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Mathu Joyini (South Africa) Chair of Fourth Committee

Location: News

United Nations (UN)
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The Fourth Committee (Special Political and Decolonization) elected Mathu Joyini (South Africa) Chair on 1 June. (See Press Release GA/12504.)

Prior to her appointment in 2021 as Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ms. Joyini served as Deputy Director-General of her country's Department of International Relations and Cooperation and Head of its Diplomatic Academy and Policy Research and Development Unit, since 2016.  Previously, she was Permanent Representative to the International Seabed Authority from 2010 to 2015.

Among other diplomatic assignments, Ms. Joyini served as High Commissioner and Ambassador to six countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, from 2010 to 2015. She was the International Relations Department's Deputy Director-General for Human Resources from 2008 to 2010.  Before joining the Government in 2001, she held senior private sector positions in mining, finance, petroleum and consulting, among other fields.

Ms. Joyini holds master's degrees in social work from the University of Pennsylvania in the United States and in business administration from Wits Business School in South Africa, where she also earned a bachelor's degree.

She was born in 1968.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations (UN).

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Retailability Hails Re-Build At Cornubia Logistics Park

Location: MyPR

South African retail group, Retailability has described the reconstruction of its 13 000m² apparel distribution centre at the Cornubia Ridge Logistics Park north of Durban as a “massive collaboration” and a “good news story” for the regional economy. The retail brand which includes Edgars, Legit, Swagga Style and Keedo was just one of the hundreds …

Read moreRetailability Hails Re-Build At Cornubia Logistics Park

Unlocking the power of records management: Crown Records Management leads the way

Location: MyPR

By Pieter Nienaber (Compliance Africa at Crown Records Management South Africa) Crown Records Management, a global leader in information management, proudly marked the recent National Recycling Day by underlining its commitment to helping businesses embrace digitisation and reduce their reliance on paper-based records. With over 30 years of experience in the field, Crown Records Management …

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Pretoria-Kempton Park PRASA service resumes

Location: News

Pretoria-Kempton Park PRASA service resumes

The commuter rail service from Pretoria to Kempton Park has resumed its commercial service, bringing the number of recovered lines by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) to 20.

Commuters can now save on their travel costs, as a trip from Pretoria to Kempton Park costs just R9.50, while Pretoria to Germiston is R11.50, and Pretoria to Olifanstfontein at R8.50.

“The resumption of this service takes us a step closer towards running the service between the three big metros in Gauteng. Soon, trains will be running from Pretoria to Ekurhuleni, and all the way to Johannesburg Park Station, reflecting the interconnectedness between our metros,” PRASA Group CEO, Hishaam Emeran, said.

Thursday’s resumption of the commercial service followed the necessary permit from the Railway Safety Regulator. The agency introduced the service with the new modern high-tech trains from Pretoria to Kempton Park, with a service available from Kempton Park to Germiston station at both peak and off-peak.

The affordable services are expected to ease the burden of travel costs on commuters, many of whom are from the lower LSM groups, spending up to 40% of their household income on transport.

PRASA said it has gained ground in its efforts to rebuild passenger rail corridors and move commuters on the new blue modern trains, Isitimela Sabantu.

To date, 20 lines have been recovered out of 40, with trains now running on 26 operational lines in Gauteng, Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

The organisation has made significant progress in rehabilitating vandalised stations, with a total of 230 stations refurbished to basic functionality.

“The number of reopened lines and those earmarked for reopening tells the story of solid progress in returning passenger rail to its rightful place as the future backbone of public transport. By the end of this financial year, PRASA will have recovered 80% of the passenger rail corridors and lines, while bringing to our people a modernized passenger train experience,” Emeran said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 09/29/2023 - 09:27

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Special Official Funeral Category 2 to honour Mr Aziz Pahad

Location: News

The Presidency: Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the late former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Aziz Pahad will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2 tomorrow, Saturday 30 September 2023.

Mr Pahad passed away on Wednesday, 27 September 2023, at the age of 82.

