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Gauteng’s Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are receiving vital support to boost their businesses through a transformative six-month Exporter Competitiveness Programme (ECP) initiative introduced by the government, aimed at propelling them forward. SMMEs that have been operational for a minimum of two years within the manufacturing, agriculture, and agro-processing sectors, are urged to seize …
Access to education remains a barrier for many South African children within the rural areas, with limited transport being one of the hurdles to overcome. However, for some 30 to 40 senior high school pupils on the KZN lower South Coast, their future has been made brighter with the donation of bicycles by NPO managed …
Condolences for Tony Heard
President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to distinguished journalist, acclaimed editor, and former special adviser in the Presidency, Tony Heard.
Heard died at the age of 86 late last month following a short illness.
“Tony Heard was brave in his resistance to apartheid and was an influential thought leader who challenged the conscience and beliefs of South Africans who benefited from apartheid. He deployed significant newsroom resources to expose the brutality of the apartheid state and to portray the everyday suffering of oppressed and impoverished communities.
“In so doing, he mobilised and nurtured a generation of journalists who took a clear stand on critical issues in the country and scurried between typewriters and teargas to give a voice to those whose pleas and outcries were muzzled and repressed by the state,” the President said.
On Heard’s contribution to journalism, President Ramaphosa said he “inspired quality journalism which enriched the profession and media audiences alike and contributed to the inevitable momentum that led to our freedom.”
“We value the contributions he made as well as a senior advisor to government in his later years. May his soul rest in peace”.
Heard is survived by his partner Jane Porter and his children Vicki, Janet, Pasqua and Dylan.
Meanwhile, the South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) referred to Heard as a “titan of journalism.”
“With heavy hearts, SANEF mourns the passing of a doyen of a conscientious journalist whose contributions to the field left an indelible mark on South Africa and beyond,” it said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 04/04/2024 - 08:36
President concludes courtesy visit to Eswatini
President Cyril Ramaphosa concluded a visit to the Kingdom of Eswatini on Wednesday.
The courtesy visit was held by His Majesty King Mswati III in Lozitha, Eswatini.
“On arrival in the Kingdom of Eswatini, the President first paid a brief visit to the Queen Mother, Her Majesty iNdlovukazi, before proceeding to meet with His Majesty the King,” the Presidency said in a statement.
According to the statement, the two discussed the “historical bonds” of the two Southern African nations.
“The two leaders affirmed their commitment to strong historical bonds between their two countries, including growing political and trade ties.
“They also highlighted the historical success of collaboration between the two countries, where the two leaders collaborated to work together for a better future,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 04/04/2024 - 08:44
JOHANNESBURG: As the inaugural Cricket South Africa (CSA) Professional Women’s Domestic League approaches its thrilling conclusion, only one round of matches...
POLOKWANE: An electrifying 151-run opening partnership between Ryan Rickelton and Reeza Hendricks paved the way for the DP World Lions to...
South Africa condemns attack on consular section building in Damascus
South Africa has condemned Monday's attack at its consular section building of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the Syrian Arab Republic.
“The South African government views any attack on a diplomatic or consular establishment as a flagrant violation of international law that offers protection to diplomatic as well as consular representatives in a host State,” International Relations and Cooperation spokesperson Clayson Monyela said on Wednesday.
Monyela said the principle of protection of diplomatic and consular premises and staff constitutes a basic principle of International Law, which is required for the orderly conduct of relations between states.
“An attack of this nature, therefore, should be a matter of concern for the whole international community. Further, the attack was a violation of Syria’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, which must be respected and upheld,” Monyela said.
The South African government conveyed its condolences to the families of the victims, as well as the government and people of the Islamic Republic of Iran following the attack. According to reports, 13 people were killed in the attack.
South Africa has called on the United Nations, including the United Nations Security Council, to hold to account those who are responsible under the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, as well as the 1961 Convention on Diplomatic Relations, the 1963 Convention on Consular Relations and the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Internationally Protected Persons of 1973.
