MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
Prince Albert, 19 March 2024 – The Journey to Jazz festival, now in its second year, is so much more than music. Being a celebration of the human spirit and cultural delights, it offers locals and visitors to Prince Albert, a wide range of extended events and activities with which to fill their days and …
Despite assurances, the state and the defence are still not ready for the Regan Naidoo death-in-custody trial
SAA is here to stay, says Minister Gordhan
Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan has assured staff at South African Airways (SAA) that the state-owned airline is “here to stay”.
This following last week’s announcement of the collapse of the deal with strategic equity partner, Takatso Consortium.
“Our ambition is that SAA will make enough profit to pay the government dividends. We have rebuilt the airline, and it will make profit that can support the fiscus instead of it looking for bailouts from government.
“SAA is here to stay. SAA will grow. SAA will expand. Don’t allow negativity to come near us,” Gordhan said.
The Minister reflected on the airline’s recent troubles and emphasised the need for intolerance for corruption.
“We should be grateful to government for the role it played to avoid liquidation.
“We will have zero tolerance for any corruption that rears its ugly head at SAA. We have a bright future ahead of us. We need to work together. You must work as a team,” Gordhan said.
Last week during the announcement of the Takatso Consortium deal, Gordhan told the media that SAA had a corporate plan aimed at sustaining the airline without needing government help.
“That corporate plan actually entails the gradual growth in the number of routes that SAA will take up in the course of the next few years. Similarly, it will have the capacity to lease more aircraft, both for domestic use, use within the continent and for inter-continental flights as well.
“All of these plans will be rigorously examined with the necessary aviation expertise to ensure that jobs are secure, that the airline is secure and that there is a future for SAA and its flag to be seen continuously within the country, within the continent and across continents as well,” Gordhan said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 09:30
The R56-million Vukile Tshwete Senior Secondary has officially opened in Keiskammahoek after eight years of struggle
Emphasis placed on investing in climate-resilient infrastructure projects
While South Africa has taken meaningful steps to invest in infrastructure projects, Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr David Masondo, says the fiscus cannot afford to financially support the amount of investment required for climate-resilient infrastructure.
“We therefore need to discuss other innovative financing mechanisms such as green bonds and carbon credit to fund these climate-resilient infrastructure projects,” Masondo said on Monday in Johannesburg.
He made these remarks during the second in a series of Southern Africa – Towards Inclusive Economic Development (SA-TIED) policy dialogues entitled “Financing infrastructure development in the context of climate change”.
“In South Africa, we feel the negative impact of climate change in important sectors such as agriculture, water, and energy. The frequency of natural disasters and the results thereof are felt every day in our country.
“Investments in renewable energy sources, water conservation systems, and sustainable urban development are key to mitigating and adapting to climate impacts,” the Deputy Minister said.
Masondo said the Infrastructure Fund is a testament to South Africa’s commitment to stimulating infrastructure investment and blending public and private financing to build a better, more sustainable future.
“The Infrastructure Fund stands out as a pivotal move, designed to stimulate investment across various critical sectors. This approach seeks to mobilise public and private resources, mitigate risks for private investors and foster an environment where collaborative financing models can thrive.
“Such measures are part of a broader effort to ensure that infrastructure development not only supports South Africa's immediate economic needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term resilience and progress.
“Yes, challenges exist such as securing funding. However, ensuring sustainability, and integrating the latest technologies are other additional challenges. These challenges should be treated as opportunities for innovation and forging robust public-private partnerships. This is also an opportunity for leveraging the power of technology in our infrastructure development goals,” Masondo said.
He said the groundbreaking research produced by the SA-TIED program has shed light on critical areas like water, and energy, and the broader connections between them.
“It is this type of research that directly shapes our infrastructure strategies, informing decisions to maximise impact and create the conditions for sustainable growth. The research informs our policy decision-making. It is this type of research that directly shapes our infrastructure strategies, informing decisions to maximize impact and create the conditions for sustainable growth,” the Deputy Minister said.
He said infrastructure development is the cornerstone of any thriving economy.
“Infrastructure fuels productivity (e.g. people arrive late to work because public transport is poor). Infrastructure also enhances the quality of life for our citizens (clean air, and clean water are important for our health) and lays the foundation for long-term growth.
