Homeless Man’s Struggle to Keep His Beloved Dogs
The City of Cape Town has told Clayton Smith to leave De Waal Park where he has lived for 13 years
2024
How Mukuru Is Reshaping Aid Disbursements, Payroll and Bulk Commercial Payments in Malawi and Zimbabwe
Mukuru (www.Mukuru.com) is a leading next-generation financial services platform that offers affordable and reliable financial services to a customer base of over 16-million people across Africa, Asia and Europe. The company, dedicated to continuously building a strong, reliable and resilient financial payments infrastructure to allow its customers to access new physical and digital services that add value, is also transforming the landscape of commercial and aid payments through its Enterprise Payments Platform (EPP).
EPP is a secure, efficient, safe and cost-effective solution for collections and bulk payments and is built off the successful use case of Mukuru's widely known remittance services.
This case study explores how Mukuru's EPP is addressing the challenges associated with aid disbursements, payroll, and commercial transactions in underserved communities, including limited financial infrastructure, high transaction costs and issues regarding security, speed and regulations.
It examines how EPP is revolutionising bulk payments in these critical sectors, with a focus on Malawi and Zimbabwe, by tackling the difficulties businesses and aid organisations encounter when serving remote areas.
The challenge
Tererai Mare, Enterprise Market Development Manager at Mukuru, explains that before EPP, businesses and nonprofits had to rely on traditional methods such as mobile money and banks to facilitate bulk payments. “These methods presented limitations — high transaction and encashment fees, delays, and limited reach in rural areas,” Mare says. “These issues hindered the efficient distribution of aid and management of payroll, especially in vulnerable communities.”
Aid organisations faced significant hurdles in making bulk payments, while remote communities had limited access to affordable and convenient financial services. This created delays in aid reaching those in need and added financial pressure on businesses.
The solution
EPP was built on Mukuru's extensive person-to-person physical and digital payment infrastructure across Africa. The platform, known for its reach and liquidity, has many benefits, explains Mare.
These include:
- Instant payouts: Funds reach beneficiaries instantly through cash collection points or digital wallets.
- Traceability: The platform offers full transaction tracking, which enhances transparency. This is vital for aid agencies for financial reporting to secure ongoing funding.
- Competitive fees: Lower costs benefit both businesses and nonprofits.
- Extensive network: Mukuru's branches, booths and mobile disbursement teams, alongside a rich network of partner locations, provide exceptional reach across southern and eastern Africa.
- Security: The best technology and processes ensure secure transactions.
- Flexibility: EPP caters to aid, commercial, and social grant distribution needs.
Aid Agency Applications:
Malawi
Chiyembekezo Ken Ndala, Enterprise Sales Manager for Malawi at Mukuru, shares that the company partnered with CADECOM National Office for emergency flood relief in the aftermath of a recent cyclone. “CADECOM used the Mukuru platform to reach 4,520 households across several underserved areas.,” Ndala says. The timely distribution of funds allowed families to recover quickly and have their basic needs met.
Mukuru also partners with Yamba Malawi, which provides monthly stipends to teenage mothers. “Yamba Malawi supports teen mothers, each receiving $20 per month for 12 months, with an additional $100 as seed capital after six months. This funding helps them care for their children and start small businesses to break the cycle of poverty,” Ndala explains. As an ongoing project, Mukuru has disbursed over $100,000 (MK183,600,000) to these beneficiaries.
Zimbabwe
Michael Scott, Group Head of Commercial at Mukuru, says that Mukuru has built extensive partnerships with United Nations agencies, including UNICEF, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), and the World Food Programme (WFP).
“Mukuru was awarded a contract by WFP to distribute monthly cash grants to refugees at the Tongogara Refugee Camp. The EPP platform enables efficient delivery and end-to-end traceability of essential emergency funds to this vulnerable community” Scott explains.
Scott explains that Mukuru has been awarded prestigious Long-Term Agreements by both UNICEF and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), underscoring its capability and reliability in delivering essential financial services across Africa. Under these agreements, Mukuru has facilitated payments to beneficiaries under emergency social cash transfer programming in Zimbabwe, alongside the provision of payroll services and payments to vendors and workshop participants.
International NGOs, like Action Contre la Faim, have partnered with Mukuru to deliver cash transfers to remote households via Mukuru's mobile disbursement service. Mukuru's mobile teams schedule trips to these hard-to-reach areas and provide regular access to financial services, supporting a base level of financial inclusion and social upliftment otherwise not possible.
Payroll and Commercial Applications:
Mare explains that Mukuru also serves the varying needs of businesses needing to make payments to their employees, customers or smaller suppliers, who may not have bank accounts. “Many workers earn low salaries, making bank accounts unaffordable due to high transaction and maintenance fees. The EPP platform helps these workers receive payments efficiently, without encashment or ongoing account fee, addressing a major financial inclusion gap.”
