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SAPS makes strides in crime fighting operations

Location: News

SAPS makes strides in crime fighting operations

Police Minister Bheki Cele says combating crime through decisive police action and robust community involvement remains at the heart of policing in the country.

“We all can agree that crime is [at unacceptable] levels and communities have called on the SAPS [South African Police Service] to respond to their crime concerns,” Cele said.

Addressing media on the Police Take Down Successes of Police Counter Operations in Pretoria on Sunday, Cele said in the past few of days, SAPS has intercepted armed and dangerous gangs, who have left a reign of terror and fear in their wake.

“A group of 11 youngsters terrorising the community of Mariannhill in KwaZulu- Natal was intercepted, and nine were shot and killed during the arrest,” Cele said.

Cele said over 20 would-be cash-in-transit (CIT) robbers in Witbank, Mpumalanga, were also stopped in their tracks through coordinated responses by the police and private security.

“Five of the suspects were killed during gunfire exchange with police in their attempt to evade arrest. Eight of CIT robbers were arrested and another nine managed to escape.

“There is no doubt that these criminals and many others are ruthless and arrogant. Their actions demonstrate that they will eliminate anything and anyone that stands in their way.

“Criminals have waged a war on communities and are so brazen, they are testing the authority of the State by attacking police officers,” Cele said.

Cele said police remain unapologetic in their aggressive and decisive response to crime.

“This Ministry remains in full support of police work that results in safer communities. We will forever welcome the arrest of criminals and for them to have their day in court.

“But criminals are warned that if they engage the police instead of surrendering themselves; they will come out short.

“We are clear police will continue to protect communities and push back hard on criminality. Not on our watch will we allow criminals to walk all over communities and certainly not the country’s law enforcement,” Cele said.

Cele said the SAPS Crime Intelligence Division has been rejuvenated and bolstered to identify and infiltrate syndicates.

He said intervention units and tactical response teams of the SAPS continue to be capacitated.

“The Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigations and overall detection of organised crime is sharper than ever. The combination of all these policing services is decisively responding to crime especially to violent and serious crime.

“Without an ounce of hesitation, officers on the ground will protect their lives and preserve the lives of innocent community members when the need arises,” Cele said.

He said takedowns by the police are not isolated and are not coincidental.

“They are as a direct result of reliable and strong intelligence coupled by sharp tactical readiness of police units who are trained to neutralise any threat and protect lives,” he said.

According to Cele, from April 2023 to date, 1 171 intelligence-led takedowns were conducted by the SAPS.

To date, 3 749 suspects have been apprehended during intelligence-led takedowns. These include 173 for murder, 57 for extortion and kidnapping, 164 for property-related crimes and 269 for vehicle-related crimes.

Cele said 768 suspects have been arrested for possession of illegal firearms.

“Four hundred and eighty-eight and 79 suspects were arrested for robberies and CIT robberies, respectively; 1 510 drug-related and 214 illicit mining arrests were made from April to date during intelligence-led takedowns,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 04/07/2024 - 11:16

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Records on offer as top runners confirm targets for Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

Location: MyPR

With a lineup featuring both world-class performers and South Africa’s top athletes, the 2024 Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K promises to be a record-breaking event on Sunday, 7 April. As the fastest athlete in the women’s field, Diana Chepkorir will be making her South African debut. The Kenyan is aiming to improve on the …

Read moreRecords on offer as top runners confirm targets for Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

Kenya’s Langat and Chepkorir secure victory at Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

Location: MyPR

Kenya’s Vincent Kibet Langat and Diana Chepkorir claimed top honors in the men’s and women’s races, respectively, at the 2nd annual Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K on Sunday, 7 April 2024. Langat boasted a winning time of 28:01 and Chepkorir 31:15. At the age of 37, veteran South African top runner Elroy Gelant is …

Read moreKenya’s Langat and Chepkorir secure victory at Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

City of Cape Town employs EPWP workers to inspect fire hydrants

Location: News

City of Cape Town employs EPWP workers to inspect fire hydrants

The City of Cape Town has introduced a new project employing Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers to inspect fire hydrants and refer damaged or obstructed hydrants for further action.

The project is creating work opportunities, while also helping to reduce risks to life and property throughout the city.

There are approximately 57 803 fire hydrants along the city’s approximately 10 000km road network that supply water for fire emergencies. In many areas, these hydrants are routinely vandalised or obstructed by unapproved building work.

