Proteas Women Dominate Series-Opener As Wolvaardt Hits Maiden T20I Hundred
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Why Investing in Your Student Years Matters
The concept of investing might seem far-fetched while you’re still in your student years as it’s perceived to be for those with established careers and financial stability. But, knowing how to secure your financial well-being at an early age is one of the most important things you’ll ever do in life, and you don’t have …
Thinking Of Buying Your First Home? These Are The Steps To Follow
Paul Stevens, CEO of Just Property, demystifies the journey with this step-by-step guide to buying your first residential property in South Africa. Buying a property in South Africa is a significant financial commitment, and the process can feel overwhelming. The good news is that with the current market leaning in favour of buyers, it’s a …
Engen is Official Fuel Supplier to Comrades
With under 75 days to #Comrades2024 race day, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has announced that South Africa’s largest fuel and convenience company, Engen has partnered with the Comrades Marathon as the Official Fuel Supplier this year. CMA Race & Operations Manager, Ann Ashworth confirmed the partnership, saying, “It is really pleasing to see the …
Here’s how companies can support their employees’ mental wellbeing
South Africa’s workplaces are battling a silent mental health crisis and, according to Sapien Labs’ fourth annual Mental State of the World Report, South Africa has among the world’s worst mental wellbeing levels, ranking 69 out of 71 countries and with little improvement post the Covid-19 pandemic. Businesses have a critical role to play in …
PRASA committed to protecting commuters
PRASA committed to protecting commuters
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all individuals visiting its stations following a disturbing incident of a woman that was parked outside Park Station in Johannesburg.
“In light of a troubling viral video featuring a female motorist recounting a distressing experience outside Park Station while awaiting her family inside her vehicle, we urge everyone visiting our stations to park in designated areas within our station premises,” PRASA said on Wednesday.
PRASA said adequate security measures are in place to safeguard everyone visiting its stations.
The premises outside of Park Station falls under the jurisdiction of the municipality, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD).
The agency said these entities will be engaged further to strengthen security outside the station premises.
“We would also like to clarify that the designated parking inside Park Station, we do not make use of car guards. Additionally, we have Protection Services Personnel who wear distinct security apparel and not reflector jackets.
“Our Protection Services Personnel have been briefed to remain on high alert and take immediate action in response to any suspicious activity, following our established security protocols. Ensuring the safety and security of our passengers, employees, and patrons are of outmost importance to us,” PRASA said on Wednesday. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 03/27/2024 - 14:22
270 views
SA Legend Arno Carstens
SA Legend Arno Carstens Bands At The Beach Port Alfred Easter Festival, Port Alfred, 29 March – 1 April Tickets at QUICKET Arno Carstens, the iconic South African rock star, is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry, his relevance enduring through decades of musical evolution. Coolness exudes effortlessly from his persona, …
Smart Home Forecast: What’s in store for 2024?
Nowadays, the phrase ‘home is where the tech is' defines modern living, as South Africans increasingly (https://apo-opa.co/3TSowVR) adopt smart home innovations. These advancements are continuing to adapt and evolve in their capabilities which not only improve convenience and security but can also decrease energy consumption, contributing to cost savings.
This is according to Dr Andrew Dickson, Engineering Executive at CBI-electric: low voltage (www.CBI-LowVoltage.co.za/), who says that, in 2024, homes will become even more high-tech in terms of the efficiency, functionality, and personalised living experiences they provide. “We may still be a few years away from homes resembling those dreamed up by sci-fi movies, but we are already heading in the direction of smart technology becoming less of a luxury and more of a staple in modern homes.”
Below, he shares four trends that will help make South African homes smarter this year:
- Improved Internet Speed: In the early part of the year, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) will hold another auction (https://apo-opa.co/43wkAO1) for radio frequencies including 5G. What the rollout of more 5G will mean for smart homes is lightning-fast internet speeds, instantaneous communication between devices, and the ability to connect even more gadgets within a smart home ecosystem for seamless integration and control. It will also allow for greater stability and reliability which will prove particularly useful when it comes to monitoring and controlling critical systems remotely in real time. Ultimately, the rollout of 5G is poised to elevate the capabilities of smart home technologies, making them even more intelligent and efficient.
In addition, WiFi-7 is set to roll out in the country this year which will improve internet connectivity to devices in the home, extend range and promises to deliver nearly five times the speed of Wi-Fi 6. This, however, is also reliant on the release of more spectrum and regulatory approvals.
- Incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI): Leveraging its data analysis and processing capabilities, AI discerns user patterns, utilising these insights to anticipate and implement homeowners' future decisions and choices. By integrating AI into smart home devices, these products can learn and adapt to a user's habits and preferences, optimising efficiency, intuitiveness, and responsiveness. Consequently, homes become attuned to the unique needs and preferences of their inhabitants. A practical illustration of this is a smart lighting system employing AI to automatically adjust the lighting throughout the entire home in accordance with the time of day or the user's activities. AI will also assist homeowners who may not be tech-savvy by offering them the opportunity to implement advanced automation with their smart devices without the need for manual programming.
In the future, generative AI will make smart homes even smarter. Soon, these tools will not only help to identify appliances that require preventative maintenance but also set up appointments with service providers for their upkeep based on the homeowner's schedule and availability.
- Smarter security: Technological innovations are becoming increasingly incorporated into various smart home security systems. Take, for example, the evolution of smart locks, which are now activatable through various interfaces such as fingerprint recognition, PIN codes, voice recognition, and phone apps. Blockchain is also set to play a crucial role in fortifying smart home security systems, rendering them more resilient and resistant to potential hackers. Additionally, AI has the potential to analyse residents' behavioural patterns, promptly notifying homeowners and their security companies if there are deviations or unusual activities within the premises.
- Energy optimisation: Anticipating a 20,200MW (https://apo-opa.co/43CvWQp) energy shortfall in 2024, homeowners are turning to smart home technologies like those in the CBI Astute Range (https://apo-opa.co/43yQJEu) of products to monitor and manage energy consumption. These technologies collect and analyse vast amounts of data, helping users identify areas for improvement. Plus, automation can assist them in adjusting their usage, even when they're not at home.
Additionally, as more South Africans embrace rooftop solar (https://apo-opa.co/3IUS6DT), smart technology enables the effortless integration of renewable energy sources to combat the impacts of load shedding while also ensuring that the power produced is used effectively and efficiently.
“In 2024, smart homes will become sanctuaries of innovation, enriching the lives of South Africans and heralding a future where homes understand, adapt and even pre-empt the unique needs of their residents," concludes Dr Dickson.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CBI-electric: low voltage.
For more information, go to https://CBI-LowVoltage.co.za or follow CBI-electric: low voltage on Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3vvHgRW), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/43Cr9hY), LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/4atY8Y6), X (https://apo-opa.co/4aw8czw), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/3VBbqxv) or YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3IWb2Ce).
About CBI-electric: low voltage:
- Established in 1949, CBI-electric: low voltage is a manufacturer and supplier of quality low voltage electrical distribution, protection, and control equipment. Previously known as Circuit Breaker Industries or CBI, the company specialises in the design, development, and manufacturing of circuit breakers, residential current devices, surge protection, wiring accessories, and metering products.
- Head quartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, the company is a subsidiary of renowned JSE listed industrial group Reunert (https://www.Reunert.co.za/), with international operations across Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and USA.
- CBI-electric: low voltage can be found in almost every home and has firmly become a market leader over the last 72 years while supplying products to authorities, utilities, manufacturers, commercial property developers, industrial, mining, telecommunications, and general power distribution applications.
- In 2021, the brand launched its smart IoT (internet-of-things) home automation range, called the Astute Range.
Pension funds and emigration: Tax could be the make-or-break factor
Investing in an offshore retirement fund is one way of growing your wealth in a stable economy over the longer term, or even gaining residency in a foreign country. However, for South Africans, this scenario presents as many challenges as it does opportunities, and should only be considered after consulting with a financial adviser and …
South African projects seize opportunity to tackle climate crisis and create jobs
The businesses were chosen from 173 applications following a rigorous selection process. The chosen projects come from the energy, transportation, agriculture, forestry and other land uses, circular economy and water sectors.
The businesses concerned will receive tailored one-to-one and group support from financial, technical and gender equality and social inclusion experts to help increase their chances of securing finance from South African and international investors. For the first time, two separate cohorts have been created to trial providing capacity building to promising early-stage projects.
So far, almost a third of projects from the first two phases of CFA South Africa have found investment since participating in the programme.
British High Commissioner to South Africa, Antony Phillipson said:
"South Africa has a huge number of companies and organisations with innovative ideas on how to tackle climate change. Support provided to these projects will help them secure investment, deliver green growth and jobs and contribute to South Africa meeting its climate commitments."
The 10 core cohort projects will undertake intensive capacity building before pitching to investors at an event in July, which early-stage projects will also be invited to attend.
The 5 projects selected in the early-stage pilot will have the opportunity to attend elements of the core capacity building training and will be encouraged to share their experiences with members of the core cohort, who may act as mentors.
