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Increased police visibility on Mabopane freeway to deal with armed robberies

Location: News

Increased police visibility on Mabopane freeway to deal with armed robberies

Gauteng Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Elias Mawela has mobilised extra resources to crackdown on robberies on the Mabopane highway following a blockade of the road on Tuesday by community members.

Residents had raised concerns about the high incidence of crime on that stretch of the road.

On Wednesday, a team from the Organised Crime Unit conducted an operation in the area with the aim of targeting the alleged robbers.

One of the members stopped next to the road under the pretense of relieving himself while the others were doing surveillance. As he walked towards the trees, two men emerged from the tunnel that runs under the R80 with firearms pointing at the member. The members on surveillance swiftly reacted and pounced on the suspects.

The suspects had a backpack with two jackets and two different hats suspected to be used as a change clothes after robberies. The firearms were also established to be toy guns.

A preliminary investigation led the members to an address where they found a woman who confirmed that she bought the cellphone from one of the suspects and she pointed the police to another woman who also allegedly bought a cellphone from the same suspect.

The two women were arrested for possession of suspected stolen property

Lt Gen Mawela applauded the members for their swift response and assured the public that the police will continue to deal decisively with crime in the province.

The suspects are expected to appear before court soon and police investigations continue.

The public has been encouraged to be vigilant when using that road and not to stop next to the freeway but rather drive to the nearest filling station. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 09:51

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Read moreIncreased police visibility on Mabopane freeway to deal with armed robberies

Awareness drive intensified after Soweto poisoning incident

Location: News

Awareness drive intensified after Soweto poisoning incident

The Gauteng Health Department's Outbreak Response team has committed to intensify its awareness drive following a food poisoning incident in Soweto. 

This comes after Neo Khang and Katlego Mbatha, both six years old, lost their lives after they ate biscuits and juice bought from a local shop on Sunday. 

Meanwhile, a three-year-old boy is recovering well from home, while two are currently admitted at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital. 

“A four-year-old male who is recovering well and is due for discharge and a six-year-old girl who remains critical but stable in ICU.”

On Tuesday and Wednesday, the response team visited the affected families to provide support and counselling and to conduct further investigations.

They also spent time at Naledi and surrounding areas engaging locals and conducting health education about food handling, preparation, storage and food safety. 

They also shared the importance of checking food expiry labels, and hand washing before handling food and sensitising them on what to do when presenting with food poisoning symptoms. 

These include cramping, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea. 

“The health education also covered spaza shops in the area and includes checking compliance in terms of the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act and food labelling regulations.”

Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko has since passed her condolences to the families that have lost their children and wished a speedy recovery to those who are still receiving medical care. 

“The tragic incident is another painful reminder that we must do more to ensure greater public awareness and increase the level of alertness when it comes to the foodstuffs communities are exposed to,” she said.

The department is urging the public to visit their nearest health facilities when they present with symptoms such as vomiting, sudden chest pains, body aches, fever or foam in the mouth.

The outbreak response team comprised of health inspectors from the municipality and the province, Ward-Based Outreach Teams, Communicable Disease Control specialists, Surveillance Officers, Infection Control and Health Promoters will continue to conduct awareness campaigns in Naledi and surrounding areas on Thursday and Friday. 

“The police have since taken samples for further processing. The source of the food poisoning is not confirmed subject to the police investigation.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 12:38

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Read moreAwareness drive intensified after Soweto poisoning incident

Work underway to recover Germiston to Joburg rail line

Location: News

Work underway to recover Germiston to Joburg rail line

The Gauteng Infrastructure team is working on recovering the Germiston to Johannesburg rail line following the collapse of a footbridge, said the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA).

Two pedestrians were reported to be injured when the steel footbridge collapsed on Wednesday. They were taken to a nearby hospital.

“This work follows the removal of parts of the bridge and debris from the perway/main tracks. The remaining parts of the bridge and debris will be removed today,” the agency said on Thursday.

The team started the recovery work on Wednesday evening, working into the early hours of Thursday morning.

PRASA said it is pleased with the progress made in recovering the infrastructure so it can resume services, which is expected within the next 24-48 hours.

An investigation into what led to the collapse is underway. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 13:00

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Read moreWork underway to recover Germiston to Joburg rail line

Educators honoured at National Teaching Awards

Location: News

Educators honoured at National Teaching Awards

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has reaffirmed government’s commitment to reinforcing teacher support and prioritising the professional growth of those who are the key drivers of basic education. 