A total of 26 job seekers have been recruited to assist with inspections of fire hydrants, as part of the Hydrant Project, while a further five recruits with matric and a valid code B driver’s licence are being contracted as EPWP drivers/supervisors. All recruits were sourced from the city’s Jobseekers' Database.

Hydrant workers receive on-the-job training from handymen and their supervisors, whereas drivers/supervisors benefitted from a smart driving course to help strengthen their CVs for possible future employment opportunities within the city.

All beneficiaries on the project were also sent to fire safety awareness training.

"Considering the possible dire consequences if fire services teams reach the scene of a fire to find the hydrant has been vandalised or built over, this project is a great example of the major value EPWP workers and projects can bring to the city.

“I would like to commend those who conceived of this project, as it manages to provide a valuable service at an affordable cost, while at the same time, providing a lifeline to job seekers,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, Grant Twigg.

How to register for EPWP job opportunities

Interested persons, who would like to be considered for EPWP work opportunities, can register on the Jobseekers’ Database at their local sub-council office.

They are advised to bring a copy of their CV, ID or a valid South African work permit and proof of residence. EPWP beneficiaries are randomly selected from this database.

For more information, contact the EPWP help desk on 021 400 9406 or email epwp.help@capetown.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 04/07/2024 - 12:37

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DWS commends water entity for outstanding service delivery

Location: News

DWS commends water entity for outstanding service delivery

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo has applauded Siza Water, a water service provider in the iLembe District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, for outstanding provision of water services in the district for the past 25 years.

Mahlobo was speaking during the anniversary celebration of the South African Water Works (SAWW) company, Siza Water, which took place on Friday in Zimbali.

“I cannot understate the significance of Siza Water's commitment to local empowerment and transformation.

“As a 100% South African-owned water utility, with the majority shareholder, South African Water Works, which is also majority black-owned, Siza Water embodies the spirit of inclusivity and socio-economic development.

“Proudly managed by South Africans, particularly from previously disadvantaged groups, Siza Water has become a beacon of hope, demonstrating that diversity is not just a buzzword but a cornerstone of sustainable growth and prosperity,” said Mahlobo.

Mahlobo lauded the achievements of the water utility received over the years, such as being recognised as the Best Performing Water Service Provider in 2014 through the Department of Water and Sanitation’s Blue Drop Certification Programme, to receiving the prestigious Wilson Award of Excellence from the Water Institute of South Africa between 2010 and 2018, amongst others. 

Mahlobo said Siza Water has consistently raised the bar for operational efficiency, environmental stewardship and service delivery.

“Siza Water's innovative approach to wastewater management, exemplified by the design, construction, and operation of a state-of-the-art direct reuse plant, underscores its dedication to sustainability and resource conservation,” he said.

With two Green Drop Awards and commendations from the Department of Water and Sanitation for its exemplary sewer systems management, Siza Water has set a benchmark for environmental responsibility and public health protection.

Mahlobo said beyond the realm of awards and accolades, Siza Water's impact extends far and wide, touching the lives of communities and individuals across South Africa.

“We have experienced this through the strategic investments exceeding R725 million over the past 25 years. Siza Water has not only facilitated uninterrupted development but also created hundreds of job opportunities, empowering local communities and driving socio-economic progress,” he said.

Mahlobo reaffirmed the water sector’s commitment for collaboration, innovation and sustainability, with emphasis placed on collaborative work, leveraging on collective expertise and resources to address the challenges of water scarcity, climate change, and social inequality. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 04/07/2024 - 14:03

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Operation Shanela nets over 500 000 suspects

Location: News

Operation Shanela nets over 500 000 suspects

Police Minister Bheki Cele says 551 506 suspects have been arrested for various crimes across the country since May 2023 when Operation Shanela was introduced.

“Over 500 000 suspected criminals have been removed from society  and brought before the courts to answer for their alleged crimes,” Cele said.

Addressing media in Pretoria on Sunday on the Police Take Down Successes of Police Counter Operations , Cele said police on the ground are each week pushing back on crime through high density operations in identified high crime areas across the country through Operation Shanela.

“Officers in all nine provinces, led by the respective Provincial Commissioners, have conducted almost 70 000 (69 468) high density crime prevention and combating operations in the last 11 months,” Cele said.

