African

28 September 2023

SIU probe into Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works tender welcomed

Location: News

SIU probe into Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works tender welcomed

Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has welcomed the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) probe into allegations of maladministration and corruption related to the R295 million tender to refurbish and upgrade the Rooiwal Wastewater Treatment Works in the Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality.

Mchunu said the mismanagement of the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment plant funds will remain "etched in the mind of many South Africans as lives were lost due to alleged improper conduct”.

“We welcome the investigation into the allegations of unlawful and improper conduct related to the tender awarded by the City of Tshwane.

“We believe that the SIU will do a thorough investigation on maladministration, malpractice, corruption and fraud against any person or entities that were responsible. We also hope that the SIU will recover any financial losses suffered by the State,” Mchunu said.

The investigation into the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works will resume following the signing of a proclamation by President Cyril Ramaphosa which authorises the SIU to probe the tender of Phase 1 of the upgrades and urgent refurbishment at the wastewater treatment plant.

The plant receives wastewater from Atteridgeville, Pretoria’s central business district, Pretoria North, Soshanguve South and Rosslyn.

However, due to problems with operations and maintenance, the treated effluent from the waste water treatment works is of sub-standard and it continuously discharges into the Apies River and the Leeuwkraal Dam, resulting in poor water quality in Leeuwkraal Dam.

The Temba Water Treatment Works (WTW) abstracts water from the Leeuwkraal Dam for purification and supply to the Hammanskraal area. As a result, the water produced at the Temba plant is of poor quality and not potable.

On 20 August 2019, the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) declared that water in Hammanskraal was not fit for human consumption. This followed tests on the water with the help of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) after residents lodged complaints with it.

Mchunu said the department has on numerous occasions engaged with the City of Tshwane on the poor quality of effluent released from the Rooiwal Wastewater Treatment Works.

The department has made interventions, including the western side of Hammanskraal (Refentse), which was supplied with water from the water supply pipelines in Soshanguve, and the Eastern part of Hammanskraal, which was supplied with water by Magalies Water.

However, Mchunu said the central part of Temba is still experiencing problems with the quality of drinking water.

“The Department of Water and Sanitation and the City of Tshwane have formed a partnership to repair and upgrade the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works, and it is estimated that the cost of a full rehabilitation and upgrade of the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works will be in the region of R4 billion.

“The Development Bank of Southern Africa will be appointed as an independent implementing agent to manage the design and construction work, whereas the department and the City of Tshwane will form a joint steering committee to oversee the project,” Mchunu explained.

The project will be implemented in stages with an emphasis on work to stop or reduce the pollution from Rooiwal in the early stages. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 12:53

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28 September 2023

South Africa, Lesotho BNC kicks off

Location: News

South Africa, Lesotho BNC kicks off

South Africa places great importance on its bilateral relations with its Southern African neighbour, the Kingdom of Lesotho.

This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who was delivering the opening address of the Inaugural Session of the South Africa – Lesotho Bi-National Commission (BNC) held in Pretoria.

According to the Presidency, the BNC session follows an agreement signed by the two countries in November 2021 to elevate the structured bilateral mechanism from a Joint Bilateral Commission of Co-operation (JBCC) that is held at a ministerial level, to a BNC that is presided over by the two Heads of State and Government.

“Our relationship is anchored in historic bonds of language, culture and heritage. We recall with gratitude that the Kingdom of Lesotho provided shelter and support to South Africa’s liberation movements during the struggle against apartheid,” President Ramaphosa said.

On issues of the economy, the President highlighted that economic ties between the two countries have been fruitful for both nations.

He added that the elevation of the BNC from its previous iteration to one led by the two leaders is testament of the commitment to deepening economic relations.

“Economic relations between our two countries have grown over the years and continue to mutually benefit our respective peoples. South African businesses in Lesotho contribute to job creation while Lesotho’s water resources continue to benefit South Africa.

