MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
LaMuse Classic 2024 This weekend, the iconic shores of Surfers Corner, Muizenberg, will come alive as we celebrate Women’s Day with the much-anticipated LaMuse Classic, proudly supported by the Department of Arts and Culture, Surfing South Africa, and The Store. Seventh Anniversary This year, we mark the seventh anniversary of this extraordinary ‘for women, by …
Dept calls for swift prosecution of suspect in abalone bust
The Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Narend Singh, has called for the swift prosecution of a motorist found in the illegal possession of 640kg of dry abalone in Makhanda, Eastern Cape.
“We commend the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Monitoring Control and Surveillance (MCS) Unit, working together with the South African Police Service (SAPS), for their vigilance, and for ensuring that the confiscated abalone was safeguarded until it was weighed, tagged and transported to the departmental storage facilities,” Singh said on Wednesday.
This follows the arrest of a man found in possession of 27 black plastic bags containing a total of 13 661 dry abalone.
On 5 August 2024, the MCS unit based in Port Alfred was called out to Makhanda following the discovery of the poached abalone during a stop-and-search by the SAPS.
The department said the MCS Unit will continue to work with law enforcement and other stakeholders to curb the illegal trade of marine living resources through Operation Phakisa’s Initiative 5 – Compliance and Enforcement.
Departmental officials will also heighten participation in community awareness programmes by visiting schools to educate the youth on the sustainable utilisation of marine living resources.
“I urge every South African to be vigilant and report any environmental crimes to the authorities. It is crucial that our communities work hand in hand with law enforcement agencies to protect our marine resources,” Singh said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 08/14/2024 - 11:35
Carte Blanche, this past Sunday, covered the NHLS cyber-attack. This attack highlights the continued threat to South Africa, it’s businesses and institutions – with our country being one of the most targeted for cyber-attacks in the world. Graeme Millar, MD of SevenC, a home-grown South African Managed IT Services company highlights the best practices for …
31 July, Johannesburg – Austell Pharmaceuticals has recently announced the launch of its latest product, Tasectan Duo, an innovative solution for the treatment of diarrhoea. This first-of-its-kind treatment in South Africa brings together the clinically proven anti-diarrhoeal effects of Tasectan with the balancing power of probiotics, creating a combined solution to a common but serious …
Mens finalists © Zane De Lange Victoria Bay: In an exciting finish to the 59th SA Surfing Championships, Anastasia Venter is the new Women’s Champion, and defending Men’s Champion Tom Lindhorst retains his title. Buffalo City wins the coveted President’s Cup, and Tyrell Johnson wins the Surfer Of The Contest Award Women’s Finalists © Zane …
JOHANNESBURG: White-ball head coach Rob Walter has today named the 15-player squad for the upcoming three-match T20 International (T20I) series...
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has officially declared the ongoing Mpox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS), marking the first such declaration by the agency since its inception in 2017.
This declaration, under Article 3, Paragraph F of the Africa CDC Statutes, empowers the organization to lead and coordinate responses to significant health emergencies. The statute mandates Africa CDC to “coordinate and support Member States in health emergency responses, particularly those declared PHECS or Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), as well as health promotion and disease prevention through health systems strengthening, addressing communicable and non-communicable diseases, environmental health, and Neglected Tropical Diseases.”
The declaration will enable the mobilization of resources across affected countries, unlocking essential funding, strengthening Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE), boosting surveillance and laboratory testing efforts, and enhancing human resource capacities to respond effectively to Mpox through a One Health approach.
Africa CDC Director General Dr. Jean Kaseya emphasized the urgency of swift and decisive action: “Today, we declare this PHECS to mobilize our institutions, our collective will, and our resources to act—swiftly and decisively. This empowers us to forge new partnerships, strengthen our health systems, educate our communities, and deliver life-saving interventions where they are needed most. There is no need for travel restrictions at this time.”
At least 13 African countries, including previously unaffected nations like Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, have reported Mpox outbreaks. So far in 2024, these countries have confirmed 2,863 cases and 517 deaths, primarily in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Suspected cases across the continent have surged past 17,000, a significant increase from 7,146 cases in 2022 and 14,957 cases in 2023. This is just the tip of the iceberg when we consider the many weaknesses in surveillance, laboratory testing and contact tracing.
Dr. Kaseya underscored the gravity of the situation stating “This is not just another challenge; it's a crisis that demands our collective action. Article 3, Paragraph F of the Africa CDC Statutes mandates us to lead and coordinate the response when there is a declaration of a public health emergency of international concern.”
From May 2022 to July 2023, Mpox was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the WHO. However, Africa did not receive the support it urgently needed during this period. As global cases began to decline, the escalating numbers in Africa were largely ignored. Dr. Kaseya emphasized the need for a change in approach: “We urge our international partners to seize this moment to act differently and collaborate closely with Africa CDC to provide the necessary support to our Member States.”