The countrywide high-density operations have resulted in the arrest of 8 563 suspected rapists and 6 045 murder suspects.

“[A total of] 4 410 suspects have been arrested for attempted murder. Police officers have arrested 63 573 assault GBH [grievous bodily harm] suspects and 37 333 suspects accused of common assault.

“[A total of] 41 191 suspects have been arrested for the Contravention of the Immigration Act and were found to be in the country illegally, [while] 16 073 drunk drivers were taken off our roads and arrested through various roadblocks and stop-and-searches during simultaneous countrywide operations.

 “[A total of] 2 819 illegal miners involved in illicit mining were also caught and taken through the court processes,” Cele said.

Under operation ‘Vala umgodi’, a multidisciplinary operation involving various government departments such as the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, 3 298 illegal miners were arrested.

Cele said 1 028 hijacking suspects have been arrested over the past 11 months and 3 670 suspects were nabbed and face business burglary charges, while a further 10 743 suspects were arrested for breaking and entering into houses.  

“Working jointly with local, provincial and national traffic police and other sister departments, the focus of Operation Shanela remains the prevention of crime,” the Minister said.

Over 150 suspects shot and killed by police

Cele said over 150 suspects were shot and killed from April 2023 to date.

This figure, according to Cele, includes the September 2023 fatal shooting of 19 cash-in-transit (CIT) suspects in Makhado, Limpopo, who engaged in a gun battle with police instead of surrendering.

Cele said while it is the aim of the police to arrest suspects, some heavily armed suspected criminals choose to engage the police in a gun battle and police respond accordingly.

“Police have and will come out on top during these takedowns. In April 2023, 10 heavily armed CIT-related robbers were shot and killed during a confrontation with police in Sebokeng in Gauteng province,” Cele said.

He noted that the kidnapping of members of the public and influential individuals, as well as businesspersons, remains a concern.

“The responses by the police to this crime is, however, encouraging and sizable inroads are being made,” he said.

The Minister said the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) has arrested 62 suspects involved in kidnappings for ransom from April to date.

“Police operations have also led to the arrest of 55 suspects for the kidnapping of Chinese nationals in the country. Five suspects have been arrested for their role in the kidnapping of Mozambican nationals.

“The DPCI has also undertaken significant takedown operations targeting various criminal syndicates in the past 11 months.

“These operations have resulted in the interception of 14 identified targets across a range of illicit activities including theft, fraud, drug trafficking, money laundering and contraventions of financial regulations.”

Assets, with an estimated value of R6.2 million, were seized from April 2023 to date. Sixteen drug labs, with drugs valued over R161 million, were also shut down during this time.

Additionally, 20 suspects were apprehended in connection with drug-related offences.

Cele said in separate operations targeting narcotics, led by the DPCI, drugs valued at over R506 million were taken out of circulation and 148 suspects were apprehended through policing operations.

“Added to the work of the DPCI, the Organised Crime Unit -- within the Detectives of the SAPS -- conducted numerous multi-disciplinary takedown operations focusing on drugs. Illicit substances such as mandrax, cocaine, heroin and magic mushrooms, with an estimated street value of R121 700 000, were seized,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 04/07/2024 - 12:16

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April marks major milestone in South Africa

Location: News

April marks major milestone in South Africa

Deputy President Paul Mashatile says the month of Aril is a very important month in the country's calendar because it marks Freedom Month, as well as an incredible milestone of 30 years of democracy.

“This month offers us an opportunity to reflect on the progress made thus far in transforming our society, while also examining our challenges,” Mashatile said.

Addressing the Muslim Judicial Council Iftar Dinner in Rylands in Cape Town on Friday, Mashatile said although government has made great strides since 1994, inequality, poverty, and unemployment remain major obstacles to South Africa's national unity and social cohesion.

“We should be in one accord in addressing the remaining challenges that threaten our society's social fabric,” the Deputy President said.

Mashatile said South Africans should unite as they did when they fought apartheid, and when political leaders stray from their objectives, religious leaders should steer them in the right direction to make the country better.

He commended the role played by the Muslim community in building the country.

“Muslims have played an important role in shaping South Africa's history, a role that has continued to this day.

“They fought selflessly for the freedom we have today. Let us reciprocate our forefathers' selflessness with kindness and humility and replicate their spirit of fighting for the good of others.

