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Unplanned power outages plague residents and small businesses near Cape Point
President mourns the passing of former Minister Pravin Gordhan
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sadness over the passing of lifelong activist and former Minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan.
Gordhan passed away in hospital in the early hours of Friday morning after a battle with cancer, his family announced. He was 75 years old.
President Ramaphosa has offered his deep condolences to Gordhan’s wife Vanitha Raju, daughters Anisha and Priyesha, the former Minister’s older brother Manecklal, and sister Shanta Harilal.
He said his thoughts were also with Gordhan’s extended family, comrades, associates and organisations he established relationships with, as a family and community member, freedom fighter, public sector executive and member of the National Executive.
Gordhan served as Minister of Finance from 2009 until 2014 and 2015 until 2017.
He also served as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs from 2014 to 2015, and as Minister of Public Enterprises from February 2018 until he announced his planned retirement in March 2024.
The late activist was also appointed as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) in 1999, after a period as Deputy Commissioner.
His involvement in the public sector stemmed from his participation in the anti-apartheid struggle.
This included his role in student and civic movements in the 1970s and 80s, as an executive member of the Natal Indian Congress, and as a military operative in the armed wing of the African National Congress (ANC).
During South Africa’s transition to democracy and in the early years of the new dispensation, Gordhan played a leading role in the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA) multi-party dialogue. He was later appointed as Chairperson of the Parliamentary Constitutional Committee.
Last year marked 50 years since Gordhan graduated from the University of Durban-Westville with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree. This led to him working at the King Edward VIII Hospital in Durban from 1974 to 1981.
In the early 1980s, his activism led to his dismissal from the hospital, as well as detention by police and banning orders.
President Ramaphosa said: “We have lost an outstanding leader whose unassuming persona belied the depth of intellect, integrity and energy with which he undertook his activism, his duty as a parliamentarian and his roles as a member of Cabinet.
“Pravin Gordhan’s personal sacrifices and his endeavours and achievements in various sectors of our society endowed him with the insights, empathy and resilience that fuelled his service to the nation.”
President Ramaphosa commended him for his role as a leader in the country’s anti-corruption efforts during his later years of service to the nation.
“Gordhan stood up to derision and threats emanating from some in our nation who were scorched by his insistence that justice be dispensed against those who sought to undermine our democracy and raid our public resources and assets.
“During his decades of revolutionary dedication to making South Africa a better place, Pravin Gordhan and his family were deprived of much-needed and deserved time together.
“As we mourn his passing, we remain grateful for his life of sacrifice and service and his sustained striving for the realisation of the vision and dictates of our Constitution.
“We carry his family in our thoughts and prayers at this time.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 09:40
KIMBERLEY: Oshada Fernando played a second crucial innings of the match to help Sri Lanka A (SL ‘A’) overcome South Africa...
One law firm submitted claims of nearly R500-million against the Eastern Cape health department
Nuclear build will follow the science - Ramokgopa
The South African government will pursue a new nuclear build that is led by scientific evidence.
This is according to the Minister of Energy and Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, who addressed the Nuclear Seminar hosted by the Ministry on Thursday.
“We are going to be evidence led in terms of our policy choices. The beauty about evidence and science is that it removes emotion. It’s important that those who can bring the political dimension, bring it to the fore [and] marry it with the science and we find solutions.
“We have a duty to ensure that as many people as possible or those who have an interest must understand what the science [of nuclear] is so that we are able to dispel these myths [about nuclear], we are able to undermine and push back against those who have no clue about the conversation we are having today,” he said.
Ramokgopa insisted that the withdrawal of the ministerial determination for government’s planned procurement of at least 2 500MW was to protect the process from legal challenges.
“We made the point that we have nothing to hide. So if there are complexities or the process of the 2 500MW build programme is compromised…we have a duty to pull it back, to clean it so that you don’t conflate the science and the process.
“Then on the basis of the science we’ll be able to make a compelling story to the South African people. [We want to] clean the process, make it as democratic as possible. Those who have objections, raise those objections on the basis of the science because the process would have allowed you an opportunity to do exactly that,” he said.
The Minister noted that the global move towards the use of nuclear energy is a “return to realism”.
“We will converge on the science that this is the path that must be pursued for us to be able to achieve energy security to ensure that we are able to green the sources of energy generation.
“Nucelar is part of the energy mix…it’s part of the future. It’s indispensable to the resolution of an attainment of energy sovereignty in this country. We will answer the question of at what scale, what pace that will not undermine the issues of affordability and not compromise the fiscus. I am more than confident that nuclear has got a place, has a got a role,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 09/12/2024 - 12:30
Framework to revitalise Eastern Cape agriculture sector
Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC, Nonceba Kontsiwe, says the province has adopted the Agriculture Investment Framework to revitalise the agriculture sector.
