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You are here: Home / Archives for African

African

24 April 2024

The responsibility of freedom

Location: MyPR

*Prof Mias de Klerk is the Director of the Centre for Responsible Leadership Studies (Africa), at Stellenbosch Business School. This year we celebrate 30 years of democracy, the freedom for all citizens as equals and the end of a despotic government in which only some were free. However, through the years it appears that there …

Read moreThe responsibility of freedom
24 April 2024

Open Call: For Women in Science South Africa National Young Talents Programme

Location: MyPR

The Foundation L’Oréal, in partnership with UNESCO, is excited to announce the sixth edition of the Women in Science Young Talent Search in South Africa. This initiative calls for outstanding female researchers under the age of 40 from diverse scientific fields—including Formal Sciences, Life Sciences, Environmental sciences, Physical sciences, Engineering and Technological sciences.to apply. The …

Read moreOpen Call: For Women in Science South Africa National Young Talents Programme
24 April 2024

FicSci 03 Creative Writers Workshop: Applications Now Open

Location: MyPR

The South African Research Chair in Science Communication (SciCom) is pleased to announce that applications for the third iteration of the FicSci creative writing intensive workshop are now open. The workshop is set to take place from 9-12 July 2024 in Stellenbosch, South Africa, and aims to explore the intersection of scientific innovation and creative …

Read moreFicSci 03 Creative Writers Workshop: Applications Now Open
23 April 2024

M&A Activity in South Africa expected to remain muted in 2024 amidst global economic headwinds and regulatory uncertainty

Location: MyPR

Chris Green, Managing Partner, Hogan Lovells SA M&A activity in South Africa declined sharply in 2023 relative to the two preceding years, in line with global trends. The factors driving this included, amongst others, global economic headwinds particularly high inflation and high interest rates, the well-documented geopolitical uncertainty in Europe and the Middle East, ongoing …

Read moreM&A Activity in South Africa expected to remain muted in 2024 amidst global economic headwinds and regulatory uncertainty
23 April 2024

Pandor reiterates stance on Israel

Location: News

Pandor reiterates stance on Israel

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, says South Africa cannot have "normal relations" with Israel, as long as it is committing war crimes and genocide against Palestinians, removing them from their land, and is unwilling to negotiate a viable peace plan without preconditions. 

“South Africa cannot be a party to Israel’s actions that would see the promise of Palestinian Statehood reduced to balkanised entities, devoid of true sovereignty, without territorial contiguity and with no economic viability,” Pandor said on Monday while delivering a lecture at the Rio Branco Institute in Brasilia, Brazil.

The South African government, according to Pandor, has consistently expressed its concern at the plight of Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip, especially in light of the acts meeting the threshold of genocide.  

READ | SA welcomes resolution on human rights situation in occupied Palestinian territory

Pandor said the “question of Palestine”, as it is known in the United Nations (UN), is the longest unresolved human rights challenge on the UN’s agenda. 

“It is primarily a question about the right to self-determination of the Palestinian people. This is a right that, according to international law, gives Palestinians the right to resist the illegal occupation of their land.” 

She said South Africa concurs with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’s remarks that opposition to a two-State solution was “unacceptable". 

The Minister believes that the Palestinian people are part of an existing sovereign State and have a claim to their independent sovereignty based on their right to self-determination. 

“The fact of colonisation creates this right – they have been conquered and subjected to the jurisdiction of a foreign State without their consent and are living under occupation by a foreign and oppressive occupier.

"This is the form of self-determination that is most widely accepted and which most clearly provides the right to one’s independent State,” she explained. 

Pandor said it was now more than 74 years since the UN General Assembly approved Resolution 181 (II) recognising the partitioning of Palestine and proposed establishing two independent States, which were supposed to coexist in peace and harmony. 

“Despite the length of time and efforts brought to bear, the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian State is yet to become a reality.

“The most serious violation of human rights has involved the denial of the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination. This is a right enshrined in the UN Charter,” she stressed. 

Pandor raised concerns about the political solution, which is "not yet in sight". 

