Alcohol Industry Used “Regulatory Capture” to Delay Liquor Bill, Say Researchers
Liquor Amendment Bill still not introduced to Parliament after nine years
News
Streamlining Business Operations With Advanced Management Software
In today’s fast-paced business environment, efficiency and productivity are more than just goals—they are imperatives. Advanced management software systems play a pivotal role in enhancing these aspects by automating and optimizing various business processes. This article explores how different types of management software, from Human Resource Management Systems (HRMS) to document and property management systems, …
SA officials continue to fly the country’s flag high – SAFA.net
4 April 2025 – South African match officials Luxolo Badi, Akhona Makalima and Abongile Tom will officiate at the CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations later this month. CAF has appointed Badi and Makalima as Referees while Tom will be assigned as a Video Assistant Referee. This year’s edition of the U20 AFCON will be […]
The post SA officials continue to fly the country’s flag high first appeared on SAFA.net.
A Simple Guide to Shipping Containers and Their Uses
Shipping containers have become a popular option for many projects today. They are strong, versatile, and can be used in many ways. This guide explains what shipping containers are, how they can be changed for other uses, and tips for buying one. What Are Shipping Containers? Shipping containers are large metal boxes used to …
A Simple Guide to Everyday Cleaning Products
Keeping a clean home is important for health and comfort. Many products help make daily chores easier. This guide covers some common cleaning supplies that are useful in every household. It offers simple advice and examples on how to use these products for a neat home. Cleaning Supplies for the Kitchen One of the …
Banyana set for emotional clash against Malawi as Matlou prepares for final bow – SAFA.net
04 April 2025 – African champions Banyana Banyana will take to the field at UJ Soweto Campus tomorrow, Saturday, 5 April 2025, in the first of two international friendlies against Malawi — a match that will also mark the farewell appearance of veteran Noko Matlou. Kick-off is at 15h00. This fixture carries added significance, as […]
The post Banyana set for emotional clash against Malawi as Matlou prepares for final bow first appeared on SAFA.net.
School Children in Vhembe Wake Up at 4:30AM to Fetch Water
Water is not reaching households despite millions of rands spent on water projects
IAE 2025 to Highlight Growth Opportunities in Africa’s Downstream Supply Chain
The upcoming Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 Forum will host a high-level panel – Downstream Beneficiation: Supply Chain Development for Optimal Performance – as the continent aims to enhance energy security, reduce import dependence and maximize the value of its natural resources. The session will explore how the expansion of Africa's downstream sector can strengthen supply chains, enhance refining capacity and drive sustainable economic growth through infrastructure investment and strategic partnerships.
As Africa's energy landscape evolves, optimizing downstream operations is critical to unlocking the full potential of the continent's natural resources. This session will focus on closing the infrastructure finance gap by addressing key challenges such as upgrading refineries, expanding storage and distribution networks, and developing service stations, bottling plants and transport fleets. Panelists will also examine the role of strategic hubs – such as Egypt's petrochemical industry, Equatorial Guinea's Gas Mega Hub and Algeria's emerging green hydrogen sector – in bolstering Africa's supply chain efficiency, along with key regional projects like the Central African Pipeline System and the Lobito Corridor linking Angola, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
IAE 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/43FPXaT) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.
Moderated by James Gooder, VP Crude, Argus Media, the panel will feature industry leaders offering key insights into Africa's downstream sector. Speakers include Anibor Kragha, Executive Secretary, African Refiners & Distributors Association; Tarik Berair, Commercial Development Manager, Technip Energies; Fernando Covas, Executive Director, S&P Global Commodity Insights; James Bullen, Head of Downstream, Petredec and Michael Kelly, Chief Advocacy Officer, World Liquid Gas Association.
