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Multifactor productivity has increased in South Africa. This emerged during the release of the 2023 National Productivity Statistics by the government agency tasking with productivity improvement and job creation, Productivity SA. Productivity SA is an entity of the Department of Employment and Labour, established in terms of section 31 of the Employment Services Act, No. …
Zeitz MOCAA has unveiled two new exhibitions for the summer in a sensational opening that marked the start of an exceptionally busy season for the institution. Focused on lens-based practices, Self as a Forgotten Monument is a solo, survey exhibition by renowned artist and photographer Mame-Diarra Niang while Seekers, Seers, Soothsayers is a group exhibition …
Economic Impact Assessment highlights inaugural season’s substantial impact on GDP, household income and employment 29 November 2023: The inaugural season of...
SASSA releases dates for December payments of social grants
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has released the payment dates for its various social grants over the festive period.
The older person’s grants will be paid from Friday this week, while disability grant beneficiaries will be paid from Monday next week.
“There is no need to rush to withdraw cash on the first day. Once the money is in the account, it will remain there until it is needed,” the agency said.
Here are all social grant payment dates for December:
• Older Persons/Pensioners' Grant: Friday, 1 December
• Disability Grant: Monday, 4 December
• Children’s Grant: Tuesday, 5 December
All grant beneficiaries are reminded that SASSA gold cards will not expire in December and will continue to work for grant payments beyond December 2023.
SASSA beneficiaries can receive their SASSA payments from selected supermarkets, such as Pick n Pay, Boxer, USave merchants, Checkers and Shoprite, and obtain this through their SASSA card or by getting the amount directly transferred into their bank account. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 10:49
EAST LONDON: Keegan Petersen struck his second half-century of the tour on day one of the second four-day match between South...
A Stakeholder Engagement event was held in Polokwane, Limpopo province, on 24 October 2023, where the International Youth Foundation (IYF) and De Beers Group collaborated to celebrate significant milestones achieved through their joint efforts in empowering the youth of that province via the Skills 4 Life Programme. IYF acknowledged the valuable contributions and collaborative endeavours …
Soweto landmark gets a new lease on life with a Heritage Hall and community shopping centre SOWETO, SOUTH AFRICA, 28 November 2023 – The iconic Eyethu Theatre in Soweto, home to one of the first black-owned cinemas in South Africa, has been revitalised and transformed into a contemporary community hub while preserving a local legacy …
Introduction In an era dominated by cloud computing, AWS Marketplace emerges as a pivotal platform, especially within the South African technological sphere. It stands not just as a tool but as a bridge, connecting businesses with the vast world of cloud-based solutions. What is AWS Marketplace? Amazon Web Services Marketplace is an innovative digital …
Men in blue set their sights on perpetrators
As the country marks the 16 Days of Activism of No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has highlighted the work of its men and women in blue who work tirelessly to put behind bars those involved in the abuse of women, children and vulnerable groups.
One such example is Warrant Officer Alistair Rezant who is attached to the Western Cape SAPS’s Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Investigations (FCS) unit.
With an overwhelming success rate, W/O Rezant has managed to secure a total of 1 105 years imprisonment sentence for rapists.
This year, the investigator secured a lengthy conviction for Riegard David Myburgh who was found guilty for numerous counts of rape and sexual assault charges. Myburgh is a paedophile who targeted young boys between 8 and 11 years of age between 2014 and 2019.
Because of Warrant Officer Rezant’s meticulous investigation, Myburgh’s name has been entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO) which records the names of persons who have been convicted of charges of sexual offences committed against a child or a mentally disabled person.
The member was also instrumental in securing the conviction of Mark Labuschagne who was a handyman at a retirement village in the Western Cape.
Labuschagne was sentenced to 15 years direct imprisonment for sexually assaulting an elderly women at the retirement village and for performing acts of self-masturbation in front of the elderly. His victims were aged between 70 and 96 years of age.
Labuschagne’s name was also recorded in both the Sexual Offences Register and the Abuse of Elderly Persons Register. In addition, he was declared unfit to possess a firearm and also unfit to work with children
The member has vowed to put more of such offenders behind bars.
“Cases related to GBV and sexual offences remains a priority for me. I always oppose bail applications for GBV perpetrators and ensure that all cases relating to rape and abuse are watertight so that they are not withdrawn at the court of law,” said W/O Rezant.