“Our government recognises this. We have made significant investments in critical infrastructure. These investments are not just about roads and bridges. They are also about creating jobs, reducing poverty, and making South Africa a competitive player in the global economy,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 09:36
In today’s digital-first landscape, businesses across diverse sectors from B2B enterprises to healthcare, retail, and e-commerce are ardently seeking technological synergies that not only streamline operations but also carve a path for competitive superiority. Does that sound like a business? How intelligently any chain links together dictates its strength. There isn’t the space for weak …
Extradition request sent to Eswatini for alleged AKA killers
Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola has transmitted a request by South Africa for the extradition of brothers Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande from the Kingdom of Eswatini.
The two are wanted back in South Africa because of their alleged involvement in the murder of South African musician Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes.
Forbes was slain in a brazen attack outside a Durban restaurant in February last year.
“The request is made in terms of the Extradition Treaty between South Africa and Eswatini, dated 4 October 1968, and in terms of the SADC Protocol on Extradition dated 3 October 2002, to which both countries are signatories. The Ministry stands ready to give its highest level of co-operation to its counterparts in the Kingdom of Eswatini,” the department said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the Department of Correctional Services (DSC) says it is investigating a case of assault filed by controversial doctor Nandipha Magudumana.
Magudumana is currently being held at the women’s section of the Bizzah Makhate Correctional Centre in Kroonstad in connection with the escape of convicted rapist and murderer Thabo Bester.
“DCS is investigating the circumstances following what was said to be a prayer meeting in a different cell from Magudamana’s. Reports of an alleged altercation and a push against the grills can be confirmed.
“DCS officials advised Magudumana to open a criminal case when she reported that she was allegedly assaulted, but she opted to discuss it with her lawyers first. Furthermore, DCS Healthcare officials conducted an examination on her and found no visible injuries.
“The safety and well-being of inmates is our utmost priority, and we take such allegations seriously. Hence, this incident is under investigation,” the DCS said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 09:46
In our current day-to-day activities the convenience of buying goods or paying for services online is as much a necessity as it is a luxury. However, payment ease and security remain 2 of the main reasons why many consumers don’t change their shopping preference to online. Therefore, Nedbank has committed to leveraging its leadership position …
Ever watched The Masked Singer on SABC and wished you could play the game too? Well, this is your chance! Unmasking an experience that promises to captivate customers of all ages, where you will be able to guess who’s behind the mask and WIN! With 4 Days of spectacular giveaways and entertainment you can strike …
Transport infrastructure foundation for economic development in Africa, says Mashatile
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has described transport infrastructure as the cornerstone of economic expansion in Africa.
“We must make sure that we use the discussions and deliberations of the symposium to bring tangible collaboration on bi-national projects that will strengthen the continent and its economy,” he said on Monday.
The Deputy President was speaking at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium South Africa (SIDSSA) in Cape Town.
He said he was confident that the gathering would establish more strategic collaborations with the other African leaders.
“The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement remains an important platform for us as a continent to strengthen regional integration at both an economic and cultural level.”
The gathering is a platform that brings together critical role players in the infrastructure investment space to accelerate an infrastructure-led economic recovery plan.
The symposium also sets the tone for collaboration and cooperation within the continent.
Meanwhile, the country’s second-in-command said he was also looking forward to the launch of the construction book, which is a repository of projects going into procurement or construction in the 2024/25 financial year.
The Deputy President believes that this will serve as an important indicator to the market that the pipeline of projects is realisable.
“We also look forward to the announcement of the 12 infrastructure project priorities for the 2024/2025 financial year that will replenish the pipeline and receive project preparation funding from ISA [Infrastructure South Africa],” he said.
He also reflected on the success of the Infrastructure Investment Plan adopted by Cabinet in 2020.
The Deputy told delegates that the three central themes that anchor the plan have remained consistent throughout the sixth administration. These include quality infrastructure for development, recovery, and inclusive growth, which were all spearheaded by the government through policy development and implementation.
“When we say development, we mean both the development and delivery of infrastructure, and the development of our people through infrastructure delivery. When we say recovery, we mean the recovery of our economy through a large-scale infrastructure programme, led and championed by the government.”