Africa's downstream investment climate is undergoing significant transformation, with several major projects driving the sector's growth including Nigeria's 650,000-bpd Dangote Refinery, Angola's 200,000-bpd Lobito and 100,000-bpd Soyo refineries, and Algeria's 100,000-bpd Hassi Messaoud Refinery. Despite recent refinery closures, South Africa also maintains a well-developed fuel distribution network, retail stations and petrochemical production, while Mozambique is emerging as a key LNG hub, with the Coral South FLNG project already operational and the Rovuma LNG and Mozambique LNG projects currently under development.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain in securing adequate financing for infrastructure upgrades and supply chain expansion. Addressing these gaps will require coordinated efforts from governments, private investors and industry stakeholders to develop resilient and efficient downstream operations. The IAE 2025 downstream panel will provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss actionable strategies that ensure Africa's energy sector remains competitive, sustainable and responsive to global demand.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
A Guide to Choosing Plastic Seating
Plastic seating is a popular option for many homes, offices, and outdoor areas. They are affordable, easy to maintain, and come in a variety of styles. This guide offers simple information about the different types of plastic seating, how they can be used in various settings, and tips for proper care and selection. Types …
ConstructAfrica Hosts First-Ever CIAB Town Hall
ConstructAfrica (https://ConstructAfrica.com) successfully convened its inaugural ConstructAfrica Industry Advisory Board Town Hall Meeting today, bringing together influential stakeholders from across Africa's construction and infrastructure sectors.
The gathering marked a key milestone in the company's mission to provide thought leadership, strategic insights, and actionable intelligence, for the construction and infrastructure sectors in African.
The African construction and infrastructure market is projected to reach approximately $2 trillion in 2025, driven by rapid urbanization, population growth, improved governance and increased investment in infrastructure projects. The continent's need for infrastructure development is underscored by an estimated $130 billion annual financing gap, highlighting the critical need for strategic investments and innovative solutions.
The event featured participation from distinguished leaders across the infrastructure and construction ecosystem, including CEOs of engineering and construction firms, directors of multilateral development finance institutions, academic experts, and current and former senior executives in international finance. Participants hailed from various parts of the continent, including Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, and Seychelles, as well as internationally from the U.K. and Australia - underscoring the pan-African and global outlook of the board.
A key outcome of the meeting was the formation of the ConstructAfrica Industry Advisory Board (CIAB) - a strategic body of high-level professionals that will support ConstructAfrica's growth, guide its content and engagement strategy, and strengthen its reach and relevance across African markets.
The composition of the board will be announced in the coming weeks.
“Today marks a pivotal moment for Africa's construction and infrastructure landscape. By collaborating with industry leaders through the CIAB, we are not just shaping policy; we are driving transformative change that will empower communities and foster sustainable growth across the continent.” said Dr. Segun Faniran, Founder & Publisher at ConstructAfrica
ConstructAfrica delivers actionable market intelligence, construction project updates, and infrastructure data through its online platform (https://apo-opa.co/4iQdKcQ). With a focus on equipping industry players, investors, and policymakers with actionable insights, ConstructAfrica plays a vital role in building a more sustainable and better-connected construction industry across Africa.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of ConstructAfrica.
For more inquiries, contact:
Name: Dr. Segun Faniran
email: hello@constructafrica.com
Phone: +971 56 566 4792
ConstructAfrica
It’s That Time Again – Get Easter Holiday Ready!
The shops are already brimming with Easter bunnies and eggs, a reminder that the Easter long weekend is not far off. “The schools are also heading towards a short break so now is the time to get home security in order,” says Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity. Whether you are …
Cape Town Budget 2025/26: Caution Rising Costs Ahead
GOOD Statement by Anton Louw,GOOD City of Cape Town Councillor 04 April 2025 The GOOD Party is urging Cape Town residents to use the city’s rates calculator to better understand the impact of the new draft budget. After years of criticism about the Energy tariff subsidising the rates department, this has been done away with, leaving the Rates department […]
The post CAPE TOWN BUDGET 2025/26: CAUTION RISING COSTS AHEAD appeared first on For Good.
Call for African Rainbow Minerals to Stop Selling Coal to Israel
Two ships carrying South African coal are due to arrive in Israel
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality announces new appointments
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality announces new appointments
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Executive Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe, has commended the appointment of two senior managers who have been placed in acting roles for the next six months.
"We welcome these appointments. We will hit the ground running to fast-track service delivery issues, prioritise the flood related infrastructure interventions in Kariega and other affected areas,” Lobishe said of the appointments in the Eastern Cape based municipality.
This as on Tuesday, the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Zolile Williams confirmed the appointment of Ted Pillay as the Acting City Manager and Lonwabo Ngoqo as the acting Chief Operating Officer (COO).