CEO of the National Business Initiative (NBI), Shameela Soobramoney said:
"NBI believes that identifying and supporting innovative, low carbon companies across key green economy sectors is not just a strategic initiative, but a moral imperative. These companies represent the vanguard of progress, offering solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing our country and the globe."
"Initiatives like CFA illustrate how targeted support, collaboration, innovation, and unwavering dedication can pave the way for a brighter, greener future for generations to come. If we don't create the future we want, the one we get will be worth infinitely less."
CEO of GreenCape (GC), Michael Mulachy said:
"Food systems, rare earth metal beneficiation, storage, e-mobility, waste and sanitation are all featured in this year's CFA finalists. This incredible cohort have solutions to some of the most pressing green economy challenges globally."
"Each finalist has found its niche in South Africa and has the potential to scale up rapidly – creating much needed jobs and investment in South Africa's green economy. The CFA programme has been an incredibly effective launch pad for these innovative green companies and GreenCape is eager to see the impact of this cohort."
The 10 core cohort projects are:
- Charge - catalysing the decarbonisation of the transport sector by installing 120 off-grid, green-powered, ultra-fast charging stations for passenger and light delivery vehicles. Located approximately 150 km apart, this first phase of installations covers South Africa's major highways and regional routes (18,200 km).
- Creslow Energy Solutions - renewable battery manufacturer based in Mpumalanga. The energy storage solution is aimed at leisure, commercial and industrial markets (battery packs are suitable for small to medium factories and shopping malls), as well with specialised solutions provided for the mining sector.
- Cultura Fresh - expanding the existing successful hydroponic vegetable business to meet persistent excess demand. Cultura Fresh is currently the largest supplier of leafy greens in Western Cape. This expansion will create jobs and boost food security.
- EWaste Africa - expanding EWaste Africa's existing offer of storing, collecting, transporting and end-of-life management of e-waste by diversifying into reuse, refurbishment and repair of e-waste (electrical, electronic, solar and lighting equipment waste) and increasing recycling facilities for hazardous e-waste.
- Loowatt - providing high-quality ‘Kalula' home toilets to customers in urban neighbourhoods that lack adequate sanitation access.
- Manganese Metal Company - constructing a 5,000 ton per annum manganese sulphate monohydrate (MSM) plant, to be located in Mbombela. MSM is a key ingredient in electric vehicles batteries.
- MycoSure - addressing sustainable food production by developing mycelium-based submerged biomass fermentation technology to produce alternative protein and nutraceutical ingredients at scale.
- Nambu - turning food ‘waste' into high value insect protein for livestock and pet feed - including dog kibble, liquid based feed additive and a basic ruminant feed - as well as pelletised frass (fertiliser),
- SOCO CAPITAL - a spin off from an Engineering Procurement and Construction company, now an Independent Power Producer delivering comprehensive solutions, including fully funded solar PV (Power Purchase Agreement) and battery offerings available for rental.
- Valternative Energy - bringing next-generation clean energy solutions to the e-mobility sector in South Africa with electric bikes, smart batteries and swap stations.
The 5 early-stage cohort projects are:
- Aquagel - Regenr8 is addressing climate change through food security. Regenr8 does this by offering organic bio-stimulant that disrupts the chemical fertiliser industry and stores CO2 in the soil for hundreds of years.
- Breev - Breev has a vision of an EV charger in every town in Africa and currently aims to expand EV charging along 980,000 km of roads in South Africa and Kenya, doubling mobility options and reducing environmental impact.
- React - enhancing access to recycling services and ethical standards by setting up decentralised micro material recovery facilities in low-income areas, integrating informal waste reclaimers as operators, and providing them with access to recyclables and eco-friendly transportation.
- Smartfill - connected smart dispensers enabling consumers to accurately fill any container with the quantity of dry food they need, eliminating plastic packaging.
- Solarfi - is set to connect 5 million individuals by distributing more than 500,000 innovative lantern-routers, delivering both internet and lighting to off-grid communities and driving progress through sustainable technology.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of British High Commission Pretoria.
World Cup Focus Takes Centre Stage Ahead Of T20I Series Against Sri Lanka
BENONI: In the build-up to the exciting T20 International (T20I) series against Sri Lanka, Proteas Women captain Laura Wolvaardt laid out...