President Ramaphosa has extended his deepest condolences to the extended Pahad family who have in short succession lost Mr Aziz Pahad and his brother, former Minister in the Presidency Essop Pahad, who passed away in July 2023.

The South African Police Service will provide ceremonial elements during the funeral service for the former Deputy Minister, which will commence at West Park Cemetery in Johannesburg at 10h00 tomorrow.

President Ramaphosa has directed that flags be flown at half-mast around the country until tomorrow evening.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.

Read moreSpecial Official Funeral Category 2 to honour Mr Aziz Pahad

Unravel the World of Network and Connectivity Solutions

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

In our digitally connected world, a robust and reliable network is more than just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Your home cinema, security system, and even smart home devices require a strong and secure network to operate seamlessly. Let’s take a closer look at the brands that are shaping the future of home networking and connectivity …

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Exploring the Miscellaneous Marvels in Home Entertainment and Technology

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

When it comes to decking out your home with the latest technology, there are some brands that defy categorisation. They offer a unique range of products that can enhance your experience in ways you didn’t even know were possible. Let’s dive into some of these brands to discover what sets them apart. Lyngdorf: For the …

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Southern Sun to host exclusive wine tasting events showcasing the 27th Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards

Location: MyPR

South Africa, 28 September 2023 – Southern Sun once again proudly hosted the 27th edition of the prestigious Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards at a glittering event at the Cape Sun. The Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards, Africa’s most celebrated wine and spirits competition, renowned for assembling an outstanding panel comprising 18 international …

Read moreSouthern Sun to host exclusive wine tasting events showcasing the 27th Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards

Lessons for SMEs to navigate the current challenging environment

Location: MyPR

As part of the SME Matters series, co-hosted by Business Day and Nedbank, panellists unpacked what Covid-19 taught them about surviving in an uncertain world. The panellists were Alan Shannon, Executive of Small Business Services and Private Clients at Nedbank, Raghmah Solomon, founder of Vortex Design Solutions, a design and project manager company, and Greg …

Read moreLessons for SMEs to navigate the current challenging environment

ICC Cricket World Cup Teams

Location: Sport

The squads for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in India have been locked in ahead of the tournament opener between England and New Zealand on 5 October. India will be looking to become the fourth consecutive host nation to win the tournament, a run which began when they lifted the trophy themselves in …

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Junior Springbok Women squad for 2023

Location: Sport

Four players with international experience have been included in the Junior Springbok Women’s squad that was named in Mthatha on Thursday at the conclusion of the SA Rugby U20 Women’s Week. Western Province players Anelisa Ndamase (prop), Beyonce du Plessis (loose forward), Carmelita Malone and Ayakha Soga (scrumhalves) represented the Junior Springbok Women in their …

Read moreJunior Springbok Women squad for 2023

SIU probe into Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works tender welcomed

Location: News

SIU probe into Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works tender welcomed

Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has welcomed the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) probe into allegations of maladministration and corruption related to the R295 million tender to refurbish and upgrade the Rooiwal Wastewater Treatment Works in the Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality.

Mchunu said the mismanagement of the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment plant funds will remain "etched in the mind of many South Africans as lives were lost due to alleged improper conduct”.

“We welcome the investigation into the allegations of unlawful and improper conduct related to the tender awarded by the City of Tshwane.

“We believe that the SIU will do a thorough investigation on maladministration, malpractice, corruption and fraud against any person or entities that were responsible. We also hope that the SIU will recover any financial losses suffered by the State,” Mchunu said.

The investigation into the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works will resume following the signing of a proclamation by President Cyril Ramaphosa which authorises the SIU to probe the tender of Phase 1 of the upgrades and urgent refurbishment at the wastewater treatment plant. 

The plant receives wastewater from Atteridgeville, Pretoria’s central business district, Pretoria North, Soshanguve South and Rosslyn.

However, due to problems with operations and maintenance, the treated effluent from the waste water treatment works is of sub-standard and it continuously discharges into the Apies River and the Leeuwkraal Dam, resulting in poor water quality in Leeuwkraal Dam. 

