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Tuesday, 14 November 2023: Leading Pan-African bank, Absa, in partnership with Urban Harvest, is proud to announce the provision of another sustainable garden as part of the bank’s Possibilities Unearthed initiative. Groutville High School in KwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal, has received the much-needed garden. The partnership with Urban Harvest showcases Absa’s commitment to being a force for …
TSHWANE: The Cricket South Africa (CSA) and South African Sports Association for the Intellectually Impaired (SASA II) Trination Series featuring South Africa,...
Three suspects arrested for child pornography
The South African Police Service (SAPS) Serial and Electronic Crime Investigations (SECI) unit has, in collaboration with the USA Department of Homelands Security, arrested three child online sexual predators in Gauteng.
The trio was arrested in a simultaneous takedown operation in the past week, relating to a number of suspects who were identified as South African users who are involved in the possession, distribution, manufacturing, accessing and downloading of child pornography.
Members of the SECI at Head Office and in Gauteng conducted the preliminary investigations on the users, and various provinces were identified where the suspects reside.
After several months of investigation and planning by SECI, perpetrators were identified in Gauteng and a joint Operation was planned.
In Springs, Gauteng police arrested a 63-year-old male British citizen, who was found to be in the country illegally. The suspect faces offences related to bestiality. Other offences are related to child pornography such as possession and distribution of child pornography.
The second suspect, who is a 43-year-old South African male, was arrested in Benoni, Gauteng. The suspect also faces offences relating to child pornography.
The third suspect, a 43-year-old South African male, suspect was arrested in Krugersdorp, Gauteng. He too faces charges relating to child pornography.
As a result of these operations, three South African children, who were used during the commission of the above offences, were identified and a dog was saved.
The operations will continue throughout the country to unravel a network of child sexual predators.
The trio has already appeared before various courts including Springs, Benoni and Krugersdorp Magistrates Court in Gauteng on Monday. Their cases were postponed for further investigation and bail applications.
SECI is a unit within the Detectives divisions under the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Investigations (FCS) unit. The unit members are responsible for investigating, tracing and apprehending serial rapists and electronic crimes relating to online child sexual exploitation. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 11/14/2023 - 10:49
Zeitz MOCAA unveils two new exhibitions for summer, marking 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 celebrated self-taught artist and photographer Mame-Diarra Niang while Seekers, Seers, Soothsayers is a group exhibition. The shows and accompanying programming solidify …
Tourism safety a top priority
The National Tourism Safety Strategy is aimed at fostering a public-private sector partnership to address issues of tourism safety in a more coordinated manner.
“The measures aim to provide an enhanced visitor experience and in the long-term, change perceptions of South Africa as an unsafe destination,” Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said on Tuesday.
She was addressing members of the Diplomatic Corps in Pretoria on tourism safety issues.
De Lille explained that the National Tourism Safety Strategy is centered on three key themes which include proactive measures, responsive measures and aftercare programmes.
“It is about putting in place mechanisms to ensure that tourists, both domestic and international, feel safe even before arriving at the destination,” she said, adding that the mechanisms seek to ensure quick and effective turnaround time to attend to tourists in distress should an incident of crime occur.
“This is about stakeholder coordination and communication in terms of messaging and protocols to follow. We have since set up a committee led by the private sector under Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) to develop clear Crisis Management Communications Plan and Protocols.
“This will ensure that there are clear protocols in place during an incident and that the messaging is same,” de Lille said.
The department has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the South African Police Services (SAPS) on collaboration towards the prevention, investigation and combating of crimes impacting on the tourism industry and the safety and well-being of tourists.
“The MoU Action Plan is being implemented through the Tourism Safety Technical Committee comprising of the Department of Tourism and SAPS. The MoU is currently undergoing revision to ensure that other initiatives being implemented with private sector on safety and security are considered and strengthened.
“The action plan incorporates both initiatives identified by the Department and by the South African Police Services and to be handled at a bilateral level,” the Minister said.
The Tourism Monitors Programme (TMP) is part of the broader government intervention that involves training, mentorship and deployment of unemployed youth in identified tourism attractions and sites.
“Government has invested R174 Million for the deployment of Tourism Monitors in this financial year. The key objectives of the programme include: enhancing tourism safety awareness at key tourism attractions and sites, upskilling of unemployed youth and reducing tourist vulnerabilities.”