“These hefty sentences meted against sexual offenders should serve as a deterrent to would be offenders,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 11/28/2023 - 10:31
Forklift hire, a practical solution for businesses in South Africa that require material handling equipment on a temporary or project-specific basis, offers flexibility and cost efficiency. Hiring a forklift instead of purchasing can be a strategic choice for many businesses, particularly in a dynamic economic environment like South Africa’s. Benefits of Forklift Hire …
When considering forklifts for sale, it’s crucial to understand the different types and their specific applications. Each type has its own set of capabilities and is designed for particular environments and tasks. Warehouse Forklifts: Common in South African warehouses, these forklifts are ideal for loading and unloading goods from delivery vehicles and moving them …
Health welcomes latest HIV survey findings
The Department of Health has welcomed the results of the sixth South African National HIV Prevalence, Incidence, and Behaviour (SABSSM VI) survey released by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) on Monday.
The department believes the results will assist the country in strengthening the interventions in response to the epidemic.
“These show that the country is on track to achieve a new set of ambitious targets to ensure 95% of all people living with HIV know their HIV status, 95% of all people with diagnosed HIV infection receive sustained treatment, and 95% of all those on treatment have viral suppression by 2025.”
The department also welcomed the reduction in the percentage of all people living with HIV in South Africa from 14.0% in 2017 to 12.7% in 2022, which translates to almost 7.8 million people in 2022 compared to 7.9 million in 2017.
This, according to the department’s statement, can be attributed to collaborative efforts by various stakeholders involved and interventions introduced to curb the rate of transmission and treatment adherence.
“The results will also assist the department and stakeholders in resource mobilisation and allocation, especially in gaps identified to be in a better position to rearrange our landscape so that we plug the holes where the gaps are greatest.”
While the results show clearly that the prevalence of HIV is declining, the department said there were some worrying patterns regarding the age group from 25 and 49.
According to the latest data, the most pronounced differences in HIV prevalence by sex were seen among younger populations.
Among females, HIV prevalence was highest in ages 35 to 39 years at 34.2%, whereas among males, HIV prevalence was highest in ages 45 to 49 years at 27.1%.
“This requires us to change our tactics because this age band can be complicated to manage given the social and economic dynamics.”
The results, the statement said, support the case for the implementation of the differentiated model of care or Differentiated Service Delivery (DSD), which is a person-centred approach to HIV prevention, testing, and treatment.
The department explained that through the DSD approach, the services are tailored to meet the needs of the users.
“Lastly, we have also embarked on various prevention methods, which are also tailored for each population group. Since prevention is and will always be better than cure, we also offer prevention interventions within our public health services which include pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) male and female condoms and compatible water-based lubricant.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 11/28/2023 - 11:04
28 November 2023 King of the Whip 2023 produces yet another FMX spectacle at Montecasino. The 2023 Edition of the King of the Whip – Best Whip Contest – presented by LW Mag in association with Ford, Monster Energy, Yamaha, Garmin, Motul, GoPro and Estrella Cerveza, wowed a sold-out crowd at Montecasino, with Julien Vanstippen securing his second title. 26 Freestyle Motocross and Motocross athletes from all over …
Mashatile to lead World AIDS Day in KZN
Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Friday, 1 December 2023, lead the official commemoration of World AIDS Day and launch of the South African Chapter of the Global Alliance to End AIDS in Children.
According to the Deputy President’s office, the country’s second-in-charge will address the World AIDS Day event in his capacity as the Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC).
The event is scheduled to take place at Ngcedomhlophe Sports Field in the Mandeni Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal.
World AIDS Day is commemorated annually across the globe in solidarity with the millions of people living with HIV and to raise awareness about the status of the epidemic, to encourage HIV prevention, treatment and care.
The 2023 commemorations will focus on investing in and strengthening community-led interventions and community-centred approaches in the management of HIV.
“It further highlights the importance of greater involvement of civil society in strengthening accountability and empowering communities to be at the forefront of strategic interventions against stigma, discrimination and human rights violations of people affected and infected with HIV.”
South Africa, the Presidency said, joins the rest of the world in shining the light on the experiences of people living with HIV today, while celebrating the strength, resilience and diversity of the communities most affected.
