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#BlackExcellence: Breaking Barriers to Female Leadership

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

Black women continue to break barriers across diverse industries, paving the way for future leaders with their resilience, intelligence and determination. The upcoming Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS), scheduled for February 27, 2024 in Dubai, is set to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Black women, while connecting movers and shakers from across the global Black community.

Black women play a crucial role in transforming industries, leaving an undeniable impact from entertainment to business, science to politics. In Africa, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf – Liberia's first democratically-elected female president – has garnered international acclaim for empowering women, winning the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize and today advocating for female political participation. Meanwhile, Mozambican social scientist Alice Banze boasts a 25-year career in civil society and government and is the Executive Director of the Gender and Sustainable Development Association. Elected to the National Elections Commission in 2020 with support from the Women's Forum, she exemplifies transformative female leadership in Mozambique.

Many women are rising through the ranks across industries by forging their own paths. One example is Linda Mabhena-Olagunju, the founder and CEO of DLO Energy Resources Group, who leads a Black women-owned renewable energy company that focuses on wind power projects in South Africa. Other figures like Oprah Winfrey, who has built a media empire, and Ursula Burns, the first Black woman to head a Fortune 500 company, show the strength and determination of Black female leaders.

Yet despite their notable accomplishments, Black women in leadership often encounter systemic challenges to representation. In the US, Forbes reports that only 4.4% of Black women hold managerial roles, and merely 1.4% occupy executive-level positions, despite comprising 7.4% of the American population. In contrast, in Africa, women are making significant strides in governance roles. According to data from the Inter-Parliamentary Union, four African nations—Rwanda, Namibia, South Africa and Senegal—are among the top 15 countries globally for the highest representation of women in parliament. Rwanda leads with an impressive 61.3% of female parliamentarians, yet the sub-Saharan African average stands at 23.6%.

The intersectionality of race and gender amplifies challenges in the workplace for Black women, necessitating targeted efforts to address and mitigate specific barriers to leadership. Initiatives centered on diversity, equity and inclusion are crucial for dismantling these barriers and creating a more equitable playing field. To achieve this, companies and organizations must implement policies that recognize the unique value and perspectives of Black women in their respective industries, fostering a more inclusive environment that provides equal opportunities for success.

Celebrating Black women in leadership requires creating a supportive environment for future leaders through mentorship programs, educational initiatives and networking opportunities. Investing in the next generation of Black female leaders contributes to a more diverse and dynamic future, which the upcoming GBIS 2024 will facilitate by providing a platform for engagement, inspiration and unity. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

About Global Black Impact Summit 2024:
The Global Black Impact Summit is an annual event that seeks to celebrate the achievements of the Black community, promote excellence and explore untapped potential across various fields. This year's summit is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions, and networking opportunities that encourage attendees to reach new heights.

To secure your spot at this prestigious gathering, register promptly at www.GlobalBlackImpact.com.

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One million parcels delivered: Cotton On and DPD share a momentous partnership milestone

Location: MyPR

In South Africa’s rapidly evolving e-commerce sector, the crucial role of last-mile delivery is increasingly prominent. As online shopping becomes more prevalent, efficient and reliable delivery services have become pivotal. The strategic alliance between Cotton On, a prominent fashion retailer, and DPD ZA, a leading logistics provider, particularly in handling over one million parcels and mastering the demands of Black …

Read moreOne million parcels delivered: Cotton On and DPD share a momentous partnership milestone

International tourist arrivals continue to increase in SA

Location: News

International tourist arrivals continue to increase in SA

International tourist arrivals from January to November 2023 totalled 7.6 million, representing a remarkable 51.8% increase when compared with the same period in 2022. 

This is according to the latest Statistics South Africa figures on international arrivals, which the Department of Tourism said shows the South African tourism sector’s rising momentum.

While recovery towards pre-COVID-19 numbers is encouraging, the department said this performance is 17.6% lower compared to the same period in 2019.

However, the department believes that South Africa remains an attractive destination for both domestic and international travellers. 

“The numbers show that the tourism sector is successfully driving travel to South Africa while shaping cultural exchanges and contributing to inclusive economic growth,” the department said.

Africa

During the first 11 months of 2023, South Africa welcomed 5.8 million visitors from the rest of Africa, marking a significant 75.5% of all arrivals, compared to the same period in 2022. 

Zimbabwe and Kenya stood out for their remarkable growth.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe saw an exceptional 77.5% increase in tourist arrivals, totalling 1.9 million, while Kenya recorded a 94.2% surge, reaching 37 414 arrivals for January to November this year compared to the same period last year.

