MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
In an industry traditionally dominated by men, GoGirl Logistics stands out as a beacon of empowerment and diversity. As a 100% black female-owned business, the company is not only breaking barriers but also setting new standards for what a logistics company can achieve. This article aims to shed light on the importance of black and …
Building fire tragedy 'a very difficult lesson' that must not be repeated: President Ramaphosa
The building fire which claimed the lives of at least 74 people in Johannesburg should serve as a “wake up call” for the urgent need to resolve housing challenges in the inner city, according to President Cyril Ramaphosa.
He was addressing the media at the site of the building – called the Usindiso Building – on Thursday evening.
“We are very saddened as government about the passing of so many people here in Johannesburg. This is unprecedented. Johannesburg has never had an incident like this where so many people die as a result of a fire in the centre of the city. This is tragic, this is very sad and I want to pass my condolences and that of the government to the families of those who have passed on and those who are still in hospital.
“We’ve got to [get] to the bottom of what caused this fire. It’s a wake-up call for us to begin to address the situation of housing in the inner city that a building like this…once the lease had expired, it was then hijacked and we need to get on top of this and find effective ways of dealing with problems of accommodation of housing and services in the inner city,” he said.
Swift response
President Ramaphosa said the emergency and social response in the aftermath of the report of the fire in the early hours of Thursday morning was in line with expectations.
He said this demonstrates that the “determination to care for the people of South Africa is…a top priority”.
“I’m told that as soon as the fire was reported at 1:19 in the morning, in ten minutes the firefighters were here. That is a real good and quick response which we must recognise on the part of the province, the city, that they have been ready for calamities and events like this. A response of 10 minutes when such a devastating fire is something that needs to be recognised.
“The sad part is that much as they fought the fire, they were not able to save everyone and some people were saved…but it’s said that we have lost up to 74 people and some of them children who must have died very tragically and this is the type of death that we never wish on anyone.
“The ministers, the MECs and the province and the city are working now full out to make sure that those who need assistance from accommodation to trauma counselling to hospitalisation are being looked after,” he said.
Rooting out criminality
The President addressed the fact that the Usindiso Building belongs to the City of Johannesburg but was hijacked by “criminal elements” who prey on those in desperate need for accommodation.
“The lesson for us is that we’ve got to address this problem and root out those criminal elements because it is these types of buildings that are taken over by criminals who then levy rent on vulnerable people and families who need and want accommodation in the inner city.
“There needs to be law and order in the inner city. The initiatives that we are embarking on through our security forces…one of those, working with the city and with the province, we are going to ensure that we root out all criminal elements and restore the livelihoods of people who live in the city,” he said.
President Ramaphosa emphasised that when dealing with buildings such as the Usindiso Building, government must carefully balance the constitutionally mandated right to housing with dealing with criminality.
“We are not standing here to shift blame and to pass blame on anyone. And if anything, we are all responsible for the calamity that has occurred and we need to take it in [our] stride and say, yes this should never have happened, yes we should be learning a lesson and sometimes these are very difficult lessons that have been sparked off by loss of life.
“But nonetheless, this is a lesson and yes, I repeat, a wake-up call because we don’t want to see a repeat of what has happened here. So therefore, we need to look at…the regulations, the laws and everything.
“We have achieved a great deal. Our constitutional construct has given all of us a right that we’ve always yearned for. But we’ve always found that we go through a number of processes as we try to do the right thing. At the same time, there’s either too many delays, too many detours that then make it difficult for us to do the right thing at the right time,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 08/31/2023 - 20:02
Kodwa launches Heritage Month
Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa has officially launched this year’s Heritage Month at the Moletjie Tribal Authority.
Hosted in the rich, unique, and culturally diverse province of Limpopo, the event featured a medley of various components of sports, arts, language, and cultural performances.
Heritage Month is celebrated annually in September and marks the country’s diverse culture and heritage.
The 2023 National Heritage Month will be commemorated under the ‘Celebrating our cultural diversity in a democratic South Africa’ theme.
“This year’s theme puts a spotlight on South Africa’s rich and diverse cultural heritage which incorporates African, Asian, and European cultures and traditions,” said the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.
Minister Kodwa said music and dancing are an important part of many traditional African societies.
“We do our traditional dance because it gives us our African identity.”
He also touched on the importance of breaking into song and music as Africans.
