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The start of a brand new and much needed international rugby event where the Springbok Women could measure themselves against their peers on a regular basis seemed far away when WXV was mooted many months ago, but now, with their first match in this competition just a couple of days away, the anticipation in the …
In a world where investing in the future is paramount, no investment is more crucial than that in early childhood development. Research¹ has shown that the first one thousand days in a child’s life could hold the key to unlocking their lifelong potential. By age five, almost 90% of a child’s brain is developed, making …
The Local Surf Lounge Academy relies on donations from other surfers. It offers surf lessons to boys from poorer communities
The modern era has ushered in advancements that have reshaped our daily lives. One such innovation is the efficient management and conservation of energy, achieved remarkably through smart home technology. Let’s delve deeper into how this transformation is being made possible. Intelligent Lighting Systems The integration of intuitive systems means no more accidentally leaving …
Public Works to host EPWP Indaba
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala and his deputy Bernice Swarts will on Tuesday host the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Indaba in Pretoria.
The two-day indaba will be an interactive session aimed at the 'reconceptualisation' and 'redesigning' of the ‘EPWP of the Future’.
The indaba will also reflect on the EPWP Phase 4 and plan ahead for Phase 5 of the programme.
“The EPWP Indaba will bring together a host of stakeholders from all spheres of government, civil society and the private sector to brainstorm on the formulation of the EPWP Phase 5 business plan, which will be presented to Cabinet before the end of the year,” the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure said in a statement.
Last year, the DPWI developed the EPWP Policy, which was approved by Cabinet on 31 August 2022 for public consultation.
The EPWP is one of the government’s strategies to alleviate poverty through the creation of work opportunities using labour-intensive methods.
It is implemented in four sectors namely: infrastructure, social, environment and culture, and non-State.
All spheres of government and State-owned entities are expected to implement the programme.
EPWP participants (beneficiaries) work on different projects such as the Community Work Programme (CWP), Early Childhood Development, Home Community Based Care, Extra School Support, Working on Fire, Working for Water and roads maintenance projects, among others.
The development and gazetting of the EPWP policy follows years of extensive engagements by DPWI and various stakeholders who are participating in the implementation of the EPWP.
The purpose of the EPWP Policy is to refocus the Public Employment Programme agenda of government, with policy positions and programmes of action that are clearly defined, implementable and enforceable. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 09:56
In the realm of healthcare, the power of diagnostic imaging cannot be overstated. It’s a critical component in the journey towards accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. Amid this landscape, there is a group of dedicated professionals quietly revolutionizing the field of radiology services. Their mission: to provide top-tier diagnostic imaging solutions that empower healthcare professionals …
Non-profit Mdzananda Animal Clinic turned 27 this weekend
Sip, savour, & celebrate Spring at Clico: the ultimate sundowners and al fresco dining destination The city of Jozi knows how to celebrate life’s vibrant moments, and as the sun begins to cast its warm embrace upon us, it’s time to elevate your after-work rendezvous to new heights. Look no further than the chic and …
New Border Management Authority a boost for SA’s security and development
President Cyril Ramaphosa has used his weekly newsletter to the nation to highlight the importance of the New Border Management Authority (BMA) in boosting the country’s security and development.
The President said that the establishment of the BMA is a significant step towards safer communities, better law enforcement and the growth of the economy through greater trade with the country's neighbours.
President Ramaphosa emphasised that ensuring the borders are well-managed and well-protected is key to the security and development of the country.
“Maintaining the integrity of our country’s borders is key if we are to realise the aspiration of every South African to live in peace and harmony with ourselves and our neighbours.
“It is a daunting undertaking. Our land border is over 4 800 km long and is shared with six countries. We have 53 land ports of entry, 11 international airports and eight sea ports.
“The launch last week of the country’s first integrated, unified Border Management Authority (BMA) is therefore a milestone in the necessary effort to secure our borders,” the President said.
Turning to the challenges faced on our borders, the President said that they are both historical and contemporary.
