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Dagga worth over R600 000 seized at the border

Location: News

Dagga worth over R600 000 seized at the border

Members of the South African Police Service’s border policing unit have arrested a 43-year-old truck driver from the Kingdom of Eswatini for allegedly attempting to smuggle dagga into South Africa.

In a statement on Friday, the SAPS said the male suspect was apprehended at the Oshoek Port of Entry in the early hours of Thursday morning.

According to police, at around 00:30am, the suspect was searched by members of the SAPS on the arrivals side of the port of entry.

“It was during this search that the astute members discovered the dagga concealed under a load of timber. As a result, the driver was detained and charged accordingly,” the statement said. 

A total of 150kgs of dagga with an estimated street value of R630 840 was seized.

The truck, with number plates from the Kingdom of Eswatini, was confiscated together with the seized dagga for further investigation. 

The suspect is expected to appear at the Elukwatini Magistrate's Court today. 

Mpumalanga Provincial Commissioner of the Police, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, has applauded the members for their dedication.

"The continuous arrests and successes witnessed at the borders prove that indeed the members are working with diligence. They are doing an excellent work on daily basis,” General Manamela said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Fri, 03/22/2024 - 10:20

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Black industrialists honoured for their outstanding contributions

Location: News

Black industrialists honoured for their outstanding contributions

President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended black industrialists who have been honoured for their outstanding contributions to the country’s economy and society.

“Your resilience, innovation and vision inspire us all to reach greater heights and build a brighter future for generations to come,” President Ramaphosa said.

Addressing the Black Industrialists and Exporters Conference and awards ceremony at the Sandton Convention Centre on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa called on all black industrialist companies to unite in their commitment to building a more inclusive, dynamic and prosperous economy that where every entrepreneur, regardless of background, has the opportunity to succeed.

The awards acknowledged the contributions by black industrialists to the economy while reflecting on progress made in advancing redress and transforming a skewed racialised economy.

A total of R261 billion has been committed for procurement from black industrialists companies over a period of five years.

“As we continue to support, invest and collaborate, we will unlock even greater potential and prosperity for our nation,” President Ramaphosa said on Wednesday.

He said through technology adoption, market diversification and strategic partnerships, black industrialists are positioning themselves as leaders in their respective industries and ambassadors of African excellence worldwide.

“As we celebrate the achievements of black industrialists, we must look to the future. Our businesses must not only thrive locally but also compete on the global stage.  

“My challenge to the 239 black industrialists who will benefit from these procurement commitments is to return to this stage at the 3rd Black Industrialists Conference, not as beneficiaries of procurement but as drivers of investment in the next generation of black entrepreneurs.

“These commitments will help to accelerate the re-industrialisation of our economy,” President Ramaphosa said.

The R27 billion committed to agriculture and agro-processing will bring more black farmers into the formal economy, readying them for the export opportunities that lie abroad.

“The R79 billion that has been committed for procurement in the retail sector will see more local products – made by black industrialists – in the hands of South African consumers.

“The R52 billion in procurement commitments in infrastructure will see more black-owned and -managed businesses contributing to the expansion and improvement of our ports, energy infrastructure and logistics networks.

“We are now at the point where black industrialists can be the capital that can fund and support growth in the next generation,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa said the black businesses are a cornerstone of the country’s economy.

“They are creating jobs, exporting goods, earning foreign exchange and helping to lift communities out of poverty.

“We know that the playing field for black business in South Africa is still not level. Yet there has been significant progress over the 30 years of freedom,” President Ramaphosa said.

The Black Industrialists and Exporters Conference also featured exhibitions that showcases proudly South African products manufactured by black industrialists and an awards ceremony that recognised and reward industrialists who have contributed significantly to industrialisation, job creation, poverty alleviation, innovation and transformation efforts.

The Black Industrialists and Exporters conference took place on the eve of the 20th anniversary of the implementation of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act (B-BBEE Act).

The objective of the black industrialists programme is to increase participation of black South Africans in the ownership and control of productive enterprises in key sectors and the entire value chain of the country’s economy.

More than 600 firms supported by the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition showed a turnover of about R80 billion during the 2023/24 financial year, illustrating the tangible results of drawing more black entrepreneurs into the industrial economy. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 03/21/2024 - 07:20

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Large players pull out all the stops to keep Africa connected

Location: News

Workonline Communications
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With only three of the ten undersea cables that connect South Africa to the world still in operation, it is quite remarkable that the region remains as well connected as it is.  This is the view of Workonline Communications (www.Workonline.Africa/), one of the leading providers of wholesale IP transit services in Africa, commenting on recent disruptions to internet connectivity across the continent due to multiple undersea cable faults.

“The cable breaks on both sides of the continent have highlighted the issue of the lack of capacity to support Africa's burgeoning internet requirements,” says Edward Lawrence of the Workonline Group. “There are 574 active and planned submarine cables across the globe, yet South Africa only has 10 that connect it to the rest of the world, and seven of these are currently out of action.”

In February 2024, three vital cables—AAE-1, EIG, and SEACOM—connecting the east coast of Africa to Europe were disrupted, allegedly due to vandalism by the Houthis. Then, on March 14, 2024, four out of the five west coast cables—SAT3, WACS, ACE, and MainOne—were affected, reportedly by an undersea rock fall near Ivory Coast. These incidents have significantly impacted internet connectivity, not only in South Africa but across the entire continent.

