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Africa
PRASA prioritises full recovery of commuter rail services
PRASA prioritises full recovery of commuter rail services
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has reiterated that the full recovery of commuter rail services nationally is a top priority.
“Considerable progress has been made in restoring commuter services nationally, with 18 corridors recovered nationally, and 16 corridors prioritized for recovery in this financial year,” PRASA said on Friday.
Eight lines have been recovered in the Western Cape region, with six of these lines in operation with the new Electric Motor Units, otherwise known Isitimela Sabantu.
Trains are running on the Central, Southern and Northern corridors, stopping at 88 stations out of 121 stations in the province.
Five corridors in the Western Cape have been earmarked for recovery in this financial year - Nyanga to Philippi; Philippi to Chris Hani; and Philippi to Kapteinsklip; Bellville to Strand; and Cape Town to Muldersvlei.
“We are making steady progress in recovering these lines. PRASA’s interventions to restore and sustain urban passenger rail services aim to ensure that the return of passenger rail to the city is sustainable.
“The plans are part of PRASA's wider strategy to improve passenger rail services across South Africa and make rail a safe, reliable, and affordable mode of transport,” the agency said.
The plans to improve passenger train services for the City of Cape Town include:
- Increasing the number of trains running on the Cape Town rail network.
- Improving the frequency of trains, through the recovery of signalling.
- Upgrading of train stations.
- Building on the gains in the safety and security of passengers by investing in security and facilities management.
In line with its secondary mandate, PRASA has already contributed to the socio- economic fabric of the mother city with the new multi-use development at the Cape Town Station.
“Together with improvements in the train service, these activities will improve the quality of life for commuters in the city, create jobs, and boost the city’s economy.
“The number of reopened lines and those earmarked for reopening tells the story of solid progress in returning passenger rail to its rightful place as the backbone of public transport in the Western Cape.
“Residents of the city have welcomed the return of the services on several lines, including parts of the all-important Central Line. The recovery and rebuild programme is a priority that PRASA has shared with its stakeholders including parliamentary committees that we have been invited to,” the agency said.
PRASA expressed confidence that it will deliver on its plans given its turnaround momentum.
The latest StatsSA Land Transport survey shows continued strong demand for passenger rail transport.
According to the latest Stats SA Land Transport Survey, the year-on-year demand for passenger services, albeit from a low base, increased by 215% year-on-year.
“Our On-Time performance and Customer Satisfaction Index show gradual improvement. PRASA attends regular meetings at which developments that affect the delivery of train services in Cape Town are discussed.
“These meetings are in line with the provisions of the National Land Transport Act (NLTA) and are designed to keep the City and the Province informed of developments within PRASA. PRASA reiterates its plans and programmes to revitalize passenger train services in Cape Town at these meetings,” the agency said.
The Railway Steering Sub Committee meetings, which is a structure set up in terms of the National Land Transport Act (NLTA), provides a platform for regular updates on the state of the service.
PRASA, the City of Cape Town and Western Cape Departments of Infrastructure and Mobility are also members of an intergovernmental structure for relocating illegal occupants on the Central Line.
PRASA said it will continue to work closely with the City of Cape Town and the Provincial Government during the rebuild and recovery of its infrastructure and services.
“PRASA believes that the shared goal with the city of fully restoring the rail network and train services should remain the top priority between the two entities. Through the various intergovernmental structures and committees, we have full confidence in mutual cooperation and collaboration we share with the City of Cape Town and Western Cape Government for us to deliver on our promises to restore passenger rail services in the province,” PRASA said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 08/25/2023 - 10:47
48 views
Breaking Ground And Stereotypes: Female Visionary Triumphs With Acclaimed Organic Fresh Produce Business
In an industry where gender norms have long held sway, one exceptional woman has not only challenged conventions, but also sowed seeds that have yielded the fruits of success and prosperity. At the heart of the agricultural sector is the remarkable story of Gloria Ramahlodi, a visionary female entrepreneur who has thrived in the face …
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Continental Free Trade Area key for Africa’s growth
Continental Free Trade Area key for Africa’s growth
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is the engine for African economic and regional integration, President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Thursday.
The President said this during the China-Africa roundtable on the occasion of the State Visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The China-Africa Leaders’ Roundtable Dialogue co-chaired by Presidents Ramaphosa and Xi was held in an effort to further enhance and strengthen multilateral and international cooperation and partnership for the benefit of Africa’s development.
Both sides stressed the importance of the AfCFTA, having the potential to transform and positively impact upon all sectors of African economies once fully operationalised. The Chinese side committed to promote Africa’s regional economic integration by strengthening and integrating intra-Africa trade, promoting investment, facilitating the development of value chains, and boosting mutual capacity to produce and export value-added manufactured products.
President Ramaphosa said Thursday evening’s deliberations had been robust, giving all a sense of the challenges facing Africa and the opportunities for progress.
“The discussions highlight the importance of effective regional coordination to enhance and support continental integration,” President Ramaphosa said at the session held at the Hilton Hotel in Sandton, Johannesburg.
This as South Africa hosted the 15th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Summit as well as hosting President Xi who was on his fourth State Visit to South Africa.
