MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
Wonderboom Performing At The Bands At The Beach Fest Tickets from Quicket With their vibrant and eclectic sound, Wonderboom, a South African music band, has left an indelible mark on the music scene. Formed in 1996 in Pretoria, the band consists of Cito on vocals and guitar, Martin Schofield on guitar, Wade Williams on bass, and …
Commission investigates conduct of Clover
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) announced that it was currently investigating Clover (PTY) Ltd for alleged contraventions of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA).
This comes after the dairy company informed the NCC that it has recalled 10 776 units of 400g of Go Nuts peanut butter following numerous tests that revealed higher levels of aflatoxin.
Aflatoxin is defined as a family of toxins produced by certain fungi found on crops such as maize, peanuts, cottonseed, and tree nuts.
The recall by Clover comes after the commission recently received five peanut butter recalls.
These include Pick ‘n Pay’s 1kg No Name, Dis-Chem’s Lifestyle Brand 400g and 800g of their smooth and crunchy, Wazoogles, Eat Naked, and Woolworths’ peanut butter dairy ice cream after these products failed to meet the acceptable levels of aflatoxin.
READ | Various peanut butter brands recalled
“Following these recalls, the NCC called on all producers, manufacturers, and suppliers of peanut butter, peanut butter-based products, and products containing peanuts to immediately test their products for aflatoxin levels and submit their results to the NCC,” the commission explained.
NCC Acting Commissioner, Thezi Mabuza, said the call for suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors of these products to immediately test their products for levels of aflatoxin has been an eye-opener.
“From the test results that were received by the commission, there is an indication that suppliers were not compliant with their protocols, and regulations. We are expecting suppliers, to be specific, the retailers, to immediately recall those brands that are non-compliant. This is to ensure that we protect South African consumers from any further harm,” she said on Friday.
Meanwhile, the NCC said it has made a decisive decision to get to the bottom of the challenge.
“Section 60 of the Act read with the NCC’s Product Recall Guidelines requires that the supplier or manufacturer upon discovering that safety has been compromised that a retailer or supplier must recall the affected product immediately and inform the regulators. Upon receiving the notification from Clover (PTY) Ltd, the commission assessed the recall and established some inconsistencies with the CPA,” Mabuza said.
Consumers who have Clover’s Go Nuts peanut 400g with the 12, 18, and 19 June 2025 and 19 July 2025 best-before dates are urged to stop consuming the product and return it to the point of purchase for a full refund.
The risk of consuming products with higher than acceptable levels of aflatoxin may lead to health complications like nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, the NCC said.
“South African consumers who have the recalled products must immediately stop consuming these products and return the products to a point of purchase for a full refund, with or without proof of purchase,” Mabuza added.
Clover said the quality and safety of its products remain a top priority.
“All affected batches of the product have already been removed from all stores countrywide. All other batches of our Go Nuts Peanut Butter product in stores are not affected by this recall and are 100% safe for consumption,” said Clover in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 03/10/2024 - 11:54
Child of SA woman in Senegalese prison comes home
The Department of Social Development has successfully repariated a toddler who was being held in a Dakar prison in Senegal.
The department’s social workers arrived at OR Tambo International Airport on Sunday with a two-year-old baby who was born in Senegal and has been in the care of the mother who was arrested last year for drug trafficking.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) through its International Social Services (ISS) Directorate notified the Department of Social Development in August 2023 that the biological mother of the child had been arrested last year in February.
“It is reported that within days of her incarceration, she gave birth to the child. Due to the mother’s incarceration, the child is considered to be in distress since prison is not a conducive environment for the upbringing of the child.”
The South African government through the DIRCO initiated the process of repatriating the child by first visiting the mother to ascertain her wishes about her child.
“The mother nominated the grandmother of the child as the guardian in the country while she serves her sentence in Senegal,” said the Department of Social Development (DSD) in a statement.
The National DSD then requested the Eastern Cape provincial department to investigate the circumstances of the nominated foster parent to assess suitability to care for the child.
“The child will be integrated with the mother’s family in the Eastern Cape and the department will continue providing child protection services and provide support to the family.”
The department said it was obligated by Section 7, subsection (1), (f), (ii), of the Children’s Act 38 of 2005 that a child needs to maintain a connection with their family, extended family, culture, or tradition and all decisions must be made in the best interest of the child.
Social Development Minister, Lindiwe Zulu, said the department will always put the best interest of the child first.
“However, we remain concerned about the issue of drugs and what it can do to children. This unborn baby ended up in distress in a foreign country because the mother was arrested for trafficking drugs. We cannot stress more the importance of young people to make the right decisions about their lives,” the Minister added.
Since 2015, the department has repatriated 21 children in distress in foreign countries.
According to the data, seven were repatriated in Zimbabwe; three in Brazil; two each in Malawi, Mozambique, Canada and Tanzania; and one each in Ghana, the United Kingdom, Peru, Mauritius and Senegal. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 03/10/2024 - 15:18
Police seize over R30 million worth of fake goods
The South African Police Service (SAPS) says it remains relentless in its efforts to uproot the illicit trade in counterfeit goods, as it has a detrimental impact on the economic growth of the country.
The police services’ National Counterfeit Unit led another integrated takedown operation in the Johannesburg CBD on Friday, which resulted in the seizure of counterfeit goods worth over R9 million.
The team comprised of SAPS members, officials from the South African Revenue Services (SARS), Gauteng Traffic, Brand Protectors, Crime Prevention Wardens and security companies.