On the commercial side, Mukuru partners with the likes of Cottco and Premier Tobacco Auction Floors, heavyweights in Zimbabwe's cotton and tobacco industries, to facilitate payments to small-scale farmers. “These farmers often don't have bank accounts and come from far and wide to sell or auction their goods. Mukuru's EPP ensures they receive payments securely and swiftly. A Mukuru cash voucher is as trusted as the USD cash for which it can be exchanged, but safer to travel with on long journeys to and from the auction floors,” Mare adds.
Conclusion
Mukuru's EPP platform has redefined bulk payments and aid distribution for organisations struggling with traditional methods. Whether payroll or commercial settlement for businesses, or emergency aid for vulnerable communities, Mukuru offers efficiency, transparency, and security.
With its vast network and proven ability to reach even the most remote areas, Mukuru continues to drive financial inclusion while streamlining bulk payments, reducing transaction costs, improving traceability and accountability, and minimising delays — critical when delivering aid.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mukuru.
Notes to Editor:
Mukuru is a leading next generation financial services platform in Southern Africa that offers affordable and reliable financial services to a customer base of over 16 million across Africa, Asia and Europe.
With over 100 million transactions to date, our core was built providing international money transfers and from this base, we've developed a set of services to address the broader financial needs of our customers. We now operate in over 60 countries and across over 500 remittance corridors.
We are a business that puts the customer at the centre of everything we do, and for that reason, we serve clients across physical and digital channels, by various payment methods (cash, card, wallet) as well as a range of engagement platforms including WhatsApp, USSD, contact centre, App, website, agents and a branch and booth network.
Mukuru has, for the fifth consecutive year, been listed as one of the top 100 Cross Border Payments businesses in the world in the 2024 FXC Intelligence Top 100 Cross-Border Payment Companies (https://apo-opa.co/41825jC), one of only six African companies to receive this accolade.
In 2023, Mukuru officially ranked sixth on the LinkedIn Top Companies List in South Africa.
Mukuru was celebrated for innovation and excellence at the 2023 Africa Tech Festival Awards, receiving the Fintech Innovation of the Year Award - an acknowledgment of the transformative power of financial technology in driving economic growth, financial inclusion, and digital transformation.
In 2024, Mukuru won the IAMTN Payments Network Customers Experience Excellence Award for setting a high bar in exceptional customer satisfaction in cross-border payment services. Additionally, Mukuru was officially accredited as a 2024 Top Employer in South Africa by the Top Employers Institute.
Further information can be found at https://www.Mukuru.com.
Media Enquiries:
Ammaarah Kootbodien:
ammaarah@duomarketing.co.za
(+27) 71 529 6449
Kgomotso Hlakudi:
kgomotso.hlakudi@mukuru.com
(+27) 73 333 1672
Mthokozisi Dube:
mthokodube09@gmail.com
City of Tshwane warns service providers of fraudster
City of Tshwane warns service providers of fraudster
The City of Tshwane has warned the public of a fraudster that is sending emails to service providers impersonating the City’s Chief Financial Officer about the appointment of a tender.
According to the City, the scammer is sending emails purporting to be the city’s Chief Financial Officer, Gareth Mnisi, and requesting that service providers contact them regarding the appointment of a tender to supply, deliver and off-load printing paper, files and envelopes for a period of three years, as and when required.
“The email is clearly manufactured by a fraudster and should be ignored. The public and potential service providers of the city are warned to not fall for such requests communicated via email or any other platform. The City’s tenders are advertised in various newspapers,” the city said on Thursday.
The City said it will be registering a case docket with the South African Police Service and ask them to escalate the matter to the Hawks.
“The City hopes that the fraudster will be apprehended and prosecuted for committing crime using the name of the metropolitan’s CFO,” the city said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 11/29/2024 - 11:16
272 views
Dam owners called to register their dams within 60 days
Dam owners called to register their dams within 60 days
The Department of Water and Sanitation has called on unregistered dam owners across the country to register their dams in order to ensure dam safety compliance, as required by law.
This comes as Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina, published a gazette notice calling for the registration of existing dams with a safety risk, as mandated by the National Water Act (Act No. 36 of 1998), along with Regulations 2, 3, and 37 of the Dam Safety Regulations (R 139 of 24 February 2012).
The registration process aims to ensure the safety of dams and reduce risks to the public, property and water resources.
The department’s Specialist Unit Head: Dam Safety Regulation, Wally Ramokopa said owners of dams meeting the criteria for classification as a dam with a safety risk, must verify their registration status, and submit the required forms to the Department of Water and Sanitation.
“The department considers a dam with a safety risk as a dam with a storage capacity exceeding 50 000 m³ (50 megalitres) of water, whether the water contains other substances or not, and having a vertical wall height of more than five meters, measured from the downstream base.