Quick Facts: Rip Curl GromSearch and Rip Curl Cup Port Alfred
Quick Facts: Rip Curl GromSearch and Rip Curl Cup Port Alfred presented by The Royal St Andrews Hotel and supported by Sea Harvest, are two of the anchor events of the Port Alfred Easter Festival, along with the Bands At The Beach Music Fest. These events will occur in Port Alfred over Easter, 29 March …
Call for inclusivity in efforts to grow biodiversity economy
Call for inclusivity in efforts to grow biodiversity economy
President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that previously disadvantaged individuals and communities must be at the centre of efforts to fully harness the benefits of the biodiversity economy.
“We must put rural communities at the centre of every decision making process, and ensure we are empowering and equipping them for the new opportunities in the biodiversity sector,” President Ramaphosa said on Tuesday in Boksburg.
Addressing the Inaugural Biodiversity Economy and Investment Indaba, the President called on industry, finance institutions, philanthropies, civil society and traditional leaders, healers and practitioners to collectively embrace government’s vision for a transformed biodiversity economy.
“For us to fully harness the benefits of the biodiversity economy, we have to understand its scope and breadth. Work is underway to develop Natural Capital Accounting for the biodiversity sector.
“This is being done through a partnership between the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Statistics South Africa and the South African National Biodiversity Institute. This initiative will ensure that the contribution of the biodiversity sector, including its entire value chain, is formally recognised.”
He said today, sustainable use of biodiversity is a pillar of rural economies across South Africa, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs.
Beneficiation
“Sustainable biodiversity use also contributes to urban economies. For example, traditional medicine markets exist in nearly every major urban centre in South Africa.
“The trade in indigenous medicine plants is a multi-million-rand industry that supports jobs and livelihoods across the value chain. As a country, we have been firm that communities must benefit in a tangible manner when plant and animal species are harvested for commercial gain,” the President said.
He mentioned that Rooibos as a product is popular not just in South Africa but around the world.
“Four years ago, the first industry-wide benefits sharing agreement was launched between the South African Rooibos Industry and the Khoi and San Councils.
“This agreement has to date distributed a total amount of R28 million to the two councils in recognition of the communities’ indigenous knowledge of the Rooibos species.”
There must be tangible beneficiation in communities when indigenous plant species are harvested for commercial benefit, whether it is for medicine, cosmetics or other purposes.
“Sustainable mass cultivation of indigenous plant species must support the creation of businesses, factories and value chains that allow for end products to be exported to the rest of the continent and abroad.
“This mass cultivation can also assist land restoration and rehabilitation, as well as carbon sequestration, which is important in the context of climate change. To ensure a more holistic approach to access and benefit sharing, we are developing nurseries for the production of indigenous species, so these can be cultivated for medicinal and cosmetic purposes,” Ramaphosa said.
There are already a number of commercially successful game meat production facilities in several parts of the country.
“For many decades, fishing was the preserve of commercial enterprises only. This is something we are working hard to change. In January this year, we allocated 15-year fishing rights to the small-scale fishing sector in the four coastal provinces. We must build on this,” said the President.
Job creation
“Job creation must be at the centre of our efforts. As with our mineral resources, we cannot simply be mere exporters of raw materials so that jobs and industries can be created elsewhere. Jobs and opportunities must remain here, in South Africa, in our communities. This is what the revised Biodiversity Economy Strategy aims to address,” the President said.
He said when it comes to animal species, beneficiation must result in the establishment of community-run businesses, be they lodges or game meat butcheries and production facilities.
“We have a Game Meat Strategy that is focused on scaling economic enterprises for communities and previously disadvantaged individuals and providing land use patterns that are compatible with conservation.
“It aims to synergise our economic and conservation objectives by emphasising that a successful biodiversity economy must be linked to the restoration of ecosystems. It broadens the existing terrestrial goals and adds marine, coastal, estuarine and freshwater opportunities,” the President said.
Transformation
This strategy places the transformation of the biodiversity sector at the centre of efforts to fully harness the benefits of the biodiversity economy.
“Rural communities, disadvantaged individuals and traditional leaders must be part of devising new approaches to investment in community-owned land for biodiversity-based enterprises.
“The work to conserve and restore our biodiversity takes place as the world is experiencing the increasingly destructive effects of climate change. African countries are among the most vulnerable to the effects of a rapidly changing climate. They have to adapt and build resilience within the context of historically low levels of development and severely limited capacity,” the President said.
The Climate Change Bill, which is currently before the National Council of Provinces, seeks to enable a just transition towards a low-carbon, climate-resilient society.