Commenting on the commercialisation of Eastern Cape’s agriculture, Kontsiwe noted that despite having the highest livestock population, the province only contributes 8% to the country's livestock Gross Domestic Product.
There are over 10 000 hectares of irrigable land with water rights in irrigation schemes that have the potential to produce dairy, vegetables, fruits, grains, and fodder.
“However, this land is not fully utilised, and optimising its use could greatly enhance sector performance in terms of growth and employment,” Kontsiwe said.
She said commercial farmers constitute 9% of the farming population, generating 71% of the income and employing 60% of the agricultural labour force, significantly driving the agricultural sector's performance.
On the other hand, she said, smallholder producers, representing 91% of the farming population, generate 29% of the income and provide 40% of the jobs.
“The growth of smallholder farmers is impeded by high barriers to entry, including high fixed costs (land, equipment, and operations), inadequate on and off-farm infrastructure, limited funding options tailored to their needs, rising input costs, and poor logistics.
“The challenge is how to effectively commercialise land owned by Black farmers to enhance the economic performance of the agricultural sector to build industries for inclusive growth,” the MEC said.
Policy
Kontsiwe said government has approved a progressive State Land Lease and Disposal Policy, aimed at releasing land to land reform beneficiaries to attract investment, improve productivity, and enhance competitiveness on their farms.
She reported that out of all the farms distributed in the Eastern Cape, 100 were classified as commercially viable in various agricultural sectors.
These include citrus in Amathole and Sarah Baartman; deciduous in Sarah Baartman; wool and beef across the province; and grain in OR Tambo, Alfred Nzo, Joe Gqabi, Chris Hani, and Amathole.
The department’s strategy for commercialising 100 farms involves repurposing the Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency (ECRDA) to serve as a trade and business aggregator for various commodities.
“The ECRDA will be empowered to enter into 10-year commercial agreements with all 100 farms to provide holistic support to them and provide them with offtake contracts to supply their produce to ECRDA processors, which are planned to be located in RED Hubs and industrial parks such as Queens Industrial, Butterworth Industrial Park, Fort Jackson, and Dimbaza.
“These processors will process primary produce into food and feed products for domestic markets. For export-oriented products, the ECRDA, supported by the ECDC, will aggregate produce from these farms and explore trade opportunities in African, Chinese, and Middle Eastern markets,” Kontsiwe explained.
The MEC added that the department will partner with other sector departments to facilitate private sector investment by securing water rights for irrigation, obtaining environmental authorisation, acquiring title deeds, or securing long-term land use rights.
The department will also work towards consolidating and coordinating government investments towards land reform farms.
The targeted departments include Agriculture; Land Reform and Rural Development; Forestry, Fisheries and Environment; Water and Sanitation and Economic Development, Environment Affairs and Tourism.
“The department will collaborate with the Regional Land Claims Commission to secure Land Development Grants for 38 properties in land claims settlements [and] this will benefit communities in areas like Ncora, Magwa, Dwesa-Cwebe, Mkhambathi, and more.
“The department will develop an infrastructure business plan to access funding and unlock R220 million from the Land Development Grant,” Kontsiwe said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 09/12/2024 - 14:19
Police to intensify operations to root out crime
The police will intensify compliance inspections at all police stations and service points in a bid to continuously improve service offering to communities, said the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola.
“Our responsibility as a police service is to keep all people living in South Africa safe and as the South African Police Service we will continue to act without fear, favour and prejudice to realise this vision,” said Masemola.
The Commissioner addressed the media in Johannesburg on Thursday.
“The SAPS remains at the coalface of the criminal justice system, and it is upon our members to ensure that the work that they do continues to inspire confidence in the system,” he said, adding that the police’s ongoing operations are yielding the desired results.
This as the police is continuously implementing an “all hands-on deck approach” that leaves no one behind.
“It is a joint effort working closely with other law enforcement agencies, other government departments, the business sector, our community police forum structures and private security.
“At the heart of it all, lies our communities. Through community participation and through the tip-offs that we continue to receive, criminals are feeling the heat. There is no longer much room and space for criminals in all provinces including KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Western Cape and [the] Eastern Cape to operate because that space has been squeezed,” Masemola said.
According to the Commissioner, ongoing takedowns and the arrests of wanted suspects is sending a firm and stern warning to all criminals that police are hitting the ground running and that the men and women in blue will continue to sniff out criminals.
“We do believe that we are registering progress in destabilising the work of organised crime syndicates as well as ruthless criminals in all forms and shape.
“Since our last briefing four weeks ago, 85 000 more suspects have been arrested for various crimes ranging from murder to rape, kidnapping and extortion. This brings the total number of suspects arrested since the launch of Operation Shanela to 850 375.
“During this period, 824 illegal and unlicensed firearms with more than 17 282 rounds of ammunition [were] seized,” the Commissioner said.