Deputy President Mashatile will lead the commemoration event alongside the SANAC Civil Society Chairperson Steve Letsike, Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube, KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane and various sector leaders.
The event will be attended by members of the surrounding communities as well as representatives from development partners such as the United Nations agencies, the United States government, research entities, civil society movements and the private sector. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 11/28/2023 - 11:32
Work underway to clear hyacinth at Hartebeespoort Dam
The Department of Water and Sanitation is working tirelessly to ensure the efficient rehabilitation of the Hartebeespoort Dam.
The dam is affected by hyacinth and algae.
This is according to the Minister of Water and Sanitation Senzo Mchunu who spoke at the centenary celebrations of the dam on Monday.
Hartebeespoort Dam marked its 100 years of existence in September this year.
The centenary celebration aimed to increase the awareness of integrated water resource management and water quality, as well as enhance relations between government, the private sector, and the community towards ensuring effective integrated water resource management in and around the dam.
Mchunu, together with senior officials from the department’s entity in North West, Magalies Water and the Madibeng Local Municipality, led a community engagement, where they provided an update on the work being carried out to clear the hyacinth from the dam.
“We are aware of the hyacinth at the dam, and thus very concerned. It is for this reason that we have appointed our entity in North West, Magalies Water, for a period of three years to develop and implement a programme that will deal with the invasive plant and the algae that is infesting the dam,” Mchunu said.
Magalies Water has since developed a Bioremediation Plan comprising of interventions which include, the profiling and fingerprinting of problematic contaminants in the dam, removal of floating plants and debris from the dam to enhance the aesthetic value and allow for biogeochemical processes, as well as the implementation of the remediation technology to restore the dam’s ecological services.
Addressing hundreds of people who joined the department and partners to commemorate the centenary celebrations, Mchunu emphasised his commitment to overseeing the effective implementation of the Bioremediation Plan.
“I want to ascertain our commitment that we have indeed rolled up our sleeves to completely rehabilitate the dam. We also want to thank the organisations that continue to help out in any way they can and continue to hold us accountable in the work that we have been brought in the office to do,” Mchunu said, adding that everyone has a responsibility to ensure that the county’s water infrastructure is safeguarded.
He also reiterated the ministry’s stance on the need to strengthen and enhance strategic partnerships in the sector, which are aimed at resolving water quality challenges of the Hartbeespoort Dam, including issues of solid waste and water pollution in the dam.
“I would therefore like to encourage all civil society organisations to work together with us, as we work towards rehabilitating the dam.
The Hartebeespoort Dam was constructed in 1921 and commissioned in 1923 with the primary purpose of providing water for irrigation.
Approximately 80% of water is used for irrigation and the remainder is used for domestic consumption and compensation flows.
The dam itself and the surrounding area currently offers tourism activities such as recreational boating, angling, mountain sports and a variety of other activities such as hiking, angling, parasailing and abseiling.
The centenary celebration was held in partnership with Magalies Water, the provincial government, and various organisations, including the North West Parks and Tourism Board, South African Resource Heritage Agency, as well as Magalie-Biosphere. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 11/28/2023 - 15:01
Investment in teaching and learning infrastructure pays off
Gabi Khumalo
Government’s commitment to strengthening and developing the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) sector, has brought about change to the community of Msinga.
The community recently witnessed the opening of a new state-of-the-art campus of the uMgungundlovu Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College.
Officially opened by Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, the Msinga Campus which is located in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, is part of the response to the community, which has been calling for the building and upgrading of the college.
This commitment to strengthening the PSET sector was made through investing in infrastructure to provide quality teaching, learning and research, and innovation spaces.
The campus, which was built by the Department of Higher Education and Training, as part of its TVET Infrastructure Development Programme, is funded in part through the National Skills Fund (NSF) and the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA).
The R143 561 753.44 Msinga campus commenced with formal programme provision at the new site in January 2022. To date, the campus has three buildings.
These include the administration block that contains offices, a staff room, exam centre and the official reception site. The theory building consists of two computer laboratories that can accommodate up to 70 students each, and double sized classrooms. Included on the campus is an engineering block that consists of four workshops, as well as smaller skills venues on the upper floor.