During the operation, the team seized over 11 000 counterfeit items such as clothing apparel, shoes, watches, handbags and sunglasses.
“This was the third takedown operation in Gauteng province in the last four weeks,” the SAPS said in a statement.
In addition, the team also seized over R8 million worth of counterfeit goods during a takedown operation in Rustenburg, in the North West province last week.
“This brings the total value of counterfeit goods seized for the past four weeks to over R30 million.”
Illicit drugs
Meanwhile, in Bela-Bela, Limpopo, three male suspects aged between 38 and 43 years were arrested for the unlawful possession and dealing in illicit drugs in the early hours of Friday.
Acting on intelligence regarding illicit drug activities in Bela-Bela, the Waterberg District Illicit Mining Task Team conducted a swift and intelligence-driven operation resulting in the apprehension of these suspects.
During the operation, the SAPS said a 38-year-old South African male suspect was apprehended at his residence, where the police discovered 2 900 sachets of nyaope and about six 25 litres of diesel suspected to be stolen.
Meanwhile, two foreign nationals aged 43 and 34 years were intercepted in separate locations in Bela-Bela.
“They were found in possession of illicit drugs, including ninety sachets of crystal meth and nyaope.”
In Musina, the border policing team made significant arrests as part of Disruptive Operation Vala Umgodi at the Beitbridge port of entry.
“Five Zimbabwean nationals were apprehended and subsequently processed for direct deportation by Immigration Officers from the Department of Home Affairs.”
In a separate operation, members of the Mopani District Illicit Mining Task Team conducted thorough searches during Operation Vala Umgodi on the same day, leading to the seizure of multiple mining equipment in Myakayaka village.
This equipment are believed to be linked to illegal mining activities in the Maake policing area.
Furthermore, the SAPS confiscated drugs with an estimated street value of R90 000 during an intelligence-driven operation in Bela-Bela.
The arrested suspects are to appear before the Bela-Bela Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 11 March 2024.
“The South African Police Service is committed to combatting illegal activities and ensuring the safety and security of our communities.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 03/10/2024 - 14:21
In an era where sustainable energy is not just a preference but a necessity, South Africa stands on the brink of significant energy transitions. This necessitates a robust legal framework and solid financing strategies to effectively navigate the complexities of energy project development. In this article we examine critical legal considerations and strategies pivotal to …
Govt continues to support women-owned businesses
Government continues to provide targeted support for female-owned businesses to promote women’s sustainable participation in the economy, said Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa.
“The ultimate goal is for women to develop sustainable enterprises that contribute to the country’s gross domestic product, employment, equity and economic transformation to enable women to have equal access to and control over economic resources,” she said.
The Minister was delivering a keynote address at the 2024 Forbes Woman Africa Awards in Johannesburg on Friday.
She also touched on President Cyril Ramaphosa’s preferential procurement target announced in 2020 to accelerate the empowerment of women, youth and people with disabilities in business.
“This a strategy mapped out by government to allocate 40% of all procurement spend in the public sector towards businesses owned by women,” Ramokgopa explained.
“South Africa has set the precedence, now we need the rest of the continent to follow and lead in the capacitating of women-owned SMEs (small and medium enterprises).”
GBV
The Minister also used the platform to call on African leaders to take up the fight against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) and protect women, children, and other vulnerable groups.
“Beyond the change-makers in this room, our call for gender equality is more pressing for working class and poor women,” she said.
Ramokgopa believes that freedom and security remain significant aspects of gender equality.
Gender equality
The Minister said she was honoured to be joined by women across the world in celebrating International Women’s Day under the ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress’ theme.
This year marks 47 years since the United Nations (UN) officially recognised 8 March to celebrate the significant strides achieved by women and the broader women’s movement.
“This year is no exception as we amplify our global call for gender equality. We must be bold in our articulation that the empowerment of women requires the necessary financial, political, social, and institutional commitments from all sectors of society,” she stated.
This, she said, includes development financing, and creating an enabling legislative environment that supports gender equality.
She told delegates that the continent carries a rich history of women’s contributions to liberation and development such as Charlotte Maxeke, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Wangari Maathai, Graça Machel and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
“In 2024, the women of Africa enjoy hard-earned gains. However, more still needs to be done to accelerate the progress in advancing and protecting fundamental human rights. We dare not lower our voices.”
Women’s rights
Ramokgopa said South Africa has signed and ratified several treaties and instruments aimed at advancing women’s rights in several multilateral fora including the Maputo Protocol on the Rights of Women in Africa of 2003, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement.
“Although the agenda for gender equality and women’s empowerment in South Africa is advanced in comparison with many other countries, we remain committed to ensuring that the rest of Africa increases efforts to achieve gender equality.”
Ramokgopa also paid tribute to the women who have been brave in their pursuit of equality by occupying strategic positions across the continent and diaspora.