The Temba Water Treatment Works (WTW) abstracts water from the Leeuwkraal Dam for purification and supply to the Hammanskraal area. As a result, the water produced at the Temba plant is of poor quality and not potable.

On 20 August 2019, the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) declared that water in Hammanskraal was not fit for human consumption. This followed tests on the water with the help of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) after residents lodged complaints with it.  

Mchunu said the department has on numerous occasions engaged with the City of Tshwane on the poor quality of effluent released from the Rooiwal Wastewater Treatment Works.

The department has made interventions, including the western side of Hammanskraal (Refentse), which was supplied with water from the water supply pipelines in Soshanguve, and the Eastern part of Hammanskraal, which was supplied with water by Magalies Water.

However, Mchunu said the central part of Temba is still experiencing problems with the quality of drinking water.

“The Department of Water and Sanitation and the City of Tshwane have formed a partnership to repair and upgrade the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works, and it is estimated that the cost of a full rehabilitation and upgrade of the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works will be in the region of R4 billion. 

“The Development Bank of Southern Africa will be appointed as an independent implementing agent to manage the design and construction work, whereas the department and the City of Tshwane will form a joint steering committee to oversee the project,” Mchunu explained.
  
The project will be implemented in stages with an emphasis on work to stop or reduce the pollution from Rooiwal in the early stages. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 12:53

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South Africa, Lesotho BNC kicks off

Location: News

South Africa, Lesotho BNC kicks off

South Africa places great importance on its bilateral relations with its Southern African neighbour, the Kingdom of Lesotho.

This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who was delivering the opening address of the Inaugural Session of the South Africa – Lesotho Bi-National Commission (BNC) held in Pretoria.

According to the Presidency, the BNC session follows an agreement signed by the two countries in November 2021 to elevate the structured bilateral mechanism from a Joint Bilateral Commission of Co-operation (JBCC) that is held at a ministerial level, to a BNC that is presided over by the two Heads of State and Government. 

“Our relationship is anchored in historic bonds of language, culture and heritage. We recall with gratitude that the Kingdom of Lesotho provided shelter and support to South Africa’s liberation movements during the struggle against apartheid,” President Ramaphosa said.

On issues of the economy, the President highlighted that economic ties between the two countries have been fruitful for both nations.

He added that the elevation of the BNC from its previous iteration to one led by the two leaders is testament of the commitment to deepening economic relations.

“Economic relations between our two countries have grown over the years and continue to mutually benefit our respective peoples. South African businesses in Lesotho contribute to job creation while Lesotho’s water resources continue to benefit South Africa.

“It is important for the governments of both countries to work together to resolve challenges faced by businesses and put in place mechanisms to ensure that investments are protected. The elevation of the Joint Bilateral Commission of Cooperation between South Africa and Lesotho to a Bi-National Commission is a testament to the unwavering commitment by our two countries to further bolster our relations for mutual benefit,” President Ramaphosa said.

Water and energy resources

Touching on issues of water supply, the President emphasised the rising importance of the water cooperation through the jointly driven Lesotho Highlands Water Project.

“South Africa highly appreciates the cooperation on water resources between the two countries. In particular, we welcome Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project as a vital development to enhance water security in the Gauteng province and other parts of South Africa.

“The Lesotho Highlands Water Project also contributes to job creation in Lesotho and the construction of new roads, bringing access to previously inaccessible areas of Lesotho. South Africa is ready to cooperate with Lesotho to resolve any challenges that may arise in the implementation of the project,” he said.

President Ramaphosa urged greater cooperation between the two countries on the development of renewable energy.

“South Africa is keen to work with the Kingdom of Lesotho on the four proposed renewable energy projects. In the face of the worsening effects of climate change, we need to be making significant investments to ensure water and energy security for our peoples into the future.

“Our respective ministers should continue their engagements so that we can see progress on these proposed developments,” he said.