The capacity constraints are further complicated by the time it takes to not only repair submarine cables, but also to lay new infrastructure. Lawrence explains that it can take 18 months or longer to plan for new cables, and a further two years or more to actually build and commission them.

“We're fortunate that due to our investment in Africa and abroad we are able to be more nimble than most and can increase our undersea capacity at speed. We've designed our network to be as resilient as possible, acquiring capacity on the most stable routes we can find. Incremental capacity, or augments as they are referred to, require us to acquire hundreds of Gbps of capacity at a time, so we rely on our deep relationships which we've developed across the industry.”

Through strategic partnerships and investments in mega Points of Presence (PoPs) across Africa, Workonline remains at the forefront of delivering high-quality IP transit services to meet the evolving needs of ISPs and CDNs in Africa.

"We understand the critical importance of internet connectivity in today's digital age," added Lawrence. "As such, we are committed to proactively managing network disruptions and minimizing downtime to provide our customers with the continuity they need to thrive in a competitive landscape."

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Workonline Communications.

Follow Workonline Communications on:
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About Workonline Communications Group:
Workonline (AS 37271), founded in 2006, is one of the largest IP transit networks in Africa. The company operates mega PoPs across South, East and West Africa, Europe, and Asia, and is continually expanding its infrastructure across the African continent.

Workonline (AS 37271) is one of the largest and the fastest growing IP transit networks in Africa. The company is focused on providing highly scalable, high quality, and flexible service options to meet the needs of carriers, Internet Service Providers, content providers, and mobile operators.

Website: www.Workonline.Africa/news
Email: bizdev@workonline.africa

Read moreLarge players pull out all the stops to keep Africa connected

Sharpeville massacre victims remembered 

Location: News

Sharpeville massacre victims remembered 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has encouraged South Africans to continue to honour those who fought for the rights that all enjoy today and hold dear.

President Ramaphosa delivered the keynote address at the Human Rights Day commemoration in Sharpeville, Gauteng on Thursday, held under the theme: “Three Decades of Respect for and Promotion of Human Rights”.

“Sixty-four years have passed since the ground on which we gather here in Sharpeville bore witness to one of the worst atrocities committed by the apartheid regime against the South African people.

“And although many decades have passed, we still remember with great sorrow and pain the 69 people who were killed and the many more who were maimed as they protested in peace against the grave injustices imposed upon them,” the President said. 

Earlier, President Ramaphosa led a wreath laying ceremony at the Sharpeville memorial site in commemoration of South Africans who laid their lives in sacrifice for the struggle for the attainment of human rights and democratic South Africa.

He also met with family members of the fallen Sharpeville Massacre victims during the wreath laying ceremony.

Today’s gathering, he said, was held to trace the journey as a nation over the last 64 years, from a state of discrimination and repression to a land of democracy and freedom.

“Ours was a journey of relentless struggle. We still recall how every black South African – African, Coloured and Indian - was denied the basic human rights to which they were entitled.

“We recall how many generations of black South Africans were denied the right to life and dignity, the right to equal treatment, the right to vote and to be heard, the right to live where they want, to work in the trade of their choice, the right to education and health care, the right to the protection of the law,” he said. 

The President reflected that it was a difficult and dangerous journey travelled by community activists and union organisers, by traditional leaders and religious groupings, by freedom fighters and underground operatives, by political prisoners and exiles, and by friends and supporters across the world.

He added that it was a struggle to realise the rights contained in the Bill of Rights which called for equal treatment of all people, equal access to land, direct representation and voting rights.

“Ours was a struggle to realise the vision of the Freedom Charter, adopted by the Congress of People in 1955, of a South Africa that is prosperous and free and in which all enjoy equal rights and opportunities.

“It was these principles and these ideals, these struggles and these sacrifices, that enabled the achievement of our democracy and the adoption of the Bill of Rights that is at the centre of our democratic Constitution,” he said. 

And as the country celebrates this milestone, President Ramaphosa said the country will reflect on the journey taken towards the full realisation of the fundamental freedoms contained in the Bill of Rights.

“We will count the elections that we have held every five years since 1994, elections that have been peaceful, free and fair and that have reflected the will of the people.

“We will assess the institutions that make our laws, that both represent the views and regularly seek the counsel of the South Africans people. We will point to the independence of our judiciary, the vibrancy of our civil society, the activism of our trade unions and the freedom of our media.

“As we celebrate 30 years of freedom, we will reflect on the progress we have made in progressively realising the social and economic rights contained in our Constitution,” he said. 

The President said the country has much to celebrate as he detailed the progress made by government throughout the years. 

He highlighted that millions of South Africans have been lifted out of dire poverty, while eight out of every 10 households have proper housing. 

“Nine out of every 10 homes have electricity and access to clean drinking water. South Africans are living longer. Far fewer women are dying in child birth and far fewer children are dying in infancy.

“More children from poor families are completing school, passing matric and going on to study at universities and colleges,” he said. 

The President said this has been made possible because the country has focused on correcting the injustices of the past and meeting the needs of the poor and excluded.