“Dam owners are required to update their details, if already registered and submit registration and classification forms, if not yet registered. Forms can be downloaded from the department’s website at www.dws.gov.za/dso or collected from the nearest departmental offices,” Ramokopa said.
The department enforces compliance for dam owners to conduct safety inspections at least every five years, where dam owners are required to arrange for the execution of a formal dam safety inspection by an Approved Professional Person (APP).
Ramokopa noted that when carrying out the five-yearly safety evaluation, the APP will conduct a flood frequency analysis to check whether the dam is able to route through different flood occurrences.
“This helps the department’s dam safety office in knowing beforehand whether the dam would be overtopped, should a certain size of a flood occur or potential damage of the dam. The department’s dam safety office then receives reports from APPs, which contain information pertaining to the flood handling capability and structural behaviour of dams.
“In addition to the dam safety regulations, dam owners must abide by the department’s dam safety office monitoring inspections to ensure that dam owners implement recommendations by APPs, once the dam safety evaluations are received,” Ramokopa explained.
He said failure to implement the APPs recommendations, especially when findings indicate that the dam may not be safe and has the potential to fail or cause loss of life, a directive is issued to compel the dam owners to comply.
Ramokopa issued a stern warning to dam owners who fail to comply with the regulations, emphasising that the department will not hesitate to take punitive measures to ensure compliance with the law.
“Dam owners are bound by law to comply and implement recommendations, as made by an APP after inspections are conducted. To prevent the loss of life and safeguard the environment, we will not even blink twice to ensure that dam owners do what is required of them by law,” Ramokopa emphasised.
The department is currently rolling out a mass multimedia campaign to raise awareness about the importance of dam registration, with the aim of ensuring that all dams with safety risks meet compliance standards to reduce potential harm to people, property and the environment.
The dam registration campaign is also aimed at maintaining an accurate database of dam ownership and safety compliance for effective regulation and risk management. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 11/29/2024 - 13:02
271 views
End Book Famine for Blind People, Demand Protesters
Blind SA and other organisations picket outside the Constitutional Court
Take advantage of the African trade initiatives – President
Take advantage of the African trade initiatives – President
President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged South African companies to take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade initiatives.
The President said this while delivering his annual address to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Parliament, in Cape Town, on Thursday.
On Sunday, the 1st of December, South Africa will officially take over the Presidency of the G20 group of countries.
Together, these countries account for 75 percent of the world’s trade and 85 percent of global GDP.
“As the African Continental Free Trade Area gains momentum, our companies need to expand their presence in the huge continental market that is being formed.
“We will use our Presidency to bring the development priorities of the African continent and the Global South more firmly onto the agenda of the G20,” the President said.
Through the G20 Presidency, South Africa will focus on the theme of "Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability".
“We will call on the members of the G20 to stand in solidarity with those people who are facing hardship, poverty and conflict.
“We will work to tackle inequality through fair and consistent trade rules, improved debt relief mechanisms, and increased funding for climate actions and development,” the President said.
The President emphasised that South Africa will aim to strengthen the commitment of all countries to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
“The G20 Presidency is also an opportunity to present to the world the great opportunities and experiences that South Africa has to offer,” he said.
National Dialogue
Arising from the elections in May, President Ramaphosa said the Government of National Unity has been working with other formations in society towards the convening of a National Dialogue.
The National Dialogue will encourage the participation of all South Africans, as individuals and in their various formations.
The National Dialogue will need to address the persistence of poverty, unemployment and inequality.
It will further seek to forge a new social compact on the action required by all members of society to achieve the vision of the National Development Plan.
In closing, the President recalled the words of the country’s founding President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela at the ‘Make Poverty History’ campaign in 2005.
He said: “Like slavery and apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings.”
“There are moments when the depth of poverty in our country may lead us to despair. Poverty, unemployment and inequality are so pervasive and so persistent that we sometimes fear we may never overcome them. And yet, we overcame apartheid. We overcame slavery and colonialism.
“Through our collective actions, we will be able to end poverty in our country. Together, we will be able to achieve a more just, more equal society in which all South Africans share in the country’s wealth. A society in which no one is left behind,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 11/29/2024 - 13:06
258 views
Police raid meth lab worth R100 million
Police raid meth lab worth R100 million
Police on Wednesday uncovered a crystal meth drug laboratory worth an estimated R100 million in Rietfontein, in Gauteng.
During the operation the police arrested a 39-year-old Mexican national.
“Following extensive surveillance conducted on the premises, a multi-disciplinary team comprising the National and Provincial Organised Crime Investigations (Narcotics units), National Counter Narcotics, Diepsloot and Westrand Tactical Response Teams (TRT) and West Rand K9 unit obtained a search and seizure warrant.