Illegal mining

President Ramaphosa commended the Lesotho government on its “commitment…to cooperate with South Africa to deal with challenges of illegal mining in our country”.

“Such activity carries a great social and economic cost for both our countries. We were deeply saddened by the unfortunate loss of the lives of illegal miners in Harmony Gold Mine in Welkom.

“Our respective governments are working with the mining company on the best methods and plan to retrieve the bodies of the miners without endangering the rescue personnel,” President Ramaphosa said. - SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 13:07

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Employment up by 0.4% 

Location: News

Employment up by 0.4% 

Employment has increased by 39 000 or 0.4% quarter-on-quarter, from 10 039 000 in March 2023 to 10 078 000 in June 2023.

This is according to the latest Quarterly Employment Statistics report released by Statistics South Africa on Thursday.

 
According to the report, this was largely due to increases in community services (40 000 or 1.4%), business services (12 000 or 0.5%), mining (2 000 or 0.4%) and electricity (1 000 or 1.7%). 

However, there were decreases in the following industries: manufacturing (-10 000 or -0.8%), transport (-3 000 or -0.7%), trade (-2 000 or -0.1%) and construction (-1 000 or -0.2%).

Total employment was up by 104 000 or 1.0% year-on-year between June 2022 and June 2023.

Full-time employment decreased by 25 000 or -0.3% quarter-on-quarter, from 8 816 000 in March 2023 to 8 791 000 in June 2023. This was largely due to decreases in community services (-11 000 or -0.5%), manufacturing (-10 000 or -0.9%), construction (-6 000 or -1.4%) and transport (-1 000 or -0.3%). 

The electricity and business services industries reported no quarterly change. However, there were increases in mining (2 000 or 0.4%) and trade (1 000 or 0.1%).

Full-time employment decreased by 46 000 or -0.5% year-on-year between June 2022 and June 2023.

Meanwhile, part-time employment increased by 64 000 or 5.2% quarter-on-quarter, from 1 223 000 in March 2023 to 1 287 000 in June 2023. 

This was largely due to increases in community services (51 000 or 8.6%), business services (12 000 or 5.2%), construction (5 000 or 7.1%) and electricity (1 000 or 100.0%). 

The manufacturing industry reported no quarterly change. However, there were decreases in the following industries: trade (-3 000 or -1.3%) and transport (-2 000 or -11.8%).

Part-time employment increased by 150 000 or 13,2% year-on-year between June 2022 and June 2023.

The second quarter report also provides insight into employment figures in industries before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Three out of eight industries (mining, manufacturing and community services) have returned to pre-pandemic employment levels.

“Gross earnings paid to employees increased by R3.6 billion or 0.4% from R828.7 billion in March 2023 to R832.4 billion in June 2023. This was largely due to increases in the following industries: community services, trade, transport, construction, manufacturing and mining. However, there were decreases in the following industries: business services and electricity.

“The year-on-year total gross earnings increased by R42.9 billion or 5.4% between June 2022 and June 2023,” StatsSA said. 

StatsSA said that basic salary/wages paid to employees increased by R19.3 billion or 2.6% from R738,5 billion in March 2023 to R757.8 billion in June 2023. 

This was largely due to increases in the following industries: community services, business services, trade, manufacturing, construction, transport and mining. However, the electricity industry reported a quarterly decrease.
 
The year-on-year basic salary/wages increased by R38.6 billion or 5.4% between June 2022 and June 2023.
 
“Bonuses paid to employees decreased by R17.7 billion or -26.4% from R66.9 billion in March 2023 to R49.3 billion in June 2023. This was largely due to decreases in the following industries: business services, manufacturing, community services and electricity. However, there were increases in the following industries: transport, trade and construction.
 
“The year-on-year bonus payments increased by R2.1 billion or 4.4% between June 2022 and June 2023,” StatsSA said. 
 

Meanwhile, overtime paid to employees increased by R2.0 billion or 8.7% from R23.3 billion in March 2023 to R25.4 billion in June 2023. 

