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In a world where environmental consciousness is no longer just a buzzword, but a necessity, Neutralise stands as a beacon of purpose-driven innovation, ready to shape a future that’s led by sustainability. This South African company is on a mission to help individuals and businesses alike offset their carbon emissions and contribute to a prosperous …
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) has become an integral part of any business’s digital marketing strategy. In a world where online visibility can make or break a brand, it’s vital to invest in the right SEO package. In South Africa, with its diverse landscape and unique regional characteristics, SEO services have been tailored to cater to …
Johannesburg, South Africa – October 3, 2023: Tropika Island of Treasure season 10 All Stars has won the South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) for Best Competition Reality Programme. The award was presented at a star studded ceremony held at Ghallager Estate in Midrand on Saturday, September 30, 2023. Tropika Island of Treasure All …
Minister Zulu receives review report on child support grant
The Child Poverty and the Child Support Grant (CSG) Review Report not only serves as a barometer, but it is an invitation to found, strengthen and activate multilateral partnerships that will undo child poverty in all communities.
This is according to Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu, who received the review report on Friday in Johannesburg, Gauteng.
“The Review Report is a challenge to all of us to inspire hope, thereby ensuring a brighter future for all children. To reinforce the CSG’s continued relevance, the department is currently working on a policy through which we will be integrating the receipt of children's grants with government’s other basic services in the very near future.
“This policy will ensure that these beneficiaries, namely children, will benefit from receiving the diverse bouquet of government’s interventions that will necessarily improve their human development and dignity,” Zulu said.
In 2021, the Department of Social Development commissioned the Children’s Institute at the University of Cape Town to conduct a comprehensive review of child poverty and the value of the Child Support Grant (CSG).
In its effort to ensure that the right to access social assistance is afforded to all those who are unable to take care of themselves, the South African government has, through the Department of Social Development, rolled out a massive social assistance programme, the most notable being the CSG.
The South African Social Assistance programme stands as a globally recognised model, acknowledged for its strategic role as the nation's primary poverty alleviation initiative.
The CSG has been especially successful at reaching large numbers of poor children with relative ease, earning recognition for its pro-poor targeting among existing social grants.
To date, the 13 million children are CSG recipients to the value of R510 a month per child. In the previous financial year (2022/23), the Department of Social Development, through its entity, SASSA, allocated a budget of R77 billion for the payment of this grant.
The CSG remains one of the country’s successful poverty alleviation programmes, which plays a significant role in positive school outcomes, and research has shown that it has ensured that eligible children receiving the CSG remain in school.
While it is acknowledged that the CSG has had a significant impact in alleviating poverty, it is provided at a value too small to protect the poorest children from hunger, malnutrition, and stunting, the review noted.
In an effort to augment the current social assistance programme such that it can address the existing gaps, the Department of Social Development said it has, in the past two decades, engaged in policy reforms in the form of scaling up social assistance to cover all the vulnerable groups.
The review assessed the state of child poverty in the country, the impact of the CSG on child poverty, as well as the value of the CSG in the context of child poverty and the cost of raising a child.
The findings of the review are already indicating that poverty rates are higher for women than for men, and higher for children than adults, making it imperative therefore, going forward, to analyse child poverty rates separately, as the extent of child poverty is otherwise obscured by the overall national poverty rates.
The review also found that child poverty in South Africa remains racially and geographically distorted, wherein African children and those living in rural areas in the former homelands, are most likely to be poor.
Child food poverty was also reduced by 20 percentage points from 55% to 33% between 2003 and 2013, as the CSG coverage expanded rapidly with the age threshold being extended from 7 to 18 years.
Several studies demonstrate that the CSG has contributed to improved outcomes for child wellbeing. Furthermore between 2013 and 2019, child poverty rates remained stable and the percentage of children below the upper bound poverty line started to show improvement in 2017.
The review also records that the introduction of the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress, the caregiver allowance and top-ups to the permanent grants helped to offset increases in child poverty for a few months in 2020. It has been found that these temporary measures to boost grant income “saved” an estimated 1.2 million children from food poverty for a few months.
The review also notes that child poverty and hunger rates increased after the caregiver allowance and top-ups ended in October 2020.
It further reveals that in 2021, child poverty had risen significantly, with 37% of children (over 7 million) living in food poverty and 62% below the upper bound poverty line.
It has also been found that delays in birth registration and CSG applications during lockdown resulted in the number of babies receiving the CSG falling by about 100 000 in 2021 with no recovery to 2019 levels by March 2022.
As a result of many years of annual CSG increases below food inflation, the purchasing power of the CSG has been eroded and it no longer covers the cost of food and clothing for a child as originally intended.
The review further highlights that should the status quo continue, the gap between the value of the CSG and the food poverty line will widen further every year, with the rate and number of children living in food poverty continuing to rise.
The study, inter alia, recommends that the food poverty line - at R663/child/month - should be regarded as the absolute minimum, while the upper bound poverty line - at R1 417/child/month - should not be seen as generous. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 13:47
Futurelife invests R75m in Dube Trade Port SEZ facility
KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, says the investment in a new Futurelife manufacturing facility at the Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has created hope for a better future for the province.
Duma made the remarks during the launch of a R75 million investment by South African health foods manufacturer, Futurelife, which took occupation in a new manufacturing facility in Dube TradePort, located near the King Shaka International Airport.
The modern factory is set to streamline Futurelife's production processes, enhancing the organisation's efficiency through the purchase of advanced machinery and equipment that will enable the factory to operate at international standards.
Cutting the ribbon to officially mark the factory opening for business, Duma emphasised the important role that the factory will play in sustainable economic development in KwaZulu-Natal.
Duma said locating the business within the Dube Trade Port SEZ will ensure efficiencies in the operations while reducing the logistics costs.