He highlighted that working together, nearly 4 million hectares of land has been returned to people who had been dispossessed of their land and acquired over 5 million hectares of land for redistribution and to provide security of tenure for labour tenants and other farm dwellers.

Government has provided social grants for children, the elderly and people with disability, and recently introduced a special social relief of distress grant for unemployed people.

Government also provides free daily meals to millions of school children and has expanded the number of fee-free schools and has massively increased funding for students from poor and working-class families to attend universities and colleges.

“As our economy has changed, more and more people have been able to exercise the right to freely choose their trade, occupation or profession. Our economy has tripled in size since 1994.

“While unemployment still remains unacceptably high, the number of South Africans in employment has more than doubled in the last 30 years. The proportion of executive management positions held by black people increased almost five-fold between 1996 and 2016,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Thu, 03/21/2024 - 14:39

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Social Development to keep older persons fit and active in Mbombela 

Location: News

Social Development to keep older persons fit and active in Mbombela 

As the country commemorates Human Rights Day, the Department of Social Development will use the day to promote the rights of older persons through dialogue and sporting activities in Mbombela, Mpumalanga. 

The active ageing programme will be held on Thursday in collaboration with the South African Older Persons Forum (SAOPF), under the theme: “Leaving No One Behind during the Decade of Healthy Ageing”.

The programme seeks to improve the quality of life, health, and well-being of older persons by instilling dignity, peer social integration, as well as promotion of senior citizens’ voices and the creation of awareness concerning their ability to express themselves through dialogue, music, sport, and recreational activities.

The active ageing programme will unfold through an interactive dialogue where older persons will have the opportunity to participate in a democratic manner by independently expressing themselves on how they would like to be treated by authorities and society.

Among other topics, they will reflect on the role of traditional leadership in the promotion and protection of the rights of older persons, family care and support.

Older persons will also participate in various sporting activities including soccer and athletics which are an essential component of active ageing programme.

All government departments, tasked with the implementation of the Older Persons Act will be part of the proceedings

“In choosing to concentrate on the human rights of older persons, the department is trying to encourage the country to respect the human rights of older persons as enshrined in the Constitution. 

“The active ageing programme is a platform to inform older persons about their rights; establish cooperation with government so that older persons’ rights, concerns, needs are identified, voiced, and addressed,” the department said in a statement. 

According to the 2022 Census report, the country’s older persons population was estimated at 5.6 million. The report shows an increase in the number of older persons across all provinces, with highest number of the older population being in Gauteng at 1.4 million and KwaZulu-Natal at 940 000.

“This is an indication that South Africa is becoming an ageing society which is not immune from the burden of disease that can cause disability due to an increase in old age-related chronic diseases. 

“In a few decades, the loss of health and life worldwide will be greater from non-communicable or chronic diseases, such as, cardiovascular disease, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, arthritis and diabetes among others,” the department said. 

The department highlighted that in South Africa older persons are faced with numerous challenges including, gender-based violence and femicide. They are often deprived from enjoying their old age as they are often forced to take care of orphaned and vulnerable grandchildren. - SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Thu, 03/21/2024 - 11:30

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Deputy Minister Morolong to hand over library books in North West

Location: News

Deputy Minister Morolong to hand over library books in North West

Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, will on Friday hand over books donated by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) to Mosikare Secondary School in Mahikeng, in the North West province. 

The hand over will take place during South African Library Week (SALW) which is commemorated from 18 to 25 March 2024 under the theme “Libraries Foster Social Cohesion”.

“In response to a national call to improve literacy levels in South Africa, which start with improving reading capabilities, GCIS which has a constitutional mandate to provide information to citizens has donated books from its library to Mosikare Secondary school which has recently been renovated and includes a library,” the GCIS said in a statement. 

The hand over of books will highlight the vital role of libraries in bringing people together , fostering connections and promoting unity through exchange of ideas and lifelong learning through literacy development. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Thu, 03/21/2024 - 09:09

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African Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil Celebrates South African Flavours in New Cookbook

Location: MyPR

As a brand that is all about shining a light on local produce, African Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil is thrilled to announce the launch of its new cookbook. The Savouring South Africa cookbook is free to download and a celebration of local flavours and produce, featuring recipes for breakfasts, snacks, side dishes, main meals …

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Inaugural Jonsson Workwear Luxe Travel Awards Celebrate South African Hospitality Excellence

Location: MyPR

On the enchanting evening of 19 March 2024, the opulence of South African luxury hospitality took centre stage as the winners of the inaugural Jonsson Workwear Luxe Travel Awards were unveiled. Amidst the splendid ambiance of SIBA the Restaurant in Cape Town, 100 luminaries from the world of luxury hospitality congregated to celebrate the pinnacle …

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Black industrialists are job creators, wealth generators and agents of change

Location: News

Black industrialists are job creators, wealth generators and agents of change

Despite facing immense challenges, black industrialists have persevered, defying the odds and breaking barriers to create thriving businesses and contribute significantly to the nation's economic development.

“Today, we celebrate the power of empowerment. Empowerment that has not been handed out as charity but earned through hard work, resilience and unwavering determination.

“Black industrialists are not just job creators and wealth generators, they are agents of change, driving social and economic transformation in our communities,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Wednesday.

He said at the heart of every successful industrialist lies a spirit of innovation and creativity.