He highlighted that the apartheid regime flagrantly disregarded the sovereignty of neighbouring countries to conduct illegal cross-border raids.
He added that “it abused immigration measures to harass its opponents, and enforced hated policies like influx control and the exploitation of labour from the region.”
President Ramaphosa told the nation that it then became the priority of the democratic government elected in 1994 to progressively reform the border management and migration regime, not just in the interests of economic growth and development, but also so that these reforms should reflect the broader values of the new state.
“The democratic government has worked to uphold the right of citizens to freedom of movement and residence, as well as the rights of refugees and asylum-seekers under international conventions.
“It also sought to deepen trade and investment between South Africa and other Southern African countries, and contribute to the political and economic integration of the African continent,” he said.
Over time, however, he said, the complexities of border management have resulted in an uncoordinated approach by the various authorities.
He highlighted that one of the challenges has been the sheer number of government departments and entities involved in this work. This includes the absence of a central authority which led to fragmentation of efforts and made it difficult to enforce accountability. This in turn rendered the country’s borders vulnerable.
The UN Office on Drugs and Crime has noted that South Africa has become an important transit route for organised criminal networks involved in human trafficking, drugs and small arms smuggling and various other forms of cross-border crime.
It has also noted that as the economic powerhouse of the region, South Africa continues to attract economic migrants who are undocumented, especially from the SADC region.
The President said that the proliferation of cross-border crime, illicit trade and illegal migration as a result of porous borders presents a serious threat to national security and the economy. He added that it also places strain on already stretched resources and public services, and fuels social instability.
“We have in recent times seen anti-foreigner sentiment resulting in acts of violence and harassment. As a country, we must condemn without reservation all acts of violence against foreign nationals, regardless of their immigration status, and work together to prevent such acts.
“At the same time, we must recognise that South Africans are justifiably concerned about illegal migration. Like any sovereign nation, we have the right to guarantee the integrity of our borders and provide that all who reside in our borders have a legal right to be here.
“Those who have sought refuge in South Africa or wish to live and work here are subject to immigration regulations and must adhere to the country’s laws,” the President said.
The Border Management Authority is tasked with ensuring that the country’s immigration laws are enforced, and that the borders are well-protected and ports of entry well-managed.
The new authority is now the third armed service in South Africa after the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The first officers of the new BMA border guard were deployed in July this year at vulnerable segments of the border, including at informal crossings.
Although they will be conducting border law enforcement functions, including access control, the SANDF remains responsible for border protection and safeguarding.
With this new structure in place, President Ramaphosa said the country will also be able to better prevent the illegal importation and exit of goods, curb illegal migration and human smuggling, and combat cross-border crime.
The BMA will take on the work of several other departments and agencies and is already working with the South African Revenue Service, SAPS and SANDF to integrate border management functions. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 10:14
The streets of Durban will be filled with excitement this coming Sunday, 15 October 2023, as runners and walkers of all ages and fitness backgrounds, from elite athletes to social participants, come together to celebrate the debut of the much-anticipated Boxer Super Run. “The Boxer Super Run welcomes participants of all backgrounds, whether they’re elite …
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Borehole drilling underway in eThekwini
As part of interventions to resolve water challenges, the eThekwini Municipality has started the drilling of boreholes in several wards, particularly in the rural parts of the city.
This follows the recent launch of the borehole project that will see 20 boreholes drilled in areas affected by irregular supply of water.
Launched by eThekwini Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, the project will ensure that residents have access to clean, safe water as an interim measure, while longer term solutions are sought.
“In areas where there is inadequate water infrastructure, the municipality has reprioritised funding for the drilling of boreholes. We are pleased to report that teams have already started drilling boreholes,” Kaunda said.
Kaunda said the wards where the projects have started include Ward 3 in Umzinyathi, Ward 105 in Mfume, Ward 59 in oGunjini, and Ward 108 in the eNyoni and Mkhumbane areas.