Mashatile defined inclusive growth as the redressing of spatial imbalances between urban and rural areas through infrastructure delivery programmes, which ought to address gender, racial and other inequalities.
“The entire population should be included in the benefits associated with infrastructure investment and subsequent gross fixed capital formation," he said.
While challenges are restraining the fast pace of delivering quality infrastructure, the Deputy President called on the symposium to display some of the progress and successes that serve as a foundation for the incoming seventh administration.
“In the last five years, we have put specific focus on the strategic integrated projects that have the highest GDP [gross domestic product] impact, high employment absorption capacity, and localisation potential.”
He is of the view that these projects have the potential to crowd in private sector investments due to their multiplier effect.
“We are proud to say that of the pipeline that we gazetted both in 2020 and 2022, almost R10 billion worth of projects have completed construction, R233 billion worth of projects are currently in construction and R170 billion worth of projects are currently in procurement.”
Some of the completed projects include Vaal Gamagara Phase 1, the raising of the Hazelmere Dam wall, student accommodation across different universities, transport projects like the Musina Ring Road, national routes and the construction of social housing.
Of these, Mashatile said significant work was done within the energy portfolio of projects.
The energy project pipeline comprises more than 100 projects amounting to R240 billion. Some of these projects have a value of over R100 billion – spanning from transmission, gas, and renewables to green hydrogen.
The Deputy President said they have also noted the gap in the readiness and preparedness of projects for the market. However, he said in 2023, Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) received its first tranche of funding to support projects with project preparation.
“This has proven itself a game changer as some projects show great potential but do not always have the fiscal allocation for technical support, legal support, or even capacity building.”
According to the Deputy President, the project preparation funding allows ISA to support projects that otherwise would stay dormant for many years.
“It is important to note that of the first R200 million tranche received, 37 projects will already be receiving project preparation support.”
Meanwhile, through coordination and support of various departments and government stakeholders, Mashatile noted that ISA has unblocked 195 permits for 47 projects. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 10:50
Hey there, young entrepreneurs and savvy shoppers! Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Kidpreneur Market happening this Saturday! Explore a variety of stalls featuring: Yummy treats and snacks Bubble tea to quench your thirst Cool t-shirts and mugs Beauty products to pamper yourself Unique jewellery pieces Exciting children’s books But that’s not all! …
LG Electronics introduced its 77-inch LG OLED M3, the world’s first consumer TV with Zero Connect technology, a wireless solution capable of real-time video and audio transmission at up to 4K 120Hz, at an event held at The Digital Experience in Johannesburg on 14th March. (1.Power cable connection to both the TV screen and Zero …
South African Special Economic Zones (SEZ) are turning to natural gas and renewable energy to secure energy supply while improving operational efficiency. During a panel discussion at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium of South Africa (SIDSSA) in Cape Town on Tuesday, representatives from various SEZs across the country underscored the role gas and renewables have already begun to play.
Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit https://SIDSSA.org.za/.
With South Africa currently faced with an energy crisis, ensuring stability of supply has become a rising challenge for businesses across the country. SEZs are not exempt in this regard. According to Bheka Zulu, CEO, Tshwane Automotive SEZ, “This has led us to find innovative solutions…we are currently building a gas plant project – and solar. We still need to find more energy. Partnerships are key, because stakeholders can help us achieve this.”
Similarly, the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) SEZ is also developing gas and renewable energy projects to enhance energy security while reducing reliance on the national electrical grid. Simthembile Mapu, Executive Manager: Business Development and Support at the RBIDZ SEZ, said “We have a gas to power plant and are also constructing a pipeline. We also have a wind farm.”
While renewables stand to support operational efficiency, baseload power provided by South Africa's state utility Eskom remains imperative.
“We are talking about an intervention in renewable energy. Renewable energy is less about the base load. We can never downplay the role Eskom plays to make sure the baseload is taken care of. The issue of the lack of power is a major [challenge]. We need to sort out the issue of power supply in our country to support SEZ,” stated Themba Koza, Acting CEO, COEGA.