President Xi also participated in the three-day summit which wrapped up on Thursday.
President Ramaphosa said that with the support of China and others, regional development and integration will support the diversification of Africa economies. He added that it will enable African countries to shift away from the export of raw materials to the export of high-quality manufactured goods and services.
“We conclude these deliberations with a clear understanding that the African Continental Free Trade Area is the engine for African economic and regional integration. We have discussed that investment in infrastructure in Africa will need to be significantly scaled up.”
The first citizen said sustained engagement with China as one of the principal supporters of strategic infrastructure development projects is critical.
In addition, obstacles in the way of regional integration such as inadequate financial resources, poor infrastructure networks, increasing violence, terrorism, political instability and others have been identified.
“At the same time, the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict have worsened public finances and increased the debt burden of many African countries. This has reduced infrastructure investment in Africa,” said President Ramaphosa.
BRICS Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogues
Meanwhile, the Chinese side expressed its full support for South Africa’s BRICS Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogues, which provides a platform for the African continent to play an even greater role in global governance and international affairs.
China expressed its strong support for the African Union (AU) to become a full member of the Group of 20 (G20) forum. The African side commends China for introducing the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative, in support of strengthening multilateralism and trusts that China and Africa’s development will bring more opportunities for peace and development in the world.
In a joint statement, the two sides agreed that since its inception in 2000, the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) has proved to be an effective platform for south-south cooperation, focused on achieving common prosperity and sustainable development of all the people of Africa and China.
“We have acknowledged the importance of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation as means of deepening collaboration in the cause of development.
"The adoption of our joint statement a few minutes ago will further solidify our resolve and commitment to enhancing China-Africa relations.”
The President added that it is now incumbent upon us all to translate these intentions into concrete regional actions that are time-bound and results orientated.
“We should use all necessary regional and continental tools, through our Regional Economic Communities and the African Union, to realise our commitment to an integrated, dynamic and prosperous Africa,” said President Ramaphosa. – SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 22:23
270 views
Deputy President Mashatile calls for unbiased global scheme
Deputy President Mashatile calls for fair global system
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called for the elimination of discriminatory trade barriers, policies and border adjustment measures against African countries and the countries of the global South.
Delivering the closing remarks at the 15th BRICS Summit on Thursday, he said the discriminatory elimination should also include punitive measures designed to reduce the competitiveness of countries of the global south and Africa.
“There must be equal opportunities for Africa and countries of the global south to access finance, supply chains, trade and investment opportunities. Africa and the global south must be fully represented in all management bodies, governing councils, institutions and structures.
“There should no longer be job reservations on the basis of one’s nationality. The world has changed and global governments must change. Let us act now and act together to ensure progress and prosperity for all nations and all peoples,” Mashatile said in Johannesburg.
He said BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India China, and South Africa) countries agreed on a fair global system and reform of multilateral institutions.
“We all agreed on a mutual beneficial relationship in our economic relations. We all agree on the need for our countries to be treated with respect in our international relations.
“Let us move forward united in our effort to address our common global challenges. The geo-political and economic shift-taking place across the world means that we must be intentional about how we move forward.
“We have always been clear that BRICS should champion the core interest of the global south, especially in overcoming economic, financial and political marginalisation,” the Deputy President said.
He said there is broad consensus on the need for reform of the architecture of global relations.
“Without that reform, the vision we set out will not be realized. We need to increase the representation of Africa and the south in all in all global structures.”
The three-day BRICS summit has wrapped up with successful outcome including the expansion of six countries to become full members of BRICS, effective from January 2024.
The Argentine Republic, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have been invited to become full members.
This year’s summit took place under the theme: "BRICS and Africa: Partnership for mutually accelerated growth, sustainable development and inclusive multilateralism.” – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 21:02
138 views
Special Discount On Opening Weekend Ticket Sales For 2024 Simola Hillclimb
Tickets now available online for 14th Simola Hillclimb in Knysna, which takes place from 2 to 5 May 2024 Discount on tickets purchased this weekend in celebration of the Simola Hillclimb Track Experience at Kyalami Upgrades available for Pit Access, Turn 2 Grandstand and VIP Parking – all available on simolahillclimb.com Le Mans Hospitality Lounge […]
Egypt appreciative of BRICS membership
Egypt appreciative of BRICS membership
Egypt, the new kid in the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) family has expressed appreciation in becoming a member of the family.
The 15th BRICS Summit held at the Sandton Convention Centre in South Africa under the leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa announced six new members of the BRICS bloc this morning.
In his remarks, Egypt Prime Minister Dr HE Mostafa Madbouly told delegates that his country will cooperate with the BRICS requirements.
“We welcome the step to be part of the BRICS family. We look forward to contributing to practical solutions,” Madbouly said on Thursday.
Madbouly said they are also looking forward to contributing positively in the areas such as food prices and developing agriculture.
“We look forward to participating positively and enhancing the role of the [New] Development Bank and supporting energy efficiency initiatives,” Madbouly said.
He said Egypt is also willing to support peaceful resolutions in the continent.