“Let us do good deeds to improve one another’s health and wellbeing. Let us do good to provide shelter and a meal to the homeless. Let us do good by keeping young people out of the streets and providing them with quality education,” Mashatile said.

He further commended the leadership of the Muslim Judicial Council for their dedication to education in the community by offering excellent education in their schools.

“By prioritising skills development, you empower people and provide them the opportunity to make important contributions to our country.

“Furthermore, by promoting social cohesion, you lay the groundwork for a society in which mutual respect and understanding serve as the foundation for all relationships,” the Deputy President said.

Mashatile urged urge all other religious communities to engage in charitable work and community service, benefiting not only their members but society as a whole.

“We must unite as a society to help the less fortunate, support those in need, and foster a culture of compassion and generosity.

“These acts of service promote inclusion and caring communities. Through such religious communities, we are also able to instil moral values such as forgiveness and respect for others, therefore strengthening our moral compass.

“We urge the Muslim community to continue to advocate for social justice and human rights and to lead movements for equality, dignity, and freedom, empowering people to speak out against injustices and fight towards a more equitable world order,” Mashatile said.

He encouraged every South African to actively participate in acts of kindness, volunteer their time and resources towards uplifting communities and promoting social cohesion. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 04/07/2024 - 10:14

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President Ramaphosa in Rwanda

Location: News

President Ramaphosa in Rwanda

President Cyril Ramaphosa is in Kigali, Rwanda, to attend the 30th commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

This year, Rwanda marks 30 years since the Genocide against the Tutsi, which began on 7 April 1994 and lasted for 100 days, leading to more than a million deaths of mainly ethnic Tutsis.

Every year, on this date, the government of Rwanda hosts an official ceremony to mark the beginning of the 100 days of commemoration.

The ceremony of remembrance will take place in Kigali today.

President Ramaphosa will participate in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, followed by the National Commemoration ceremony, which will conclude with a Night Vigil at BK Arena in Kigali.

On arrival in Kigali on Saturday, President Ramaphosa had a bilateral meeting with President Paul Kagame.

Bilateral relations between South Africa and Rwanda were established in 1995, which were further strengthened through the signing of a General Cooperation Agreement in 1999.

Since the inauguration of the Joint Cooperation Commission in Pretoria on 22 June 2001, significant progress was recorded in areas such as institution and capacity building, health and education. South African companies have also invested in Rwanda. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 04/07/2024 - 09:26

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President Ramaphosa undertakes a Working Visit to the Republic of Rwanda

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa will today, 06 April 2024, undertake a visit to the Republic of Rwanda to attend the 30th Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

This year, Rwanda marks 30 years since the Genocide against the Tutsi which began on 7 April 1994 and lasted for 100 days, leading to more than a million deaths of mainly ethnic Tutsis. Every year, on this date, the government of Rwanda hosts an official ceremony to mark the beginning of the 100 days of commemoration.

The ceremony of remembrance will take place in Kigali on Sunday, 7 April 2024. President Ramaphosa will participate in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, followed by the National Commemoration ceremony, which will conclude with a Night Vigil at BK Arena in Kigali.

Bilateral relations between South Africa and Rwanda were established in 1995, which were further strengthen through the signing of a General Cooperation Agreement in 1999. Since the inauguration of the Joint Cooperation Commission in Pretoria on 22 June 2001, significant progress was recorded in areas such as institution and capacity building, health, and education. South African companies have also invested in Rwanda.

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor will  accompany the President.

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

Read morePresident Ramaphosa undertakes a Working Visit to the Republic of Rwanda

Globeleq to build Africa’s largest standalone battery energy storage system in South Africa

Location: Business

British High Commission Pretoria
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UK company Globeleq, the leading independent power company in Africa, today announced that its Red Sands project in the Northern Cape has been awarded Preferred Bidder status in South Africa's Energy Storage Capacity Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (ESIPPPP). Globeleq is majority-owned by British International Investment (BII), the Development Finance Institution of the UK Government.

Battery storage is an essential enabler of renewable-energy generation, and the market for these systems is growing rapidly in South Africa and worldwide as a means of resolving energy crises and tackling climate change. These systems provide reliable power supply on demand, even when the energy grid is unstable, overcoming the challenges of intermittent wind and solar sources. They store energy at times of excess generation so that it can be released into the grid when generation falls short of demand, helping to mitigate the need for load-shedding.