Ahead of the COVID-19 lockdown, about 315 000 people were employed in manufacturing, representing just of 12% of total formal and informal employment.
He said the plant is an integral part of the provincial industrial strategy which aims to stimulate the manufacturing industry in order to increase employment.
“This launch is a result of your ability to work together to master new state-of-the-art technologies and to do this all on schedule. If we are to realise the province’s full potential and discharge our shared commitment to create a better life for all South Africans, then increased investment in the province is of critical importance.
“The fact that Futurelife already sources 87% of its raw materials locally, gives local producers an advantage of future upstream integration as Futurelife continues to pursue growth into regional and international markets," Duma said
Futurelife, which previously had its operations in Pinetown for 14 years, was fully acquired by food and beverage company, PepsiCo South Africa in 2023.
Former Futurelife Managing Director and now PepsiCo South Africa’s Commercial Vice President Mark Bunn said the exceptional facility is a testament to the company’s commitment to transforming and improving South Africans' health and well-being.
“The new factory embodies our dedication to contributing positively to the local community and ultimately the broader economy. The company has its origins in KwaZulu-Natal and has experienced significant growth and success within this region and, over time, in South Africa at large.
“We are, therefore, unwavering in our commitment to giving back to the very community and economy that has played a pivotal role in our journey. Our dedication extends beyond business as usual; it's a pledge to support and enrich the local community and economy through our endeavours, ensuring a lasting positive impact for years to come,” Bunn said.
Bunn said the company currently has a staff complement of 186 and anticipates creating an additional 24 direct jobs in the next five years of its operations within the new facility.
He added that the company anticipates growing 30% of its business into export markets in Asia, Middle East, Europe, North America and the rest of the African continent.
Dube Trade Port SEZ CEO, Hamish Erskine said the investment is significant for FutureLife, and serves as a notable endorsement for the SEZ, as an investment destination in South Africa.
“As the Special Economic Zone operator, we welcome this investment and look forward to working with and supporting FutureLife in their development journey, as we also continue to build a highly secure and functional industrial precinct,” Erskine said.
Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone is home to 46 operational business enterprises, which have collectively created 10 803 jobs, as at March 2023. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 14:20
Pact to fund STEM postgrad students
The National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Energy Mobility Education Trust have concluded a three-year partnership agreement to fund postgraduate students in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and commerce fields.
The agreement is said to focus on traditionally marginalised groups and contribute to the transformation of the education landscape, with a specific focus on South Africans who are Black, female or people with a disability.
According to the Energy Mobility Education Trust CEO, Vuyo Mwase, the move will promote academic, scientific, and technological cooperation by supporting full-time studies for South African postgraduate students at the Honours level for the first year and Master’s and Doctoral levels from 2024.
“The Energy Mobility Education Trust has championed the attainment of formal qualifications in STEM and commerce for over years,” said Mwase.
The CEO also noted the lack of funding for postgraduate studies.
“As such, this complementary and strategic partnership with the NRF strengthens our position and commitment to narrowing this gap. Additionally, our partnership will augment the much-needed innovation in developing and managing the current and emerging renewable energy systems,” Mwase explained.
The programme will initially provide funding opportunities for 38 Honours students for the 2023 academic year, with an initial investment of R6.8 million, with Master’s and Doctoral programmes to start in 2024.
Funding for postgraduate students will be made available in the STEM disciplines, with a specific focus on mathematical science, data science, computer science, green economy, renewable energy and climate change studies.
The first phase of the programme will support students from the Universities of Fort Hare, Limpopo, Pretoria, Witwatersrand, Western Cape and Johannesburg.
The NRF’s Dr Mbulelo Ncango is of the view that the scholarship programme comes at a critical time as South Africa strives to respond to energy and climate change challenges amongst many other national concerns.
“This partnership is aligned with national policy goals on higher education, science, and technology such as the strengthening of human resource development and the creation of an enabling environment for innovation in South Africa,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 15:00
Futurelife invests R75m to Dube TradePort SEZ facility
KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, says the investment in a new Futurelife manufacturing facility at the Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has created hope for a better future for the province.
Duma made the remarks during the launch of a R75 million investment by South African health foods manufacturer, Futurelife, which took occupation in a new manufacturing facility in Dube TradePort, located near the King Shaka International Airport.
The modern factory is set to streamline Futurelife's production processes, enhancing the organisation's efficiency through the purchase of advanced machinery and equipment that will enable the factory to operate at international standards.
Cutting the ribbon to officially mark the factory opening for business, Duma emphasised the important role that the factory will play in sustainable economic development in KwaZulu-Natal.
Duma said locating the business within the Dube Trade Port SEZ will ensure efficiencies in the operations while reducing the logistics costs.
Ahead of the COVID-19 lockdown, about 315 000 people were employed in manufacturing, representing just of 12% of total formal and informal employment.
He said the plant is an integral part of the provincial industrial strategy which aims to stimulate the manufacturing industry in order to increase employment.
“This launch is a result of your ability to work together to master new state-of-the-art technologies and to do this all on schedule. If we are to realise the province’s full potential and discharge our shared commitment to create a better life for all South Africans, then increased investment in the province is of critical importance.
“The fact that Futurelife already sources 87% of its raw materials locally, gives local producers an advantage of future upstream integration as Futurelife continues to pursue growth into regional and international markets," Duma said
Futurelife, which previously had its operations in Pinetown for 14 years, was fully acquired by food and beverage company, PepsiCo South Africa in 2023.
Former Futurelife Managing Director and now PepsiCo South Africa’s Commercial Vice President Mark Bunn said the exceptional facility is a testament to the company’s commitment to transforming and improving South Africans' health and well-being.