On behalf of the nation's people, the Deputy President saluted all teachers for their commendable and unparalleled contributions. 

“Acknowledging that teaching is a labour of love and passion, as Government we are committed to reinforcing teacher support, and prioritising the professional growth of the women and men who are key drivers of basic education. 

“Such a posture is critical in that it boosts their personal prowess and propels our schools towards unparalleled achievements. The wellness of all public servants in the Department of Basic Education must as such remain a priority, " he said. 

The Deputy President was delivering remarks at the National Teachers’ Awards, held at the Hatfield Christian Church in Thaba Tshwane, Pretoria on Thursday.

This year marks 23 years since the first National Teachers’ Awards took place as spearheaded by the former Minister of Education, the late Professor Kader Asmal. 

Mashatile said the awards will always serve as a reminder of the contributions of Professor Asmal to social transformation in South Africa, to the extent that the Lifetime Achievement Award is named after him. 

The Deputy President used his address to recognise the daily achievements of teachers who quietly inspire students to overcome obstacles in life by believing in them, igniting a passion for learning in young, bright minds, and quietly planting the seeds of optimism for a better future in the classroom.

He said these are the triumphs that may not always make headlines, but carry children and youth towards the kind of prosperous society that we all envisage. 

“In celebrating our teachers today, let us therefore renew our commitment to supporting them in every possible way, for in their success lies the success of our nation,” he said. 

The Deputy President highlighted that unemployment, poverty and inequality are the three main challenges that plaque society today, adding that youth, women and other marginalised groups bear the brunt of these.

It is therefore, he said, the government’s responsibility to ensure that its policies are aligned across various departmental priorities.

“Our commitment to building a brighter future for our children is unwavering. We have taken note of the challenges, particularly concerning reports that our young learners struggle to read for meaning. A fundamental aspect of improving our education system hinges upon building robust foundations of literacy and numeracy from the earliest ages,” he said.  

Mashatile highlighted that the system shift of Early Childhood Development (ECD) from the Department of Social Development to Basic Education is a testament to governmnet’s dedication to this cause. 

He said this offers a ripe opportunity to instil these foundational competencies right from the early stages of education. 

Turning to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Mashatile said it presents both challenges and opportunities for us. 

With the introduction of avant-garde subjects like Coding, Robotics, Data Analytics, and Science Technology, he said government aims to keep South Africa at the forefront of global innovation. 

“Our fervent belief is that by equipping our learners with these competencies, we're not only making them globally competitive but are also paving the way for a technologically advanced and prosperous nation.

“We recognise that our teachers must be equally adept and updated to achieve this. We've begun substantial investments in training programmes to ensure our educators are well-versed with emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and others.

“By doing this, we aim to cultivate a symbiotic growth pattern where our educators and learners evolve together, harnessing the boundless potential of the digital age,” he said. 

Turning to climate change and the recent climatic disasters, the Deputy President said these events and others highlight the urgent need for environmental education and training in order to equip communities with the requisite skills and capacity to both respond to, and prepare for the inevitability of climate disasters. 

He emphasised that education has an important role in raising awareness and changing behaviour. Globally, educators are tasked with the monumental role of raising awareness about climate change and nurturing a proactive generation in finding solutions. 

“As we charter our course into this new era, the importance of a well-rounded, technologically adept, and socially responsible education cannot be emphasised enough. 

“And at the heart of this mission are all the teachers of our country - those of you honoured today, and those who also dedicate themselves in earnest to the development of our children and youth through education. Let us continue on this journey, hand in hand, as we mould future generations that are equipped, empowered, and enlightened,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

DikelediM
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 13:57

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Read moreEducators honoured at National Teaching Awards

Critical Minerals Africa Summit to Explore Current Investment Landscape

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

A dynamic panel discussion on the second day of the Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) 2023 summit will explore the current landscape for investing in Africa's critical minerals sector, as the global energy transition, geopolitical considerations and supply chain disruptions continue to impact the development of new projects.  

Under the theme, Investing in African Critical Minerals and Rare Earths Projects Today, the panel will address the challenges, opportunities and strategies associated with investing in Africa's critical minerals – and specifically, the Rare Earth Elements (REE) – sector, providing unparalleled insights into the region's resource potential and its role in meeting rising demand for these essential resources. 

