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As a seasoned business owner in the roofing and waterproofing industry, I’ve encountered countless scenarios where roof leaks prove to be elusive adversaries. Let me share my insights on this common challenge and guide you through the process of identifying and addressing these issues. The Sneaky Nature of Roof Leaks Roof leaks are like stealthy …
February 7, 2024 – In a remarkable display of talent and insight, businesswoman, mother, and wife, Alisha Ramasar, steps into the literary world with her debut novel, “Picture Perf*cked.” This captivating book ventures beyond the facade of societal expectations, offering readers a refreshing and humorous take on adulthood, motherhood, and womanhood. “Picture Perf*cked” is not …
The African Energy Chamber (https://EnergyChamber.org) vehemently rejects the notion and mindset that Africans are somehow unqualified to lead and host significant events like Investing in African Mining Indaba on their own land. It is unacceptable to have the future of Africa's energy defined and driven by entities that visit the continent sporadically and lack a genuine understanding of its complexities.
We cannot allow crucial decisions about Africa's energy future to be dictated by those who fail to prioritise the continent's silent majority—600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa living in the dark and 900 million lacking access to clean cooking fuels. The voices of these individuals must guide African energy decisions, and their needs should take precedence in shaping the continent's energy landscape.
“The idea that Africans are somehow incapable of managing their own affairs, is tiring. It's time we take full charge of our own destiny, while doing so in collaboration with likeminded partners.” Stated Tom Alweendo, Minister of Mines and Energy of Namibia.
The suggestion that Africans must rely on a small UK outfit, the Hyve Group, to organise events like Mining Indaba is insulting and patronising. This mindset epitomises the same attitude that African oil- and gas-producing states encounter in their energy transition – being excluded from the decision-making table and having their transition defined for them.
“This kind of decision-making, this suggestion that Africans are somehow unqualified to run Mining indaba or a mining investment event, and we have to beg a small UK outfit ( Hyve Group ) full of latte liberators with their fancy ideas about African energy to do it for, epitomizes the same kind of mindset that African oil- and gas-producing states have been encountering when it comes to their energy transition. They are defining the transition for you without you being on the table. They are defining and driving the agenda. You not on the table. You are on the menu”, Stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.
This insulting and patronising mindset extends to environmental groups and Western countries that pressure African leaders into energy transition decisions that may not be in Africa's best interests. The African Energy Chamber strongly opposes such external influences and emphasises the importance of a just, Africa-first energy transition. Let Africa make its own choices and define its own timeline.
"It's the same insulting, patronising mindset that has led environmental groups and Western countries to suggest they know what's best for Africa as they pressure our leaders into energy transition decisions that aren't in Africa's best interests. It's the same mindset that, in part, inspired me to do this work that I think is of critical importance for a just, Africa-first energy transition." Concluded Ayuk,
In addition to the lack of Black executives in the leadership of Hyve Group is troubling. In 2024 you can't having an organisation defining the narrative for the children in Senegal, Nigeria, Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa without any black executives in the leadership team. The absence of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) and local content compliance further underscores a disregard for inclusive economic participation and empowerment must be a serious concern.
The energy industry's progress, characterised by true representation and inclusion, can serve as a catalyst for the next generation of leaders, the youth. It's about ensuring that every African child, from Namibia to Congo to Cameroon, can see themselves as leaders in the energy sector, breaking barriers and shaping a future that reflects their diversity and potential. The time has come for the youth to be the driving force behind a new narrative, where Africa's energy decisions are made with them, for them, and by them.
The African Energy Chamber is committed to emphasising the importance of sending a positive message to every African child. True progress in the energy sector should translate into tangible opportunities for the youth, guiding them towards a future where they actively contribute to and benefit from Africa's sustainable energy development.
In light of these sentiments, the African Energy Chamber underscores the urgency of empowering Africans to take charge of events like Investing in African Mining Indaba and other critical discussions about the continent's energy future. It is time for Africa to be at the forefront of its own narrative, ensuring that decisions are made in the best interests of its people and guided by the voices that matter the most.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
About 200 people attended a summit hosted by Mining Affected Communities United in Action in Pretoria
The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Pretoria commemorated the 76th Anniversary of the Independence of Sri Lanka with the members of the Sri Lankan community and other well-wishers at the High Commission premises on 04 February 2024. Approximately 200 Sri Lankans in South Africa, as well as in other accredited countries, including Botswana and Mozambique along with South African friends of Sri Lanka participated in the event.