Giving an update on the restoration of water supply in uMhlanga, Durban North and surrounding areas, Kaunda said as a proactive and preventative measure, the municipal teams will be installing pressure gauges at strategic points on the bulk aqueduct pipeline.
“They will link this up with our telemetry system where we monitor the reservoir levels. We have also approached the South African Police Service to speed up the investigation on the criminal case of sabotage the municipality has opened,” Kaunda said.
The Mayor also reported that the sanitation technical teams continue to work around the clock to ensure all beaches are open during the festive season and beyond.
Kaunda said there is a collaborative effort between the scientific services and the mechanical and wastewater network departments to clearly identify the sources for any identified coastal pollution.
“It is important for the public to know that the pollution of beaches is caused by a combination of factors including pump failure, load shedding, vandalism or poor network infrastructure.
“Therefore, the streamlining of our processes has resulted in us being able to prioritise and track non-functioning infrastructure on a daily basis to ensure repairs are effected promptly,” Kaunda said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 10:21
Take The Work Out of Recycling, By Recycling at Work. Our children hold more wisdom than we can imagine, especially when it comes to protecting the environment. Children across the country have therefore embraced the importance of recycling used plastic packaging. ‘Return The Favour. Recycle Your Plastics.’, a campaign launched by Polyco in 2022, demonstrated …
In a world filled with hustle and bustle, where cars are an essential part of our daily lives, having a reliable service centre is like having a trusted friend who always has your back. RS Services service centre understands this, and they have been that friend for countless vehicle owners, providing top-notch car services that …
Entrepreneurial sisters venture into US market
It was a drive to explore international trade that saw entrepreneurial sisters, Michelle and Mo Mokone, grabbing an opportunity to venture into the United States of America market.
The pair are the co-owners of Mo’s Crib, a company that produces a range of handmade home décor products.
Their product range includes handwoven baskets, planters, trays, wall art and home outdoor items. It was in 2021 that the pair decided to take advantage of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a United States Trade Act, which was enacted in May 2000.
AGOA allows 35 qualifying Sub-Saharan countries to export 1 835 tariff lines - duty-free - to a significant consumer market in the US.
Michelle Mokone, who is the Operations and Supply Chain Director of Mo’s Crib, says their products are manufactured from unique materials such as ultra-durable polyvinyl chloride plastic, reclaimed from landfills and construction sites throughout South Africa, and various types of grass.
All this is underpinned by a particular interest in the protection of the environment.
“Our mission is to leverage the craftsmanship of South African artisans to help accelerate awareness about the most pressing environmental and social issues faced today.
“With every sale, we are creating economic and educational opportunities for South African men and women, while diverting plastic waste from the natural resources of our hometown of Pretoria,” Michelle said.
In addition to safeguarding the natural environment, the Mokone sisters are deeply committed to the development of the people in their community.
“We are striving to create opportunities and make a meaningful impact. We would like to grow our footprint beyond the USA and enter new markets, such as Europe and the United Arab Emirates. We have our own internal plan to create 20 new jobs within the next two to three years,” Michelle said.
She said a forwarding agent assisted them with the compliance and administration process to booking various containers.
“Since 2021, we have shipped a total of eight containers to the USA. We are on track to ship two more containers before year end of 2023. We also regularly ship a container to fulfil our orders for our online store, which is fulfilled through our warehouse in New Jersey.
“Although shipping is relatively expensive, especially for a small business that is 100% self-funded, we have benefited from the AGOA Act through significant market access. Currently, the USA orders constitute 60% of our overall revenue,” she said.
South Africa is working to secure a renewal and extension of AGOA, including through direct engagement between government and business representatives, as well as with members of the US Senate and Congress across party-political lines.
