CSA To Host SA U19 Women CAMPS To Launch Journey Towards 2027 World Cup
TSHWANE: Cricket South Africa (CSA) is gearing up to host two national training camps for the South Africa Under-19 Women’s team...
2024
Treasury and SASSA Granted Leave to Appeal Ruling on SRD Grant
“Due to the complexity and seriousness of this case…it deserves the attention of the Supreme Court of Appeal,” says Judge Leonard Twala
A Competition to Drive Eswatini’s Artisans to Success
The European Union (EU) and International Trade Centre (ITC) launched a unique competition to empower Eswatini's artisans by providing game-changing support to small businesses. This collaboration, with a Toyota 2.8 GD6 vehicle as the grand prize, aimed at driving innovation, market expansion, and new opportunities.
When Bafanabethu ‘Bethu' Gina, Managing Director of Favourite Designs, entered the competition, he saw it as more than just an opportunity to win a vehicle worth close to €18,000 – it was a chance to accelerate his company's expansion.
Favourite Designs, a fast-growing furniture and décor manufacturing enterprise in Eswatini, has been paving its way in the artisan industry. He uses traditional techniques like grass weaving to create baskets, lamp shades and other homewares with a modern sensibility.
‘This vehicle is more than just a mode of transport – it's a game-changer for our business,' says Bethu. ‘It will allow us to reach new customers, access rural suppliers more efficiently, and expand into the South African market. Our goal is to triple our market size by leveraging this opportunity to grow beyond Eswatini.'
Preserving culture with innovation
Founded in Matsapha, Eswatini, Favourite Designs combines modern design principles with traditional Swati craftsmanship. The company works closely with rural artisans, particularly women, sourcing raw materials and helping to preserve Swati cultural identity through handcrafted pieces. Bethu sees his role not only as a designer and entrepreneur but as someone who inspires fellow artisans to integrate design thinking into their craft, making their products more competitive in the global market.
‘I love how Emaswati artisans have preserved our culture through beautiful, handcrafted work, passing down traditions from generation to generation,' he says. ‘I see Eswatini's artisan and design industry growing substantially in the next five years. But we need to inspire artisans – both aspiring and practicing – to intentionally apply design principles from conceptualization to realization. This will enhance product quality and make Eswatini crafts globally competitive while preserving our cultural heritage.'
Plans to scale are in motion
Favourite Designs is a key participant in the EU, ITC, and House on Fire Artisanal Incubator Programme, which nurtures emerging businesses in the handcraft and artisanal food sectors. Through this initiative, Bethu's company has:
- Showcased work at major events like the MTN Bushfire Festival and Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival
- Collaborated with international designers, including Finnish designer Mari Koppanen
- Featured at prestigious international exhibitions, such as the Paris Design Show in 2024
The new Toyota 2.8 GD6 vehicle will expand these opportunities. It will help Favourite Designs connect with international buyers, attend trade shows, and access key regional markets like South Africa. He'd already been saving for a vehicle so that he can meet with his rural suppliers and make deliveries to customers. Now he can use those savings to invest in other parts of his business.
The EU seeks to foster space for enterprise creativity
The EU and ITC structured this competition not just as a giveaway but as an opportunity to reward resilience and innovation.
‘Rather than a simple donation, we designed a competition to reward an entrepreneur who has demonstrated resilience and innovation,' said EU Ambassador to Eswatini, Karsten Mecklenburg. ‘Favourite Designs has shown exceptional growth potential, and we are confident this vehicle will be instrumental in their success.'
Bethu's winning competition entry video creatively told the company's story while addressing the competition's objectives. He structured the submission like a design brief, integrating a script, storytelling elements, and real footage from his journey with ITC since 2023.
‘I wanted to demonstrate the progress we've made as a result of ITC's intervention and how the vehicle would boost our operations and growth,' he explains. ‘The first minute of the video is a skit showcasing how we would use the vehicle, followed by three minutes of our ITC-supported journey, and a final call-to-action statement. I shot and edited everything using just my mobile phone.'
Favourite Designs is a shining example of how local businesses can scale internationally with the right support, vision, and innovation.
With a new vehicle and growing recognition, Favourite Designs is well on its way to becoming an international success story.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Trade Centre.
Bail hearing for SASSA fraud accused postponed to April
Bail hearing for SASSA fraud accused postponed to April
The bail hearing for seven South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) officials and three accomplices accused of fraud has been postponed to 1 April 2025.
The accused appeared before the Lenasia Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, facing more than 1 000 fraud-related charges.
Four of the accused were arrested last month, while another four were taken into custody on Friday. Two more suspects handed themselves over on Sunday and Monday, respectively.
SASSA Acting Chief Executive Officer, Themba Matlou, welcomed the arrests, emphasising the agency’s commitment to eradicating all forms of fraud and corruption elements within its ranks.
“What we have seen in the last few weeks is a culmination of the hard work of our officials, working with the South African Police Service (SAPS) in clamping down on fraud and corruption at SASSA,” Matlou said.
He further urged the public to report any suspicious activities related to social grants.
“We cannot win this fight alone. We appeal to members of the community to assist us to root out the scourge.”