These appointments materialise following a request by the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Council and the Executive Mayor, for a section 154 intervention through COGTA and the MEC by appointing an Acting City Manager and a COO.
The appointments come after a request from the municipality’s council and Executive Mayor for a Section 154 intervention through COGTA, aimed at strengthening the municipality's administrative and governance capacity.
Section 154 of the South African Constitution requires the national and provincial governments to support and strengthen the capacity of municipalities to perform their functions.
Speaking at a recent press conference, Lobishe said the appointments come at a time when the municipality is working around the clock to accelerate service delivery.
"We thank MEC Williams for the interventions to address service delivery challenges. We are looking forward to work with this team of experienced senior officials,” Lobishe said.
On the status of the current City Manager, Mayor Lobishe confirmed that negotiations are ongoing with Dr. Noxolo Nqwazi, who is currently on suspension, regarding the terms of her contract termination.
The municipality aims to the resolve the matter with the incumbent City Manager over the next six months.
The MEC said the interventions are based on the request that the Council has made for the specific appointments.
The acting appointments took effect from 1 April 2025.
– SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 04/04/2025 - 07:18
453 views
Summary of Premier Alan Winde’s 2025 Budget Vote Speech
As a country we are accustomed to having to do more with less, because unfortunately, too often I believe national government has not prioritised critical service delivery areas. In South Africa, we do not have a revenue problem, we have a spending problem. This is far from ideal, when the needs out there are so …
Searches for Missing Persons and Surfing Incident
The NSRI are continuing the search for an unidentified person suspected to may have gone missing in the water off Pearly Beach. A teenager not injured following a minor surfing accident – Port Alfred. An ongoing search for a missing man – West Coast PEARLY BEACH: Jean le Roux, NSRI Hermanus coxswain, said: At 18h07, …
Work continues to solve Matatiela rape case
Work continues to solve Matatiela rape case
No effort will be spared in bringing the responsible parties to account in the case of the alleged sexual assault of a seven-year-old child in Matatiele, says Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.
“What I can promise, on behalf of the Ministry of Police and the SAPS [South African Police Service] is that we are committed to upholding the law and ensuring that justice is served,” Mchunu said.
The Minister was addressing a media briefing in Pretoria on Friday.
“This is a matter that transcends individual tragedy, and we acknowledge the deep emotional impact it has had on our communities,” said the Minister, adding that the Eastern Cape matter is a sensitive one that police are handling and dealing with, with great sensitivity.
“When the matter first came to our attention earlier this year, we sent a warrant officer to investigate the matter, interact with the complainant and the investigating officer, whilst looking at other related matters.
“In the initial report we received from the warrant officer, we came to learn that the incident occurred in October last year, and a case was formally opened on the 16th of October 2024, following [the] medical examination of the minor and session with a social worker.”
The Minister said from the report provided by the warrant officer, police concluded that the matter could have been handled better and still needed intervention.
“We then realised that we needed to reinforce the team and have a dedicated officer on the matter. After the handling of the matter by the various offices, one critical aspect which has continued to present a serious challenge is the matter around DNA. DNA testing was done on the victim, with no foreign DNA having been found,” he explained.
Three persons of interest have since emerged and following that, further DNA processing is underway as the investigation continues.
“A thorough investigation is now fully underway, and I can assure you that we are consulting with all relevant role players to ensure that every aspect of this matter is examined carefully and comprehensively.”
Additionally, he said the track record of the Family Violence, Child Protection (FCS) Unit remains commendable with more than 35 500 gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) suspects arrested in the last two years.
READ | FCS unit deployed to boost Matatiele case
“During the same period, 4500 accused were convicted to time in prison for GBVF related crimes and notably, 660 of them were sentenced to life in prison. This indeed, must illustrate the seriousness at which the SAPS treats victims of GBVF related crimes especially those involving young children,” Mchunu said.
Citing police success in dealing with gender-based violence cases, Mchunu said in the past week alone, 259 rape suspects were arrested.
“This week, we have also welcomed the arrest of a 58-year-old male educator on Monday afternoon, 31 March 2025, for an alleged rape incident of a 13-year-old female learner in the Capricorn District of Limpopo. The Educator has appeared before the Mankweng Magistrates Court and is facing a charge of rape.”