During a recent parliamentary briefing, Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel, told Members of Parliament that South Africa’s participation in AGOA benefits neighbouring countries through shared value chains. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 10:54
In the realm of Jewish scholarship and spiritual guidance, few names shine as brightly as Rabbi Dr. Akiva Tatz. With a wealth of knowledge, a compassionate heart, and an unwavering commitment to the teachings of Torah, he has become a cherished figure in the global Jewish community. About us. A Voice That Resonates: Audio …
Government could face court action for failing in its constitutional duty
In the heart of South Africa, where history, culture, and vibrant communities converge, Mashaba Tours stands as a bridge to the past and a gateway to understanding the present. With a diverse range of tour options, they offer an immersive experience that reveals the intricate layers of Soweto and Johannesburg’s history and culture. More info …
Moove rolls out R284m Investment Conference pledge
Moove, a mobility financial technology (fintech) company, has rolled out a R284 million investment, which it pledged at the fifth South African Investment Conference hosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa in April 2023.
As an impact driven fintech, Moove exists to provide financial services to those who are unbanked or underserved by traditional lenders, so they can obtain revenue-based financing and access a path to asset ownership and financial stability.
It does this by embedding its alternative credit scoring technology onto ride-hailing, logistics, mass transit, and instant delivery platforms, using proprietary performance and revenue analytics to underwrite customers that have previously been excluded from financial services.
“The pledged amount of R284 million was invested in the purchase of more than 2 000 vehicles in Cape Town and Johannesburg.
“These vehicles were deployed to mobility entrepreneurs operating in these cities. Further investment of R300 million will soon be allocated to the purchase of 1 400 new vehicles, with further funding and vehicle allocation taking place in 2024,” said the Managing Director of Moove South Africa, Warren Peters.
Peters said the initial investment created over 2 000 jobs across mobility entrepreneurs, Moove employees and the technical resources employed at dealerships in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
“We anticipate future funding to create opportunities for an additional 1 400 mobility entrepreneurs and an estimated 50 additional jobs through our network of partners and service providers,” Peters said.
The investment, Peters said, allows Moove to offer financial inclusion to mobility entrepreneurs. It creates opportunities for deserving South Africans, who are currently excluded from access to certain financial services, and who aspire to become mobility entrepreneurs and asset owners.
Moove operates in various cities across Africa, the Middle East, Europe and India. These include Lagos, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Dubai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Mumbai and London. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 14:44
A forward-looking panel at Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) 2023 (https://CriticalMineralsAfrica.com/) will explore how technology, sustainable practices and localization can ensure stable and secure critical minerals supplies, under the theme, The Future Minerals Economy and the Resilience of Supply Chains.
Panelists include Dr. Marit Y. Kitaw, Interim Director of the African Minerals Development Center (AMDC), Ethiopia; Deshan Naido, Managing Director of AQORA, South Africa; Duma Sisulu, Co-Founder & Chief Analyst at Parime Battery Minerals, South Africa; Alex Benkenstein, Head of the Climate and Natural Resources Program at the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA); and Kwasi Ampofo, Head of Metals and Mining at BloombergNEF. The panel will be moderated by Olimpia Pilch, Founder and Chief Operating Officer of the Critical Minerals International Alliance, UK.
As demand changes and complexities increase, African and global mineral supply chains are undergoing several transformations to better manage supply disruptions and price fluctuations, from adopting digitalization to strengthening local and regional outputs. The panel will explore how market instability – triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia-Ukraine war – has accelerated the need for localized supply chains and how African countries can ensure their demand for critical and industrial minerals is met, while foreign markets like the US and Europe seek to secure their own supplies.
The panel will evaluate the strength of Africa's existing local and regional supply chains, strategies for improving operational efficiencies and the role of cross-border cooperation and partnerships in ensuring supply chain stability and resilience. Discussions will also address best practices for decarbonizing mining activities and how circular economy principles can be integrated to maximize resource efficiency and minimize waste, with a view to establishing green supply chains of the future.