Minister of Tourism, Patricia De Lille, noted Kenya’s remarkable performance, which could be attributed to the strategic decision by government to simplify the visa regime earlier this year as well, as targeted and effective insights-driven marketing campaigns. 

“Overall, through focused marketing, various collaborations and leveraging various strategic opportunities by the Department of Tourism, South African Tourism and the broader tourism sector, we have been able to achieve these very impressive results on the continent,” she said.

Americas

Tourist arrivals from the Americas this year registered at 411 254, reflecting a 44.1% growth compared to the same period in 2022. 

The United States contributed the most, with 320 948 arrivals, marking a 39.5% increase compared to the same period in 2022.

“The US remains a top international source market for South Africa and has been recording robust steady growth in arrivals in 2023.” 

Based on December projections, De Lille said they anticipate recording pre-pandemic arrivals, well ahead of the forecasted recovery mooted for the 2024/2025 financial year.  

Europe 

With 1.1 million tourist arrivals, Europe contributed to 14.6% of the total arrivals, during the first 11 months of 2023. 

The data mark a 43.2% increase when compared to the same period last year.

The United Kingdom remains the top European source market, with 315 054 tourists choosing South Africa marking a 30.4% growth. 

Germany experienced a 47.9% increase in arrivals, amounting to 219 971 tourists, followed by the Netherlands, which saw an increase of 48.4% amounting to 117 948 tourist arrivals from this country. 

Meanwhile, the Minister said Russia exhibited a “dramatic” growth of 83.9%, contributing 25 116 arrivals.

Asia 

In the same period, the Asian markets also showed significant growth, with a total 182 497 arrivals from the region, representing an astounding 72.6% when compared to the same period last year. 

In this region, India led the way with 73 037 tourists, a 46.3% growth, closely followed by China, which saw a massive 215.7% surge, amounting to 34 669 arrivals.

“The reopening of the Chinese market and the initiation of direct flight routes have catalysed a resurgence in arrivals, highlighting the vast potential and significance of this market to South African tourism,” the Minister said.

Middle East 

The Middle East saw a robust increase, with 51 779 arrivals in the same period - a 37.5% growth when compared to the same period in 2022. 

South Africa received 15 507 arrivals from Saudi Arabia, marking an increase of 40.9%. 

In addition, the United Arab Emirates showed a remarkable 114.2% growth, accounting for 6 360 arrivals.

“I am committed to working with all partners and government colleagues to unlock barriers such as visa regulations, safety concerns and limited air access and airlift so that we can grow our sector and meaningfully contribute to our country’s economy,” De Lille said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 13:58

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Read moreInternational tourist arrivals continue to increase in SA

Ransomware: Tto pay or not to pay?

Location: Business

The rise of ransomware attacks has become an alarming trend, causing business leaders to grapple with a difficult question: should they negotiate with ransomware attackers and pay the demanded ransom? This dilemma poses many challenges, and businesses must weigh the potential consequences of their decisions. “Many think that paying the ransom may be the quickest …

Read moreRansomware: Tto pay or not to pay?

Du Plessis hits 50 for DHL Stormers

Location: Sport

Jean-Luc du Plessis will play his 50th game for the DHL Stormers in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship North-South clash against the Vodacom Bulls at DHL Stadium on Saturday. Du Plessis starts at inside centre in the big South African derby, which kicks off at 19h00 on Saturday. Gates at DHL Stadium open at 16h00, …

Read moreDu Plessis hits 50 for DHL Stormers

Community insurance 101 for body corporates and homeowners’ associations

Location: MyPR

Data from the 14,000 communities managed by property management software company WEconnectU, shows that 20-30% of property owners in sectional title schemes and homeowners’ associations (HOAs) are currently behind on their levies – and the resulting cashflow shortage is making it difficult for the HOAs and the sectional title body corporates (BCs) to effectively maintain …

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Communities urged to engage Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Position

Location: News

Communities urged to engage Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan

The Cape Peninsula Baboon Management Joint Task Team (CPBMJTT) has encouraged communities to read the Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan, as well as the baboon-proof fencing summary report.

This follows the adoption and release to the public of the Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan (CPBSMP), which provides a framework for the sustainable management of the Cape Peninsula’s Chacma baboons.

Communities are also encouraged to propose strategies, actions and interventions for discussion.

In a statement on Thursday, the CPBMJTT said the plan will be supported and elaborated upon with area-based solutions developed jointly with affected communities.