“This just transition must contribute toward the creation of decent work for all, social inclusion and the eradication of poverty. A just transition puts people at the centre of decision making, especially those most affected by the transition, by empowering and equipping them for new opportunities of the future,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 03/26/2024 - 13:08
329 views
Totalsports Women’s Race expands into a month-long celebration in August 2024
South Africa’s largest Women’s Day celebration, the Totalsports Women’s Race, will triple the excitement in 2024 with the iconic event being celebrated in three major cities on three separate dates in the month of August. The festivities will begin in Durban on Sunday, August 4th, followed by Cape Town on Friday, August 9th, before culminating …
Pay your customs tax!
Pay your customs tax!
Taxpayers have been reminded to settle their tax and customs payments as well as their tax and customs debt to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) by or on Thursday this week.
“Tax payments can be made via a bank, electronic funds transfer (EFT), via eFiling or the SARS MobiApp Customs payments can also be made at any SARS customs office.
“It is important that taxpayers and traders perform the payment transaction during business hours to authorise their banking institutions to release the payment to SARS - a required step if the payment is made via eFiling and the MobiApp.
“Balance amount enquiries may be made by requesting a statement of account on eFiling or the SARS MobiApp or by SMS to SARS on 47277,” the revenue service said in a statement.
Employment statistics
Meanwhile, Statistics South Africa’s latest Quarterly Employment Statistics shows a decrease in total employment during the last quarter of 2023.
Despite this, year-on-year December 2022 to December 2023, total employment has increased.
“[According] to the report total employment decreased by 194 000 or -1.8% quarter-on-quarter, from 10 899 000 in September 2023 to 10 705 000 in December 2023. This was due to decreases in the following industries: community services -214 000 or -6.8%, construction -19 000 or -3.1%, business services -12 000 or -0.5%, manufacturing -7 000 or -0.5%, and mining -1 000 or -0.2%. However, there were increases in the following industries: trade 56 000 or 2.4%, transport 2 000 or 0.4% and electricity 1 000 or 1.6%.
“Total employment increased by 98 000 or 0.9% year-on-year between December 2022 and December 2023,” the institution said.
Fulltime employment showed an increase of some 12 000 jobs between December 2022 and December 2023 while part-time employment increased by 86 000 during the same period.
On a quarter to quarter basis, however, downturns were experienced.
“Full-time employment decreased by 5 000 or -0.1% quarter-on-quarter, from 9 498 000 in September 2023 to 9 493 000 in December 2023. This was due to decreases in the following industries: construction -13 000 or -2.4%, manufacturing -12 000 or -1.0%, community services -11 000 or -0.5%, business services -3 000 or -0.1%, and mining -1 000 or -0.2%. However, there were increases in the following industries: trade 31 000 or 1.5%, transport 3 000 or 0.7%, and electricity 1 000 or 1.6%.
“Part-time employment decreased by 189 000 or -13.5% quarter-on-quarter, from 1 401 000 in September 2023 to 1 212 000 in December 2023. This was due to decreases in the following industries: community services -203 000 or -27.2%, business services -9 000 or -3.8%, construction -6 000 or -7.8%, transport -1 000 or 5.3%. Electricity industry reported no change. However, there were increases in the following industries: trade 25 000 or 10.4%, and manufacturing 5 000 or 6%,” Stats SA said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 03/26/2024 - 14:23
302 views
CSA Announces Proteas Men And Women’s Contracted Squad For 2024/25
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has today announced the Proteas Men and Women’s contracted squad for the 2024/25 season, starting...
Gelant targets maiden Sub-28, while Kenya’s Maxon Kipngetich prepares for Absa RYC GQEBERHA 10K debut
Veteran South African distance runner Elroy Gelant has set his sights on running a maiden sub-28-minute clocking at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K on Sunday 7 April 2024. “My goal for the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K will be to run a sub-28. I’m looking forward to it. All of my training …
Egypt and the Big 5 Dominate Hotel Development in Africa
When it comes to hotel development across Africa in 2024, just five words tell the story, “Egypt and the Big 5”. In this context, “the Big 5” does not refer to Africa's major wildlife attractions, (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and buffalo) but to the global hotel chains – Accor, Hilton, IHG, Marriott International and Radisson Hotel Group. This year's African Hotel Chain Development Pipeline report, widely acknowledged as the industry's most authoritative source, documenting and analysing the number of hotels being planned and built across the continent, reports a market share of 28% for Egypt and 71% for the Big 5 global chains.
The survey, conducted by Lagos-based W Hospitality Group, in association with the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF), is based on responses from 47 global and regional (African) hotel chains, reporting on a pipeline of hotel development activity totalling around 92,000 rooms in 524 hotels, in 41 of Africa's 54 countries.