He continued, appealing to global partners: “We call on you to stand with us in this critical hour. Africa has long been on the frontlines in the fight against infectious diseases, often with limited resources. The battle against Mpox demands a global response. We need your support, expertise, and solidarity. The world cannot afford to turn a blind eye to this crisis.”
He explained that the emergency declaration follows wide consultations, including a unanimous decision by the Africa CDC Emergency Consultative Group (ECG), chaired by Professor Salim Abdool Karim, head of CAPRISA, an AIDS research program based in Durban, South Africa.
Prof. Karim highlighted that limited surveillance and evidence suggest the situation could be more severe than currently understood. “The number of cases has significantly increased compared to 2022 when WHO declared Mpox a public health emergency. It's clear that we're facing a different scenario with far more cases, resulting in a higher burden of illness,” he said. He also raised concerns about the rising fatalities, particularly the potential link between HIV and Mpox. “Our concern is that we may be seeing more fatalities in Africa due to the association with HIV,” he noted.
Cross-border transmission to previously unaffected countries was also a concern, prompting the ECG to urge the strategic distribution of the limited vaccines available. The lack of diagnostic capabilities was identified as a critical issue requiring urgent attention, and the ECG encouraged the development of response plans, promising to provide input and support.
To address the Mpox outbreak in Africa, Africa CDC has set up a 25-member Incident Management Team based at the epicenter of the Mpox epidemic with mandate to support affected and at-risk countries. Africa CDC has also signed a partnership agreement with the European Commission's Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) and Bavarian Nordic to provide over 215,000 doses of the MVA-BN® vaccine—the only FDA and EMA-approved Mpox vaccine. Africa CDC will oversee the equitable distribution of these vaccines, prioritizing local needs across the affected Member States.
MPOX SYMPTOMS, PREVENTION, AND TREATMENT
Mpox is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus, with two distinct clades: Clade I and Clade II. Common symptoms include a skin rash or mucosal lesions lasting 2–4 weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes. The virus can be transmitted to humans through physical contact with an infectious person, contaminated materials, or infected animals.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) made a significant step forward in enhancing aviation's role as a catalyst for sustainable development in Africa. During the AFI Week held in Gabon, ICAO signed four pivotal capacity building and implementation support agreements with Member States, each aimed at strengthening their aviation sectors and alignment with international standards.
Gabon's Agence Nationale de l'Aviation Civile entered into a Management Service Agreement (MSA) with ICAO. This comprehensive agreement will provide Gabon with access to ICAO's expertise, project management and procurement services, and customized training packages. A key focus of this collaboration is the potential development of a Civil Aviation Master Plan, which will chart the strategic growth of Gabon's aviation sector, ensuring efficient, safe, and sustainable development of infrastructure and services.
Chad's Autorité de l'Aviation Civile partnered with ICAO for a preliminary assessment of training needs. This crucial project will evaluate the technical and general skills of ADAC's staff responsible for overseeing civil aviation safety and security. By optimizing human resources, Chad aims to significantly enhance the operational efficiency of its civil aviation authority.
Uganda's Civil Aviation Authority and ICAO agreed to develop a comprehensive 15-year Air Navigation Plan. This strategic framework will not only guide the implementation of air navigation services and infrastructure but also ensure Uganda's alignment with international aviation standards, in order to facilitate a safer, more efficient, and higher capacity air navigation system for the East African nation.
South Africa's Civil Aviation Authority signed a Declaration of Intent to host the next Global Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) Summit. Set for February 2025 in Johannesburg, this summit highlights South Africa's commitment to nurturing the future leaders of the aviation industry.
These agreements represent ICAO's commitment to supporting African Member States in developing sustainable aviation sectors. By focusing on areas such as strategic planning, human resource development, and infrastructure enhancement, these initiatives are set to improve aviation safety, efficiency, and capacity across the continent.
The collaborative efforts between ICAO and these African states are expected to yield significant benefits, not only for the aviation sector but also for the broader economy. As aviation acts as a multiplier for economic growth, these agreements are poised to contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, improve connectivity, and foster economic opportunities in the region.
As these projects unfold, they will serve as examples of how targeted ICAO support and collaboration in the aviation sector can drive sustainable development and economic growth in Africa.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
In an update, the WHO said that an outbreak of mpox was declared in Burundi on 25 July, at around the same time that Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda also confirmed their own cases.
The UN health agency noted that all of these infections – where patients' symptoms included fever, joint pain and a widespread rash - were linked to the “expanding outbreak” in East and Central Africa.
Later in the day, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) officially declared the situation a public health emergency voicing concern over the speed of its spread in the past few weeks.
Every infection was identified after genetic sequencing as clade Ib – one of three recognized variants of the virus, explained WHO, which added that 934 new laboratory-confirmed cases of mpox and four deaths had been reported to the UN health agency from 26 countries in June.
This indicated “continuing transmission of mpox across the world”, it noted.