The Minister said the department will deploy 2 300 Tourism Monitors nationally in entities managed by the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) Gardens, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Ezemvelo Nature Reserve, in the national parks managed by the South African National Parks (SANParks), and at airports managed by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA). – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 11/14/2023 - 15:12
Check Point® Software Technologies Ltd. (https://www.CheckPoint.com/), a global leader in cybersecurity solutions, has released its Global Threat Index for October 2023, unveiling an alarming trend in cyber threats. The Remote Access Trojan (RAT) NJRat has dramatically risen from sixth to second place, with a particular focus on targeting government agencies and organizations in the Middle East and Africa. This escalation in cyber threats has been particularly severe in Africa, with Mauritius ranking 6th, Nigeria 11th, Morocco 15th, and Kenya 25th in terms of being targeted and attacked. South Africa follows, ranking 55th globally.
Download document: https://apo-opa.co/3MHq2pZ
In addition, the report highlights the expanding reach of the sophisticated RAT AgentTesla, driven by a new and complex mal-spam campaign using corrupted email attachments. The education sector continues to be the prime target, underscoring the ongoing vulnerability of this industry to cyber attacks.
Last month, AgentTesla was found being disseminated through archive files that contained a malicious Microsoft Compiled HTML Help (.CHM) extension. These files, disguised as typical order and shipment documents, were distributed via emails with .GZ or .zip attachments, tricking recipients into downloading the malware. Once installed, AgentTesla exhibits a range of harmful capabilities, including keylogging, capturing clipboard data, accessing file systems, and secretly transmitting stolen data to a Command and Control (C&C) server.
"We cannot overlook the sophisticated tactics used by hackers to distribute malware, such as impersonating trusted brands or using malicious email attachments,” said Rudi van Rooyen, Sales Engineer at Check Point Software. “As we enter the busy shopping season in November, it's crucial to stay alert. Cybercriminals are taking advantage of the increased online shopping activity, and no region, including Africa, is immune to these threats."
CPR also revealed that “Zyxel ZyWALL Command Injection (CVE-2023-28771)” was the most exploited vulnerability, impacting 42% of organizations globally, followed by “Command Injection Over HTTP” which impacts 42% of organizations worldwide. “Web Servers Malicious URL Directory Traversal” was the third most used vulnerability, with a global impact of 42%.
Top malware families and their impact in Africa
*The arrows relate to the change in rank compared to the previous month.
Formbook was the most prevalent malware last month with an impact of 3% worldwide organizations, followed by NJRat with a global impact of 2%, and Remcos with a global impact of 2%.
1. ↔ Formbook – Formbook is an Infostealer targeting the Windows OS and was first detected in 2016. It is marketed as Malware as a Service (MaaS) in underground hacking forums for its strong evasion techniques and relatively low price. FormBook harvests credentials from various web browsers, collects screenshots, monitors and logs keystrokes, and can download and execute files according to orders from its C&C. Its impact in Kenya and Nigeria is significant at 16.9% and 9.2% respectively, while impact in South Africa is lower at 3%.
2. ↑ NJRat – NJRat is a remote accesses Trojan, targeting mainly government agencies and organizations in the Middle East. The Trojan has first emerged in 2012 and has multiple capabilities: capturing keystrokes, accessing the victim's camera, stealing credentials stored in browsers, uploading and downloading files, performing process and file manipulations, and viewing the victim's desktop. NJRat infects victims via phishing attacks and drive-by downloads, and propagates through infected USB keys or networked drives, with the support of Command & Control server software. NJRat's impact in South Africa is just above 2% while Morrocco is at 8%.
3. ↓ Remcos – Remcos is a RAT that first appeared in the wild in 2016. Remcos distributes itself through malicious Microsoft Office documents, which are attached to SPAM emails, and is designed to bypass Microsoft Windows UAC security and execute malware with high-level privileges. While its presence globally is concerning, Remcos has not made a a significant appearance in Africa.