SASSA has urged members of the public to work together with the agency and report grant fraud or corruption to 0800 60 10 11 or the National Anti-Corruption Hotline on 0800 701 701. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 03/19/2025 - 09:21
432 views
4-Day Series Set for Resumption
DURBAN: The Division 1 4Day Series resumes this week after a near three-month break for the limited-overs leg of the...
Kenya’s President Ruto Awards African Development Bank’s Adesina Highest National Honour
- “I am proud of the journey we started together ten years ago; I can see its fruits. Kenyans can feel its benefits,” President Ruto
- “What a great honour! What a rare privilege! What a historic recognition!” Adesina
Kenya's President H.E. William Samoei Ruto has conferred the country's highest honour, Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart CGH, on the President of the African Development Bank Group, Dr Akinwumi Adesina (www.AfDB.org).
Dr Adesina becomes the 20th recipient of the honour that was established in 1967 and first awarded to Kenya's founding father and former President, H.E. Jomo Kenyatta. Others include globally renowned leaders such as former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, South Africa's Nelson Mandela, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, Uganda's Yoweri Museveni and Kenya's subsequent Presidents Daniel arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta and Dr Ruto.
During a colourful investiture ceremony at Nairobi's State House, President Ruto praised Dr Adesina's distinguished service, commitment, and passion for the economic development of Kenya and Africa.
President Ruto congratulated Adesina and told him, “You are amazing. You are a great leader. You deserve this honour and investiture.”
The two leaders share a warm relationship that dates back 20 years when Adesina lived and worked in Kenya for the Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa, AGRA. At that time Ruto was Kenya's Minister for Agriculture. Both recalled how they worked together to provide subsidies to farmers despite opposition at the time from some donors and global financial institutions.
President Ruto said under his presidency he has continued with the same policy of offering subsidies to farmers, leading to an increase in the country's food production.
“Our maize production increased from 40 million to 70 million bags last year. Our sales from tea, generated more than 220 billion shillings [approximately $1.7 billion], the highest ever earnings.”
“I am proud of the journey we started together ten years ago; I can see its fruits. Kenyans can feel its benefits,” President Ruto told Adesina who was accompanied by his wife, Mrs Grace Yemisi Adesina.
In its citation, the Kenya government recognized Adesina as a distinguished economist and a global development leader.
“He transformed the African Development Bank into a globally recognized institution for financial innovation and development impact and grown the Bank's general capital from $93 billion to $318 billion,” the citation reads.
In his acceptance speech, Adesina said: “I am greatly humbled by your incredible kindness! What a great honour! What a rare privilege! What a historic recognition!”
Adesina spoke about Kenya's special place in the history of the Bank which was established in 1964. Since then, the Bank has financed a total of 167 projects, with financial commitment of $7.8 billion.
He said the Bank's current portfolio in Kenya consists of 45 projects worth $4.09 billion. They include, among others:
- The Last-Mile Connectivity electricity project, which has helped to increase the number of Kenyans connected to the national electricity grid from 2.42 million households in 2014 to 9.7 million households in 2024.
- The expansion of the Thika-Nairobi Highway, which has drastically reduced travel time from 2-3 hours to just 30-45 minutes between the two destinations.
- The Bank is providing $634 million for the Kenya Town's Sustainable Water Supply and Sanitation project. This includes 314.92 million Euros for the construction of the Thwake Multipurpose Water Dam, to be completed by July 2026. It will provide water to about 1.3 million people in Kitui and Makueni counties, as well as the Konza Techno-City in Machakos County.
- The Bank's support for the private sector in Kenya includes over $700 million in lines of credit to more than eight commercial banks.
President Ruto said the Bank's support to the country's mortgage sector has boosted the government's national housing programme, with 150,000 houses under construction, generating jobs for 260, 000 youth.
Speaking about Kenya's high youth unemployment, Adesina pointed to several youth riots that shook the country last year.
In addition to providing $309 million for eight on-going projects targeting skills development, Adesina said the Bank is preparing for Board approval, financial support for the establishment of a Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Bank of Kenya.
“This will be a stand-alone financial institution, that will be 100 percent dedicated to providing technical assistance, debt and equity financing for youth businesses in Kenya.”
Adesina was accompanied by Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth Dr Kevin Kariuki, the Vice President for Regional Development, Integration and Business Delivery Nnenna Nwabufo; the Director General for East Africa, Kennedy Mbekeani; the Executive Director for Eastern Africa, Jonathan Nzayikorera; and his Senior Advisor to the President for Communication and Stakeholder Engagement Dr Victor Oladokun, who delivered the opening prayer for the ceremony.
“This is an honour that I will cherish for life,” Adesina said. “It will be a constant reminder that the country I love so much, Kenya, loves me back, appreciates and celebrates my leadership at the African Development Bank, and values and honours the incredible contributions of the Bank to its development. I accept this honour with great humility.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
To look at the album click here (apo-opa.co/3FzwNt7).
About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org
African Markets Digitalize Mining Licensing to Boost Investments
African countries rich in minerals are accelerating the digitalization of their mining licensing processes to attract investment and maximize resource exploitation for economic growth. As part of this push, Zambia launched its Zambia Integrated Mining Information System last month, aiming to streamline the awarding of licenses. The digital platform is set to play a key role in attracting mining partners and help the country reach its goal of increasing copper production to 3.1 million metric tons by 2031. This launch follows a record-breaking $9.3 billion in mining investments in 2024 and a 79% increase in permits granted, reflecting growing global interest in Zambia's mining potential.