She mentioned the likes of 2019 Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi and those who are flying the African flag high including the Grammy-award winner singer and performer Tyla Seethal, Kenyan comedian Elsa Majimbo, local media personality Bonang Matheba and Nigerian award-winning writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
“As the African continent joins in celebrating South Africa’s 30 years of democracy and freedom, may we never trivialise the hard-earned gains of women under this dispensation.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 03/10/2024 - 12:53
The earth’s natural resources such as clean water, fossil fuels, and even arable land, are finite. This is why, if we are to preserve them for future generations, we have to use these resources efficiently and responsibly. Orrin Cottle, CEO of Brahman Hills, home to spectacular views and luxurious 4- and 5-star accommodation in the …
Wonderboom Performing At The Bands At The Beach Fest Tickets from Quicket With their vibrant and eclectic sound, Wonderboom, a South African music band, has left an indelible mark on the music scene. Formed in 1996 in Pretoria, the band consists of Cito on vocals and guitar, Martin Schofield on guitar, Wade Williams on bass, and …
“The last time we saw a drop of water coming out of the tap was about 15 years ago,” says villager
The Bhambatha Rebellion tells the story of the 1906 Zulu uprising against the cruel colonial poll tax which resulted in the imprisonment and death of thousands of Zulu warriors. This pivotal moment in history will be commemorated at KwaZulu-Natal South Coast’s Ntelezi Msani Heritage Centre – supported by South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) …
OCJ warns on impersonation of Deputy Chief Justice
The Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ) has warned the public about a scammer impersonating Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya.
The OCJ said the scammers are using Whatsapp to lure in unsuspecting victims.
“According to the information available to the OCJ, the individual sent a WhatsApp message to an OCJ official requesting contact numbers of Judges. The mobile number from which the message came is 072 324 9318 and is registered on the WhatsApp application as belonging to ‘Chief Justice MM Maya’.
“The public is warned not to fall prey to this impersonator and to be aware that impersonating a Judicial Officer is a criminal offence. The matter has already been reported to the South African Police Service.”
The office said members of the public and media are requested to contact the OCJ to verify the authenticity of any communication, directive, article, or social media post that purports to be that of a Judge. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 03/08/2024 - 12:11
By NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber (www.EnergyChamber.org)
South Africans don't want to breathe clean air in the dark. Energy woes are synonymous with South Africa right now.
As the country's fleet of mostly coal-powered plants struggles to keep up with electricity demand, South Africans are enduring daily power outages that last six to 10 hours a day.
With businesses and institutions struggling to function, and tension mounting among South Africa's people, the need for solutions is beyond urgent.
I say “solutions” because providing the reliable power that South Africa needs now, and ensuring that the growing country will have what it needs well into the future, will require multiple strategies.
As I've written, because of the country's current reliance on coal to fire its power plants — and coal mines to fuel the economy — increased coal usage must be one of those solutions for the time being.
South Africa also will need to continue building its renewable energy sector, and it has committed to do so in alignment with global goals to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
But perhaps one of the most impactful solutions will be natural gas, which not only can power reliable electricity generation but also is a clean energy source – one that can be monetized and one that supports economic diversification as a feedstock for chemical and fertilizer factories.
It only makes sense for South Africa to harness its massive – and largely untapped – reserves of natural gas. As described in the new African Energy Chamber (AEC) report, “The State of South African Energy,” cumulative output for South Africa's large-scale Brulpadda and Luiperd natural gas discoveries, when developed, are estimated to be 50,000 barrels per day (bpd) of liquids and 125,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd). South Africa must do what it takes to reach that point as quickly as possible.
During the 2023 African Energy Week in Cape Town, Gwede Mantashe, South African Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Stated, “In recognition of the continued role of the fossil fuels in supporting energy security and the fact that 82% of energy sources in the world are from these fossil fuels, Africa must intensify its efforts aimed at developing its oil and gas sector in order to benefit from the expected increase of natural gas market in global supply”. I agree, that's why South Africa should be encouraging ongoing oil and gas exploration through an enabling regulatory environment. Natural Gas financing and development again will be a key topic during African Energy 2024 scheduled for November 4th to 7th where I expect deals to be signed.
And we cannot forget the importance of natural gas projects in neighboring African countries, including Gigajoule's $550-million Matola Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Project in Mozambique, which will supply South Africa with gas; the 865-kilometer Rompco Gas Pipeline from Mozambique to South Africa; and Renergen's Virginia liquefied natural gas project in South Africa. These projects need to be fast-tracked.
Natural gas, if directed toward domestic markets and gas-fired electricity plants, can help South Africa find its way out of its current power crisis. Natural gas can also help ensure energy security and economic growth while the country transitions from fossil fuels to renewables for power generation. South Africa must move decisively to accelerate its gas agenda and start realizing these benefits.
Renewables Alone Will Not Save the Day
I've heard repeated arguments that South Africa's energy crisis is proof that now is the time for the country to move, at lightning speed, to renewable energy sources like wind and solar power.
As I've said more than once, South African can and should embrace solar and wind, but it also must consider the intermittency issues that come with them. They can't be counted on to provide electricity around the clock.
South Africa does not need more power fluctuations. It needs baseload power sources that can generate dependable power capable of consistently meeting demand. And the only way to get that is from coal and natural gas.
We also have to be realistic about the financial requirements for a complete transition to natural gas. Yes, South Africa's Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JET IP) is an excellent program, but as of yet, the money generated is a drop in the bucket. South Africa has acknowledged that it will need about $99 billion to pay for a full transition to renewable energy. Currently, it has received commitments for about $8.5 billion.
So, as South Africa pursues renewable energy, the logical approach would be to embrace natural gas as well. It can serve as a reliable energy source for the country's current and future needs, and as it's monetized, it can help generate revenue for South Africa's energy transition.
I was pleased to hear South African President Cyril Ramaphosa express that logic. He has made it clear that, while the country does plan to replace coal with lower-carbon alternatives, those alternatives will include both renewables and natural gas.