Endemic problem
Mpox been circulating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for years, according to the UN health agency, which said that there has been an “unprecedented increase” in the number of countries in Africa reporting mpox, which is mainly spread through sexual contact.
Within the African Region, the WHO said that the DRC reported 96 per cent of the confirmed mpox cases in June. But with limited access to testing in rural areas, less than one quarter of suspected cases there have been tested, so it is very likely that the disease burden is higher than initial estimates.
Data indicates that the DRC has been experiencing “a severe outbreak” of mpox since the beginning of the year, with more than 14,000 cases and 511 deaths reported, the UN health agency said.
Transmission focus
In a related development, WHO said that Côte d'Ivoire is also experiencing an outbreak of mpox, clade II; this was the variant that was responsible for the global mpox outbreak in 2022, the UN health agency said, adding that South Africa has reported two more confirmed cases.
Mpox – formerly monkeypox - is endemic in Central and West Africa. It can be transmitted through physical contact with an infected person, animal or contaminated materials. Symptoms include skin rash or lesions, accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen lymph nodes.
World trends
Globally, the most affected region in June was Africa with 567 cases of infection, followed by the Americas (175 cases), Europe – excluding the Eastern Mediterranean region - (100 cases), Western Pacific (81 cases) and South-East Asia (11 cases).
From 1 January 2022 to 30 June 2024, a total of 99,176 laboratory-confirmed cases of mpox - including 208 deaths – have been reported to the UN health agency from 116 countries in all WHO regions. Apart from Africa, “the outbreak continues at a low level of transmission” globally, WHO said.
Data for June showed that 16 out of 26 reporting countries showed an increase in cases compared to May. DR Congo reported the highest increase in Africa – with 543 cases in June compared to 459 a month earlier (up 62 per cent) while Spain saw the highest increase in Europe (54 cases, up from 38 in May), Colombia reported the highest increase in the Americas with 11 cases in June and none in May, Australia had the highest increase in the Western Pacific (from 33 cases in May to 64 in June). No country reported an increase in South-East Asia.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.
Atlanta Phambili – “forward” in Zulu and Xhosa – is a subnational diplomacy initiative which seeks to deepen bilateral ties between the United States and South Africa through City of Atlanta's educational and research institutions, Diaspora connections, creatives industry, and economic dynamism. The initiative is a joint effort by the U.S. Mission in South Africa and the government of South Africa.
In March 2024, the U.S. Mission launched Atlanta Phambili with a four-day trade and investment-focused roadshow in Atlanta co-hosted by Prosper Africa. The roadshow included events hosted in partnership with Spelman College, Georgia Tech, the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, among others. The delegation had the opportunity to meet with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and civil rights icon Ambassador Andrew Young. The South African delegation included senior business executives and government officials. The U.S. government delegation included U.S. Ambassador to South Africa Reuben E. Brigety, Prosper Africa Coordinator British Robinson, USAID Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman, United States Export-Import Bank Chair Reta Jo Lewis, and United States Trade and Development Agency Director Enoh Ebong. During the Georgia Tech Hosted Atlanta Phambili Trade & Innovation Forum on March 27, USAID Deputy Administrator Coleman announced the launch of the Africa Trade Desk, an exciting new program to connect African products with large U.S. retailer buyers.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of U.S. Embassy & Consulates in South Africa.
BULAWAYO: A 153-run opening stand between Modiri Litheko and Lesego Senokwane helped South Africa Emerging storm to a seven-wicket victory in...
Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule a beacon of hope: KZN Premier
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the family and colleagues of seasoned radio personality and businesswoman, Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule.
She passed away on Monday after a battle with lung cancer.
Ntuli described Mbokazi-Nkambule as a pioneer of the arts and a respected radio journalist who used her platform to inspire hope.
“Zanele Mbokazi was a pioneer and touched the lives of many. She was a media personality, but many will recall that she was the founder of the Crown Gospel Awards, which are often referred to as the ‘Grammys of gospel music in South Africa’ since their inception in 2007,” Ntuli said.
“Through her show ‘Eshilo’ which was broadcast every Sunday morning from 9am to 12pm, she connected with people on a personal level, making each one feel seen and heard. Her passion for radio and commitment to providing quality content made her an irreplaceable part of our community, and her absence will be deeply felt.”
READ | Government pays tribute to Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule
For dedicating her life to uplift others by spreading messages of hope, faith, and resilience, Ntuli said Mbokazi-Nkambule deserves to be applauded.
“Her contribution, by promoting gospel music talent from KZN and beyond, through the Crown Gospel Awards certainly changed many people’s lives and fortunes. Her legacy continues to be celebrated in KZN and across South Africa,” Ntuli said.
The Premier added that they had every hope that Mbokazi-Nkambule was going to recover from her illness because she was not “merely a presenter, she was a beacon of hope and inspiration in the broadcasting industry.”
EThekwini Municipality Mayor, Cyril Xaba, has also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and relatives of Mbokazi-Nkambule.