Extortions
Regarding extortions, the SAPS is working hard to bring an end to extortion related crimes.
He added that communities should report these crimes to police.
“We have developed an Extortion Action Plan and thus far, we are pleased with the manner in which this plan is being implemented throughout the country. As management, we are particularly encouraged with how our police officers are addressing the crime of extortion across all provinces that have been identified as hotspots.
“We are following up on tip-offs and information shared through our hotlines and crime stop number. We are fetching each of these extortionists, one by one,” he said.
In the past two weeks, 14 extortionists were shot and killed during confrontation with police in various provinces.
The most brazen of these alleged extortionists were in the Eastern Cape in Mthatha where three followed and tailed the National Intervention Unit (NIU) members to their base.
“Our members had been conducting stop and searches in Mthatha during tracing operations and had earlier confiscated firearms from these alleged extortionists. These extortionists indeed got what they were looking for. They shot at our police officers who were ready to defend and assert the authority of the state.”
READ | SAPS to 'deal decisively' with extortionists
Masemola said the crime of extortion requires a specialised investigative capacity and that is why police have deployed specialist teams led by the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigations (DPCI), crime intelligence and organised crime units to lead these investigations. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 09/12/2024 - 15:11
Expert panel to advise on new nuclear build
An expert panel is expected to be convened to advise Energy and Electricity Minister Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa on government’s planned procurement of some 2 500MW of nuclear energy to the grid.
The Minister revealed this during a media briefing on the sidelines of the Nuclear Seminar held in Gauteng on Thursday.
“We’re putting together an expert team that will advise me in relation to the pace and scale that we can afford. Once we answer that question then we will be able to articulate on the public consultation process, what the timelines are and then simultaneously we’ll begin to work out a procurement framework.
“It is the procurement framework that we will then take to Cabinet to seek an in principle approval of the framework. The actual execution of that procurement will be discharged through an avenue that we will announce,” he said.
The Minister emphasised that as it takes care of its people, government has a right to choose which sources of energy it taps into.
“As a country we reserve the right to determine what are those technologies and fuel sources that we are going to use. That is a sovereign right. We do accept that in the energy complex that are opposed to this or that technology.
“To the extent that we can justify and illustrate that it’s in the interest of the sovereign, we will pursue that,” he said.
The Minister emphasised that the department is open to having frank conversations about the sources of energy powering the country.
“The conversations are democratic, they are open. We are going to discuss all technologies, all fuel sources because all of them are needed to help us…on the energy side. But also to ensure that we achieve conditions of energy sovereignty and also we pursue other peaceful uses outside of powering the South African economy.
“Nothing is off the table as far as this Ministry is concerned. We are going to discuss everything and pursue these opportunities that we have identified in the interest of the country,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 09/12/2024 - 15:19
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Sector master plans critical to investment, boosting exports, creating jobs
By Edwin Tshivhidzo
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau has consistently emphasised the need to accelerate the implementation of the sector master plans as one of the key priorities of the seventh administration.
Since his appointment two months ago, the Minister has reiterated the critical role of the master plans in increasing investment, boosting exports, creating jobs, promoting localisation and facilitating transformation.
One of the interventions initiated by partnerships in the Retail–Clothing Textile Footwear Leather Master Plan, where more than 20 000 jobs have been created as a result of its roll-out, is the redesigned Clothing Textile Footwear Leather Growth Programme (CTFLGP), which was launched in 2022.
Import substitution, creation of new jobs, transformation and competitiveness improvement are the main objectives of the programme.
One of the beneficiaries of the programme that is being implemented by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) through the Industrial Development Corporation, is R and L Apparel. It is a woman-owned company based in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal.
The company received financial support for the purchase of equipment and machinery, as well as for initial working capital, in order to grow their Cut, Make, Trim (CMT) manufacturing capacity.
Managing Director of R and L Apparel, Solis Benjie Dolores, said the support from government has enabled the company to increase its production, improve product quality, create jobs and extend its clientele, which now includes The Foschini Group, which they supply through Celtico, one of the CMT suppliers in the Newcastle clothing industry.
“The funding assisted us greatly in creating additional jobs. We had only 17 workers when we applied for the programme. As of August 2024, we were able to reach a staff complement of 103 employees, 98 of whom are women. As a matter of fact, we are looking forward to achieving the additional 150 jobs that we have committed to,” Dolores said.
“The CTFLGP is a great initiative. The programme opened new doors for our company's growth. Without the funding, we might have just stayed on 17 workers, because our machinery and working capital were very limited.
“Before we received the funding, we were running a hand-to-mouth operation that was kept going only by the dedication and endeavours of our team. Now the company is on a positive growth trajectory,” she said.
Dolores said the company is planning to acquire automated machinery to expand its production capacity based on the market demands, as local retailers are increasingly embracing Proudly South African products.