“Music is our soul. When we cry, [when we are] happy or saddened, we sing music. Those who do not understand us think when we have bereavement or a death in a family and when we dance, they think we are celebrating. But we’re consoling ourselves.”
“Many centuries ago, we were not allowed to celebrate what we see here,” he added, pointing to the stage where traditional dancers were performing.
He told attendees that Heritage Day is about “celebrating who we are”.
Kodwa also called on Africans to tell their own stories.
“Those books must promote the African culture and diversity of our culture,” he stressed, while adding that traditional leadership is crucial to promoting African culture.
He also urged all Mayors to organise cultural events leading up to Heritage Day, which will be celebrated on 24 September.
The event also unveiled publications of Living Human Treasures in honour of the late Koko Meiki Grace Masuku, Themba Patrick Magaisa, Vho Tshimangadzo Esther Sinyengwe, Oom Petros Vaalbooi and Dr Thomas Hasani Chauke. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/31/2023 - 18:21
The Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises received briefings from the Department of Public Enterprises on its first quarter performance report for the 2023/24 financial year, and on progress regarding Eskom restructuring yesterday.
Briefing the committee, the Acting Director-General of the department, Ms Jacky Molisane, informed the committee that the department has drafted the National State-owned Companies Bill, which is currently undergoing consultations. She said a draft business case for the proposed holding company has been prepared for consultation.
The committee heard that following broad consultation on the Eskom Debt Relief Bill, it was passed by National Assembly and sent to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) for concurrence in May 2023, where it was passed on 21 June 2023. The Bill was sent to the President for assent and it was assented into law on 5 July 2023 (Act 7 of 2023). The committee also heard that the National Treasury is finalising the strategic conditions of compliance for Eskom to enable the conversion of the loan into equity.
Regarding the three Eskom companies that were separated and operationalised, Ms Molisane said that the National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) was established, it was registered and incorporated as a wholly owned subsidiary of Eskom. Ms Molisane told the committee that application of approval for the revised transmission licence was submitted to the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) in September 2022.
On 27 July 2023, the NERSA approved the licence of the NTCSA to operate the transmission system (excluding the Trading and the Import/Export applications) within the national boundaries of the Republic of South Africa. NERSA stated that trading and the import/export applications will require further consideration before being submitted to NERSA's electricity subcommittee.
The committee was concerned about the department's delayed processing of the SOC Bill. The committee also questioned the need for Eskom to be unbundled into three companies, including one for distribution, without considering municipalities for distribution. The committee stressed that the municipalities should have full control of the distribution of electricity in communities within their jurisdiction.
The committee indicated that Eskom supplies electricity to the entire country, converting debt to equity. It said Eskom is not generating revenue, which has a direct impact on Eskom's liquidity, hence the government must intervene all the time.
On Transnet, the committee was of the view that Transnet has made progress in creating space for the private sector to participate, but questioned why the private sector would invest in an unprofitable business and what this says about job security for Transnet employees.
On the issue of the closure of the department, which was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa when he delivered the 2023 State of the Nation Address, Ms Molisane said they are awaiting promulgation by the President. The department will start the process of closure after that.
The Deputy Minister of the department, Mr Obed Bapela, who led the department during presentations, said: “The DG and the team are engaging officials in that the department is coming to an end, the matter of officials. The process is under way to discuss a way forward, which also includes organised labour.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Accenture Song has been appointed digital and direct agency partner for Telkom – one of South Africa’s providers of communication services, following a competitive pitch process. This win holds notable significance as it marks the first piece of business for the newly positioned tech-powered creative group, firmly establishing its credentials as a new breed of …
Introduction The Krugerrand, a gold coin that has its roots in South Africa, has been a symbol of wealth and a solid investment opportunity for decades. Whether you’re an investor looking to sell Krugerrand or a potential buyer exploring the market, understanding the intricacies of this gold coin is crucial for making informed decisions. …
Recognising women in science and technology
By Dimpho Mogale
The South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA), which recognises and rewards excellence by women in science and technology, will take place in September.
The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) will host a two-day celebration from 8 September in Durban.
Themed, ‘Harnessing technological change and innovation to achieve gender equality and empower women and girls,’ the awards recognises younger women who are starting their careers as researchers and scientists, as well as registered master's and PhD students.
Participants will be awarded in the following categories:
The category DSI Fellowships was renamed to DSI-Ndoni Mcunu Fellowships in honour of Mcunu’s memory and legacy as a young brilliant scientist and phenomenal woman.