According to the participants and Sri Lanka community members, this year marked the highest participation in the Independence Day celebrations organized by the High Commission in recent history. Additionally, the year 2024 is significant in bilateral relations as the two countries celebrate 30th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year.
The event commenced with the singing of the Sri Lankan National Anthem followed by the National Anthem of the Republic of South Africa. A two-minute silence was observed in respect of those who sacrificed their lives for the motherland. Keeping in line with the tradition, a traditional oil lamp was lit by the children and young Sri Lankans present at the event with other distinguished guests.
Multi-faith religious observances were conducted by Most Ven. Nikorn O-In from the Johannesburg Buddhist Temple, Guru Ratnasabapathy Vengatraman of the Adhi Lingeswarar Hindu Temple in Benoni, Sheikh Anver Jhetam, a member of Jamiatul Ulama, South Africa, and Pastor Jack Mmulutsi of the Christian Revival Church, Johannesburg invoking blessings on Sri Lanka.
Following the welcome address by the High Commission, the Independence Day messages from President Ranil Wickremesinghe and President of the Republic of South Africa Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa were read out by the Mission staff.
All attendees were served with traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and Ceylon Tea.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Sri Lanka.
Clarens, Free State, South Africa – 7 February, 2024 – The Clarens Arts Festival, an annual gala of the arts, is delighted to announce its third edition to be held from May 1-5, 2024. Set in the scenic mountain village of Clarens in the Free State of South Africa, this event promises to be a …
On Wednesday, 7 February Premier Alan Winde and Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs, and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, gave an update during a media briefing on the coordinated efforts to restore electricity to towns in the Central Karoo, Garden Route, and Overberg regions. They were joined by Colin Deiner, Head of the (PDMC) and Eskom’s General Manager …
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) officially establishing the Junior Mining Exploration Fund (JMEF).
The establishment of this fund forms part of South Africa's mineral exploration strategy. The main objective of the fund is to enable eligible South African junior mining enterprises to access funding so they can conduct prospecting work; increase access to mine ore bodies; and promote economic inclusion to support equitable economic growth.
The main qualifying criteria requires applicants to comply with the South African mining regulatory requirements, including but not limited to the provisions of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA), the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) and the National Water Act.
“We can't over-state the significance of this industry to our economy. Mining is not only the backbone of our economy but is the largest employing sector in this country. Our exposure has informed us of the many challenges facing emerging black-owned mining companies that are looking for a foothold into this sector. Exploration costs can be onerous on small mining firms and therefore, it is our hope that the fund will help alleviate the challenges facing Junior mining companies,” said IDC Chief Operations Officer, Joanne Bate.
The fund will be administered and managed by the IDC while the DMRE, supported by the Council for Geoscience, will determine the minerals whose exploration can be funded through this initiative.
The DMRE and the IDC are still finalising modalities as to when the first application window calling for qualifying companies to submit applications for consideration will be made.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Mineral Resources and Energy: Republic of South Africa.
Over 200 intrepid swimmers kicked off their arduous 8 and 16-mile Charity Challenges at the aQuellé Midmar Mile this morning. Among those setting off on the mission to raise money for the official race charities was Jason Raath who has completed the 8-mile challenge eight times and decided to do something a little different this …
SYDNEY: Marizanne Kapp delivered an outstanding all-around performance, supported by debutant Ayanda Hlubi, as well as Eliz-Mari Marx and Nadine de...
There was the sound of happy, raised voices as learners at an Adopt-a-School Foundation school in Hammanskraal recited out loud from their favourite books. World Read Aloud Day has special meaning for Lot Phalatse Primary School in the North West, where a literacy and numeracy programme has been taking place since October 2022, funded by …
SONA 2024 a 'unique' milestone after 30 years of democracy
South Africans can look forward to a “unique” State of the Nation Address (SONA) this evening, as the important event is being held against the backdrop of the country preparing to commemorate 30 years of democracy.
This according to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, who was addressing the media in Cape Town on Wednesday.
SONA will be held at the Cape Town City Hall from 7pm.
“This [SONA] is different and unique in so many ways. It is important that it is allowed its own expression and that South Africans can take out of it the celebratory element. We are marking 30 years of our democratic dispensation. It is also the last SONA under the sixth administration.