Panelists include Jude Kearney, Chair of the Sub-Saharan Africa Committee for the Export-Import Bank of the United States and Managing Partner of ASAFO & Co., US Office; Lloyd Pengilly, Chairman of Qora Capital, South Africa; Patricia Rodrigues, Associate Director at Control Risks; Nick Mitchell, Chief Operating Officer of Renergen; Jonathan Veeran, Partner at Webber Wentzel, South Africa; and Petur Georgesson, Founder and CEO of Technology Metals Market. The panel will be moderated by Olivier Barbeau, Managing Partner and EMR Leader for Africa at Moore Global.

Uniting multi-sectoral expertise from financiers, project developers, consultants and trading platforms, the panel will discuss forecast shifts in critical minerals supply and demand curves between now and 2050, identify the most interesting critical minerals projects taking place on the continent and evaluate how these projects have been able to progress through various stages of development to generate returns for investors.

Panelists will also examine the role of partnerships among governments, companies and local communities in ensuring successful and responsible investments in the sector, as well as fiscal and policy incentives conducive to attracting and retaining investments in the sector.

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 is 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

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

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Mop up operations continue across Western Cape

Location: News

Mop up operations continue across Western Cape

The Western Cape Provincial Government says it has been working around the clock to re-open roads and assist communities that have been badly affected by the recent heavy rains and flooding.

Giving an update on mop up operations, Head of the Department of Infrastructure, Jacqueline Gooch, said while the province has been working around the clock to re-open the roads along with their partners, some mop up operations are taking some time to complete due to the extent of the damage.

“While main routes and alternatives to main routes are prioritised, at times, despite being a high priority, we have to wait for the flood water to subside. This is in the case where a road remains under water or where landslips have occurred. For example, both Clarence Drive and Franschhoek Pass have significant landslips, and repair work cannot commence until the slips have stabilised,” Gooch said.

Gooch explained that when prioritising the road repairs, the provincial government considers the main routes and alternatives to main routes; access to communities that have been cut off completely for humanitarian relief, food and emergency services; and roads which are of economic importance, such as those needed for movement of goods/exports, among other things.

On the estimated total cost of storm damage, Gooch said the costs for repairs cannot be confirmed at this stage, until all inspections and assessments of damage have been carried out. 

“It is likely to be a considerable amount, when taking into account for example among other costs the number of bridges and roads that have been completely washed away,” she said.

Gooch urged residents to pay attention to road closure signs, as they are in place for their safety.

With saturated ground, she said, water causes expansion in certain cases and when an area dries, it contracts again. 

“While much has been done in terms of mop-up operations and responding to communities’ needs, we are still in the process of our disaster response and will be for some time. As we further inspect the road network, we are discovering additional damage to infrastructure,” Gooch said.  
 
Meanwhile, the provincial government has appealed to citizens who assist displaced families with donations in the form of blankets, water, dry and non-perishable food, baby food and toiletries.

Citizens who are able to donate towards relief efforts are requested to drop off any donations at the following offices of the SA Red Cross Society:
 
•    Wynberg: 21 Broad Road, Wynberg
•    Greyton: 11 Pointers Way, Heuwelkroon, Greyton
•    Hermanus: 2A Aberdeen Street, Hermanus
•    Knysna: 25 Trotter Street, Knysna
 
The province has expressed its appreciation to all officials, including teams on the ground and partners, for hard work thus far and the work currently underway. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 15:10

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Read moreMop up operations continue across Western Cape

Chemicals, cosmetics sectors to benefit from AfCFTA

Location: News

Chemicals, cosmetics sectors to benefit from AfCFTA

The chemicals, cosmetics, plastics and pharmaceutical sectors are set to get acquainted with the benefits offered under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

This will occur during the virtual workshop on the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) that will be hosted by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) on Wednesday, 11 October 2023.

The dtic has already embarked on provincial awareness workshops, which provided a platform for information sharing with the private sector on the benefits offered under the agreement.

The workshops were also used to identify South African companies in various provinces, in the targeted sector masterplans and other priority sectors that have the capacity to export to the rest of the continent. 

More workshops focusing on different sectors are being organised.

The workshop seeks to engage the chemicals, cosmetics, plastics, and pharmaceutical sectors, as well as industry agencies, associations and export councils, including their members on the benefits of exporting under the AfCFTA.