As African markets increasingly adopt digital solutions to simplify licensing procedures, African Mining Week will be at the forefront of this transformation, showcasing the vast potential of the continent's digitalized mining sector. The event will highlight lucrative investment opportunities across various markets, featuring numerous mining blocks being licensed by African nations.
South Africa, historically a major gold producer, plans to leverage its first digital mining licensing system to attract new investors and diversify its mining sector. Set for launch by June 2025, the system will improve the efficiency and transparency of the licensing process, reducing the time required to initiate new mining projects, including those for platinum group metals, according to Gwede Mantashe, South African Minister of Mineral Resources and Petroleum.
Tanzania is also streamlining its mining sector with a new licensing management system designed to maximize investments in lithium, graphite and rare earth minerals – commodities that are experiencing soaring global demand. According to Aziza Swedi, Acting Director of the Tanzania Mining Commission, the country has issued 54,626 mining licenses over a seven-year period through November 2024, with plans to expedite future licensing via its digital platform.
Rwanda has embraced digital transformation in its mining sector with the launch of the Inkomane Digital platform in October 2024. Companies such as Aterian have aligned their mineral trading operations with this tool. The platform connects mining companies, trading partners and regulatory bodies like the Rwanda Revenue Authority, enhancing compliance, workforce management, payroll generation and monitoring of mining activities. Similarly, Nigeria introduced its Mineral Resources Decision Support System in May 2024 to attract investors to its vast solid mineral reserves. The platform serves as a one-stop shop, offering easy access to geological and policy data while enabling investors to seamlessly apply for mining permits.
As more African nations integrate digital tools into their mining sectors, African Mining Week will spotlight the digitalization of mining operations across the continent. The event will feature discussions on new licensing systems and highlight the investment opportunities emerging as African nations unlock their mineral wealth.
African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 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.
Alleged Eskom fraudster Michael Lomas granted R2 million bail
Alleged Eskom fraudster Michael Lomas granted R2 million bail
Eskom fraud and corruption accused Michael Lomas, has been granted R2 million bail by the Johannesburg High Court.
Lomas appeared in court on Monday and is facing charges in relation to a R745 million payment made by Eskom to Tubular Construction Project.
The company was involved in the construction of Kusile Power Station, in Mpumalanga, where millions of rands were allegedly paid to Eskom officials in illegal gratuities for the awarding of lucrative contracts.
The British businessman, a former contractor for power utility Eskom, was extradited from the United Kingdom in September 2024 to face 65 counts of corruption
Spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority’s Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), Henry Mamothame, said Lomas’ bail was granted under "stringent conditions".
The court ordered that his United Kingdom passport and his South African Identity Document be surrendered to the investigating officer.
“[Lomas is] barred from applying for travel documents, reside at a care home where he will be provided with the necessary assistance, details of the home to be provided to the investing officer, source a smartphone with location monitoring facility to be monitored by the investigating officer and should not leave the Gauteng jurisdiction without informing the investigating officer,” Mathomane said.
Lomas has been indicted with 11 co-accused in the case, including Eskom’s former senior manager for capital contracts, France Hlakudi, former Eskom group executive for group capital Abram Masango, Tubular Construction Projects’ former chief executive, Antonio Trindade, and businessman Maphoko Kgomoeswana.
The trial is expected to commence in July 2026. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 03/18/2025 - 08:05
359 views
Simelane commits to implement recommendations into George building collapse
Simelane commits to implement recommendations into George building collapse
Human Settlements Minister, Thembi Simelane, has undertaken to implement all recommendations contained in the final report of the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC) into a building that collapsed in George, in the Western Cape in 2024.
The current preliminary report suggests that several procedures were not followed, a breach of the Housing Consumers Protection Act Measures Act, 1998 (Act No. 95 of 1998) and the recently signed Consumer Protection Act 25 of 2004.
NHBRC is a regulatory body established to protect the interests of housing consumers and to regulate the home-building industry in South Africa.
Its primary functions include ensuring that home builders are registered and adhere to prescribed building standards and ethical practices and conducting inspections during various stages of construction to ensure compliance with national building regulations and technical standards.
“Upon its finalisation, should it happen that there are procedural flaws and compromise of NHBRC building standards, we will not hesitate to refer its recommendations to the law enforcement authorities for investigation and possible criminal charges,” Simelane said.
The Minister underscored that if any crime was committed, including by her officials at NHBRC, she would not hesitate to act.
She acknowledged that the George building collapse was of public interest, and committed to taking the nation into her confidence once the final report has been concluded.
The Minister urged the nation to be patience as the process is at an advanced stage.
“The Ministry of Human Settlements will not conduct further media engagements on the matter while a final report is being prepared.” – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 03/18/2025 - 10:14
107 views
AEW 2025 to Address South Africa’s Power Crisis
South Africa faces a critical energy challenge: securing a stable power supply while transitioning to a low-carbon future. The African Energy Chamber's (EnergyChamber.org/) State of African Energy 2025 Outlook Report provides a detailed analysis of this shift, highlighting the country's continued reliance on coal, the slow pace of renewable energy integration and the urgent need for infrastructure investments to modernize the grid. These insights will set the stage for key discussions at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Invest in African Energies, where industry leaders will examine how South Africa and other mature markets across the continent can balance energy security with decarbonization.