Strategically designated areas for targeted economic activities, South Africa's SEZs are to accelerate industrialization in the country. Stieneke Jensma, COO: Industrial Zones Program, Industrial Development Corporation, explained that “Our mandate is to accelerate the development of SEZ. We started a program focusing on energy security, specifically regarding SEZ. The idea is to collaborate and to ensure that what we are delivering promotes industrialization.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
About SIDSSA 2024:
SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event.
Planned maintenance to affect water supply in parts of Benoni
The City of Ekurhuleni has reminded customers in Benoni of the planned seven-hour water shutdown to be undertaken on Tuesday.
The shutdown will affect customers in parts of Benoni. It will be implemented from 9am to 4pm to make way for the replacement of faulty valves.
The areas to be affected by shutdown include Airfield, Farrarmere, Farrarmere Gardens and Lakefield.
“To mitigate the effect of the supply interruption, water tankers will supply water to the affected areas. Updates on any development will be communicated through the city’s digital platforms,” the city said in a statement.
Meanwhile, water supply has finally been restored to all the areas in Region 7 following weeks of water outage caused by the breakdown of a pump at the Bronkhorstspruit Water Treatment Plant in Tshwane.
The City of Tshwane said a new pump and motor were successfully installed at the plant last Friday, and pumping started in earnest at around 4pm.
“Full supply has been restored in Ekangala and Rethabiseng, except in Rethabiseng Extension 4, due to the infrastructure network connection. The section will start receiving water once there is enough water pressure in the whole area.
“The high lying area are also receiving water. There are indications that water is gradually trickling in at Ekandustria since this morning. The city apologises profusely to the residents for the inconvenience caused,” the city said on Tuesday. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 11:11
Nelson Mandela Bay Mayco member promises action on stalled project
There is a golden thread between Spain and the rugby career of Springbok Women midfielder, Piwokuhle Nyanda. Five years ago in 2019, aged 26, the Mastercard Golden Lions Women’s player made her international debut against Los Leonas in Nelson Mandela Bay. She followed it up with consecutive Tests against Scotland and looked set for a …
The International Cricket Council (ICC) Board met in Dubai this week and the future structure and context of international bilateral cricket was top of the agenda. The Board and the Chief Executives’ Committee both had extensive discussions on the future structure of the game, considering issues such as greater context for international white ball matches, …
Dear Editor Today, during an unannounced visit to Pelonomi Hospital in the Free State, the DA was barred from entering and conducting an oversight despite conducting oversight here several times in the past. The hospital’s decision to refuse entry today is alarming and raises questions on what they have to hide. A member of staff …
There’s nothing quite like starting your day with a freshly brewed cup of coffee. For coffee enthusiasts seeking the perfect brew at home, RS Imports offers a diverse range of premium coffee machines to cater to every taste and preference. Let’s explore the options available and why RS Imports is the go-to destination for coffee …
Nearly $5.7 trillion is required to close the infrastructure investment gap in South Africa by 2050, according to statements made by Mameetse Masemola, Acting Head of Infrastructure South Africa (ISA), during the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium South Africa (SIDSSA) on Monday.
During a media briefing, Masemola provided an update on projects led by ISA since its enactment in 2020, as well as highlighted efforts being made by the government agency to foster public-private sector cooperation and accelerate infrastructure development.
Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit www.SIDSSA.org.za.
“Our mandate is to close the infrastructure investment gap… We ensure projects are viable and bankable to attract funding from global investors. We work closely with authorizing departments to ensure fast rollout of projects, while ensuring the projects meet local regulations,” said Masemola.
ISA has led projects across ICT, energy, water and sanitation, transport and human settlement sectors, which have seen substantial growth in recent years.
“These are the sectors that support economic growth and enable South Africa to be competitive globally. Most of the projects were in their early stages in 2020. The value was R230 billion and the value has grown to over R500 billion,” stated Masemola.
In the energy sector, 95% of projects deployed have been private sector-led, including renewable energy projects developed under South Africa's Renewable Independent Power Producer Program (REIPPP), Embedded Generation Program and Just Energy Transition Program. Of the energy sector projects, 25 are under construction under Bid Window 5 of REIPPP, with five having reached financial close and a total of 14,000 jobs expected to be created, added Masemola.