Programmes offered
The campus offers National Accredited Technical Education Diploma (NATED) programmes, including Nated Public Management (N4-N6), Nated Business Management (N4 – N6) and Farming Management.
The campus also offers a new National Certificate Vocational programme in Mechatronics Level 2 – Level 4, which the Minister described as a cutting edge Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) programme.
The decision to offer this programme to the young people of Msinga according to Nzimande was because “we want this youth to be highly skilled and be able to compete at any level with the youth that is based in urban areas, including competing with the any youth at an international level.”
“Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary field that refers to the skill sets needed in the contemporary, advanced automated manufacturing industry. Mechatronics specialists work with massive industrial robots, smaller robots in pick-and-place operations, control systems for bottling or packaging of food and drink products, drones, designing control systems for rides in amusement parks, [and] prototype development.
“Some mechatronics specialists are employed in firms where it is necessary to design and maintain automatic equipment [and] this includes industries such as manufacturing, mining, aviation, robotics, defence, and transport. Other mechatronic specialists are employed by large manufacturing companies involved in high-volume production,” Nzimande explained.
Nzimande also highlighted that mechatronics is a financially lucrative career with the average mechatronic engineer earning around R360 000 per year or R185 per hour in South Africa. He said the entry-level positions start at R300 000 per year, while most experienced workers make up to R4 050 000 per year and more.
Investment
The Department of Higher Education and Training has identified the expansion of the TVET sector as a national priority in the Post-School Education and Training system. This as 13 new campuses have been identified for development with three existing campuses identified for additional buildings.
“We have embarked on this intense expansion programme to ensure that our post school education and training sector produce[s] many technical and vocational skills and to also reinvigorate the South African construction industry and the economy in general,” Nzimande said.
The department has invested over R2.880 billion in the development and refurbishment of 16 new TVET campuses that will enable the expansion of the TVET system over the medium term.
Of the 16 sites, 10 campuses, including Thabazimbi, Umzimkhulu, Graaf-Reinet, Nongoma Msinga, Aliwal North, Kwagqikazi, Ngqungqushe, Nkandla A and Bhambanani are completed.
Nzimande said the three new campuses, including Greytown, Sterkspruit and Balfour are at their final stages of completion, while the remaining three sites of Vryheid, Giyani and Nkandla B will be completed by the end of the 2023/24 financial year with enrolments planned for 2024/25.
Skills
The Minister reiterated the vision and objective for the public TVET colleges sector, which is to expand and strengthen the TVET sub-system in order to provide quality technical and vocational education and training to prepare students for the world of work, self-employment and other forms of sustainable livelihoods.
However, Nzimande acknowledged the constraints caused by skills ‘mismatches,’ --as being real and perceived-- towards the attainment of the TVET colleges’ objective, particularly the ability to grow the country’s economy, which further perpetuates a barrier to social inclusion and poverty reduction.
In response to this mismatch, the department has since developed a one country one skills plan – the Master Skills Plan, which is an implementation plan of the Human Resource Development Strategy.
“In order for our sector to invest in relevant skills development, we are also using the National List of Occupations in High Demand (OIHD) in South Africa, which is one of the many instruments that guides government’s investment in skills development.
“This list has 345 occupations that are in high demand [and] tells us which occupations are likely to have what vacancies and which occupations are likely to grow due to new investments, by both government and the private sector,” he said.
The Minister is confident that the skills that students will acquire at Msinga College, will take them to greater heights with prospects of a successful career.
To further illustrate government’s commitment to massify skills development, in 2018 the department embarked on a campaign to launch 26 Centres of Specialisation located in 19 of 50 TVET colleges prioritising 13 occupational trades in high demand.
This move aimed to curb the shortage of trade and occupational skills, while reducing unemployment and poverty.
The centres were provided with resources to upgrade their workshops and equipment to deliver effectively on much-needed skills.
“These Centres of Specialisation are well positioned to prepare students for the workplace, or for self-employment, through the maintenance of close working relationships with employers in their areas of study. We have also established entrepreneurship hubs at TVET Colleges to support students to move into self-employment after completion of their programmes.”
Artisans
Nzimande also believes that the country is well on track to produce 30 000 qualified artisans per year by 2030.
This follows the launch of the Decade of the Artisan campaign in 2013, which promotes artisanship as a career of choice for the youth.