According to the Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina, the interactive workshop is critical as it will afford the department an opportunity to provide a status update on the progress made in the development of the National Implementation Plan of the AfCFTA.

This also includes the establishment of the National Implementation Committee.

“The department will update the sectors on the role expected of them in the implementation of the AfCFTA and essentially obtain challenges that the sectors may be facing in accessing the market in the continent. Obtaining this intelligence will assist the department to unlock the bottlenecks that the sectors may be facing,” Gina said.

Additionally, the workshop seeks to communicate and engage with the private sector, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), as well as women and youth-owned export ready businesses, on the status of the implementation of the AfCFTA, including opportunities for South African companies to participate in preferential trade beyond the Southern African region. 

“I am making a call to all these sectors to take advantage of the opportunities that the agreement is expected to unlock for companies.

“This agreement intends to create a large single continental market with a population of about 1.3 billion people and a combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately USD3.4 trillion and we cannot lose out on it,” she said.

Gina describes the chemicals, cosmetics, plastics and pharmaceutical sectors as important to the South African economy as they play a critical role and are interwoven with the manufacturing sector which creates much needed employment.

South Africa is Africa’s largest market for cosmetics and personal care products.

In 2018, the sector recorded close to US$3.2bn in revenue. Imports of cosmetics have almost doubled in the last 10 years, presenting opportunities for localising production.

Against this backdrop, Gina says it is critical to support the sector and all others to produce locally and export to other markets particularly to the continent. This she says will reduce the import dependency and create more jobs. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 15:18

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Read moreChemicals, cosmetics sectors to benefit from AfCFTA

Tourism Equity Fund welcomed

Location: News

Tourism Equity Fund welcomed

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has welcomed Cabinet’s concurrence for the implementation of the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF).

Following a protracted court case, earlier this year, an out-of-court TEF settlement was reached with the applicants and the court application was subsequently withdrawn.

The Department of Tourism has been given the green light to implement the amended Tourism Equity Fund in line with existing legislation.

The R1.2 billion fund is managed by the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (sefa) on behalf of the department and was tailored to provide a combination of debt and grant finance to facilitate equity acquisition and entrepreneurship.

“The Department of Tourism and sefa are currently finalising the amended Tourism Equity Fund. We will announce the call for TEF applications by end of October 2023 and will also provide clarity on previous Tourism Equity Fund applications,” Minister De Lille said.

“The Department of Tourism remains committed to advancing the transformation agenda through creating equitable opportunities to realise an inclusive and revived tourism economy,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 13:59

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Read moreTourism Equity Fund welcomed

Power Players – Africa Tech Festival’s 2023 Headliner Line-up

Location: News
Africa Tech Festival

Africa has abundant economic potential and the enormous uptake of digital technology socially and in the business sector, has positioned the continent for explosive growth, but there are challenges that lie in wait.  Many of these will be spotlighted at the 2023 Africa Tech Festival (https://apo-opa.info/3myppVu) in Cape Town 13-16 November, along with innovative solutions all led by a line-up of headline speakers including several African government ministers.

“Businesses across Africa have benefitted enormously from leap-frogging traditional technology to the digital world and wireless connectivity, and this is spurring incredible growth across the continent,” says James Williams, Director, Events | Connecting Africa | Informa Tech. “The incredible advantages of digitalisation are, however, dependent on a plentiful and reliable source of power, and it's essential that the public sector has strong strategies in place to drive this growth.”

The tech world is driven by entrepreneurial innovators, but it relies heavily on the public sector to provide infrastructure, regulations and often funding to smooth the way for technological advancement, especially in terms of providing access and infrastructure for the public to access to engage with and benefit from the technology.

Among the 200-plus speakers, presenters and panellists will be Gwede Mantashe, Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, whose input on how the South African government is tackling the critical issue of loadshedding will no doubt ensured a packed hall of delegates all hopeful of hearing positive news. The dynamic H.E. Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, South Africa's Minister in the Presidency responsible for electricity, will provide backup to the Minister in shining a light on the country's energy crisis.

Not to be missed, is the panel discussion ‘Universal Power Access: Plotting a Route Through Africa's Electricity Challenge', which puts the future of digital transformation squarely on the shoulders of electricity and citizens' access to energy.