“The relentless military operations by Israel and its genocidal acts have aggravated the humanitarian situation in Gaza. 

“The extreme nature of the crisis in Gaza must not eclipse the fact that the West Bank and East Jerusalem are in turmoil. Since the 1993 Oslo Accords, the number of illegal Israeli settlers occupying Palestinian land has increased from 269 200 at that time to 700 000 today.” 

Meanwhile, the number of Palestinians held in Israeli jails has almost doubled to over 7 000, including 200 women and children as young as 12 years old. 

According to the Minister, the conflict has seen the killing of over 33 000 Palestinians since October 2023.

The ongoing bombardment of Gaza by Israel has resulted in more civilian casualties, almost half of which are children, the Minister told her audience. 

She also raised an alarm about the threat of famine, which is imminent with disastrous consequences. 

“Those engaged in active warfare must be reminded that the targeting of civilians, humanitarian workers, journalists and UN personnel, destruction of houses and other civilian infrastructure is illegal under international law.” 

Pandor is of the view that South Africa made a compelling case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). 

In January this year, the ICJ ruled that Israel’s actions in Gaza are plausibly genocidal and indicated provisional measures on that basis. 

READ | SA stands by decision to file lawsuit against Israel

She also took a swipe at the veto power wielded by individual States, which she said she believes cannot be permitted to thwart international justice in light of the ever-worsening situation in Gaza. 

South Africa, Pandor said, is gravely concerned about the unprecedented imminent military offensive against Rafah, which she said would result in further large-scale killing, harm and destruction. 

“South Africa reiterates its call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and remains committed to seeing an end to the occupation of Palestine and calls for concrete action concerning ending the Apartheid system in Israel and Palestine.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 04/23/2024 - 10:38

651 views
Read morePandor reiterates stance on Israel
23 April 2024

Deputy Minister Botes hosts Spanish counterpart for Bilateral Consultations

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation
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The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, hosted the State Secretary for Foreign and Global Affairs of the Kingdom of Spain, Mr Diego Martínez Belío, on 23 April 2024. Deputy Minister Botes and State Secretary Martínez Belío co-chaired the 15th Session of the South Africa-Spain Bilateral Consultations. South Africa's bilateral relations with Spain are managed through the Bilateral Consultations, which meets annually at the Deputy Minister level.

The Official Visit to South Africa enhanced the already strong relations between South Africa and Spain. This visit highlighted the existing cooperation between the two countries and reviewed the progress and implementation of existing agreements.

The meeting deepened engagement and discussions in the areas of mutual interest to both countries, particularly in trade and investment, education, science and innovation, climate change and renewable energy, as well as human rights, migration and women, peace and security.

Bilateral trade between South Africa and Spain grew by 9.7% from $3.1 billion in 2022 to $3.4 billion in 2023. In 2023, Spain was South Africa's 18th trading partner globally and fifth largest trading partner in the EU. During the same period, South Africa was Spain's second largest export destination and seventh largest source of imports on the African continent. South Africa's exports to Spain grew by 12.8% from $1.41 billion in 2022, to $1.77 billion in 2023.

Over the past ten years, there has been steady investment in South Africa by Spanish companies. The bulk of the investment is in the renewable energy sector. South African companies have also looked to Spain as an investment destination in the Real Estate sector. More than 150 Spanish companies have invested in South Africa creating over 20,000 jobs, largely in the following sectors: Infrastructure Development, Renewable Energy, Financial Services, Tourism, Textiles, IT & Software, Metals, and Mining.

Spain also remains a strategic European tourism market for South Africa. There has been a slight recovery in terms of tourist arrivals from Spain for the periods 2022 and 2023. Tourist arrivals increased by a total of 8 716 between the above-mentioned years, from 23 304 in 2023 to 32 020 in 2024. This is a positive indication of inbound travel slowly returning to pre-pandemic levels as far as this market is concerned.