Significant trends to emerge in the past year include strong growth, over 9%, in both North and sub-Saharan Africa, an increase in very large hotels (the average size of the largest 10 hotels is 770 rooms, up from 723 rooms in 2023) and a rapid growth in resorts, up by 32% on 2023. In this respect, Zanzibar has performed particularly strongly. There, the pipeline has grown from seven resorts with 983 rooms in 2023 to 14 resorts and 2,048 rooms in 2024, a sure sign of confidence in these beautiful Indian Ocean islands.
The extent to which Egypt dominates the African hotel development pipeline each year, with almost 26,250 rooms in 109 hotels, is quite remarkable. The country's pipeline, up by 19 hotels and about 5,200 rooms in 2023, is larger than the next four countries put together. It has well over three times the number of rooms as second-placed Nigeria, which has 7,622 rooms in 50 hotels. Third-placed Morocco has 7,169 rooms in 52 hotels and Ethiopia, in fourth place, has 5,128 rooms spread across 31 properties.
There has been an extremely strong increase in the number of resort projects in the pipeline, growing from 24% of the total in 2023 to 30% in 2024. In addition, around half of the rooms in hotels and resorts that opened last year were in resorts. Both Boa Vista (Cape Verde) and Sharm El Sheikh (Egypt) score highly because of the very large average size of the resorts there. The largest hotel in the entire pipeline is a Rixos resort being planned in Sharm El Sheikh, with over 1,800 rooms.
The Big 5 global chains – Marriott International, Hilton, Accor, Radisson Hotel Group and IHG Hotels & Resorts – account for 66% of hotels and 71% of rooms in the entire African pipeline.
Marriott International, the world's largest hotel chain, remains in the lead for the third consecutive year, in a seemingly unassailable position as number one, with almost twice the number of pipeline hotels and rooms as second placed Hilton, and it has the largest number of rooms added in the year.
Looking back at previous years, there used to be a neck and neck race between Accor and Marriott International but, for the second year running, Accor's pipeline has actually decreased, from a high of about 20,250 rooms in 2022 to 13,375 rooms today. Executives say that they are focused on having a “clean and achievable pipeline, rather than numbers for numbers sake”.
Accor's quote highlights a key issue in tracking hotel development in Africa, which is differentiating between hotel projects that are proposed from those that are under construction and from those that have been completed. Typically, the length of time between signing and opening is between four and five years. However, the report identifies 35 projects in the pipeline that are 10 or more years old, including one hotel that was signed 16 years ago.
When it comes to hotels under construction, Marriott International leads the way, with 138 hotels (15,011 rooms) currently being built. It is followed by Hilton (72 hotels, 5,955 rooms), Radisson Hotel Group (35 hotels, 5,748 rooms) and Accor (70 hotels, 3,346 rooms). TUI Hotels & Resorts has charged into the rankings in fifth place with 12 hotels (2,208 rooms) under construction.
As well as looking at deals, which may or may not materialise, W Hospitality Group also looked at who was opening hotels in Africa in 2023, and where. Of the total 29 chain hotels and resorts that opened in Africa in 2023, the split was 10 in North Africa and 19 in sub-Saharan Africa. Of those 19 openings, 11 were in East Africa, including six new hotels and resorts in Tanzania, which had the most openings of any African country. It is clear evidence of the attractiveness of both the mainland and Zanzibar to investors and operators.
Accor came out top of the list for openings last year, and it also tops the number of hotels and rooms opened over the past five years (2019-2023), with 34 hotels opening, comprising around 5,500 rooms.
In terms of “actualisation”, 2023 was an exceptionally slow year. However, that is likely to be offset by a strong 2024, during which the top 10 chains expect to open 139 hotels with 19,122 rooms.
Trevor Ward, Managing Director, W Hospitality Group, said: "Our report contains very positive data, with the pipeline expanding by more than 9 per cent in 2023. This is the largest increase since 2018 and, according to data produced by CoStar/STR, is one of the highest increases globally, surpassed only by the Americas. We look not just at signed deals and their status, but also at the historical actualisation of these deals. This year, we've placed greater emphasis than we have in the past on the actualisation, because if the deals don't become operating businesses, generating profits for the owners and paying fees to the hotel chains, no one's objectives are being met, are they?"
“We're looking forward to some 139 hotels and resorts opening in Africa in 2024, with expectations of a far greater actualisation rate than in recent years, as Africa strives to achieve its fair share of the global hotel industry”.
