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Kuzuko Lodge: A Serene Retreat in Nqweba (formerly Kirkwood)
Nestled in the picturesque town of Nqweba, formerly known as Kirkwood, lies the enchanting Kuzuko Lodge. This tranquil retreat offers a unique blend of luxury, wildlife, and breathtaking natural beauty. With its rich history and proximity to the renowned Addo Elephant National Park, Kuzuko Lodge is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers… Read More »
Event Info: Flavour Fest at Capegate Shopping Centre: A Culinary Delight in Cape Town
Flavour Fest, the much-anticipated culinary event at Capegate Shopping Centre in Cape Town, is set to delight food enthusiasts with a diverse range of flavours, aromas, and experiences. This annual event celebrates the vibrant food culture of the region, showcasing local and international cuisines, artisanal products, and culinary innovations. A Gastronomic Extravaganza Visitors to Flavour […]
Immigration officer slammed by judges after Ethiopian asylum seeker attempts suicide
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Event Info: Ticketing Platforms for Event Tickets: A Comprehensive Overview
In today’s digital age, purchasing event tickets has become easier than ever. With the advent of ticketing platforms, individuals can conveniently browse, select, and purchase tickets for a wide range of events, from concerts and sports games to theater performances and conferences. These platforms not only provide a seamless ticket-buying experience but also offer valuable […]
Widow’s shack demolished six times since September
100 shacks demolished by JMPD in Rabie Ridge on Saturday
The Presidency announces recipients of National Orders
The Presidency announces recipients of National Orders
The Chancellor of the National Orders, Director-General in the Presidency, Phindile Baleni, has announced the recipients of National Orders.
On Tuesday, Baleni made public the names of South Africans and foreign nationals, who will be awarded National Orders at a prestigious ceremony on 30 April 2024.
The National Orders are the highest awards that South Africa, through the President, bestows on citizens and well-known foreign nationals, who have contributed towards the advancement of democracy and who have significantly impacted the lives of South Africans.
The awards also recognise the contributions made by individuals who contributed and continue to contribute to building a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous South Africa, as envisaged in the Constitution.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will bestow on deserving recipients the Order of Mendi for Bravery, the Order of Ikhamanga, the Order of the Baobab, the Order of Luthuli, the Order of Mapungubwe, and the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo.
The Order of Mendi
The Order of Mendi for Bravery recognises South African citizens who have performed acts of bravery.
The Order of Mendi in Silver recipients:
Mawilliams Kekana (posthumously): For her generosity and courageous act of sheltering freedom fighters when it was illegal to align with revolutionaries. She offered her house as a haven for liberation stalwarts against the hostile security police.
Ignatius ‘Iggy’ Mthebule (posthumously): For his gallant fight against an unjust system of apartheid. He is among many lost sons and daughters, whose demise in the hands of security police remains unknown, as he disappeared without a trace. This was at the height of political upheaval, where opposition was brutally silenced. Despite his disappearance, he left an indelible mark of courage and leadership.
Makhwezi McDonald Mtulu (posthumously): For his excellent contribution to the liberation of the people of South Africa. He responded to the brave call to join the military wing of the ANC forsaking the safety of his home to the fight for freedom and died in the process of executing the armed struggle.
Robert Anthony Basil Waterwitch (posthumously): For courageously pushing back against the oppressive system of the apartheid government. He ultimately lost his life for the ideals of freedom in the middle of the war against racism and inequality.
Coline Denise Williams (posthumously): For courageously pushing back against the oppressive system of the apartheid government. She ultimately lost her life for the ideals of freedom in the middle of the war against racism and inequality.
The Order of Ikhamanga
The Order of Ikhamanga recognises South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport.
The Order of Ikhamanga in Gold recipients:
Nontando ‘Noni’ Helen Jabuva (posthumously): For her excellent contribution to the field of journalism and scholarship on the liberation struggle. Her affinity for history and storytelling through journalism informed and enlightened the nation.