The recent various high-level engagements between South Africa and Spain symbolise the commitment by both countries to promote a better and more equitable world to benefit the people of both countries.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Read moreDeputy Minister Botes hosts Spanish counterpart for Bilateral Consultations
23 April 2024

Greater Evaton water safe for consumption, says Rand Water

Location: News

Greater Evaton water safe for consumption, says Rand Water

Rand Water has assured residents that the contamination which affected the quality of drinking water in the Greater Evaton area has been resolved and tap water is now safe for consumption.

The water contamination affected the quality of drinking water in Palm Springs, Zone 7 Sebokeng, Beverly Hills, Sonder Water, Graceland, Lakeside Zone 3, Zone 6, Small Farms, and Evaton North and West in Emfuleni Local Municipality.

In a joint statement, Rand Water and the Emfuleni Local Municipality said an investigation into the water contamination was launched following complaints from the communities on 28 and 30 March 2024, respectively. 

The team was led by experts from the municipality and Rand Water and included engineers, scientists and operational specialists who focused their investigation on identifying the root cause of the contamination. 

The investigation revealed that the contamination was due to leaking sewerage pipes which seeped into the drinking water pipes. 

“Both the sewerage and drinking water pipes were replaced, and the drinking water pipes were disinfected to remove all traces of the contamination. Once the water pipes were flushed, drinking water in the affected areas was taken for testing and analysis at Rand Water ISO 17025 accredited laboratory. 

“On 17 April 2024, the scientists at Rand Water laboratory achieved the third consecutive microbiological results confirming the preliminary results which revealed that the water quality has been restored to the acceptable South African National Standard (SANS) 241 standards for drinking water,” Rand Water said.

SANS 241 is a drinking water specification that states the minimum requirements for potable water to be considered safe for human consumption.

Rand Water noted that during the process of fixing pipes and water testing, roaming water tankers were distributed to ensure that affected communities have access to clean water. 

These water tanker services will be withdrawn from areas in Greater Evaton. 

“Rand Water as the bulk water services provider and the ELM as the Water Services Authority wish to assure communities that both institutions continue to be committed to providing quality drinking water that complies with all the requirements of SANS 241 standards,” the entity said.

Arrest suspects commended

Meanwhile, Rand Water has commended the arrest of suspects in connection with the murder of Rand Water Executive, Teboho Joala and his personal protector, Sifiso Shange during a back-to-school event held at Zakariyya Park on 29 January 2024.

The three suspects were arrested last week and appeared at the Lenasia Magistrate's Court in Johannesburg on Monday.

The accused are facing two counts of premeditated murder and three counts of attempted murder charges.

The case was postponed to 29 April 2024 for bail application.

“Rand Water commends the swift action taken by the South African Police Service in investigating the matter and welcomes the arrest of individuals suspected of this brutal act which resulted with the loss of lives of our executive and his personal protector.

“Rand Water is still mourning the loss of Teboho Joala and Sifiso Shange and will continue to observe the proceedings and developments in this case, hoping that the perpetrators will be prosecuted successfully,” the entity said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 04/23/2024 - 11:13

287 views
Read moreGreater Evaton water safe for consumption, says Rand Water
23 April 2024

Surf & Turf Adventures Await on KZN South Coast

Location: MyPR

While some people enjoy relaxing by the seaside or splashing in the waves on holiday, others prefer to keep their feet on terra firma, exploring nature reserves, farmlands, or golfing greens. Of course, there are also those who like the best of both worlds, and they’ll find exactly what they’re looking for on the KZN …

Read moreSurf & Turf Adventures Await on KZN South Coast
23 April 2024

Unveiling ALX Ventures: The Catalyst For A 21st Century African Entrepreneurship Revolution!

Location: MyPR

In a bold move to accelerate Africa’s entrepreneurial trajectory and empower a new generation of agile startups with 21st-century digital capabilities, ALX an award winning tech training and career acceleration provider, announces the rollout of ALX Ventures in South Africa (SA). Already launched in two other African markets, Lagos and Rwanda, the first cohort in …

Read moreUnveiling ALX Ventures: The Catalyst For A 21st Century African Entrepreneurship Revolution!
23 April 2024

CSA Announces 2024 Emerging Academy Intake

Location: Sport

JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has today announced the intake for the 2024 CSA Emerging Academy. The Emerging Academy, formally known...