The country has also urged all parties to exercise restraint and not to exacerbate regional tensions. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 04/04/2024 - 09:44
Numerous waiver letters contain incorrect information
Mathe Group’s Hammarsdale facility, which recycles approximately 1 000 radial truck tyres per day to produce 45 tons of rubber crumb, is a pivotal export hub. Although many of its products are distributed internationally, the innovative rubber flooring solutions which helped establish this growing company in the first place, continue to highlight its global reach …
Johannesburg, South Africa, 2 April 2023 – A story of resilience and reinvention takes centre stage as South African communications powerhouse, JT Communication Solutions, celebrates its 20th anniversary on April 1st, 2024. Founded by Vanessa Perumal, a resilient business trailblazer and cancer survivor who defied the odds, JT Comms remains the first Black woman-owned communications …
EAST LONDON: Chamari Athapaththu’s destructive half-century, combined with Harshitha Samarawickrama’s unbeaten fifty, propelled Sri Lanka to a momentous four-wicket victory, securing...
Join a Free Workshop for SMEs in the CTFL Sector The journey for most South African Small, Medium Enterprises (SMEs) is fraught with challenges, with a staggering 75% failure rate* – one of the highest in the world. Even the most promising ventures struggle to survive beyond their first five years. Kyle Ballard, Head of …
We sent questions to the ANC, DA, EFF, IFP, FF Plus, ActionSA, PA, MK Party and RISE Mzansi
The South African Government wishes to convey its condolences to the families of the victims as well as the Government and people of the Islamic Republic of Iran following the attack on the consular section building of its Embassy in Damascus, the Syrian Arab Republic.
The South African Government views any attack on a diplomatic or consular establishment as a flagrant violation of international law that offers protection to diplomatic as well as consular representatives in a host state.
The principle of protection of diplomatic and consular premises and staff constitutes a basic principle of International Law, which is required for the orderly conduct of relations between states.
An attack of this nature, therefore, should be a matter of concern for the whole international community.
South Africa calls on the United Nations, including the United Nations Security Council, to hold to account those who are responsible under the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter as well as the 1961 Convention on Diplomatic Relations, the 1963 Convention on Consular Relations and Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Internationally Protected Persons of 1973.
Further, the attack was a violation of Syria's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity which must be respected and upheld.
South Africa urges all parties to exercise restraint and not to exacerbate regional tensions.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
Fintech Wave: Navigating fintech challenges amid growth. By Mpho Matsitse, Executive: Business & Digital Advisory Fintech’s impact on the financial services industry is multi-faceted, reshaping how financial services are delivered, accessed, and experienced. It encourages innovation, promotes competition, and drives efficiency, benefiting consumers and businesses by providing more options, lower costs, and improved fiscal management …
On 2nd and 3rd May, 2024 – Zimbabwe Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Hon. Prof. Mthuli Ncube and Mr Tafadzwa Chinamo, the CEO of Zimbabwe Investment Development Agency (ZIDA) will host an investment summit at the Radisson Hotel, Kempton Park, near OR Tambo International. The summit theme “People you can invest in” …
KZN gaming sector collects R724m for service delivery
The KwaZulu-Natal Gaming and Betting Board has collected a revenue of more than R724 million for service delivery, with more than 11 600 jobs being created for the citizens in the province.
KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) MEC, Siboniso Duma, revealed this during the 15th Gambling Regulators African Forum (GRAF) Conference, currently underway at Sibaya Casino in Durban.
The annual conference, which is attended by over 500 international and national delegates, offers a unique opportunity for regulators to exchange knowledge, collaborate on regulatory challenges, and shape the future of the African gambling industry.
Hosted by the department’s entity, KwaZulu-Natal Gaming and Betting Board, this year’s conference taking place from 2 - 5 April 2024, is held under the theme, “Fostering Unity Towards a Coordinated Gaming Regulatory Framework for Africa”.
In his opening address on Wednesday, Duma emphasised the importance of the gaming sector in the province’s economy, noting that the industry invests more than R2 billion in the province.
Duma said the money has been allocated for various service delivery programmes, including roads construction; houses; and ensuring the provision of quality education, health, welfare services, water, and electricity.
“Companies that are involved in the gaming and betting sector have invested more than R2 billion towards the development of their facilities here in KZN. This has helped create jobs and stimulate other sectors of the economy such as tourism and construction.
“Importantly, through our entity, we regulate horseracing events such as the Durban July which is now called Hollywood Bet [which] has always been the country’s biggest race for years with more than R4.5 million in prize money and turnover of R140 million,” Duma said.
He added that various sectors of the economy have been benefiting for years with thousands of temporal and permanent jobs created.
