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In the face of persistent load shedding, individuals and communities around the world are seeking innovative strategies to maintain a consistent power supply. Load shedding, the controlled shutdown of electricity, often due to high demand or infrastructure limitations, can disrupt daily life and have a significant impact on various sectors, including residential, commercial, and industrial. …
President Cyril Ramaphosa has, as Commander-in-Chief of the nation's armed forces, expressed his sadness at the death of six soldiers who died in a Northern Cape fire that struck the SA Army Combat Training Centre at the Lohatla military base. The troops were part of a military exercise named Vukuhlome.
The South African National Defence Force announced on Saturday, 07 October that a wildfire that had originated in Khathu in the Gamagara local municipality had reached the military base where six soldiers died in the blaze while three were injured and the army lost equipment including vehicles.
President Ramaphosa offers his deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased SANDF members.
The President wishes the injured SANDF members a speedy and comfortable recovery and his thoughts are with survivors who witnessed this tragedy.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.
Wait for it…AfricaIgnite, formerly AHUB, Africa Tech Festival's (https://tmt.knect365.com/Africa-Tech-Festival/) flagship event for the African continent's start-ups and innovators, has been announced as the host for the African leg of the globally prestigious Start-Up World Cup 2023, and 10 African start-ups will have the opportunity to pitch for a spot at the grand finale to be held in San Francisco, USA on 1 December 2023.
USD1 million up for grabs – The AfricaIgnite Start-up Pitch showcase will take place at Africa Tech Festival in November in Cape Town, South Africa. To enter, African early-stage start-ups and scale-ups with seed fundings of up to $15million will need to apply (https://apo-opa.info/3PGV3Lz) by 15 October. The finalists, to be unveiled on 30 October, will then need to make their way to Cape Town and pitch in front of hundreds of investors and tech leaders on 16 November.
The winner of Africa Tech Festival's pitch competition will then be invited to compete in the grand finale of the Startup World Cup, to be held in San Francisco on 1 December, for that impressive 1 million US dollar investment, in front of industry greats such as ABC's Shark Tank Barbara Corcoran, Sundeep Jain, Chief Product Officer at Uber, Daniel Sturman CTO at Roblox and more.
Since launching in 2016, the festival's start-up platform has been committed to supporting the growth of Africa's nascent entrepreneurs and innovators. The interest in the offering has grown significantly to the point where AfricaIgnite has now taken on a life-force of its own.
James Williams, Director, Events | Connecting Africa | Informa Tech: “Africa's bright and forward-thinking minds need a platform to network, get inspired, and co-build a stronger tech start-Up investment ecosystem, which is exactly what AfricaIgnite offers. As Africa Tech Festival, we are excited to be partnering with The Startup World Cup to offer our African colleagues the opportunity they deserve to present their businesses on a global stage. This is a very exciting partnership, and the first, we hope, of many as the continent's innovation sector gathers momentum.”
Investment by the numbers
In 2022, Africa was the only region where start-up investment grew with around USD4.8 billion put into around 1,000 businesses. That said though, this sum still only represents a paltry 1.2% of all start-up funding raised globally. However, this is predicted to change quite rapidly in the years ahead as the continent's entrepreneur, start-up and SMME ecosystem fully embraces the digital revolution and connectivity, whilst Africans create the solutions to many of their own, and the world's challenges.
In the 2021 – 2022 period, 37% of investment was channelled to the FinTech space, but its dominance is now being challenged by innovation and new business ideas that solve Africa's energy and waste difficulties. Other sectors that are attracting interest also include the likes of the telecoms, media and entertainment space, logistics and transport, retail, agriculture, and food, as well as the growing proliferation of deep tech.
“We are very happy to partner up with AfricaTech Festival for the Startup World Cup South Africa Regional and are delighted by the quality and enthusiasm of the start-ups who are competing,” said Anis Uzzaman, Founder and CEO of Pegasus Tech Ventures, who created the Startup World Cup competition in 2016. “Each year we have been able to reach more entrepreneurs in more cities around the world and, in turn, connect more innovation ecosystems to Silicon Valley and the rest of the world.
“We hope this partnership creates new valuable opportunities for the competing start-ups from Africa.”
In good company
Africa Tech Festival also holds its own when it comes to the investor community, with databases of several thousand investors and venture capitalists predominantly spanning Africa and the United States, as well as a strong community of founders, entrepreneurs, and start-ups.