“We are happy to contribute in import substitution, growing the economy, and more importantly, creating jobs for the local people, both skilled and unskilled, assisting them to earn a decent living,” she said.
Managing Director of Argento, Joudalle Govender, also bears testimony to the positive impact of the CTFLGP on her company, which is based in Mandeni, KwaZulu-Natal.
The company manufactures apparel and corporate clothing for a major retailer and numerous corporate clients.
“We used the funding for operational expenses and to re-tool the factory with new machinery. The funding allowed us to create 45 new jobs. 100 people are currently employed in our company, 80 of whom are women.
"Our profit margins increased and we had a rapid growth in production due to the extra capacity,” Govender said.
She said the company is planning to expand its product lines, adopting sustainable practices, improving its manufacturing efficiency and exploring new markets.
“Our future plans include expanding our current building and creating 100 more jobs. We are also looking into exporting our local garments and creating more awareness on local manufacturing with South Africa,” Govender said.
She emphasises the importance of the Retail-Clothing, Textile, Footwear and Leather (R-CTFL) Masterplan in promoting sustainability and innovation within the industry, which she said is crucial in adapting to the changing market demands and consumer preferences.
“I love the fact that the plan focuses on several key objectives, such as job creation and increasing local production. Argento is a local champion because we produce our own local fabric in the rural area of Isithebe.
“My favourite part is that the plan enhances competitiveness in the global market, by fostering collaboration between government, labour, and industry stakeholders. That is important for our economy,” said Govender.
The stories of two companies that operate in the clothing and textile sector undoubtedly illustrate the critical importance of the master plans, and the positive impact of the collaboration between government, business and labour on the South African economy.
According to the Director of Clothing and Leather at the dtic, Dr Jaywant Irkhede, more than R1.87 billion had been approved for 154 businesses employing almost 24 000 people and R1.41 billion was disbursed by July this year. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 09/12/2024 - 11:03
KZN Premier condemns Highflats killings
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has called on the police to leave no stone unturned in their investigation into the mass killings at Highflats on Wednesday night.
According to reports, seven people, including three children, were allegedly killed execution-style while sitting in the lounge.
Ntuli expressed deep concern over these brutal acts of violence and called for an end to such acts in the province.
The Premier has since instructed KwaZulu-Natal South African Police Service (SAPS) Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, to deploy every available resource to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure the atrocities are dealt with promptly and effectively.
“We remain dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens in KwaZulu-Natal. We wish to pass our message of condolences to the people affected by this tragic incident,” the Premier said.
Ntuli is set to visit Highflats today (Thursday), to assess the area and to extend his condolences to impacted residents. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 09/12/2024 - 09:53
SARS receives R4.1bn tax directives applied for in two pot system
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has received tax directives worth R4.1 billion in applications for the savings withdrawals in the two pot system.
SARS said it has received a total 161,607 tax directive applications. This includes the directives which have been cancelled.
A total of 159 853 relates to Savings Withdrawal Benefits, which is 98.9% of the total number of applications received from 1 -10 September 2024, which means SARS received an average of 17,964 tax directive applications a day.
SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter said contributions made to a pension or retirement fund were not taxed at the time of payment to the fund but deferred to the time the person retires and then taxed at a reduced rate.
However, when an individual withdraws now, they will be taxed at their marginal tax rate.
“Applications for tax directives are submitted to SARS by the fund administrator via eFiling. The directive indicates to the fund how much tax should be withheld by the fund on behalf of SARS before payout.
“Taxpayers who owe SARS money must realise that this tax debt will be added to the tax on withdrawal from the savings benefit. But if there are payment arrangements in place to settle the debt with SARS, this debt will be deducted as per agreement between SARS and the Taxpayer. A tax debt that has been deferred will also not be deducted,” the Commissioner said on Wednesday.
He indicated that the turn-around time for SARS to complete directive applications, without any human intervention, is no more than 24 hours.
The channels used by taxpayers to get more information from SARS about the new system include the SARS Online Query System on the SARS website and the SARS WhatsApp channel – 0800 11 7277 where taxpayers can do simulated tax calculations on their two pot withdrawals.
“Applicants give three reasons why they want to make a withdrawal from the new system: a transfer due to divorce, a transfer to a retirement fund and a withdrawal by the taxpayer. As the situation is changing daily, SARS will provide periodic updates on the numbers of withdrawals,” SARS said.
READ | Pension fund members required to be registered for tax to withdraw savings
-SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 09/12/2024 - 09:28
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Residents of Limpopo’s Barok Ba Nkwana and Atok villages demand government speak to the mine on their behalf
The Standing Committee on Finance has resolved to conduct a second round of public hearings on the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) Amendment Bill [B26-2018], in consultation with the office of the National Assembly Speaker.