In Africa, energy insecurity has been a chronic inhibitor of economic development for decades, and continues to cripple enterprise growth and innovation, and the panel will unpack why a staggering 30 of Africa's 54 nations face daily power shortages and supply interruptions, all of which play economic havoc with local business and consumer activity. It's important to understand how the collaboration of public and private funding is essential for striking the right balance between the two sectors to create the perfect solution to the crisis.

Also addressing delegates will be H.E. Ousmane Gaoual Diallo, the Republic of Guinea's Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, as well as Namibia's Minister of Information and Communication Technology, H.E. Minister Dr Peya Mushelenga, and their Executive Director & Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, Dr Audrin Mathe.

Another key area of public sector engagement with the tech sector will be discussed in the keynote panel ‘Unleashing Digital Prosperity: How Progressive Policy is Shaping Africa's Tech Transformation'. This session will present African Ministers from across the continent with an opportunity to share how they are tailoring policy to their unique national environment and priorities, in addition to the need for a more continental, collaborative approach.

“The process of developing and implementing policy across myriad industries and sectors is, however, an inherently complex and lengthy process and relies heavily on industry consultation, sector-specific legislation and flexibility to evolve with rapidly changing sectors,” says Williams, highlighting the importance of the growing number of Ministerial delegations at Africa Tech Festival year on year. 

Among the high-level speakers sharing with delegates over the three days are:

  • Dion Jerling (Co-Founder, Connect Earth)
  • Richard Cazalet (Exec: Strategy and Transformation, Telkom SA)
  • Robert AOUAD (CEO, ISOCEL Telecom)
  • Russell Southwood (CEO, Balancing Act)
  • Vuyani Tati (Managing Partner, AfriTech Catalytic Growth Fund),
  • Jocelyn Nyaguse (Head of Marketing and Storytelling, Startupbootcamp AfriTech)
  • Calvin Govender (General Manager ICT Fixed Services, MTN)
  • Marjorie Saint-Lot (Country Manager, Ghana and the Ivory Coast, Uber)
  • Evan Jones (CEO, The Collective X)
  • Nfaly Sylla (Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, Republic of Guinea)
  • Kellie Murungi (Chief Investments Officer, East African Power)
  • John Davies (TMT Equity Research Analyst, EMEA, TMT, Bloomberg Intelligence) An expanded list of speakers is noted below).

Aside from presenting cutting-edge content and a speaker line-up of note, the Africa Tech Festival is also the meeting place of Africa's largest community of tech champions and offers this vibrant grouping the ideal space to connect and interact. However, just as these connections are so important for the industry, so is the connecting of 1.2-billion people across Africa's 54 unique nations, vital for the continent's growth, with cross-border connectivity a particular concern.

Continental broadband penetration is currently around 45%, but this varies dramatically across regions.  Connectivity is critical to the rapidly expanding SME business community, as well as for wider socioeconomic development needs.  Looking at this the fireside chat, ‘Connectivity Beyond Borders: Unlocking Universal Broadband Access in Africa', will explore how innovations in strategy and technology are aiming to ensure that no individual, business, or community is left behind in Africa's pursuit of universal broadband access.

While most of the discussions and presentations relate to most players in the industry, the event has been structured in such a way as to ensure that specialists are also able to sit in on the most relevant content to them, either by staying in one venue for a series of talks, or by exploring the ‘centre stages' in each of the exhibition halls in which masterclasses and presentations will take place.

Other major topics on offer this year include:

  • Connectivity for All: Addressing the Needs of Underserved Communities
  • Driving Innovation: Unravelling the Business Applications of 5G FWA in Africa
  • The Changing Role of Satellites to Leapfrog Africa Into an Era of Online Connectivity.

This year, the Africa Tech Festival will offer delegates several new features, along with six presentation stages and a staggering amount of content, while hundreds of exhibitors on the show floor will once again engage with the brightest tech gurus from around the continent and globally, who will all descend on the Cape Town International Convention Centre to discover the latest products and services and to connect with other tech professionals.

Williams shares that: “This year we have added a new interactive feature to the festival - a dedicated tech demo area that we are sure will draw crowds throughout the three days. It's a chance to engage with the cutting-edge innovations that Africa needs to know about… as well as some of the exciting innovations that Africa has to offer the world.”