The late Mcunu was one of South Africa's leading young scientists in climate change, a social entrepreneur, and the founder of Black Women in Science (BWIS).
BWIS has provided developmental training to over 400 postgraduate fellows in business, entrepreneurship and research skills, scientific writing, project leadership, science communication skills and research career preparation.
During her lifetime Mcunu achieved numerous accolades including being named a 2017 Mandela Washington Fellow, receiving an honorary award at the KZN Young Achievers Awards in the Science Research and Entrepreneurship category, winning the Gagasi FM Shero award in the Science and Technology category and recognised as one of the 40 under-40 African Leaders for Climate Resilience in 2019.
The DSI and 2023 SAWiSA has 26 finalists and one of the finalists selected is Gizelle Roque Van Niekerk from the University of Pretoria, who is a second year MSc student.
In 2022, she attended the 14th Green Chemistry Postgraduate Summer School (GCPSS) in Venice, Italy.
“I am grateful to Pietro Tundo for seeing potential in me as a young scientist by selecting me to attend the in-person event on scholarship.
“The 14th Green Chemistry Summer School was a life-changing experience and instrumental to my future career as a chemist. It was an honour to present my research at such a prestigious international summer school.
“The opportunity reinforced my belief that green chemistry solutions are a fundamental course of action for sustainable development in the Global South,” Van Niekerk said in a statement.
She said it was a privilege to engage with postgraduate students from a broad spectrum of countries and found the talks given by highly influential scientists very inspiring.
Networking with people who share the same common goal encouraged her to fervently continue the ground-taking field of green chemistry. – SAnews.gov.za
seshnee
Thu, 08/31/2023 - 14:14
The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will pay a Working Visit to Moroni, Comoros, tomorrow, 1 September 2023, to have a bilateral meeting with her Comorian counterpart, His Excellency, Dhoihir Dhoulkamal, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
The two Ministers will, among others, assess the status of the Bilateral relations between South Africa and Comoros.
They will also share information and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest. The two Ministers will also sign a General Cooperation Agreement, meant, among other objectives, to establish a Joint Commission at the Senior Official's Level. Through the Joint Commission, it is hoped that an increased level of cooperation across various sectors between the Comoros and South Africa will take place.
Minister Pandor will also use the opportunity of her working visit to Comoros to pay a courtesy call to His Excellency, President Azali Assoumani, the President of Comoros, who is also the current Chair of the African Union.
On the sidelines of the visit, Minister Pandor will also have an engagement with the Comorian Business Community, Women Leaders and Youth Entrepreneurs during lunch, under the theme: Women and Youth as active participants in the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The engagement will be hosted by the Governor of Ngazidja, Madam Sitti Faroutta and be attended by the Comorian Minister of Economy and Investment, His Excellency, Ahmed Ali Bazi, and other dignitaries.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sadness at the significant loss of life inflicted by a fire in a residential building in Marshalltown, Johannesburg, in the early hours of today, Thursday, 31 August 2023.
By 08h30 today, the reported death toll stood at 73, while scores more are injured and receiving medical treatment.
President Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes injured survivors a speedy and full recovery.
The President's thoughts are also with households and individuals who have lost their accommodation and possessions in this incident.
The President said: “This is a great tragedy felt by families whose loved ones perished in this awful manner, and our hearts go out to every person affected by this event.
“This incident calls on all of us, from the emergency services and other entities of government to community-based organisations, to reach out to survivors to help restore people's physical psychological wellbeing and offer all material help residents may need.”
President Ramaphosa hopes the investigations into the fire will enable communities and authorities to prevent a repeat of such a tragedy or to bring to book any culpable parties.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.
This year, the announcement of the winners of the prestigious African Conservation Awards will be held at the Southern African Wildlife College on 16 September 2023 and hosted by the Game Rangers Association of Africa (https://www.GameRanger.org/).
The Awards will take place after a regional event of the Wildlife Ranger Challenge, a Pan-African initiative which will see ranger teams across the continent compete against each other in a 21km race, carrying 22kgs on their backs! The Southern African Wildlife College is a perfect venue to host both these important events on the ranger calendar.
Each organisation and individual that has been shortlisted has shown remarkable determination to succeed when the odds have often been stacked against them. Conservation areas continue to face many challenges, including limited resources and working against criminal syndicates. Despite this, remarkable people continue to do amazing things for wildlife and the communities who benefit from it.