The Bill was tabled in 2018 as private member's Bill in the name of a Member of Parliament, Mr Julius Malema. It then lapsed at the end of the 6th Parliament and has since been revived in the 7th Parliament. The first round of the public hearings was held on 18 November 2018.
The committee was briefed today by the Parliamentary Budget Office on its analysis and assessment of the Bill's socio-economic impact.
The SARB Amendment Bill seeks to, amongst other things, amend the South African Reserve Bank Act to make the state the sole shareholder of the shares in the bank and gives powers to the Minister to exercise the rights attached to the shares on behalf of the state. It further seeks to give the Minister of Finance power to appoint directors of the board, instead of board members being elected at an ordinary general meeting.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
The Portfolio Committee on Police has reiterated that regaining trust between the police and communities will encourage increased reporting of crimes. The committee received a detailed briefing on the Victims of Crime 2023/24 survey from Statistics South Africa and the overwhelming view was that the survey gives a different perspective, from the eyes of the victims of crime, and will enhance the response from the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The committee highlighted aspects such as the police responsiveness rate, the availability of resources such as vehicles, and the adequacy of investigations as central to resolving the question of trust. “The deficiencies currently with regards to the 10111 call centre and lack of vehicles directly impacts on the ability of SAPS to respond to acts of crime quickly. If the SAPS address these deficiencies, it will be a step in the right direction to resolving the question of trust,” said Mr Ian Cameron, the Chairperson of the committee.
It was also emphasised that the lack of trust in the police has led to an increase in vigilantism. The committee highlighted that vigilantes are inherently problematic as communities operate outside the boundary of the law and in many cases has led to innocent people being victimised.
In line with this, the SAPS must incrementally investigate and remove corrupt members of the SAPS among its ranks. “We commend the arrest of seven members of SAPS in Durban in connection with allegations they attempted to extort R100 000 from a Phoenix businessman. The commitment we have witnessed by the Minister of Police and SAPS management to arrest corrupt and criminal elements within its ranks will greatly assist in rebuilding trust,” Mr Cameron emphasised.
The committee highlighted, though, that an element that undermines trust in the crime fighting effort is the efficacy of the entire justice system value chain. The committee's view is that currently the SAPS arrest many criminals, but the disjuncture is the inability to effectively prosecute those cases. “Operation Shanela is a case in point, where the police have arrested in excess of 800 000 suspects, but the prosecution rate cannot be measured. The entire justice crime prevention and security cluster must work in tandem to ensure effectiveness that will build confidence and might lead to an increase in reporting of crime,” Mr Cameron said.
Meanwhile, the committee highlighted concern with the increase with violent crime against women and children and underscored the inadequacy with the response to protecting vulnerable groups within our communities. “It is unsurprising to learn that 45% of women felt unsafe walking alone in their neighbourhood. The recent murder of Nomsa Jass highlights the vulnerabilities that women in our country continue to face and requires concerted efforts to remedy. Police visibility has largely been inadequate, and criminals are able to terrorise communities at a whim,” Mr Cameron said.
The committee emphasised the need for enhanced collaboration with other government departments such as the Department of Social Development to enhance counselling for victims of crime. According to the committee, it is unacceptable that 92.6% of victims of crime did not receive counselling after an incident, which perpetuates trauma. “We are however hopeful that the discussions between the SAPS and the DSD will yield the necessary intervention required, such as availing social workers at police stations to help victims of crime and alleviate the burden from police officials,” Mr Cameron said.
Regarding gang violence, the committee reiterated its concern that there remains a need to find workable solution to the escalating gang violence. “In Atlantis alone this past weekend there were reported six deaths as a result of gang violence, which continue to escalate at an alarming rate. Despite this, we welcome the intention by the Minister of Correctional Services to stop the movement of crime-related communication from prisons that lead to murders on our streets,” Mr Cameron said.
The committee acknowledged that the statistics give a framework on what trends of crime must be focused on. But most importantly, the committee highlighted the effective functioning of the justice crime prevention and security cluster in the effort to fight crime.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
NBA Africa (www.NBA.com) today announced the 10 startup companies from seven African countries that have been selected to pitch their products to a panel of international industry leaders at a Demo Day at the NBA headquarters in New York City on Wednesday, Sept. 25 as part of “Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator (http://apo-opa.co/47lTICe),” which the league launched in April 2024 to support Africa's technology ecosystem and the next generation of African entrepreneurs.
The panel will then determine the four winning companies that will be awarded financial support and mentorship, including an opportunity to participate in workshops and development programs facilitated by NBA Africa or its partners. Below are the 10 startups that will compete for the four prize-winning spots.