“The new factory embodies our dedication to contributing positively to the local community and ultimately the broader economy. The company has its origins in KwaZulu-Natal and has experienced significant growth and success within this region and, over time, in South Africa at large.
“We are, therefore, unwavering in our commitment to giving back to the very community and economy that has played a pivotal role in our journey. Our dedication extends beyond business as usual; it's a pledge to support and enrich the local community and economy through our endeavours, ensuring a lasting positive impact for years to come,” Bunn said.
Bunn said the company currently has a staff complement of 186 and anticipates creating an additional 24 direct jobs in the next five years of its operations within the new facility.
He added that the company anticipates growing 30% of its business into export markets in Asia, Middle East, Europe, North America and the rest of the African continent.
Dube Trade Port SEZ CEO, Hamish Erskine said the investment is significant for FutureLife, and serves as a notable endorsement for the SEZ, as an investment destination in South Africa.
“As the Special Economic Zone operator, we welcome this investment and look forward to working with and supporting FutureLife in their development journey, as we also continue to build a highly secure and functional industrial precinct,” Erskine said.
Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone is home to 46 operational business enterprises, which have collectively created 10 803 jobs, as at March 2023. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 14:20
President Ramaphosa launches Border Management Authority
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the newly launched Border Management Authority (BMA) will provide a sustainable solution to the structural challenges of border security, control and coordination.
The President emphasised that a more secure border is important for curbing illegal migration, human smuggling and trafficking, and that the BMA will help in combating cross-border crime.
President Ramaphosa was delivering remarks at the launch of the Border Management Authority (BMA) at Musina Show Grounds in Limpopo on Thursday.
He said that this will be a new model of integration of functions, roles and responsibilities in the broader law enforcement environment.
“The Border Management Authority is expected to tackle the challenges of congestion, procedural delays, long transit times, lack of predictability and high logistics costs. I commend the Border Management Authority for the speed with which it has already commenced its work.
“When our country’s ports of entry and borders are well-protected and well-managed, we are able to prevent the illegal importation and exit of goods. We see the Border Management Authority as a vital link in our efforts to harness the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area,” he said.
The President said the Border Management Authority was established in response to a number of serious challenges. One of these challenges is the increase in the number of undocumented foreign nationals entering the country, which has exacerbated many of the country’s social and economic problems.
“The movement of persons and goods at ports of entry has often not been as efficient as it should be, resulting in unnecessary delays and increased costs for individuals and companies. This in turn is harming our economy.
"Deficiencies in border management have also enabled corruption and organised and cross-border crime to thrive. We have faced a problem of fragmentation of powers, responsibility and accountability,” the President said.
The Border Management Authority is now the third armed service in South Africa after the South African National Defence Force and the South African Police Service.
It is mandated to perform border management functions within ports of entry as well as the law enforcement area. The Border Management Authority is being established through an incremental approach.
Steps have already been taken to integrate under the Border Management Authority various relevant functions of the departments of Home Affairs, Agriculture, Health, and Fisheries, Forestry and the Environment.
To enable its work, the President said the Border Management Authority has signed implementation protocols with the South African Revenue Service, Police Service and Defence Force.
“While the border guard will be conducting border law enforcement functions, including access control, the South African National Defence Force remains responsible for border protection and safeguarding.
“The border guard will interface with the nearest police station with regards to the occurrence of a crime at a port of entry,” the President said.
BMA important tool to develop the region
The President took a tour to the Beit Bridge Border Post with his counterpart from Zimbabwe, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, and they agreed that the establishment of the Border Management Authority will be an important tool for the development of the region.
“It will form part of integrating border management activities in the SADC region as we implement the African Continental Free Trade Area. We will be able to work towards eradicating various forms of red tape that are hindering trade, investment and the movement of persons,” he said.
The President said that Border Management Authority will be redeveloping six ports of entries as one-stop-border-posts.
This approach will improve efficiency at land border crossings by combining the stops required for processing exit and entry formalities.
In July, the country saw the deployment of the first officers of the border guard of the Border Management Authority at vulnerable segments of the border line, including the informal community crossing points. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 10:20
A high-level presentation on the European Union's (EU) AfricaMaVal initiative and related efforts to establish sustainable critical raw material value chains in Africa will be delivered at the upcoming Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) 2023 summit (https://CriticalMineralsAfrica.com).
Led by Roberto Cecutti, Head of Trade and Economics, EU Delegation to South Africa and Sodhie Naicker, Managing Director of DMT and Kai Batla and Consortium Partner in AfricaMaVal, the presentation is one of several organized for the first day of the conference, serving to promote sustainable partnerships, policies and projects in raw materials and strengthen global critical mineral supply chains.
The AfricaMaVal project – “Building EU-Africa Partnerships on the Sustainable Raw Materials Value Chain” – aims to ensure responsible mineral sourcing by European countries, while fostering sustainable development and ESG practices across the African continent. The project targets 10 case studies in Morocco, Senegal, Gabon, the DRC, Tanzania, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Namibia, South Africa and Madagascar, with a view to evaluating their respective mining and refining potential and strengthening their existing links to European partners.
Launched in June 2022 and set to run through November 2025, the AfricaMaVal initiative comes as Europe takes a mounting interest in Africa's critical minerals as an alternative supply to China and Russia. The EU has classified rare earth minerals as critical to delivering its flagship Green Deal and digital transition, which targets carbon neutrality by 2050.