The post CSA ANNOUNCES 2024 EMERGING ACADEMY INTAKE first appeared on Cricket South Africa.

Read moreCSA Announces 2024 Emerging Academy Intake
23 April 2024

President Cyril Ramaphosa wishes South African Jewish community Chag Sameach

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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Pesach is a celebration of freedom, and commemorates the liberation of the Jewish people from slavery. 

President Ramaphosa said: “The Jewish community is an important and deeply valued part of our diverse society. As we reflect on the story of Exodus, let us take this moment to appreciate the freedoms we enjoy and commit ourselves to the value of Tikkun Olam, healing the world.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read morePresident Cyril Ramaphosa wishes South African Jewish community Chag Sameach
23 April 2024

Three Cape Town SAPS officers appear in court for torture of barber

Location: News

The officers were arrested on Monday, five months after Juma Igiranieza was brutally assaulted at his workplace

Read moreThree Cape Town SAPS officers appear in court for torture of barber
23 April 2024

Minister Pandor co-chairs the VII Session of the South Africa-Brazil Joint Commission

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation
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The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Minister Pandor, will co-chair the VII Session of the South Africa-Brazil Joint Commission (JC) on 23 April 2024 in Brasilia, Brazil, with her counterpart, Minister Mauro Vieira, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federative Republic of Brazil.

On 13 December 2003, South Africa and Brazil signed an agreement to establish a Joint Commission. A Declaration on Strategic Partnership and an Action Plan was signed in 2010.

The Joint Commission serves as a mechanism to monitor and facilitate the implementation of the Action Plan in several areas such as agriculture; defence; economic and commercial relations; environment; health; higher education and technical cooperation; justice and correctional services; minerals and energy; science, technology, and communications; sports, arts, and culture.

The Joint Commission is composed of 10 sectoral Working Groups (WG).

A Senior Officials Meeting was held on 10 April 2024 to review the work done by the working groups in preparation for the JC.

South Africa shares a common history and cultural heritage with Brazil's over 100 million population of African descent (African Diaspora), the second largest African Diaspora in the Americas region.

Brazil will host the Sixth Region Diaspora Conference in the state of Bahia on 20-22 May 2024 as one of the preparatory meetings for the Ninth Pan African Conference that will be held in Togo in October 2024.

South Africa and Brazil as member countries of the Global South, actively advance the developmental agenda of the South through, amongst others, the UN, IBSA, BRICS, G20, WTO, and International Financial Institutions.

Brazil is currently holding the IBSA Chair, G20 Presidency and in 2025 will chair the BRICS Plus as well as COP30. On 1 December 2023, South Africa became a member of the G20 Troika, with India and Brazil and will assume the Presidency of G20 in 2025

Brazil is South Africa's largest trading partner in Latin America and is the second largest trading partner in the Americas after the USA. South Africa is Brazil's second largest export partner in Africa.

The resumption of LATAM Airlines' and SAA's direct flights between Sao Paulo and Johannesburg in 2023 has opened opportunities to scale up tourism, trade, and people-to-people relations.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Read moreMinister Pandor co-chairs the VII Session of the South Africa-Brazil Joint Commission
23 April 2024

Smoke Customer Intelligence Announces New Leadership Appointment

Location: MyPR

[Johannesburg April 2024] Smoke Customer Intelligence, a leading provider of Customer Experience and Employee Engagement solutions, today announced a restructuring of its operations, resulting in the formation of distinct companies under the umbrella of The Smoke Group. This strategic move aims to streamline operations, enhance focus on core competencies, and drive growth in key market …

Read moreSmoke Customer Intelligence Announces New Leadership Appointment
23 April 2024

Deputy President in the United Arab Emirates for a working visit 

Location: News

Deputy President in the United Arab Emirates for a working visit 

Deputy President Paul Mashatile is undertaking a working visit to Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). 

The Deputy President arrived in the UAE yesterday and will wrap up his visit on Friday, 25 April 2024.

According to the Presidency, the UAE visit is aimed at building and strengthening bilateral relations, particularly increasing economic and knowledge exchange between the two States. 