Coal remains the cornerstone of South Africa's power generation, contributing over 80% to the energy mix. This heavy reliance has led to ongoing load-shedding – constraining industrial productivity, discouraging investment and limiting GDP growth to less than 1% annually over the past decade. Addressing this crisis requires urgent intervention through infrastructure investment, diversification of the energy mix and policy reforms to enhance grid stability and efficiency. This will be a key focus for stakeholders at AEW 2025, where discussions will center on accelerating the transition to a more resilient and diversified energy system, enhancing the role of renewables and gas-to-power solutions, and attracting critical investments to modernize the grid and reduce dependence on coal.
In response to the energy crisis, South Africa has embarked on integrating renewable energy sources. The Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program has been instrumental, with over 7.2 GW of solar PV and 3.6 GW of onshore wind capacity installed by the end of 2023, collectively accounting for over 17% of the country's total installed capacity. Gas-to-power projects have also emerged as a viable solution, with the government issuing requests for proposals for 2 GW of such projects in late 2024. Concurrently, battery energy storage systems are being developed, with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy launching bid rounds totaling over 1.7 GW/6.9 GWh of storage capacity.
South Africa's Just Energy Transition Investment Plan has drawn global interest, securing $8.5 billion in commitments from partners including France, Germany, the UK, the US and the EU. However, disbursement remains a challenge, with only $1.9 billion allocated to date – primarily for grid expansion and support for coal-mining communities. As the country navigates the complexities of a large-scale transition, key issues such as grid constraints, the integration of renewables and ensuring a stable, sustainable energy supply will be addressed at AEW 2025.
Taking place in Cape Town, AEW 2025: Invest in African Energies serves as the premier platform for South Africa and the broader African continent to tackle the critical energy challenges shaping the region's future. The event will highlight strategies to integrate cleaner energy sources while maintaining grid stability and affordability, as well as emphasize modernization of grid infrastructure, addressing capacity constraints and enhancing transmission networks to support a diversified energy mix.
Beyond technical solutions, securing large-scale investments will be a key priority, as Africa seeks to attract capital for sustainable energy projects that ensure both energy security and environmental responsibility. By convening industry leaders, policymakers, financiers and innovators, AEW 2025 will drive forward collaborative solutions, policy reforms and strategic partnerships essential for unlocking Africa's full energy potential and fostering long-term economic growth.
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
Can JP Van Der Walt’s 42.935 Seconds Record From 2024 Be Beaten?
Exciting manufacturer entries in Road Car and Supercar category from BMW, MINI, Opel and Suzuki, along with Mercedes-AMG and MG in class A8 for hybrids and EVs Dazzling array of desirable supercars encompassing Audi, Ferrari, McLaren and Porsche, along with a strong contingent of exclusive Shelby Mustangs New King of the Hill winner will be […]
Minister Dion George Announces Proclamation and Implementation of Climate Change Act
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, is pleased to inform the members of the public that the President, His Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa, has proclaimed the Climate Change Act, 2024 (Act No. 22 of 2024) (the Act). The proclamation notice was published in the Government Gazette on 17 March 2025, which is therefore the commencement date of the Act.
The Act is intended to enable the development of an effective climate change response and a long-term, just transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy and society for South Africa in the context of sustainable development; and to provide for matters connected therewith.
Furthermore, the Act lays the foundation for a green economy that is resilient, inclusive, and future-focused. By creating a clear framework for climate action, the Act will drive innovation, foster sustainable industries, and support job creation in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and eco-tourism, among other sectors.
Dr George said, “The Act represents a critical milestone not just for environmental sustainability, but for economic development and job creation. We are committed to ensuring that climate action becomes a catalyst for driving economic growth, creating jobs, and building a sustainable future for South Africa.”
The Act reflects the government's commitment to achieving a just transition to a low-carbon economy, ensuring that climate action goes hand-in-hand with economic empowerment and job creation. As the country, much like the rest of the world, faces growing environmental and economic complexities, the Act provides a vital framework for securing a prosperous and sustainable future for all South Africans.
It must be noted that although the Act has come into operation, the commencement of certain provisions of the Act, namely, sections 12(6), 13(1), 13(2), 13(3)(b), 14(3)(a), 15(5), 15(6), 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25(4)(c), 26(2) to (6), 27, 28 and 30(2)(a) and (b), has been deferred to a later date. The reason for deferring these specific provisions is that the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is developing a set of regulations that will enable implementation of these provisions. Some of the draft regulations are at an advanced stage of development and will be gazetted for public input and comment soon.
The DFFE will continue to keep members of the public informed of the finalisation of the regulations and the full implementation of the Climate Change Act.
“The recent severe weather conditions that have caused havoc in different parts of the country are a stark reminder of the urgent need for decisive climate action and my Department will continue to work hard towards achieving our mandate,” said Dr George.