South Africa has an Integrated Resource Plan in place that calls for gas technology generating 6,000 megawatts (MW) from combined-cycle gas turbines, including 3,000 MW from LNG-to-power, 726 MW from gas-to-power, and 1,500 MW from non-specified gas.
This is doable, and it aligns with the AEC report's forecast for South African power generation during the next decade and beyond. While coal currently accounts for about 80% of power generation, coal usage likely will decrease to 65% by the end of the decade, our report says. Gas and renewables, meanwhile, will see growth around the same time: Natural gas will account for 5% of power generation in 2031, while onshore wind and solar photovoltaic (PV)-generated power will make up 17% and 7%, respectively. In the long term, natural gas, onshore wind, and solar PV are expected to increase to 15%, 30%, and 20%, respectively, making up 65% of total power generation.
It's Time for a Regulatory Rehaul
South Africa's commitment to pursuing these avenues is praiseworthy, but when it comes to harnessing natural gas, more work is needed.
I'm talking about government policies.
South Africa needs a regulatory environment that encourages ongoing investment and exploration by oil and gas companies. Consider the Orange Basin, where Namibia is seeing record-breaking discoveries that will ensure its energy security. But only 20% of the Orange Basin is in Namibia, while 80% of it is in South Africa. Now is the time to capitalize on the opportunity it offers.
Unfortunately, South Africa seems to be stuck: E&P is being hindered by unnecessary government red tape. We need to change that right away. Oil and gas companies already face tremendous pressure not to produce in Africa; this is no time to pile on the challenges.
The African Energy Chamber strongly urges South Africa to ease regulatory burdens on oil and gas companies. And we call upon South Africa to fast-track permit approvals for more drilling, seismic surveys, pipeline developments, and LNG terminal construction.
South Africa also needs to eliminate red tape that could slow the Brulpadda and Luiperd projects.
These steps will be critical for South Africa to start putting natural gas to work for its people, its businesses, and its communities.
Natural Gas Is a Reasonable Solution
Not surprisingly, if you consider the constant pressure Africa has faced in recent years to leave our fossil fuels in the ground, the prospect of pursuing gas-to-power projects in South Africa is being met with sharp resistance. “Dirty gas” is not the answer, environmentalists and Western voices insist.
I strongly disagree. We must be pragmatic: South Africa must harness every solution at its disposal, natural gas in particular, to address the country's energy needs.
Fortunately, President Ramaphosa has been pushing back against the anti-gas narrative as well.
"Countries on the African continent need to be able to explore and extract oil and gas in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner," Ramaphosa said earlier this year
during an address at the Investing in African Mining Indaba. "These resources are important for energy security, for social and economic development, and for reducing energy poverty on the continent. And we do not see this trajectory as being mutually exclusive to our focus on moving towards ensuring that we reduce our carbon footprint… In our onward march towards a low-carbon future it is critical that our efforts are both realistic and sustainable.”
Well said!
I would add that many of the environmental groups trying to keep people in the dark in South Africa – and across our continent – don't have the same struggles with energy security. In fact, in a move that balances environmental stewardship with energy security, the United States just approved an $8 billion drilling program in Alaska. If it's acceptable for wealthy countries to perform this balancing act, there's no reason why Africa's most industrialized nation cannot do the same.
Having clean air doesn't mean we have to be in the dark.
To read the State of South African Energy 2023, visit https://apo-opa.co/3T7wR6K.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
South Africa is facing a severe energy crisis with frequent power outages since 2007. As the largest state-owned enterprise and electricity supplier in the country, Eskom schedules power cuts across different regions at different times, leading to rotational load shedding throughout South Africa. In 2023, individuals endured up to 15 hours of daily load shedding, underscoring the urgent need for an energy transition.
To accelerate this transition, the largest energy event in Africa, Solar & Storage Live Africa, is set to take place at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa from March 18th to 20th. As a provider of solutions for load shedding, Hinen will showcase three specially designed backup solutions for the energy challenges in Africa, utilizing the abundant solar resources in the region to provide stable power support for homes and businesses.
The exhibited products range from 300W to 3000W in power capacity, and feature batteries that are expandable up to 17.5kWh. In addition, Hinen Max series is available in both low-voltage and high-voltage options to cater to a variety of electricity needs. These solutions not only convert solar energy into electricity in real time but also store excess power or harness electricity from the grid during periods of ample supply, ensuring sufficient power during outages and load shedding. With noise levels below 30dB, these products are quiet enough to not disturb sleep, and multiple layers of battery protection ensure safe and reliable power usage. Through the Hinen smart app, users can monitor energy consumption in real-time and easily manage electricity usage.
Hinen cordially invites industry partners and the public to visit our booth, A36, to learn more about our technology. We look forward not only to strengthening relationships with existing partners but also to exploring new cooperation opportunities, jointly promoting sustainable energy development in Africa and beyond.
To demonstrate our commitment to the local market, Hinen has established a branch office in Sandton, Johannesburg. This signifies our dedication to deepening our presence in the African market and providing localized services. We eagerly anticipate meeting you in Johannesburg as we explore a greener, more efficient, and sustainable energy future.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Hinen.
Email:
SAfrica@hinen.com
Phone:
010 449 2306
Address:
Ground floor, Block B, 100 West Street, Sandton, Johannesburg 2196, South Africa
Join Hinen in driving energy innovation forward — not only for Africa but for our shared home, Earth.