The presentation aligns closely with the broader theme of CMA 2023 – Establishing the Critical Minerals Value Chain of the Future in Africa – which aims to position the continent as a global hub for sustainable mineral exploration, processing, technologies and trade.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
Critical Minerals Africa 2023 summit:
Organized by Energy Capital & Power, the Critical Minerals Africa 2023 summit, scheduled for October 17-19, serves to position Africa as the primary investment destination for critical minerals. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week 2023 conference (https://AECWeek.com) on October 16-20, offering delegates access to the full scope of energy, mining and finance leaders in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com
At this year’s Eskom Expo International Science Fair, young scientists have reaped the benefits of their hard work and ingenuity, receiving full- and partial bursaries, cash prizes, laptops, tablet computers, and opportunities for work-based exposure during their school holidays. The fair was held at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Boksburg from …
Clean Creatives has published a list of agencies with coal, oil, and gas clients
SADC – GMI signs agreement to promote sustainable water resources management
The Incomati and Maputo Watercourse Commission (INMACOM) and Southern African Development Community – Groundwater Management Institute (SADC – GMI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster the promotion of equitable and reasonable utilisation of water resources of the Incomati and Maputo Basin.
The agreement also seeks to ensure efficient management and sustainable development of the resources.
The signing ceremony took place on the sidelines of the 10th SADC River Basin Organisations (RBO) and Shared Watercourse Institutions (SWI) workshop, held at Joachim Chissano Conference Centre in Maputo on 2 - 4 October 2023.
The workshop aimed to facilitate the exchange of ideas that will enhance effective transboundary water resources planning, development, and management in the region, while ensuring environmental sustainability and resilience in order to improve regional water security, and ultimately reduce poverty through regional integration, economic productivity and industrialisation.
Through the signed MoU, the two parties have agreed on the following areas of cooperation, amongst others:
• Engage in academic research on the Incomati and Maputo Basins on items of mutual interest, particularly on groundwater related issues.
• Share any information that improves the knowledge base on transboundary aquifers in the Incomati and Maputo Basins.
• Design and undertake joint excursions and projects within the two basins.
• Explore funding opportunities from various cooperating partners and funders to implement joint activities within the basin.
INMACOM is an entity established by the Kingdom of Eswatini, Republic of Mozambique, and Republic of South Africa through the Incomati and Maputo Watercourse Commission Establishment Agreement entered into in November 2021.
This is an instrument used to guide the Riparian States in contributing to regional cooperation with regard to the utilisation and development of common water resources.
The main responsibility of the Commission is to, amongst others, encourage cooperation between the parties to ensure the development, protection and sustainable utilisation of the water resources shared by the Member States.
The Department of Water and Sanitation has welcomed the new development, saying the combined effort by the Member States, through South Africa’s Water and Sanitation, Department of Water Resources in Eswatini and Mozambique’s Department of Water and Natural Resources, could also contribute positively towards “peace, stability and prosperity of the Southern African region”.
“SADC-GMI, is established as the regional Centre of Excellence in promoting equitable and sustainable groundwater management and providing solutions to groundwater challenges across the SADC region for improved livelihoods and socio-economic development. This also forms part of SADC agenda of regional integration and poverty eradication.
“Furthermore, SADC-GMI mandate is to create an enabling policy, legal and regulatory environment, capacity development, advancing research, supporting groundwater infrastructure development, and create an enabling dialogue and accessibility of groundwater information in the SADC region,” the department said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 09:48
MEST Africa (https://Meltwater.org/) has announced the extension of applications for the MEST Africa Challenge to ensure broader participation from across the continent. Early-stage technology startups operational in Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, and South Africa are invited to participate in the competition to showcase their innovative entrepreneurial businesses. Applications are still open and will be accepted until 16th October 2023.
The MEST Africa Challenge provides significant benefits to participating startups. The winner will secure a USD 50,000 equity investment, accelerating their business' growth. Furthermore, the winner and other exceptional participants will join MEST Africa's global network, opening doors to partnerships, mentorship, and investment opportunities. This platform equips startups to achieve the next level of growth and gain global recognition.
"The enthusiasm and interest we have seen from budding entrepreneurs and prospective applicants across Africa has been truly inspiring. Recognizing this, we have extended the application deadline for the MEST Africa Challenge. This ensures that every innovative startup gets a fair chance to be a part of this transformative journey. We have seen the pivotal impact this challenge has had on past winners, and we are eager to discover the next game-changing startup that will redefine the African tech landscape" said Ashwin Ravichandran, Portfolio Advisor and MEST Africa Challenge Lead.
In 2022, Senegal's dynamic B2B e-commerce startup, Kwely, won the top spot at the MEST Africa Challenge. Over the years, this renowned competition has become a launchpad for standout startups from across the African continent. From Tanzania's Kilimo Fresh and Ghana's groundbreaking OZE to South Africa's tech innovator, Snode Technologies. Not to mention Kenya's Waya Waya and Nigeria's trailblazer Accounteer. The challenge continually showcases the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of Africa.
Eligibility Criteria for MAC 2023:
- Monthly Recurring Revenue: $5k+
- Funding raised: Cumulative $1M or less
- Years of existence: 3 years and below
- Traction: At least 6 months of recurring revenue
- Founding team: At least 2 founding team members
- Registered in Delaware (This is preferred)
- Demonstrated traction in MAC Markets (Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Senegal)
Don't miss out on this opportunity to showcase your startup and unlock its potential. Apply now https://apo-opa.info/3rL7v4H.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST Africa).
Media Contact:
Ophesmur Naa Adjeley Adjei
Ophesmur@meltwater.org
About MEST Africa:
MEST is an African-wide software and entrepreneurship training program, seed fund, and incubator helping to launch technology startups across the continent. Founded in Ghana in 2008 by serial entrepreneur Jorn Lyseggen, MEST is a 12-month program that provides critical skills training in software development, business, and communications to Africa's burgeoning tech talent. MEST provides seed funding for the best ideas coming out of the program and continues to support the growth and development of its portfolio companies.