Other key developments in the critical minerals space include mining companies diversifying their operations across multiple sectors, while fostering synergy among mining, energy, and oil and gas in the quest for transition minerals. As the sole high-level, dedicated summit for African critical minerals, CMA 2023 will bring these discussions to the forefront, as Africa emerges at the center of global hub activities.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
The Critical Minerals Africa 2023 summit on October 17-19 serves to position Africa as the primary investment destination for critical minerals. The event is organized by Energy Capital & Power and held alongside the African Energy Week 2023 conference (https://AECWeek.com) on October 16-20, offering delegates access to the full scope of energy, mining and finance leaders in Cape Town.
Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com
The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) has launched a new data portal that gives its members access to periodic data about solar installations across the country. The project, in collaboration with GEOTERRAIMAGE (GTI), was launched this week. GTI leveraged years of expertise in satellite image interpretation and analysis to develop advanced machine learning methods …
World Rugby has revealed that the 23rd edition of the annual World Rugby Awards will be staged at the prestigious Opéra Garnier in Paris on Sunday, 29 October – the evening following the final of Rugby World Cup 2023 at Stade de France. The glittering event, which brings together the leading figures of the global …
In the intricate world of automobiles, every journey begins with the sum of its parts. As vehicles propel us forward, it’s the unseen components and mechanisms that ensure a smooth and safe ride. Start My Car, a haven for car enthusiasts and mechanics alike, understands the importance of these elements. Let’s embark on a journey …
Human Settlements launches Title Deeds Friday
Human Settlements Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has called on public servants and representatives - together with the relevant institutions - to work around the clock to fast track the processing and issuing of title deeds to the rightful beneficiaries.
Kubayi made the call at the handing over of title deeds at Mabopane Sports Complex in Tshwane on Friday.
The event formed part of the launch of Title Deeds Friday campaign aimed at mobilising beneficiaries of government-subsidised homes -- Breaking New Ground (BNG) -- to collect their title deeds at municipal offices.
Kubayi, who was accompanied by Deputy Minister Pam Tshwete; Tshwane Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Human Settlements, Ofentse Madzabatela, and local councillors handed over title deeds to some community members of Mabopane, Winterveld and Ga-Rankuwa (MAWIGA), north of Tshwane.
The community members of MAWIGA have been advocating to be recognised as the rightful owners of houses located around Ga-Rankuwa, Mabopane, Kudube and Winterveldt.
The Minister declared MAWIGA a Ministerial Project and established a committee with the community to resolve the ownership and transfer for 8 000 uncontested properties held by the City of Tshwane.
The over 14 000 properties, including contested ones, date back to pre-1994.
During the event, Kubayi provided feedback to the community on the roll-out status. She said a phased approach has been adopted to avoid keeping communities waiting due to red tape and intergovernmental disputes.
Kubayi said government has declared war on the title deeds backlog, particularly as President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised the need to get rid of red tape within the State.
“We are deliberately launching this campaign here in MAWIGA to re-emphasise our message that as a government, we have heard the cries of this community and others, who are yet to receive their title deeds. Every parent deserves to know that his or her children have a place to call home.
“These title deeds are legal documents that assure you these properties are yours. Today, you can be at peace that the houses you have lived in and raised your families in over the years are yours and are valuable assets to hand over to future generations,” Kubayi said.
She said the handing over of title deeds is also a testament that “when government partners with community members, nothing is impossible to achieve”.
The MAWIGA Ministerial Project was declared in 2022, with a committee established and tasked with the responsibility of facilitating the transfer of uncontested properties to the rightful owners.
Kubayi said government is using MAWIGA to showcase the importance of working together with the community to resolve their challenges.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Moota Mfulwane, said they are happy that finally, working together with government, they made some breakthroughs.
“Although some of those who were also waiting for this day have since unfortunately passed on, we are hoping as a community that the targeted handover of 14 000 title deeds will be realised,” Mfulwane said.
Meanwhile, the Ministry has undertaken to convene an urgent meeting with municipalities to unlock existing bottlenecks.
Kubayi said interventions are required, working with all three spheres of government, including the urgent establishment of townships to pave the way for the registration of title deeds.
The Minster made a call to all councillors to champion the Title Deeds Friday campaign by working with municipal officials to issue all title deeds on hand. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 11:13