Dr Phil Mjwara honoured for promoting science, technology and innovation in SA
The Director-General of the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), Dr Phil Mjwara, has been honoured for his visionary leadership in promoting science in South Africa and abroad.
Mjwara received the Presidential Award during the annual South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Merit Awards in Cape Town on Thursday.
With 18 years of service as Director-General, Mjwara was lauded for having significantly contributed to the South African National System of Innovation (NSI).
Through these awards, the SAMRC said it acknowledges outstanding contributions to health research and recognises individuals who have demonstrated exceptional scientific acumen.
The awards recognise those who made innovative strides in addressing public health challenges, potentially influencing policy to enhance the well-being of all South Africans.
Mjwara holds a BSc, MSc and PhD from the University of the Witwatersrand and his academic career includes serving as a Professor of Science and Technology Policy at the University of Pretoria, and physics lectureships at the universities of the Witwatersrand, South Africa, and Fort Hare.
Speaking at the awards ceremony, SAMRC President Professor Glenda Gray said Mjwara had built a strong legacy in the country.
“In the late 1990s, Dr Mjwara led South Africa’s first national Science and Technology Foresight Exercise, which laid the foundation for the NSI,” the statement read.
Mjwara is also described as someone who is highly regarded in various global forums.
The Director-General is a senior member of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) International Basic Sciences Programme and the Square Kilometre Array Observatory Council.
Mjwara has also been lauded for formulating the STI Decadal Plan, which has elevated STI to the presidential level, with the first Presidential Plenary held last year.
This Decadal Plan, according to Gray, focuses on using STI to address societal challenges and highlights the importance of health research in the STI environment in South Africa.
“Dr Mjwara has set the vision for all policy development in the science and technology sector in South Africa. He saw the need to create sustainable programmes, infrastructure and human capacity to ensure that South Africa achieves excellence in critical areas of science and technology," Gray said.
The SAMRC also honoured the DSI’s Director for Health Innovation, Glaudina Loots, with a special award for her support and leadership in health research in the country.
Loots is responsible for the implementation of the health components of the Bio-economy Strategy for South Africa.
She has been instrumental in the creation of the Strategic Health Innovation Partnerships initiative at the SAMRC, which funds and manages innovation projects focused on the development of new drugs, treatments, vaccines, medical devices and prevention strategies.
Gray explained that medical research remains fundamental for transformation, innovation and collaboration in advancing scientific discovery.
“Celebrating medical research excellence not only honours the achievements of researchers but also inspires progress, fosters collaboration, and enhances the overall impact of scientific advancements on global health and well-being,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 03/08/2024 - 14:25
Top NBA Academy Africa Prospects Khaman Maluach and Ulrich Chomche Join BAL (www.BAL.NBA.com) Teams As Part of 2024 BAL Elevate Program; Fans Can Watch All Games Live on the NBA App (https://apo-opa.co/4a0Kzz0), NBA.com, BAL.NBA.com and the BAL's YouTube (www.youtube.com/@theBAL) Channel; Games Will Reach Fans in 214 Countries and Territories in 17 Languages; Tickets on Sale Now at BAL.NBA.com and Ticketmaster.co.za for the Games in Pretoria; Fans Can Save Up to 35% On Group Packages
The Basketball Africa League (BAL) today announced the 47 players from 10 countries (https://apo-opa.co/3TnVMnL) across Africa, Europe and the U.S. who will compete in the inaugural Kalahari Conference group phase from Saturday, March 9 – Sunday, March 17 at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria, South Africa, as well as the league's global broadcast distribution for the 2024 BAL season*.
The fourth BAL season will feature the top 12 club teams (https://apo-opa.co/3TnVMnL) from 12 African countries playing a record 48 games in Pretoria; Cairo, Egypt; Dakar, Senegal; and Kigali, Rwanda, marking the first BAL games in South Africa and the first time the league will play games in four different countries.
The four teams competing in the Kalahari Conference group phase – home team and three-time BAL participant Cape Town Tigers (South Africa), first-time BAL participant Dynamo Basketball Club (Burundi), first-time BAL participant FUS Rabat Basketball (Morocco) and 2022 BAL runner-up Petro de Luanda (Angola) – collectively feature four players with NBA and NBA G League experience, 11 former NCAA Division I players, four NBA Academy Africa prospects, four former Basketball Without Borders (BWB) campers, five players who have participated in the FIBA Basketball World Cup and 13 players with FIBA AfroBasket experience.
Top NBA Academy Africa prospects Khaman Maluach, a native of South Sudan who will play for the City Oilers (Uganda), and Ulrich Chomche, a native of Cameroon who will play for APR (Rwanda), are among the 12 NBA Academy Africa prospects who will compete in the 2024 BAL season as part of the third edition of the BAL Elevate program (https://apo-opa.co/42IkW3v). Maluach and Chomche previously participated in the 2022 and 2023 BAL seasons.
The 2024 BAL season will reach fans in 214 countries and territories in 17 languages through free-to-air and paid TV broadcast partnerships with the African Union of Broadcasting, American Forces Network (AFN), Canal+, NBA TV, Tencent Video, TSN, TV5 Monde, Visionary TV and Voice of America (VOA), and livestreaming on the NBA App (https://apo-opa.co/4a0Kzz0), NBA.com, BAL.NBA.com and the BAL's YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/43gfoxt) channel.