Experts say that widespread energy storage is vital to expanding the reach of renewables and speeding the transition to a carbon-free power grid - this is key to helping reduce South Africa's reliance on fossil fuels as it seeks to transition to clean energy. This R5.7 billion (US$300 million) investment therefore represents a flagship project financed by the UK as part of its commitment under the Just Energy Transition Partnership agreed at COP26.

The Red Sands project is in the Northern Cape, about 100km southeast of Upington, and was originally developed by African Green Ventures, a South African renewable project development company owned by Norwegian based energy firm Magnora ASA. The project will cover approximately 5 hectares (12 acres) and will connect to the grid through the Eskom Garona substation. The substation will be upgraded by the Red Sands project to ensure that full network support capabilities of the project's batteries can be utilised.

Working closely with leading global battery and balance-of-plant suppliers, Globeleq estimates that the project will require an investment of approximately US$300 million and will take 24 months to construct after financial close, which is expected in 2024.

Globeleq is the largest independent power produce in Africa, providing nearly 1,800 MW of energy in South Africa, Mozambique, Kenya, Tanzania, Cote d'Ivoire, Egypt and Cameroon. Globeleq is a UK company based in London and backed entirely with Official Development Assistance (UK aid).

Red Sands will be Globeleq's first Battery Energy Storage Solutions (BESS) project in South Africa but the Group owns and operates a combined solar and BESS plant at Cuamba in Mozambique, and is developing BESS projects across the African continent. Globeleq also owns and operates 8 renewable plants (6 solar PV, 2 wind) in South Africa with a total generating capacity of 384 MW.

Mike Scholey, Globeleq's CEO commented:

"I am delighted that we have received Preferred Bidder status for this very important project, and I look forward to working with the government and our partners to take Red Sands to financial close and into operations. Electricity storage is going to be key not only in helping South Africa meet its considerable industrial and domestic demand for energy but also across Africa as more renewable energy projects benefit from the advances our industry has made with BESS technology."

British High Commissioner to South Africa, Antony Phillipson said:

"This is a significant investment in South Africa's future. The UK is proud to play such a vital role in helping to tackle the energy crisis with new technology that will bring power supply stability and most importantly support South Africa's ambition to reduce carbon emissions."

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of British High Commission Pretoria.

Read moreGlobeleq to build Africa’s largest standalone battery energy storage system in South Africa

Newly launched terminal a symbol of resilience

Location: News

Newly launched terminal a symbol of resilience

President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed the newly opened Newlyn Park Bayhead Rail Terminal as a symbol of South Africa’s recovery following the challenging COVID-19 pandemic and the country’s resilience in the face of challenges.

The President launched the terminal in Durban on Thursday.

“The completion and launch of the Newlyn Park Bayhead Rail Terminal project at the Port of Durban is not only a much-needed boost to South Africa’s logistics infrastructure network. This terminal is also a symbol of recovery and resilience. For the city of Durban, for the eThekwini Metro, for KwaZulu-Natal, and for the country at large,” he said.

President Ramaphosa reflected on the “worst public health disaster in modern times in the form of COVID-19” which forced South Africa and the entire globe into lockdown to contain the spread of the virus.

“As we were just emerging from the pandemic’s shadow in 2021, parts of our country, notably KwaZulu-Natal, were the scenes of deadly unrest and an unleashing of violence, arson and mayhem that caused loss of life and cost our economy approximately R50 billion. Then, just a year later, in 2022, KwaZulu-Natal was one of the provinces that experienced devastating floods.

“We all recall seeing the images of the damage to the Port of Durban at the time…especially in and around Bayhead Road, we saw much damage. We know the extensive work and effort it took to restore operations and to get the port and its associated infrastructure up and running again.

“These were all significant setbacks…that could have knocked us down, that could have prevented us from moving forward and that could have made us to give up.

“We can all be immensely proud of what has been achieved here, and of the persevering, pioneering South African spirit that this new terminal embodies. It also illustrates what can be achieved when government and business work together,” the President said.

Fruition

The Newlyn Park Bayhead Rail Terminal is a fruition of a commitment made during the South African Investment Conference (SAIC) in 2019.