“The takedown led the team to seize various chemicals, drug manufacturing equipment and final product which was confirmed to be Methamphetamine commonly known as Crystal Meth or Tik,” said the police in a statement.
The team also seized cash, believed to be the proceeds of crime.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court on charges of dealing in and manufacturing of drugs as well as for the contravention of the Immigration Act. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 11/29/2024 - 13:28
236 views
President Ramaphosa honours SA Athletes for Olympic and Paralympic excellence
President Ramaphosa honours SA Athletes for Olympic and Paralympic excellence
President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed the triumphs of South African athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games at a celebratory ceremony held at the Union Buildings, in Tshwane.
The event honoured the medalists and highlighted the transformative power of sport in uniting the nation.
“This is a moment of great pride for our nation. It is a moment to express our gratitude to those who have represented our nation with such distinction on the world’s greatest stage. Today, we are not just celebrating medals and the star athletes who won them,” the President said on Friday.
The President emphasised that this is also a celebration of South Africa's spirit, the unifying power of sport, its ability to inspire, and its reminder of the strength when united as a nation.
“We are celebrating the extraordinary resilience of our athletes, their unwavering determination and their incredible talent. We are celebrating the profound symbolism that sport holds in our society,” the President said.
The President reflected on South Africa’s journey in international sport, from years of exclusion under apartheid, to reclaiming its place on the world stage during the 1992 Olympics. He noted that the country’s participation in the Games symbolises the pursuit of equality, justice, and national unity.
South Africa’s athletes returned from Paris with an impressive haul: six Olympic medals (one gold, three silver and two bronze), and six Paralympic medals (two gold and four bronze).
Key highlights of the ceremony today included the presentation of recognition awards to all medalists and the prestigious Shield of Jove to swimmer Tatjana Smith and Paralympic athlete Mpumelelo Mhlongo for their outstanding performances.
This prestigious award was donated to the South African government in 1948 by Frederick Mitchell-Hedges, a British archaeologist involved in mining in South Africa.
It is a symbol of excellence, perseverance and dedication to the pursuit of sporting greatness.
“We are also honouring the athletes that achieved the most outstanding performances at the Olympic and Paralympic Games with the presentation of the Shield of Jove.
“This year, we are proud to award the Shield of Jove to Tatjana Smith and Mpumelelo Mhlongo, in recognition of their exceptional achievements at the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games,” the President said.
He said these achievements are a testament to the investments the country has made in sports infrastructure and grassroots development.
“However, we must do more to ensure that the next generation of South African athletes has even greater opportunities to succeed,” he said.
The President emphasised the need for expanded youth development programmes, particularly in rural and underserved communities, and strengthened partnerships with schools and community centres.
“We must continue to invest in youth development, ensuring that children in every part of our country – whether urban or rural – have access to sports programmes. This means strengthening our partnerships with local schools, community centres and clubs.
“We must make sure that our youth are equipped with the skills, coaching and facilities they need to reach their full potential,” the President said.
In addition to athletes, the President acknowledged the critical role of coaches, trainers, families and sponsors, including the National Lotteries Commission and corporate partners, in supporting Team SA’s success.
“We are a nation forged in struggle, in adversity and in hope. To the Olympic and Paralympic champions with us here today, we say thank you.
“We are a nation that stands united, proud and ready for the challenges of the future. Together, we will continue to build a legacy of sporting excellence. A legacy that will inspire many generations to come,” the President said.
The event celebrated not only the athletes’ remarkable accomplishments but also the broader role of sport in fostering unity and national pride in South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 11/29/2024 - 13:49
135 views
Deputy President Mashatile clarifies position of the GNU on BELA Act
Deputy President Mashatile clarifies position of the GNU on BELA Act
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has urged all parties that signed the Statement of Intent to employ official processes following trade union Solidarity’s announcement of a settlement reached with the government regarding the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act.
Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube and Solidarity announced that they settled their dispute on Wednesday at the National Economic Development and Labour Council (Nedlac) after the union lodged a dispute concerning two sections of the Act.
In September, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Bill into law, but delayed by three months the implementation of clauses 4 and 5, which deal with school admissions and language, to make room for more discussion and deliberations after it received opposition from Solidarity, Afriforum and other sectors of society.
However, the Office of the Deputy President said it has learned of an agreement on the BELA Act from informal channels.
“The Office of the Deputy President has since written a letter to all members of the GNU [Government of National Unity] clarifying that the process that is referred to in the statement supposedly released by Solidarity is based on a process outside the sanctioned process of the clearing house of the parties that signed the Statement of Intent,” the office said.
The GNU clearing house mechanism, led by the Deputy President, was established by President Ramaphosa to address policy disagreements within the 10-member GNU regarding policy agreements and other disputes.
The GNU clearing house mechanism recently formed a task team to address concerns raised by various parties regarding the BELA Act.