Aggrey Klaaste (posthumously): For his exceptional contribution to quality journalism and as a reporter exposing the cruelties of apartheid and encouraging unity among the people of different political persuasions to fight for liberation. He was a nation-builder with a vision for an equal and thriving society.
Madala Muzwakhe Kunene: For his exceptional contribution to the arts, especially jazz music, using home-brewed sounds that are unique to South Africa. He has collaborated with some of the best talents in our country.
The Order of Ikhamanga in Silver recipients:
Agnus Gibson: For his contribution to filmmaking. He strived to provide a haven for black artists at a time when discrimination was normalised and practised with impunity. His collaborations produced iconic narratives of South African history and youth culture.
Emile Lester Jansen: For his contribution to the field of arts and hip-hop culture in South Africa. His artistry and activism formulated a unique lexicon now firmly known as Afrikaap, explaining the African origins of hip-hop.
Saray Nkusi Khumalo: For being an inspiring way-maker for many women through her quest of summiting seven mountains while raising funds. She inspires every African child to pursue what may seem to be impossible dreams.
Sophie Msoziswa Mahlangu: For her excellent contribution to the development of indigenous Ndebele arts. Her commitment to passing on knowledge to younger generations is commendable; she has become a bridge connecting generations.
Madosini Latozi Mphahleni (posthumously): For her exceptional service in preserving and elevating indigenous South African musical traditions. In a rapidly changing world, she stood as a guardian of these ancient sounds, ensuring they were not forgotten. Her commitment to passing on her knowledge to younger generations was unmatched, safeguarding the nation's identity and cultural heritage.
Trevor Dundas Mweli Skota (posthumously): For his contribution to the promotion of black African knowledge through his trailblazing work, including a biographical dictionary of notable black figures on the continent.
The Order of the Baobab
The Order of the Baobab recognises South African citizens who have contributed to community service, business and economy, science, medicine and technological innovation.
The Order of the Baobab in Gold recipients:
Blanche Valeria La Guma (posthumously): For her courageous fight for social justice and equality for all South Africans. She lived by the courage of her convictions and fought for the rights of workers and the liberation of the oppressed.
Zukiswa Patricia Matolengwe: For her commitment to realising social justice for the homeless and downtrodden using ingenious means of stokvels for financial empowerment. Her tireless work in providing dignified living space for the homeless is laudable.
The Order of Luthuli
The Order of Luthuli recognises South African citizens who have contributed to the struggle for democracy, nation-building, building democracy and human rights, justice and peace as well as for the resolution of conflict.
The Order of Luthuli in Gold recipients:
Mxolisi ‘Dicky’ Jacobs (posthumously): For his ultimate sacrifice to the struggle for liberation. His life ended by defending the principles of a just and equal society. Although his life was cut short, he remains a towering stalwart of the struggle who laid down his life for the liberation of his people.
Peter Cyril Jones (posthumously): For his courageous contribution in mobilising communities across the length and breadth of South Africa. He was one of the leading lights advocating for the Black Consciousness message of self-reliance, pride and self-affirmation for the oppressed people.
Benjamin Langa (posthumously): For his ultimate sacrifice for equality and social justice in South Africa. He endured unimaginable pain and remained loyal to the cause until the end. His legacy remains a beacon of light and inspiration to many.
Thobekile ‘Tobsy’ Madaka (posthumously): For his gallant fight against the oppression of our people. He fearlessly spoke truth to power and eventually gave his life for the democracy of South Africa. He lived by the courage of his convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime.
Siphiwo Mthimkhulu (posthumously): For his gallant fight against the oppression of our people. His fearlessness and leadership belied his age as he boldly confronted the forces of oppression and eventually gave his life for the democracy of South Africa. He lived by the courage of his convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime.
Prof Harry Ranwedzi Nengwekhulu: For his gallant fight for the liberation of the people of South Africa. He has straddled academia and political activism with the goal of a free South Africa always in his mind and has served as a source of inspiration for many Black Consciousness activists and others.