“The African Conservation Awards showcase extraordinary people doing extraordinary things for nature. It is our privilege to give them the recognition they so richly deserve. Well done to all the nominees who continue to inspire us with their dedicated contribution to conservation. We look forward to celebrating their exemplary efforts!” Andrew Campbell, Chief Executive Officer of the Game Rangers' Association of Africa.
60 nominations from 11 countries across Africa were received this year. What is also very encouraging to see is the increase in nominations of female rangers which resulted in half of the finalists in the Field Ranger and Game Ranger categories being female. We are also excited to see the different countries across Africa represented among the finalists. Highlighting the quality of nominations this year, we have a “Highly Commended” acknowledgment in each of the four categories. Although these are not finalists, they deserve special mention and must be applauded.
The finalists for this year's African Conservation Awards, listed in alphabetical order below, are:
Field Ranger:
Game Ranger:
Conservation Team:
Conservation Supporter:
Highly commended nominations by the judging panel for their excellent work were given to Field Ranger Owenyo Alphonse (Uganda) and Marine Ranger Tima Dago (Kenya); Game Rangers Ali Hassan (Kenya) and Simon Ewoi (Kenya); EWT Soutpansberg Rangers (South Africa) for Conservation Team and Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital (South Africa) for Conservation Supporter.
These awards are hosted annually by the Game Rangers' Association of Africa (GRAA) and are made possible with the generous support of sponsors CNEI. His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, who is committed to the protection of endangered species through the support of his Foundation, is the Patron of the African Conservation Awards.
The winners of each category will be announced on 16 September at SAWC where they will be celebrated by their ranger colleagues.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Game Rangers Association of Africa.
Contact persons:
Louise de Bruin
info@gameranger.org
Casey Pratt
casey@loveafricamarketing.com
Please join us on social media here:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.info/3ElcHze
Instagram: https://apo-opa.info/3EkEuzF
Information:
GRAA background:
The Game Rangers' Association of Africa (GRAA) is a non-profit organisation, founded in 1970 which provides support, networks and representation for rangers across Africa. The GRAA is a proud member of the International Ranger Federation (IRF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) where it serves as the voice of the African ranger.
After five decades at its Pinetown facility, Bata South Africa, a leading footwear manufacturer in South Africa, and a subsidiary of the respected global Bata Group, has relocated its head office to the vibrant corporate hub of La Lucia, situated north of Durban. This strategic move aligns with Bata South Africa’s future growth strategy. Renowned …
The Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies concluded a symposium on Wednesday in which discussions with industry stakeholders took place on the impact of digital media in misinformation, disinformation and content moderation ahead of the 2024 national elections.
The two-day symposium was held at the Government Communications and Information Systems building in Hatfield, Pretoria. TikTok, Meta, Google and the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) took part in the symposium, among other roleplayers.
Other stakeholders who participated included Media Monitoring Africa, SOS, Research ICT Africa and the National Association of Broadcasters. The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies led all presentations on day one, followed by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa, the Films and Publications Board, SABC and the Independent Electoral Commission. Presentations mainly focused on measures that will be put in place to guard against misinformation, disinformation and content moderation in the 2024 election season.
The Chairperson of the committee, Mr Boyce Maneli, said that the symposium has empowered members of the committee with the knowledge to exercise effective oversight over the department and the entire communications sector. “The past two days have presented us with a unique opportunity to pave a way forward in ensuring that misinformation, disinformation and content moderation never thrive in the upcoming elections,” said Mr Maneli.
Mr Maneli further said that Parliament through collaboration with industry players should ensure strict implementation of sector regulations. He also said that digital skills will go a long way in minimising misinformation, content moderation and disinformation.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
COVID-19 Taxi Relief Fund disbursement extended
Cabinet has approved the extension period for the payment of the Taxi Relief Fund for another 12 months.
Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, explained during a Post Cabinet briefing that the fund was established to assist minibus taxis, cabs and e-hailing drivers who experienced a financial knock during the COVID-19 hard lockdowns, in line with stipulated criteria.
“The extension will provide the Department of Transport sufficient time to assist the many taxi operators who are yet to receive the relief funds,” the Minister said on Thursday.
To date, she said 88 580 taxi operators have been assisted.
Ntshavheni was briefing the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.
Tourism
Meanwhile, Cabinet also approved the publication of the Green Paper on the Development of Tourism in South Africa for public comment.