The country’s second-in-command and his delegation will engage with experts in the telecommunications and digital economy, in line with South Africa’s goals related to expanding technological and digital infrastructure towards Meaningful Universal Connectivity. 

“Countries are moving towards digital sovereignty and South Africa, as one of the leading nations in the sector within the continent has the opportunity to spearhead initiatives in this regard towards strengthening public service delivery and enhancing participation in the digital economy. This working visit is as such, integral to building capacity towards digital sovereignty,” the Presidency explained. 

During the visit, the Deputy President will interact with the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Applications as well as other relevant national and regional entities within the UAE.

The UAE, according to the Presidency, is a competitive market for the information and communication technology (ICT) sector in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. 

The UAE public sector investment helps drive demand for Information and Communications technology (ICT) products and services in sectors such as healthcare, aviation, defence, transportation, financial services and others linked to the UAE’s economic diversification plans.

The visit by the Deputy President provides an opportunity for the South African government to increase knowledge and expertise in the ICT sector towards the improvement and expansion of public services and governance systems through digital economy channels.

International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Candith Mashego-Dlamini, Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Mondli Gungubele and Justice Minister Ronald Lamola, will accompany the Deputy President to the UAE. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 04/23/2024 - 10:56

232 views
Read moreDeputy President in the United Arab Emirates for a working visit 
23 April 2024

Deputy President Shipokosa Mashatile in the United Arab Emirates on a Working Visit

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile is undertaking a Working Visit to Dubai and Abu-Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 22 - 25 April 2024. 

The Deputy President's visit to the UAE is aimed at building and strengthening bilateral relations, particularly increasing economic and knowledge exchange between the two states. 

The visit will see the Deputy President and his delegation engage with experts in the telecommunications and digital economy, in line with South Africa's goals related to expanding technological and digital infrastructure towards Meaningful Universal Connectivity. 

Countries are moving towards digital sovereignty and South Africa, as one of the leading nations in the sector within the continent has the opportunity to spearhead initiatives in this regard towards strengthening public service delivery and enhancing participation in the digital economy. This working visit is as such, integral to building capacity towards digital sovereignty. 

During the visit the Deputy President will interact with the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Applications as well as other relevant national and regional entities within the UAE.

The UAE is a competitive market for the information and communication technology (ICT) sector in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The UAE public sector investment helps drive demand for ICT products and services in sectors such as healthcare, aviation, defense, transportation, financial services and others linked to the UAE's economic diversification plans.

The visit by the Deputy President provides an opportunity for the South African government to increase knowledge and expertise in the ICT sector towards the improvement and expansion of public services and governance systems through digital economy channels.

The Deputy President is accompanied to the UAE by Deputy Minister Candith Mashego-Dlamini - Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Minister Mondli Gungubele - Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, and Minister Ronald Lamola - Department of Justice.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read moreDeputy President Shipokosa Mashatile in the United Arab Emirates on a Working Visit
23 April 2024

Chag Sameach wishes for Jewish community observing Pesach holiday

Location: News

Chag Sameach wishes for Jewish community observing Pesach holiday

President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished the South African Jewish community Chag Sameach as they prepare to observe the Pesach holiday.

The holiday – also known as Passover – celebrates the story of the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt.

President Ramaphosa said: “The Jewish community is an important and deeply valued part of our diverse society. As we reflect on the story of Exodus, let us take this moment to appreciate the freedoms we enjoy and commit ourselves to the value of Tikkun Olam, healing the world.”

The week long observation of the holiday commenced on Monday and will end on April 30. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 04/23/2024 - 09:08

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Read moreChag Sameach wishes for Jewish community observing Pesach holiday
23 April 2024

Cabinet welcomes R2.155 trillion in tax returns

Location: News

Cabinet welcomes R2.155 trillion in tax returns

Cabinet has commended the millions of taxpayers who have filed their tax returns to help the South African Revenue Service collect tax revenue of R2.155 trillion for the 2023/24 financial year.

“This is R52 billion more than the previous year and demonstrates the robustness of the local economy, despite challenging local and international conditions,” a Cabinet statement said on Monday.