“And so what you will have is a reflection of the past 30 years, coupled with an account of the work of the sixth administration over the last five years. It is important you allow those key elements to be expressed as much as possible without adding other issues,” he said.
Magwenya explained that the delivery of SONA is a Constitutional imperative.
“There is a Constitutionally mandated democratic tradition for the President to open Parliament. So it’s not just about the State of the Nation Address; it’s the opening of Parliament. This is something that has been part and parcel of our democratic dispensation since 1994.
“We urge all South Africans to follow the address as it deals with the state of the nation; not the state of only one segment or some segments of the nation. It is the state of all of the nation,” he said.
Having their say
This year’s SONA will be held under the theme: “Following up on our commitments: Making your future work better” and on the streets of South Africa, citizens expressed their views on what they believe the President should take stock of.
Mosito Moshatane from Kliprivier said: “I hope the President will address the issue of human settlements. I think people are living in places that aren’t good because they are desperate [for housing]. The queues are too long for them to be waiting”.
Nicardo Nell from Upington said: “This year I think it’s very important for us… to listen to the SONA because I think it will give us hope and direction.”
Prudence Faku said: “It is important that the President addresses the issues that we have, so that we know what the plans are going forward; what the problems are and how we can tackle those issues.”
Local is lekker
During a media briefing held by Parliament’s Presiding Officers this week, National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula said the holding of SONA has a greater impact beyond the walls of the Cape Town City Hall.
She said Parliament, together with Proudly South African, have come together to encourage guests and Members of Parliament to walk down the red carpet in garments produced by local designers.
“The campaign aims to increase appreciation and visibility for local designers and their creations, and to provide momentum for the growth of the fashion business. This initiative goes beyond mere fashion appreciation; it seeks to connect consumers with the rich stories, culture, and creativity inherent in South African fashion, thereby fostering a sense of pride in local craftsmanship.
"This partnership has far-reaching implications for the country’s economy and the fashion industry. Encouraging public representatives and guests to don local designs sends a powerful message of support for local business, which is crucial for economic growth, job creation, and addressing issues of inequality and poverty.
“This collaboration between Parliament and Proudly South African is not only a celebration of South African talent but also a step towards sustainable development, economic empowerment, and a more responsible fashion industry,” she said.
The local economy is also expected to receive a boost.
“SONA significantly boosts the local economy by attracting increased tourism, media presence, and business activities to the city.
“This influx of visitors and heightened economic activity during the SONA period contributes to job creation and increased revenue for local businesses, including hospitality, transportation, and retail sectors,” she said.
The Speaker encouraged South Africans to have their say on SONA.
“We encourage all South Africans to actively participate in SONA by tuning in and expressing their views across the various communication platforms provided by Parliament, government and mainstream media," said Mapisa-Nqakula.
SONA will be broadcast live on Parliament TV, mainstream broadcasters, and streaming services, ensuring comprehensive access and engagement for everyone across the nation.
"Let us come together as a nation to witness, discuss and reflect on the state of our nation, as we continue to build a more inclusive, prosperous, and resilient South Africa,” Mapisa-Nqakula said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 16:08
The Runified City 50km event which will start and finish at Pollock Beach, Summerstrand on Sunday, 25 February, will be open to all this year and will be an official Two Oceans and Comrades Marathon qualifier. An added incentive for entrants is that there will also be an official 42,2km timing mat which runners will …
Citizens express their wishes ahead of SONA
Reducing unemployment and tackling crime are some of the items on the wish list of Capetonians that they hope President Cyril Ramaphosa will speak to when he delivers the State of the Nation Address (SONA).
“I want to know what government has in store for us this year. I want to know what we going to get from government,” Swartbooi said.
Speaking to SAnews, Swartbooi said she wants government to provide people with employment, houses and to build more schools.
“Government must create more jobs so we could provide for our children,” she said.
This as President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to deliver the SONA, which will be the last one for the sixth administration, at 7pm on Thursday.
SONA is a joint sitting of the two Houses of Parliament – the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces - and is called by the President in terms of Section 42(5) of the Constitution
This year’s address is of special significance as the country will celebrate 30 years of freedom.
The State of the Nation Address sets out government’s key policy objectives and deliverables for the year ahead and government has called on South Africans to familiarise themselves with the content of SONA so everyone can contribute to the country’s growth and development.
During the address, the President will highlight achievements, flag challenges and outline interventions to unlock development.
Meanwhile, Calvin Mentjies said government must create more jobs as this will reduce crime.