Kenneth Rachidi (posthumously): For his courage to face a repressive government and resist its unjust laws that promoted inequality. He lived by the ethics of Black Consciousness. His activism and vocal opposition to oppression remain a legacy and inspiration to South Africans.
Annie Silinga (posthumously): For her commitment to the liberation struggle. She played a leading role in some of the liberation campaigns. She continued to campaign against passes at national and local events.
Nokuthula Simelane (posthumously): For her incredible bravery in the face of brutal security operatives. She lived by the courage of her convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime. Her ultimate sacrifice for the liberation of all South Africans will remain in the annals of our nation’s history.
The Order of Mapungubwe
The Order of Mapungubwe recognises South Africans who have accomplished excellence and exceptional achievement to the benefit of South Africa and beyond.
The Order of Mapungubwe in Silver:
Prof Mulalo Doyoyo (posthumously): For his enormous contribution to academia and research in the field of aerospace. His outstanding work continues to open doors. The sciences have been enhanced by his participation and young aspirant scientists looked up to him as a mentor.
The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo
The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recognises eminent foreign nationals and other foreign dignitaries for friendship shown to South Africa. It is therefore an order of peace, cooperation and active expression of solidarity and support.
The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recipients:
Huub Bammens from the Netherlands: For his contribution to promoting awareness of human rights violations by the South African apartheid government to the world via Radio Freedom. His technical skills were used to build studios for the liberation movement.
Donna Katzin from the United States: For her innovative thinking in assisting post-apartheid South African businesses get ethical investments by promoting networking between South African businesses and American investors.
Ken Luckhard from Canada: For his selfless service to South Africa through anti-apartheid activism. He organised a mass disruptive protest against a visiting English cricket team that had links with apartheid sport.
Nicholas Stadlen from the United Kingdom: For his steadfast standing with the South African liberation movement at a time when it was not convenient to do so. He believed in equality and supported exiles as a friend of South Africa.
Fulco van Aurich from the Netherlands: For his contribution to promoting awareness of human rights violations by the South African apartheid government to the world via Radio Freedom. He organised and developed a campaign in the Netherlands to support Radio Freedom.
Brenda Wall from Canada: For her selfless service to South Africa through anti-apartheid activism; she organised a mass disruptive protest against a visiting English cricket team that had links with apartheid sport.
“We congratulate the recipients and call on all South Africans to join us in celebrating these outstanding South Africans and distinguished friends of South Africa,” Baleni said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 11:31
717 views
Event Info: A Comprehensive Guide to Free Calendar Event Sites
In today’s digital age, finding the right platform to promote and list your events is crucial for success. Fortunately, there are numerous free calendar event sites available that offer free listings of events. These platforms provide a convenient way to reach a wider audience and increase the visibility of your events. In this article, we […]
Pavilion Home Affairs office hailed as a game-changer
Pavilion Home Affairs office hailed as a game-changer
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube says the opening of a Home Affairs office at the Pavilion Shopping Centre in Westville, Durban, is a game-changer in how government provides services to the citizens.
Dube-Ncube joined Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, to officially open the new Home Affairs office at the Pavilion Shopping Centre as part of the department’s ongoing efforts to make services easily accessible to the public.
The new office will offer application and collections services for IDs and passports. Clients will have the convenience of applying for these services as they do their shopping at the centre.
Dube-Ncube said the initiative aims to revolutionise citizen services, emphasising convenience, dignity, and efficiency.
“The office will bring services closer to where our people shop, bank, eat, stay, play and work. For us, first and foremost, this office will bring dignity to our people,” Dube-Ncube said.
The Premier said the strategic location of the office at the shopping centre is expected to alleviate the burden of long queues experienced at other Home Affairs offices in uMngeni, Pinetown and the Durban city centre.
“By integrating government services into everyday spaces that people already frequent, the initiative aims to streamline processes and enhance the overall experience for citizens. Moreover, the presence of a government office within a bustling shopping centre is poised to redefine the public's perception of and interaction with government services.