Duma noted that due to COVID-19, jockeys have lost approximately R6.5 million monthly, including riding fees and winning stakes. The trainers have also lost approximately R3 million a month with their business reduced by 20%.
The MEC commended the stakeholders for working together to ensure the turnaround of the situation.
“The horse racing industry in general contributes around R3 billion to the country’s GDP and about R800 million in taxes every year. The contribution of the industry to the local economy is R905 million [and] we want this contribution to increase year-on-year.
“We are also moving with speed to unleash talent in deep rural areas through traditional racing events, such as Dundee July and Umtelebhelo. These have become major events in the annual calendar which have attracted more than 70 000 tourists,” Duma said.
Duma said government is also working jointly with licenses to transform the horse racing industry.
“Hollywood Sportsbook Group and Gold Circle have collaborated with government in supporting grooms within the horseracing industry. We want to see young people becoming horse owners, horse trainers, horse breeders, jockeys, veterinarians and grooms.
“We wish to acknowledge this contribution not only here in KZN but in other provinces and neighbouring countries. It is my view that this investment is an indication that gaming and betting Industry was a mature and well-established industry before COVID-19,” Duma said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 04/03/2024 - 15:23
Qualifications obtained from deregistered colleges remain valid
The Department of Higher Education and Training has reassured that the qualifications from four Educor institutions, issued or obtained during the period of registration and during the phase-out period, remain valid and recognised.
The announcement by Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, to cancel the registration of City Varsity (Pty) Ltd, Damelin (Pty) Ltd, Icesa City Campus (Pty) Ltd and Lyceum College (Pty) Ltd comes after the instutitions failed to submit proof of their financial viability to the department.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Nzimande noted that as the regulator of both public and private higher education in South Africa, the department was mindful of the potential impact that the decision to cancel the registration of the colleges might have on the ability of students to complete their qualifications.
Nzimande said in making the decision, the department considered the potential impact on students.
Nzimande assured the qualifications issued or obtained during the period of registration and during the phase-out period remain valid and recognised.
This assurance was also communicated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
“This means that the four Educor colleges -- City Varsity (Pty) Ltd, Damelin (Pty) Ltd, Icesa City Campus (Pty) Ltd and Lyceum College (Pty) Ltd -- still have an obligation to award the students their qualifications during the period of registration and during the phase out period.
"The four Educor colleges are also required to ensure that they conclude the remaining examinations or assessments for the remainder of the current academic year,” Nzimande said.
The Minister reiterated that the department is willing to assist in helping to mitigate the impact on students.
In line with the Minister’s commitment, through its directorate responsible for the registration of private higher education institutions, Nzimande said the department is currently handling queries from students, many of whom have expressed their frustration with the lack of communication and unresponsiveness from the four Educor colleges.
“The department wishes to restate that the decision to cancel the registration of City Varsity (Pty) Ltd, Damelin (Pty) Ltd, Icesa City Campus (Pty) Ltd and Lyceum College (Pty) Ltd still stands,” Nzimande said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 04/03/2024 - 10:42
SANDF dismisses claims that South African soldiers have 'surrendered' to M23 rebels
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has refuted reports claiming that two South African soldiers deployed as part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) have surrendered to M23 rebels.
According to a statement released on Wednesday, this misinformation was found in various media reports, including the National Security News.
The same publication went further to report that the SANDF soldiers are now being held as hostages by M23.
“We want to state categorically that all SANDF members deployed in the DRC have been accounted for.
“The convoluted article published by the faceless Washington correspondent is dismissed with the contempt it deserves. This is not the first time such unfounded and baseless news articles have been written about the SANDF since its deployment in the DRC under SAMIDRC,” the SANDF said.
The SANDF soldiers are part of SAMIDRC deployed to support and assist the government of Africa's second-largest country to restore peace, security and stability.
“We view such attempts to discredit the Defence Force in the most serious light by faceless people, and will not stand and allow its good name to be tarnished.
“The SANDF, as the authority for the deployed members, shall at all times inform the South African public about the situation and safety of its members in the DRC,” the SANDF said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 04/03/2024 - 10:25
Glenrose Xaba will be targeting only the second sub-32-minute 10km of her career when she lines up for the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K this coming Sunday, 7 April 2024. Xaba was the first South African home, placing 4th overall in a then personal best time of 32:23 in the inaugural Absa RUN YOUR …
EAST LONDON: Proteas Women seamer Tumi Sekhukhune underscores the team’s motivation to build momentum and secure a convincing series victory against...