“Amongst her many great accomplishments, we will remember her mostly through her contribution to uplifting the creative industry,” Xaba said.
Born and raised in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, the 52-year-old Mbokazi-Nkambule spent most of her life in the province, where she grew in prominence in radio and in the South African gospel music industry.
She was the founder of the Crown Gospel Music Awards, which honoured excelling talent in the gospel music genre. SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 10:54
Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has completed and inaugurated the Hamidiye Mosque Ornamentation Project in Johannesburg, South Africa. The project aims to strengthen the historical and cultural ties between Türkiye and the South African Muslim community.
The Hamidiye Mosque, built in the mid-19th century, holds historical significance as the site where Mahatma Gandhi launched the civil disobedience movement with the pass burning in 1908. In 1980, the mosque was designated as a cultural heritage site and was renovated by TİKA at the request of Jamiatul Ulama. As part of the project, the mosque's main ceiling was adorned with the Surahs of Al-Fath and Al-Fatiha, while the women's prayer space was decorated with traditional Turkish motifs. Sultan Abdulhamid II's tughra was placed at the entrance of the mosque.
Deputy Minister of Social Development, Ganief Hendricks; Turkish Ambassador to South Africa, Ayşegül Kandaş; TİKA's Coordinator in Pretoria, Abdulkadir Abukan; Jamiatul Ulama Secretary General and Hamidiye Mosque Imam, Ebrahim Bham; Muslim MPs, diplomats and representatives from NGOs attended the opening ceremony.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Kandaş highlighted the significance of collaborating with the South African Muslim community and underscored the value of TİKA's projects in South Africa.
Hendricks expressed his gratitude to TİKA for the mosque's ornamentation project and shared his family's historical connection to the mosque. He noted that his great-grandfather was one of the founding members and had organized a fundraising meeting in front of the mosque during the Tripoli War to support the Ottoman Empire.
TİKA's Coordinator in Pretoria Abukan stated that TİKA will continue its efforts to preserve shared heritage in South Africa and strengthen existing connections.
Mr. Bham, Secretary General of Jamiatul Ulama and Imam of Hamidiye Mosque, referred to the congratulatory and welcome letter presented by the mosque community to Ottoman Consul General Mehmet Remzi Bey. He emphasized that the mosque has been a symbol of shared heritage for Turkish and South African Muslims since its establishment.
During the opening ceremony, Islamic calligraphy artist Refik Çarıkçı introduced the project to the guests and demonstrated calligraphy techniques.
This project is viewed as a significant step in strengthening the ties between Türkiye and the South African Muslim community, preserving shared cultural heritage and advancing diplomatic relations.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA).
The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, arrived in Harare, Republic of Zimbabwe, on 12 August 2024 to participate in the Meeting of the SADC Council of Ministers taking place ahead of the 44th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government.
The Summit will take place under the theme, Promoting Innovation to unlock opportunities for sustained economic growth and development towards an Industrialised SADC.
The meeting of the SADC Council of Ministers takes place from 13-14 August 2024. A SADC Organ Troika Summit will also be held on 16 August 2024.
The Summit will provide an opportunity for SADC leaders to assess and review progress made in terms of the regions flagship integration agenda, the Regional Strategic Indicative Plan (RISDP) 2020-2030, as well as address matters relating to peace and security in the region.
During the Summit, the Republic of Zimbabwe will assume the Chairpersonship of SADC, taking over from the Republic of Angola, who chaired SADC since the previous Summit held in Luanda, Republic of Angola, in August 2023.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
On 16 August 2024, the University of Cape Town and the Metropolitan University of Hong Kong will sign a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which is the first of its kind to establish official working relations between the two universities.
This is one of the projects that the South African Consulate coordinated to promote people-to-people relations as well as relations between institutions of higher learning of South Africa and Hong Kong.
The Consulate has established good working relations with various universities in Hong Kong, including the Metropolitan University of Hong Kong. Recently, the Consulate and the Metropolitan University of Hong Kong collaborated in partnership with Freedom Park to host the 30 Years of Democracy activities that took place in June as well as a month-long 30 Years of Democracy and Mandela legacy exhibition courtesy of Freedom Park, which ended on 31 July 2024 at the University.
The MoU is based on the principle of mutual benefit to promote and enable collaboration for joint educational, cultural interactions, training and research purposes.
The areas proposed for collaboration include:
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
Public Procurement Act not yet effective
While the President has signed into law the Public Procurement Act, the provisions of the Act are not in force yet.
“The President will bring the provisions of the Act into operation through a proclamation in the Gazette,” National Treasury said on Tuesday.
The Public Procurement Act, 2024 (Act No. 28 of 2024) was approved by the President and published as an Act in the Government Gazette on 23 July 2024.
READ | Public Procurement Act to direct public funds to where they are intended
The legislation aims to create a single framework that regulates public procurement, including preferential procurement, by all organs of state, with the necessary efficiency, cost-effectiveness and integrity.