“We have been inspired by the level of talent and creativity from all of the applicants, and we congratulate the 10 deserving finalists who will showcase their innovative solutions at Demo Day later this month,” said NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi. “NBA Africa is committed to supporting the continued growth of startups on the continent, including the four prize-winners whose innovative solutions will further elevate the sport and creative industries in Africa for years to come.”
Operated by ALX Ventures, “Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator” was open to early-stage startups in Africa that develop solutions in event management and ticketing, youth development, AI, and digital marketing. The initiative will support Africa's tech ecosystem and the next generation of African tech entrepreneurs by providing them with access to mentorship and capital that will help drive growth in the sports and creative industries.
The four prize-winning startups will be announced at Demo Day.
Video (http://apo-opa.co/4d2bY4w): Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator Reveals 10 Finalists for Demo Day
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Basketball Association (NBA).
Contact:
Pawel Weszka
NBA Africa Communications
pweszka@nba.com
+27 10 0072666
About NBA Africa:
NBA Africa is an affiliate of the National Basketball Association (NBA), a global sports and media organization with the mission to inspire and connect people everywhere through the power of basketball. NBA Africa conducts the league's business in Africa, including the Basketball Africa League (BAL), and has opened subsidiary offices in Cairo, Egypt; Dakar, Senegal; Johannesburg, South Africa; Lagos, Nigeria; and Nairobi, Kenya. The league's efforts on the continent have focused on increasing access to basketball and the NBA through youth and elite development, social responsibility, media distribution, corporate partnerships, NBA Africa Games, NBA Stores, the BAL, and more.
NBA games and programming are available in all 54 African countries, and the NBA has hosted three sold-out exhibition games on the continent since 2015. The BAL, a partnership between the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and NBA Africa, is a professional league featuring 12 club teams from across Africa that concluded its fourth season in June 2024. Fans can follow @ NBA_Africa and @ theBAL on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube
President Ramaphosa hosts dinner with leaders of GNU
President Cyril Ramaphosa will this evening host an engagement over dinner with all the political leaders of parties that are signatory to the Government of National Unity (GNU).
Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the purpose of the dinner is to provide an opportunity for a review on the functioning of the GNU thus far and to discuss in detail the formulation of a dispute resolution mechanism.
Magwenya was addressing a media briefing on Wednesday as well as updating the public on President Ramaphosa’s programme, and addressing topical issues of interest.
The dinner is taking place as the President is set to sign the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill into law, which aims to strengthen governance within South Africa's education sector.
In light of recent public statements relating to President Ramaphosa’s decision to sign into law the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill, Magwenya said it was necessary to restate the President’s constitutional responsibilities in this regard.
Quoting Section 79(1) of the Constitution he said: “The President must either assent to and sign a Bill passed in terms of this Chapter or, if the President has reservations about the constitutionality of the Bill, refer it back to the National Assembly for reconsideration.”
“The President is not entirely surprised that there's a dispute. The President anticipates there will be many other disputes in the course of the term. However, he expects that there is maturity, that there is ongoing commitment to the country such that we find ways of resolving these disputes without having to threaten the stability and the sustainability of this GNU.
“So that is important to underscore and as I've mentioned. Tonight, there will be an engagement over dinner with all leaders of parties who are signatory to the GNU, and they'll all have an opportunity to express their concerns, but more constructively, to look at the way forward, to look at how these issues of disputes are resolved,” Magwenya said.
According to the Constitutional Court case in Doctors for Life International v Speaker, Magwenya highlighted that the President cannot refuse to sign the Bill for political reasons.
The only ground upon which the President can refuse to sign the Bill is constitutional reservations.
The Presidential spokesperson said President Ramaphosa remains satisfied with the work of the GNU and this evening is an opportunity for all party leaders to provide their own assessments and give feedback to the President.
Leaders will also be able to raise any issues of concern.
“The President is also enthused with the level of dedication and commitment that has been demonstrated by members of his national executive, as well as the level of collaboration that Ministers from different parties have applied in resolving challenges facing the government and the country,” he said.
Magwenya highlighted one example of such collaboration, which is the partnership between Minister John Steenhuisen and Minister Ronald Lamola in securing the new trade dispensation with China on South African beef.
He said the President believes this dispensation will transform the South African beef industry and will create more participation opportunities for small scale black farmers.
Threats made to the stability of GNU
Magwenya said it was disturbing that whenever there is a dispute, one will hear threats being made to the stability of the GNU.
“It is disturbing because such threats are not only directed to the president, they are directed to the stability of the country. There are threats directed to South Africans.
“The GNU must remain stable, must remain united, as it is called the GNU for the benefit of the country. It is not there for the benefit of any individual political leader. It has been formulated for the benefit of all South Africans,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 09/11/2024 - 15:37
President Ramaphosa to attend BMW 'start of production' event
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to attend the start of production event for BMW’s new generation X3 plug in hybrid model vehicle.
This is according to Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya.