To date, MEST has trained over 2000 entrepreneurs from across the continent and funded over 80 startups across industries from Agritech, Fintech, SaaS, eCommerce, Digital Media, and Healthcare amongst others. MEST is fully funded by the Meltwater Foundation, the non-profit arm of the Norwegian company Meltwater; a global leader in social and media intelligence headquartered in San Francisco.
Wage bill at flagship Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital balloons by R48-million over a year as politicians appoint family members and friends
Representing Africa's most industrialized nation, South Africa has a strategic development plan in place centered on an integrated and diversified energy industry. While faced with an energy crisis, the country has prioritized regulatory reforms under efforts to attract new investment into the entire energy value chain, thereby stimulating power generation and heavy-fuel expansion. Policies such as the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Program (REIPPP) and the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) serve as catalysts for growth, and during this year's African Energy Week (AEW) Conference & Exhibition – scheduled for October 16-20 in Cape Town – South Africa's Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Gwede Mantashe will provide further insight into the country's just energy transition approach.
Mantashe is set to deliver an opening keynote address at the conference, joining a strong slate of regional energy ministers alongside Namibian President Hage Geingob and Senegalese President Macky Sall to discuss the future of Africa's energy sector.
Under Minister Mantashe's leadership, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has made great strides towards opening up the South African energy market. With energy security top of the agenda, the Ministry has been making a big play for investment, engaging with a suite of foreign investors and energy firms to advance both offshore and onshore exploration, the development of large-scale renewable energy systems and the adoption of new technologies.
While development has been slow, milestones reached by foreign and regional energy companies have set the country apart as one of the most promising plays for hydrocarbon investment. Two major gas discoveries made in 2019 and 2020 – the Brulpadda and Luiperd discoveries – identified nearly 1 billion barrels of gas condensate each. Neighboring success in the Namibian side of the Orange Basin – with five major finds made since 2022 – have further enhanced the country's offshore attractiveness.
Progress is gradually being made to explore this acreage, with TotalEnergies recently have been given the go-ahead to conduct exploratory works in Block 5/6/7. Onshore, the DMRE estimates the Karoo Basin to hold as much as 209 trillion cubic feet of gas, with various projects underway to confirm and exploit this potential. Kinetiko Energy and the Industrial Development Corporation are developing a Liquefied Natural Gas plant in the country, capable of producing 500 MW of power. The country is also getting to auction up to 10 onshore Blocks for shale gas exploration, with the bid round set to open in 2024 or 2025 once the relevant legislation is passed. These developments are positioning the country as both a highly attractive and increasingly competitive gas market, presenting strategic opportunities for advancing energy security.
However, South Africa's energy expansion transcends oil and gas. The country has been dubbed one of the most promising markets for green hydrogen adoption, given substantial untapped renewable energy resources and growing demand for heavy-fuels. Under the Hydrogen Society Roadmap – a framework for the development of projects across the country – South Africa is seeing a wave of industry-advancing developments kick off. The DMRE introduced a R300-billion investment pipeline, hoping to capitalize on the country's potential to produce 13 million tons of green hydrogen and derivatives by 2050. To date, 19 projects have been identified for accelerate development, including the 400-kt-per-annum Boegoebaai Green Hydrogen Project; 780,000 ton-per-annum HIVE Ammonia Project; and 185-kt Hydrogen Valley Project, among other developments.
South African green hydrogen pipeline will require between 140 and 300 GW of renewable energy and will introduce up to 3.7 million job opportunities, giving the country a $60 billion GDP boost. Policies such as the REIPPP and the IRP have enticed investment while underscoring the role a diversified energy mix plays in the country.
During last year's edition, Minister Mantashe stated that, “Many people talk about 600 million without access to electricity, until we break that number down, then we are talking for the sake of talking. Energy is more than electricity.” The approach by the DMRE to invest in every available resource is underpinned by the objective of making energy poverty history – the mandate of the AEW 2023 conference.
“Minister Gwede Mantashe has demonstrated time and time again a commitment to an energy secure South Africa. As a strong advocate for a just and inclusion energy transition, Minister Mantashe promotes the role each and every resource plays in Africa's energy future. His efforts to secure investment and drive development across the entire energy sector are poised to unlock new opportunities for economic prosperity,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (AEC).
Minister Mantashe will deliver an opening keynote address on the first day of the conference. His participation will strengthen dialogue and deals while promoting the need for a just and inclusion energy transition in Africa ahead of COP28 this year.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
About African Energy Week:
AEW is the AEC's annual conference, exhibition and networking event. AEW 2023 will unite African energy policymakers and stakeholders with global investors to discuss and maximize opportunities within the continent's entire energy industry. For more information about AEW 2023, visit https://AECWeek.com.
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) and KFC South Africa celebrate the globally renowned World Teachers’ Day, which recognises and celebrates teachers...
A dynamic panel discussion on the second day of the Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) 2023 summit will explore the current landscape for investing in Africa's critical minerals sector, as the global energy transition, geopolitical considerations and supply chain disruptions continue to impact the development of new projects.
Under the theme, Investing in African Critical Minerals and Rare Earths Projects Today, the panel will address the challenges, opportunities and strategies associated with investing in Africa's critical minerals – and specifically, the Rare Earth Elements (REE) – sector, providing unparalleled insights into the region's resource potential and its role in meeting rising demand for these essential resources.
Panelists include Jude Kearney, Chair of the Sub-Saharan Africa Committee for the Export-Import Bank of the United States and Managing Partner of ASAFO & Co., US Office; Lloyd Pengilly, Chairman of Qora Capital, South Africa; Patricia Rodrigues, Associate Director at Control Risks; Nick Mitchell, Chief Operating Officer of Renergen; Jonathan Veeran, Partner at Webber Wentzel, South Africa; and Petur Georgesson, Founder and CEO of Technology Metals Market. The panel will be moderated by Olivier Barbeau, Managing Partner and EMR Leader for Africa at Moore Global.