The other new members are Argentina, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates and are to become full members of BRICS with effect from 1 January 2024.
Egypt submitted in June 2023 a formal application to join the group following the ratification by the Egyptian leader Fattah al-Sisi of the country’s membership in BRICS’s New Development Bank (NDB).
Russia backed Egypt’s membership application to join the BRICS.
South Africa, as Chair of BRICS, hosted the XV BRICS Summit under the theme: BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development, and Inclusive Multilateralism.
In his remarks this morning, President Cyril Ramaphosa said as the BRICS family they value the interest of other countries in building a partnership with BRICS.
He said the admission of new members to the BRICS family is the first phase of the group’s expansion process.
“We have tasked our Foreign Ministers to further develop the BRICS partner country model and a list of prospective partner countries and report by the next Summit,” President Ramaphosa said.
South Africa’s participation in BRICS is premised on its national interests in line with the National Development Plan and the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF) 2019 – 2024 Priority 7.
During the summit which concludes today, BRICS leaders engaged with business during the BRICS Business Forum and engaged with the NDB, BRICS Business Council and other mechanisms during the Summit.
The BRICS partnership has grown in scope and depth with BRICS members exploring practical cooperation in a spirit of openness and solidarity to find mutual interests and common values. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 18:17
349 views
Expanded BRICS expected to acquire a firmer say on international agenda
Expanded BRICS expected to have a firmer say on international agenda
With its large footprint in combined population size and strong world Gross Domestic Product, the BRICS group of countries is expected to shape the international agenda in the coming years.
This assertion was made by the United Arab Emirates’ [UAE] His Highness (HH) Sheik Saud bin Saqr Mohammed Al Qasimi Member of the Federal Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.
He was speaking during the BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue held in Sandton on Thursday.
“The BRICS community, which represents a quarter of the world economy and home to half the population of the world, is prepared to play a pivotal role in shaping the international agenda and setting the international agenda in the coming years.
“We would like to take the opportunity to communicate with other groups and peoples within this group and outside this group in order to achieve prosperity at large, a space that includes all the people of this world,” the royal said.
Fresh off an official invitation to join the BRICS group, the leader expressed the UAE’s commitment to the vision of the group.
“We appreciate the position of the BRICS members to include the UAE into this group. In the recent years, the UAE has continued its surge to obtain membership in international organisations while committed to enhancing dialogue.
“Our approach is to follow cooperation in order to find solutions to the problems facing our world such as climate change, poverty, healthcare, education for the most vulnerable segments of our society,” he said.
The expansion of the group to now include the UAE, Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and Saudi Arabia greatly enhances its economic footprint as it now boasts six of the world’s top oil producers.
However, the royal said it will bring more than powerful oil connections to the table.
“It is most important to emphasise that the [UAE] is considered one of the [biggest] investment partners to the members of the BRICS group as the non-oil trade has reached 750 billion dollars and investment 38 billion dollars between the years 2018 and 2023.
“It is worth mentioning that the UAE is the second country that is not a founder to join the New Development Bank in 2020. This emphasises our very early understanding of the role that BRICS can play in enhancing international development and economic growth for all,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 18:42
132 views
Court dismisses expelled NUMSA official’s urgent application
“The fact that the applicant wants the matter heard urgently does not make it urgent” says judge
A Record 1,490 Fintechs entered the Ecobank Fintech Challenge 2023 with Eight (8) reaching the Final
Eight finalists emerged from an impressive pool of 1,490 Fintechs drawn from 64 countries in and beyond Africa; the Grand Finale will take place on 6 October at the Ecobank Group Pan African Centre (www.Ecobank.com) in Lomé, Togo; all finalists will be admitted into the Ecobank Fintech Fellowship Programme; the overall winner of the Ecobank Fintech Challenge will receive a cash prize of US$50,000, in addition to being admitted into the Fellowship Programme.
Over 1,400 Fintech startups from 64 countries across Africa and beyond applied for this year's Ecobank Fintech Challenge with eight of them making the cut to the final where they will compete for the ultimate prize. This is the sixth edition of this international competition, with the highest number of applications on record.
Ecobank Group, Africa's leading pan-African banking group, said this year's applications had more than doubled compared to last year's 703 applications received from 59 countries. In 2022 Nigeria's fintech startup, ‘Touch and Pay', wowed the jury with their ‘Cowry App' to win the top prize of US$50,000.
The eight finalists who emerged from the fiercely competitive pool will compete for the coveted top prize of US$50,000 at the Grand Finale, which is scheduled to take place at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Lomé, Togo, on 6 October 2023.
The 2023 Ecobank Fintech Challenge finalists in alphabetical order are:
- Flexpay Technologies (Kenya) – FlexPay offers customers a merchant-embedded saving-based purchase experience called Save Now, Buy Later.
- IPOXCap AI (South Africa) - FinanceGPT is a financial analysis platform for frontier markets. It processes structured and unstructured financial data to generate actionable insights, using advanced algorithms for financial forecasting, health monitoring and valuation.
- Kastelo (South Africa) - Provides a democratised solution through diversified products, focusing on transaction, savings and forex offerings, aimed at banking the underbanked in emerging markets through client-centric solutions.