Program to provide STEM and problem-solving skills to students across continent; Students to compete for chance to attend major regional industry conference; Aims to develop the next generation of African thinkers and workforce.
The ExxonMobil Foundation and JA Africa have launched the "ExxonMobil STEM Africa” initiative, a $300,000 program to promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) for approximately 3,000 African students across Nigeria, Namibia, Angola and Mozambique.
The program will prepare middle and high school students for future STEM careers through immersive quizzes and hands-on experiences at Innovation Camps. The camps, delivered by JA Africa, will teach new approaches to addressing STEM-related challenges.
“Growing students' STEM skills is key in developing the next generation of problem solvers across Africa,” ExxonMobil Foundation President Alvin Abraham said. “We're excited to see how these young minds apply what they've learned through our program.”
Teams who present the best STEM solutions will represent their countries at a major regional industry conference in Cape Town, South Africa. Students will gain cross-cultural exposure, learn about energy from a global perspective and showcase their ideas while connecting with industry leaders.
“In an era where technology and innovation propel the global economy forward, Africa's position at the forefront of technological advancements is crucial for maintaining competitiveness and sustainable development,” said JA Africa President and CEO Simi Nwogugu. “We are grateful to the ExxonMobil Foundation for this partnership to nurture STEM competencies to shape Africa's future."
To learn more about the program, visit https://ExxonMobilSTEMsAfrica.org/
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of JA Africa.
About ExxonMobil Foundation:
The ExxonMobil Foundation is the primary philanthropic arm of Exxon Mobil Corporation in the United States. The Foundation engages in a range of philanthropic initiatives in areas where the company operates around the world, with a strategic focus on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education.
About JA Africa:
As one of Africa's largest and most impactful youth-serving NGOs, JA Africa delivers hands-on, immersive learning in work readiness, financial health, entrepreneurship, sustainability, STEM, economics, citizenship, ethics, and more. JA Africa has a presence in 16 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and collectively we reach more than 900,000 youth in more than 3,000 schools each year. JA Africa Works in Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, DRC, Eswatini, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Learn more at www.JA-Africa.org.
Amidst South Africa’s dynamic service sector, Snupit stands out as a leading online marketplace app, seamlessly linking customers to local service professionals. Collectively, businesses on Snupit have been able to generate over 1 billion rand through the platform, a testament to its effectiveness in driving business growth and sustainability. Businesses that have mastered the art …
President Ramaphosa to unveil KZN terminal and Tetra Pak Manufacturing plant
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to officially open the Newlyn PX Terminal and the Tetra Pak Manufacturing plant in KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday as part of South Africa’s investment drive.
These entities made pledges through the South African Investment Conference, an initiative led by President Ramaphosa with the ambitious goal of attracting R1.2 trillion in investments over five years.
“The multi modal rail terminal in Bayhead next to the port of Durban pledged R2 billion for the development of the largest multi modal rail terminal in Africa and has completed the last phase of the development exceeding the initial pledge by R2.6 billion.
“The entity has over the last 26 years demonstrated its commitment as well as significant financial, technical and human resource development in developing transformational logistics infrastructure along the country’s major trade corridors,” the Presidency said in a statement.
Furthermore, the terminal is considered a leading development for logistics.
“The terminal has also been recognised as [a] flagship development expanding the logistics capacity of the country as well as enhancing global competitiveness as part of the critical NATCOR trade corridor linking Johannesburg to the port of Durban.
“The development will further facilitate an integrated ecosystem yielding benefits to freight owners, Transnet and logistics service providers. This will also accelerate government’s objective of migrating of cargo from road to rail,” the statement read.
The Presidency highlighted that in 2022, the Tetra Pak Group invested more than R500 million in the manufacturing plant in KwaZulu-Natal. Tetra Pak is the world’s leading food processing and packaging company with a presence in more than 155 countries.
“Post the investment, the manufacturing plant is now the only state-of-the-art facility in Africa producing carton asceptic packaging for the domestic market and Africa export; meeting standards of sustainability; supporting a circular economy and propelling industrial growth.
“These investments will form a critical industrial base for South Africa’s recent commencement of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), for export opportunities,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 04/02/2024 - 09:19