Uniting multi-sectoral expertise from financiers, project developers, consultants and trading platforms, the panel will discuss forecast shifts in critical minerals supply and demand curves between now and 2050, identify the most interesting critical minerals projects taking place on the continent and evaluate how these projects have been able to progress through various stages of development to generate returns for investors.
Panelists will also examine the role of partnerships among governments, companies and local communities in ensuring successful and responsible investments in the sector, as well as fiscal and policy incentives conducive to attracting and retaining investments in the sector.
The Critical Minerals Africa 2023 summit on October 17-19 serves to position Africa as the primary investment destination for critical minerals. The event is organized by Energy Capital & Power and is held alongside the African Energy Week 2023 conference (https://AECWeek.com/) on October 16-20, offering delegates access to the full scope of energy, mining and finance leaders in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
Chemicals, cosmetics sectors to benefit from AfCFTA
The chemicals, cosmetics, plastics and pharmaceutical sectors are set to get acquainted with the benefits offered under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
This will occur during the virtual workshop on the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) that will be hosted by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) on Wednesday, 11 October 2023.
The dtic has already embarked on provincial awareness workshops, which provided a platform for information sharing with the private sector on the benefits offered under the agreement.
The workshops were also used to identify South African companies in various provinces, in the targeted sector masterplans and other priority sectors that have the capacity to export to the rest of the continent.
More workshops focusing on different sectors are being organised.
The workshop seeks to engage the chemicals, cosmetics, plastics, and pharmaceutical sectors, as well as industry agencies, associations and export councils, including their members on the benefits of exporting under the AfCFTA.
According to the Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina, the interactive workshop is critical as it will afford the department an opportunity to provide a status update on the progress made in the development of the National Implementation Plan of the AfCFTA.
This also includes the establishment of the National Implementation Committee.
“The department will update the sectors on the role expected of them in the implementation of the AfCFTA and essentially obtain challenges that the sectors may be facing in accessing the market in the continent. Obtaining this intelligence will assist the department to unlock the bottlenecks that the sectors may be facing,” Gina said.
Additionally, the workshop seeks to communicate and engage with the private sector, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), as well as women and youth-owned export ready businesses, on the status of the implementation of the AfCFTA, including opportunities for South African companies to participate in preferential trade beyond the Southern African region.
“I am making a call to all these sectors to take advantage of the opportunities that the agreement is expected to unlock for companies.
“This agreement intends to create a large single continental market with a population of about 1.3 billion people and a combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately USD3.4 trillion and we cannot lose out on it,” she said.
Gina describes the chemicals, cosmetics, plastics and pharmaceutical sectors as important to the South African economy as they play a critical role and are interwoven with the manufacturing sector which creates much needed employment.
South Africa is Africa’s largest market for cosmetics and personal care products.
In 2018, the sector recorded close to US$3.2bn in revenue. Imports of cosmetics have almost doubled in the last 10 years, presenting opportunities for localising production.
Against this backdrop, Gina says it is critical to support the sector and all others to produce locally and export to other markets particularly to the continent. This she says will reduce the import dependency and create more jobs. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 15:18
Africa has abundant economic potential and the enormous uptake of digital technology socially and in the business sector, has positioned the continent for explosive growth, but there are challenges that lie in wait. Many of these will be spotlighted at the 2023 Africa Tech Festival (https://apo-opa.info/3myppVu) in Cape Town 13-16 November, along with innovative solutions all led by a line-up of headline speakers including several African government ministers.
“Businesses across Africa have benefitted enormously from leap-frogging traditional technology to the digital world and wireless connectivity, and this is spurring incredible growth across the continent,” says James Williams, Director, Events | Connecting Africa | Informa Tech. “The incredible advantages of digitalisation are, however, dependent on a plentiful and reliable source of power, and it's essential that the public sector has strong strategies in place to drive this growth.”
The tech world is driven by entrepreneurial innovators, but it relies heavily on the public sector to provide infrastructure, regulations and often funding to smooth the way for technological advancement, especially in terms of providing access and infrastructure for the public to access to engage with and benefit from the technology.
Among the 200-plus speakers, presenters and panellists will be Gwede Mantashe, Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, whose input on how the South African government is tackling the critical issue of loadshedding will no doubt ensured a packed hall of delegates all hopeful of hearing positive news. The dynamic H.E. Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, South Africa's Minister in the Presidency responsible for electricity, will provide backup to the Minister in shining a light on the country's energy crisis.
Not to be missed, is the panel discussion ‘Universal Power Access: Plotting a Route Through Africa's Electricity Challenge', which puts the future of digital transformation squarely on the shoulders of electricity and citizens' access to energy.
In Africa, energy insecurity has been a chronic inhibitor of economic development for decades, and continues to cripple enterprise growth and innovation, and the panel will unpack why a staggering 30 of Africa's 54 nations face daily power shortages and supply interruptions, all of which play economic havoc with local business and consumer activity. It's important to understand how the collaboration of public and private funding is essential for striking the right balance between the two sectors to create the perfect solution to the crisis.
Also addressing delegates will be H.E. Ousmane Gaoual Diallo, the Republic of Guinea's Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, as well as Namibia's Minister of Information and Communication Technology, H.E. Minister Dr Peya Mushelenga, and their Executive Director & Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, Dr Audrin Mathe.
Another key area of public sector engagement with the tech sector will be discussed in the keynote panel ‘Unleashing Digital Prosperity: How Progressive Policy is Shaping Africa's Tech Transformation'. This session will present African Ministers from across the continent with an opportunity to share how they are tailoring policy to their unique national environment and priorities, in addition to the need for a more continental, collaborative approach.