This was largely due to increases in the following industries: manufacturing, business services, transport, trade, construction and electricity. However, the community services industry reported a quarterly decrease.

 “The year-on-year overtime payments increased by R2.3 billion or 10.1% between June 2022 and June 2023.

 “Average monthly earnings showed a quarter-on-quarter increase of 2.8%, from R25 274 in February 2023 to R25 994 in May 2023. Year-on-year, average monthly earnings increased by 5.4%,” StatsSA said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 14:32

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Decisive actions needed for prosperous, sustainable economies

Location: News

Decisive actions needed for prosperous, sustainable economies

Governments must take “decisive and intentional actions” to steer their countries to economic prosperity as the world enters a period of low growth.

This is the word from Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana who was delivering the opening address at the BRICS Infrastructure Investment Symposium on Thursday.

“At a time when the global economy is gradually recovering from multiple adverse shocks, the International Monetary Fund in its April 2023 World Economic Outlook warns that the world is entering a perilous phase during which economic growth is expected to remain low by historical standards and the downside risks dominate.

“The warning by the Fund and the elevated risks calls for decisive and intentional actions if we are to steer economies towards a prosperous, sustainable and inclusive economy. For our part as BRICS countries, we are committed to leveraging infrastructure investments to do this. And as important contributors to the faster growth projected in emerging market and development economies, we remain open for investment,” Godongwana said.

The Minister said in this regard, infrastructure investments form a key part of how economic recovery can be realised.

“It is when investments are made that a partnership towards an equitable just transition, strengthening of the post-pandemic growth, support to socio-economic development and the attainment of the SDG 2030 Agenda priorities will be realised.

“Infrastructure investments benefit everyone – for the economy, it is about growth and development, for citizens about access to social services, for investors a return on investment, for industry the ability to operate and compete, for job seekers employment opportunities, and for the marginalised, inclusivity. This is the reason why we are focused on stimulating investment,” he said.

Godongwana highlighted that although investment in infrastructure development is also a key factor, the “constrained fiscal position of many emerging market and developing economies mean that their abilities to fund much of their infrastructure investments is limited”.

“However, the development and delivery of infrastructure ought not to depend on the availability of public resources, both financial and non-financial. The OECD [Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development] estimates that US$80 trillion of long-term investor asset base can be unlocked for infrastructure development.

“We know that infrastructure investments offer stable, attractive and long term returns and cashflows for investors. For this reason, while the financing gap is seemingly large, through greater collaboration and effective partnerships, the gap can be closed. The question is how?

“It is well known that despite increased efforts to mobilise private investment for infrastructure in emerging markets, the uptake has been relatively slow. Thus, the Symposium is focused on measures needed to promote the uptake of private capital in achieving the infrastructure agendas and plans of the BRICS countries,” he said.

The Minister called on the symposium to not only collectively find solutions to economic challenges but to also “go fast because there are significant opportunity costs associated with the status quo”.

“We must also think strategically, laterally and pragmatically because the BRICS countries' infrastructure agendas are ambitious. And to advance these, scale, innovation and sustainability must be at the centre.

“As for governments and officials, we undertake to keep an open mind in these engagements. We will review and strengthen our regulatory systems and processes, earnestly consider alternative approaches proposed to increase the pace of infrastructure development and delivery, and build our capacity and capability.

“We know that without these critical enablers, our quest to create opportunities for mutually accelerated growth and sustainable development is unachievable,” Godongwana said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 15:17

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BMA to safeguard SA’s borders

Location: News

BMA to safeguard SA’s borders

The newly established Border Management Authority (BMA) Commissioner, Dr Mike Masiapata, has assured South Africans that the entity will get rid of corruption and ensure that the country’s borders are safe.

The BMA came into effect on 1 April 2023, and it is expected to be officially launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa in Musina, Limpopo, next week.

Masiapata explained that the BMA was established to ensure that the country is protected.

Speaking at the National Press Club media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday, Masiapata said legislative frameworks had to be looked at prior to the establishment of the BMA.