“To have a government office in a shopping centre will change how people perceive and interact with government and it will bring efficiency and agility. By embracing innovation and adapting to contemporary needs, the initiative seeks to foster a culture of responsiveness and accessibility within the public sector,” Dube-Ncube said.
WATCH | Opening of the Pavilion Shopping Centre Home Affairs office
Motsoaledi reiterated that the department wants to ensure that it brings services to the people where they are.
“We promised Parliament that we are going to expand the platforms where South Africans receive Home Affairs services. One of those platforms is to expand to malls,” Motsoaledi said.
The opening of Home Affairs office follows the launch of offices at Menlyn Shopping Centre at Pretoria East in March 2023, and Cresta in April 2024.
READ | Home Affairs opens three offices this Saturday
In his 2023 Budget Vote Speech, Motsoaledi announced that his department wants to create multiple platforms to assist people with applications for their IDs, passports, and other essential documents. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 12:03
530 views
President Ramaphosa sets sights on five million EPWP jobs in next five years
President Ramaphosa sets sights on five million EPWP jobs in next five years
President Cyril Ramaphosa believes that the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) remains a critical policy instrument to tackle unemployment and reduce poverty as government grapples with high levels of joblessness.
The President has since pledged on behalf of government to improve the EPWP and to deliver five million work opportunities in the next five years.
President Ramaphosa was speaking on Tuesday at the 20-Year celebration of the EPWP and launch of Phase 5 of the programme in Buffalo City Municipality, Eastern Cape.
The President painted the EPWP as a success story that has empowered communities to address local needs and build resilience.
The country’s commander-in-chief said since 2004, the programme has created more than 14 million work opportunities across the EPWP sectors, with more than 300 public bodies across all spheres of government and non-profit organisations (NGOs) as implementing agents.
WATCH |
“The EPWP is changing lives and transforming communities, and the evidence is there for all to see,” President Ramaphosa told the crowd.
Through the EPWP infrastructure projects, President Ramaphosa said Welisizwe Rural Bridges are constructed and maintained to create better access to markets, schools and clinics.
READ | Zikalala announces construction of over 100 Welisizwe bridges
Beneficiaries include those cleaning streets and beaches, and those involved in Early Childhood Development (ECD), community home-based care, school feeding and community crime prevention.
According to the President, some of the beneficiaries have gone on to be trained as emergency response personnel in the South African Police (SAPS) and even qualified as pilots.
While there are many achievements, President Ramaphosa urged government to use the 20-year milestone as a springboard for even greater achievements in the years to come.
“We must build not only on lessons from the EPWP but also from the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which has, over the last few years, demonstrated that public employment can go to significantly greater levels of scale.”
However, he acknowledged that the quality of work experience and service delivered to the communities needed to be improved.
According to the President, government also needs to mobilise the nation behind a revitalised portfolio of public employment programmes.
This, he said, will include urgent service delivery priorities such as road upgrading through pothole patching and block paving, and infrastructure maintenance.
VIEW | Celebration of 20 years of the EPWP
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The President is of the view that public employment can also assist in tackling social challenges, such as gender-based violence (GBV) and substance abuse.
The programme will also support tackling clean energy installation and catchment management to improve water quality and limit the risks of floods.
President Ramaphosa said it could also help in the digitisation of public records and give young people a first step into this growing sector of the economy.
Deepening youth participation
The President believes that the EPWP Phase 5 will rise to the challenge by increasing youth participation and strengthening skills development.
“As we enter this new phase, we must reiterate that there can be no space for corruption, nepotism or favouritism. Effective and fair recruitment practices must be applied.”
He called on social partners and the private sector to work with the State during Phase 5 to lend a hand in creating jobs and work opportunities for South Africa’s youth, women and people with disabilities.
“Working together through public and social employment programmes and by providing support for small enterprises and cooperatives, we can create more jobs at a much faster pace while improving the delivery of basic services.”
The President has vowed to continue to expand public employment through the EPWP, the Presidential Employment Stimulus, the National Youth Service, and others.