When one considers existing hotels, as well as hotels in the development pipeline, the continent's current king of the jungle is Accor, with 165 hotels, containing 29,041 rooms, open and trading. Marriott International is in second place, 25,451 rooms in 143 hotels, Hilton is third, 12,525 rooms in 47 hotels and Radisson Hotel Group is close behind with 12,179 rooms in 61 properties. However, if Marriott International delivers all the rooms in its pipeline, it is on course to overtake Accor and become pack leader, with 51,816 rooms in operation.
Matthew Weihs, Managing Director of The Bench, which organises the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF), concluded: “The report reveals some very positive trends, including strong growth in new hotel projects, the emergence of high-quality white label hotel operators and governments successfully attracting investment into their tourism industries. All this bodes well for deal-making discussions at AHIF.”
An update to the pipeline development survey, along with in-depth insights, will be presented by Trevor Ward at AHIF, which takes place at the Mövenpick Hotel, Windhoek, Namibia, from 25th – 27th June 2024.
The event is the most influential gathering of hospitality executives in Africa, connecting business leaders and fuelling investment in tourism projects, infrastructure, and hotel development across the continent.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF).
Media contact:
For further information and high-resolution images, please contact:
David Tarsh
+44 (0) 20 7602 5262 / +44 (0) 7770 816 070
Email: David@Tarsh.com
About W Hospitality Group:
The W Hospitality Group, a member of Hotel Partners Africa, specialises in the provision of advisory services to the hotel, tourism and leisure industries, providing a full range of services to clients who have investments in the sector, or who are looking to enter them through development, acquisition or other means. In sub-Saharan Africa W Hospitality Group is regarded as the market leader due to the market and financial expertise of its staff, its worldwide knowledge, and its commitment to its clients. In Africa, W Hospitality Group has to date worked in 40 countries on the continent, from its Lagos and Addis Ababa offices.
About the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF):
AHIF is the premier hotel investment conference in Africa, attracting many prominent international hotel owners, investors, financiers, management companies and their advisers. It is organised by The Bench (www.TheBench.com), which has a long track record of delivering multiple premium hotel investment conferences and forums across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Latin America. The Bench's mission is enabling prosperity by facilitating growth, networking, and thought leadership in the hospitality industry worldwide.
Sponsors of AHIF are Host Sponsor: Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB); Host Partner: Kasada Capital Management; Platinum Sponsors: ClubMed, Radisson Hotel Group; Gold Sponsors: Accor, Aleph Hospitality, BWH Hotels, CHIC, CityBlue, hansgrohe, IHG Hotels and Resorts, Knight Frank, Kofisit, LEVA, Marriott International. Millennium Hotels and Resorts; Silver Sponsors: Gondwana Collection, HVS, STR, TIME Hotels, TV5Monde; Tuck Shop Sponsor: Profica; Bar Sponsor: Zia Travel Atelier; Exhibitor: MultiChoice Namibia; Networking Sponsor: Talinda; Official Carriers: Discover Airlines, FlyNamibia, South Africa Airways.
Orders granted to seize assets from illegal mining kingpins
Orders granted to seize assets from illegal mining kingpins
The National Prosecuting Authority’s Asset Forfeiture Unit (NPA AFU) has obtained three orders granting the unit permission to seize assets worth some R18 million from alleged illegal mining kingpins.
The order was granted in the Pretoria High Court to seize 16 bank accounts, 51 vehicles and seven properties from several suspects which NPA spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana said are “the proceeds of unlawful activities of a syndicate dealing in unwrought gold in Khutsong area” in Carletonville.
“This emanates from a criminal investigation by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation [the Hawks] registered project Gillette in 2018 with the specific purpose of infiltrating a syndicate which dealt in unwrought gold where they illegally buy gold-bearing materials from legal mining workers and illegally from Zama-Zamas [illegal miners].
“They then process it into gold nuggets and sell it around the Johannesburg area, but the main buyers are unknown at this moment. The syndicate is mainly composed of foreign nationals from Zimbabwe and Mozambique. Some members of the syndicate acquired South African Identity documents fraudulently,” she said.
The properties are expected to be sold at public auction with the proceeds going into the Criminal Asset Recovery Account (CARA).
“The trial against the nine accused who are facing various charges including money laundering and racketeering is set to start on 24 July 2024 at the Pretoria High Court after it was transferred from [the] Oberholzer Magistrates Court.
“These forfeiture orders are part of the implementation of the Asset Forfeiture Unit’s asset recovery strategy to claim the proceeds of criminal activities back to the state. The overall National Anti-Corruption strategy by law enforcement agencies is to strengthen the fight against corruption by pursuing both civil and criminal processes to ensure that impunity is no longer a given,” Mahanjana said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 03/25/2024 - 14:30
493 views
Philippine Embassy Deepens Linkages with Diplomatic Academy of South Africa
Philippine Ambassador to South Africa Noralyn Jubaira Baja met with Ambassador Andre Groenewald, Director of the Diplomatic Training and Research Development Institute of the South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO-DTRDI).