“The process of developing and implementing policy across myriad industries and sectors is, however, an inherently complex and lengthy process and relies heavily on industry consultation, sector-specific legislation and flexibility to evolve with rapidly changing sectors,” says Williams, highlighting the importance of the growing number of Ministerial delegations at Africa Tech Festival year on year.
Among the high-level speakers sharing with delegates over the three days are:
Aside from presenting cutting-edge content and a speaker line-up of note, the Africa Tech Festival is also the meeting place of Africa's largest community of tech champions and offers this vibrant grouping the ideal space to connect and interact. However, just as these connections are so important for the industry, so is the connecting of 1.2-billion people across Africa's 54 unique nations, vital for the continent's growth, with cross-border connectivity a particular concern.
Continental broadband penetration is currently around 45%, but this varies dramatically across regions. Connectivity is critical to the rapidly expanding SME business community, as well as for wider socioeconomic development needs. Looking at this the fireside chat, ‘Connectivity Beyond Borders: Unlocking Universal Broadband Access in Africa', will explore how innovations in strategy and technology are aiming to ensure that no individual, business, or community is left behind in Africa's pursuit of universal broadband access.
While most of the discussions and presentations relate to most players in the industry, the event has been structured in such a way as to ensure that specialists are also able to sit in on the most relevant content to them, either by staying in one venue for a series of talks, or by exploring the ‘centre stages' in each of the exhibition halls in which masterclasses and presentations will take place.
Other major topics on offer this year include:
This year, the Africa Tech Festival will offer delegates several new features, along with six presentation stages and a staggering amount of content, while hundreds of exhibitors on the show floor will once again engage with the brightest tech gurus from around the continent and globally, who will all descend on the Cape Town International Convention Centre to discover the latest products and services and to connect with other tech professionals.
Williams shares that: “This year we have added a new interactive feature to the festival - a dedicated tech demo area that we are sure will draw crowds throughout the three days. It's a chance to engage with the cutting-edge innovations that Africa needs to know about… as well as some of the exciting innovations that Africa has to offer the world.”
For more information, please see website here: Africa Tech Festival 2023 - The Home of AfricaCom & AfricaTech (https://apo-opa.info/3myppVu)
View all ticket options for Africa Tech Festival, including start-up passes, here (https://apo-opa.info/3Q04o2r).
(Please note that all requests are adjudicated and there may be some delay before you hear back from us).
List of Speakers:
Dion JerlingCo-FounderConnect Earth (https://apo-opa.info/46gFyRs)
Richard CazaletExec: Strategy and TransformationTelkom SA (https://apo-opa.info/3ZFTeTq)
Miriam AltmanDirector: Altman Advisory & Professor of 4IR PracticeUniversity of Johannesburg (https://apo-opa.info/3F2uvzd)
Guy ZibiManaging DirectorXalam Analytics (https://apo-opa.info/46vWqE5)
Robert AOUADCEOISOCEL Telecom (https://apo-opa.info/48DshE8)
Ronan De RenesseSenior Research Director, Service Provider MarketsOmdia (https://apo-opa.info/3ZEV4nH)
Russell SouthwoodCEOBalancing Act (https://apo-opa.info/3Fad7bL)
Matt ReedChief Analyst, Service ProviderOmdia (https://apo-opa.info/3Q0SYLJ)
Vuyani TatiManaging PartnerAfriTech Catalytic Growth Fund (https://apo-opa.info/3Q2cdEx)
Jocelyn NyaguseHead of Marketing and StorytellingStartupbootcamp AfriTech (https://apo-opa.info/3Q38KWg)
Nathan-Ross AdamsData & Tech LawyerMichalsons (https://apo-opa.info/45l5JVP)
Paula GilbertEditorConnecting Africa (https://apo-opa.info/45nYfRL)
Matshepo SehlohoAssociate EditorConnecting Africa (https://apo-opa.info/45jiVKW)
Calvin GovenderGeneral Manager ICT Fixed ServicesMTN (https://apo-opa.info/46yJixt)
Marjorie Saint-LotCountry Manager for Uber Ghana and the Ivory CoastUber (https://apo-opa.info/45minno)
Joseph NdabaCEO of Mafikeng Digital Innovation Hub4IR Commissioner: Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Commission (https://apo-opa.info/48IAhUv)
Marion BalandraFounder & CEOMeridian Remote Teams (https://apo-opa.info/3RHf8E3)
Evan JonesCEOThe Collective X (https://apo-opa.info/3RP8Dir)
Badi SudhakaranCo-FounderVALR.com (https://apo-opa.info/45iLiIU)
Nfaly SyllaChief of CabinetMinistry of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, Republic of Guinea (https://apo-opa.info/46yzZxs)
Mumbi Ndung'uChief Growth and OperationsPower Learn Project (https://apo-opa.info/48QSa3w)
Dr Cherise DunnCo-founder and COOSouth Africa Makes (https://apo-opa.info/46yrSks)
Judith GardinerVice President, Growth and Emerging MarketsEquinix (https://apo-opa.info/46jvC9O)
Robinson Tombari SibeMD/CEODigital Footprints (https://apo-opa.info/3Q3M4oW)
Bernard WanyamaPresident, Kampala ChapterISACA (https://apo-opa.info/3tgQSyh)
Ryan Van den BerghManaging Executive: Group Technology Strategy, Architecture, Spectrum & AssuranceVodacom (https://apo-opa.info/45l7DWt)
Andy HalsallCEOpoa! Internet (https://apo-opa.info/46ArUrZ)
Sabrine ChennaouiCo-FounderMONSAPO (https://apo-opa.info/3tjBYHA)
Pablo MlikotaSenior Vice President – International Mobility Servicese& GROUP (https://apo-opa.info/3ZEWvT7)
John DaviesTMT Equity Research Analyst, EMEA, TMTBloomberg Intelligence (https://apo-opa.info/3Q4dAmn)
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Tech Festival.