“Since 1994, South Africa has been using a multi-agency approach in its border management. It was therefore decided that a single agency was needed to manage the country’s borders,” Masiapata said.

Masiapata said the previous multi-agency included seven departments and agencies, including the Departments of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development; Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment; Health; Home Affairs; the South African National Defence Force (SANDF); the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the South African Revenue Service (SARS), which all have a physical presence in the border environment.

Masiapata said managing the country’s borders has been a challenge, especially with the old system.

He explained that the aim of establishing the new agency was to deal with the challenges that the country faces.

“For almost 15 years, there have been some discussions to try and have the Border Management Authority established to deal with the challenges the country is faced with. There was a lot of corruption brought by the old system,” Masiapata said.

Masiapata said BMA officials will be thoroughly vetted.

The BMA has, since its inception, recorded successes, amongst them intercepting stolen vehicles.

In June 2013, Cabinet made the decision to establish a Border Management Agency under the guidance of the DHA.

The decision was taken in recognition of the National Intelligence Co-ordinating Committee  (NICOC) 2012 Feasibility Study, which had highlighted weaknesses in border management.

The authority will be responsible for the execution of frontline border law enforcement functions related to, inter alia, port health, immigration control, access control, biosecurity, food safety and phyto-sanitary control, land border infrastructure development and maintenance, and border information and risk management.

It is intended that the new agency, the BMA, will adapt and respond effectively to the challenges, threats and opportunities that exist in the border environment whilst safe-guarding South Africa’s borders and meeting the country’s national, regional and global developmental responsibilities and human rights imperatives. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 15:29

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Pandor pays tribute to the late Aziz Pahad

Location: News

Pandor pays tribute to the late Aziz Pahad

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, says Aziz Pahad will be remembered for his outstanding contribution to the fight against apartheid and life-long commitment to the promotion of human rights on the international stage. 

Pahad passed away on Wednesday evening at the age of 82. 

Pahad served as the Deputy Minister of the then Department of Foreign Affairs - now the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) from 1994 to 2008. 

“In this role, Pahad became one of the first people at the forefront of establishing relations with the international community after many countries had severed ties with South Africa during the apartheid years,” the department said. 

The department described the former Deputy Minister as a fierce proponent of an independent foreign policy for South Africa. 

“He was a principled champion for human rights, especially the oppressed and marginalised people. From Palestine to Western Sahara, he spoke for the voiceless and was unwavering in his implementation of South Africa's foreign policy, which recognises the right to self-determination of the aforementioned peoples.”

In April 2021, the University of Pretoria conferred him an honorary doctorate in Literature for his “contributions to local and international peace, security, justice and international solidarity”. 

The university said: “Pahad’s contributions and approach to diplomacy bring strong moral convictions, careful judgement and, above all, a quiet, influential determination in the search for solutions to South Africa’s challenges”. 

Years after relinquishing his role in government, Pahad remained active in civic affairs. 

In 2018, he chaired the Foreign Policy Review Panel appointed by Minister Lindiwe Sisulu. 

“As a result of the report, DIRCO initiated a number of changes aimed at enhancing the implementation of South Africa's foreign policy.” 

Post-retirement, Pahad also maintained close ties with those pursuing the Palestinian and Saharawi causes. 

“These were causes he would remain dear to, for as long as he lived.”

At the Ubuntu Awards organised by DIRCO early this year, Pahad was awarded the OR Tambo Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contribution to a South Africa that is free and democratic and a world that is fair and just. 

“On behalf of all South African diplomats at home and abroad, and all freedom-loving people of the world, we pass our deepest condolences to the Pahad family. 

“May the indomitable spirit of Pahad continue to guide our country as we continue the search for a better South Africa and a better world.” – SAnews.gov.za 
 

Gabisile
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 15:50

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9th BRICS Parliamentary Forum (PF) Converges to Foster Multilateralism, Cooperation, and Collaboration

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The 9th BRICS Parliamentary Forum (BRICS PF) got off to a remarkable start today as approximately 250 delegates from about 15 countries across different continents converged for discussions that reinforced the BRICS Parliaments' commitment to multilateralism, cooperation, and collaboration.