Top Attacked Industries in Africa
Last month Education/Research remained in first place as the most attacked industry globally, followed by Communications and Government/Military. However, in Africa the top industries that came under attack are:
1. Communications
2. ISP/MSP
3. Finance and Banking
4. Government and Military
Top exploited vulnerabilities
Last month, “Zyxel ZyWALL Command Injection (CVE-2023-28771)” was the most exploited vulnerability, impacting 42% of organizations globally, followed by “Command Injection Over HTTP” which impacts 42% of organizations worldwide. “Web Servers Malicious URL Directory Traversal” was the third most used vulnerability, with a global impact of 42%.
1. ↑ Zyxel ZyWALL Command Injection (CVE-2023-28771) - A command injection vulnerability exists in Zyxel ZyWALL. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability would allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary OS commands in the affected system.
2. ↔ Command Injection Over HTTP (CVE-2021-43936, CVE-2022-24086) - A command Injection over HTTP vulnerability has been reported. A remote attacker can exploit this issue by sending a specially crafted request to the victim. Successful exploitation would allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the target machine.
3. ↓ Web Servers Malicious URL Directory Traversal (CVE-2010-4598,CVE-2011-2474,CVE-2014-0130,CVE-2014-0780,CVE-2015-0666,CVE-2015-4068,CVE-2015-7254,CVE-2016-4523,CVE-2016-8530,CVE-2017-11512,CVE-2018-3948,CVE-2018-3949,CVE-2019-18952,CVE-2020-5410,CVE-2020-8260) - There exists a directory traversal vulnerability on different web servers. The vulnerability is due to an input validation error in a web server that does not properly sanitize the URL for the directory traversal patterns. Successful exploitation allows unauthenticated remote attackers to disclose or access arbitrary files on the vulnerable server.
Top Mobile Malwares
Last month Anubis remained in first place as the most prevalent Mobile malware, followed by AhMyth and Hiddad.
1. Anubis – Anubis is a banking Trojan malware designed for Android mobile phones. Since it was initially detected, it has gained additional functions including Remote Access Trojan (RAT) functionality, keylogger, audio recording capabilities and various ransomware features. It has been detected on hundreds of different applications available in the Google Store.
2. AhMyth - AhMyth is a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) discovered in 2017. It is distributed through Android apps that can be found on app stores and various websites. When a user installs one of these infected apps, the malware can collect sensitive information from the device and perform actions such as keylogging, taking screenshots, sending SMS messages, and activating the camera, which is usually used to steal sensitive information.
3. Hiddad - Hiddad is an Android malware which repackages legitimate apps and then releases them to a third-party store. Its main function is to display ads, but it can also gain access to key security details built into the OS.
Check Point's Global Threat Impact Index and its ThreatCloud Map are powered by Check Point's ThreatCloud (https://threatmap.CheckPoint.com/) intelligence. ThreatCloud provides real-time threat intelligence derived from hundreds of millions of sensors worldwide, over networks, endpoints and mobiles. The intelligence is enriched with AI-based engines and exclusive research data from Check Point Research, the intelligence and research arm of Check Point Software Technologies.
The complete list of the top ten malware families in October can be found on the Check Point blog.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Check Point Software Technologies Ltd..
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press@kerrybotha.co.za
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About Check Point Research:
Check Point Research provides leading cyber threat intelligence to Check Point Software customers and the greater intelligence community. The research team collects and analyzes global cyber-attack data stored on ThreatCloud to keep hackers at bay, while ensuring all Check Point products are updated with the latest protections. The research team consists of over 100 analysts and researchers cooperating with other security vendors, law enforcement and various CERTs.
About Check Point Software Technologies Ltd.:
Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (www.CheckPoint.com) is a leading provider of cybersecurity solutions to corporate enterprises and governments globally. Check Point Infinity's portfolio of solutions protects enterprises and public organizations from 5th generation cyberattacks with an industry leading catch rate of malware, ransomware and other threats. Infinity comprises four core pillars delivering uncompromised security and threat prevention across enterprise environments: Check Point Harmony, for remote users; Check Point CloudGuard, to automatically secure clouds; and Check Point Quantum, to protect network perimeters and datacentres, all controlled by the industry's most comprehensive, intuitive unified security management; Check Point Horizon, a prevention-first security operations suite. Check Point protects over 100,000 organizations of all sizes.