For more information, please see website here: Africa Tech Festival 2023 - The Home of AfricaCom & AfricaTech (https://apo-opa.info/3myppVu)

View all ticket options for Africa Tech Festival, including start-up passes, here (https://apo-opa.info/3Q04o2r).

(Please note that all requests are adjudicated and there may be some delay before you hear back from us).

List of Speakers:

Dion JerlingCo-FounderConnect Earth (https://apo-opa.info/46gFyRs)

Richard CazaletExec: Strategy and TransformationTelkom SA (https://apo-opa.info/3ZFTeTq)

Miriam AltmanDirector: Altman Advisory & Professor of 4IR PracticeUniversity of Johannesburg (https://apo-opa.info/3F2uvzd)

Guy ZibiManaging DirectorXalam Analytics (https://apo-opa.info/46vWqE5)

Robert AOUADCEOISOCEL Telecom (https://apo-opa.info/48DshE8)

Ronan De RenesseSenior Research Director, Service Provider MarketsOmdia (https://apo-opa.info/3ZEV4nH)

Russell SouthwoodCEOBalancing Act (https://apo-opa.info/3Fad7bL)

Matt ReedChief Analyst, Service ProviderOmdia (https://apo-opa.info/3Q0SYLJ)

Vuyani TatiManaging PartnerAfriTech Catalytic Growth Fund (https://apo-opa.info/3Q2cdEx)

Jocelyn NyaguseHead of Marketing and StorytellingStartupbootcamp AfriTech (https://apo-opa.info/3Q38KWg)

Nathan-Ross AdamsData & Tech LawyerMichalsons (https://apo-opa.info/45l5JVP)

Paula GilbertEditorConnecting Africa (https://apo-opa.info/45nYfRL)

Matshepo SehlohoAssociate EditorConnecting Africa (https://apo-opa.info/45jiVKW)

Calvin GovenderGeneral Manager ICT Fixed ServicesMTN (https://apo-opa.info/46yJixt)

Marjorie Saint-LotCountry Manager for Uber Ghana and the Ivory CoastUber (https://apo-opa.info/45minno)

Joseph NdabaCEO of Mafikeng Digital Innovation Hub4IR Commissioner: Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Commission (https://apo-opa.info/48IAhUv)

Marion BalandraFounder & CEOMeridian Remote Teams (https://apo-opa.info/3RHf8E3)

Evan JonesCEOThe Collective X (https://apo-opa.info/3RP8Dir)

Badi SudhakaranCo-FounderVALR.com (https://apo-opa.info/45iLiIU)

Nfaly SyllaChief of CabinetMinistry of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, Republic of Guinea (https://apo-opa.info/46yzZxs)

Mumbi Ndung'uChief Growth and OperationsPower Learn Project (https://apo-opa.info/48QSa3w)

Dr Cherise DunnCo-founder and COOSouth Africa Makes (https://apo-opa.info/46yrSks)

Judith GardinerVice President, Growth and Emerging MarketsEquinix (https://apo-opa.info/46jvC9O)

Robinson Tombari SibeMD/CEODigital Footprints (https://apo-opa.info/3Q3M4oW)

Bernard WanyamaPresident, Kampala ChapterISACA (https://apo-opa.info/3tgQSyh)

Ryan Van den BerghManaging Executive: Group Technology Strategy, Architecture, Spectrum & AssuranceVodacom (https://apo-opa.info/45l7DWt)

Andy HalsallCEOpoa! Internet (https://apo-opa.info/46ArUrZ)

Sabrine ChennaouiCo-FounderMONSAPO (https://apo-opa.info/3tjBYHA)

Pablo MlikotaSenior Vice President – International Mobility Servicese& GROUP (https://apo-opa.info/3ZEWvT7)

John DaviesTMT Equity Research Analyst, EMEA, TMTBloomberg Intelligence (https://apo-opa.info/3Q4dAmn)

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 
Call on +27 (0) 82 339 1199. 