“The policy seeks to develop and promote tourism in South Africa, and address barriers to tourism growth.”
The policy will promote rural and peri-urban tourism by encouraging the profiling and visibility of rural products.
“Policy proposals also focus on tourism governance and cooperation, safety and security management, transformation, and embracing technology, amongst others.”
Members of the public have 90 days to make comments on the policy and the Green Paper is available on www.tourism.gov.za.
National Policy on Theatre and Dance
In addition, the Executive said it also approved the National Policy on Theatre and Dance.
“The policy seeks to address the historically institutionalised inequalities and disparities, which follow racial and economic access lines in theatre and dance.
“The policy aims to set a vision and practical policies, strategies, implementation mechanisms and time frames that will result in a sustainable and vibrant theatre and dance sector in all nine provinces, with South African dance and theatre makers representing the country with pride continentally and globally.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/31/2023 - 11:30
Cabinet notes continued improvement in electricity availability
The Cabinet continues to receive an update on the electricity situation in the country and notes reports of the continued improvement in electricity availability.
This is according to the Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who was briefing the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.
“Although the last few days had recorded an increase in the load shedding stages to Stage 4, the situation has since improved with the return of units to generation and Eskom continues to taper down the load shedding stages,” Ntshavheni said on Thursday.
The state-owned power entity announced this morning that load shedding would jump to Stage 4 as more generating units failed last night.
Minister Ntshavheni also spoke about the communities that have no electricity due to power outages and not load shedding.
These power outages, the Minister said, are caused by system overload due to illegal connections, theft or vandalism of sub-stations and transformers, and vandalism of distribution lines.
The affected communities include parts of Soweto, Tembisa, KwaThema, Komane, Taung and Ditsobotla.
Ntshavheni announced that the Ministers of Electricity and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs have since commenced with a programme to engage with the affected communities to agree on measures to replace damaged infrastructure.
However, the Minister said this would be linked with the prohibition of illegal connections, community partnerships in the protection of electricity infrastructure, and payment for electricity services.
“South Africa’s agreement with the Chinese companies, on recently signed agreements, will play a significant role in introducing electricity infrastructure with self-preservation capability.”
Western Cape Provincial Powers Bill
In addition, Ntshavheni said the Executive has also been briefed about the “unconstitutional” draft Western Cape Provincial Powers Bill.
The Bill creates a framework for the province to fully assert its existing constitutional and legislative powers and to get more powers delegated from the national government.
“The Draft Bill violates the provisions of Schedules 4 and 5 of the Constitution that set out powers and functions including concurrent powers of both the provincial and national executives.”
“Cabinet has noted that this draft Bill is an attempt to revert to the Democratic Party’s, forerunner to the Democratic Alliance preferred federal approach that seeks to undermine a united and inclusive South Africa,” the Minister explained.
In addition, she said the Draft Bill ignores the exclusion from access to services of the large Black communities of Khayelitsha, Gugulethu, Nyanga, Langa, the Cape Flats, Delft, and Central Line, among others.
“Cabinet has mandated the Ministers of Justice and CoGTA to enter into discussions with the Western Cape provincial government in line with the relevant dispute resolution mechanisms as provided for in section 146 of the Constitution and the applicable intergovernmental framework.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/31/2023 - 11:05
“I would never take trips from Nyanga and Philippi” says Uber driver
I did nothing wrong, says Collins Tshisimba as the Special Investigating Unit moves to freeze two properties
This comes two weeks after the town was brought to a standstill with violent protests
Embarking on a remarkable endeavour, Angela Yeung, the visionary founder of the Impilo Collection Foundation and the ambassador of brand South Africa – play your part, is gearing up for an extraordinary climb up the daunting Manaslu, standing tall at 8,136 meters. This challenge surpasses her previous triumph on the Island Peak at 6,200 meters …
SA to commemorate International Overdose Awareness Day
Social Development Deputy Minister Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu in partnership with the Central Drug Authority (CDA) and the South African Network for People Who Use Drugs will on Thursday join the global community in commemorating International Overdose Awareness Day.
Observed under the theme: “Recognizing those people who go unseen”, the commemorations will be held at the JB Marks Rehabilitation centre in Potchefstroom in the North West province on Thursday.
International Overdose Awareness day seeks to raise awareness around the silent killer that is overdose and the stigma that surrounds overdose fatalities, and that overdose deaths are preventable.