As enacted by the President, the Public Procurement Act addresses weaknesses in the procurement of goods and services by organs of State that have in the past enabled various degrees of corruption, including State capture.
“Section 69 of the Act enables the President to bring the provisions into operation on different dates (phased approach) and to determine different dates for different categories of procuring institutions such as national and provincial departments, national and provincial public entities and municipalities and municipal entities.
“The Act also allows for the repeal or amendment of different provisions of a law to be brought into operation on different dates. For example, the repeal of the Preferential Policy Procurement Framework Act, 2000 (PPPFA), and Chapter 4 of the Act (including provisions of other Chapters necessary for its implementation) and required regulations should take effect on the same date,” National Treasury said.
Many provisions of the Act require regulations before the accompanying provisions of the Act could be brought into operation.
The process of making regulations involves consultation with affected Ministers, the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), and the public and Parliamentary scrutiny as outlined in section 64 of the Act. Different regulations for different categories of procuring institutions and for different types of procurement are provided in section 64.
“The making of regulations regarding procurement of infrastructure and capital assets, and goods and services related to infrastructure and capital assets, are a mandatory requirement.
“The recommendations on the effective dates of various provisions of the Act and the accompanying regulations will consider the readiness of the affected procuring institutions to implement.
“The current procurement framework provided for under the Public Finance Management Act, 1999, the Municipal Finance Management Act, 2003, the PPPFA and other applicable legislation, remain in place until the relevant provisions of the Public Procurement Act, 2024, and accompanying regulations take effect,” National Treasury said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 14:03
Finance Deputy Minister urges responsible use of retirement savings
Finance Deputy Minister David Masondo has encouraged fund members to use their retirement savings sparingly, and only when there is an urgent and dire need.
In less than three weeks, retirement funds across the country will implement the Two-Pot Retirement System.
READ | Fund members urged to get financial advice on pension fund withdrawals
“With the new reforms, members will now be able to withdraw a portion – up to a third – of their retirement savings before retirement, while still preserving funds. They should seek trustworthy financial advice to consider the implications of withdrawing from their savings component,” the Deputy Minister said on Tuesday.
Addressing the Old Mutual Thought Leaders Forum, Masondo emphasised the importance of financial literacy, financial education, and financial advice in this context.
“It is important to note that administration costs and tax at marginal rates will be deducted from such withdrawals. In addition, members will also lose out on all related future growth and the retirement benefit originally intended for those funds."
The Two-Pot Retirement System is the latest in a series of comprehensive reforms implemented by the South African government to simplify and harmonise the pension system, incentivise pension savings, and increase the fairness of the retirement system. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 11:22
MultiChoice Talent Factory (www.MultiChoice.com) is thrilled to announce that it's once again calling upon all aspiring filmmakers, scriptwriters, producers, and storytellers to apply for entry into the 2025 fully funded academic year.
Whether you're a young professional looking to change careers and expand your horizons or a newcomer eager to make your mark in the TV & Film industry, MTF welcomes applicants from all backgrounds across the 13 countries in Africa: Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia, Angola, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi.
Since its inception in 2018, MTF has welcomed 60 students each year giving them an opportunity to reach their dreams and to unleash their potential by providing a platform that nurtures and develops talent across the continent, providing opportunities for growth, networking and success in the entertainment industry.
Through a series of rigorous training programs, MTF believes in using hands-on approach and mentorship from industry experts. Participants not only get a chance to sharpen their craft but also gain invaluable insights into the business of filmmaking. Imagine being chosen as one of the participants to learn from some of the industry's best minds and gaining practical experience in areas such as cinematography, sound design, editing, and more. MTF gives you all these opportunities and does not stop there.
At the end of the programme, top performing students from each academy will get further training, mentorship and internship opportunities with MTF global partners, such as the New York Film Academy (NYFA), Indian-based platform Zee World and will get an opportunity to work on productions in South Africa. Upon completion students receive accredited and recognised qualification and get a chance to produce and direct short films showcased on MultiChoice platforms.
All these initiatives are indicative of MTFs commitment to supporting MultiChoice's content selection of delivering exciting local content, which is rich in culture. Africa has many untold stories and by investing in African talent, MultiChoice gets to uncover and showcase these stories by supporting MTFs students, giving them necessary skills and the platform to produce content that resonates with Africans and the global market. Through this support, MTF alumni's have achieved phenomenal success in their productions.
Just last year, five alumni secured nominations across three categories at the 2023 Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA). In addition to this, Many MTF alumni occupy significant industry roles across the continent, working as directors, producers, sound designers, camera operators, art directors, scriptwriters and editors on major African productions which include Salem, Tempted, Engaito, Mvamizi, Mum vs Wife, Makofi, County 49 and many others. Habtamu S. Mekonen, MTF student from the East Africa Academy in Nairobi, Kenya, recently won an International Emmy Award for a short film that he produced and directed. The success of MTF is best illustrated by the feature films produced by its students. The films highlight the talents and creativity of participants and demonstrate the programme's profound impact.