Launched under the theme: “It’s cool to be a 21st Century Artisan”, the campaign ensures the development of the necessary artisans to successfully implement the country’s Strategic Infrastructure Projects, which include the construction of roads, schools, universities, harbours, power stations, and other social and economic infrastructure.
“The reality is that South Africa needs at least 60% of school leavers to pursue artisanal type training to meet the country’s demand for scarce skills. We honestly need to do more to encourage school leavers to pursue technical trades.
“Our Government’s National Development Plan (NDP) and our White Paper for Post-School Education and Training expects of us that by 2030, the country should be producing 30 000 qualified artisans per year. At present, our country is producing an average 20 000 qualified artisans per year,” Nzimande said.
He stressed the need to ensure that the number increase drastically leading up to 2030 for the country to realise the NDP target.
“We however do believe that we are well on track to attain this goal and even surpass it. The Msinga campus is very much part of this agenda and will help us greatly to produce more artisans.”
Nzimande said with the current challenges within different sectors in society, more artisans are needed than ever before and the work of artisans will always be guaranteed.
Progress made to date, shows that government is burning the candle at both ends. – SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 11/28/2023 - 15:37
In South Africa, the property development and management sectors are integral to the real estate market, each playing a critical and interconnected role. The Role of Property Developers Property developers in South Africa are pivotal in creating new real estate opportunities. They are involved in scouting, purchasing, developing, and managing a range of projects …
The role of men important in ending GBVF – President Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the role of men as an increasingly influential force in making the Convention to End Violence Against Women and Girls a tangible achievement throughout Africa.
The President was delivering remarks at the 3rd African Union Men's Conference on Positive Masculinity, held in Pretoria on Tuesday.
The conference is taking place in the week that the annual campaign of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence commences across the globe.
“Let us build on the gains of the first two conferences to birth a new Africa that affirms the human dignity, equality and worth of every African woman and girl. Let us leave no man and boy behind in this journey.
“Together, as an expanding circle of champions, we will make the Convention to End Violence Against Women and Girls a reality in our beloved Africa,” the President said.
The President said what makes this conference exceptional is that the main focus is on the role of men and boys in bringing about a world free of gender-based violence.
“We are here because we know that men and boys must be at the forefront of change. We are here because we know there is an alternative to a society, a continent and a world where women are oppressed, discriminated against and their rights suppressed.
“We seek a world in which every African man, woman and child can live in true freedom and equality with their rights respected, upheld and advanced. We know that such a world is within our reach if we focus on the prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls,” he said.
President Ramaphosa emphasised that we cannot realise a society free of gender-based violence without critically interrogating the assumptions around patriarchy, male chauvinism and sexism.
It is these assumptions, he said, that lead young men and boys to believe that women are property; that they are worth less than a man, and that they are deserving of ill-treatment.
“This is a conversation that men need to have. Men are in the main the perpetrators of violence against women and girls. At the same time, it is men who have the power to bring about the change we so sorely need.
“The unity, self-reliance, self-determination, freedom, progress and prosperity we collectively strive towards under the AU’s Agenda 2063 are being undermined by gender-based violence,” he said.
The President said such violence is eroding our gains, stunting our continent’s development and leaving more than half of Africa’s population in a state of anxiety and fear.
He said this conference is about promoting positive masculinity as well as challenging traditional stereotypes with being a man.
He said it involves redefining the norms and expectations placed on men.
The President highlighted that positive masculinity encourages men to embrace qualities such as empathy, vulnerability, emotional intelligence and respect for diversity.
Earlier this year, the President convened the Presidential Young Men and Boys’ Indaba in Soweto in Johannesburg.
He had the opportunity to talk with a group of young men who see themselves as changemakers in the fight against gender-based violence.
“These young men face a lot of pressures that affect their attitudes to women and girls. These include the lack of positive male role models, absentee fathers, vulnerability to recruitment by criminals, pressure to drop out of school and earn a living, and pressure to become sexually active before they are ready to.
“These young men, who exhibit or seek to learn positive masculinity, are tired of being seen as the problem, when they want to be part of the solution.
“This is why it is so important that a conference such as this brings us together to look at how we can create more spaces for young men and boys to engage among their peers without fear of judgment,” he said.