“Whether it is in technology, manufacturing, agriculture or services, they have shown that excellence knows no bounds and that Africa is a continent brimming with untapped potential and ingenuity.

“None of this progress would have been possible without the spirit of collaboration and partnership,” the President said, addressing the Black Industrialists and Exporters Conference at the Sandton Convention Centre.

President Ramaphosa said it was a good moment for the country to reflect on the empowerment journey which is a central part of the changes that have taken place over the last three decades.

“We have about 1 000 black industrialists present here today. This is a living testimony to the changes that have taken place in the past 30 years, and indeed, over the past five years,” President Ramaphosa said.

He said empowerment is a historical imperative to provide redress to black South Africans who were discriminated against and excluded under the apartheid regime.

“Even after the advent of democracy, and the removal of discriminatory laws, the racial features of privilege and disadvantage remained,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said underdevelopment in townships and bantustans limited access to economic opportunities.

“Bantu education left several generations without the skills needed to improve their economic situation.

“Much has changed in our country, but this iniquitous inheritance continues to diminish the economic prospects of many black and women South Africans. It is this inheritance that we are determined to overcome,” he said.

The President said for far too long, the country's economic landscape was marked by inequality, exclusion and systemic barriers that hindered the progress of aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those from black communities.

The conference takes place on the eve of the 20th anniversary of the implementation of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act (B-BBEE Act).

It has shone the spotlight on the achievements, successes, opportunities and strides made by the Black Industrialists Programme since its inception in 2016.

This years’ conference features 53 large companies or procurers making pledges to buy from the growing class of black industrialists.

The conference will culminate with an awards ceremony aimed at recognising the contribution of Black Industrialists towards driving economic growth, social transformation and in advancing inclusive entrepreneurship in the South African economy.

More than 200 entries have been received and ten awards will be announced at the conference. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 03/20/2024 - 15:14

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Ecobank Group Strengthens Leadership Team with Strategic Top-level Appointments

Location: Business
Ecobank Transnational Incorporated

Ecobank (www.Ecobank.com), the pan-African financial services group, announces the appointment of key senior executives to strengthen the Group's leadership team and to drive delivery of its new Growth, Transformation and Returns (GTR) strategy. Abena Osei-Poku joins as Regional Executive Anglophone West Africa and Managing Director Ecobank Ghana; Martin Miruka as Group Executive for Transformation, Enablement and Customer Experience; Anup Suri as Group Executive, Commercial and Consumer Banking; Michael Larbie as Group Executive, Corporate and Investment Banking; and Thierry Mbimi as Group Executive, Internal Audit & Management Services.

These top-level appointments are strategically important as Ecobank enters its next phase of growth and transformation, aiming to become the bank of choice and a leader in delivering responsive, innovative and affordable financial services' products and solutions for Africa. Ecobank Group has decided to combine the commercial and the consumer businesses, under the leadership of Anup Suri, underscoring its commitment to strengthening these two business units to drive growth. In addition, the establishment of the new role of Transformation, Enablement, and Customer Experience underscores the Group's determination to prioritizing the necessary leadership for the successful execution of its transformation.

Jeremy Awori, Chief Executive Officer, Ecobank Group, said: “These appointments are crucial to the execution of our recently announced five-year Growth, Transformation and Returns strategy. I am delighted that Abena Osei-Poku, Martin Miruka, Anup Suri, Michael Larbi, and Thierry Mbimi are joining our leadership team, each bringing proven, valuable, global and African financial services experience. I have no doubt that they will play pivotal roles in driving Ecobank's future growth and success.” 

Abena Osei Poku joined Ecobank in January. She is an accomplished Pan-African business leader with over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry. Her expertise spans Corporate and Investment banking, Business banking and Risk Management across Africa. Her previous roles include Executive Director for Commercial Banking, responsible for Corporate & Business Banking at Barclays Bank Ghana; Co-Regional Head of Coverage, Corporate & Investment Banking at Absa Bank Group, overseeing East and West Africa; and CEO and Managing Director of Absa Bank Ghana. Abena takes over from Daniel Sackey who is retiring from the Bank. We thank Daniel Sackey for his leadership, commitment, and effective service across the continent over the past 27 years at Ecobank.

Martin Miruka, who joined Ecobank in February, brings with him 25 years' experience as C-suite executive, business strategist, serial entrepreneur, and angel investor with strong credentials on pan-African transformation. His previous roles include Group Head of Business Transformation, Customer Experience, and Innovation at Equity Group Holdings, where he successfully led transformation by breaking the Group's strategic and operational silos, aligning technology investments with business strategy, and ultimately delivering a branded Customer Experience across multiple African countries. He was also the Founder/CEO of Atom TDF, Kenya's first indigenous brand strategy and innovation consultancy, and Kava Africa, a fintech/Insurtech based in Nairobi, Kenya.

Anup Suri assumed his new role in March. He brings a wealth of over 30 years of senior leadership experience across various industries and organisations in both developed and emerging markets across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, the UK, North America and South America. He joins Ecobank Group from HSBC Group where he was Managing Director, Global Head of Retail Sales and Third-Party Distribution. Anup previously held other senior roles at Standard Chartered Group, Standard Chartered Bank and ABN Amro.