In addition, he stated that government will assist civil society organisations that are creating work opportunities.
The Head of State also promised to back entrepreneurship and job creation by increasing support for small enterprises and cooperatives in townships and villages.
“We will continue to prioritise young people in public employment programmes, in work-based learning programmes, in artisan training and entrepreneurship programmes.”
He assured the young South African men and women that government will not leave them behind.
“We are determined to reach you, one and all, to help you and to support you. This is the promise of democracy and freedom,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 14:17
493 views
Event Info: Exploring the Vibrant South African Music Scene
South Africa is known for its rich and diverse musical landscape, where artists from various genres captivate audiences both locally and internationally. Among the plethora of talented musicians that hail from this culturally rich country, several standout artists have made a significant impact on the music industry. In this article, we delve into the lives […]
Twenty-four Giyani villages expected to have running water by June
Twenty-four Giyani villages expected to have running water by June
The Department of Water and Sanitation says all 24 villages, which are part of Phase 1 of Giyani Water Projects, are expected to have running water from their taps by the end of June this year.
“While some of the villages are receiving water from their taps and some have not, the department anticipates that all of the 24 villages will have water running from their taps by the end of June.
"The remaining 31 villages will be part of Phase 2 of Giyani Water Projects and its reticulation is expected to start in this new financial year,” Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu said this week.
Mchunu, who is currently traversing various villages in Giyani to inspect progress on the Phase 1 of the reticulation component of the Giyani Water Project, has expressed satisfaction with the progress made to restore water supply and extend yard connection services to 55 villages in Giyani in the Mopani District Municipality, Limpopo.
READ | Giyani water project is still on course
The project is funded by the Department of Water and Sanitation and implemented by the Mopani District Municipality as the Water Services Authority.
Mchunu said the remaining components of the Giyani Water Project to be completed include the refurbishment of Giyani Water Treatment Works, bulk pipeline, and water reticulation projects, which is an extended service from communal taps to metered yard connections for the 55 villages.
He said 24 of the 55 villages currently have taps installed in their yards, with some already receiving water.
VIEW | Oversight visit to Giyani water project
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The 24 villages in Phase 1 include, Thomo A and B, KaMninginisi, Mhlaba Willem, Homu 14 A and B, Mapayeni, N’waKhuwani, Ngove A, B and C, Gawula, Mahlathi, Bambeni, Mageva, Sikhunyani, Maphata, Xikukwani, Makoxa, Dzingidzingi and Bode, among others.
Mchunu said construction in some villages to connect bulk pipeline to local reservoirs, including the refurbishments of existing reservoirs and installation of elevated steel tanks is underway.
Despite delays in the project, Mchunu acknowledged the plans implemented by the municipality, which led to unblocking project delays.
“I am satisfied with the work currently underway, although we are behind schedule due to the history of this project. However, the level of commitment demonstrated by the contractors has showed that we are making progress in getting water to the people’s households.
“This indeed signals a new era of ensuring that households in rural and urban areas have access to clean, fresh water in their homes. We are determined to provide equal quality service to all the residents of the country,” Mchunu said.