In the transport sector, 15 projects have been announced, of which six represent a total value of R25 billion and are currently under development. Masemola stated that ISA has seen success when it comes to the human settlement sector, with over 9,000 units constructed and 38,000 jobs created since 2020.
Commenting on ISA's current and future project pipeline, Masemola stated that the agency has secured R600 million from South Africa's treasury to invest in projects over the next three years, with 31 projects currently being prepared.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
Design is a powerful tool for change. As part of reshaping the industry’s paradigms, this year’s theme for Decorex Africa, the continent’s leading decor and design showcase, is Designing for Impact. It marks a commitment to thinking beyond traditional boundaries and identifying the sweet spot that lies at the intersection of creativity, commercial viability and …
Scotland will play four Tests at Scottish Gas Murrayfield in November as part of the 2024 Autumn Nations Series. First up, Gregor Townsend’s side host Fiji on Saturday 2 November, kick-off 5.40pm. The last time Scotland took on the Fijians was in 2022, running out 28-12 winners. Eight days later, Scotland will take on Rugby …
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) is calling for the Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula to step down following the reports that her house in Bruma, Johannesburg was raided by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in relation to corruption allegations that she is facing. The Speaker is facing allegations of corruption relating to …
Government harnessing Land Reform to support growth of agriculture and job creation
President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that government is actively implementing various programs and initiatives to enhance the effectiveness of land reform aimed at bolstering agricultural growth and to foster increased employment within the industry.
President Ramaphosa was responding to questions for oral reply in the National Assembly on Tuesday.
A Member of Parliament asked the President to elaborate on the integrated plan that government has in place to maintain growth and job creation in the agricultural sector through land reform.
“Government’s land reform programme is supported by several complementary programmes and initiatives to enable growth and job creation.
“Through these complementary programmes and initiatives, we are working to ensure that land reform is harnessed more effectively to support the growth of agriculture and agro-processing and to expand employment and livelihoods in this vital industry,” the President said.
The President told Members of Parliament that land reform is vital to the transformation of our society and to correct historical injustices.
He noted that redistribution, restitution and the provision of secure tenure also contribute to greater agricultural activity and enable more people to earn a living off farming.
President Ramaphosa highlighted that in May 2022, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development signed the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan with partners in business and labour.
Among many other things, the plan supports the acceleration of land reform and outlines actions that the private sector can take to support optimal use of land available to black farmers as a result of land reform projects.
These actions include support to black farmers and SMMEs at the processing level to have better access to domestic and export markets.
The plan also encourages large commercial farmers to participate voluntarily in the land reform programme by donating land to historically disadvantaged farmers or participating in joint ventures to facilitate linkages between small- and medium-scale farmers operating on a commercial basis.
“If the proposed interventions are implemented effectively, the social partners believe that by 2030, the agricultural sector can grow by an additional R32 billion above the ‘business-as-usual’ baseline.
“Through this plan, they intend to maintain the existing jobs in the sector and create 75,000 new jobs by 2030. For the economic potential of our land reform programme to be fully realised, we are prioritising broader rural development,” the President said.
The Integrated Rural Development Sector Strategy of 2023 aims, among other things, to revitalise the rural economy through investment in, and development of rural infrastructure.
This includes investment in roads, bridges and other transport infrastructure, water and irrigation schemes, public health and education.
The strategy also provides for support to industries that support rural development, including agriculture and agro-processing, mining, the digital economy, the ocean economy, tourism, arts and culture.
“Improvements in rural infrastructure are necessary if we are to reap the economic potential of land reform. Beneficiaries of the various land reform projects need to be able to access water resources, get their produce to market, participate in local economic activity and have ready access to funding and other support,” he said.
The President highlighted that the land reform programme is also supported by initiatives that support skills development and employment, particularly for the youth.
Through the National Rural Youth Service Corps (NARYSEC) government provides young people with the skills and capabilities to participate in the economy.
He explained that through such rural development initiatives, more than 1 100 jobs have been facilitated in the current financial year.
He further stated that through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, more than 180 000 agricultural production input vouchers have been issued to subsistence producers.
The Presidential Employment Stimulus has also worked with the provincial departments of agriculture and social partners to provide support to more than 62 000 subsistence and smallholder producers to strengthen self-employment and food security. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 15:02