In the season opener, FUS Rabat Basketball will face Petro de Luanda at 4:00 p.m. CAT. In the second game, the Cape Town Tigers will take on Dynamo Basketball Club at 7:00 p.m. CAT. Tickets for the Kalahari Conference group phase in Pretoria are on sale now at BAL.NBA.com and Ticketmaster.co.za. Single game tickets for the Kalahari Conference group phase start at 75 ZAR. Fans can save up to 35% off single game ticket prices for group packages by emailing BalTickets@thebal.com. Fans who purchase tickets will also have free access to BAL Fan Zones at the arena in each market.
The 12 teams have been divided into three conferences of four teams each. Each conference will play a 12-game group phase during which each team will face the other three teams in its conference twice. New this season, the home team in each market will play on every gameday, including on the weekends. The Nile Conference group phase will take place from Friday, April 19 – Saturday, April 27 at Hassan Mostafa Indoor Sports Complex in Cairo. The Sahara Conference group phase will take place from Saturday, May 4 – Sunday, May 12 at the Dakar Arena in Dakar. The top two teams from each conference and the top two third-place teams from across the three conferences will travel to BK Arena in Kigali for four seeding games followed by an eight-game, single-elimination Playoffs and Finals from Friday, May 24 – Saturday, June 1.
Linked here (https://apo-opa.co/4bYS1MO) please find select Kalahari Conference group phase player and coach storylines, and here (https://apo-opa.co/4c62yps) please find complete details about the 2024 BAL season's global broadcast distribution. Rosters for the Nile Conference and Sahara Conference group phases will be announced at a later date.
*Rosters are subject to change and will be updated in real-time on the team roster pages on www.BAL.NBA.com
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Basketball Africa League (BAL).
Download here:
View Kalahari Conference Group Phase Rosters (https://apo-opa.co/3TnVMnL)
Basketball Africa League Season 4 Hype Video (https://apo-opa.co/3T9WdRj)
Contact:
Edwin Eselem
Basketball Africa League
+221 78 615 42 87
EEselem@theBAL.com
About the BAL:
The Basketball Africa League (BAL), a partnership between the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and NBA Africa, is a professional league featuring 12 club teams from across Africa that will tip off its fourth season in March 2024. Headquartered in Dakar, Senegal, the BAL builds on the foundation of club competitions FIBA Africa has organized across the continent and marks the NBA's first collaboration to operate a league outside North America. Fans can follow the BAL (@theBAL) on Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3IryMxW), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/48G8a76), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/49zyG3f), X, and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/43gfoxt) and register their interest in receiving more information at www.BAL.NBA.com.
MSC's R350m investment poised to boost KZN economy
The Mediterranean Shipping Company SA’s (MSC) R350 million investment in KwaZulu-Natal will go a long way in boosting the provincial economy and creating jobs for the local community.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, said this at the unveiling of MSC's new cold storage facility at Cator Manor in Chesterville, Durban.
Officially opened on Thursday night, the facility has the capacity to accommodate 10 000 pallets and is poised to meet the growing demands of the cold logistics market and ensure the preservation of temperature-sensitive goods, guaranteeing their quality during transit.
Delivering the keynote address, Dube-Ncube expressed her appreciation to MSC for choosing KZN as their investment destination of choice, noting the state-of-the-art facility represents an investment in the development and construction of a cutting-edge cold storage facility.
“The investment by MSC is not only a vote of confidence in our economy but it shows that if we work together as government and the private sector, there is so much we can achieve.
“The fact that MSC has invested R350 million in the construction and development of this cold storage facility, is a clear demonstration that you share our positive outlook for the future growth of KwaZulu-Natal,” Dube-Ncube said.
MSC South Africa Chairperson, Captain Salvatore Sarno, said the establishment of the cold storage facility underscores MSC's commitment to enhancing supply chain reliability for perishable goods, and playing a pivotal role in facilitating the international trade of temperature-sensitive products worldwide.
Sarno said South African exporters are set to benefit from a comprehensive logistics solution enabling their perishable products to reach global markets seamlessly via sea transport.
"We are proud to unveil this state-of-the-art cold storage facility, which not only reinforces our dedication to supporting the South African economy but also underscores our commitment to job creation and economic growth.
"This investment exemplifies our ongoing efforts to provide value-added services to our customers while contributing to the development of the local economy," Sarno said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 03/08/2024 - 12:07
Patel completes working visit to China
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel and a high-level delegation have completed a four-day working visit to Shanghai, Nanjing and Beijing to meet with government officials, investors and a number of Chinese electric vehicles and battery manufacturers.
Patel was hosted by his Chinese counterpart, Wang Wentao, the Chinese Minister of Commerce, at a bilateral meeting and working dinner during the visit.
The discussion reviewed trade relations and considered steps taken to implement agreements signed during President Xi Jinping’s State Visit in August 2023. New opportunities were also identified to strengthen economic ties. The leaders also discussed a possible Memorandum of Understanding on the automotive industry.
During his visit, Patel held bilateral meetings with eight Chinese companies, met six South African companies operating in China and undertook two factory site visits.
The SA delegation met with six potential Chinese investors in the electric vehicle value chain. Four are vehicle manufacturers, namely the Shanghai Automotive Industrial Corporation (SAIC), BYD Auto Manufacturers (the world’s largest electric vehicle producer), Foton Group and Beijing Automotive Industrial Group (BAIC).
The meetings were held with two battery producers: CATL - the world’s largest battery producer, and Gotion Hi-Tech International, who have a partnership with Volkswagen.
“The investors we met were very interested in the market particularly with commencement of trade by South Africa under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (the AfCFTA).