“According to the statement, only one party from the GNU would have been involved in a parallel process to the one sanctioned by the GNU parties and signatories of the Statement of Intent. Based on the statement, the Minister of Education and an official from government would have been complicit in this meeting.
“The GNU and its representative parties are still engaged in a process that will be finalised soon. We call on all parties that signed the statement of intent to uphold their bona fides and cooperate with the official process,” the Deputy President said.
According to the Deputy President’s Office, the BELA Act, like other Acts, is a product of Parliament and the President. Therefore, no intervention can diminish the importance of these key role players.
“The Deputy President assures the representatives of all political parties in the GNU clearing house mechanism that processes will unfold to manage the situation collectively with members of the GNU towards finding an amicable solution.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 11/29/2024 - 14:39
25 views
SAPS recognises work of men and women in blue
SAPS recognises work of men and women in blue
The South African Police Service (SAPS) is observing this year’s 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children by highlighting the work of its men and women in blue, who work tirelessly to put behind bars those who abuse women, children and vulnerable groups.
Today, the SAPS introduces Sergeant Pule Morake (47), who is attached to the Wolmaransstad Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Investigations (FCS) unit.
Morake, having joined the FCS unit in 2010, has secured 12 life terms and an additional 500 years in prison for rapists.
His recent career highlights include the sentencing of Johannes Ontsheketse Tshabile to 11 life terms and an additional 363 years in prison.
Tshabile targeted young girls and women in the small town of Wolmaraanstad in the North West.
He would cover his face with a balaclava and drag these young women into a nearby veld, rape and then rob them at knife point.
“As a detective assigned to his cases, I used investigative tactics to gather all evidence in order to present a watertight case to the High Court,” he said.
Tshabile was linked to these offences through DNA specimens.
Morake ensured that Tshabile was put behind bars for life after the High Court of South Africa, sitting at the Klerksdorp Regional Court on 21 February 2024, found him guilty on all 65 charges, ranging from rape and sexual assault, to assault and robbery with aggravating circumstances.
He was sentenced to 11 life terms and an additional 363 years imprisonment.
Morake is appealing to all victims of gender-based violence and community members to report crime to their nearest police station for investigations to commence immediately.
“I urge all victims of gender-based violence to speak up and not to be shy to report any incidents of gender based violence to the authorities.
“Let’s work together to create a safer society for all. I have a passion to ensure that victims of sexual crimes find closure and justice in the court of law,” said Morake.
The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign commenced on 25 November and will conclude on 10 December under the theme: “30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children.” This year, the campaign emphasises prevention, economic empowerment, gender equity, positive masculinity, and accountability to address the root causes of gender-based violence and foster resilience within communities. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 11/29/2024 - 13:09
72 views
Brazilian drug mule arrested at OR Tambo International Airport
Brazilian drug mule arrested at OR Tambo International Airport
A 44-year-old female Brazilian drug mule has been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport.
The drug trafficker was arrested after landing from Sao Paulo on Thursday.
She was intercepted by the South African Police Service (SAPS) intelligence and found with cocaine wrapped around her upper body.
She faces a charge of drug trafficking and will appear before the Kempton Park Magistrate's Court soon.
This is the second drug trafficker to be arrested with cocaine wrapped around their torso this week.
On Sunday, another Brazilian male drug trafficker was arrested and found in possession of cocaine worth R1.8 million.
"OR Tambo International Airport police continue to sniff out drug traffickers as they land, sending out a strong message that SA is not a playground for drug peddlers," SAPS said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 11/29/2024 - 12:53
0 views
Last Minute Reprieve for Zimbabwe Exemption Permit Holders
The Minister of Home Affairs has extended the ZEP to 28 November 2025
Arrest of Nongoma mayor commended
Arrest of Nongoma mayor commended
KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has commended the arrest of the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Speaker of Nongoma Local Municipality on charges of fraud and corruption.
Buthelezi said the arrests send a strong message that corruption will not be tolerated and demonstrate government’s commitment to rooting out corruption and restoring accountability within the municipalities.
The MEC made the remarks during a meeting held this week at the council chamber of the Nongoma Local Municipality, where he met with all councillors and introduced Mpumelelo Bongani Mnguni as the new Acting Municipal Manager.
Mnguni’s appointment follows a recent High Court judgment, which set aside the previous appointments of the Acting Municipal Manager and Acting Chief Financial Officer.
The court judgment highlighted the significant financial strain on the municipality due to frivolous legal battles.
“The municipality faces significant financial challenges, with employee costs exceeding 50% of the budget, an overdraft, and exhausted project grants. The Acting Municipal Manager has been tasked with stabilising the financial situation and ensuring uninterrupted service delivery,” Buthelezi said.