Social Media Handles:
Facebook: @africatechfestival  
Twitter: @africatechfest
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.info/3EcywR6

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Government continues to fail military veterans over pensions

Location: News

Dear Editor Since the Military Veterans Act was enacted in 2011, Military Veterans are yet to receive their pension benefits because the Department of Military Veterans (DMV) has not published the Pension Regulations. The Pension Regulations were signed by the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Thandi Modise, on 31 July 2023. On 20 September …

Read moreGovernment continues to fail military veterans over pensions

We must enable the Springboks and Proteas to continue using our national flag

Location: Sport

Dear Editor The Springboks and Proteas are at risk of being unable to fly the South African national flag, forced to play under a neutral flag at their respective World Cups, and not being allowed to sing our national anthem, thanks to the ANC government. For our national sports teams to be at the risk …

Read moreWe must enable the Springboks and Proteas to continue using our national flag

WXV Gets Widespread Global Coverage

Location: Sport

Rugby’s new international competition will be available to watch around the world in established and emerging rugby territories following the announcement of an extensive broadcast deal. WXV heralds the start of an exciting new dawn for international women’s rugby and fans around the world will be able to get in on the action from the …

Read moreWXV Gets Widespread Global Coverage

Vaal Central Water pledges full support to board of directors

Location: News

Vaal Central Water pledges full support to board of directors

Vaal Central Water Board has pledged its full support to its newly appointed Board of Directors. 

The newly appointed 12-member board, effective from 01 October 2023, was spearheaded by Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, following a rigorous selection process.

The Vaal-Central Water Board used to be previously known as Bloem Water. 

Welcoming the new board members, the entity said it will include esteemed individuals, and carries with it an amalgamation of vast experience from both the public and private sector. 

“Their diverse backgrounds, insights, and expertise will prove instrumental in driving the Board's vision forward. In ensuring that the board not only aligns with the entity’s values and goals but also resonates with the unique needs of the Northern Cape and the Free State; both Provinces are represented,” the entity said in a statement.

The newly appointed members of the board include Makhosini Solomon Msibi (Chairperson); Lungile Right Bomela (Deputy Chairperson); Luvuyo Xola Ntoyi; Elizabeth Cornelia Rockman; Ntikila Sandlana; Andrew Modisaotsile Rantho; Desmond Solomon Ezekiel Fransman; Matshego Gail Mercy Jele; Boipelo Felicity Nakedi; Advocate Tshepiso Doreen Segoe-Backward; Thabo Moses Manyoni; and Gugulethu Wendy Phakathi.

“In the spirit of continuity and retaining institutional memory, it is noteworthy to mention that the 12-member Board has 4 members who served in the previous Board. This is another defining moment for Vaal Central Water Board following the announcement and gazette of the new name of the Water Board by the Minister transitioning from “Bloem Water” to “Vaal Central Water Board” on 14 July 2023,” the entity said.

Swift plans to deal with water service challenges

Meanwhile, Mchunu has urged the incoming board to be agile in putting plans in place to deal with water service challenges affecting both provinces, including areas that were previously un-serviced.

Mchunu, recently met with the old and new boards of the entity to lead a process of handover from the old to the new board, and also inducted the new board on their role, responsibilities, and functions in the new entity, in order for the new board to hit the ground running.

“The idea behind the reconfiguration of Water Boards is to ensure that water boards increase access to un-serviced areas, enhance market capitalisation for infrastructure projects, and reduce skewed supply of water,” Mchunu said.

Mchunu commended the outgoing board members of the Vaal-Central Water for the smooth transition process from Bloem Water, and welcomed the incoming board. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 10:19

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Stand By for the Double George

Location: Sport

There will be two DHL Stormers XVs in action in George on Friday in the last of their pre-season matches. The doubleheader will get underway at Outeniqua Park at 15h30, when the first DHL Stormers XV take on the SWD Eagles. A different combination will then take the field at 18h00 to face the Hollywoodbets …

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Minister Nzimande’s efforts to shield NSFAS

Location: News

Dear Editor Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande completely lost the plot at last night’s parliamentary portfolio committee meeting on higher education when he accused the committee of overstepping its mandate regarding our reasonable request that National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) direct payment service providers present additional information to the committee. The Minister’s outburst was …

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Morocco’s Suspension Lifted

Location: Sport

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, October 5, 2023/ — Rugby Africa, the continental governing body of rugby across Africa, and the Ministry of National Education, Preschool, and Sport of the Kingdom of Morocco confirmed today that the Royal Moroccan Rugby Federation (FRMR) has officially been reinstated as a full member by the Executive Committee of Rugby …

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Water restrictions lifted on sub-systems within Algoa water supply scheme

Location: News

Water restrictions lifted on sub-systems within Algoa water supply system

The Department of Water and Sanitation has lifted the water restrictions on the Kouga/Loerie Sub-System and Groendal Sub-System due to improved storage levels in the dams.

