requested for a loan, a loan was advanced.” –SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 12:14
Minister Gwarube in talks to enhance education sector
Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, has held meetings with various international partners to reinforce South Africa's commitment to enhancing the education sector through global collaboration.
In a statement, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) said these discussions which were held at the departmental offices in Pretoria, emphasised the critical role of international partnerships in advancing the country's educational objectives.
Minister Gwarube met with Andreas Schleicher, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Director for Education and Skills, to discuss the Joint Work Programme (JWP) between South Africa and the OECD.
The JWP, aligned to South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP), supports initiatives in early childhood education, career development and curriculum standards.
“The meeting also covered South Africa’s participation in the 2024 Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS), which offers insights into teacher development and education trends.
Additionally, the OECD offered support for South Africa’s Education Working Group during its G20 Presidency in 2025,” the department said.
In her meeting with UNICEF country representative, Christine Muhigana, Minister Gwarube discussed UNICEF’s collaboration with the DBE.
Key focus areas included Early Childhood Development (ECD), quality basic education and adolescent development.
“UNICEF has played a significant role in supporting South Africa’s efforts to improve ECD, boosting educational outcomes and empowering adolescents, particularly girls, in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). The partnership also aims to strengthen teaching practices and promote skills for the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” the department said.
Minister Gwarube also met with the European Union (EU) Ambassador, Sandra Kramer, to discuss partnerships with South Africa particularly in the field of education.
The EU has supported South Africa’s education sector through the General Budget Support (GBS) approach since 2009, aligning funding with national priorities.
“This partnership has notably improved literacy, numeracy and technology education, especially in Grades 7 to 9. The Minister expressed her gratitude for the EU’s 30 years of support whilst highlighting the importance of continued collaboration,” the DBE said.
The Minister also met with Japanese Ambassador, Ushio Shigeru and JICA Chief Representative, Kaoru Okada, to discuss the long-standing partnership between the DBE and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
“This collaboration, which commenced in 2012, focuses on improving Mathematics, Science and Technology (MST) education. The Minister sought an extension for JICA to finalise the National Mathematics Improvement Plan and acknowledged Japan’s assistance in rebuilding schools damaged by the 2021 floods in the KwaZulu-Natal Province,” the DBE said.
The ongoing meetings have highlighted South Africa’s ongoing commitment to leveraging international partnerships to enhance its education system and address the needs of all learners in a rapidly changing world. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 12:31
KwaMashu and North Coast lines not operational
Police making significant progress in dealing with construction mafia, says DP Mashatile
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has taken significant steps to deal with construction mafia through a coordinated and multi-disciplinary response to criminal activities.
“Investigative capacity has been established to address extortion and violence at construction sites across the country, with a particular focus on KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape and other areas where similar problems have been reported,” said Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
The Deputy President was engaging Members of Parliament (MPs) in the National Assembly on matters related to his delegated responsibilities.
In March this year, the Deputy President addressed the Criminal Justice System Review Conference where, amongst other important matters, criminality in the construction sector was highlighted.
“When delivering the keynote address, I stated the following: ‘Murderous construction mafia have brought many companies to their knees, and we must fight back to safeguard this industry’.”
Mashatile believes that a concerted effort from all is necessary to unravel the complex web of construction site disruptions, which endanger lives and impede government’s objectives of transforming the nation into a massive construction site that generates employment and expands the economy.
He told MPs that the police have partnered with various stakeholders, including State-owned entities (SOEs), government departments, private security companies and civil society to enhance their efforts in combating these criminal networks.
Mashatile reiterated government's, commitment to addressing this challenge through the introduction of policies that will curtail and eliminate mafia in the construction sector.
These include the National Infrastructure Plan, the Critical Infrastructure Programme, the Social Facilitation Programme, and the Infrastructure Built Anti-Corruption Forum.
The Infrastructure Built Anti-Corruption Forum (IBACF), the Deputy President said, was another intervention that is yielding positive results in stopping criminal activities by the so-called “construction mafia”.
He explained that the IBACF was formed in 2020 and is aimed at monitoring infrastructure projects and putting systems in place to detect and prevent corruption.
The forum comprises civil society, representatives from the built environment, and various arms of government, including the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).
In addition, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, through the application of the Social Facilitation Concept which was approved by Cabinet in 2021 is conducting pilot projects like the Salvokop Precinct Strategic Infrastructure Project (SIP), which serves as a test case for integrating social facilitation into construction practices.
He explained that lessons learned will help further calibrate the framework.