- Koree (Cameroon) - Koree is a card wallet application that addresses sub-Saharan Francophone Africa spare change scarcity by digitising cash merchant payments, while empowering millions of African consumers through an incentive reward system.
- Kori Tech (Senegal) – Koripass is an E-wallet linked to physical payment accessories such as
bracelets, stickers and keychains. It enables quick and easy merchant payments
using NFC and QR Code technology. No internet or smartphone required. - Smart Teller Technologies Limited (Nigeria) - Empowering cooperative digital banking, IT services, and online bill payments for seamless services.
- Rubyx (Belgium and Senegal) - Rubyx enables digital lending solutions for service providers in emerging markets to bridge the financing gap that faces informal entrepreneurs and small businesses to fund their activities.
- Wolf Technologies (Democratic Republic of Congo) - Makuta is a state-of-the-art application that provides a simple, convenient and secure electronic money transfer and payment experience.
Ecobank Group Chief Executive Officer, Jeremy Awori, who will be hosting the Fintech Challenge final for the first time said: “We are encouraged by the very high number of applications received for the sixth edition of our Ecobank Fintech Challenge. The significant increase in the number of participants reflects the growing impact of our investments in the fintech space, and on our operations and fintech initiatives across Africa. The finalists went through a rigorous process, and we look forward to the pitches of the eight competitors vying for the top prize and ultimately partnering with the Ecobank Group.”
On his part, Dr. Tomisin Fashina, Ecobank Group Executive, Operations and Technology, congratulated the eight finalists of the 2023 Ecobank Fintech Challenge and said, “We are proud to support the development of fintechs to drive digital banking transformation across Africa and beyond. The ever-increasing level of participation - from just 412 applications in 2018 to 1,490 submissions this year - reflects the richness of the untapped innovation and talent that exists across our continent.”
As in previous editions, all the finalists in the 6th edition will be inducted into the Ecobank Fintech Fellowship Programme which offers:
- Product roll-out on a pan-African scale: Providing the opportunity to explore product and business integration with Ecobank and potentially launch products or services in all or part of Ecobank's 35-country pan-African ecosystem.
- Access to Ecobank's pan-African Banking Sandbox: Opportunity to test and develop products in the pan-African market.
- Priority access to Ecobank's venture capital partners: Opportunity for access to funding.
The Ecobank Fintech Challenge recognises and promotes groundbreaking African fintech start-ups. The initiative is consistent with Ecobank's Fintech strategy of building partnerships with African fintechs to help transform digital finance and banking.
The 2023 edition of the Ecobank Fintech Challenge is co-sponsored by Huawei, Arise Invest, Asky Airlines and Proparco, and supported by ALX Africa, , ABAN Angels, Africa Fintech Network, MEST Africa, Bluespace, Naija Startups, Jeune Afrique, TechCabal and Konfidants.
For more information on the competition, please visit https://EcobankFintechChallenge.com.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated.
Media Contact:
Christiane Bossom
Group Communications Manager
Ecobank Transnational Incorporated
Email: groupcorporatecomms@ecobank.com
Tel: +228 22 21 03 03
Website: www.Ecobank.com
About Ecobank Group (or ‘Ecobank Transnational Incorporated' or ‘ETI'):
Ecobank Group is the leading private pan-African banking group with unrivalled African expertise. Present in 35 sub-Saharan African countries, as well as France, the UK, UAE and China, its unique pan-African platform provides a single gateway for payments, cash management, trade and investment. The Group employs over 14,000 people and offers Consumer, Commercial, Corporate and Investment Banking products, services and solutions across multiple channels, including digital, to over 32 million customers. For further information, please visit Ecobank.com.
Security Council must reform – UN Secretary General
Security Council must reform - UN Secretary General
Continued exclusion of developing countries from holding permanent seats in the United Nations Security Council and under representation in world institutions, is a recipe for serious world fragmentation which could lead already existing tensions to boil over.
This is according to the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres who was addressing the media on the last day of the 15th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Summit held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.
“I believe, two areas require a particularly important reform effort. One is the Security Council; the second, the Bretton Woods system. If we are not able to reform our institutions to make sure they reassume a truly universal character, we risk fragmentation, and fragmentation can be one day, a factor of confrontation.
“[History] has shown time and again that multi-polarity without strong multilateral institutions is no guarantee for stability; it might even become a catalyst for chaos. We must urgently restore trust and reinvigorate multilateralism. This requires the courage to compromise for the common good,” Guterres said on Thursday.
The UN Security Council, considered one of the world body’s most powerful groups, is made up of 15 permanent and non-permanent members. The five permanent members are the United States of America, the United Kingdom, France, China and Russia.
Africa’s 54 states are represented on the council by three non-permanent seats currently held by Gabon, Ghana and Mozambique.
Driving home his point further, Guterres added that reforms in powerful global institutions require “a special focus on Africa”.
“The Security Council, the Bretton Woods system and other international organisations reflect the world of 1945 when many African countries were still part of European empires. To this day, the continent is under represented in the global financial architecture just as it lacks a permanent seat on the Security Council.