Aside from the exciting early-stage start-up Pitch Showcase, AfricaIgnite in 2023 is looking to up the ante with a curation of content that is exciting, informative, and definitely going to take participants places. The AfricaIgnite space located in the AfricaTech Hall will be a centre of activity with an offering of excellent networking and matchmaking between founders and investors, a start-up marketplace and demo area (no pitching required), along with a host of dedicated workshops and masterclasses presented by top professionals.
Delegates, start-ups, and those considering taking a leap of faith into the new world of business, can explore content that covers useful topics such as what to expect from year one as a founder – what to do, get good at and what to ignore; the power of collaboration in building a global company; perfecting the next “X”-tech for future generations; founding, funding and running your start-up in economically challenging times; concept to company – demystifying the entrepreneurial process plus a raft of funding talks and presentations, as well as the all-important insight into exit planning 101!
Never has the time been more right to head to Cape Town 13 – 16 November to be part of the action at Africa Tech Festival, the world's largest and most influential Africa-focused technology, telecoms, and media gathering. In 2023, expect big things to happen in this space.
For more information, please see website here: Africa Tech Festival 2023 - The Home of AfricaCom & AfricaTech (https://apo-opa.info/3myppVu)
To apply for the pitch competition, please click here: Africa Tech Festival 2023 – pitch competition (https://apo-opa.info/3PGV3Lz)
View all ticket options for Africa Tech Festival, including start-up passes, here (https://apo-opa.info/3Q04o2r)
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Tech Festival.
For media enquiries, interviews and/or images please contact:
Kaz Henderson
kaz@networxpr.co.za or call on +27 (0) 82 339 1199.
(Please note that all requests are adjudicated and there may be some delay before you hear back from us).
Social Media Handles:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.info/3LIdCxG
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LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.info/3EcywR6
About Startup World Cup:
Startup World Cup is a global conference and competition with the goal of bridging start-up ecosystems worldwide. The competition gives start-up companies from all over the world a chance to win a US $1,000,000 prize in the form of an investment. This year, there will be 50+ regional events across North America, South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia, leading up to the Grand Finale in San Francisco in September. Startup World Cup is organized by Pegasus Tech Ventures, a Silicon Valley-based global venture capital firm.
About Africa Tech Festival 2023:
Africa Tech Festival, including anchor events AfricaCom, AfricaTech and AfricaIgnite is part of the Informa Tech Connecting Africa event series. A vibrant celebration of Africa's diverse community of tech champions, Africa Tech Festival is the largest tech and digital connectivity conference and exhibition in Africa, attracting hundreds of exhibitors, more than 400 speakers and more than 12000 delegates.
Key themes for 2023 continue to explore the creation and sustainability of a connected Africa and the impact this can have for the people of the continent but also the commercial prospects for local and global businesses and governments. Topics will include Telcos of Tomorrow, Connecting the Next Billion, Digital Infrastructure Investment, Sustainability & Climate Resilience, ICT Policy and Regulation, Fintech & MFS, Broadcast Media & Entertainment, Pioneer Tech, the Future of Work and Talent and Skills Development. Africa Tech Festival also incorporates and the Africa Tech Festival Awards, an exclusive ceremony celebrating Africa's tech pioneers and held at the luxury 5-star The Bay Hotel, as well as the LeadersIn Africa Summit, an exclusive, VIP-only feature offering high-level presentations and roundtable discussions to Africa's tech elite.
President Ramaphosa mourns soldiers who perished in military base fire
As the Commander-in-Chief of the nation’s armed forces, President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his profound sadness at the the deaths of six soldiers who died in a Northern Cape fire.
This comes after a blaze that struck the SA Army Combat Training Centre at the Lohatla military base on Friday.
The troops, according to the Presidency, were part of a military exercise named Vukuhlome.
“The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) announced on Saturday that a wildfire that had originated in Khathu in the Gamagara Local Municipality had reached the military base where six soldiers died in the blaze while three were injured and the army lost equipment including vehicles,” said the Presidency on Sunday.
President Ramaphosa has since offered his deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased SANDF members.
“The President wishes the injured SANDF members a speedy and comfortable recovery and his thoughts are with survivors who witnessed this tragedy,” said the Presidency. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 10/08/2023 - 11:15
Sri Lanka have been fined 10 per cent of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against South Africa in the Match 4 of ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup on Saturday, 7 October 2023. Javagal Srinath of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanction after Dasun Shanaka’s side was ruled …
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) is taking decisive action to address the ANC government’s failure to meet the deadline for amending the outdated Drug-Free Sport Act to comply with the latest World Anti-Doping Code (WADA). In a letter addressed to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the DA formally communicates its concerns regarding the continued …
They have prepared as well as possible and apart from a few unfortunate injuries along the way, the Springbok Women will enter the inaugural WXV 2 with much anticipation and excitement, ready to use the opportunity to test themselves against some formidable competition. That is the view of Springbok Women head coach Louis Koen after …
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) condemns Hamas’ unprovoked attack on Israeli territory today during the religious holiday of Simchat Torah. The DA urgently calls on the Department of International Relations and Cooperation to unequivocally condemn this unprovoked attack and join the international community in their calls for an immediate end to this rapidly escalating …
Condolences for Eswatini top cop
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has announced the passing of Eswatini Police Commissioner William Dlamini, who passed away on Saturday morning at OR Tambo International Airport.