To lay a foundational understanding of the so-called Fintech Revolution, it is important to delineate the terms blockchain, fintech, and cryptocurrency from the outset. Blockchain technology stands as a decentralised and tamper-resistant digital ledger, which securely documents transactions across a vast network of computers. Fintech, short for financial technology, encapsulates a number of innovative digital …
Private capital takes centre stage at universal access to water summit
Enabling private capital and mobilisation will take centre stage as stakeholders in the water sector gather for the World Bank’s Eastern and Southern Africa Leadership Summit on universal access to water supply, sanitation and hygiene.
Hard on the heels of the week-long 7th Africa Sanitation and Hygiene Conference held in Namibia last week, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) Director-General, Dr Sean Phillips, is participating in the Eastern and Southern Africa Leadership Summit on universal access to Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), currently underway in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The two-day summit, taking place from 14 - 15 November 2023, will focus on enabling private capital and mobilisation, and will promote critical, tangible inputs on strategies, actions and policy reforms to boost private sector financing and participation of the water and sanitation sector.
The event, which is co-hosted by the Ministry of Finance in Ethiopia and the World Bank, seeks to help identify and seize opportunities to increase private and public funding, and implement the necessary sector reforms to serve all Eastern and Southern African residents still lacking access to WASH.
The discussions at the summit will centre on three strategic actions of systems change, including policy and institutional reforms that promote efficient use of public and private resources; investments that are pivotal for the transformation of the water sector, and country and regional platforms for collaboration.
The summit will build on previous discussions and will advance the dialogue on country plans to accelerate access to WASH, and further provide an opportunity for in-depth discussions to understand the implications of implementing systems change.
The event will serve as an interactive platform for stakeholders, including water sector ministers, finance ministers, development partners, and private sector leaders to discuss opportunities for collaboration.
Phillips said the discussions at the summit will focus on what it would take to reduce existing inequalities in WASH services worldwide and will promote critical, tangible inputs on strategies, actions, and policy reforms to boost private sector financing and participation.
“The high-level ministerial and technical discussions will help identify and seize opportunities to increase private and public funding and implement the necessary sector reforms to serve all Eastern and Southern African residents that are still lacking access to WASH.
“The Department of Water and Sanitation welcomes this initiative by the World Bank to advocate for private funding programmes that will advance the WASH objectives. As you know, South Africa has also committed itself to achieve goal 6 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which focuses on the right to water and sanitation services for all,” Phillips said.
The WASH initiative encompasses 18 countries, ranging from fragile and conflict-affected States to middle-income countries.
While the world is progressing towards SDG 6, one of the 17 United Nations SDGs, which advocates for availability and sustainable management of clean water and sanitation for all, most African countries are lagging to achieve this goal.
The sub-Saharan Africa is the only region sliding backward in terms of WASH. Over the last 20 years, access to basic water supply and sanitation has declined, resulting in 37 million more people without basic water supply and 247 million more without basic sanitation.
Despite all efforts being made, these gaps are continuously growing.
The DWS said the implications of limited access to basic water supply and sanitation were discussed at previous events, such as the UN (United Nations) Water Conference in March 2023 and the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings in April 2023.
“During these high-level events, the African Ministers of Water and of Finance embraced a strategy to effect change that will grant universal WASH access. The ministers have also committed to establish and monitor regional platforms to track progress of the initiative,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 11/14/2023 - 10:53
Energy Law involves the regulation of, and transactions within, the energy sector from its procurement to its generation and distribution, and includes the ancillary commercial and financing-related agreements required for the smooth operation of the process. Who is the regulator of the energy industry in South Africa In South Africa, the regulation of the electricity …
Health convenes primary health care conference
The Department of Health will this week convene the South African Primary Health Care (SAPHC) conference in East London, in the Eastern Cape.
The conference, which will take place from 15 to 16 November 2023, will reflect on and review the country’s journey towards the ideals of primary health care (PHC) over the last 30 years of democracy.
According to the department, the platform is also expected to discuss the pivotal role of the PHC in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in South Africa by 2030.
PHC, the department said, is the most inclusive, equitable, cost-effective and efficient approach accessible to most individuals and families in the community to enhance their physical and mental health, as well as social wellbeing, hence almost 86% of the population depends on PHC in South Africa.