“People are stealing because they are not employed We need government to intervene,” he said.
Malon Oosthuizen wants the President to increase grants saying the cost of living was too high.
“We want government to increase pension grants as things are too expensive now, we can’t afford to get the things we need for our daily living,” he said.
Oosthuizen says government must also tackle corruption and crime.
“People are getting robbed and killed daily by these ruthless criminals. Government must also arrest all those who are stealing from government and committing fraud because is the innocent people who suffers,” he said.
In preparation of SONA, road closures in the central business district will be in effect to assist with traffic flow and to accommodate the State of the Nation Address at the City Hall. The closures will affect the normal flow of traffic in and around the City Bowl.
In his address, President Ramaphosa will speak to political, economic and social issues and the general state of South Africa as well as its relations in Africa and abroad. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 16:21
Metrorail must prioritise security, say commuters
The judge is before the Judicial Conduct Tribunal to answer charges of gross misconduct
Dirco dismisses Nigerian High Commission's 'warning' ahead of Afcon semi-final
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) has assured that South Africa does not pose any danger to Nigerian citizens, as the two countries are set to face each other in the semi-final match of the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) tonight.
This assurance follows a safety advisory issued by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria on Tuesday, for its citizens residing in South Africa.
“The attention of the Nigerian High Commission Pretoria has been drawn to potentially inflammatory online comments made by a section of South African citizens against Nigeria living in the host country, largely influenced by the upcoming 2024 African Cup of Nations Bafana Bafana [semi-final] on Wednesday,” their statement read.
The commission has advised citizens to be cautious of where they watch the match, particularly in public places, and to avoid loud, riotous or provocative celebrations if Nigerians win the match, both before and after the game.
However, the Dirco has since described the commission’s advisory as “unfortunate”.
“The advisory is regrettable because it seems to create alarm and unnecessary tension between the citizens of South Africa and Nigerians living in or visiting South Africa,” the department said.
“The South African national soccer team, Bafana Bafana, has played against their Nigerian counterparts, the Super Eagles, on many occasions, and there has been no history of soccer hooliganism among South Africans associated with the outcome of such encounters.”
The department has since called on the diplomatic representatives to approach the department to address any concerns about diplomatic matters.
“We are confident that the sports-loving nation of South Africa poses no threat to Nigerian citizens, and we do not agree with the apprehension expressed by the High Commission.”
Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana is said to be confident ahead of the Afcon semi-final clash against the Super Eagles.
“Yes, we know and understand who we are up against. We know the might of this team and that their players play all over Europe. We also know that last time in an Afcon what the result was, but this time it’s different. It’s different players, a different team and a different Afcon. Anything is possible,” the Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos, was quoted saying on Tuesday.
The South African Football Association (Safa), also cited captain and goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, who was the man of the match in the quarter-final clash against Cape Verde.
Williams made history after saving four penalties out of the five penalties in a shootout – something that has never been achieved at the Africa Cup before.
“After seeing the players run for about 130 minutes non-stop, it was my turn to stand up and do my part. I’m happy it went our way but ultimately this is a team sport. I don’t like to take credit because they fought just as hard. So, reaching the semi-finals here means we did it together,” he said.
Kick off is at 19:00 this evening. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 09:14
The Ad Hoc Committee on the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill today continued with the second leg of the public hearings in the Western Cape. Today, approximately 170 members of the public attended the public hearings at the Belthorn Recreation Centre in Athlone.
During their oral submissions, some residents asked that clear definitions be included, especially on national security, threat to national security, security competency test, and opportunity or potential opportunity in the Bill. Members of the public said that these definitions are vague, too broad and do not provide sufficient clarity to ensure that state intelligence services operate within their Constitutional mandate.
Some residents also raised concerns that the Bill fails to provide the Inspector General of Intelligence (IGI) with the independence required to conduct oversight over the intelligence services. Some said that the IGI's recommendations should be legally binding and that legislation about vetting, vetting oversight and appeals be strengthened.
There were members of the public who also raised concerns about the enhancement of the State Security Agency's powers of mass surveillance through the National Communications Centre, particularly after the Constitutional Court's judgement that ordered changes to the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-Related Information Act 70 of 2002 (RICA) to ensure bulk surveillance is regulated.