The top cop, according to a SAPS statement, was in transit to Eswatini from Angola where he attended the 26th Interpol African Regional Conference.
“The Commissioner collapsed and died at the airport. Both the family and the delegation that accompanied the late Commissioner on his official trip have received psychosocial services from psychologists attached to the SAPS Employee Health and Wellness unit,” the statement read.
National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, has since on behalf of the SAPS sent his condolences to the Royal Eswatini Police Service as well as the family of Dlamini.
Masemola described Dlamini as a soft-spoken and committed senior police officer who was dedicated to enhancing cooperation to counter transnational organised crime in the region.
“Our sincerest condolences to the Royal Eswatini Police Service and the family of the late Commissioner. Commissioner Dlamini was humble and dedicated to the cause of serving.
“He was always available to discuss collaboration in preventing and combating cross-border crime in the SADC region. The SAPS is providing the necessary support in line with its expertise through its Interpol office,” said Masemola.
Police at the airport have also registered an inquest docket to determine the cause of death. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 10/08/2023 - 12:06
SA calls for end to violence between Israel, Palestine
South Africa has called for the immediate cessation of violence, restraint, and peace between Israel and Palestine.
According to a Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) statement, South Africa is gravely concerned over the recent devastating escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
“The new conflagration has arisen from the continued illegal occupation of Palestine land, continued settlement expansion, desecration of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Christian holy sites, and ongoing oppression of the Palestinian people,” the department said on Saturday.
The region, according to DIRCO, is in desperate need of a credible peace process that delivers on the calls of a “plethora” of previous United Nations (UN) resolutions for a two-state solution and a just and comprehensive peace between Israel and Palestine.
“South Africa, working together with the international community, seeks to ensure a lasting and durable peace that produces a viable, contiguous Palestinian State, existing side-by-side in peace with Israel, within the 1967 internationally recognised borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.”
The department believes that the UN resolutions and international law matter.
“The international community cannot avoid its duty to act, and together, we must shoulder the responsibility to remove obstacles to peace and any violations of international law.”
The department said violence, killings, imprisonment, forced removals, illegal settlements, and the continued siege of Gaza are not conducive to resolving the conflict.
“Urgent attention must be given to resolving the final status issues such as borders, the status of Jerusalem, the release of political prisoners, and the right of return.
“No real and lasting peace in Israel, Palestine, and the region is possible in the absence of a just and comprehensive resolution of the conflict. Israelis, Palestinians, and the region do not stand to gain anything from escalated tensions, increased violence, growing instability, and a continued and protracted violent conflict.”
The department has since called on all sides to seize the opportunity for peace as opposed to violence, and for the international community to actively rise on the side of its international resolutions and establish a credible peace process.
“South Africa stands ready to share its experience in mediation and conflict resolution as it has done on the continent and around the world.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 10/08/2023 - 12:47
Phaahla to lead World Mental Health Day commemoration
Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, will on Tuesday lead the World Mental Health Day commemorative event in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal.
The day will help improve knowledge, raise awareness and drive actions that promote and protect everyone’s mental health as a universal human right.
Phaahla will be joined by the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Health Nomagugu Simelane, World Health Organisation’s Country Director Dr Owen Kaluwa, representatives from human rights bodies and local leaders.
The 2023 campaign will be commemorated under the theme “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right” theme, which serves as a clarion call for countries to improve access to quality mental health services and ensure that the human rights and well-being of people with mental disorders are respected and upheld.
The Department of Health has called on communities and organisations to create an enabling environment for people to openly discuss mental health challenges and share experiences to help break down barriers.
According to the department, this will also encourage health-seeking behaviour for early diagnosis and effective management.
“Stigma and discrimination can make mental health problems worse and delay a person from seeking help they need to recover,” it said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 10/08/2023 - 13:33
Eskom suspends load shedding
Due to improved generation performance, load shedding will remain suspended until 4pm on Monday, Eskom said.