The two-day conference will be attended by almost 350 delegates representing all nine provinces, stakeholders in the sectors, and representatives from local and international organisations including the World Health Organisation (WHO).
This year’s theme will focus on the role of strong PHC in South Africa’s pursuit of UHC coverage through National Health Insurance (NHI).
The delegates will also draw lessons from international experiences such as Thailand, Vietnam, Cuba and Mauritius in the implementation of the PHC approach and delivery of services, particularly from countries in the global south with socio-economic conditions that are comparable to South Africa.
Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, will deliver the keynote address.
There will also be contributions from the Deputy Minister, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, provincial Health MECs and WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti.
“Primary Health Care plays a crucial role in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3, which relates to health to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for people of all ages,” the department added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 11/14/2023 - 10:06
Global foundation becomes League’s ‘Social Impact Partner’ Betway SA20 andthe Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa have announced a...
EC notes report on child malnutrition
The Eastern Cape Provincial Government says it has noted the South African Human Rights Commission’s (SAHRC) report on Child Malnutrition and the Right to Food, which calls for closer monitoring and increased interventions to deal with child malnutrition.
The SAHRC’s report, which reflects outcomes of the research conducted in August 2022, revealed that the level of malnutrition remain very high in the province.
Malnutrition of children is mostly associated with poor households, with food security leading to compromised nutritional intake.
It is also noted that children born to teenage mothers or under circumstances of alcohol and drug abuse and domestic violence are more likely to experience lack of care which affects child feeding practices.
Responding to the report which was released recently, the provincial government noted that since the dawn of democracy it has been implementing various policy interventions and strategies towards addressing the triple challenges of poverty, inequality, and unemployment.
These include addressing the concerning plight of child malnutrition in areas of the province.
While acknowledging that the levels of malnutrition remain very high, the provincial government noted a drop in the fatality rate due to severe acute malnutrition from 11.8% in 2017/18 to 7% in the 2022/2023 financial year.
This is attributed to inter-sectoral collaboration efforts by other departments including Social Development, South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and relevant stakeholders to tackle social determinants of health affecting child malnutrition.
The government emphasised that effective prevention of malnutrition among children requires collective responsibility between government, civil society, private sector, communities, and other appropriate stakeholders.
Highlighting some of the interventions to support the basic health and nutrition rights of all children in under-resourced and vulnerable communities, the provincial government said through the South African Social Services Agency, the Eastern Cape provincial government has provided Child Support Grants (CSG) to millions of deserving children, lifting many out of the poverty line.
“Government is spending more than R1 billion towards providing the CSG to close to 2 million children that include Care Dependency and Foster Care Grants. Furthermore, there are about 3 950 undocumented children that are benefiting from the CSG in the province.
“Government is also implementing the School Malnutrition Programme, where children are provided with nutritious meals to enhance their general wellbeing, and also taught to establish and maintain good eating and lifestyle habits,” the provincial government said.
Through the Department of Social Development, the province continues to provide food parcels and regular meals for mothers and infants from the Social Relief of Distress, as well as provision of support, guidance, parenting and feeding skills through the Indlezana Programme.
Mothers have also been equipped with technical skills through income generating projects to generate immediate income to supplement social grants.
In addition, the provincial government has implemented programmes targeted at child-headed homes, as well as children living in the streets through a community-based prevention and early intervention program to enhance efforts of protecting orphaned and vulnerable children.
The Provincial Government has further implemented programmes to address malnutrition in ensuring that mothers and children have access to services that promote the health growth and development of children as well as prevention, early identification, and management of malnutrition.
“These include growth monitoring and promotion of breastfeeding in all levels of care and communities, prevention of teenage pregnancy, strengthening of nutritional supplementation and nutrition education, as well as education of mothers and caregivers on proper complementary feeding practices.
“The department of health is also working with partners like United Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and United Population Fund (UNFPA) to implement various strategies in the community to reduce child morbidity and mortality in the province,” the government said.
It also noted collaboration between the department of Health and Social Development to champion Integrated Mother and Child Development Malnutrition Support Programme in OR Tambo and Alfred Nzo, which has yielded positive results.