The increased revenue helps government to fund the country’s service delivery projects and other socio-economic development programmes.

Cabinet held a special Cabinet Meeting on Wednesday, 10 April 2024.

Since its inception, SARS has collected R21.6 trillion in net tax revenues. The R21.6 trillion tax collections represents a compound growth of 9.9% per year since the inception of SARS in 1997.

READ | 30 Years: reflections on SARS

This has funded the South African democracy and touched the lives of millions who would be destitute without government support and services. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:51

518 views
Read moreCabinet welcomes R2.155 trillion in tax returns
23 April 2024

Cabinet welcomes R3.4bn terminal project

Location: News

Cabinet welcomes R3.4bn terminal project

Cabinet has welcomed the opening of the R3.4 billion Newlyn Park Bayhead Rail Terminal project at the Port of Durban, which consists of 640 000 square metres of warehousing, rail sidings and open storage.

“The new terminal will facilitate the efficient movement of sea, rail and road cargo through the Port of Durban, and help address the recent challenges experienced in the logistics, infrastructure and network industries,” a Cabinet statement said on Monday.

WATCH | 

The investment resulted in 4 013 direct construction jobs and the full-time employment of more than 1 000 people, with this number expected to grow as the facility handles more cargo.

“In revitalising our country’s rail network, Cabinet also welcomed the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa’s (PRASA) successful restoration of five crucial Metrorail services across Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.

“PRASA effectively brought 31 of its 40 lines back into partial operation and is working on achieving full operational status. The milestone demonstrates government’s commitment to revitalising passenger rail services and providing an efficient public transport option for South Africans,” Cabinet said.

WATCH | Transport Minister briefs on improvements at PRASA |  Transport Minister briefs on reopened PRASA lines. 

Cabinet held a special Cabinet Meeting on Wednesday, 10 April 2024.

In a related development, Cabinet welcomed the announcement by the South African National Roads Agency that it would inject over R50 billion into road infrastructure development in the Eastern Cape.

READ | SANRAL invests R2 billion in Eastern Cape road maintenance

This infrastructure investment is geared towards the construction of new facilities, road improvements and strengthening, and special maintenance of the national road network in the province. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:59

983 views
Read moreCabinet welcomes R3.4bn terminal project
22 April 2024

Four new reports released on Open Internet approaches in Africa

Location: News

European Union External Action
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By looking at case studies in Burundi, Kenya, Senegal and South Africa, the four reports unpack Open Internet connectivity as a promoter of human-centric development. They also shed light on the crucial role of a free, global, reliable, affordable and secure internet in driving social and economic growth in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the objectives of the African Union's Agenda 2063.

According to the new reports prepared by a team of independent experts contracted by the European Commission “Digital technologies and the Open Internet are two distinct concepts that, if blended into a consistent policy approach, create a digitisation process that maximises the opportunities for social and economic growth.”

The realisation of the Open Internet's potential for locally driven growth requires a holistic approach, separate but intrinsic to the investment in technology and connectivity, that is focused on the deployment of Open Internet digital infrastructure, the development of enabling policy and regulatory environments for Open Internet, investment in Open Internet skills and competences, the creation of an Open Internet economy, and participation in Open Internet governance.

Each of the four reports serve as a roadmap for other countries and regions, for how  Open Internet approaches can create an environment that will enable and support  digital development, capitalise on its economic potential, while respecting fundamental rights and values.

As part of the EU's policy of promoting an open, free, global, stable and secure internet based on the multi-stakeholder model of internet governance, the reports build on the ideas covered in a previous report on The Open Internet as cornerstone of digitalisation. As  the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said in her State of the Union 2024 speech: “The internet was born as an instrument for sharing knowledge, opening minds and connecting people. But it has also given rise to serious challenges (…) In response, Europe has become the global pioneer of citizen's rights in the digital world.”

The reports were produced in the framework of “Promotion and Development of the Open Internet in Africa”, a project funded by the EU Global Gateway.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of European Union External Action.