“I found them knowledgeable about local market conditions and keen to explore investment partnerships. This builds on positive sentiment we found in September last year in New York among American investors too,” Patel said.
China is the world’s leading producer of electric vehicles (EVs) and batteries. The visit provided Patel with an opportunity to present the South African automotive value proposition and government policy support to companies looking to invest in the South African automotive industry, particularly in EV manufacturing.
The SA automotive industry is supported by stable long-term policies, such as the South African Automotive Master Plan (SAAM) 2035 and a government support package for capital investment, and vehicle and component production.
The South African government released the Electric Vehicle White Paper in December last year. The paper outlines the country’s approach to supporting the transition to zero-emission vehicle production for the export and domestic market.
As part of the support for the transition, government has improved the automotive industry incentive package for electric vehicle production in South Africa. This includes increased investment support through a recently-announced tax measure.
The support from government ensures South Africa can compete in attracting vital investment into the industry that will facilitate the transition of this well-established sector to new energy vehicles. Access to export markets makes South Africa a more attractive investment destination.
Minister Patel also met investors in the steel and energy sectors and discussed their plans for the SA market.
The Minister was accompanied by senior officials from the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and the dtic.
China is currently South Africa’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade estimated at $34 billion (R556 billion) in 2022. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 03/08/2024 - 09:08
Lane closures on N3 in Durban
The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has advised motorists that the N3 highway between Westville Viaduct and Paradise Valley Interchange in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, will be subject to lane closures.
The road closures will start on Monday, 11 March 2024 to 22 March 2024, between the hours of 8pm and 4.30am.
This is to facilitate the repainting of lane markings and installation of road studs as part of the construction process for the N3 road upgrades from the Westville Viaduct to the Paradise Valley Interchange.
“The lane closures will take place on the east and westbound lanes of the N3 between Westville Viaduct (Pavilion Mall) and Paradise Valley Interchange (N3/M13 split). The Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), with the assistance of the contractor’s traffic accommodation team, will monitor and manage traffic during this period,” SANRAL’s Eastern Region Project Manager Jason Lowe said on Thursday.
Motorists have been urged to plan their trips and consider alternative routes to ensure safe and timeous arrival at their respective destinations, whilst adhering to speed limits.
“SANRAL apologises for any inconvenience caused during this period of road improvements and appeals to the motoring public to be patient and considerate on the road,” Lowe said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 03/08/2024 - 09:37
ACCRA: Wilka Mwatile’s resilient batting display, Kayleen Green’s remarkable three-wicket haul along with wet conditions at Achimota Senior Secondary School played...
Auditor-General red flags potential conflict of interest and oversight issues
As part of its Women in Energy series taking place this month, Energy Capital & Power (ECP) www.EnergyCapitalPower.com celebrates women in leadership positions within Africa's energy and mining sectors. With Senegal, Uganda, Namibia and South Africa at the helm of female leaders within their respective ministries, these markets have attracted billions in foreign investment and are home to some of the most dynamic upstream developments on the continent.
Since her appointment in November 2020, Sophie Gladima, Minister of Petroleum and Energies of Senegal, has led the country through one of its most transformative periods, with first oil and gas expected this year from the highly-anticipated Sangomar Field Development and Grand Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) LNG project, respectively. Minister Gladima successfully advanced these projects – which total nearly $10 billion in foreign direct investment – in the face of COVID-19 and demands for cross-border cooperation with Mauritania, whose maritime border with Senegal houses the GTA LNG project.
Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, Minister of Energy and Mineral Development of Uganda, is another female minister leading frontier market developments since her appointment in June 2021. Targeting first oil output in 2025, Uganda has launched exploration drilling at its $10-billion Lake Albert Development, home to the TotalEnergies-operated Tilenga and CNOOC-operated Kingfisher fields. The country is also at the center of the planned East African Crude Oil Pipeline, which will transport Ugandan oil to the Port of Tanga in Tanzania and represents the single largest investment in either country to date.
Serving as Petroleum Commissioner of Namibia's Ministry of Mines and Energy since October 2015, Maggy Shino has played a pivotal role in securing upstream investment from leading IOCs, with TotalEnergies set to invest roughly $300 million in 2024 alone. With over 15 years in petroleum geological, geophysical and environmental management fields, Commissioner Shino has cemented Namibia's status as a world-class frontier oil and gas market with strong on- and offshore prospectivity. Following five offshore hydrocarbon discoveries, Namibia is currently conducting further appraisal work – as well as new seismic and exploration activity in the Owambo, Kavango and Orange Basins – and is on the path to first oil production by 2030.
In neighboring South Africa, Deputy Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, has been active in driving an exploration agenda. Utilizing South Africa's Gas Master Plan, Dr. Nkabane has positioned natural gas as a means of improving energy security, reducing heavy-polluting fossil fuels and establishing domestic LNG production through recent discoveries like the 3.1-billion-cubic-feet Mpumalanga discovery. Under her leadership, South Africa's Department of Mineral Resources also implemented a school outreach program last month aimed at encouraging youth in STEM fields and developing a future workforce for the country's mining and energy sectors.