The President highlighted that South Africa has a number of initiatives, programmes and dialogues that are elevating the importance of positive masculinity as part of the fight against gender-based violence.
These programmes are run among athletes and artists, workers and students. They are often implemented in partnership with business, unions and other social partners.
“What these programmes show is that while men are the main perpetrators of violence against women and children, men can also be at the forefront of bringing about a new society that respects the equal rights of women and girls. This has been recognised across the African continent.
“This conference is now in its third year. The AU Circle of Champions has been established, and work is underway towards an African Convention to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” the President said.
He told delegates that this conference is an opportunity to consolidate political commitment, accelerate collective efforts and define men’s contribution to ending violence against women and girls.
As South Africa, working with fellow leaders on the continent, the President stressed the importance of an all-of-society approach that brings together business, labour, government and civil society to promote positive masculinity.
He said this enables us to develop a common vision and roadmap, and build structures throughout society.
The President further emphasised that there is a need to step up the prevention agenda.
He said the Circle of Champions must continue to inspire high-level leadership in ending violence against women and girls.
He called for the renewed support for the AU Commission in ensuring the Maputo Protocol Scorecard and Index for the realisation of women’s rights is popularised and implemented.
“As we move ahead in negotiating an African Convention on Ending Violence against Women and Girls, we must ensure there is accountability through monitoring and evaluating progress in meeting the commitments of the Kinshasa Declaration.
“Lastly, we have to address structural inequality by broadening women’s access to resources, jobs and opportunities, all the while introducing laws, policies and programmes that advance women’s economic empowerment,” he said.
The President said that he has great expectations of this conference.
“We must be creative, innovative and resolute when it comes to the design and implementation of dialogue, safe spaces and other initiatives that enable men and boys to become more involved in this effort.
“Let us learn from each other and share best practice. Let us understand how what works in one context could be adapted to work in another. Let us look at how we can fund this work in an economically constrained environment.
“There is one thing on which we agree: positive masculinity can and must be harnessed as a powerful force for good,” he said.
The President concluded that ending violence against women and girls everywhere is a collective responsibility as society, but when it comes to the participation of men, the onus is even greater.
“We owe it to the women and girls of our continent to be better men, better fathers, better caregivers, better partners and better sons,” he said. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 11/28/2023 - 14:42
EcoFlow (https://apo-opa.co/47Nemde) (www.EcoFlow.com), a leading company of eco-friendly and sustainable energy solutions, achieved remarkable success during the 2023 Black Friday sales. On Takealot (https://apo-opa.co/3QXcqIn), South Africa's leading online store, EcoFlow secured its top position in the portable power station category, and cemented its place among the top ten brands in overall sales, affirming its leadership in sustainable energy.
"EcoFlow appreciates the trust and choice of every user. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow has steadfastly pursued the vision of 'Power a new world,' creating intelligent, user-friendly, and sustainable power solutions", said by Joy Wu, Head of LAMEA & APAC at EcoFlow.
This marked the first time EcoFlow participated in Black Friday sales in South Africa, and its outstanding performance culminated in the top position in the portable power station category on Takealot.
Moreover, EcoFlow claimed the sixth spot in the overall brand rankings for gross merchandise value. Among the top 10 items sold by gross merchandise value, EcoFlow DELTA 2 Portable Power Station (https://apo-opa.co/3N5IcSt) secured the third position. Notably, EcoFlow is the exclusive brand in the portable power stations and energy solutions category to achieve such recognition.
EcoFlow also delivered excellent results across various sales channels, including more than a thousand retailer stores and online stores, such as Incredible Connection, Makro, Builders, Hirsch's and EcoFlow official website, witnessing an overall sales growth of 200% compared to the previous sales period.
EcoFlow Portable Power Stations(PPS) (https://apo-opa.co/47vcg27), including the EcoFlow RIVER and EcoFlow DELTA series, have gained significant traction in the South African market due to technological innovation and superior performance.
Distinguished by its extreme portability, minimal maintenance, silent operation, and eco-friendly energy, EcoFlow PPS provides a safe and reliable household power supply solution. Additionally, its industry-leading fast-charging technology and exceptional user experience have earned the trust of over 2.5 million users across 100+ global markets.