The provincial government has committed to improve the socio-economic conditions of the people in the province, through various strategic interventions. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/13/2023 - 15:47
TSHWANE: Day 2 of the Cricket South Africa (CSA) and South African Sports Association for the Intellectually Impaired (SASA II) Trination...
Joma Sport, the official technical sponsor of the prestigious Durban International Marathon, has unveiled an exclusive limited-edition Durban International Marathon event shoe, perfectly timed for race day on Sunday, 28 April 2024. “We are thrilled to announce Joma’s role as the technical sponsor of the Durban International Marathon,” says Roger Noades, Director of Joma South …
Two villages in the Malamulele region don’t have access to clean running water, despite the municipality installing boreholes there.
NSFAS applications open next week
Applications for financial aid for all learners who wish to enter the post-school system and students who do not have financial assistance to continue their studies in the 2024 academic year will officially open on 21 November 2023.
In a statement issued on Monday, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) said the applications for 2024 funding will open on 21 November 2023 and close on 31 January 2024.
The reason for opening applications in November is so that NSFAS can afford the beneficiary shorter turn-around times for decision making, which is aligned to the financial eligibility assessment which requires updated South African Revenue Service (SARS) information.
“NSFAS is awaiting SARS completion of its tax period and to enable NSFAS to have the necessary and updated information available during our application season. We encourage all students who wish to study in the post school education and training sector higher education and training space to ensure that they apply on time.
“It is also important that students note that they don’t need results when they are entering post school education and training for the first time. Furthermore, NSFAS is engaged in conversation with the Department of Basic Education to improve the application validation processes including verifying parental relationships and all these improvements will ensure that funding decisions are confirmed timeously,” NSFAS said.
NSFAS urged students to provide accurate information, particularly parental information, when applying so that when validations occur with Home Affairs, students can be easily funded and not be subjected to appeal processes to prove parental relationship.
The parental relationship verification has been a challenge where students change their parents’ information for the sake of the bursary.
The entity said the partnership with the Department of Basic Education will further strengthen its ability to verify parental relationships.
The NSFAS Board also announced that it will continue to make immediate funding decisions for new applicant South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) beneficiaries. Immediate funding decisions mean that as soon as the applicants submit their applications they will receive an outcome.
“The moment you are verified as a SASSA beneficiary, we will not require any supporting documents. In fact, all new applicants will not require supporting documents, except for learners with disabilities.
“All rejected applicants will be able appeal and it is important that students submit the appropriate supporting documents,” NSFAS explained.
Among the new features for the 2024 application period include the NSFAS mobile application which will be rolled out initially for iPhone operating system (IOs), Android, and in due course of HUAWEI devices.
The student app will include a biometric capability which will be rolled out later in the year.
Students will also be able to track their application statuses and funding via whatsapp on 078 519 8006, and USSD at *120*67327#.
Meanwhile, NSFAS announced that its Board, in consultation with the Department of Higher Education and Training is finalising the funding guidelines for the academic year 2024.
The scheme said the guidelines will be announced on 21 November 2023, together with the opening of the application season for the academic year 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/13/2023 - 11:43
Tourism, Google sign collaborative agreement
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has signed an agreement with global tech giant, Google, aimed at promoting South Africa as a prime tourist destination and to provide training and support to the sector in digital training.
The Minister and Dr Alistair Mokoena, Country Director for Google South Africa, signed the agreement in Cape Town on Monday.
This partnership is in line with de Lille’s mission to grow tourism to its full potential, unlock the power of technology in the sector and increase arrivals to South Africa to support economic growth and job creation.
“In an era of digital transformation, collaboration between technology giants and government entities has the potential to reshape industries and enhance public services. As stated in the Tourism Sector Green Paper, there is a ‘lack of support mechanisms for the (tourism) sector, particularly SMMEs, to adapt to a digital future and other technological advancements.
“This visionary partnership between Google and the Ministry of Tourism, focuses on non-monetary exchanges to leverage each parties’ strengths for mutual benefits,” de Lille said.
Google intends to provide support to the Ministry to achieve its mandate through providing access to its initiatives and programmes in South Africa that are beneficial to the sector.
Mokoena said they were excited to partner with the Department of Tourism and to sign the letter of intent which aims to position South Africa as a great tourist destination.