Reflecting on the investment commitment Newlyn has made into South Africa, President Ramaphosa recalled that at SAIC 2023, Newlyn further pledged R4 billion into the “development of a near-zero dust emission manganese back- of-port storage and handling facility project at Coega, as well as in a similar facility for iron ore at Saldanha Bay”.

The President emphasised that the terminal represents a “good model” of what can be developed when government and private sector work together.

Partnership

“The terminal has been built on land leased from Transnet and the partnership with Newlyn will assist in improving operational efficiency right across the board. This precinct will address some of the challenges we have been experiencing in the logistics, infrastructure and network industries that have had a negative impact on economic growth and the creation of jobs.

“In order for this rail terminal project to deliver full benefits to South Africa for the purpose that it was designed, it has to have trains and slots to be made available to clients. This will lead to a significant increase in revenue for Transnet and Natcor Corridor through the migration of cargo from road to rail,” he said.

The project has injected some R 3.4 billion in investment and created some 4 013 direct construction jobs.

“More than 1000 employees are currently employed full time in this facility and this number is expected to grow as the facility handles more cargo. Much of the material that has gone into [building the terminal] has been sourced locally and many of those who participated in setting this facility up were also local providers.

“Upgrading local port infrastructure is critical to the success of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area and this new terminal will facilitate the swift movement of goods from South Africa to the rest of the continent and, indeed, beyond,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 04/04/2024 - 14:54

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KPMG bursary specialist arrested for theft, fraud and money laundering

Location: News

KPMG bursary specialist arrested for theft, fraud and money laundering

The court case of KPMG bursary specialist, Fidelis Moema, has been postponed to 9 April 2024 for formal bail application.

This after Moema, who faces charges of theft, fraud, and money laundering, appeared at the Palm Ridge Commercial Crimes Court on Tuesday, 2 April 2024 after he handed over himself to the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crimes Investigation team in Johannesburg.

According to a statement from the South African Police Service (SAPS), Moema is accused of misdirecting funds intended for bursary recipients between 2021 and 2022.

“Instead of paying university fees on behalf of students, the accused would pay the money into the bank accounts belonging to friends and individuals who own companies. The money would then be paid back into his personal bank account,” police said in a statement.

As per the SAPS statement, Moema's fraudulent actions led to the audit firm suffering a loss of R16.5 million. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 04/05/2024 - 11:13

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Rugby’s Pathway to Africa’s Future

Location: Sport
Rugby Africa

By President of Rugby Africa, Herbert Mensah (www.RugbyAfrique.com).

Saturday April 6 marks International Day of Sport for Development and Peace. As we reflect on this day, it is crucial to explore the potential impact of sport in Africa. The African Development Bank projects that Africa is set to grow to 2.4 billion people by 2050. Therefore, prioritizing an investment in human potential is crucial, as it will define the future of the continent. Africa can harness the power of sport to champion human potential, serving as a tool to drive the African continent towards greatness for generations to come.

Sport serves as a universal language, through popularity it can transcend cultural, social, economic and political barriers. This year's theme: ‘Sport for the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies' holds particular relevance in Africa. The impact of sport has the power to unite individuals, bringing joy to participants and spectators alike. Yet the true power of sport, lies in its ability to transform societies. South Africa's Springboks, fourth time Rugby World Champions, are a testament of the unifying influence of Rugby. During the 2023 Rugby World Cup, the entire African continent united in support of South Africa on the global stage, highlighting a collective passion to celebrate and develop talent emerging from the continent itself. Whether on the field or pitch, the power of sports is visible. It fuels economic development through the flourishing sports tourism industry. It empowers youth by instilling positive values. It champions gender equality, breaking down barriers and eradicating stigma. It fosters social inclusion, promoting tolerance and easing tensions in divisive environments.

The African Development Bank reports that Africa will remain the world youngest region, with a median age of 25. An investment in the youth is crucial for the sustainability of Africa, as a prosperous Africa paves the way to peace. Within the realm of sports, Rugby emerges as unique pathway to empower the youth. Anchored in values of teamwork, unity, integrity, passion, solidarity and discipline, Rugby serves as cornerstones for personal and professional development with enduring impact. Ultimately, early exposure to sports will prepare the youth of Africa to become leaders and ambassadors of positive change in their communities. It is our duty to equip the next generation to not only navigate the challenges of uncertainty and competitiveness but to thrive amidst them, fostering a brighter future for Africa and inspire generations to come.