MTF also fosters entrepreneurial spirit, giving young people the confidence to start their own projects and businesses. To date, thirty of its alumni have registered production houses, creating employment opportunities and contributing to the economy. The knowledge and skills imparted by MTF empowers graduates to be catalysts for economic growth and cultural enrichment in their communities.
Applications are now open and will close on 15 September 2024. Interested candidates can visit https://apo-opa.co/4cjKojb to submit their entries and learn more about the program's requirements.
Are you ready to unleash your talent and step into the spotlight as one of the next generation of filmmakers? Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to ignite your career in film and television with MultiChoice Talent Factory.
Take the first step towards realising your dreams and apply now.
Your journey to success starts here!
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.
Independent non-profit organization Dialogue Earth has been accused of attempting to mobilize a smear campaign against Africa's largest refinery - the 650,000 barrels per day Dangote Refinery. The NGO allegedly contacted Nigerian journalist David Hundeyin to produce an article stating that the refinery raises questions about the country's climate ambitions while assessing the implications of increased fossil fuel utilization in Nigeria. In a statement released on X, Hundeyin highlights the article for what it is: an attempt by a western NGO to use an African voice to endorse energy poverty in Africa.
Representing the voice of the African energy sector and a strong advocate for African voices, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) strongly condemns the dirty tactics employed by Dialogue Earth to hire Africans and use them to destroy their own oil and gas industry. The AEC has long-promoted the critical role oil and gas plays in driving economic development and advancing clean-fuel utilization in Africa. Projects such as Dangote – Nigeria's first large-scale refinery – stand to transform West Africa by reducing the reliance on imported fuel, increasing the availability of clean and locally-sourced petroleum while creating jobs and business opportunities. The Dialogue Earth campaign is a clear demonstration of how the west is demonizing the industry and preventing any meaningful progress to alleviate energy poverty in Africa.
Dialogue Earth allegedly offered Hundeyin USD $500 to write the article, with the brief highlighting several contradictions and areas of concern. Firstly, Dialogue Earth allegedly shared that the purpose of the article was to identify the environmental implications of the Dangote Refinery on Nigeria, particularly within the context of the country's energy transition. However, Nigeria has strongly advocated for the role oil and gas plays in its transition, advocating for a just transition whereby the country can reduce emissions in a way that protects the economy and reduces energy poverty. As one of the biggest oil producers in Africa, Nigeria considers oil and gas to be central to creating the conditions by which the country can transition. As the industry grows, it will generate revenue, strengthen economic activities while promoting low-carbon fuel production. As such, the refinery plays an intrinsic part in the Nigerian energy transition, despite what Dialogue Earth is attempting to state.
Secondly, the brief allegedly includes objectives such as investigating the environmental consequences of the refinery within the context of its adherence to emission standards. As Hundeyin so aptly writes in his statement, Nigeria has long-faced that challenge of relying on imported petroleum, owing largely to the lack of facilities such as Dangote. This has led to West African fuel cargoes – refined internationally – featuring toxic waste and sulfur content that is 200 times the European legal limit. Through the Dangote Refinery, Nigeria will not only be able to reduce its reliance on imported petroleum but put in place clear restrictions regarding sulfur content, thereby promoting environmental protection. Yet Dialogue Earth doesn't seem to care about toxic fuel, only that a refinery that will transform West Africa is put to rest.
The story also aims to explore the geopolitical implications of Nigeria's growing oil industry and the motivations of the refinery. This is ironic given the lack of recognition by Dialogue Earth to the critical role the refinery plays in developing the economy, contributing to global fuel stability while strengthening the energy industry in Nigeria. This attempted smear campaign shows that NGOs such as Dialogue Earth are only advocating for climate change when it suites them and that they have no problem keeping Africa in the dark, using African voices to do so.
“The AEC fully supports Hundeyin and commends him for standing up against Dialogue Earth. We are wholly against a western NGO trying to use African voices to advance their own biased agenda. The attempt to get a well-known Nigerian journalist to effectively endorse such a smear campaign shows a cowardly approach by the western NGO to try and destroy the African oil and gas industry, all because they can't do it with their own names or organizations,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.
The recent attempt by Dialogue Earth is just one of the many attempts by western-based and funded NGOs to stop oil and gas projects in Africa. From the East African Crude Oil Pipeline in Uganda to offshore exploration in South Africa to LNG projects in Mozambique, such organizations appear committed to restricting access to energy in Africa.
“We have seen how African crude oil has been treated, how funding for Mozambique LNG has been treated, how the west has constantly attacked South Africa as it tries to develop it its natural gas and how they have constantly attacked other gas projects and cut off financing. These tactics are hurtful to African development, our fight against energy poverty and to young people that want to build strong democracies,” added Ayuk.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
Lamola arrives in Harare ahead of 44th Ordinary SADC Summit
International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, is in Harare, Zimbabwe, where he is participating in the meeting of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Council of Ministers.