The MEC reassured his commitment to supporting all municipalities in the province and will continue to take decisive action to uphold the law and ensure that municipalities deliver on their mandate. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 11/29/2024 - 11:50
107 views
South Africa and Nigeria to hold 11th Bi-National Commission
South Africa and Nigeria to hold 11th Bi-National Commission
President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday co-chair the 11th Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between South Africa and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, at Tuynhuys, Cape Town.
South Africa and Nigeria are this year marking 30 years of diplomatic relations, established in February 1994.
The BNC will be preceded by the Senior Officials' Meeting from 28 - 29 November 2024, and the Ministerial Meeting on 2 December 2024.
In March 2016, during the State Visit by South Africa, the BNC was elevated to Presidential level. There has been a number of exchanges of high-level visits between the two countries, including the visit to Nigeria by President Ramaphosa to attend President Tinubu’s inauguration ceremony held in Abuja on 29 May 2023.
In turn, President Tinubu attended the inauguration of President Ramaphosa in June 2024 and had an opportunity to exchange views.
“South Africa regards Nigeria as a strategic partner in the context of bilateral relations in the West Africa region, and the continent in pursuing the vision for Africa’s renewal, South-South cooperation, and in the promotion of a rules-based international system of governance. The two countries share a common vision on issues of political and economic integration of the African continent,” the Presidency said in a statement.
There are currently 34 Agreements and Memoranda of Understanding between the two countries, which cover a wide range of fields including economic, technical, scientific, social and tourism, amongst others.
The two countries share historical relations dating back to the struggles against colonialism and apartheid, during whic Nigeria supported the African National Congress and other liberation movements. Nigeria spearheaded various campaigns, calling for political and economic sanctions against the apartheid system.
In December 1989, Nigeria championed the adoption of the landmark UN Declaration on Apartheid and its Destructive Consequences in South Africa.
“The BNC is expected to further deepen the existing political relations between South Africa and Nigeria and celebrate thirty years of unbroken diplomatic relations between the two countries since 1994.
“It will also provide an opportunity to explore new possible areas of economic, trade and investment cooperation,” the Presidency said.
A business roundtable between South Africa and Nigeria will follow after the conclusion of the BNC on 3 December 2024. Nigeria accounts for approximately 64% of South Africa’s total trade with the West African Region. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 11/29/2024 - 11:58
57 views
License examiner held for bribing anti-corruption investigators
License examiner held for bribing anti-corruption investigators
A 59-year-old license examiner at the Temba driving license testing centre in Hammanskraal has been arrested after allegedly bribing anti-corruption investigators.
The official was under investigation by the Road Traffic Management Corporation’s national traffic anti-corruption unit and the Hawks - following allegations that he was involved in corrupt practices involving the fraudulent issuing of driving licences at the centre.
“It is alleged that the official offered a R50 000 bribe to investigators to sweep the investigation under the carpet. An entrapment order was obtained, and the investigators proposed that the official should meet them at a nearby shopping mall.
“The official allegedly approached the investigators carrying a white bag. He allegedly placed the bag inside the vehicle the investigators were travelling in declaring that it was R50 000 divided into two stacks,” the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) said on Friday.
He was immediately arrested and detained at Temba police station.
The man is expected to appear in court on Monday for bail application. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 11/29/2024 - 10:51
97 views
South African Travellers to Take More Holidays in 2025
- Research among over 2,000 South African travellers reveals that more than six in 10 plan to take more holidays in 2025.
- Bravecations and heritage holidays emerge as key travel trends for 2025.
- Savvy spenders on the rise as travellers seek the best value for their trips.
- AI usage in holiday planning skyrockets, alongside growing sustainability considerations.
The travel market is set to grow in 2025, according to Marriott Bonvoy's 2025 Ticket to Travel research (http://apo-opa.co/3AQaXQo) (www.Marriott.com). The study, conducted amongst 21,374 adults in 10 markets across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East (EMEA) and more than 2,000 travellers in South Africa, reveals that more than 60% of South Africans plan to take more holidays next year compared to 2024, with 18% maintaining their current travel frequency.
Surveyed South Africans are planning an average of 2.7 domestic holidays, two short-haul holidays (four-hour flight or less), and 1.8 long-haul holidays in 2025. This totals 6.5 holidays or trips, equating to more than one every two months. Among those planning holidays, the top travel destinations are South Africa (27%), USA (11%), Mozambique (10%), France (10%), and Mauritius (10%).
‘Bravecations' and ‘heritage holidays' arise as emerging trends
The research highlights several emerging travel trends. One notable trend is ‘bravecations,' where travellers are more adventurous on holiday, trying activities they wouldn't normally attempt at home. An impressive 85% of South African travellers say they are braver on holiday, the highest among all markets surveyed. This trend is particularly strong among younger travellers, with 87% of 18–24-year-olds and 91% of 25–34-year-olds expressing a willingness to try new and exciting things. Popular activities include climbing high structures (56%), participating in high-octane activities like zip-lining, skydiving or theme park rides (54%), and trying unusual foods (45%).