Announcing the lifting of water restrictions for some sub-systems within the Algoa Water Supply System in the Eastern Cape, the department said the recent rainfall has brought significant relief from the protracted period of drought experienced in the Algoa Bay region, with a significant recovery in dam levels to the extent that Kouga Dam recorded its first spilling since 2015. 

“This catchment is of strategic importance to the western parts of Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, Kouga Local Municipality as well as the agricultural sector in the Gamtoos Valley,” the department said.

According to the department report, in week 19 (15 May 2023), the Algoa Water Supply System recorded an accumulative storage level of only 13.3%, with Kouga Dam at 14.57%, Churchill Dam at 24.4%, Groendal Dam at 17.03%, and Impofu Dam at 6.79%. 

“The latest records of this system’s recovery show that the accumulative storage has reached 70%, with Kouga Dam at 101.42%, Churchill Dam at 100.93%, Groendal Dam at 101%, and Impofu Dam at 24.37%. It is anticipated that Impofu Dam’s levels will increase over the next few days since it will benefit from the spilling from Churchill Dam.

“The department’s Water Resource Management Planning processes are based on hydrological trends, hence there will be continuous monitoring of the accumulation of rainfall-generated run-off throughout the remainder of the hydrological year (period of monitoring) in this catchment,” the department said. 

The department has also noted experts warning that there are indicators of a strong El Niño developing which could coincide with warmer temperatures and lower rainfall across South Africa (CSIR, 2023).  

Since the full impact of the anticipated El Niño effect is not known, the department said it is reluctant to confidently declare that the protracted drought period has ended. 

“The analysis over a longer period will provide for a more accurate climate and hydrological trend. This analysis will enable a decision to be made in November regarding the annual restrictions to be imposed on the region.

“However, in the meantime, the hydrological recovery of the Algoa water supply system has allowed the department to favourably consider the upliftment of the restrictions for the area. This relaxation of water use will contribute to the economic recovery in the domestic, agricultural, and industrial sectors in the area,” the department said.

Reviewed restrictions are as follows: 
•    The water restriction on the Kouga/Loerie Sub-System and Groendal Sub-System has been lifted due to improved storage levels in these dams, up until the next decision date (November 2023).

•    Restrictions in the Kromme Sub-System, comprising of Churchill and Impofu dams and upstream catchment remain in place until the next decision date (November 2023).

The department emphasised that water users are required to continue using water responsibly and not to exceed water use abstraction allocation volumes. 

It also encouraged the general public to continue conserving water and report water leaks. 

“The Algoa water supply system is still under threat of a growing demand that exceeds the yield, which implies that consumption levels are higher than the natural replenishing ability of the water resource system. The sensitive nature of this water supply system demands the cooperation of the collective community dependent on this water resource, to continue using water sparingly,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 11:35

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Gauteng police continue to manufacture inroads in dealing with counterfeit goods

Location: News

Gauteng police continue to make inroads in dealing with counterfeit goods

The police in Gauteng continue to make inroads in dealing with counterfeit goods and contraband.

On Wednesday, the police consisting of various units including Public Order Policing, Commercial Crime, Crime Intelligence, Crime Prevention in partnership with other law enforcement agencies such as Gauteng Traffic Police, Tshwane Metro Police Department, Wardens, Brand Protectors and Customs (SARS) conducted a search and seizure operation at Marabastad, in Pretoria, with the aim of addressing peddling and dealing of counterfeit and contraband goods.

Over the years, Marabastad has been a business district with a lot of consumers coming to buy clothing items and other goods however, a number of businesses allegedly owned by foreign nationals, are running illegal businesses of selling counterfeit goods.

To address this, the team seized clothing items and other goods with notable brands from both local and international to an estimated street value of about R13.7 million.

Three people were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act.

It is a criminal offence for a business to seek profit or use someone’s trademark without permission and the counterfeit goods Act 37 of 1997 prohibits such sales as this has a negative impact on the economy of the country.

“The police in Gauteng will continue unabated with these kind of operations to disrupt the counterfeit goods market,” the South African Police Service said in a statement.

The community is urged not to buy counterfeit goods and to report any criminal activities to their nearest police station or by calling Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can be directed to MySAPS App. Tipsters may opt to remain anonymous. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 10:02

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