During the South Africa Investment Conference last year, the company announced that it will pour in some R4.2 billion in investment to equip its Rosslyn Plant in Tshwane, Gauteng to build the next generation vehicle.
“The President is pleased that this vehicle will be exclusively built here in South Africa at the BMW Plant here in Rosslyn for the rest of the world.
“The President noted with appreciation BMW’s long history in South Africa and its footprint that has grown significantly over time. BMW’s investment in its Plant in Rosslyn dates back five decades,” Magwenya said at a media briefing on Wednesday.
The event is set to be held on 11 October.
READ | BMW to invest R4.2 billion into its Tshwane plant
The spokesperson highlighted that some 95 000 direct and indirect jobs have been created by the company’s activities in the country.
READ | President sets R2 trillion investment target
“BMW’s investment supports the South African government’s industrial and economic policy objectives of ensuring job creation, increased industrial output and export income, transformation, and the future sustainability.
“BMW Group announced a R4.2 billion investment in its plant operations in Rosslyn during the President’s Investment Conference held on 13 April 2023 as a demonstration of that commitment to South Africa and its people. This investment is now complete, and the President will be pleased to see the BMW state-of-the-art plant during this Start of Production Event,” Magwenya said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 09/11/2024 - 15:10
Peace and safety are key to growing tourism sector
With the country commemorating Tourism Month in September, peace and safety have been highlighted as catalysts to grow the tourism sector, says Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Deputy Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe.
At an event to celebrate Tourism Month which is commemorated annually in September, Lobishe called on all stakeholders to collaborate in ensuring peace and safety.
Tourism Month promotes domestic travel, showcasing the country's diverse tourism offerings, and to highlight the sector's significant contribution to the South African economy.
This year’s Tourism Month is celebrated under the theme: "Tourism and Peace-30 years of connecting people and cultures”.
Lobishe said the metro’s focus area for this year is not only tourism safety but also diversification of tourism products to bring about memorable experiences for tourists.
"We have a past where there was no peace and safety was only for a few. Some people were not allowed to travel freely and be tourists in their own country.
“In recognising our past and embracing our future, we need to work collaboratively to create a conducive environment for the world to come to our city and celebrate with us,” Lobishe said.
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To deliver a memorable Tourism Month, Lobishe said the metro has mobilised critical stakeholders in the areas of business, and these include safety and security such as the South African Police Service (SAPS), private security, the tourism industry like the Eastern Cape Tourism Board, and relevant government entities and local based tourism practitioners.
Lobishe said the municipality prides itself as the best in delivering cultural experiences, “an element that sets the metro apart from its competitors.”
She highlighted another positive addition to the metro tourism offerings, the booming cruise industry. Last year, the metro received 36 cruise vessels with a 45 80 0 combined number of passengers, with an estimated economic impact of R77 million.
This year, the metro expects a slight increase of 40 cruise vessels.
“We also want to improve on the number of days these cruise vessels spend in our metro so that more jobs can be created. It then becomes important that we improve on our offerings,” Lobishe said.
Tourism ambassadors
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Economic Development, Tourism and Agriculture Shuling Lindoor said that as part of the metro’s efforts to improve on tourism safety, the directorate has hired more tourism ambassadors to work with the security cluster.
"Our primary focus is safety. We have put resources to complement the Tourism Month Safety Plan that is already in place, led by SAPS and the metro police. For tourists to have a memorable experience, safety is paramount,” Lindoor said.
Events
Meanwhile, as part of this year’s Tourism Month celebrations, the metro will host a National Cruise liner workshop to build relations and engage tourism operators on some of the metro’s unique tourism offerings.
The workshop will be held from 26-27 September and the Green Flag Trials - an offering that seeks to promote sustainable tourism - will be held on 28 September at the Van Stadens Reserve.
“Nelson Mandela Bay tourism offering would not be complete without good traditional food and heritage. Kasi Food Festival will give tourists that special experience that will also offer a good platform for township tourism to benefit.
“This event will be held in Zwide Township on 28-29 September 2024. The month will be closed on a high note at the Mendi Arts Centre through an interactive of the story of New Brighton,” the municipality said.
In between the planned major events and programmes, the metro will be partnering with different entities to deliver an exciting Tourism Month, and these include Tourism Awards, Premier Soccer League games and cultural events. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 09/11/2024 - 10:26
Despite having several crucial injuries in his side, UWC head coach Lwando Mdleleni will be looking to fire UWC into the finals of Varsity Football 2024 on Thursday. The 2015 champions were the only team to beat Tuks in the round robin stages and will be on the hunt to repeat their success of round …
Gauteng Education hosts successful Sign Language Festival
The Gauteng Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Department hosted a successful Sign Language and Music Enhancement Mini Festival on Tuesday at the Transoranje School for the Deaf in Pretoria.
The Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Matome Chiloane, was joined by Miss South Africa, Mia Le Roux, at the festival.
The event was part of a series of mini festivals hosted by the Gauteng Department of Education to showcase the diverse range of certified skills learners acquire through the Multi-Certification Skills Programme.
The department said the festival highlighted one of the most significant achievements of the Multi-Certification Skills Programme - the introduction of Basic South African Sign Language (SASL) to hearing learners from Grade 5.
“While SASL is typically taught at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Levels 4 and 5, the department has adapted the curriculum for Grade 5 learners, ensuring that inclusivity begins early in the education system.
“This initiative aims to bridge the gap between the deaf and hearing communities by providing foundational skills in Sign Language, thereby fostering empathy and understanding from a young age,” the department said.
Miss South Africa supported the event as an honoured guest, celebrating the remarkable efforts of both deaf and hearing learners.
The learners showcased their newly acquired skills in SASL and music, emphasising the importance of communication and the inclusion of all individuals, regardless of their abilities.
"The festival exemplifies our commitment to inclusivity, breaking barriers, and building a society where no learner is left behind. Through SASL, we are fostering empathy and understanding between hearing and deaf learners, providing them with opportunities to become advocates for the Deaf community," Chiloane said.
The festival featured a music enhancement segment that incorporated innovative techniques allowing deaf participants to experience music through vibrations.
The department said this effort ensures that the power and joy of music are accessible to everyone, further uniting learners through the universal language of rhythm and sound.
September has been a significant month for the department, as it continues to nurture the talents, creativity, and academic excellence of learners across the province.
The festival concluded with a call to continue creating inclusive learning spaces where all learners can thrive and contribute to building a more connected society. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 09/11/2024 - 12:09
UIF announces extended operating hours
The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) has announced that selected service points will be open on Saturdays to render services to clients and employers during the month of September.
“A decision to extend operating hours at UIF service points and to ramp up capacity was taken in anticipation of increased demand for real-time services, after the Pretoria High Court at the end of August 2024 issued an interim interdict preventing a service provider from implementing a new contract for support and maintenance services to the uFiling platform,” the Department of Employment and Labour said in a statement.
uFiling is an online platform used by clients and employers to apply for UIF benefits or to register companies with the UIF, declare employees and pay over contributions to the Fund.
The platform is not connected to the main UIF system used to adjudicate and process claims.
“Due to the uFiling platform not having any support or maintenance at this time, its services was suspended. The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) has since the suspension of uFiling processed more than 181 000 claims at service points around the country, totalling a pay out of R419 607 185,” the department said.
Extended operating hours will be rendered from 07:30 until 16:00 at UIF service points within labour centres during September month as follows:
• In Gqeberha, East London and Qonce in the Eastern Cape province.
• At the Pietermaritzburg and Richards Bay labour centres in KwaZulu-Natal.
• At the Emalahleni, Secunda, Middleburg, Malelane and Mbombela labour centres in Mpumalanga province.
• At Mahikeng, Potchefstroom, Lichtenburg, Klerksdorp, Vryburg, Christiana, Brits, Taung and Rustenburg labour centre in the North West province.
• Cape Town, Paarl, Mitchells Plain and Bellville in the Western Cape.
Registration of employers
New employer registrations can be done through BizPortal, available on https://www.bizportal.gov.za/services.aspx.
The department has urged its clients to note that BizPortal is only for employer registration and will not be able to register employees. Employee registration can be undertaken at a nearby labour centre.
Registration can also be done by downloading UI.8 and UI.19 forms from www.labour.gov.za and submitting the completed forms to e-mail address newui8registrations@labour.gov.za.
Declaration of employees
Employers with electronic payroll systems may declare their employees by sending live payroll files to e-mail address Declarations@labour.gov.za or by visiting a nearby labour centre for services.
In case of a manual declarations an employer can download a UI.19 form from www.labour.gov.za and submit a completed form via email to uif.declarations@labour.gov.za.
Regarding contributions, the department said an employer pays contributions to the UIF before the 7th day of each month. Where the 7th day is not a “business day” such as a Saturday, Sunday or public holiday, payments must be made on or before the last business day.
“UIF contributions are made up of 2% of an employee’s salary. 1% is deducted from the salary of an employee and 1% contributed by the employer.
“Employers who are registered for tax purposes and/or the Skills Development Levy (SDL), must pay their contributions directly to the South African Revenue Services (SARS),” the department said.
Employers can also pay contributions using bank details provided on the Department of Employment and Labour website www.labour.gov.za and use their UIF reference number as the reference for payment.
“Through queue management, monitoring of operations and staff repurposing the UIF has been able to adequately handle claim volumes around the country. The Fund is confident that by extending working hours it will be able to maintain the status quo whilst developing alternative online solutions for clients and employers,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 09/11/2024 - 09:51