The Council of Ministers oversees the functioning and development of SADC and ensures that policies are properly implemented.
The council consists of Ministers from each Member State, usually from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Economic Planning or Finance, and it meets twice a year.
The meeting, which kicks off today, takes place ahead of the 44th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government. It will conclude on Wednesday
The summit will take place under the theme: ‘Promoting Innovation to unlock opportunities for sustained economic growth and development towards an Industrialised SADC’.
The SADC Organ Troika Summit will also be held on 16 August 2024.
The summit will provide an opportunity for SADC leaders to assess and review progress made in terms of the region’s flagship integration agenda, the Regional Strategic Indicative Plan (RISDP) 2020-2030, as well as address matters relating to peace and security in the region.
During the summit, Zimbabwe will assume the chairpersonship of SADC, taking over from Angola, which chaired SADC since the previous summit held in Luanda in August 2023. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 10:02
Prize-Winning Pastry Chef Celebrates Social Change With Coffee-Inspired Creations. Johannesburg, August, 2024 – This Women’s Month in South Africa, Nespresso ZA is partnering with rising culinary star MOTHEBA MAKETHA to integrate Nespresso coffee into culinary experiences within the South African context while highlighting the exceptional talent of women in the culinary sector. Currently the pastry …
Africa's upstream oil and gas sector is attracting substantial investments, with an $800-billion capital expenditure program focusing on LNG alongside traditional deep-water oil projects currently underway. This investment cycle is expected to boost Africa's LNG production capacity at a time when global gas demand is on the rise.
Responding to this environment, African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy 2024 will host a two-day Upstream Exploration & Production (E&P) Forum spotlighting Africa's LNG prospects. The forum will feature a series of strategic sessions and presentations, highlighting major LNG and floating LNG (FLNG) developments and investment opportunities shaping the sector.
AEW: Invest in African Energy is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.
Mozambique is at the forefront of Africa's LNG growth, with the $20-billion Mozambique LNG project led by TotalEnergies set to produce 12.8 million tons of LNG per annum by 2028. Eni's second FLNG production project in the country – Coral Norte – and ExxonMobil's Rovuma LNG development are anticipated to reach FID by 2025. The country achieved natural gas sales of $1.7 billion in revenue in 2023, mostly driven by the start up of the Coral Sul FLNG project in November 2022.
The Nigeria LNG (NLNG) Train 7 expansion project is approaching completion, set to boost the country's LNG capacity by 35%, adding roughly 8 million tons per annum. The project is part of Nigeria's broader strategy to enhance its LNG production capabilities to meet both local and regional demand. In June 2024, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation signed a Project Development Agreement (PDA) with marine infrastructure company Golar LNG to deploy a FLNG vessel in the offshore Niger Delta region. The PDA plans to monetize 400-500 million standard cubic feet of gas per day, producing LNG, LPG and condensate, with FID expected by Q4 2024.
Under the Upstream E&P Forum, a session on The Demand Economics Driving the Growth of African LNG and FLNG will explore Africa's LNG portfolio, shedding light on supply and demand dynamics and future investment opportunities. Speakers will include Managing Director & General Manager of Eni Rovuma Basin Marica Calabrese, Africa Finance Corporation Vice President Taiwo Okwor, and senior representatives from Golar LNG, Angola LNG, and UTM Offshore.
In West Africa, Equatorial Guinea is also establishing itself as a major LNG player through its Gas Mega Hub (GMH) initiative, which aims to pool regional gas resources to become a central hub for gas processing, liquefaction and distribution. Last October, US oil and gas company Marathon Oil entered into an LNG sales agreement with commodity trader Glencore for Equatorial Guinea's Alba field, positioning the company for the GMH's next phase of development. Meanwhile, the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) LNG project, spanning Mauritania and Senegal, is set to reach first production by Q4 2024, with a capacity of 2.3 million tons per year.
In southern Africa, Angola's LNG market is also growing, launching the second phase of the Falcão natural gas project last December, as well as developing the country's first non-associated gas development project in Soyo. South Africa's Virginia Phase 2 project is set to produce commercial quantities of LNG and liquid helium, with a capacity of 670,000 cubic meters of LNG per day. Meanwhile, the country's Port of Ngqura FLNG project involves the installation of a floating storage and regasification unit, gas-to-power infrastructure, cryogenic pipelines and a terminal for processing, storing, on-site exploitation and distribution of gas acquired from the country's on- and offshore fields.
A session on The Game Changer: Examining African Gas will outline Africa's natural gas reserves, production capacities, infrastructure development and export potential, highlighting potential for transitional energy, power generation and diversified growth. The session will feature senior representatives from Equatorial Guinea's national oil company (NOC) GEPetrol, Seplat Energies, and Mozambican NOC Empresa Nacional de Hidrocarbonetos.