“The world has changed and so, global governments, must change with it. It must represent today’s power and economic relations and not the power and economic relations of 1945,” he said.
He further emphasised that these reforms must transverse institutions “at every level” and also bear greater inclusion of long marginalised groups such as women and youth.
“My message to the leaders assembled here was clear. Our world is in dire straits. We face existential challenges from the worsening climate emergency and escalating conflicts to the global cost of living crisis, soaring inequalities and dramatic technological disruptions. So this is the time to come together and work together,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 16:11
164 views
Mukuru appoints UFC Fighter Themba Gorimbo as Brand Ambassador
Mukuru (https://www.Mukuru.com), a leading next-generation financial services provider for Africa's emerging consumers, has appointed Zimbabwe-born MMA fighter Themba Gorimbo as its newest brand ambassador to highlight its commitment to supporting top African talent and making a difference in communities across the continent.
Like many youths in Africa, Gorimbo, now a successful welterweight UFC fighter hailing from a rural area called Muvuti in the Bikita District in Zimbabwe, had a rough start in life with the loss of both his parents at an early age. He made his way to South Africa and, while working as a gardener in Cape Town, he joined a local gym which was the start of setting him on a new trajectory.
“I believe God had a role to play in how my life thankfully changed for the better. You could almost say the tribulations of my past have played a big role in giving me the mental strength to achieve what I have so far,” says Gorimbo.
Gorimbo expresses his gratitude for the newfound chapter in his life, one that intertwines with a reputable organisation such as Mukuru. A business deeply rooted in serving its customers, Mukuru has partnered with Gorimbo on his journey of progress as he continues to positively contribute to the well-being of his community. He says that the partnership between him and Mukuru is nothing short of a blessing, as the company's unwavering support continues to provide him with the platform to fulfill his dreams of giving back to his community as he soldiers towards success.
Gorimbo joins rugby legend Tendai ‘Beast' Mtawarira and the Malawian soccer team, The Mighty Mukuru Wanderers, as ambassadors for the brand.
“The decision to partner with Themba as our brand ambassador for Mukuru was easy given that he is the epitome of what a Mukuru customer represents,” says Cindy Klassen, Head of Marketing at Mukuru. Our customers are resilient, they too have journeyed from their homes, some under tough situations, others in search of greater opportunity, but all with the same belief that they will be paving the way for future generations to be beacons of hope and models of success. Gorimbo often says he will become a champion, but to us and the people of Africa, he is one already.”
Gorimbo installed a borehole in his village from the proceeds he received selling his fight kit after his first UFC victory in Las Vegas earlier this year. “As part of the brand partnership, we wanted to match Gorimbo's magnanimous energy, because as a brand we too invest in the communities that we serve, so we partnered with him and donated another borehole to provide clean water and support his community in Bikita District,” says Klassen.
We look forward to collaborating on various brand campaigns in the coming months and hopefully inspire and support more people across Africa in the same way Gorimbo and our customers inspire us,” concludes Klassen.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mukuru.
About Mukuru:
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 13 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 50 countries and across over 300 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 fourth consecutive year, been listed as one of the top 100 Cross Border Payments businesses in the world in the 2023 FXC Intelligence Top 100 Cross-Border Payment Companies (https://apo-opa.info/3KW0wwh), one of only six African companies to receive this accolade.
In April 2023, Mukuru officially ranked sixth on the 2023 LinkedIn Top Companies List in South Africa.
Further information can be found at https://www.Mukuru.com.
Do SEO Services Really Work?
Introduction In today’s digital age, where the majority of consumers turn to the internet to find products, services, and information, the importance of search engine optimisation (SEO) cannot be overstated. With countless websites vying for the top spot on search engine results pages, many businesses are left wondering: Do SEO services genuinely make a difference? …
BRICS partnership is a catalyst for global growth
BRICS partnership is a catalyst for global growth
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the BRICS partnership is a catalyst for global growth and development that responds to the needs of all nations.
“It is the right of Africa and the entire Global South to fully reap the benefits of global trade and investment. Without trade and investment our economies cannot thrive and our peoples’ material conditions cannot improve,” Ramaphosa said.
Ramaphosa was speaking at the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue, held on the last day of the 15th BRICS Summit on Thursday.
“As the African continent we are determined that the continent’s substantial resources are harnessed for the benefit and development of Africa’s people. The African Continental Free Trade Area, once fully operational, will unlock the benefits of the continental market and generate substantial opportunities for African and other countries,” he said.
To make use of these opportunities, Africa is looking to the BRICS partnership to unlock infrastructure and development financing, noting this was part of the founding vision of the New Development Bank.
He said the Bank is playing a leading role in efforts to increase the resilience of the global South, and to bring fairness to global trading and financial systems by strengthening the use of BRICS currencies.
“We have to reform global economic, financial and political governance, including the multilateral trading system, so that we create a conducive environment for fair trade.”
While many countries of the global South are seeing significant progress in industrialisation, technological development, innovation and the digital economy, they are not fully reaping the economic benefits.