Accompanied by his Deputy Ministers, David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, and Limpopo Cooperative Governance Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs MEC, Basikopo Makamu, Mchunu also visited the completed 40.5 km pipeline, which is now transferring bulk water from Nandoni Dam to Nsami Dam, and the Giyani Water Treatment Works, which is being refurbished to reach its maximum capacity of treating 30 megalitres of water per day to benefit the local residents and the villages. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 14:45
291 views
No lectures for nearly two months now at Gqeberha college
Students have been protesting at Port Elizabeth TVET College over unpaid NSFAS allowances
Greening the Supply Chain: How AI and Innovation Drive Sustainability
As the world becomes increasingly aware of the impacts of climate change, businesses are finding new ways to mitigating them. This includes many supply chain operators that are looking to optimise their operations and make environmentally conscious choices. AI and innovation play a significant role in driving sustainability initiatives for any organisation courageous enough to …
Ndlovu Addo River Lodge: A Tranquil Retreat in Nqweba (formerly Kirkwood)
Nestled in the picturesque town of Nqweba, formerly known as Kirkwood, the Ndlovu Addo River Lodge offers a serene and enchanting getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its rich history and proximity to the renowned Addo Elephant National Park, this lodge is the perfect destination for those seeking a unique and unforgettable… Read More »
Addressing the Epidemic of Poor Posture: The Chiropractors Offer Solutions
Pretoria, South Africa – In today’s fast-paced world, where hours are spent hunched over desks, staring at screens, and contorted into awkward positions, it’s no wonder that back and shoulder pain have become endemic. The Chiropractors, with their years of experience and commitment to holistic wellness, are stepping forward to address this pressing issue. “Has …
Those who act with impunity will be brought to book
Those who act with impunity will be brought to book
“Impunity is no longer a given”.
These are the fighting words of National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Advocate Shamila Batohi.
She, alongside the National Prosecuting Authority’s executive committee, was addressing a media roundtable on Wednesday.
READ | NPA 'a long way down the road' on its vital rebuild
“The one big difference between what was the position five years ago and what’s the position now… is that impunity is no longer a given and the Steinhoff matter shows that. Even though it might take long. Even though the arm of the law might be long, it catches up.
“Those that are involved in corrupt activities know – even though there might not be a knock on the door yet – it will come and that in itself is mental incarceration,” she said.
The NDPP said the NPA has been hard at work to bring cases to court against high profile individuals, including former Ministers, Premiers, a former President and “some of the most powerful CEOs and CFOs across the country both in the private sector as well as public”.
“In the last five years, we have almost 700 government officials that have been convicted of corruption in the Specialised Commercial Crime Unit [SCCU] space. In 2023 and 2024, the SCCU achieved 329 convictions in serious and complex commercial crime cases, resulting in a conviction rate of 88.7%.
“The SCCU has enrolled four cases relating to 16 recommendations in the Zondo Commission reports… and several other matters will be ready for enrolment in the coming months.
“The ID [Investigating Directorate] has declared 103 investigations. They’ve enrolled 37 cases involving 208 accused persons as of January 2024."
WATCH |
Batohi said South Africans need to understand that getting to the judgment stage is a lengthy process led by the judiciary.
“Even when we do bring cases to court, then you have Stalingrad tactics that start. Very often we hear: 'But you don’t have people in orange overalls'.
“But it needs to be understood that once we enrol a case, it needs to move swiftly through the system so that we get to the end where you can say that a decision has been rendered by the judiciary.
“That process in court is led by the judiciary. We’ve been engaging with the Chief Justice [Raymond Zondo] and various Judge Presidents to see how we could actually fast track cases through the court system,” Batohi said.
The NDPP vowed that despite challenges, the NPA will continue to prosecute without fear or favour.
“I have every confidence that… if we could achieve what we have done with very little, that the days are certainly numbered in terms of those who will be before the courts,” Batohi said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 14:58
287 views
Sustainability blooms at Boschendal with launch of new Werf Food Garden
Boschendal has revealed its newly-transformed and redesigned Werf Food Garden, a further showcase of the historic farm’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its focus on farm-to-table dining. The Werf Food Garden is designed to sustainably enhance Boschendal’s sourcing capacity and ensure fresher, more flavourful produce for the seasonal menus on offer. Everything in the redesigned …
NBA Launches Accelerator Focused on Early-Stage African Startups
“Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator” Will Provide Top African Startup Companies in the Sports and Creative Industries with Funding and Mentorship Across Event Management and Ticketing, Youth Development, AI and Digital Marketing; ALX to Operate Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator and Oversee Selection Process; Startups Can Apply to Participate at TripleDoubleAccelerator.NBA.com.
In support of President Biden's Digital Transformation with Africa Initiative and building on the U.S. Department of Commerce-wide Africa strategy, NBA Africa today announced the launch of “Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator,” a startup accelerator based on the continent focused on early-stage African startup companies.
Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator will support Africa's tech ecosystem and the next generation of African tech entrepreneurs by providing them with access to mentorship and capital that will help drive growth in the sports and creative industries.
Operated by ALX Ventures, a leading technology incubator that provides the continent's tech leaders with access to the skills and tools to launch and scale their startups, Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator is open to early-stage startups in Africa that develop solutions in event management and ticketing, youth development, AI, and digital marketing in the sports and creative industries. Startups can apply to participate at TripleDoubleAccelerator.NBA.com through Friday, May 31, after which the submissions will be narrowed down to the top 10.
The 10 selected startups will then be paired with mentors comprised of NBA Africa and ALX leadership, and other corporate stakeholders, who will provide guidance to the companies with a focus on product development, business growth and go-to-market strategy. In September, NBA Africa will hold a Demo Day in New York City that will coincide with the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Participating companies will pitch their products to a panel comprised of top industry leaders from the U.S., Africa, and around the world. The panel will then determine the four winning companies, which will be awarded financial support, mentorship, and the opportunity to work with NBA Africa and the Basketball Africa League (BAL) on their current and future initiatives on the continent.
The announcement was made today by NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi, who was joined by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo and U.S. Trade and Development Agency Director Enoh T. Ebong at the American Chamber of Commerce's Business Summit in Nairobi, Kenya.
“We are thrilled to launch an accelerator program based on the continent and focused on early-stage African startups,” said Akamanzi. “This groundbreaking new initiative reflects our commitment to expanding the African sports ecosystem, and these incredible companies will be at the forefront of shaping the future of sport on the continent.”
Additional information about Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator will be announced at a later date.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Basketball Association (NBA).
Photo: https://apo-opa.co/4daIrqQ (U.S. Trade and Development Agency Director Enoh T. Ebong and NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi at the Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator launch) (Credit: NBA Africa)
Video: https://apo-opa.co/3UtDGBg (Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator)
Contact:
Pawel Weszka
NBA Africa Communications
pweszka@nba.com
+27 10 0072666
About NBA Africa:
NBA Africa is an affiliate of the National Basketball Association (NBA), a global sports and media organization with the mission to inspire and connect people everywhere through the power of basketball. NBA Africa conducts the league's business in Africa, including the Basketball Africa League (BAL), and has opened subsidiary offices in Cairo, Egypt; Dakar, Senegal; Lagos, Nigeria; and Nairobi, Kenya. The NBA has a long history in Africa and opened its African headquarters in Johannesburg, South Africa in 2010. The league's efforts on the continent have focused on increasing access to basketball and the NBA through youth and elite development, social responsibility, media distribution, corporate partnerships, NBA Africa Games, NBA Stores, the BAL, and more.
NBA games and programming are available in all 54 African countries, and the NBA has hosted three sold-out exhibition games on the continent since 2015. The BAL, a partnership between the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and NBA Africa, is a professional league featuring 12 club teams from across Africa that tipped off its fourth season in March 2024. Fans can follow @NBA_Africa and @theBAL on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.
IEC opens accreditation for all Results Operation Centres
IEC opens accreditation for all Results Operation Centres
The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has announced that it has officially opened applications for accreditation at all Results Operations Centres (ROCs) on Wednesday, 24 April 2024.
According to the IEC, a central accreditation system will be used for the national and nine provincial ROCs for the 2024 National and Provincial Elections (NPE).
Accreditation for all the ROCs is compulsory and must be done online at https://evolve.eventoptions.co.za/register/iecmedia2024 by selecting all the venues you will be attending.
The national ROC will be at Gallagher Convention Centre, 19 Richards Drive, Midrand, Johannesburg.
To qualify for accreditation, you will have to provide a headshot photograph, a valid media or press card, or a signed letter from your station manager or editor on an original letterhead requesting accreditation.
Applicants are required to indicate on their application at which venue they will be collecting their accreditation.
If collecting in person, you will be required to show proof of identification.