The committee is grateful to the citizens of the Cape Town Metro for their inputs on the Bill. This weekend, the committee will continue with public hearings in KwaZulu-Natal.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
MEC saddened by death of Grade 1 Gauteng learner
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has expressed devastation at the death of a Grade 1 girl learner who passed away after allegedly consuming biscuits from a local spaza shop.
In an incident that took place on Tuesday, it is alleged that the learner from Mandlethu Primary School in Tsakane, Brakpan, began experiencing health complications in class just before break at 11am and started vomiting a few minutes later.
According to the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), the learner’s parents were contacted immediately to come to the school, while emergency services were also alerted to provide the necessary medical assistance.
“Unfortunately, the learner was certified dead by paramedics upon arrival. According to information at our disposal, the parents confirmed that the child had consumed biscuits which were bought from a local spaza shop owned by foreign nationals,” the GDE said.
Police are investigating circumstances surrounding this incident, while the department’s Psycho-Social Support Unit has been deployed to provide trauma support and counselling to all affected individuals.
“We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident.
“We plead with parents to be vigilant concerning the edible goods that their children consume. We call upon law enforcement agencies and municipalities to be more stringent on compliance matters related to spaza shop products. Indeed, we wish to extend our sincerest condolences to the family and the school community at large,” MEC Chiloane said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 09:34
Joint media release by Premier Alan Winde and Mireille Wenger, Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities; National budget process causing budget cuts to health, education, social services and more.
The impact of the nationally imposed budget cuts on healthcare provision, as outlined in an open letter signed by hundreds of health workers, academics, doctors, professors and clinicians this week, is simply devastating.
The excellent work done day in and day out by the vital people who are integral to the lives of millions of South Africans in the face of significant challenges, does not go unnoticed, nor unappreciated. These dedicated public servants are at the very heart of the frontline services relied upon by our residents, especially the most vulnerable in our society.
The implications of the nationally imposed cuts go beyond health care services and have hit education and social development services - and every other provincial department. This is exactly what the Western Cape Government warned of and which it is now fighting to stop and reverse.
“The mission of the Western Cape Government is to do all we can, using all available levers, to cushion these blows. However, the hard truth is that the quantum of the budget cuts is now so large that it will be almost impossible to fully mitigate the loss of funding from the national purse” said Premier Alan Winde.
“The fact is that these budget cuts are beyond the control of the provinces because we rely almost entirely on funding from the nationally collected tax revenue. This is then allocated to each of the nine provinces by the National Treasury through the Provincial Equitable Share (PES), to fund the core constitutional mandates of providing, amongst others, health care, education and social development services,” added provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger.
In the Western Cape, the PES accounts for approximately 75% of the budget while Conditional Grants amount to approximately 18% of the total budget. These sources, determined by national government, therefore make up the vast majority (93%) of the budget in the Western Cape.
As things stand, a total of R6.7 billion has been reduced from the Western Cape's PES over the 2024 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) over the next three financial years as part of nationally imposed fiscal consolidation. This amounts to more than the total combined budgets of the provincial Departments of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Economic Development and Tourism, and Cultural Affairs and Sport.
Currently, the Department of Health and Wellness receives 37% of the total Western Cape Provincial budget.
“Over and above these devastating reductions, provinces have not been fully compensated by national government for the 2023 public sector wage agreement, that was centrally negotiated without consultation, and unilaterally imposed on provinces” added provincial Minister Wenger.
Only Health and Education received partial funding of the wage agreement of which Health received 70% and Education received 64.5% of what is required, while all other departments/services have had to absorb the full cost of the wage agreement. In total the funding shortfall of the wage agreement amounts to R1.1 billion for the 2022/23 financial year and recurs over the MTEF.
“The impact of these budget cuts will have a direct impact on critical service delivery in the Western Cape and we are doing all we can to protect these services” said provincial Minister Wenger.
Premier Winde went on to emphasise that “This is why, in November last year, we formally declared an intergovernmental dispute (IGD) with the national government, to fight for the residents of this province, particularly the most vulnerable who rely heavily on these services. Our residents must get their fair share of funding. As much as we are fighting for our vulnerable residents, we are also fighting for our public servants like our health professionals so that they can focus on their critical work. As we head into the next phase of the IGD with the mediations upcoming, we will not back down.”
Minister Wenger confirmed that “There are also other serious concerns regarding the PES. As it stands, the latest census data has not been incorporated into the PES calculations. The result of which is that while the Western Cape is the third largest province in South Africa by population, we only get the fifth largest budget allocation.”