The observance of the day is part of the department’s implementation of the National Drug Master Plan 2019-2024, which is the country’s blueprint to combat the scourge of alcohol and substance abuse that has exponentially risen to epidemic proportion.
According to Harm Reduction International “overdose is a risk when using many psychoactive drugs, but is much common for some drugs such as opioids. It is especially common for people who use a combination of substances and those who inject drugs”.
Naloxone is known to rapidly reverse an opioid overdose by helping breathing return to normal, and return a person to consciousness but is sadly underused.
From 1 September 2023, for nine consecutive days across all nine provinces, the Deputy Minister will be educating South Africans about the dangers of Foetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder (FASD).
FASD is a leading source of non-genetic developmental and intellectual disability globally and is usually associated with primary and secondary disabilities. South Africa has been identified by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to have the highest reported prevalence of FASD in the world. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 08/30/2023 - 09:56
SA records more than 4 million tourist arrivals
South Africa’s tourism sector continues to show strong recovery with the first half of 2023 recording more than four million tourist arrivals.
“Our arrival numbers for 2023 are looking good, demonstrating that South Africa is still a favourable tourist destination and we are eager to welcome more tourists as we head into the busy summer season,” said Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille.
She said the arrivals demonstrate that South Africa is still a favourable tourist destination.
“South Africa’s tourism sector continues to exhibit strong recovery with the first half of 2023 recording more than 4 million tourist arrivals, according to the latest data from Statistics South Africa [Stats SA]. This is a significant increase from the 2, 3 million tourist arrivals between January and June 2022.
The total number of tourist arrivals to South Africa between January and June 2023 showed a sizable 78.2% surge in the first half of 2023 when compared to the same period in 2022.
The Minister on Tuesday held the second National Tourism Safety Forum meeting in Cape Town with various stakeholders in the tourism sector.
De Lille said South Africa receives millions of tourists per year, and the vast majority of visitors return home without any issues and a memorable experience of the country.
The Africa region continues to bring the largest share of tourist arrivals to South Africa with more than three million arrivals from the rest of the African continent in the first six months of 2023.
“This is a testament to the marketing efforts that we have implemented to attract tourists from this region. Africa remains a key source market for us, and we are committed to collaborating as a tourism sector to make sure we welcome visitors from this region and that we cater for their needs and preferences.
Beyond the African continent, South Africa has welcomed more visitors from other regions too. The Asia region almost doubled its figures with a 99.5% growth compared to 2022.
“This year, Europe, the largest source of visitors outside Africa, also experienced solid growth of 66.8.1%, when compared to the same period in 2022. These robust figures showcase South Africa’s charm and attractiveness as well as the work that we are doing in marketing South Africa as a tourist destination of choice.”
North America, Central & South America, and the Middle East also demonstrated strong growth trends with rates of 70.6%, 74.4%, and 75.8% respectively.
“These robust figures showcase South Africa’s charm and attractiveness as well as the work that we are doing in marketing South Africa as a tourist destination of choice.”
Meanwhile, the department is gearing up for the summer season and will be launching the Summer Campaign in two weeks’ time in the Eastern Cape.
Safety
She said the previous meeting of the forum held in May saw all representatives agreed on clear actions to address tourism safety.
”While the latest statistics from StatsSA reveal an upward trend in tourist arrivals, issues of safety are an obstacle in converting would-be tourists to visit our country. As I said after the previous National Tourism Safety Forum meeting, crime is a matter which affects tourism in many parts of the world.”
This was echoed by several tourism ministers from all over the world.
“South Africa is no different and across the world, countries are grappling with these issues with instability and wars in some countries. While it is the mandate of the SAPS to keep our citizens and visitors safe, we all have a role to play.”
She said progress was made since the last meeting.
In a bid to ensure the safety of tourists in the country, the Department of Tourism will be deploying tourism monitors to all provinces at top tourist attractions and national parks.
The key responsibilities of the appointed tourism monitors include patrolling within the identified attractions and site/ areas, raising tourism awareness and provide information to tourists and report any crime incidents to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other relevant enforcement agencies.
The monitors will be deployed towards the end of October or early November 2023, in time for the summer tourist season.
The department has reviewed the training curriculum for tourism monitors with the departmental budget at R174.5 million, to train more than 2 200 tourism monitors across the country for this financial year.