“By working together, by sharing skills and capabilities, by mobilising resources, we will be able to give renewed impetus to global growth and sustainable development. We need to move beyond expressions of solidarity towards inclusion and mutually-beneficial economic cooperation,” President Ramaphosa said.
Call for special attention to global South concerns
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi commended President Ramaphosa for hosting a success summit, noting the summit has given them the opportunity to share views with countries of Africa, Asia and Latin America.
Modi said that in discussions over the last two days, members have emphasised the priorities and concerns of countries in the global South.
“We believe that by calling special attention to these issues by BRICS, is a need of these current times. .. And we welcome all the new member countries [and] this will make global institutions and forums more representative and inclusive, a step towards such efforts of ours.
“When we use the term global South, it is not just a new diplomatic term. In our shared history we have together faced colonialism, [and] it was in this land of Africa that Mahatma Gandhi developed a powerful concept of non-violence and peaceful resistance, tested here and then used them in India’s struggle for freedom. His thinking and ideas inspired great leaders like Nelson Mandela,” Modi said.
Republic of Brazil President, Lula da Silva, said he was very impressed with the maturity of the BRICS Summit, and the results they managed to reach.
“The GDP [gross domestic product] of the BRICS is growing up to 37% of the GDP in terms of the purchasing power and 46% in terms of the world population,” da Silva said.
He also commended the team from the Foreign Affairs Ministers for the extraordinary work they did to conduct the declaration of Johannesburg which was signed on Thursday, adding that BRICS will continue to open to new members and also approve criteria procedures for future members.
Rebuilding of a new multi-polar world order
Russian President, Vladimir Putin also commended South Africa for the efforts made during their joint work.
Putin said BRICS stand for rebuilding of a new multi-polar world order, one that is “truly balanced and takes interest in as many nations as possible.”
He said Russia will always remain a reliable food supplier and continue to support countries who are most in need.
“We will promote the overcoming of all ways of inequality that exists in the world, and BRICS will continue to be the driving force of the new international order," Putin said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 13:39
250 views
Rich countries urged to honour $100-billion climate finance goal
Rich countries urged to honour $100-billion climate finance goal
United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, António Guterres, has urged developed countries to keep their promises to developing nations by meeting the climate finance commitment of US$100 billion.
This is after rich nations made a pledge in 2009 to the less wealthy countries at a UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark, to assist them in adapting to climate change and alleviate rises in temperature by 2020.
Guterres also called on the wealthy nations to double adaptation finance, replenish the Green Climate Fund, and operationalise the loss and damage fund this year.
“As a matter of justice, Africa must be considered a priority in all these efforts,” he stressed.
He delivered the remarks at the BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue, which was held during the 15th BRICS Summit at the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg.
Guterres said the climate crisis was spiralling out of control and urged world leaders to step up their efforts to tackle it.
“I have put forward a Climate Solidarity Pact in which developed countries provide financial and technical support to help emerging economies – in Africa and beyond – to promote an equitable and just transition to renewable energy.”
He told delegates that he presented an Acceleration Agenda, which aims to see developed countries committing to reach net zero by 2040 and developing nations as close as possible to 2050.
The Secretary-General also touched on the crisis of cost of living.
He stated that poverty, hunger, and inequalities are growing against the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development’s objectives.
“Geopolitical divides and conflicts are multiplying with profound global implications, especially the impacts from the Russian invasion of Ukraine.”
Multipolar world
While nations were eyeing a multipolar world, he said multipolarity was not enough to guarantee a peaceful or global community.
“To be a factor of peace, equity, and justice in international relations, multipolarity must be supported by strong and effective multilateral institutions.”
Guterres is advocating for a strengthened and reformed multilateral architecture based on the UN Charter and international law.
“Today’s global governance structures reflect yesterday’s world. They were largely created in the aftermath of World War II when many African countries were still ruled by colonial powers and were not even at the table.
“This is particularly true of the Security Council of the United Nations and the Bretton Woods institutions.”
For multilateral institutions to remain universal, he said they must reform to reflect today’s power and economic realities.
“In the absence of such reform –– fragmentation is inevitable.”
Cooperation
Guterres said the world cannot afford a divided global economy and financial system, diverging strategies on technology, and conflicting security frameworks.
“The IMF [International Monetary Fund] estimates that such a fracture could cost 7% of global GDP [gross domestic product] – a cost that would be disproportionately borne by low-income countries, mainly in Africa.
“And so I have come to Johannesburg with a simple message, in a fracturing world with overwhelming crises, there is simply no alternative to cooperation.”
He advised leaders to urgently restore trust and reinvigorate multilateralism for the 21st century.
“This requires the courage to compromise in the reforms necessary for the common good.
“It requires full respect for the UN Charter, international law, universal values, and all human rights – social, cultural, economic, civil, and political. And it requires much greater solidarity,” he stressed, admitting that none of this was easy.
“But it is essential. And is essential, especially for Africa.”
He acknowledged that Africa, a historical victim of slavery and colonialism, continues to confront grave injustices.
“On average, African countries pay four times more for borrowing than the United States and eight times more than the wealthiest European countries.”
Guterres also noted that African states account for just 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, but are an epicentre of climate chaos.