The main objective of the meeting was to discuss and exchange views on how to implement the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on diplomatic training and research which was signed between DIRCO-DTRDI and the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) of the Philippines on 23 February 2023.
The meeting ended on a positive note, with both sides agreeing to explore cooperation in areas of mutual interest such as middle power diplomacy, blue economy, and artificial intelligence under the framework of the MOU.
First Secretary and Consul Maurice A. Tiempo accompanied Ambassador Baja during the meeting.
Ambassador Groenewald previously served as South Africa's top envoy to Ukraine, Armenia, Georgia and Moldova from 2019 to 2023. As a career diplomat, he has served at various offices in DIRCO. This is not his first time to be assigned at DTRDI and he has played a key role in strengthening DIRCO's training arm to capacitate diplomats not only from South Africa, but also from other African countries.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Foreign Affairs, Republic of the Philippines.
DPD: Trusted to deliver 8.4 million parcels per day, globally.
When it comes to parcel delivery, few names resonate on a global scale quite like DPD. The company’s reach, credibility, and the esteemed network it belongs to are nothing short of phenomenal. In this article, we delve into the vast expanse of DPD and its associated companies around the world, unveiling a picture of unmatched …
Increased deployments at the country’s borders this Easter weekend
Increased deployments at the country's borders this Easter weekend
More Border Management Authority (BMA) resources are going to be deployed and operating times will be increased at the country’s ports of entry in anticipation of an increase in movements during the Easter long weekend.
“The BMA is compelled to properly plan and execute a deliberate plan in order to ensure smooth and secure border operations during this period,” BMA Commissioner Michael Masiapato said on Monday.
Briefing the media in Pretoria, Masiapato said there was a critical need for the authority to increase its deployment of resources in anticipation of increased movements at the borders, as this presents unique challenges.
“As a reminder to all the stakeholders, the BMA is mandated to facilitate and manage the legitimate movements of persons and goods across all our 52 land ports of entry, 10 international airports and nine seaports,” he said.
The facilitation of movement at the ports of entry is done across five key functional areas of immigration, port health, environmental and agricultural biosecurity, including access control and general law enforcement at the ports of entry and border law enforcement areas.
“During these facilitations, the BMA officials have to secure the ports environment against threats of illegal migration, smuggling, as well as trafficking of persons and goods.
“With this in mind, we have formulated comprehensive strategies and an operational plan to ensure that our deployments are responsive and ensure efficient port operations, with the requisite capability to deal with any security threats and/or risks, which may arise during the upcoming Easter period,” he said.
The Easter operational plan is supported by various law enforcement structure,s such as the South African Police Service (SAPS), South African Revenue Service (SARS), South African National Defence Force (SANDF), Cross Border Road Transport Agency and various traffic authorities.
“Since our establishment, the BMA has intensified its working relationship with the Immigration Inspectorate, which has the mandate to identify illegal migrants who are already in the country and ensure their processing for deportation to their respective countries,” Masiapato said.
He said in this Easter period, they anticipate about one million people moving through the country’s ports.
“The numbers for this year’s Easter period could escalate further as members of the Zion Christian Church (ZCC), one of our biggest churches in the region, is opening for the annual Easter pilgrimage to Moria for the first time since COVID-19.”
Masiapato said the BMA has engaged their counterparts in Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini and Botswana, and they have agreed to extending operating hours at certain critical ports, which do not usually operate on a 24-hours basis.
The chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Consultative Committee on Border Management, who is also the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has approved the request to extend operating hours for selected ports.
Statistics for the 2023 Easter period showed that ports of entry, which facilitated the majority of the people were Beitbridge to Zimbabwe, Lebombo to Mozambique, Groblers Bridge to Botswana, Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg to Lesotho, OR Tambo International Airport, Cape Town International Airport, Oshoek to Eswatini, Kopfontein to Botswana and Caledonspoort to Lesotho. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 03/25/2024 - 14:47
244 views
African Secret Cream Liqueur’s ‘Secret Hero Of Africa’ Initiative Creates Buzz
African Secret Cream Liqueur, a proud South African brand known for its rich, creamy texture and unique taste, is creating abuzz for its “Secret Hero of Africa” Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiative. This initiative is celebrating the quiet army of dedicated individuals who stand as guardians of its precious wildlife and marine life across the …