A copy of the Act, Gazetted Proclamation Notice, and the Deferred provisions of the Act can be accessed on the following links:
Climate Change Act: https://www.dffe.gov.za/sites/default/files/legislations/cca_assented_g50966vol709n5050.pdf
Climate Change Act proclamation: https://www.dffe.gov.za/sites/default/files/legislations/cca_commencement_g52319pn251.pdf
Deferred provisions of the Act: https://www.dffe.gov.za/sites/default/files/legislations/cca_deferredprovisions_g52319pn251.pdf
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.
Winners of MARS 2024 for Best African Women and Young Researchers announced
- Merck Foundation announced the winners of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS Awards winners 2024, 5 Researchers from 5 different African Countries recognized under two categories - Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers.
- Merck Foundation also announced the Call for Applications for new edition of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS Awards 2025 to empower Women and Youth in STEM in Africa with special focus on ‘The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care'.
Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, announced the Winners of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2024, in partnership with International Federation of Fertility Societies -IFFS, Africa Reproductive Care Society - ARCS, Manipal University and African Union Scientific Technical Research Commission to recognize African Researchers for their valuable research work and contribution to empowering women and youth in STEM in Africa with special focus on ‘The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care'.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit - MARS expressed, “Since 2016, I have taken immense pride in recognizing the achievements of our MARS Awards winners. This year, we honor Six Winners in two categories: ‘Best African Women Researchers Awards' and ‘Best African Young Researchers Awards.'
These awards celebrate their significant contributions to research, particularly highlighting the efforts of African women researchers, who remain underrepresented in this field. Through the MARS Awards, our mission is to empower young researchers in Africa and to specifically encourage and support women researchers by enhancing their research capabilities and promoting their vital roles in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).”
The winners of ‘Best African women Researchers Awards' and ‘Best Young African Researcher Awards' will be enrolled into research training at a premier research institute in India.
“And I am also very happy to share with you all that as promised, we provided an opportunity to our first-place winner of each category to attend the 11th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary which was recently conducted in Tanzania, however, only Mr. Jules Irenge Mongane was able to attend it”, shared Senator Rasha Kelej.
Merck Foundation is committed to improving the lives of people and has been transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with its partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, by providing 2080 Scholarships for doctors from 52 Countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.
The MARS 2024 Award Winners are:
Winners of “MARS Best Women African Researchers Awards” 2024
- Nompumelelo Lebogang Malaza, SOUTH AFRICA (First Position)
TOPIC: Association Between Biochemical And Epigenetic Markers With Glycaemic Control And Neonatal Outcomes In Diabetic Pregnancies
- Dorotheah Obiri, GHANA (Second Position)
TOPIC: Immune dysregulation in placental malaria and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy
Winners of “MARS Best Young African Researchers Awards” 2024
- Jules Irenge Mongane, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO (First Position)
TOPIC: Association Between Bacterial Vaginosis, Chlamydia Trachomatis Infection And Tubal Factor Infertility In Bukavu, Democratic Republic Of Congo
- Christian Chassem Lapue, GABON (Second Position)
TOPIC: Epidemiology of helminthiases in women of reproductive age living in Lambaréné and its surroundings, Gabon
- Gebrhud Berihu Haile, ETHIOPIA (Second Position)
TOPIC: Incidence of neonatal mortality and factors influencing neonate survival in neonatal intensive care unit in Northern Ethiopia: a prospective cohort study
“I am also excited to announce the Call for Applications for the new edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2024. This year, special focus will be again on “The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care,” added Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.
Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit - MARS 2025 will have scientific support from African Union Scientific-Technical and Research Commission (AU-STRC); African Reproductive Care Society (ARCS), and Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE).
Details for MARS AWARDS 2025
Abstracts are invited from final year African PhD students and young investigators involved in research related to either of the following topics:
1) Women Health
2) Infertility and Reproductive Health
All applicants should be primarily based at African Research Institutes and Universities, although collaboration within Africa as well as outside is also welcome.
Last Date of Submission:
Applications can be submitted till 30th June 2025
How to apply:
Apply by clicking: https://apo-opa.co/4isHnAO
Alternatively, the Applications and abstracts can be submitted via email to mars@merck-foundation.com, along with CV (including Name, Gender, Country, University/Hospital Name, Email address, Mobile Number) and the abstract document as an attachment.
Other Details:
- All Abstracts will be peer reviewed.
- Research Awards will be dedicated for two categories of Best African Women Researchers and Best Young Africa Researchers.
- Winners will be eligible for Research Training in prestigious Research Institute in India.
- Top Winners will be invited to attend the 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.
Contact details:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
+91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com
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About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/41xveDB), X (https://apo-opa.co/41BacUz), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/41woQwo), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/428prpk), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/428prpk) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4hbYfdK).
The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.
South Africa, Dutch collaborates to improve water management
South Africa, Dutch collaborates to improve water management
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), together with the Dutch Water Authorities, have held a Blue Deal Steering Committee meeting, focusing on the Blue Deal South Africa Programme, which aims to improve water management and access to clean water in South Africa.
According to the department, the meeting, held in Pretoria, on Friday, aimed at enabling environment for future Blue Deal partnerships, discuss lessons learned from the various projects, and provide strategic direction to address key bottlenecks.