“It is important for the governments of both countries to work together to resolve challenges faced by businesses and put in place mechanisms to ensure that investments are protected. The elevation of the Joint Bilateral Commission of Cooperation between South Africa and Lesotho to a Bi-National Commission is a testament to the unwavering commitment by our two countries to further bolster our relations for mutual benefit,” President Ramaphosa said.

Water and energy resources

Touching on issues of water supply, the President emphasised the rising importance of the water cooperation through the jointly driven Lesotho Highlands Water Project.

“South Africa highly appreciates the cooperation on water resources between the two countries. In particular, we welcome Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project as a vital development to enhance water security in the Gauteng province and other parts of South Africa.

“The Lesotho Highlands Water Project also contributes to job creation in Lesotho and the construction of new roads, bringing access to previously inaccessible areas of Lesotho. South Africa is ready to cooperate with Lesotho to resolve any challenges that may arise in the implementation of the project,” he said.

President Ramaphosa urged greater cooperation between the two countries on the development of renewable energy.

“South Africa is keen to work with the Kingdom of Lesotho on the four proposed renewable energy projects. In the face of the worsening effects of climate change, we need to be making significant investments to ensure water and energy security for our peoples into the future.

“Our respective ministers should continue their engagements so that we can see progress on these proposed developments,” he said.

Illegal mining

President Ramaphosa commended the Lesotho government on its “commitment…to cooperate with South Africa to deal with challenges of illegal mining in our country”.

“Such activity carries a great social and economic cost for both our countries. We were deeply saddened by the unfortunate loss of the lives of illegal miners in Harmony Gold Mine in Welkom.

“Our respective governments are working with the mining company on the best methods and plan to retrieve the bodies of the miners without endangering the rescue personnel,” President Ramaphosa said. - SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 13:07

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28 September 2023

BMA to safeguard SA’s borders

Location: News

BMA to safeguard SA’s borders

The newly established Border Management Authority (BMA) Commissioner, Dr Mike Masiapata, has assured South Africans that the entity will get rid of corruption and ensure that the country’s borders are safe.

The BMA came into effect on 1 April 2023, and it is expected to be officially launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa in Musina, Limpopo, next week.

Masiapata explained that the BMA was established to ensure that the country is protected.

Speaking at the National Press Club media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday, Masiapata said legislative frameworks had to be looked at prior to the establishment of the BMA.

“Since 1994, South Africa has been using a multi-agency approach in its border management. It was therefore decided that a single agency was needed to manage the country’s borders,” Masiapata said.

Masiapata said the previous multi-agency included seven departments and agencies, including the Departments of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development; Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment; Health; Home Affairs; the South African National Defence Force (SANDF); the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the South African Revenue Service (SARS), which all have a physical presence in the border environment.

Masiapata said managing the country’s borders has been a challenge, especially with the old system.

He explained that the aim of establishing the new agency was to deal with the challenges that the country faces.

“For almost 15 years, there have been some discussions to try and have the Border Management Authority established to deal with the challenges the country is faced with. There was a lot of corruption brought by the old system,” Masiapata said.

Masiapata said BMA officials will be thoroughly vetted.

The BMA has, since its inception, recorded successes, amongst them intercepting stolen vehicles.

In June 2013, Cabinet made the decision to establish a Border Management Agency under the guidance of the DHA.

The decision was taken in recognition of the National Intelligence Co-ordinating Committee (NICOC) 2012 Feasibility Study, which had highlighted weaknesses in border management.

The authority will be responsible for the execution of frontline border law enforcement functions related to, inter alia, port health, immigration control, access control, biosecurity, food safety and phyto-sanitary control, land border infrastructure development and maintenance, and border information and risk management.