In a society marked by divisions, sport cultivates an inclusive landscape. The passion for the games takes priority, differences are not seen as obstacles, but rather as opportunities for greatness. Rugby's embrace of diversity, turning differences into strengths has the powerful impact of breaking down the societal norms that women are often subjected to. For example, the South African women's national rugby team, where players exhibit a remarkable 33 cm height differential from the shortest to the tallest player, and a significant 61 kg weight gap separates the lightest from the heaviest members. When compared to the realm of football, the contrast becomes even starker. The South African women's national football team boasts a considerably more consistent size and shape among its players, with a mere 12 cm height range and a modest 27 kg weight variance. This inclusivity cultivates a sense of unity and belonging that transcends borders and celebrates the diversity of humans, nurturing a sense of self-worth, fostering long term empowerment, while creating lifelong friendships.

Beyond social impact, sport can function as a powerful catalyst for economic growth and international dialogue. Through strategic investments in sports infrastructure and competition frameworks, we forge the way for economic opportunities, generating employment and awakening local economies in host nations. Sports tourism emerges as a magnet, drawing travellers from around the globe with the economic purchasing power to experience Africa's diverse and rich cultural heritage. It acts as a unifying force, fostering connections among people of different backgrounds and nationalities. As enthusiasm for sports grows, it not only attracts local spectators but ultimately attracting attention on regional and national stages. This shared love for sports becomes a platform for cultural exchange, promoting understanding and appreciation for diverse perspectives. In this way, sport serves as more than entertainment; it is bridge that connects people and creates ties to the community, fostering unity and collaboration.

Aligning with the pursuit of the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals, Africa has the opportunity to tap into the transformative power of sports, acting as a key to unlock the full potential of the continent. This can only be achieved if governments take local action and assume accountability to harness the full potential of Rugby in reducing inequality, empowering the next generation and igniting a new age of inclusivity. We must collectively drive change, recognizing that investing in Africa's future is our shared responsibility. This calls for collaboration among all stakeholders, with a long-term commitment to funding, policy development, infrastructure enhancement and the advancement of competition structures. On this International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, let us not only embrace the power of sports to reshape our societies but let us actively engage on unleashing it. Sport possesses the remarkable ability to positively impact our world, a source of hope, uniting people in ways that few other forces can achieve.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.

Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com

About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women's rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 39 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.

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Markham Takes SAMW!

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

April 6th marks the much-anticipated South African Menswear Week, the sole official platform in Africa dedicated to the advancement of menswear. It promises an impressive line-up of collections, discussions, and after-parties. This season is shaping up to be one to remember, and here’s everything you need to know about what’s in store. Markham kicks off …

Read moreMarkham Takes SAMW!

Sparks set to fly in Modified Saloon Car category at 2024 Simola Hillclimb

Location: Sport

Five-time King of the Hill winner and reigning champion Franco Scribante to face intense onslaught once again from rivals, including 2023 runner-up Reghard Roets Addition of new class for street-legal tuned or modified cars further broadens the appeal and interest in this thrilling event 14th edition of the Simola Hillclimb takes place in Knysna from […]

Read moreSparks set to fly in Modified Saloon Car category at 2024 Simola Hillclimb

Daybreak Farms (Pty) Ltd Planning a R250-million ($13 million) Debt Deal

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg, 04 April 2024 : Daybreak Farms Pty Ltd, a leading South African poultry producer, is planning a R250-million ($13 million) debt deal to stabilise the company and further optimise its operations and balance sheet. This deal follows the recent and successful restructuring programme and the appointment of the new C-suite. Led by Richard Manzini, …

Read moreDaybreak Farms (Pty) Ltd Planning a R250-million ($13 million) Debt Deal

Daniel Emslie and Louise Lepront win the Rip Curl Cup, and Lepront wins the Rip Curl GromSearch title, along with Josh Malherbe

Location: MyPR

East Beach, Port Alfred – A decrease in swell and a wind switch to offshore southwest made for some small but clean and highly contestable conditions for the final day of surfing in the Rip GromSearch and the Rip Curl Cup. Both events were presented by the Royal St Andrews Hotel and supported by Sea …

Read moreDaniel Emslie and Louise Lepront win the Rip Curl Cup, and Lepront wins the Rip Curl GromSearch title, along with Josh Malherbe