For media enquiries, interviews and/or images please contact:
Kaz Henderson
kaz@networxpr.co.za
Call on +27 (0) 82 339 1199.
Social Media Handles:
Facebook: @africatechfestival
Twitter: @africatechfest
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.info/3EcywR6
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Gauteng police continue to make inroads in dealing with counterfeit goods
The police in Gauteng continue to make inroads in dealing with counterfeit goods and contraband.
On Wednesday, the police consisting of various units including Public Order Policing, Commercial Crime, Crime Intelligence, Crime Prevention in partnership with other law enforcement agencies such as Gauteng Traffic Police, Tshwane Metro Police Department, Wardens, Brand Protectors and Customs (SARS) conducted a search and seizure operation at Marabastad, in Pretoria, with the aim of addressing peddling and dealing of counterfeit and contraband goods.
Over the years, Marabastad has been a business district with a lot of consumers coming to buy clothing items and other goods however, a number of businesses allegedly owned by foreign nationals, are running illegal businesses of selling counterfeit goods.
To address this, the team seized clothing items and other goods with notable brands from both local and international to an estimated street value of about R13.7 million.
Three people were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act.
It is a criminal offence for a business to seek profit or use someone’s trademark without permission and the counterfeit goods Act 37 of 1997 prohibits such sales as this has a negative impact on the economy of the country.
“The police in Gauteng will continue unabated with these kind of operations to disrupt the counterfeit goods market,” the South African Police Service said in a statement.
The community is urged not to buy counterfeit goods and to report any criminal activities to their nearest police station or by calling Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can be directed to MySAPS App. Tipsters may opt to remain anonymous. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 10:02
On 11 October 2023, the Premier of the Western Cape, Alan Winde, will provide the opening remarks at Green Energy Africa Summit's (https://GreenEnergyAfricaSummit.com/) high-octane deal pitching platform, the Energy Investment Village.
A selection of ten African clean-tech start-ups will pitch their clean-tech solutions before a panel of judges and a room full of potential international investors on day 2 of the highly anticipated Green Energy Africa Summit. The Premier's presence at the Energy Investment Village signals the growing interest in - and serious consideration of - African clean-tech start-ups as viable clean energy investment assets.
This is the second year that Green Energy Africa Summit (https://apo-opa.info/3PLZHI8) has hosted the Energy Investment Village. The initiative was developed in partnership with Freeport Saldanha's Innovation Campus (https://www.InnovationCampus.co.za/) and advisory firm, the Research Institute for Innovation and Sustainability (RIIS) (https://EnablingInnovation.Africa/) and Anza Capital (https://Anza.holdings/), an early-stage tech start-up investment company. The Energy Investment Village is supported by Africa Scotland Business Network, JSE, Oceanhub-Africa, Savant, Firecracker, CHIETA, and Sasol.
The Green Energy Africa Summit itself provides an important role in enabling international investors to originate projects that will reduce the energy deficit whilst also contributing to developing low-carbon pathways. The Energy Investment Village is the action-based aspect of the Summit, providing a key moment for African clean energy projects and international investors to have direct sight of one another.
According to a report by the International Energy Agency, African energy investment needs to double to over USD 200 billion per year by 2030, for the continent to meet its energy-related development goals. However, emerging and developing economies (except for China) remain stuck at 2015 levels, with no increase since the Paris Agreement was reached.
Premier Winde says, “Our energy demands are currently outstripping supply. When ramping up capacity, clean energy solutions must be a priority. This is particularly important for South Africa if we are to reach our goal of net zero emissions by 2050, to which we've committed in our Low-Emission Development Strategy as part of the UNDP Climate Promise, and the Western Cape Government is committed to supporting. Initiatives such as the Green Energy Africa Summit's Energy Investment Village are excellent vehicles to enable clean energy innovation to flourish. As the Western Cape Government, we are investing heavily in making our province energy resilient. This involves striking a balance between driving economic growth while at the same time developing and harnessing renewable energy solutions.”
As well as finding potential investor-start-up linkages and synergies, the competing start-ups can win valuable prizes provided by the Energy Investment Village sponsors. This includes capacity-enhancing programmes such as:
Additionally, up to R5 million in VC funding (dependent on terms & conditions and company audit) will be made available by Anza Capital, and corporate membership to an international network worth R9k will be given to the top start-up by Africa Scotland Business Network. A cash prize of R100k from Sasol for a selected start-up.
Energy Investment Village finalists for 2023
Find out more about attending Green Energy Africa Summit and take part in the excitement as the Energy Investment Village finalists battle it out for pole position: https://apo-opa.info/3Q6u6Cp
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Green Energy Africa Summit.
Media Contact:
Amie Sparrow
PR Manager
amie.sparrow@hyve.group
About Green Energy Africa Summit:
The Green Energy Africa Summit is a high-level gathering advocating for policy reforms and the harmonisation of Africa's natural resources, to help pave the way for a just energy transition to ensure Africa remains competitive and attractive to global finance. The Green Energy Africa Summit takes place in the heart of Cape Town at the Cape Town International Convention Centre 2 (CTICC2) from 10-11 October 2023.
The 9th African Women Writers’ Symposium takes place from 8 to 20 of October 2023, featuring keynote addresses, panels, workshops and more on all things literature. The Symposium will kick off on Sunday 8 October at the Soweto Theatre and will result in the launch of the first ever African Women Writers Literary Award. The …
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