It is intended that the new agency, the BMA, will adapt and respond effectively to the challenges, threats and opportunities that exist in the border environment whilst safe-guarding South Africa’s borders and meeting the country’s national, regional and global developmental responsibilities and human rights imperatives. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 15:29

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28 September 2023

Pandor pays tribute to the late Aziz Pahad

Location: News

Pandor pays tribute to the late Aziz Pahad

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, says Aziz Pahad will be remembered for his outstanding contribution to the fight against apartheid and life-long commitment to the promotion of human rights on the international stage.

Pahad passed away on Wednesday evening at the age of 82.

Pahad served as the Deputy Minister of the then Department of Foreign Affairs - now the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) from 1994 to 2008.

“In this role, Pahad became one of the first people at the forefront of establishing relations with the international community after many countries had severed ties with South Africa during the apartheid years,” the department said.

The department described the former Deputy Minister as a fierce proponent of an independent foreign policy for South Africa.

“He was a principled champion for human rights, especially the oppressed and marginalised people. From Palestine to Western Sahara, he spoke for the voiceless and was unwavering in his implementation of South Africa's foreign policy, which recognises the right to self-determination of the aforementioned peoples.”

In April 2021, the University of Pretoria conferred him an honorary doctorate in Literature for his “contributions to local and international peace, security, justice and international solidarity”.

The university said: “Pahad’s contributions and approach to diplomacy bring strong moral convictions, careful judgement and, above all, a quiet, influential determination in the search for solutions to South Africa’s challenges”.

Years after relinquishing his role in government, Pahad remained active in civic affairs.

In 2018, he chaired the Foreign Policy Review Panel appointed by Minister Lindiwe Sisulu.

“As a result of the report, DIRCO initiated a number of changes aimed at enhancing the implementation of South Africa's foreign policy.”

Post-retirement, Pahad also maintained close ties with those pursuing the Palestinian and Saharawi causes.

“These were causes he would remain dear to, for as long as he lived.”

At the Ubuntu Awards organised by DIRCO early this year, Pahad was awarded the OR Tambo Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contribution to a South Africa that is free and democratic and a world that is fair and just.

“On behalf of all South African diplomats at home and abroad, and all freedom-loving people of the world, we pass our deepest condolences to the Pahad family.

“May the indomitable spirit of Pahad continue to guide our country as we continue the search for a better South Africa and a better world.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 15:50

161 views

28 September 2023

9th BRICS Parliamentary Forum (PF) Converges to Foster Multilateralism, Cooperation, and Collaboration

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The 9th BRICS Parliamentary Forum (BRICS PF) got off to a remarkable start today as approximately 250 delegates from about 15 countries across different continents converged for discussions that reinforced the BRICS Parliaments' commitment to multilateralism, cooperation, and collaboration.

The BRICS PF is an interparliamentary forum composed of presiding officers of Parliaments from BRICS Member States - the Federative Republic of Brazil, the Russian Federation, the Republic of India, the People's Republic of China, and the Republic of South Africa, whose aim is to deepen collaboration, partnership, and progress.

The 9th BRICS PF is hosted by the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa, in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality in Gauteng Province under the theme: "Harnessing inclusive Multilateralism and Parliamentary Diplomacy to deepen BRICS and Africa Partnership for Accelerated Implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement."

Today's debate centred around the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and its potential impact on BRICS nations – as well as the crucial role that parliaments can play in maximizing its benefits. "This agreement presents BRICS nations with a significant opportunity by granting them improved access to the African market, creating new avenues for trade, and opening up possibilities for expanded investments," said National Assembly Speaker Ms. Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula.

Speaker Mapisa-Nqakula said that by collaborating closely with one another, BRICS nations can utilize their collective influence to promote fairer trade, alleviate trade barriers, and address existing imbalances. "This partnership offers an ideal platform to not only strengthen economic ties with Africa but also stimulate Africa's economic transformation process," she added.

Speaking during his keynote address, Deputy President Mr. Paul Mashatile said the BRICS PF has the potential to effect change on a global and unprecedented scale. "For starters, BRICS has focused the imagination of the world's population beyond the citizens of its member states. In and of itself, this is a good thing. However, we should not be surprised when this success factor attracts negative responses from some actors in the world despite the fact that BRICS is not opposed to any state parties or groups. Instead, we seek a peaceful and just world of equitable resource distribution."