The CPBMJTT consists of representatives from the South African National Parks (SANParks), CapeNature and the City of Cape Town.

In the new year, the CPBMJTT will commence with engagements with affected communities to collaborate on area-specific solutions and strategies applicable to an affected community.

“The Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan must be operationalised with specific local strategies that address the different needs, circumstances, resources and geographical concerns of impacted communities. This is to ensure these are best suited and most appropriate to respective areas and supported by residents,” the CPBMJTT said.

Work on the draft plan commenced in June 2022 after roundtable discussions on baboon management within the Cape Peninsula took place at Kirstenbosch.

A draft plan was presented to the public for comment in January 2023 and was followed by a stakeholder engagement meeting that was hosted in Tokai in March 2023.

“The CPBMJTT received and considered more than 800 individual comments emanating from the public participation period.  In July 2023, the three spheres of government signed a Memorandum of Agreement that sets the foundation for cooperation between the three parties,” CPBMJTT said.

The Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan is available through the following links:

SANParks – https://bit.ly/3sb9mQJ

CapeNature – https://bit.ly/47c1mOd

City of Cape Town – https://bit.ly/3Qj2j1L and https://bit.ly/3tw3j9I

More information about this process will be made available early in 2024. –SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Fri, 12/22/2023 - 07:58

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Read moreCommunities urged to engage Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Position

Over 900 Tourism Equity Fund applications initiated

Location: News

Over 900 Tourism Equity Fund applications initiated

A total of 985 applications for the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF) have been initiated by prospective applicants with 131 completed applications submitted that meet all application requirements.

This follows the opening of the TEF application process for businesses on 6 November 2023. 

The Department of Tourism, together with the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa), an agency within the Department of Small Business Development, announced the opening of the application process for TEF on 2 November 2023, after Cabinet’s approval in September 2023 for the revised TEF implementation in September 2023.

The R1.2 billion fund aims to increase growth, transformation and stimulate more inclusive participation in the tourism sector in line with the targets of the Tourism Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Sector Codes. 

The TEF is intended to address the funding challenges faced by Qualifying Small Enterprises and Emerging Micro Enterprises in the tourism sector. 

According to a Sefa report, the 131 submitted applications represent a combined investment value of just over R2 billion.

Sefa reported that some of the 131 applications formally submitted have already been pre-screened, while pre-screening for the remaining applications will be completed by the end of the year. 

Although no specific information is available yet on the type of enterprises, or the nature of projects for which TEF support have been applied for, Sefa’s preliminary report that 45 of the registered applications originated from Gauteng, 21 from KwaZulu-Natal, while between 10 and 14 applications were submitted between Limpopo, North West, Western Cape and Eastern Cape and with only one from the Free State. 

Subsequent to basic or pre-screening, Sefa explained that the applications are subjected to a due diligence process, which includes a more detailed assessment of financial viability, Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA) compliance and reporting, credit and legal checks before preparation for presentation to the relevant investment committee for final adjudication.

“Depending on the readiness of projects, the applications may potentially be presented at upcoming committee meetings that Sefa has provisionally scheduled in Quarter 4 between January and March 2024,” the agency explained.

Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille, said the department is encouraged by the level of interest and applications to the Tourism Equity Fund, which is aimed at driving empowerment and transformation to support the growth of new and emerging enterprises in the tourism sector. 

“This is in line with our aims as government to support investment by the private sector to grow an inclusive tourism sector that can continue to contribute to the country’s economy and job creation. We will continue to keep businesses and the public updated on this important project in the coming weeks and months,” de Lille said.

The TEF will be implemented by:
•  Assessing and scoring applications against jobs to be sustained and/or jobs to be created, location and geographic spread, and targeted groups (youth, women, and people with disabilities).
•  Department of Tourism and Sefa in partnership with banking and/or financial institutions in the Republic of South Africa, which includes, amongst others, banks and developmental finance institutions that will offer affordable and tailor-made financial solutions, in an attempt to close funding gaps in the market, through the provision of a blended finance solution.
•  Disbursing a total of 80% of the TEF funds to existing Small Medium and Micro Enterprises in the market to enable these businesses to grow. The remaining allocation of 20% of the funds will be disbursed to new businesses. 

The Minister said Sefa will implement, execute, and manage the fund through a fund management agreement signed with the Department of Tourism. The department will support and monitor the implementation of the TEF on a monthly basis. 

“The funding structure comprises grant funding, and debt financing, to meet the distinct needs of tourism enterprises that are either seeking equity acquisition, investment in new developments, or expansion of their existing businesses. 