“As a company that prides itself in organising the world’s information and making it universally accessible and useful, we look forward to rolling out various programmes in conjunction with the department, to fast track digital transformation in the sector, helping with digital skills and showcasing South African tourism through our Google Arts & Culture platform,” Mokoena said.
According to the department, the primary goal of this collaboration is to harness Google's technological expertise to support the Ministry of Tourism's efforts in promoting South Africa as a prime tourist destination.
The department said no monetary exchange will take place as a result of the agreement.
The areas of collaboration include:
Collaborating with the Ministry of Tourism, Google can provide insights into global travel trends. This information can guide the Department of Tourism and South African Tourism’s strategies for targeting specific markets and tailoring experiences to visitor expectations.
Specific studies to investigate the impact of digital platforms and online content are to be undertaken by Google and shared at no cost to the Ministry or Department.
Google offers skills training programmes including the Google Hustle Academy and master classes. These digital skills initiatives will be extended to offer training programs for individuals and businesses within the Ministry ecosystem.
This would equip local entrepreneurs with the digital skills needed to market their offerings online, potentially attracting a wider audience of travellers.
Tourism start-ups can be supported by Google programmes such as the Startup Accelerator and the Black Founders Fund.
The training will also include Google Ads training on the fundamentals of Google Ads. To date, more than 2 773 South African SMMES have previously benefited from these support programmes offered by Google.
Google can showcase South African tourism sites and unique cultural heritage to the world through the Google Arts and Culture Portal.
The two will also collaborate in creating a tourism thought leadership seminar through presenting commissioned research results on the opportunity and impact of online content and digital platforms in the tourism sector.
A co-hosted thought leadership seminar will focus on the digital opportunities for accelerating economic growth in the tourism sector.
The aims of the seminar will be to facilitate knowledge sharing and understanding of the digital opportunity in accelerating economic growth and upskilling governments and tourism promotion agencies with global best practices on how to use digital platforms.
“By tapping into Google's technology through digital skills training and the sharing of insights, South Africa's industry, notably SMMEs, can be present their offerings in innovative ways, engaging potential tourists, and inspiring them to explore the country,” Minister de Lille said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 11/13/2023 - 14:00
Two in hot water for possession of state infrastructure
Two people have been arrested and charged with the possession of stolen goods, including 52 street lights estimated at R1.9 million belonging to the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality.
The Border Management Authority (BMA) said the pair was arrested by border guards at the Kosi Bay port of entry when they intercepted state property which was en route to Mozambique on Saturday, 11 November 2023.
According to the authority’s statement released on Monday, the duo was in a grey Isuzu bakkie which was driven by a Mozambican national when they were searched at the port of entry bordering South Africa and Mozambique.
“The team immediately activated the Hawks and Durban metro police.
“Two Mozambicans were arrested and charged with the possession of stolen goods, including damaging of essential infrastructure.”
In addition, the BMA said the vehicle they were travelling in as well as the property were seized and handed over to the Manguzi South African Police Service (SAPS).
“A case was opened and handed over to the Hawks for further investigation.”
BMA Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato, commended the remarkable work of the border guards in preventing illegal activities and securing the state assets.
“The BMA border guards serve as the first line of defence working around the clock to enforce immigration laws thereby maintaining the integrity of our nation. Their vigilance in this incident and dedication contribute significantly to maintaining law and order. Their operation in intercepting municipal assets is truly commendable,” said Masiapato. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 11/13/2023 - 14:33
Herbert Mensah, the newly elected President of Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com), the continental governing body for rugby in Africa, recently engaged in a 45-minute face-to-face meeting with Dr Akinwumi A. Adesina, the President of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB). The meeting, held during the African Investment Forum in Marrakesh, Morocco, focused on the crucial topic of sports infrastructures in Africa.
During the meeting, President Mensah and Dr Adesina discussed the significant potential of sports as a thriving business in Africa, with a particular emphasis on advancing development of sports infrastructure across the continent. Recognizing the pivotal role of sport in economic growth and community well-being, both leaders explored strategic conversations to harness the continent's potential.
President Adesina took a moment to extend his heartfelt congratulations to the South Africa Springboks for their triumph at the Rugby World Cup. He emphasized the victory's significance in maintaining Africa's status as the reigning champion of the world for another four years.