In addressing South Africa's immediate challenges with Load Shedding, EcoFlow PPS showcased flexibility by seamlessly integrating with Solar Panels (https://apo-opa.co/3N7TaH5), Transfer Switches, and other products in the EcoFlow ecosystem. This empowers households to achieve an intelligent and reliable sustainable backup power supply in the face of an unstable main grid.
To provide efficient and dependable support to the users in South Africa, EcoFlow has established a robust after-sales service system. Locally-based hotline and email customer service guarantee swift responses within 48 hours. In case of repairs, EcoFlow is dedicated to concluding the repair process and dispatching the serviced product within 3-5 working days.
The 2023 Black Friday event featured the best selling EcoFlow DELTA 2 and RIVER 2 series portable power stations. Equipped with LFP batteries boasting a 3000-cycle lifespan and backed by a 5-year warranty, DELTA 2 and RIVER 2 series ensure a secure power experience for the next decade. As a token of gratitude, the historic price reductions of up to 47% off will extend to this December for the best buying opportunity for more users.
Looking ahead, EcoFlow remains committed to prioritizing user experience and continuous innovation for greater solutions. The company envisions incorporating clean energy into the future lives of more individuals and families.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of EcoFlow.
Media Contact:
Orange Lin
EcoFlow Communications Manager, South Africa
orange.lin@ecoflow.com
About EcoFlow:
EcoFlow is a leading eco-friendly energy solutions company with the vision to power a new world. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow aims to become a reliable and trusted energy companion for individuals and families across the world, providing accessible and renewable power solutions at home, outdoors, and in mobile spaces. Today, with operational headquarters located in the USA, Germany, and Japan, EcoFlow has empowered more than 2.5 million users in over 100 markets worldwide.
Government announces new awards for arts, culture sector
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa has announced that government will be hosting an all-encompassing awards ceremony to recognise those who exhibit outstanding artistic and technical achievement in the arts and culture sector.
“The creativity and imagination of the South African designers, artists, producers, writers, and performers are continuing to shine the light on the global stage and driving the growth of our creative economy,” Kodwa said on Tuesday in Pretoria.
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture intends to confer South African Creative Arts Awards (SACA) annually in appreciation of the outstanding contributions to the creative sector.
“This is another way in which government is developing a participatory cultural platform by supporting artists and arts and culture initiatives, as essential elements to stimulate the growth of the country’s creative economy.
“These are creatives from across cultural domains that push the boundaries of their creative ability and show devotion to excellence with uncompromising quality, ground-breaking creativity and relentless innovation that defines those that are outstanding from the best.
“The South African Creative Arts Awards are for creatives from across cultural domains who push boundaries of their creative ability and show devotion to excellence,” the Minister said.
The launch date for the SACA will be announced in due course.
Meanwhile, South Africa will be hosting the 2024 International Cricket Council (ICC) Under 19 Cricket World Cup from 20 January to 11 February 2024.
The event was initially scheduled to take place in Sri Lanka, however, the ICC Board decided to move this tournament from Sri Lanka and awarded it to South Africa.
“The move was taken as a consequence of the ICC provisionally suspending Sri Lanka Cricket due to extensive government interference in the board's administration. Sixteen countries are expected to participate. No government funding is required. The International Cricket Council and Cricket South Africa will provide funding for the tournament,” Kodwa said.
The event will take place at the following venues:
2027 Netball World Cup
With preparations for South Africa’s participation in the 2027 Netball World Cup underway, the Minister also announced the appointment of an Independent Advisory Panel on Netball Professionalisation, which will ensure the development, sustainability, and competitiveness of netball.
The Independent Advisory Panel has been appointed with the objective of developing a blueprint for the development of Netball in the country.
The panel will be expected to review netball’s strategy and increase Mass Participation to ensure Netball becomes a sport of first choice in communities.
Furthermore, the panel will ensure the national league as a commercial product and that it generates revenue for the system that increases the broadcast value and aids professionalization.
It is also responsible for achieving excellence in the international rankings at major international competitions as well as dealing with matters pertaining to governance and finance.
The following are members of the Independent Advisory Panel on Netball:
Board of Boxing SA
The current term of the Board of Boxing South Africa expires on 11 December 2023.
The Minister thanked the outgoing board members for the work that they have done during the period.