Another rising trend is ‘heritage holidays,' where travellers explore their family's heritage, history, or ancestry. Seventy-five percent of South Africans have taken or plan to take a heritage holiday soon. This trend is more prevalent among younger generations, with 77% of 18–24-year-olds and 88% of 25–34-year-olds having taken a heritage holiday or plan to, compared to just 42% of those aged 65 and above. Key motivations include the desire to understand where their family comes from and what their life was like (64%) and to see where their ancestors lived (53%).
Solidifying Trends
Sustainability and the use of AI in travel planning are set to become even more significant in 2025. Eight in ten travellers (80%) consider the environmental impact of their travel plans, higher than the EMEA average of 72%. Nearly eight in ten (79%) checked the sustainability of their accommodation on their last holiday, with 64% doing so before booking, far higher than the EMEA average of 30%.
The use of AI in travel planning is also growing rapidly. Nearly half (48%) of South African travellers have used AI to help plan or research a holiday, above the EMEA average of 41%. This trend is led by younger travellers, with 57% of 18–24-year-olds and 63% of 25–34-year-olds using AI in the past year, indicating its mainstream adoption among younger South Africans.
Travel Priorities for 2025
When it comes to choosing accommodation in 2025, the ‘brilliant basics' remain key priorities with cleanliness (97%), location (96%), and customer service (96%) being the most important factors.
South African travellers are family orientated, preferring to holiday with their family or partner's family and children (46%), above just their partner or spouse (36%), and friends (12%). Only five percent prefer to travel alone. Additionally, ‘spending time with friends and family' (63%) is the top priority for holidays, followed by ‘treating themselves' (54%). Over half (52%) say it is important they return feeling healthier than when they left, significantly higher than the EMEA average of 36%.
Savvy Spending
Despite planning more holidays, South Africans are keen on getting the best value for their money. The main factor that would encourage travellers to book a holiday is ‘getting a special price' (62%). Shoulder season breaks—taking vacations during the months surrounding peak season—are another popular way to make holidays more affordable. Seven in ten (70%) have or have considered doing this, with the main reason being to get better value (56%). More than half of South African travellers (46%) always consider exchange rates when planning holidays, but 14% say they ‘never usually do but will in 2025'.
Dorcas Dlamini Mbele, Area Commercial Director, Marriott International – Sub-Saharan Africa, says: “We're witnessing a profound shift towards valuing experiences over material possessions among South African travellers. Trends like bravecations and heritage holidays are at the forefront, reflecting a desire for meaningful and enriching journeys. The integration of AI in travel planning and a strong focus on sustainability further enhance this forward-thinking approach. It's an exciting era for the travel industry, and we're eager to support South Africans as they embark on new adventures and create lasting memories both locally and globally.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Marriott International, Inc..
Note to Editors:
*Research conducted by Mortar amongst 21,374 adults in the UK, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, UAE, Poland, South Africa, and Türkiye.
Click here (http://apo-opa.co/3AQaXQo) to download the report.
For more information, please contact:
Birgit Deibele
Senior Director of Communications
Marriott International - Sub-Saharan Africa
Mobile: +27 (0)67 598 9162
Email: Birgit.Deibele@marriott.com
About Marriott Bonvoy®:
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International's award-winning travel programme and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of 31 extraordinary brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalisation and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enrol for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit MarriottBonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here (http://apo-opa.co/417JjsA). Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/4149kcr), Twitter (http://apo-opa.co/49aQAda), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4149lx1) and TikTok (http://apo-opa.co/4149mkz).
HSRC survey results show signs of recovery for research and development spending in SA
HSRC survey results show signs of recovery for research and development spending in SA
Gross domestic expenditure on research and development (R&D) grew to R28.282 billion in real terms for the 2022/23 fiscal year, marking a 2.1% increase from R27.712 billion in 2021/22.
This is according to the results of the South African R&D Survey for the period 2022/23.
The proportion of R&D expenditure to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was unchanged at 0.61%.
“South Africa’s economy grew at a comparable 1.9% in 2022, so this is why the ratio of R&D to GDP, a measure of the research intensity of the South African economy, is static,” said the HSRC’s Dr Nazeem Mustapha, who led the research.
“But we are seeing improvements in business R&D expenditure, which should be encouraging for policymakers and investors.”
The survey report, prepared by the HSRC’s Centre for Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators (CeSTII), updates key national longitudinal data on R&D expenditure and personnel.
Business
The business sector increased its R&D expenditure in 2022/23 by almost R1 billion (R950 million), from R13.527 billion in 2021/22 to R14.507 billion in 2022/23.
This is attributed to higher R&D spending in manufacturing and mining, according to the survey’s statistical report, which disaggregates spending data by standard industrial classification.