“This Blue Deal Programme is a collaboration between the Republic of South Africa and the Government of the Netherlands to support water management by exchanging knowledge and experiences, assisting national, regional, and local organisations, and cooperating with key stakeholders. The Blue Deal South Africa Programme will specifically contribute to clean and sufficient water,” the department said in a statement.
During the meeting, the two parties discussed the Crocodile River Revitalisation Action Plan and its adoption and the Theewaterskloof Project Non-Sewer Sanitation pilot project.
“The Crocodile River faces threats of pollution from agriculture, industry, and municipalities. The performance of the wastewater treatment plants in the area is inadequate. The challenge is to improve the operation of the municipal wastewater management systems to ensure better water quality in the river.
“The objective of the Theewaterskloof project is to reduce pollution by improving sanitation and solid waste management through innovative solutions, such as non-sewered sanitation and harnessing the circular economy.
“General discussions covered the status of ongoing projects, a recap of 2024 Blue Deal activities, the outlook for the 2025 projects, and developments regarding international collaborations,” the department said.
DWS Director of International Relations, Albert Mmbidi said: “Today was an important day in the history of the Blue Deal programme. As a team, we managed to review the progress that the project has already made, the challenges, and we proposed solutions to the issues raised.
“We are confident that out of the solutions we have proposed, the programme will be able to run efficiently and strengthen the relationship between the two countries,” Mmbidi said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 03/16/2025 - 12:23
543 views
Simelane commits to support Free State in delivering housing units
Simelane commits to support Free State in delivering housing units
Human Settlements Minister, Thembi Simelane, has pledged to support the Free State Province in its efforts to meet the 2024-2029 target to deliver housing units to qualifying beneficiaries.
Simelane made the commitment during an oversight visit to the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality on Friday, as part of a nationwide assessment of municipal and provincial performance in human settlements programmes.
The visit aimed to address ongoing service delivery blockages within the province.
The visit also formed part of a country-wide municipal and provincial assessment of human settlements programme performance.
Addressing the provincial Human Settlements and Mangaung Municipality, Simelane discouraged working in silos between the provincial department and municipalities.
She emphasised that overcoming the housing backlog and ensuring the delivery of sustainable human settlements, can only be achieved through coordinated efforts.
While acknowledging the progress made to ensure the qualifying beneficiaries receive their houses, with some contractors already on the ground, the Minister expressed concern over several incomplete projects across the province.
“We are gearing ourselves for the current 2024-2029 Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) to deliver on our mandate. With our limited budget, we are aligning our plans to ensure that we effectively use our allocated budget,” Simelane said.
The Minister reiterated the critical role that contractors play in delivering housing units and warned against those who have been given opportunities to “do the right thing and deliver houses.”
She also issued a stern warning to both contractors and officials who fail to meet their responsibilities, saying that there would be consequences against those who let down the people.
“A delayed project means one senior citizen is denied his or her constitutional right to adequate shelter,” Simelane said.
Simelane further undertook to visit the Metros every quarter, to ensure that housing and service delivery targets are being met.
She also underscored the importance of ensuring that every cent allocated to the department is spent towards improving the lives of deserving households.
Human Settlements MEC, Teboho Mokoena, challenged the Minister to consider visiting the province more frequently, suggesting every two months, and reiterated the province's commitment to improving service delivery.
Mokoena also emphasised budget constraints, which remains a challenge, noting that this will have an impact in the department’s programme.
“Progress is being made on several projects that were blocked including G-Hostel and Dark and Silver City. The qualifying beneficiaries are expected to incrementally move into the completed units during the 2025/2026 financial year,” Mokoena said.
The MEC highlighted the province’s struggle with completing housing projects due to a range of issues, including multiple contractor changes in due to non-performance, vandalism at abandoned sites after contract terminations, community disruptions and non-compliance issues, financial constraints, non-payment of completed work certificates, and bureaucratic delays in the approvals of variation orders and claims.
However, Mokoena assured that interventions are being implemented, including the appointment of new, reliable contractors, and regular monitoring and reporting, to ensure projects stay on track.
“Despite these challenges, the province has done exceptionally well in the provision of serviced sites. By January 2025, the province reported the successful delivery of 5 025 service sites against the 1755 2024/2025 target. Most of the sites delivered are in Fezile Dabi District Municipality,” Mokoena said.
Simelane is expected to return to the Free State to officially hand over completed units at Dark and Silver City Community Residential Units, as well as military veterans’ housing units at the Vista Park Catalytic Project, in Mangaung.
The Vista Park project is a massive development aimed at providing much needed housing opportunities.
The department said extension 2 of the project is expected to yield over 5 344 residential housing opportunities, while extension 3 will produce around 6 036 residential opportunities.
The project is also expected to deliver the Breaking New Ground (BNG) units, including social housing, First Home Finance, and student accommodation. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 03/16/2025 - 14:41
235 views
Simelane commits to support Free Sate in delivering housing units
Simelane commits to support Free Sate in delivering housing units
Human Settlements Minister, Thembi Simelane, has pledged to support the Free State Province in its efforts to meet the 2024-2029 target to deliver housing units to qualifying beneficiaries.
Simelane made the commitment during an oversight visit to the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality on Friday, as part of a nationwide assessment of municipal and provincial performance in human settlements programmes.
The visit aimed to address ongoing service delivery blockages within the province.