Michael Larbie, who assumed his role in March, brings over 25 years of global senior financial services and investment banking experience. He served as CEO of International & Broader Africa at Rand Merchant Bank (RMB), prior to which he held the positions of CEO & Managing Director of RMB Nigeria and Regional Head of West Africa, as well as Head of Coverage & Investment Banking for Africa (excluding South Africa). His experience also includes senior investment banking roles at Merrill Lynch and senior project management roles at American International Group. Michael takes over from Eric Odhiambo, who will retire from Ecobank at the end of April. We thank Eric Odhiambo for his unwavering commitment, invaluable contribution, and dedicated service over the past six and a half years, first as Chief Risk Officer and then as Group Executive of Corporate and Investment Banking.

Thierry Mbimi, who also started in March, has 27 years of extensive industry and consulting experience, with the last 17 years in director-level roles. He brings with him a wealth of global experience in audit and risk management, complemented by a solid background in technology. Thierry was the CEO & Managing Partner for KPMG Central Africa (Audit, Tax, and Advisory), prior to which he held several roles in the organisation, including Partner and Head of West Africa Financial Risk Management, Lead Partner for the Financial Services Sector in Francophone sub-Saharan Africa and Global Services Lead Partner for the African Development Bank.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated.

Media Contact:
Christiane Mbimbe Bossom
Group Communications
Ecobank Transnational Incorporated
Email: groupcorporatecomms@ecobank.com
Tel: +228 22 21 03 03
Web: www.Ecobank.com

About Ecobank Group (or ‘Ecobank Transnational Incorporated' or ‘ETI'):
Ecobank Group is the leading private pan-African banking group with unrivalled African expertise. Present in 35 sub-Saharan African countries, as well as France, the UK, UAE and China, its unique pan-African platform provides a single gateway for payments, cash management, trade and investment. The Group employs over 15,000 people and offers Consumer, Commercial, Corporate and Investment Banking products, services and solutions across multiple channels, including digital, to over 32 million customers. For further information, please visit www.Ecobank.com.

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High performance and innovation the hallmarks of Road Car and Supercar category

Location: Sport

JP van der Walt set to defend his triple King of the Hill crown in Road Car and Supercar category in Porsche 911 Turbo S Official entries from Suzuki, BMW and Mercedes-Benz feature the latest petrol, hybrid and alternative energy-powered vehicles Category covers everything from hot hatchbacks to muscle cars and high-powered supercars – from […]

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SIDSSA 2024: Unpacking South Africa’s Top 12 Infrastructure Priorities

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

South Africa's Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala unpacked the country's 2024/2025 infrastructure priorities and project pipeline during a panel session at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium South Africa (SIDSSA) 2024 in Cape Town on Tuesday.

According to Minister Zikalala, the country's top 12 infrastructure priorities seek to stimulate job creation, promote economic competitiveness and contribute to broadening economic inclusivity.

“We announced the 12 priority projects today and it's important to give a background as to how we arrived at this priority list. We want projects that will contribute to higher GDP impact, but at the same time, ensure export and embrace the green economy,” he stated.

Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit https://SIDSSA.org.za/.

With support from Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) – a program within the Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure – the projects also aim to accelerate private sector-led development. The projects are poised to serve as a catalyst for closing the infrastructure investment gap, while meeting the infrastructure target set out by the government's National Development Plan.

“It was very important for us to ask what we plan to contribute from an operational perspective to all the socioeconomic perspectives outlined by the Minister,” stated Mameetse Masemola, Head of ISA. “We will work very closely with the project sponsors in unpacking the work and once we are ready, we will invite transactional advisors.”

It was noted during the session that shortfalls in operation and maintenance have resulted in the underdevelopment of South Africa's infrastructure strategy. As such, the need to meet end-user's requirements, the mobilization of digital infrastructure and ensuring operational competency were noted as prerequisites to de-risk investment in the sector.

“The projects listed give the catalytic impetus to develop our industry,” stated Wayne Petersen, Director of Transport and Infrastructure at WSP Group. “We have to ensure that the private sector invests strongly in the projects that are implemented.”

Meanwhile, panelists touched on the importance of bankability and sustainability in attracting private sector investment towards infrastructure projects in the country.

“Infrastructure assets are not only about the assets themselves, but also about the economics that surround them,” said Catherine-Candice Koffman, Group Executive for Project Preparation at the Development Bank of Southern Africa. “Bankability is very much about ensuring we have a project that doesn't rely too much on the fiscus. A successful project is one where you use as little budgetary capital to fund the projects as possible.”

For South Africa's infrastructure projects to maintain operational efficiency after completion, it was noted that the country will need to invest in attracting international talent while promoting human capital development, with Partner at PwC Southern Africa Chris van der Merwe stating, “These projects need to strike a balance between economic and social projects.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

About SIDSSA 2024:
SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event.

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SAA is here to stay, says Minister Gordhan

Location: News

SAA is here to stay, says Minister Gordhan

Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan has assured staff at South African Airways (SAA) that the state-owned airline is “here to stay”.

This following last week’s announcement of the collapse of the deal with strategic equity partner, Takatso Consortium.

“Our ambition is that SAA will make enough profit to pay the government dividends. We have rebuilt the airline, and it will make profit that can support the fiscus instead of it looking for bailouts from government.