“This government is fighting for our residents to protect our frontline services, our children, those who depend on the public health system, and the most vulnerable in our society” concluded provincial Minister Wenger.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government.
Cloudy conditions expected ahead of SONA
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) predicts a cloudy start to Thursday’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), with skies clearing in the afternoon and moderate winds.
“There will be a cloudy start to the day but clearing up as the day progresses and becoming more partly cloudy to sunny conditions later on for tomorrow,” the SAWS told SAnews.
The SAWS predicts mild temperatures around mid-20 degrees Celsius with a moderate south-westerly wind expected throughout the day.
“There is a weak cold front that is passing through tonight and if there’s any rain, it will be through the night or the early hours of tomorrow morning,” the SAWS explained.
This as all roads lead to the Cape Town City Hall where President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver his highly anticipated SONA.
The address is an opportunity for the President to account to the nation on government's work and to set the State’s programme of action.
The President's speech will touch on the general state of South Africa, and reflect on a wide range of political, economic and social matters within the domestic and global contexts.
The address will be followed by a two-day joint debate on his address and he will then reply to issues raised in the debates.
During this important joint sitting of Parliament, the President usually also makes key government announcements.
Activities prior to the President delivering the SONA include a 21-gun salute, an aircraft fly-past, a ceremonial guard and the step guard salute.
There will also be the singing of the national anthem, a full military band, and ceremonial processions involving provincial Speakers, Premiers, the judiciary, the Deputy President, and the President.
The President will be ushered into the National Assembly by praise singer, Senziwe Hatty Maliba, a 24-year-old from Nkomazi in Mpumalanga. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 14:12
The Portfolio Committee on Trade, Industry and Competition yesterday approved the World Trade Organisation's (WTO) agreement on the ratification of fisheries subsidies.
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition briefed the committee on the ratification of the agreement and sought the committee's approval to ratify the completed first phase of the agreement, as recommended by Cabinet.
Committee Chairperson Ms Judy Hermans said that implementing the agreement will contribute to a better world by reducing pressure on global fish stocks. In addition, the ratification will allow South Africa to meet the United Nation's sustainable development goal of prohibiting and eliminating certain forms of fisheries subsidies, including those that contribute to illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. Such fishing costs Africa over $2.3 billion in economic losses every year, according to estimates from the African Union Commission.
The meeting also heard that the agreement contributes to environmental sustainability provisions in the South African government's National Development Plan, in particular, sustaining South Africa's marine ecosystem. Furthermore, the sustainable management of global fisheries and fish stocks is in South Africa's interests, in particular, the interests of communities dependent on this resource for their livelihood.
According to the presentation, the first phase of the agreement was adopted by consensus at the WTO's 12th Ministerial Conference, which was held in Geneva in June 2022. It sets new binding, multilateral rules to curb harmful fishing subsidies, which are a key factor in the widespread depletion of the world's fish stocks. The agreement recognises and provides for special and differential treatment to address the needs of developing and least-developed countries, albeit in the form of transitional periods.
The agreement also establishes a fund to provide technical assistance and capacity building to help signatory countries implement the obligations. It further prohibits support for IUU fishing and bans support for fishing overfished stocks, as well as subsidies for fishing on the unregulated high seas.
The committee heard that negotiations on the more contentious issues relating to overfishing and overcapacity will continue in the second phase. This phase of negotiations will focus on delivering a comprehensive agreement at the 13th Ministerial Conference, which will continue this month in Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates. Such recommendations will cover additional provisions that will address overcapacity and overfishing and are necessary to comply with the mandate of the United Nations SDG 14.6.
The committee also heard that the completed first phase of the agreement is a tool for better fisheries management that will strengthen South African and global sustainable fisheries management systems through transparency requirements. It will also provide a way to improve data collection on the stock status of vulnerable fisheries and on related subsidies.
Vulnerable groups, such as coastal communities and small-scale fishers, who rely heavily on fish as a protein source, will also benefit, as the ratification of the first phase of the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement provides a basis to contribute towards the livelihoods of such communities.
The agreement also contains a dispute settlement provision that will apply generally to disputes under the agreement. As such and for the first time, the agreement brings fisheries management issues within the scope of the WTO's dispute settlement process.
Ms Hermans said the committee considered the agreement, adopted the draft report on the agreement, and recommended that the National Assembly approves the agreement.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
The union said negotiations with university has failed