The visit also formed part of a country-wide municipal and provincial assessment of human settlements programme performance.
Addressing the provincial Human Settlements and Mangaung Municipality, Simelane discouraged working in silos between the provincial department and municipalities.
She emphasised that overcoming the housing backlog and ensuring the delivery of sustainable human settlements, can only be achieved through coordinated efforts.
While acknowledging the progress made to ensure the qualifying beneficiaries receive their houses, with some contractors already on the ground, the Minister expressed concern over several incomplete projects across the province.
“We are gearing ourselves for the current 2024-2029 Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) to deliver on our mandate. With our limited budget, we are aligning our plans to ensure that we effectively use our allocated budget,” Simelane said.
The Minister reiterated the critical role that contractors play in delivering housing units and warned against those who have been given opportunities to “do the right thing and deliver houses.”
She also issued a stern warning to both contractors and officials who fail to meet their responsibilities, saying that there would be consequences against those who let down the people.
“A delayed project means one senior citizen is denied his or her constitutional right to adequate shelter,” Simelane said.
Simelane further undertook to visit the Metros every quarter, to ensure that housing and service delivery targets are being met.
She also underscored the importance of ensuring that every cent allocated to the department is spent towards improving the lives of deserving households.
Human Settlements MEC, Teboho Mokoena, challenged the Minister to consider visiting the province more frequently, suggesting every two months, and reiterated the province's commitment to improving service delivery.
Mokoena also emphasised budget constraints, which remains a challenge, noting that this will have an impact in the department’s programme.
“Progress is being made on several projects that were blocked including G-Hostel and Dark and Silver City. The qualifying beneficiaries are expected to incrementally move into the completed units during the 2025/2026 financial year,” Mokoena said.
The MEC highlighted the province’s struggle with completing housing projects due to a range of issues, including multiple contractor changes in due to non-performance, vandalism at abandoned sites after contract terminations, community disruptions and non-compliance issues, financial constraints, non-payment of completed work certificates, and bureaucratic delays in the approvals of variation orders and claims.
However, Mokoena assured that interventions are being implemented, including the appointment of new, reliable contractors, and regular monitoring and reporting, to ensure projects stay on track.
“Despite these challenges, the province has done exceptionally well in the provision of serviced sites. By January 2025, the province reported the successful delivery of 5 025 service sites against the 1755 2024/2025 target. Most of the sites delivered are in Fezile Dabi District Municipality,” Mokoena said.
Simelane is expected to return to the Free State to officially hand over completed units at Dark and Silver City Community Residential Units, as well as military veterans’ housing units at the Vista Park Catalytic Project, in Mangaung.
The Vista Park project is a massive development aimed at providing much needed housing opportunities.
The department said extension 2 of the project is expected to yield over 5 344 residential housing opportunities, while extension 3 will produce around 6 036 residential opportunities.
The project is also expected to deliver the Breaking New Ground (BNG) units, including social housing, First Home Finance, and student accommodation. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 03/16/2025 - 14:41
82 views
Two More Lottery Officials Dismissed After Appeals Fail
Former acting chief operating officer and a Durban-based client liaison officer were summarily dismissed last year
SA’s narrative therapist nominated for Women Changing the World Awards
SA's narrative therapist nominated for Women Changing the World Awards
South Africa’s world-renowned Narrative Therapist and Psychosocial Specialist, Ncazelo Mlilo, has been nominated in the prestigious Women Changing the World Awards.
The awards, according to a statement by psychosocial organisation, Phola, are like the Grammy Awards for recognising women across the world who are doing incredible work, making a positive difference in various industries and areas, including business, sustainability, leadership, health, education, product development, innovation, and technology.
Mlilo, who is based in Johannesburg, has been selected for two categories, the People’s Choice Award for Non-Profit and Social Enterprise, and the Women in Therapy and Counselling Services Award.
This recognition celebrates the groundbreaking work in mental health, her development of Afrocentric, culturally sensitive narrative-based methodologies, and her dedication to empowering communities worldwide.
The awards ceremony will take place during a summit in London, in the United Kingdom on 2-3 April 2025.
Mlilo has over 25 years’ experience in trauma counselling.
She has worked with children, youth, women, families, and communities to address the effects of HIV/AIDS, gender-based violence (GBV), poverty, conflict, and other hardships.
Mlilo co-created the Tree of Life (ToL) Methodology, currently used in over 60 countries including the USA, Brazil, Australia, Canada, Iran, India, Germany, Japan, Sweden, and across Africa.
She has developed other methodologies like COURRAGE, the Narratives in the Suitcase Project, O.U.T.R.R.A.G.E.D. for GBV prevention.
Mlilo trains over 1 000 mental health practitioners worldwide every year, with her work reaching an estimated 100 000 people, annually.
She is also a prominent keynote speaker at international conferences, including the Trust’s Collective Narrative Practices Conference, held in 2024 in Australia, the Narrative Therapy Centre Conference, where she spoke about the Narratives in the Suitcase, held in Australia in 2023, among others.
As a result, her work is the intervention of choice in these global institutions, like the Dulwich Centre Foundation in Australia and NHS Foundation Trust in the UK. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 03/14/2025 - 12:07
46 views
White – Ball Action Awaits SA Rural XI and SA Forces XI
GQEBERHA: SA Rural XI and SA Forces XI are set to face each other in a round of white-ball matches...