“The fund will focus on tourism enterprises in the accommodation, hospitality and related sectors-, and travel and related services-subsectors. The TEF will consider applications for start-ups, acquisitions, expansion and development projects in line with the Tourism B-BBEE sector codes,” de Lille said.

With consideration of Regulation Gazette No 11067, Volume 697, No 49018 published on 25 July 2023, withdrawing Regulation Gazette No 11241, Volume 668 of 19 February 2021. No 44172, all applicants (including previous applicants) are encouraged to submit new applications that will align with the new qualifying criteria of TEF.

For more information on the Tourism Equity Fund and the application process visit: https://www.tourism.gov.za/CurrentProjects/Tourism_Equity_Fund/Pages/Tourism_Equity_Fund.aspx. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Fri, 12/22/2023 - 08:12

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eThekwini refuse collection to continue through festive season

Location: News

eThekwini refuse collection to continue through festive season

The eThekwini Municipality says refuse removal in the city will continue as normal during the festive season.

The municipality's Cleansing and Solid Waste (CSW) Unit said residents whose waste collection day falls on a public holiday will still have their refuse collected. 

“The Cleansing and Solid Waste Unit’s offices will be closed on 15, 25, and 26 December and on 1 January 2024. Residents are urged to note that orange recycling bags will not be collected on public holidays. 

“The last day of the orange bag collection is 22 December, and the collection of recyclables will resume on 2 January 2024. Residents can keep their recycables on their properties until then. Alternatively, they can take them to their nearest drop-off or buy-back centre,” the municipality said in a statement.

While it is the season of giving, the municipality warned that CSW staff are strictly prohibited from touting for gifts, including money, from residents. 

The city urged residents, who are approached by CSW staff for gifts during this period, to take the registration number of the vehicle and report the matter for further investigation and consequence management. 

“We would also like to advise residents to be wary of impostors posing as CSW workers to solicit gifts. The city would also like to encourage residents and visitors to ensure a litter-free festive season and those who will be visiting beaches are advised to use litter bins that are strategically placed. 

“Residents are encouraged to avoid littering and illegal dumping. Those who are found illegally dumping waste in any open spaces will be fined and will be responsible for the removal of that waste,” the municipality said. 

The city also appealed to the public to assist in curbing the increase of illegal dumping by reporting all offenders on 031 311 8804/36 or send an email to  dsw@durban.gov.za – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Fri, 12/22/2023 - 08:41

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Happy holidays to every! 

Location: News

Happy holidays to all! 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished all South Africans well this holiday season. 

Holiday festivities are expected to kick off in earnest this weekend, as people living in the country come together to prepare to celebrate Christmas or the end of year holiday season. 

“As we look back on the year, we are reminded once more of the great South African spirit that gives us courage, hope and the will to persevere.

“We pay tribute to citizens from all walks of life, who are working to make ours a country of shared freedom, equality and prosperity, where no one is left behind,” he said. 

With New Year’s Day just over a week away, the President said this is a time for hope for the future. 

“We look to the next year with hope. May we continue to draw from the deepest wells of resilience, humanity and compassion that make us who we are. Wherever you are this festive season, I wish you well,” President Ramaphosa said.

In his last weekly newsletter for this year, the President acknowledged that South Africa has endured a difficult 2023. 

He said that while “times are still tough”, much progress has been made but there is “still some way to go”.

“What is most important is that we have done much of the groundwork needed to put our economy on a path of faster growth and job creation. By working together, by staying the course, we have used the last year to lay the basis for a better 2024,” he said. - SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 12/22/2023 - 09:22

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Law enforcement out in numbers to ensure compliance

Location: News

Law enforcement out in numbers to ensure compliance

With traffic volumes expected to increase as holidaymakers travel to and from their destinations, Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga says law enforcement officials will be out in full force to ensure the roads are safe.

Authorities will be using technology to ensure compliance with the law on the roads.

“Over this period, we are deploying personnel and technologies across the country, especially in high-risk accident-prone areas to prevent incidents and accidents by ensuring all road users interact safely with the road,” Chikunga said.

The Department of Transport, together with provincial and municipal traffic departments, transport agencies such as the Road Traffic Management Corporation, the Road Traffic Infringement Agency, the Cross-Border Road Traffic Agency as well the South African Police Service will conduct road safety operations.

“Heightened operations are to be undertaken from Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Corridor operations will be undertaken during peak travel periods linking at provinces that share borders. Twenty-Four routes, which have recorded a high number of crashes and fatalities in the past will be prioritised,” the Minister said.