He also announced the appointment of the following new members of the Board of Boxing SA with effect from 12 December 2023 until 11 December 2026:
The World Anti-Doping Authority (WADA) has once again awarded South Africa with the hosting of the its Africa Regional office. This office is currently hosted in Cape Town and will continue to be based in Cape Town.
“In April 2023, WADA published a call for Expressions of Interest to host its Africa Office. Three countries, namely Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa, formally expressed interest and submitted a candidate file. Evaluation visits took place in these three countries at the beginning of October 2023,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
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Tue, 11/28/2023 - 13:04
While South African schoolchildren eagerly anticipate the end-of-year holiday, for many this is a six-week break without regular daily meals. To bridge this nutritional gap, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN)-based NPO, Zero2Five Trust has partnered with Durban’s Victor Daitz Foundation to implement a holiday nutrition and fun programme for more than 4 000 families in rural areas of …
The concept of investment typically conjures images of urban real estate, stocks, and bonds. However, the allure of the African savanna, known colloquially as “The Bush”, presents an unconventional yet profoundly impactful investment opportunity. The rugged, untamed wilderness areas of the Mpumalanga Lowveld spring to mind when one hears someone say, “We’re off to our …
The U.S. Commercial Service and the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) have announced a new strategic collaboration in a move to drive digital transformation across Africa.
Unveiled on the sidelines of the Africa Tech Festival held in Cape Town, South Africa, this collaboration paves the way for a series of dialogues on how U.S. digital innovation can support development goals across Africa.
The discussions will focus on key themes such as embracing new technologies, improving internet access, enhancing skills, and creating a regulatory environment conducive to innovation. Both parties will explore how African governments can collaborate with American technology firms to grow their economies and how U.S. businesses can tap into new opportunities in Africa's emerging markets.
Ashley Ndir, senior U.S. Commercial Liaison to the African Development Bank, emphasized, "We are at a turning point in Africa's technological advancement. By bridging insights from the U.S. private sector with Africa's vibrant markets, we aim to drive innovation and economic growth. This partnership is a testament to that mission."
Head of ICT Operations Nicholas Williams from the African Development Bank said, "Africa has made significant investments in pivotal infrastructure and policy enhancements to create an innovative digital economy. As Africa's premier development finance institution, the African Development Bank will help push Africa's digital boundaries even further by forging strategic relations, building on historical investments and, more importantly, tapping into the energy of our young population, who are digital natives. We value the insights that the U.S. private sector may bring."
The initiative builds on the African Development Bank's $2 billion investment in digital infrastructure, which includes regional and national broadband development, creating favourable policy environments for private sector investments, scaling digital skills, and nurturing innovative enterprises. The Bank's efforts have reduced the cost of internet access, enhanced digital literacy, and fostered a conducive business and policy environment. It will also benefit from the U.S. Commercial Service's experience in fostering international trade. This collaboration promises to champion the digital transformation in Africa, aiming for a future where technology empowers growth and prosperity. With this partnership, both the U.S. Commercial Service and the African Development Bank reaffirm their commitment to not only elevate digital capabilities in Africa but also to ensure that the continent's potential is fully realized in the digital era.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
Media contact:
Communication and External Relations Department
media@afdb.org
Technical contacts:
African Development Bank:
Uyoyo Edosio
u.edosio@afdb.org
US Government Contact:
Ashley Ndir
Senior Commercial Liaison to the AfDB
Ashley.Ndir@trade.gov
About the U.S. International Trade Administration:
The U.S. Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration (ITA) strengthens U.S. competitiveness by promoting U.S. export opportunities in global markets. Our trade experts serve in over 100 U.S. cities and 80 international markets through the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service. Our U.S. Commercial Service Liaison office to the African Development Bank (AfDB) supports U.S. private sector engagement with the AfDB.
About the African Development Bank:
The African Development Bank (AfDB) (www.AfDB.org) has approved $2 billion in loans, grants, and equity investments for ICT projects in the past decade. These initiatives focus on regional and national broadband infrastructure development, creating favourable policy environments for private sector investments, scaling digital skills, and nurturing innovative enterprises. The AfDB's efforts have reduced the cost of internet access, enhanced digital literacy, and fostered a conducive business and policy environment.
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa has announced the dates and host venues for the National Youth Weeks, a series of tournaments...