The key responsibilities of the appointed Tourism Monitors include patrolling within the identified attractions and site/ areas, raising tourism awareness and provide information to tourists and report any crime incidents to SAPS and other relevant enforcement agencies.
Meanwhile, an update from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) on the C-More tracking device and how best this technology can be incorporated into the Secura app that has been set up by the Tourism Business Council of South Africa, was received.
“Through the use of technology, we are enhancing the tourist experience by offering technology and tourism monitors that assist tourists in various attractions as well as on-demand requests through an app.”
She said the app is now up and running and the operations centre will be launched in Sandton on Thursday.
“The Secura App is already being used by tourists and aims to enhance the visitor experience and assist in many ways including roadside assistance and directing those who are lost,” said the Minister. –SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 08/30/2023 - 10:11
The Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola (MP), has tabled the National Prosecuting Authority Amendment Bill in parliament after receiving approval from the cabinet on 14 August 2023. The bill was approved subject to a technical amendment on other ad hoc investigative directorates in the future, in line with the cabinet's direction.
President Ramaphosa's pronouncement in the State of the Nation Address will be realized once the parliament passes the amendment, making the Investigative Directorate Against Corruption a permanent feature of our anti-corruption law enforcement efforts. This move is aimed at ensuring the effective implementation of the recommendations of the State Capture Commission.
The Investigative Directorate Against Corruption investigates corruption-related crimes uncovered by the commission and the commissions of the South African Revenue Service and Public Investment Corporation.
Adopting a prosecution-led investigation model is the most effective way to prosecute crimes like corruption, as demonstrated by international best practices. This bill will allow the NPA to apply the experience gained from South Africa's efforts to tackle high-level corruption, said Lamola.
The bill is a significant step towards enhancing the NPA's independence and ability to prosecute high-level crimes. It creates a specialized entity within the NPA, staffed with trained individuals who enjoy the requisite level of independence, resources, and security of tenure to tackle corruption head-on.
Over the last four years, the Investigative Directorate against corruption has enrolled 34 matters, with 203 accused. During the 2022-23 financial year, it enrolled 18 new matters and authorized 13 new investigations, totalling 97 matters authorized over the previous four years. The Directorate has also contributed significantly to the recovery of R2.5 billion, which was paid into the Criminal Asset Recovery Account.
Overall, this bill is a crucial step in strengthening South Africa's anti-corruption efforts and ensuring that those who engage in corrupt practices are held accountable for their actions.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.
Mashatile holds fruitful discussion with South Sudan counterpart
Deputy President Paul Mashatile said he had a fruitful discussion on Tuesday with South Sudan’s First Vice President and leader of South Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in Opposition, Dr Riek Machar.
“I just completed a very fruitful discussion with Vice President, Dr Riek Machar, where we discussed a number of important issues that will allow South Sudan to move forward in the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS),” he said.
Machar received Deputy President Mashatile and his accompanying delegation yesterday.
The Deputy President is in South Sudan on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, as a Special Envoy to track the implementation of R-ARCSS and to assist in resolving the challenges that may hinder free and fair elections at the end of the transitional period.
The Deputy President noted some of the concerns raised by the Vice President, among others, the issues of refugees and the country’s permanent Constitution.
“We’ve agreed that we will look into the issues that they have raised. But a commitment to move forward to complete the peace process and have the election is agreed to… The Vice President is committed to ensuring that we achieve this within the timeframes that have been agreed upon, which is February 2025 to have the election.”
However, according to South Africa’s second-in-command, there is a need for the country to assist South Sudan in resolving some of those challenges.
“I will be meeting with the President to further discuss the issues. But, I’m very confident that with the kind of discussions we had, we will be able to resolve most of the issues and able to complete the peace process and have a successful and free and fair elections within the timeframe.”
Meanwhile, the Acting Press Secretary in the Office of the First Vice President, Puok Both Baluang, said the two leaders discussed bilateral relations, the progress and challenges facing the implementation of the revitalised agreement.
The leaders also touched on strengthening economic cooperation between the two sisterly countries.
“Dr Machar expressed that the meeting was a significant opportunity for both countries to enhance their friendship.
“He noted that South Sudan and South Africa share common values and principles, and he looks forward to the two nations’ relationship and collaboration growing.”
Baluang said Vice President Machar also briefed the visiting delegation on the progress and challenges of the R-ARCSS and the prerequisites for conducting free, fair and credible elections in South Sudan.