In an effort to improve compliance on the roads, law enforcement will deal with motorists who drive without number plates.

“This is generally done by speedsters and people who want to avoid detection by speed cameras. This is defeating the ends of justice, and such vehicles will be stopped and impounded until plates are properly attached.

“We know that our borders have been very busy during the festive seasons in the past and the Cross-Border Road Transport Agency has geared itself to ensure that vehicles coming into and out of our country are compliant with all requirements,” the Minister said.

The following ports of entry will be monitored: Beitbridge in Limpopo, Lebombo in Mpumalanga, Ficksburg in Free State and Golela in KwaZulu-Natal.

“Our relentless commitment to deal with corruption and bribery continues over this period. Our own assessment tells us that corruption relating to the issuing of learner’s licenses and bribery increase around this time. 

“We warn officials and members of the public to desist from corrupt behaviour, which is a major damper to our efforts of maintaining safer roads. Our anti-corruption agents will be deployed and the instruction to them is to show no mercy and arrest both corruptor and corruptee,” she said.

Last year’s crash statistics showed that road traffic crashes decreased during the six weeks of the festive season.

They dropped by 7% from 1395 crashes to 1 299.  On the other hand, fatalities decreased from 1 808 to 1 560.

“Therefore, everyone is called upon to put shoulders to the wheel to ensure a better outcome this season and throughout our 365 Day Road Safety Campaign. It is against the backdrop that we will be intensifying our efforts and interventions in the five province that contribute more than 80% of road crashes and fatalities,” the Minister said.

Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Western Cape, Limpopo and Mpumalanga will receive focused attention this year with nighttime deployment of traffic officers and road safety activations that are intended to improve pedestrian safety.

“Our interventions will be based on a six-point strategy that will guide all provinces in their operations this year. The strategy calls for interventions to deal with pedestrian safety, vehicle roadworthiness, public transport overloading, drunken driving, speeding and execution of warrants.

“Special instructions have been issued for all provincial authorities to conduct public transport inspections of buses and taxis at ranks before they join the freeways, weighbridges to remain open, to ensure height and load compliance.

“Heightened operations are to be undertaken from Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Corridor operations will be undertaken during peak travel periods linking at provinces that share borders,” Chikunga said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Janine
Fri, 12/22/2023 - 08:55

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Read moreLaw enforcement out in numbers to ensure compliance

Starbucks Cresta: A Recent Chapter in Randburg’s Vibrant Coffee Culture

Location: MyPR

December 2023 – Starbucks Cresta: A New Chapter in Randburg’s Vibrant Coffee Culture Johannesburg, South Africa – Starbucks South Africa proudly announced the opening of its latest store in the bustling Cresta Shopping Centre. Under the strategic guidance of Rand Capital Coffee CEO Adrian Maizey, the Cresta store became a landmark destination for coffee enthusiasts …

Read moreStarbucks Cresta: A Recent Chapter in Randburg’s Vibrant Coffee Culture

Minor Hotels Signs Deal for Visionary Safari Experience in Zambia

Location: MyPR

Minor Hotels Signs Deal for Visionary Safari Experience in Zambia Anantara Kafue River Tented Camp to launch in 2025 in Kafue National Park Minor Hotels, an international hotel owner, operator and investor with more than 540 hotels in 56 countries in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian Ocean, Europe and the Americas, is …

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It’s redemption time for Ulster

Location: Sport

Former Ireland star Stephen Ferris believes Ulster will be looking for redemption when they take on Connacht in Belfast on Friday night. The last meeting between the two sides at the Kingspan Stadium saw Ulster go down to a 15-10 home defeat in the Vodacom URC quarter-finals back in May. Ferris will be a Viaplay …

Read moreIt’s redemption time for Ulster

Doddie Aid

Location: Sport

Intercity rivals Edinburgh Rugby and Glasgow Warriors have both thrown their support behind My Name’5 Doddie Foundation and Doddie Aid, with both clubs set to support the charity at the upcoming 1872 Cup derbies. The famous rivals face each other in back-to-back intercity derbies in the coming fortnight, with the opening leg at Scotstoun tomorrow …

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Libbok & Goosen duel for SA Throne

Location: Sport

DHL Stormers flyhalf Manie Libbok has made his former team rue the day they let him go, but in-form Vodacom Bulls counterpart Johan Goosen is primed and ready to erase that memory when the teams clash in Cape Town on Saturday. After four challenging seasons at Loftus Versfeld, Libbok failed to launch in a short …

Read moreLibbok & Goosen duel for SA Throne