VIEW | Click here for our 2024 Elections Special Feature
However, if you will be picking up the accreditation on behalf of others, you will be required to show proof of identification and a letter of authorisation from a manager or editor with their names and ID or passport numbers.
Members of the media are requested to comply with the Occupational Health and Safety rules and regulations at all times within the facilities.
Meanwhile, media personnel are further requested to comply with the security rules and protocols while at the ROC facility.
The IEC said it reserves the right to withdraw the accreditation and card of any individual who fails to comply with the rules and regulations.
According to the IEC, journalists do not need accreditation to cover the elections at voting stations.
However, they will will need a media or a press card, or a letter from their station manager or editor on an original letterhead confirming employment and the ID or passport number.
Access to a voting station is with the approval of the Presiding Officer of the particular voting station.
The deadline to apply for accreditation at provincial and national ROCs will close on 10 May 2024, while the collection of accreditation cards will take place from 20 May 2024.
If you need assistance to register online or want to know whether your card is ready for collection, send an email to iec@eventoptions.co.za.
For queries on the requirements for accreditation, email to iec@eventoptions.co.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 15:03
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Chikunga extends well wishes to aspiring traffic officers
Chikunga extends well wishes to aspiring traffic officers
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has conveyed her well wishes to trainee officers, who will be embarking on the final selection process to train as traffic officers.
These officers are part of the national recruitment drive undertaken by the Road Traffic Management Corporation to reduce unemployment and create job opportunities for the youth, women and persons with disabilities
“We anticipate enrolling 600 trainee traffic officers to officially commence training on 1 June 2024. It is pleasing to note that about 40% of traffic officer recruits who are due to start training this year are females. Traffic law enforcement has historically been the domain of men,” the Minister said on Wednesday.
These trainees will enroll on a three-year traffic officer’s curriculum at a National Qualification Framework (NQF) level six, which is an equivalent of a national diploma. The NQF level six qualification was introduced in 2019 and the first cohort of 257 traffic officers trained on this curriculum graduated in 2023.
Addressing the trainee officers in Pretoria, the Minister explained that the training comprises compulsory knowledge modules (which is theory), practical modules, and work experience modules. Crime prevention forms an integral part of the training.
“This new qualification will go a long way towards the professionalisation of the road traffic law enforcement sector, ensuring respect, integrity, discipline, ethics and regaining public respect, as well as improving the ability of officers to enforce the law and reduce road traffic crashes.
“Traffic law enforcement training in our country has undergone a fundamental change to ensure that we produce well equipped officers who are able to effectively contribute to efforts to deal with the scourge of lawlessness which leads to the high number of crashes and fatalities on the roads.
“Poor ethical conduct has severely tainted the reputation of traffic law enforcement among road users, and the public in general. This also contributes largely to the lawlessness on the roads as many road users believe they can get away with transgressions through bribery and corruption,” Chikunga said.
She said she is certain that the recruitment process has been rigorous enough to uphold high ethical standards.
“All recruits, without exception, have undergone a pre-selection vetting process to check criminal records, verification of qualifications and checking biographical history to determine suitability for selection into the training programme.
“All the candidates will have to undergo medical assessment and only those who pass the assessment will be enrolled. After completing the course and on appointment as traffic officers, they must again be vetted in their first year of operation as officers and this must be repeated every five years to ensure that they remain on the straight and narrow. This is the only way to restore dignity and respect to our officers,” the Minister said.
The event took place at the newly upgraded Boekenhoutkloof Traffic Training Academy, which is set to serve as a Centre of Excellence in traffic training in South Africa, once construction of the second phase and third phase are completed.
“The accepted cohort of recruits will be the first ones to undertake training in these awe-inspiring premises when they officially open their doors in the next few weeks.
“Since 2019, training of our traffic officers was taking place at rented facilities while this 21st century academy was under construction. We commend the RTMC for their visionary insight in construction of these facilities as the outstanding home for traffic officer training in the country,” Chikunga said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 12:15
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