Energy Capital & Power's Women in Energy series celebrates the women shaping the future of the African energy sector. From projects to companies to programs and community development, the Women in Energy series underscores the integral role women play in developing the sector. Visit www.EnergyCapitalPower.com and keep up-to-date with our social media channels for daily content.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
Johannesburg, February — FAW Trucks South Africa, a key player in the global commercial vehicle manufacturing arena, reflects on a successful 2023 and charts an ambitious course for 2024 with strategic plans to reinforce its market presence and customer support. 1. Impressive 2023 Performance: Leading the Pack At the close of 2023, FAW Trucks SA …
Innovative businesses gain more access to global markets, study finds
Innovation-active South African businesses have more skilled labour and greater access to the global markets compared to non-innovation enterprises, according to results from the latest round of the South African Business Innovation Survey (BIS).
The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) survey revealed that during the 2019 to 2021 period, 62% of South African businesses took scientific, technological, organisational, financial, or commercial steps aimed at realising an innovation.
According to the statement, training emerged as the most common innovation activity for 47% of innovation-active businesses, followed by software and database activities (29%), and marketing initiatives (25%).
Of the employees involved in these innovation activities, only 38 in 100 workers were female and 62 in 100 were African.
In addition, the computer sector had the highest proportions of businesses with innovation activities and innovation.
“There remains significant scope for businesses in South Africa to undertake innovation activities that result in novel innovations, and do so in an inclusive manner.
“In South Africa, where we face multiple challenges, a more innovative business sector can contribute to productivity and business resilience as well as job creation, improved working conditions and quality of life," said the HSRC’s Dr Amy Kahn, who led the BIS.
South Africa’s BIS, covering the period between 2019 and 2021, examined the innovation activities in about 5 500 enterprises — from small to very large, and across a range of industries.
Among these innovation-active enterprises, 37% introduced both product and process innovations, while 23% had only product innovations and another 23% only process innovations.
The remaining 17% of innovation-active businesses either did not have innovations or abandoned their innovation projects by the end of 2021.
Among advanced and emerging technologies, the Internet of Things (IoT) technologies were most widely used or developed by 80% of all innovative businesses.
The IoT describes devices with sensors, processing ability, software and other technologies that connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet or other communications networks.
The survey report, prepared for the Department of Science and Innovation by the HSRC’s Centre for Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators (CeSTII), provides new evidence for policymakers to foster business innovation and offers new insights for business leaders and industry associations regarding the innovation landscape in South Africa.
“The innovation situation for all South African businesses should concern us, including why firms do or do not innovate,” added CeSTII Research Director, Dr Moses Sithole.
Meanwhile, high costs were a significant barrier to innovation for 27% of all businesses, the survey found, as well as too much competition (25%) and lack of funds (24%).
“Product and process innovations tended toward quality improvements, including enhanced working conditions, product quality, and overall quality of life and well-being, rather than cost-related outcomes,” explained Sithole.
The BIS report also delves into the distinct innovation practices of a wide range of South African businesses.
“The analysis conducted in this round of the Business Innovation Survey takes us significantly closer to understanding the South African business innovation practices that shift the needle. This informs how we should design support for greater business innovation in our country,” said Executive Head of CeSTII, Dr Glenda Kruss.
For example, HSRC said the survey highlighted that businesses without formal innovation processes, such as research and development (R&D), patenting or not collaborating with external entities, were more likely to abandon their innovation projects.
On the other hand, companies with the capability to develop their innovations in-house and more novel product innovations had the highest turnover in 2021.
Also, businesses more connected to global markets and with higher product innovation novelty held greater intellectual property rights.
“A fine-grained understanding of the patterns of innovation exhibited in South African businesses enables us to build the capabilities suited to South Africa’s context and its challenges.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 03/07/2024 - 14:48
Four foreign nationals, South African found guilty of fraud and corruption
Five people, including four foreign nationals and one South African national, have been found guilty of fraud and corruption by the Durban Magistrate’s Court.
Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said Tausi Majani Kahwere (25) and John Majani Kahwere (44), who are both Congolese, were convicted on Monday.
Other three accused, Morshed Alam (25), Saiful Islam Sujon (43), both Bangladeshi nationals and Oliver Whendle Hurriparsad (42), a South African national, were found guilty on Tuesday.
Mogale said the convictions follow a lengthy investigation by the National Serious Corruption Investigation, in collaboration with Department of Home Affairs' Counter Corruption in KwaZulu-Natal, which resulted in a lengthy trial until all the accused pleaded guilty.
It is reported that during 2021, a Department of Home Affairs official, Judy Zuma, operating with a foreign national’s syndicate, colluded with South African citizens to assist foreign nationals from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Democratic Republic of Congo to obtain South African passports by using their identity documents and biometrics.
“The foreign nationals fraudulently replaced the owners’ photos with theirs and assumed the names of the South African citizens. The official, Judy Zuma, has since pleaded guilty and convicted on 1 159 counts of fraud, corruption, contravention of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 and contravention of the Identification Act,” Mogale said.
Mogale said the foreign nationals were arrested between 2021 and 2023 as they were boarding flights to different destinations, and already gone through the airport processes.
The suspects were found guilty of all seven charges brought against them, including fraud; corruption: Contravention of Section 3, Act 12 f 2004; Contravention of Section 18 (1) (a) of the Identification Act, Act 68 of 1998; Contravention of Section 49 (7) of the Immigration Act, Act 13 of 2002; Corruption under Section 3, Act 12 of 2004; and Contravention of Section 18 (1) (a) (c) of Identification Act.
Mogale said the Congolese duo will be sentenced on Friday, while the trio will be sentenced on 21 May 2024, and Zuma will be sentenced on 05 April 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 03/07/2024 - 10:51