Two arrested for murder, attempted murder and possession of drugs
Two arrested for murder, attempted murder and possession of drugs
The police’s Anti-Gang Unit have arrested two people in two separate incidents of murder, attempted murder and possession of drugs in Nigel and Naturena in Gauteng.
In the early hours of Wednesday, members of the Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) acted on intelligence regarding a wanted suspect linked to a murder and attempted murder case in Nigel.
Upon arriving at an identified place in Nigel, a 25-year-old man was found and identified as the wanted suspect.
In a separate incident on the evening of Tuesday, members received information regarding another wanted suspect connected to a murder case reported at SAPS Langlaagte.
“Initial leads directed the team to Westbury, however, the suspect was not located at that address and the team was further led to a residence in Naturena,” the police said in a statement.
While there, they encountered a 26-year-old female who identified herself as the wanted suspect’s girlfriend.
During their inquiry about the suspect’s whereabouts, the members were informed that he had been arrested the previous day on unrelated charges.
Upon requesting permission to search her, the female voluntarily disclosed that her bag contained illegal substances.
A subsequent search revealed over 300 mandrax tablets, ziplock bags containing crystal meth, with an estimated street value of R15 050 and cash. The female suspect was arrested for possession of drugs. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 03/14/2025 - 10:13
71 views
Former Lottery Exec Fights Back Over r4.7-Million Farm
SIU says the farm was bought with stolen Lottery money
Cabinet condemns Israel’s blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza
Cabinet condemns Israel's blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza
Cabinet has condemned Israel's refusal to allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, and its closure of border crossings.
This at a time when " the people of Gaza are experiencing immeasurable suffering" and urgently need food, shelter, and medical supplies.
Speaking during a post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said this action is a continuation of Israel’s “use of starvation as a weapon of war as part of the ongoing campaign of what the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled to be plausible genocide against the Palestinian people.”
“Cabinet reiterates our nation’s call on the international community to hold Israel accountable and ensure the safe, continuous, and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to all areas of the Gaza Strip,” Ntshavheni said at the briefing held in Cape Town.
Earlier this month, South Africa condemned the refusal of Israel to allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip.
READ | SA condemns Israel’s refusal to allow aid into Gaza
In a statement issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, the department said: “South Africa concurs with Qatar, one of the guarantors of the ceasefire agreement, that halting the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip is a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement, international humanitarian law, and the Fourth Geneva Convention.”
In December 2023, South Africa filed a case against Israel at the ICJ, saying it is committing acts of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.
The ICJ issued a provisional ruling in January 2024, ordering Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza and take measures to prevent genocide. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 03/13/2025 - 13:22
474 views
How Much Does Our HIV Response Depend on US Funding?
Critical services in some high-burden districts have collapsed
Cabinet welcomes GDP growth in fourth quarter of 2024
Cabinet welcomes GDP growth in fourth quarter of 2024
The 0.6% increase in South Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP) in the fourth quarter of 2024 signals a recovery across the economy, says Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.
“Cabinet is confident that the increased focus and pace of delivery on economic structural reforms, improved service delivery and State capacity, and increased participation of the private sector will spur further growth of the economy in 2025 and beyond,” the Minister said during a post-Cabinet media briefing in Cape Town on Thursday.
According to Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), South Africa’s GDP increased by 0.6% in the fourth quarter of 2024, following a decrease of 0.1% in the third quarter of 2024.
“The agriculture, forestry and fishing industry increased by 17.2%, contributing 0.4 of a percentage point to the positive GDP growth. This was primarily due to increased economic activities reported for field crops and animal products.
“The finance, real estate and business services industry increased by 1.1%, contributing 0.3 of a percentage point. Increased economic activities were reported for financial intermediation, real estate activities and other business services,” Stats SA said earlier this month.
The trade, catering and accommodation industry increased by 1.4%, contributing 0.2 of a percentage point. Increased economic activities were reported for wholesale trade, retail trade and motor trade.
Investments
Meanwhile, Cabinet welcomed the announcement by Microsoft South Africa that it will invest R5.5 billion in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure in the country.
“This investment will strengthen South Africa’s position as a leading Artificial Intelligence hub on the African continent and builds Microsoft South Africa’s R20.4 billion investment over the past three years.
“Microsoft South Africa also announced their contribution to developing South Africa’s digital literacy by paying for technical certification for 50 000 individuals in high-demand digital skills.
“In further uplifting our investment profile, Indian car manufacturer, Mahindra, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with South Africa’s Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to explore the possibility of setting up a full-scale vehicle assembly plant in the country,” the Minister said.
Mahindra already has an assembly plant of Pik Up range of vehicles in Durban operated by AIH Logistics.
The company recently celebrated the production of their 25 000th locally assembled Pik Up vehicles [range of bakkies].
“Cabinet reminded every South African as direct shareholder in South Africa Incorporated (SA Inc.) of their vested interest in promoting our country as an investment destination in a globally competitive environment. We must continue to speak with one voice in defence of our national interest, our sovereignty and our constitutional democracy,” the Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 03/13/2025 - 12:12
94 views