The BRICS PF is an interparliamentary forum composed of presiding officers of Parliaments from BRICS Member States - the Federative Republic of Brazil, the Russian Federation, the Republic of India, the People's Republic of China, and the Republic of South Africa, whose aim is to deepen collaboration, partnership, and progress.

The 9th BRICS PF is hosted by the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa, in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality in Gauteng Province under the theme: "Harnessing inclusive Multilateralism and Parliamentary Diplomacy to deepen BRICS and Africa Partnership for Accelerated Implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement."

Today's debate centred around the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and its potential impact on BRICS nations – as well as the crucial role that parliaments can play in maximizing its benefits. "This agreement presents BRICS nations with a significant opportunity by granting them improved access to the African market, creating new avenues for trade, and opening up possibilities for expanded investments," said National Assembly Speaker Ms. Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula.

Speaker Mapisa-Nqakula said that by collaborating closely with one another, BRICS nations can utilize their collective influence to promote fairer trade, alleviate trade barriers, and address existing imbalances. "This partnership offers an ideal platform to not only strengthen economic ties with Africa but also stimulate Africa's economic transformation process," she added.

Speaking during his keynote address, Deputy President Mr. Paul Mashatile said the BRICS PF has the potential to effect change on a global and unprecedented scale. "For starters, BRICS has focused the imagination of the world's population beyond the citizens of its member states. In and of itself, this is a good thing. However, we should not be surprised when this success factor attracts negative responses from some actors in the world despite the fact that BRICS is not opposed to any state parties or groups. Instead, we seek a peaceful and just world of equitable resource distribution."

National Council of Provinces Chairperson, Mr. Amos Masondo, said the discussions on the opening day were "characterized by a fruitful exchange of perspectives and expertise. They have enhanced our collective understanding and reinforced our commitment to our common objectives."

Chairperson Masondo said multilateralism is the cornerstone for BRICS. The BRICS countries have shown greater resolve to pursue multilateralism with the aim of creating a fairer, peaceful, and secure world. Consistent with the understanding that multilateralism is key to containing international rivalries, BRICS has expressed its commitment to multilateralism through upholding international law.

Also speaking on the opening day, former National Assembly Speaker Ms. Baleka Mbete reminisced about the formative years of the BRICS PF. Ms. Mbete, who is also a former Deputy President of the Republic, said that by signing the Memorandum of Understanding on the BRICS Parliamentary Forum, "BRICS parliaments are establishing a platform that seeks to streamline and coordinate our parliamentary contributions to the vision of BRICS."

It is all systems go for tomorrow as the delegates to the BRICS PF are expected to sign a ground breaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will define the general cooperative strategy of the legislative organs of the BRICS Member States. The MoU will enable the members of the BRICS PF to coordinate efforts aimed at developing and strengthening the inter-parliamentary relations of BRICS Member States concerning issues of common interest.

The format of tomorrow's session, which starts at 09:30am, will include breakaways into commissions which will discuss four broad themes as follows:

i). BRICS and Africa Partnership – Promotion and Acceleration of Regional Integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA);

ii). BRICS Energy Issues – Just transition of Coal to Hydrogen Energy;

iii). Climate change and Legislative mobilization in BRICS countries; and

iv). BRICS Peace and Security: Can Multilateralism Restore Peace and Security?

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

Read more9th BRICS Parliamentary Forum (PF) Converges to Foster Multilateralism, Cooperation, and Collaboration

A National Embarrassment

Location: News

Dear Editor The 9th BRICS Parliamentary Forum held in Johannesburg this week has been marred by rank ANC incompetence, calling into question South Africa’s credibility as a reliable partner within the expanding bloc. The ANC’s complete disregard for professionalism, time-keeping, and organisation, combined with underwhelming representation from several key member countries has rendered the Forum …

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