“Given all the interventions I have outlined above, the challenge remains that the actual number of crimes committed by these mafias may be underreported, as witnesses and victims are often reluctant to come forward.
“It is crucial for communities, organisations, and businesses to work together with the South African Police Service to bring these criminals to justice.”
Meanwhile, he said top-class detective and crime intelligence work must be intensified to produce airtight prosecutions and see these crime bosses evicted, locked up and their proceeds of crime seized.
“The impact of these construction mafia on our nation’s development cannot be underestimated. The existence and activities of construction mafia significantly undermine the concept of a developmental State, as envisioned in the National Development Plan 2030.”
The Deputy President told Parliamentarians that these criminal organisations pose serious threats to public safety and the integrity of construction projects, which are essential for driving economic growth and development.
“As government, at all levels, we are committed to addressing this issue through independent investigations and partnerships with organisations like Business Against Crime South Africa, but most importantly with civil society organisations who live around and know these criminals.
“Let us stand together in the fight against these criminal organisations and work towards a safer and more prosperous South Africa for all living in it.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 09:58
Police seize counterfeit goods worth more than R94 million
The National Counterfeit Goods Unit has led multiple intelligence driven takedown operations that has led to the arrest of five people and the seizing of counterfeit goods worth more than R94 million.
In a statement on Thursday, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said it along with its crime fighting partners, remain relentless in efforts to disrupt and dislodge illicit trade in counterfeit and contraband goods.
The teams comprised of various internal and external stakeholders that included, among others; SAPS members from various specialised units, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI – “Hawks”), Department of Home Affairs, South African Revenue Services (SARS), Traffic, Metro Police Departments and Brand Protectors as well as force multipliers such as private security companies.
On 16 August 2024, police found and seized counterfeit clothing and sneakers worth over R37 million in a self-storage facility in Gauteng’s Doornfontein.
On 25 August 2024, police also seized counterfeit goods that included sneakers, clothing, watches and backpacks worth more than R41 million at a shopping centre in Bellville, Western Cape.
“On 29 August 2024, counterfeit sanitary pads, deodorants and other consumables worth over R4.8 million were seized at a self-storage facility in Mayfair, Johannesburg.
“On the same day, counterfeit sanitary pads, hair extensions, toothbrushes and other consumables worth over R9.3 million were seized at a small holding in Bredell, Kempton Park, Gauteng.
“The team also seized branded packaging, labels, machinery and other equipment used to manufacture counterfeit goods. Five Malawian nationals were also arrested for the contravention of both the Counterfeit Goods Act and the Immigration Act,” the statement read.
Furthermore, on 2 September 2024, police seized counterfeit shoe polish, deodorant, toothbrushes and other consumables worth over R2 million at a self-storage facility in Bonaero Park, Benoni.
“Police will continue to combat the illicit trade in counterfeit goods, protecting legitimate businesses and consumers who are subjected to substandard products that pose health and safety risks,” the SAPS said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 10:29
Mayor welcomes re-opening of the Hilton Hotel in Durban
eThekwini Municipality mayor, Cyril Xaba, has welcomed the re-opening of the Hilton Hotel Durban, which will significantly benefit the City’s tourism economy.
Xaba noted that the reopening of the hotel is timely as it comes at the start of Tourism Month, which is celebrated annually in September.
“The hotel’s re-opening will add to the luxury executive accommodation inventory of Durban. The phased re-opening of the hotel will also strategically amplify the city’s business case when bidding to host national and international conferences,” the mayor said.
Apart from enhancing the tourism experience for visitors in the city, Xaba said the re-opening of the hotel will contribute to job creation.
"The Hilton Hotel is also a great added advantage for the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC), which is situated near the hotel.
“When the Durban ICC conducts their product promotion, it will be characterised by the easy accessibility to prestigious accommodation which further instils business travel confidence.
“The convenient accessibility is also an advantage for dignitaries and high security risk patrons as there is no long-distance travel as all business travel purpose facilities are within easy reach. We are excited that our drive to attract investment in the city, through our Inner-City Regeneration Programme [which] is beginning to yield positive results,” he said.
The Hilton is situated in a prime location of the city’s business tourism meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions precinct.
This is where the Durban ICC and the Durban Exhibition Centre are conveniently housed.
Registration for the Durban Business Fair opens
Meanwhile, the eThekwini Municipality has reminded small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) to register to exhibit at the upcoming South regional Durban Business Fair (DBF).
To revitalise township economies, eThekwini Municipality said the city is reviving the regional Durban Business Fairs, which has been hailed for their important role of showcasing area-based business products, empowering entrepreneurs with skills and availing networking opportunities.
Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, Thembo Ntuli said SMMEs are pillars of the city’s economy and drive job creation.
“Unlocking rural and township economic growth remains an integral part of our strategy to promote inclusive economic growth and create more jobs. It is therefore practical to create and coordinate programmes that promote entrepreneurship and small business growth to upscale the revitalisation of rural and township economies,” Ntuli said.
Exhibitor registration for the DBF which will take place from 25 to 27 October 2024, at KwaMnyandu Shopping Centre, is now open.
To book to showcase at this signature business exhibition, register before the deadline of 30 September 2024.
The registration form can be found on the link: https://bit.ly/SouthForm, or email admin@lomes.co.za and request a form.
Alternatively, registration forms can be collected from the security desk at the Embassy Building, 199 Anton Lembede Street.
You can also download the forms from the eThekwini Municipality website: www.durban.gov.za browse under government tab and scroll down to the Durban Business Fair sub-tab.
For more information, the business community can call 031 266 9938. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 09:57
The ability to deliver a competitive performance at next year’s Rugby World Cup remains the end goal for the Springbok Women and although that is still almost a year away, Byrhandré Dolf insists their first step on that road needs to be decisive. Their very first hurdle in that road comes on Saturday in Cape …
SA increases imports to China
Beijing, China - With the agreements that South Africa has signed with China in relation to trade, the country will see an increase in the imports of agricultural and manufactured products to China.
“We were able to sign eight agreements, many of which have to do with increased trade between the two countries and that has led to the opening up of the Chinese market for South African products, particularly with regards to beef,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Thursday in Beijing, China.
Addressing members of the media on the conclusion of his visit to the People’s Republic of China, Ramaphosa said the importation of beef into the Chinese market kept fluctuating as a number of areas in South Africa were affected by livestock diseases such as foot and mouth disease.
“That is a great achievement because it will lead to the increase of our agricultural products coming into China and we should see increased production in South Africa. Whenever such an occurrence would happen, they would ban the whole country, and we were able to reach an agreement that if there is an outbreak of foot and mouth disease it would just be restricted to one area in the country.
“That is a great achievement because it will lead to the increase of our agricultural products coming into China and we should see increased production in South Africa.
“The other area is for manufactured goods and products, to have an easier entry into China. With the agreement that we signed we were able to ensure that China would enable more manufactured goods from South Africa to be brought in. That for us is an important development,” the President said.
Agreements
He noted that China has achieved enormous development in technological development.
“We were able to reach an agreement on science, technology and innovation in terms of cooperation in relation to innovation research and we were able to have good discussions.
“We were able to reach agreements on aspects of our energy security. South Africa has been going through a huge challenge of energy security. China’s assistance in this regard is going to stand us in good stead so therefore our other objective was achieved.
“We also wanted enhanced cooperation on international issues in relation to our cooperation in BRICS is consolidated and solidified and in other multilateral organisations such as the United Nations and financial institutions that there needs to be reforms,” the President explained.
Relations with China
He said at a state level, South Africa has achieved a great deal during the visit to China.
“Our visit has been hugely successful. We will see a lot of progress in the country in developing our relationship with China, remembering that China is the second largest economy in the world. For us as South Africa it is important for us to promote our relations with China.
“China is our biggest trading partner, and we want an all-round cooperative strategic partnership in the new era to take it to a higher level. President Xi Jinping is at pains when he talks about not having enough manufactured goods from South Africa. He wants to see more goods in China from South Africa.”
To this end, President Xi opened the Chinese market for African countries to come and exploit the Chinese market.
“As the most industrialised country on the continent South Africa stands to benefit immensely from this relationship. This is an important market for us as South Africans. This is a county that is willing to deal with us at a very serious, economic and political level.
“This is an important market, and we have seen increased trade between our two countries. At the moment, the trade is imbalanced and in favour of China, rather than in our favour and it is this that we are focusing on, to correct that imbalance.
“That is why we welcome the opening up of the Chinese market for more and more finished goods from South Africa.
“We want to upgrade that economic activity to a higher level, so we are able to bring in more finished mineral goods, products or commodities into China and more finished agricultural products,” the President said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 05:41
Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, explores the link between hormones and belly fat. “According to Harvard Health, belly fat is more than just a cosmetic concern. It’s a serious health risk,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “Various factors contribute to the buildup of belly fat, with hormones playing a …
Vhembe District Municipality says repairs to faulty boreholes across Elim will be done by end September
Interim interdict stopped the UIF’s new service provider from rendering IT services