Nominal expenditure increased in all institutional sectors covered by the survey, including the government, higher education institutions, non-profit organisations, and science councils.
The key funders of R&D in South Africa in 2022/23 were the government (R20.664 billion), businesses (R11.754 billion), and foreign sources (R7.060 billion).
The country’s headcount of researchers fell from 63 122 in 2021/22 to 61 457 in 2022/23.
The proportion of female researchers to total researchers increased marginally from 47% in 2021/22 to 47.6% in 2022/23.
The South African R&D Survey is conducted annually.
“Survey data provide a key signal to policy actors about where the strengths and weaknesses are in the South African national system of innovation,” said CeSTII’s Executive Head, Dr Glenda Kruss.
“A positive about the results is that we are starting to see a reversal of the drop in R&D spending that we observed in 2019/20, even before the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on R&D performers were reported.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 11/29/2024 - 10:51
38 views
How the City of Cape Town Intends to Manage the Passenger Rail Network
The City first suggested the idea in 2017. It will present its plan to council next week
Tariffs on Shein and Temu: Cheaper Clothes Versus Saving Jobs
SARS closes a loophole in import duties
Durban Families Abandoned in 2010 World Cup Transit Camp
The eThekwini municipality says there is no budget to help residents of Zamani transit camp
Banxso Associates Sue Moneyweb and Groundup
They are demanding R23-million
Project to restore eThekwini’s hijacked buildings
Project to restore eThekwini’s hijacked buildings
KwaZulu-Natal Public Works and Infrastructure MEC, Martin Meyer, has officiated the sod turning ceremony of the multi-million rand inner city building project which will turn the Esplanade Government Building in eThekwini into a self-sustaining structure.
The sod turning ceremony held this week at the Esplanade Government Building signified the start of work being done to restore dilapidated and hijacked buildings that have sat unused for many years.
Meyer said the department was moving to proactively ensure the ongoing maintenance of buildings to ensure they do not suffer the same fate as the Esplanade Government Building.
He said the revamped building will house government departments.
“We are committed to cutting back on leases paid by government departments to curb employees working in hired office spaces. We will own and maintain the building so that we can divert those costly rentals to other areas of priority.
“The department will not own assets that we do not need because they are a deficit of about R1.7 billion a year, which is unsustainable for government to pay. We will sell some of the buildings if the need arises,” Meyer said.
Once the building is completed, Meyer said it will boast environmentally friendly interventions where the lifts regenerate energy back into the building.
The building will also have PV panels on the roof and harvest rainwater.
Chief Executive Officer of Enza Construction, Clinton Crowie, said the project was scheduled to start towards the end of 2025 and be completed at the end of 2027.
“The design development period will start at the beginning of 2025 and last for between six to seven months,” Crowie said.
eThekwini Municipality Deputy Mayor, Zandile Myeni, said the municipality was pleased to see the fruits of the memorandum of understanding signed between the city and the National and Provincial Departments of Public Works.
Myeni said as part of eThekwini Municipality’s commitment to eradicate bad buildings, the teams have identified 76 buildings which are derelict, abandoned, hijacked, and overcrowded.
“Of these, 58 are privately owned and 18 are government-owned buildings. The city is working with relevant government departments and state-owned enterprises to ensure these buildings are turned around and utilised,” Myeni said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 11/28/2024 - 11:04
228 views
Hundreds Left Homeless After Shack Fire at One of Durban’s Oldest Informal Settlements
About 150 shacks at Kenville informal settlement were gutted on Wednesday afternoon
Government welcomes improvement in audit outcomes by AG
Government welcomes improvement in audit outcomes by AG
Government has welcomed the latest national and provincial audit outcomes from the Auditor-General (AG) of South Africa which reveal a remarkable leap in the number of clean audits across national and provincial government departments.
“These results show progress that has been made in strengthening financial and performance management in these two spheres of government,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said on Thursday.
GCIS said the notable improvements highlight the commitment of government entities to accountability, transparency, and efficient use of public resources.
“Clean audits reflect adherence to sound governance principles, which are essential for fostering trust and delivering quality services to citizens.
“While there has been notable progress, Government acknowledges the concerns raised by the AG regarding instances of fruitless and wasteful expenditure. These findings serve as a critical reminder of the ongoing need to strengthen oversight, accountability, and compliance mechanisms to prevent the recurrence of such issues,” GCIS said.
Government said it will continue its efforts to build a capable and developmental state that prioritises people and focuses on improved implementation capability.
This includes initiatives to enhance financial controls, upskill personnel, and cultivate a culture of ethical leadership across all spheres of government.
“Stakeholders, including public servants and communities, are urged to continue working together towards sustaining the gains that have been made and to address the challenges that remain. Together, we can ensure that public resources are used effectively and equitably to meet the needs of all citizens,” GCIS said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 11/28/2024 - 12:40
251 views