Police will continue to support the family and the victim through the Employee Health and Wellness unit, including any other aspects related to the case.
“We assure the affected family of our full support and commitment to this case,” he said.
On Saturday, the Ministry of Police assured members of the public that law enforcement is actively investigating two incidences involving the rape of minors in the Eastern Cape.
This was after the Ministry took note of calls on various social media platforms regarding the tragic violation of the two minors in two separate incidences in October and November last year.
In both incidences, the suspects have been identified and were arrested. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 04/04/2025 - 14:54
27 views
SA unveils strategic economic diversification plan amid US tariffs
SA unveils strategic economic diversification plan amid US tariffs
South Africa has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the economic impact of new United States tariffs, focusing on export diversification, value-added production, and strengthening regional trade partnerships.
This is after United States President, Donald Trump, announced global reciprocal tariffs on most imported goods, with South Africa facing a 31% tariff increase.
“The new tariff regime arising from the decision by the United States of America, which have been directed not only to South Africa, but the entire world, necessitates strategic responses to maintain and grow our industrial base, as a crucial avenue to pursue inclusive growth,” the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, said on Friday.
Lamola was speaking during a joint media briefing with the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau.
He informed journalists that South Africa will continue to tackle the challenges and seize opportunities with resilience and innovation, as the country moves forward with ensuring economic growth, industrial development, and the well-being of its citizens.
Lamola outlined plans to navigate the challenges posed by the 31% tariffs set to take effect from 9 April 2025.
These include negotiating favourable trade agreements with the United States; leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost intra-African trade; and prioritising high-value manufacturing to reduce tariff exposure.
In addition, he said government remains committed to building economic resilience, exploring alternative market access through existing trade agreements and strategic partnerships with countries across various regions.
“We will intensify efforts to diversify export destinations, targeting markets across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas,” the Minister stated.
According to Lamola, government aims to reduce dependence on single export markets and foster economic resilience.
Meanwhile, he announced that the State will invest strategically in industries impacted by the tariffs, supporting economic growth through modernisation and targeted infrastructure development.
The sweeping tariff measures will affect several sectors of South Africa’s economy, including automotive, industrial agriculture, processed food and beverage, chemical, metals, and other segments of manufacturing.
According to Lamola, South Africa’s tariff and industrial strategy are designed to support industrial development, employment growth, and economic resilience.
“By aligning these policies with the national interest, South Africa will ensure that its economy emerges stronger, more diversified, and resilient in the face of global trade complexities,” he explained.
This approach will also apply to the 7 February Executive Order, which led to the withdrawal from the Just Energy Transition (JET) partnership with South Africa.
“South Africa’s average tariff is 7.6% and therefore South Africa needs clarity on the basis for the 31% to be implemented by the US.”
Lamola clarified that products such as copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, lumber articles, certain critical minerals, and energy and energy products, have been exempted from the reciprocal tariffs.
These reciprocal tariffs will also not apply to products already facing Section 232 tariffs of 25%, such as steel, aluminium, automobiles, and auto parts.
Currently, the Minister said the United States represents 7.45% of South Africa’s total exports, while South Africa accounts for only 0.4% of the United States’ imports.
“As such, South Africa does not constitute a threat to the US, and there is a trade imbalance in favour of South Africa. It is mainly on agricultural products, which are counter-cyclical, and on minerals, which are inputs in US industries.”
Highlighting the potential impact, Lamola noted that the tariffs “effectively nullify the preference that Sub-Saharan African countries enjoy under the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).”
However, despite the challenges, Lamola said government remains optimistic.
“The tariffs affirm the urgency to negotiate a new bilateral and mutually beneficial agreement with the US, that will establish more fair-trade relations with the US as an essential step to secure long-term trade certainty,” Lamola added.
Transparency in tariff calculations
Meanwhile, Tau stressed the need for confirmation from the United States on how they arrived at the tariff number, referencing international norms and standards.
He also highlighted the importance of transparency in tariff calculations, using World Trade Organisation (WTO) standards and the most favoured nations mechanism.