Read moreFour new reports released on Open Internet approaches in Africa
22 April 2024

Loadit – Leading the Way in Moving and Delivery

Location: MyPR

Press Release: Loadit – Leading the Way in Moving and Delivery: Superior Service Meets Ultimate Convenience Johannesburg, South Africa – April 18, 2024 – Since its establishment in 2017, Loadit has emerged as a leader in the South African logistics industry, offering innovative, flexible, and cost-effective delivery solutions tailored to both individuals and businesses. With …

Read moreLoadit – Leading the Way in Moving and Delivery
22 April 2024

The Role of Education Insurance for a thriving future SA

Location: MyPR

Access to quality education remains a challenge for many, particularly in the face of financial uncertainties. In this context, education insurance emerges as a powerful tool for securing the educational journey of our children and fostering a more inclusive and prosperous society; education is the cornerstone of progress, societal advancement and economic growth. Start-up Futurewise …

Read moreThe Role of Education Insurance for a thriving future SA
22 April 2024

Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) advises on R3 billion sale of BevCo to Varun Beverages in a landmark Indo-Africa deal

Location: Business
Rand Merchant Bank

India-listed Varun Beverages Limited (“VBL”), the largest PepsiCo bottler outside of the USA and China, entered into an agreement to acquire 100% of the shares in The Beverage Company Proprietary Limited (“BevCo”). RMB (www.RMB.co.za) acted as sole financial advisor to BevCo and selling shareholders, including a Private Equity Fund managed by The Rohatyn Group (post the completed merger of Ethos Private Equity with The Rohatyn Group in April 2023) and Nedbank Private Equity, in a deal with an enterprise value of R3 billion.

BevCo, is one of the largest carbonated soft drinks producers in Southern Africa. Their portfolio consists of the recognisable brands Jive, Coo-ee and Reboost. BevCo also bottles and distributes PepsiCo-branded non-alcoholic beverages in South Africa and has five manufacturing facilities in the country, in addition to operations in Lesotho, Eswatini, Namibia, and Botswana.

“Having invested in 2017, The Rohatyn Group's Africa Private Equity team together with our partners and the management team have built a focused non-alcoholic beverage platform. We executed our original investment thesis over a seven-year period and today the consolidated BevCo is in excess of three times the size and continues to grow its market share organically. VBL brings significant resources and expertise to invest in BevCo's product offering and grow PepsiCo's brands in Southern Africa, while expanding their presence on the continent,” says Glynn Potgieter, Managing Director at The Rohatyn Group.

There are always multiple challenges with cross-border transactions, in this instance including the requirement for compliance with both the Indian Stock Exchange and South African regulations. Regulation in India required a restructure of the BevCo group as well as the transfer of its debt facilities and subsequent deregistration/liquidation of more than ten entities within the group structure. This had implications on what would normally be a standard warranty and indemnity insurance policy. The transaction showcases RMB's advisory capability in successfully navigating complex cross-border transactions and ability to access international buyers for high quality South African assets.

In addition to the corporate finance advisory role to BevCo, RMB's South African and India teams assisted with refinancing the existing debt within BevCo as well as providing incremental acquisition finance for the transaction, in addition to facilitating the flows and foreign exchange conversion for the deal. This demonstrates RMB's expertise and comprehensive solutions offering across the Indo-Africa corridor. With a footprint and expertise based both in South Africa and India, RMB can support clients on both sides of the corridor to enable seamless end-to-end transactions.

“The Indian market reacted extremely positively with VBL's share price increasing in excess of 10% and reaching an all-time high on the day the transaction was announced. The transaction represents a significant investment and an important vote of confidence in South Africa by a large global player in the sector,” says Gareth Armstrong, Corporate Finance Executive at RMB.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rand Merchant Bank.

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Rand Merchant Bank
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Read moreRand Merchant Bank (RMB) advises on R3 billion sale of BevCo to Varun Beverages in a landmark Indo-Africa deal
22 April 2024

Scrap electricity tariff hikes, demand Durban residents

Location: News

Public comment on increases for ratepayers in eThekwini closed on Friday

Read moreScrap electricity tariff hikes, demand Durban residents
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