The newly elected President of Rugby Africa, Herbert Mensah, continues to emphasize the business potential of sport across Africa. Since his election, Mensah has called for a change of mind-set among African governments and international organizations and to fully embrace, support and increase investment in rugby across Africa, as a wealth and development creating activity.
“With abundant talent and the world's attention, Africa stands at the forefront of the global marketplace,” said Mensah. “It's time to turn this potential into power, investing in ourselves, forging structures that allow our resources to fuel our own growth, breaking free from the cycle of export and import that hinders the realization of our true economic potential.”
The sports industry in Africa is experiencing rapid growth, with significant potential to generate jobs, improve public health, foster social inclusion, and drive economic growth.
According to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), the industry was valued at $7 billion in 2018, with an expected growth of $12 billion in 2027. Despite the potential, investment across Africa remains limited, with only 1% of start-up financing directed towards the sports sector.
More information: https://apo-opa.co/3FV6pXA
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.
Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com
About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women's rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 39 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.
Chikunga receives specialised agency to audit SA’s marine operations
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has officially welcomed the International Maritime Organisation audit team who are in the country to conduct a mandatory audit under the IMO’s Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS).
Speaking at Monday’s opening meeting in Cape Town, the Minister described the gathering as a milestone as the country forges ahead with upholding international standards and compliance in maritime operations.
The International Maritime Organisation, which South Africa became a member of in 1995, is a specialised agency of the United Nations (UN) responsible for regulating and promoting responsible shipping on a global scale.
South Africa’s participation in the IMO, enables the country to contribute to the development of international maritime policies and standards, mainly related to maritime safety, pollution prevention and the welfare of seafarers.
“South Africa also benefits from IMO initiatives that support capacity building, technical assistance and development in the maritime sector.”
The IMO’s audit scheme has created a regulatory framework for the shipping industry that is fair and effective, universally adopted and implemented. It also promotes a safe and secure environment and efficient and sustainable shipping.
During this audit, the Minister said key areas will be scrutinised, ranging from ship safety and security to environmental protection measures.
“South Africa’s focus is on fostering compliance with the international maritime conventions and how it meets those obligations, ensuring that our practices align with global standards set by [the] IMO.”
Legislation
South Africa has since reviewed the Comprehensive Maritime Transport Policy, while some key pieces of legislation are under review and will soon be enacted.
These include the Merchant Shipping Act, the Marine Pollution Bill and the Oil Pollution Preparedness Response and Cooperation Bill.
The Minister believes that the legislative process is critical to giving full effect to the convention by accelerating adoption, incorporation into national laws, and development of regulations to mainstream implementation and enforcement of IMO instruments in South African territorial waters.
Audit
The commencement of the IMSAS audit comes after it was postponed due to the aftermath impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. The audit will begin with preparatory work by all entities with the mandate on maritime policy, legislation and operations.
“A pre-audit questionnaire and an exercise were completed to collect and verify documents and all that is left is for the auditors to satisfy themselves on the audit requirements and completeness of South Africa's compliance to international rules and standards.”
This will be followed by a preliminary audit outcome report, expected to be submitted at the end of the week-long undertaking.
The team will audit the Department of Transport and its implementing agency and the maritime administration, South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA.
They will also assess the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre supported by Telkom on radio communications, Transnet National Ports Authority, the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Environment, the South African Weather Services and the South African Navy Hydrography Office.
“Together, we can ensure that the outcomes of this audit catalyse positive change as we strive towards excellence,” she said.
The Minister is of the view that compliance is not merely a regulatory obligation.
“It is a commitment to the wellbeing of our oceans, the safety of our seafarers, and the sustainability of maritime trade, crucial to the export-driven economy of South Africa.
“By working together, we strengthen our capacity to address challenges and promote a culture of safety and continuous improvement.”
In addition, she said the feedback will assist in the regulatory process of the IMO to help make measurable improvements in the effectiveness of the international regulatory framework for shipping.
“I cannot over-emphasise the importance of this audit, a window of reflection of our work as a maritime nation, quality assurance and continuous standards improvement for safe and secure and environmentally sound South Africa’s plus or minus 3 000 kilometres of diverse coastline.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 11/13/2023 - 12:43
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