With these developments on the horizon, Africa's leading upstream markets are positioning themselves as key players in the global LNG industry. AEW: Invest in African Energy 2024 will provide a pivotal platform for stakeholders to engage in discussions, forge partnerships and explore new opportunities within Africa's growing LNG sector.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
Mining company African Rainbow Minerals (https://apo-opa.co/46M4tND) reached an agreement last September with financial services company Absa – along with finance institutions Standard Bank, the Development Bank of South Africa and Nedbank – to provide finance for the construction of a 132 MW solar project. The move is set to provide renewable energy to platinum mining projects in South Africa through power purchase agreements (PPAs).
To support the growth of South Africa and Africa's critical mineral industry, Absa is participating in this year's Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) 2024 summit. Shirley Webber, Coverage Head of Resources & Energy at Absa Corporate and Investment Banking – an Absa subsidiary –, will discuss the firm's contributions and investment strategy in the African critical mineral sector.
The Critical Minerals Africa 2024 summit on November 6-7 serves to position Africa as the primary investment destination for critical minerals. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energy 2024 conference on November 4-8, offering delegates access to the full scope of energy, mining and finance leaders in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.
Absa is a major player in Africa's critical mineral industry, providing direct financing to project developers, while supporting critical mineral mining projects through long-term PPAs. The institution is arranging a $120 million debt facility to support platinum group metal (PGM) mining firm Pensana's (https://apo-opa.co/4fTeBZo) strategy to achieve first PGM production in South Africa by 2025. Absa also partnered with French financial services firm Société Générale in March 2023 to raise $130 million in funding to support PGM and chrome-producer Tharisa (https://apo-opa.co/46HEd76) with its mining operations in South Africa.
Absa has positioned itself as a key driver of environmental social governance (ESG) and skills and capacity building within Africa's critical mineral sector as the global mining industry prioritizes environmental sustainability and local content development. In May 2023, Absa closed a $562.4 million sustainability-linked green bond for mining firm Harmony Gold, enabling the company to expand production and reduce its carbon footprint at its gold and copper projects across Africa. As such, Webber is expected to use the CMA 2024 platform to highlight how Absa is driving ESG projects across Africa's critical mineral sector.
“Companies like Absa have positioned themselves as key enablers of Africa's critical mineral industry growth by simplifying access to capital for project developers. As demand for Africa's energy transition metals grows and global markets prioritize environmental sustainability, the capital and ESG expertise provided by Absa will be crucial,” stated Rachelle Kasongo, Project Director at CMA 2024 organizer Energy Capital & Power.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
Lamola to use economic diplomacy to tackle poverty and unemployment
International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, has pledged that his department will use economic diplomacy to tackle the underlying challenges of poverty, inequality, and unemployment in South Africa.
“I look forward to working with all of you in the seventh administration to make international relations more accessible to every South African. International relations is not abstract, it affects us in our everyday lives,” he said on Monday.
Lamola was speaking during a media briefing where he was updating the public on his programme and topical issues.
He also emphasised the consistent goal of achieving a more just and equitable African continent and world.
“DIRCO’s [Department of International Relations and Cooperation] work is crucial in realising this grand vision every day. We have reassured everyone that there will be continuity in foreign policy, aligned with the Government of National Unity's (GNU) vision.”
He told journalists that parties in the GNU have agreed to work together to address the nation’s most pressing challenges.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa indicated in his inauguration speech that the parties have committed to pursuing a foreign policy based on human rights, solidarity, and peace.
“They will also promote multilateralism for a fairer, more equal, just, and compassionate world.”
In addition, he said the GNU was committed to the well-being and professional growth of the team, encouraging them to take advantage of learning and development opportunities provided by the department.
Other issues
On Israel, he said South Africa “strongly” condemns the attack on a school turned shelter for displaced Palestinians in Gaza that has killed more than 100 people, including women and children.
This is after the Israeli military claimed its air force on Saturday struck a “command and control centre” that “served as a hideout for Hamas terrorists and commanders” at Al-Tabaeen school.
However, the department said they had not provided evidence to qualify the harming of defenceless civilians in its dangerous escalation.
“South Africa is gravely concerned at the continuous targeting of schools, hospitals, medical infrastructure, and holy sites that are a source of shelter and protection for the civilian population who bear the brunt of the inhumane attacks in the Gaza Strip.”
The Minister said South Africa continues to maintain that there is no legal, ethical, or moral justification for the bombardment of non-combatants and destruction of civilian sites.
Lamola called on the international community to act decisively against this deliberate attempt to derail the ceasefire negotiations and the unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe due to the ongoing violations of international law.
“South Africa once again calls on the United Nations to deploy a rapid protection force to protect the civilian population from further bombardment.”
He also welcomed the ceasefire agreement between the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, which Angola facilitated.
In addition, he said South Africa was monitoring developments in Venezuela following the recent elections.
Lamola has welcomed that President Nicolás Maduro was declared the winner and reaffirmed South Africa’s support for the people of Venezuela to self-determination without the interference of external forces. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 09:35