“Looking ahead, I see two priorities for action and justice. First, on the economic front. Redesigning today’s outdated, dysfunctional, and unfair global financial architecture is necessary, but I know it won’t happen overnight. Yet we can – and must – take practical action now.”
He has since proposed an effective debt workout mechanism, and other steps necessary to multiply the resources available for developing countries are vital for sustainable development in Africa and its people. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 13:42
109 views
BRICS adopts Johannesburg II Declaration
BRICS adopts Johannesburg II Declaration
The 15th BRICS Summit has successfully adopted the Johannesburg II Declaration, a document that encapsulates significant BRICS viewpoints on matters of global economic, financial and political significance.
This was announced by the Chair of BRICS President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday during a media briefing to announce the outcomes of the XV BRICS Summit.
“We adopted the Johannesburg II Declaration which reflects key BRICS messages on matters of global economic, financial and political importance. It demonstrates the shared values and common interests that underlie our mutually beneficial cooperation as the five BRICS countries.
“BRICS itself is a diverse group of nations. It is an equal partnership of countries that have differing views but have a shared vision for a better world,” the President said.
The leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa met in Sandton, Johannesburg, from 22 to 24 August 2023 for the XV BRICS Summit.
The Summit was held under the theme: "BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism".
This is the first BRICS Summit to be hosted in-person since the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent global travel restrictions.
The BRICS leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to the BRICS spirit of mutual respect and understanding, sovereign equality, solidarity, democracy, openness, inclusiveness, strengthened collaboration and consensus.
As the bloc builds upon 15 years of BRICS Summits, it further committed to strengthening the framework of mutually beneficial BRICS cooperation under the three pillars of political and security, economic and financial, and cultural and people-to-people cooperation.
Partnership for Inclusive Multilateralism
The bloc has also committed to enhance its strategic partnership for the benefit of its people through the promotion of peace, a more representative, fairer international order, a reinvigorated and reformed multilateral system, sustainable development and inclusive growth.
“We reiterate our commitment to inclusive multilateralism and upholding international law, including the purposes and principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations (UN) as its indispensable cornerstone,” President Ramaphosa said.
The BRICS leaders expressed their concern about the use of unilateral coercive measures, which are incompatible with the principles of the Charter of the UN and produce negative effects notably in the developing world.
“We reiterate our commitment to enhancing and improving global governance by promoting a more agile, effective, efficient, representative, democratic and accountable international and multilateral system.
“We call for greater representation of emerging markets and developing countries, in international organizations and multilateral fora in which they play an important role. We also call for increasing the role and share of women from EMDCs at different levels of responsibilities in the international organizations,” the Declaration read.
Local currencies
The BRICS leaders emphasised that they are ready to explore opportunities for improving the stability, reliability and fairness of the global financial architecture.
In the declaration, the leaders said they recognise the widespread benefits of fast, inexpensive, transparent, safe, and inclusive payment systems.
Therefore the Summit agreed to task the BRICS Finance Ministers and/or Central Bank Governors, as appropriate, to consider the issue of local currencies, payment instruments and platforms and report back to the BRICS leaders by the next Summit.
“We look forward to the report by the BRICS Payment Task Force (BPTF) on the mapping of the various elements of the G20 Roadmap on Crossborder Payments in BRICS countries. We welcome the sharing of experience by BRICS members on payment infrastructures, including the interlinking of cross-border payment systems.
“We also encourage strengthening of correspondent banking networks between the BRICS countries and enabling settlements in the local currencies. We task our Finance Ministers and/or Central Bank Governors, as appropriate, to consider the issue of local currencies, payment instruments and platforms,” the leaders said.
New Development Bank (NDB)
The summit further recognised the key role of the New Development Bank (NDB) in promoting infrastructure and sustainable development of its member countries.
The Summit congratulated Dilma Rousseff, former President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, as President of the New Development Bank (NDB) and are confident that she will contribute to the strengthening of the NDB in effectively achieving its mandate.
“We expect the NDB to provide and maintain the most effective financing solutions for sustainable development, a steady process in membership expansion, and improvements in corporate governance and operational effectiveness towards the fulfilment of NDB's General Strategy for 2022-2026,” the leaders said.
The leaders further welcomed the work of the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance in their first in-person engagement with leaders, particularly welcoming the participation of youth representatives in the Summit.
They further addressed expectations for the BRICS economic partnership to generate tangible benefits for communities and deliver viable solutions for common challenges faced by the global South.
The Summit further reaffirmed the importance of BRICS people-to-people exchanges in enhancing mutual understanding, friendship and cooperation.
Brazil, Russia, India and China commend South Africa's BRICS Chairship in 2023 and expressed their gratitude to the government and people of South Africa for holding the XV BRICS Summit.
The bloc further extended its full support to Russia for its BRICS Chairship in 2024 and the holding of the XVI BRICS Summit in the city of Kazan, Russia. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 12:39
262 views
BRICS Heads of State welcome ‘historic’ bloc expansion
BRICS Heads of State welcome 'historic' bloc expansion
The Heads of State of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) have welcomed the historic expansion of the bloc to include six new developing countries.