“He also assured them of his commitment to continue working for the full implementation of the agreement.”
The task of the Special Envoy is to help the parties to the Transitional Government of National Unity in South Sudan with the implementation of the R-ARCSS.
The power-sharing agreement was signed between the warring parties in August 2018 in a bid to end the five-year civil war.
The Deputy President of South Africa expressed gratitude and admiration on behalf of himself and his delegation for the warm welcome they received in South Sudan and for the cordial ties that exist between the two nations. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 08/30/2023 - 10:51
Minister calls for rethinking of stereotypes towards a gender-equal society
Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, says the rethinking of stereotypes and norms, and reshaping of the relationships between women and men, is a step in the right path towards a gender-equal society.
“Conventionally, issues about gender equality have often mainly been placed in the public arena by women. However, it is difficult to reform social structures towards equality without a broad social consensus and ownership between men and women,” Nzimande said on Tuesday.
Nzimande emphasised that men and boys must become active and positive advocates for gender equality, to rectify the discrepancy in power relations.
He said, with an increasing awareness of men and boys as a necessary part of the solution, there is an urgent need to chart a clear road ahead for their involvement as change agents for gender equality.
Nzimande made the remarks during Transforming MENtalities Summit, aimed at engaging men and boys to address the root causes of violence against women.
The Transforming MENtalities Summit is based on United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s (UNESCO) Transforming MENtalities initiative, launched in 2015 in Latin America and the Caribbean, to promote positive redefinitions of norms of masculinity and meaningful engagement of men and boys, alongside women and girls, in the global pursuit for gender equality.
The initiative was later spread to a number of other countries.
The objectives of Transforming MENtalities in South Africa are informed by UNESCO’s global initiative, which includes gathering context-nuanced and feminist evidence and building knowledge to inform gender-transformative policymaking; countering and uprooting harmful gender norms to promote positive and healthy alternatives with the support of role models; and strengthening the structures to engage men and boys as accountable allies for gender equality alongside women and people of diverse gender identities.
As “Transforming 'MEN'talities” postulates, Nzimande said, a holistic approach is essential in facilitating women’s empowerment, and ultimately the realisation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the objective of leaving no one behind.
Nzimande said, through engagement at the summit, the delegates have another opportunity to come up with sustained methods to engage and empower men and boys on existing societal norms of masculinities and challenge negative gender stereotypes and behaviours.
The Minister emphasised that Transforming MENtalities is about transforming the way men and boys build relations with women and girls, the liberation of men and boys from anachronistic and dominant positionalities.
“It is about men and boys unlearning reactionary habits and embracing emancipatory values, norms, roles and practices in the multiplicity of relationships they enjoy with women and girls. This relational perspective is important as it requires men and boys to an active part in co-creating new ways of relating to women and girls in private and public, domestic and professional, economic, social and political life.
“It means constructive and respectful dialogue, willingness to be vulnerable and open to embracing a new pathway, an ability to listen, learn and unlearn in multiple relational settings with women and girls. MENtalities is therefore a campaign to establish the cocreational responsibilities of men and boys in the struggle for gender equality,” Nzimamde said.
He also argued that the term MENtalities should not be an idealistic perspective of gender transformation that is, the notion that a “mere appeal to changing the mentality of men and boys will, by itself, liberate women from gender inequality and oppression”.
“This would be naïve. It is for this reason that we cannot delink this campaign from the wider struggles aimed at transforming the structural relations of power that define and reproduce gender inequality in society and economy.
“My view is that one can only provide a proper explanation of the roots of the psychosocial oppression of women and girls in the unequal distribution of economic and political power in society, and specifically, the capitalist economy – women are structurally located at the bottom of the economy – if measured by pay, investment income, land, fixed property,” the Minister said.
"Unless we root out the structural inequalities of capitalist gender exploitation and oppression, we will not provide the material bases upon which gender power relations can be reset in society at large and provide a foundation for the psycho-social and cultural emancipation of women and by definition men and boys in society."
He said the campaign to transforming the MENtalities of men and boys must also be fought in conjunction with the struggles to radically alter the structural position of women especially Black working-class women in the economy. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 08/30/2023 - 11:49
The world is currently facing one of the harshest economic climates experienced since the 2008 Global Financial Crisis, one of the worst financial crises in modern history. This raises concerns that more people may turn to fraud to address the financial pressure they are experiencing. “Rising inflation and the current war in Ukraine are two …