National Council of Provinces Chairperson, Mr. Amos Masondo, said the discussions on the opening day were "characterized by a fruitful exchange of perspectives and expertise. They have enhanced our collective understanding and reinforced our commitment to our common objectives."

Chairperson Masondo said multilateralism is the cornerstone for BRICS. The BRICS countries have shown greater resolve to pursue multilateralism with the aim of creating a fairer, peaceful, and secure world. Consistent with the understanding that multilateralism is key to containing international rivalries, BRICS has expressed its commitment to multilateralism through upholding international law.

Also speaking on the opening day, former National Assembly Speaker Ms. Baleka Mbete reminisced about the formative years of the BRICS PF. Ms. Mbete, who is also a former Deputy President of the Republic, said that by signing the Memorandum of Understanding on the BRICS Parliamentary Forum, "BRICS parliaments are establishing a platform that seeks to streamline and coordinate our parliamentary contributions to the vision of BRICS."

It is all systems go for tomorrow as the delegates to the BRICS PF are expected to sign a ground breaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will define the general cooperative strategy of the legislative organs of the BRICS Member States. The MoU will enable the members of the BRICS PF to coordinate efforts aimed at developing and strengthening the inter-parliamentary relations of BRICS Member States concerning issues of common interest.

The format of tomorrow's session, which starts at 09:30am, will include breakaways into commissions which will discuss four broad themes as follows:

i). BRICS and Africa Partnership – Promotion and Acceleration of Regional Integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA);

ii). BRICS Energy Issues – Just transition of Coal to Hydrogen Energy;

iii). Climate change and Legislative mobilization in BRICS countries; and

iv). BRICS Peace and Security: Can Multilateralism Restore Peace and Security?

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

28 September 2023

SA to participate in international agriculture exhibition

Location: News

SA to participate in international agriculture exhibition

South Africa is to participate in the sixth International Exhibition of Agriculture and Animal Resources to be held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

Known as the Salon International de l’agriculture et des Resources Animales (SARA), the bi-annual event brings together the agricultural expertise present in Ivory Coast, the sub-region and the world.

SARA aims to promote agriculture products, livestock farming, fishing, forestry, and the agro-food industry.

Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Deputy Minister, Mcebisi Skwatsha, will attend the sixth edition of SARA, taking place from 29 September to 08 October 2023.

The department said the event is a pragmatic implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) through inter-regional and inter-country value chains development.

“Various stakeholders across the South African agriculture fraternity will spearhead South Africa’s exhibition during the Abidjan Fair. This will promote technical and technological expertise and richness of our local products.

“Furthermore, it will expose South Africa’s small producers to the international market system,” the department said in a statement.

The event will be held under the theme “African Agriculture facing the challenges of internal and external shocks: What structural innovations to improve the agricultural sectors and guarantee the food sovereignty of our countries?” – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 13:24

194 views

28 September 2023

Cabinet approves revised game meat strategy for South Africa

Location: News

Cabinet approves revised game meat strategy for South Africa

Cabinet has approved the implementation of the Revised Game Meat Strategy for South Africa, which seeks to formalise and transform the game meat industry.

Briefing the media in Pretoria on the outcomes of Cabinet meeting on Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the strategy is also designed to contribute towards food security for the country.

“It aims to strengthen the game meat sector as both provider of food security and an economic growth sector that can help create job opportunities,” Ntshavheni said.

South Africa is ranked number one on the African continent for game meat production and therefore, said the Minister, needs to take full advantage of the economic opportunities that the sector provides.

“Ultimately, the strategy seeks to ensure the creation of 202 666 sustainable jobs in the game meat industry by 2030.”

The strategy will be published on the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment website at www.dffe.gov.za.