President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Thursday that Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates will join BRICS as of the start of 2024.
This is after over 20 countries formally applied to join BRICS and several others have expressed an interest in becoming part of the bloc.
“As the five BRICS countries, we have reached an agreement on the guiding principles, standards, criteria and procedures of the BRICS expansion process, which has been under discussion for quite a while. We have consensus on the first phase of this expansion process, and further phases will follow,” President Ramaphosa, who is also Chair of BRICS, announced.
The BRICS Summit is underway at the Sandton Convention Centre led by bloc leaders of emerging economies – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.
The Heads of State took to the podium on Thursday to talk about the outcomes of the 15th BRICS Summit held in Sandton, Johannesburg, this week and welcomed the new members.
India Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was pleased that the summit had many positive outcomes.
“On the 15th anniversary of BRICS, we have taken an important decision to expand it,” he said, adding that India has always supported the expansion of the bloc’s membership.
India, the Prime Minister said, has always been of the view that the addition of new members will further strengthen the organisation and will bring a new stimulus.
“This will also strengthen the belief of many countries of the world in a multi-polar world order.”
He expressed his satisfaction that the team agreed on the guiding principles, standards, criteria and procedure of the expansion.
Prime Minister Modi has since conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to the leaders and people of the six new nations.
“I am confident that together with these countries, we will be able to infuse new momentum and energy into our cooperation.
“India has had very deep and historic relations with all of these countries, with the help of BRICS, new dimensions will be added to our bilateral cooperation.”
He also had a message to the countries who have also expressed interest and said India will contribute towards building a consensus for them to be a part of BRICS countries.
“The expansion and modernisation of BRICS is a message that all institutions in the world need to hold themselves according to changing times.
“This can be an example for reforms and other global institutions that were established in the 20th century,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping described the BRICS countries as nations with influence and shoulder important responsibility for world peace and development.
“During the summit, we’ve reached broad consensus, adopted a declaration and achieved fruitful outcomes.”
He said the Heads of State have unanimously agreed to invite the other countries as official members.
“China congratulates these states and highly appreciates the efforts made by our chair South Africa and President Ramaphosa.”
He described the expansion as historic and said it shows the determination of BRICS countries for unity and cooperation with the broader developing countries.
“The expansion is also a new starting point for BRICS cooperation.”
President Xi believes it will also bring new vigour to the BRICS cooperation mechanism and further strengthen the force for world peace and development.
“I’m confident that as long as we work with a common purpose there’s a lot that BRICS cooperation can achieve and the future will be bright for BRICS countries.”
“Let’s work together to write a new chapter of emerging market countries and developing countries working together in unity for development.”
Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva also welcomed the new members.
Da Silva noted the BRICS’ Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will now shoot up to 37% of the world’s GDP in terms of purchasing power and 47% of the global population.
“BRICS will continue to be open to new members,” he added.
Russian President Vladimir Putin also welcomed the new members.
“Let me assure all the colleagues that we will keep up with the work we have launched to expand BRICS influence in the world.”
He said the BRICS Heads of State will proceed with the smooth work they have done and look at ways to best coordinate the expansion. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 11:57
79 views
BRICS: Six current countries join the bloc
BRICS: Six new countries join the bloc
The much-anticipated expansion of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) bloc has gained momentum with the current members having collectively decided to extend invitations to six countries to become full members, effective from January 2024.
“As the five BRICS countries, we have reached agreement on the guiding principles, standards, criteria and procedures of the BRICS expansion process, which has been under discussion for quite a while. We have consensus on the first phase of this expansion process, and further phases will follow.
“We have decided to invite the Argentine Republic, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to become full members of BRICS. The membership will take effect from 1 January 2024,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said this in his capacity as Chair of BRICS and President of the Republic of South Africa during a media briefing to announce the outcomes of the XV BRICS Summit held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg on Thursday.
The debate over the expansion of BRICS topped the agenda at the three-day summit where the leaders of the emerging economies held meetings.
This announcement is expected to propel the group towards increased global influence in world relations as it already represents more than 40% of the world’s population (at least 3 billion people) and some 31% of the global GDP.
President Ramaphosa expressed that the bloc values the interest of other countries in building a partnership with BRICS.
He also announced that the leaders have tasked their respective Foreign Ministers to further develop the BRICS partner country model and a list of prospective partner countries and report by the next Summit.
BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue
The Heads of State will later today host leaders from Africa and the Global South in the BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue.
President Ramaphosa said this is aimed at having an inclusive dialogue on key issues affecting developing economies.
“This is so that we can have an inclusive dialogue on key issues affecting developing economies and identify actions that we can take together towards a more equitable, inclusive and representative world,” he said.
The President concluded by thanking the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India and China, together with their delegations, for participating in the “most successful” 15th BRICS Summit.
Through this Summit, he said, BRICS has embarked on a new chapter in its effort to build a world that is fair; a world that is just; a world that is also inclusive and prosperous. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 10:53
194 views
The troubled history of Mangaung prison
The high-security prison is in the spotlight again after the suicide of an inmate this week
Climate activists demand action at BRICS talks
Hundreds protest in Sandton where summit is underway