“SAA is here to stay. SAA will grow. SAA will expand. Don’t allow negativity to come near us,” Gordhan said.

The Minister reflected on the airline’s recent troubles and emphasised the need for intolerance for corruption.

“We should be grateful to government for the role it played to avoid liquidation.

“We will have zero tolerance for any corruption that rears its ugly head at SAA. We have a bright future ahead of us. We need to work together. You must work as a team,” Gordhan said.

Last week during the announcement of the Takatso Consortium deal, Gordhan told the media that SAA had a corporate plan aimed at sustaining the airline without needing government help.

“That corporate plan actually entails the gradual growth in the number of routes that SAA will take up in the course of the next few years. Similarly, it will have the capacity to lease more aircraft, both for domestic use, use within the continent and for inter-continental flights as well.

“All of these plans will be rigorously examined with the necessary aviation expertise to ensure that jobs are secure, that the airline is secure and that there is a future for SAA and its flag to be seen continuously within the country, within the continent and across continents as well,” Gordhan said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 09:30

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Extradition request sent to Eswatini for alleged AKA killers

Location: News

Extradition request sent to Eswatini for alleged AKA killers

Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola has transmitted a request by South Africa for the extradition of brothers Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande from the Kingdom of Eswatini.

The two are wanted back in South Africa because of their alleged involvement in the murder of South African musician Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes.

Forbes was slain in a brazen attack outside a Durban restaurant in February last year.

“The request is made in terms of the Extradition Treaty between South Africa and Eswatini, dated 4 October 1968, and in terms of the SADC Protocol on Extradition dated 3 October 2002, to which both countries are signatories. The Ministry stands ready to give its highest level of co-operation to its counterparts in the Kingdom of Eswatini,” the department said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the Department of Correctional Services (DSC) says it is investigating a case of assault filed by controversial doctor Nandipha Magudumana.

Magudumana is currently being held at the women’s section of the Bizzah Makhate Correctional Centre in Kroonstad in connection with the escape of convicted rapist and murderer Thabo Bester.

“DCS is investigating the circumstances following what was said to be a prayer meeting in a different cell from Magudamana’s. Reports of an alleged altercation and a push against the grills can be confirmed.

“DCS officials advised Magudumana to open a criminal case when she reported that she was allegedly assaulted, but she opted to discuss it with her lawyers first. Furthermore, DCS Healthcare officials conducted an examination on her and found no visible injuries.

“The safety and well-being of inmates is our utmost priority, and we take such allegations seriously. Hence, this incident is under investigation,” the DCS said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 09:46

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Transport infrastructure foundation for economic development in Africa, says Mashatile

Location: News

Transport infrastructure foundation for economic development in Africa, says Mashatile

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has described transport infrastructure as the cornerstone of economic expansion in Africa. 

“We must make sure that we use the discussions and deliberations of the symposium to bring tangible collaboration on bi-national projects that will strengthen the continent and its economy,” he said on Monday. 

The Deputy President was speaking at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium South Africa (SIDSSA) in Cape Town. 

He said he was confident that the gathering would establish more strategic collaborations with the other African leaders. 

“The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement remains an important platform for us as a continent to strengthen regional integration at both an economic and cultural level.” 

The gathering is a platform that brings together critical role players in the infrastructure investment space to accelerate an infrastructure-led economic recovery plan.

The symposium also sets the tone for collaboration and cooperation within the continent.

Meanwhile, the country’s second-in-command said he was also looking forward to the launch of the construction book, which is a repository of projects going into procurement or construction in the 2024/25 financial year. 

The Deputy President believes that this will serve as an important indicator to the market that the pipeline of projects is realisable.

“We also look forward to the announcement of the 12 infrastructure project priorities for the 2024/2025 financial year that will replenish the pipeline and receive project preparation funding from ISA [Infrastructure South Africa],” he said. 

He also reflected on the success of the Infrastructure Investment Plan adopted by Cabinet in 2020. 

The Deputy told delegates that the three central themes that anchor the plan have remained consistent throughout the sixth administration. These include quality infrastructure for development, recovery, and inclusive growth, which were all spearheaded by the government through policy development and implementation.

“When we say development, we mean both the development and delivery of infrastructure, and the development of our people through infrastructure delivery. When we say recovery, we mean the recovery of our economy through a large-scale infrastructure programme, led and championed by the government.” 

Mashatile defined inclusive growth as the redressing of spatial imbalances between urban and rural areas through infrastructure delivery programmes, which ought to address gender, racial and other inequalities. 

“The entire population should be included in the benefits associated with infrastructure investment and subsequent gross fixed capital formation," he said. 

While challenges are restraining the fast pace of delivering quality infrastructure, the Deputy President called on the symposium to display some of the progress and successes that serve as a foundation for the incoming seventh administration. 

“In the last five years, we have put specific focus on the strategic integrated projects that have the highest GDP [gross domestic product] impact, high employment absorption capacity, and localisation potential.”

He is of the view that these projects have the potential to crowd in private sector investments due to their multiplier effect. 

“We are proud to say that of the pipeline that we gazetted both in 2020 and 2022, almost R10 billion worth of projects have completed construction, R233 billion worth of projects are currently in construction and R170 billion worth of projects are currently in procurement.” 