Thereafter, Stage 2 load shedding will be implemented from 4pm until 5am on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, the state-owned power utility said load shedding will then be suspended from 5am until 4pm on Tuesday.
“This pattern of suspending load shedding from 5am until 4pm and implementing Stage 2 load shedding from 4pm until 5 am, will be repeated daily until further notice. Eskom will communicate should any significant changes, “said Eskom in an update on Sunday. – SAnewsgov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 10/08/2023 - 13:15
President Ramaphosa to receive Census 2022 results
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to receive South Africa's Census 2022 national results from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA).
The Statistician-General, Risenga Maluleke, will officially hand over the report to the President and announce the results of the population and housing count to the country at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Tuesday
Census 2022, according to the Presidency, was the fourth population and housing count in post-apartheid South Africa, with the first conducted in 1996, with subsequent censuses being conducted in 2001 and 2011.
The population and housing census was conducted in February 2022 and will provide comprehensive data on population size, demographic trends, and other service delivery-related information.
Stats SA will be following the trend adopted by many countries and data will be released in phases.
For phase one, the Census 2022 launch will only cover reports and indicators at the national, provincial, district and local municipality levels.
“Census data is an important data source used for planning and evidence-based decision making by government and various sectors of society.
“The census population count provides data on the demographic, economic and social makeup of the country. Furthermore, findings from censuses are key in tracking service delivery programmes over time," said the Presidency. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 10/08/2023 - 11:24
Are you teaching your children about a good breakfast? Thembile Nyathi, an 11-year-old learner at Leresche Primary in Orlando East, Soweto, has captured hearts and brought smiles to faces with his heart-warming interview of his father, as part of the Rama Good Breakfast Programme. In this video, Thembile’s father, Silingo, candidly discusses his breakfast choices, …
Leading food company, wholly-owned by PepsiCo South Africa, FUTURELIFE®, today celebrated the grand opening of its new cutting-edge manufacturing facility at Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone (SEZ), in Kwa-Zulu Natal. This event brought together key government officials, business leaders, and FUTURELIFE® employees. The opening of the facility showcases FUTURELIFE®’s resilience, innovation, and steadfast commitment to …
CAPE TOWN – FUTURELIFE®, a leading health and wellness brand, is excited to announce the grand opening of its second concept store, set to make waves in Canal Walk, Cape Town. Building upon the resounding success of its inaugural store in Umhlanga’s Oceans Mall, this new establishment redefines health and wellness retail while offering a …
Imagine a world where the boundaries of luxury expand far beyond what you thought possible. Picture yourself in a floating hotel, a majestic vessel that takes you to exotic destinations, offering unparalleled indulgence and convenience. For many, a cruise has long occupied a coveted spot on their bucket lists, often seen as an experience reserved …
Naka Bulle scored eight tries in their 56-29 victory (half-time 35-10) over Heineken College Rovers in Pretoria on Saturday to clinch the African Rainbow Community Gold Cup title for the first time. The Gold Cup tournament resumed last month, following a long COVID-enforced hiatus. After four action-packed rounds featuring 32 of South Africa’s top clubs, …
Dear Editor Minister for Social Development, Lindiwe Zulu’s response to a parliamentary written question from the DA, leans towards the inevitable extension of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) gold card expiry date if she wishes to avoid further embarrassment and national panic and chaos. With less than three months left before approximately 5.3 …
Dear Editor Revelations that the Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Amos Masondo allegedly misled Parliament over the salary of the Secretary to Parliament should be urgently investigated. The Sunday Times has revealed that despite the position of the Secretary to Parliament being priced at a …
In the fast-paced world of business, time is of the essence, and every moment counts. That’s why it’s essential to have the right tools in place to streamline your operations and make the most of your valuable time. One such tool that’s revolutionizing document management in South Africa is PaperTrail. About Us. Spend Less …
In a world where environmental consciousness is no longer just a buzzword, but a necessity, Neutralise stands as a beacon of purpose-driven innovation, ready to shape a future that’s led by sustainability. This South African company is on a mission to help individuals and businesses alike offset their carbon emissions and contribute to a prosperous …
I. Introduction In the digital age, every business understands the relevance of being visible online. But with search engines constantly updating and refining their algorithms, the landscape of Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) grows more intricate by the day. How does one keep up? II. The Importance of Expertise SEO is not just about inserting a …
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) has become an integral part of any business’s digital marketing strategy. In a world where online visibility can make or break a brand, it’s vital to invest in the right SEO package. In South Africa, with its diverse landscape and unique regional characteristics, SEO services have been tailored to cater to …