“And that’s why we are advocating for a reform of the World Trade Organisation and ensuring that it’s able to adapt to current reality, but also ensuring that we’re able to reinforce a multilateral system of trade and transparency across the board. Otherwise, you’re going to have an environment where there are no global rules,” Tau added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 04/04/2025 - 13:08
177 views
Exploring Soweto: A Guide to Memorable Tours
Soweto is a vibrant area in South Africa with a rich history and culture. Visitors come here to learn about the past and witness the progress of the community. This guide explains the various tour options available in the region, offers practical tips for planning your visit, and highlights what you can expect from each …
Urgent Overhaul Needed for Denel
Dear Editor Given Denel’s ongoing struggles, including the recent cutting of municipal services at its Lyttleton Campus, which impacts the headquarters of the South African Military Health Services and its formations, it is crucial to address the implications of the state-owned company’s decline on our defence sector and national security. Denel must urgently adopt a …
Correctional Facilities Worsen
Dear Editor The DA is deeply concerned by the dire state of South Africa’s correctional system, as exposed in the Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services (JICS) presentation to the NCOP this week. The DA calls for more binding powers to be availed to the Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services, so that their oversight work can …
Work underway to transform government services
Work underway to transform government services
An agreement between several government entities is set to digitally transform and revolutionise government services.
The Department of Home Affairs, the Border Management Authority (BMA), Government Printing Works (GPW) and the South African Revenue Service (SARS) concluded the agreement on Thursday.
“The agreement marks a new era that will fundamentally reform and improve the way that government works in the Republic of South Africa. In terms of the agreement, the service ecosystem composed of Home Affairs, the BMA and GPW will leverage the world-class technology capacity within SARS to revolutionise all civics and immigration services,” said the Department of Home Affairs.
As a direct result of the successful conclusion of this agreement, the public can look forward to the following improvements:
• Launch of a world-class Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system to digitalise and automate immigration procedures to eliminate inefficiency and fraud;
• Integration of Home Affairs services with banking platforms to expand access to Smart ID and passport services to hundreds of bank branches as well as to banking apps;
• Creation of an option to select secure courier delivery of documents that eliminates the requirement to collect documents only at Home Affairs offices;
• Upgrading of the Movement Control System (MCS) at all ports of entry; and
• Introduction of Smart IDs for naturalised citizens and permanent residents.
“This list of reforms also represents only the most immediate priorities for the next twelve months, with many more to follow over the term of the seventh administration in pursuit of our vision to deliver ‘Home Affairs @ home,’” said the department.
Additionally, it added that work to roll out the improvements is now in full swing, and that it will announce their activation on an ongoing basis.
Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber said: “It is difficult to overstate the significance of what we have jointly achieved with [the] adoption of this historic agreement. SARS is a world-class institution that must never be taken for granted, and I want to thank the Commissioner and his team for their visionary commitment to breaking down silos in the interests of South Africa.”
The Minister also applauded the unwavering commitment of the Home Affairs, BMA and GPW teams in embracing the power of digital transformation.”
“The beauty of this shared approach is that delivering on our vision to digitally transform Home Affairs services will yield major benefits to both us and SARS. For example, the creation of a biometrically secured digital identity platform will enhance the ability to crack down on fraud and collect outstanding revenues, while the digitalisation and automation of immigration processes through the ETA will improve customs collection,” he said.
The agreement was jointly signed by SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, Home Affairs Director-General Tommy Makhode, BMA Commissioner Michael Masiapato, and GPW Chief Executive Officer Alinah Fosi. -SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 04/04/2025 - 11:52
105 views
A Guide to Delicious Catering Options
When planning an event, finding the right food and catering service is very important. There are many choices available that can satisfy any taste and budget. This guide covers a range of options for both casual and formal events, offering advice and real-life examples to help you make a good choice. Variety of Food …
Constitutional Court Refusal of Zuma’s Leave to Appeal Welcomed
The FW de Klerk Foundation welcomes the Constitutional Court’s order, affirming public confidence in the judiciary and protecting journalists from vexatious litigation aimed at intimidating and silencing journalists.
The post THE FW DE KLERK FOUNDATION WELCOMES CONSTITUTIONAL COURT REFUSAL OF ZUMA’S LEAVE TO APPEAL appeared first on FW de Klerk Foundation.