Some of the completed projects include Vaal Gamagara Phase 1, the raising of the Hazelmere Dam wall, student accommodation across different universities, transport projects like the Musina Ring Road, national routes and the construction of social housing.

Of these, Mashatile said significant work was done within the energy portfolio of projects. 

The energy project pipeline comprises more than 100 projects amounting to R240 billion. Some of these projects have a value of over R100 billion – spanning from transmission, gas, and renewables to green hydrogen.

The Deputy President said they have also noted the gap in the readiness and preparedness of projects for the market. However, he said in 2023, Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) received its first tranche of funding to support projects with project preparation. 

“This has proven itself a game changer as some projects show great potential but do not always have the fiscal allocation for technical support, legal support, or even capacity building.” 

According to the Deputy President, the project preparation funding allows ISA to support projects that otherwise would stay dormant for many years.

“It is important to note that of the first R200 million tranche received, 37 projects will already be receiving project preparation support.” 

Meanwhile, through coordination and support of various departments and government stakeholders, Mashatile noted that ISA has unblocked 195 permits for 47 projects. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 10:50

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South African Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Prioritize Gas, Renewable Energy to Drive Efficiency

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

South African Special Economic Zones (SEZ) are turning to natural gas and renewable energy to secure energy supply while improving operational efficiency. During a panel discussion at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium of South Africa (SIDSSA) in Cape Town on Tuesday, representatives from various SEZs across the country underscored the role gas and renewables have already begun to play.

Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit https://SIDSSA.org.za/.

With South Africa currently faced with an energy crisis, ensuring stability of supply has become a rising challenge for businesses across the country. SEZs are not exempt in this regard. According to Bheka Zulu, CEO, Tshwane Automotive SEZ, “This has led us to find innovative solutions…we are currently building a gas plant project – and solar. We still need to find more energy. Partnerships are key, because stakeholders can help us achieve this.”

Similarly, the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) SEZ is also developing gas and renewable energy projects to enhance energy security while reducing reliance on the national electrical grid. Simthembile Mapu, Executive Manager: Business Development and Support at the RBIDZ SEZ, said “We have a gas to power plant and are also constructing a pipeline. We also have a wind farm.”

While renewables stand to support operational efficiency, baseload power provided by South Africa's state utility Eskom remains imperative.

“We are talking about an intervention in renewable energy. Renewable energy is less about the base load. We can never downplay the role Eskom plays to make sure the baseload is taken care of. The issue of the lack of power is a major [challenge]. We need to sort out the issue of power supply in our country to support SEZ,” stated Themba Koza, Acting CEO, COEGA.

Strategically designated areas for targeted economic activities, South Africa's SEZs are to accelerate industrialization in the country. Stieneke Jensma, COO: Industrial Zones Program, Industrial Development Corporation, explained that “Our mandate is to accelerate the development of SEZ. We started a program focusing on energy security, specifically regarding SEZ. The idea is to collaborate and to ensure that what we are delivering promotes industrialization.”  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

About SIDSSA 2024:
SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event.

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South Africa Requires $5.7T to Bridge Infrastructure Investment Gap

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

Nearly $5.7 trillion is required to close the infrastructure investment gap in South Africa by 2050, according to statements made by Mameetse Masemola, Acting Head of Infrastructure South Africa (ISA), during the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium South Africa (SIDSSA) on Monday.

During a media briefing, Masemola provided an update on projects led by ISA since its enactment in 2020, as well as highlighted efforts being made by the government agency to foster public-private sector cooperation and accelerate infrastructure development.

Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit www.SIDSSA.org.za.

“Our mandate is to close the infrastructure investment gap… We ensure projects are viable and bankable to attract funding from global investors. We work closely with authorizing departments to ensure fast rollout of projects, while ensuring the projects meet local regulations,” said Masemola.

ISA has led projects across ICT, energy, water and sanitation, transport and human settlement sectors, which have seen substantial growth in recent years.

“These are the sectors that support economic growth and enable South Africa to be competitive globally. Most of the projects were in their early stages in 2020. The value was R230 billion and the value has grown to over R500 billion,” stated Masemola.

In the energy sector, 95% of projects deployed have been private sector-led, including renewable energy projects developed under South Africa's Renewable Independent Power Producer Program (REIPPP), Embedded Generation Program and Just Energy Transition Program. Of the energy sector projects, 25 are under construction under Bid Window 5 of REIPPP, with five having reached financial close and a total of 14,000 jobs expected to be created, added Masemola.

In the transport sector, 15 projects have been announced, of which six represent a total value of R25 billion and are currently under development. Masemola stated that ISA has seen success when it comes to the human settlement sector, with over 9,000 units constructed and 38,000 jobs created since 2020.

Commenting on ISA's current and future project pipeline, Masemola stated that the agency has secured R600 million from South Africa's treasury to invest in projects over the next three years, with 31 projects currently being prepared.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Less talk, more action! South African creatives are designing for social impact

Location: MyPR

Design is a powerful tool for change. As part of reshaping the industry’s paradigms, this year’s theme for Decorex Africa, the continent’s leading decor and design showcase, is Designing for Impact. It marks a commitment to thinking beyond traditional boundaries and identifying the sweet spot that lies at the intersection of creativity, commercial viability and …

Read moreLess talk, more action! South African creatives are designing for social impact

6 Infrastructure Agreements Signed at SIDSSA 2024

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

Several infrastructure and finance-focused deals were signed during a media briefing at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium of South Africa (SIDSSA) on March 18. The six deal signings aim to bolster private-led investment in South African infrastructure projects and cover various strategic areas including project development, financing, capacity building and research.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between South Africa's Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala and John Humphrey, the UK's Trade Commissioner for Africa. The deal builds on three agreements signed between the countries since the launch of Infrastructure South Africa in 2020 and aims to strengthen cooperation regarding project preparation, appraisal and development.

Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit www.SIDSSA.org.za.

The remaining five deals were signed by Infrastructure South Africa – represented by Mameetse Masemola, Head of Infrastructure South Africa - and various organizations. These include an MoU signed with the South African Institution of Civil Engineering to aid in collaboration and initiatives within the infrastructure planning and development space. The MoU covers strategic areas of cooperation including capacity building, project development and research.

An agreement was signed between Infrastructure South Africa and the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The MoU will see the parties take the country's infrastructure investment drive global, with support provided in promoting South Africa's project portfolio.  

Meanwhile, an agreement was signed with the Transnet National Ports Authority for the development of The Construction Book – set to be launched on 19 March at SIDSSA – and the development of strategic integrated projects.

A Memorandum of Agreement was signed with the South African Road Agency (SANRAL). Infrastructure South Africa and SANRAL will collaboratively work towards closing the country's infrastructure investment gap, developing The Construction Book while developing strategic projects.  

Infrastructure South Africa also recently signed an MoU with the University of Johannesburg, announced during the SIDSSA media briefing. The media briefing was facilitated by South Africa's Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong and featured updates on projects and national infrastructure priorities.

SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event. The Masterclass on Sustainable Infrastructure Development is held in collaboration with the National School of Government.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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African Ministers Discuss Infrastructure Cooperation at Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium (SIDSSA) Leaders Meeting

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

South African and regional ministers convened to pinpoint key infrastructure priorities both within South Africa and across the continent during a Leaders Meeting at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium (SIDSSA) 2024 on March 18 in Cape Town.

The discussion, which was led by South Africa's Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala, underscored the importance of project preparation, engagement from both the public and private sectors, maintenance and the implementation of sustainable facilitation methods as crucial elements in fostering investment and promoting regional harmonization within the infrastructure sector.

Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit www.SIDSSA.org.za..

“The purpose of this forum is to identify areas of priority on infrastructure and ensure that we integrate efforts to implement those projects,” Minister Zikalala stated.

The establishment of Infrastructure South Africa aims to serve as a point of entry for infrastructure planning in the country. The organization is a one-stop shop that catalyzes the country's infrastructure target set out in South Africa's National Development Plan, providing best practices in project preparation, planning and technical and financial support for projects.

“We have been established as a bespoke infrastructure development agency in the country,” stated Infrastructure South Africa Head Mameetse Masemola, adding, “We deal with matters around private sector-led infrastructure projects, which require authorizations, permits, licenses and normal bureaucracy around getting projects to be implemented. We unlock these restrictions.”

Meanwhile, it was noted that cross-border collaboration between countries in Africa is a requisite to creating the conditions conducive for the private sector to participate in the continent's infrastructure development. A number of MoUs between South Africa and its neighboring countries – including Lesotho, Eswatini and Zimbabwe – have served to promote regional integration in the infrastructure sector.

“Our main role for the continent is to ensure that we invest in critical infrastructure so that we put in the building blocks that ensure that our nations prosper and that we grow together,” stated South Africa's Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille.

A number of efforts introduced by South Africa's Department of Transport have worked to facilitate the ease of movement from the country's ports and air space. By liberalizing the continent's air space and maritime territories, Africa will be able to harmonize the implementation of favorable regulatory frameworks that promote integration.

“We have introduced a number of efforts in trying to bring about this harmonization between our countries,” stated South Africa's Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga, adding, “For instance, in South Africa, we have introduced Cross Easy, which ensures that when a truck arrives at a port, it is already processed and reduces its travel time.”

The participation of the Premiers of the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal provinces showcased how South Africa can further integrate the country's infrastructure systems. It was noted during the discussion that South Africa's economy relies on the efficiencies of its ports, rail network and aviation network and that it is imperative for the rest of the continent to benefit from the modernization of the country's infrastructure industry.

“We share borders with countries such as Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho, amongst others, and this puts us in a strategic position in terms of ensuring our infrastructure planning and the integration of our infrastructure maximizes the potential of the African continent in terms of moving goods,” stated KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube.

International ministers from Liberia, Eswatini, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Seychelles and Equatorial Guinea also participated in the Leaders Meeting, making a case for investment in their respective countries' infrastructure space.

“We have come to share with you, to learn with you and to communicate with you. We find that rapid technological advancement is significant and cannot be overstated,” stated Liberia's Minister of Ports and Telecommunications Sekou M. Kromah, adding, “As we experience the competitiveness of the digital age, it is imperative that our digital infrastructure is able to meet the demands of an ever-changing landscape.”

“The heads of infrastructure departments must always gather to discuss and help other countries that haven't been developed yet,” concluded Equatorial Guinea's Minister of Public Works, Housing and Town Planning, Don Pascual Ondo Nze Oyana.

SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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