Tourism Master Plan

Cabinet has also given the go ahead for the Department of Tourism to align the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan to a new Tourism Master Plan.

An important component of the Master Plan is to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism sector and provides a road map for full recovery of tourism in the country.

The Tourism Sector Recovery Plan was developed to facilitate the recovery of the sector, preserve jobs and protect livelihoods.

Ntshavheni said the Master Plan will take this work to another level and facilitate new opportunities in the sector.

“The plan proposes seven intervention strategies to ensure the tourism sector returns to its glory days and that the sector becomes the centre of job creation and entrepreneurship. These interventions include stimulating demand through rigorous campaigns, promoting South Africa internationally and cutting red tape in the processing of visas and tour operator licences.

“The tourism industry is a vital contributor to the economy and supported 725 000 jobs before COVID 19. Cabinet believes that the interventions will go a long way in restoring the role of tourism in the economy and job creation,” Ntshavheni said.

Competition Commission’s work commended

Meanwhile, Cabinet commended the work of the Competition Commission in addressing monopoly concerns in digital intermediation platforms, including ecommerce, online travel agencies, food delivery, app stores, classifieds providers and search engines.

This comes after Cabinet received a report from the Commission outlining the findings and remedial actions on the Online Intermediation Platform Market Inquiry.

Ntshavheni said Cabinet has directed Ministers of the Economic Cluster to interrogate the policy implications and recommend required policy reforms.

“Cabinet encouraged the Commission to continue its good work in enabling SME’s and previously disadvantaged people, especially Black people to actively participate in the economy of their country,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 11:30

222 views

28 September 2023

MultiChoice celebrates African finalists in The Earthshot Prize

Location: News

The Earthshot Prize has announced the 15 Finalists for this year's Prize at the second Earthshot Innovation Summit (https://apo-opa.info/3ZCnC1i), an event held alongside the UN General Assembly, in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies, to celebrate and champion innovators focused on solving our most pressing global climate challenges.

Out of over 1,100 nominations, the 15 Finalists for The Earthshot Prize stood out following a rigorous evaluation process conducted by a panel of scientific, academic, and subject-matter experts. Each of these Finalists stands a chance to win one of the five £1 million prizes designed to propel their initiatives towards greater impact. The unveiling of the five Winners will take place at the third annual Earthshot Prize awards ceremony scheduled later this year in Singapore.

Furthermore, all the Finalists will benefit from invaluable mentorship, resources, and technical support through The Earthshot Prize Fellowship Programme. This program will also provide them with access to a robust network of influential businesses, investors, and climate experts.

The Earthshot Prize revolves around five transformative 'Earthshots,' each embodying simple yet ambitious goals that represent the world we aspire to build for future generations.

In the spirit of celebrating African innovation, we are proud to highlight two remarkable finalists from the continent: Freetown the Tree Town representing Sierra Leone and ABALOBI from South Africa.

These African finalists come after Mukuru Clean Stoves, a start-up providing cleaner-burning stoves to women in Kenya to reduce unhealthy indoor pollution and provide a safer way to cook, won the coveted environmental prize during the inspirational awards ceremony hosted in Boston last year.

Freetown the Tree Town is a visionary initiative aimed at reforesting landscapes, restoring the degraded coastline of Freetown, and creating sustainable green jobs. The project meticulously tracks newly planted trees, assigning them to local tree guardians, and publicly documenting their growth, resulting in an impressively high survival rate for newly planted trees.

ABALOBI, on the other hand, is a community-centric mobile application supporting small-scale fishers in their quest for sustainable fishing practices while preventing the overfishing of at-risk species. It also enhances boat and fisher safety by providing real-time weather warnings and tracking capabilities. The initiative has already expanded its reach beyond South Africa, directly benefiting over 1,600 fishers with a substantial increase in revenue due to better access to profitable markets for sustainable species.

"We are immensely proud to see African innovation shining on the global stage through the Earthshot Prize. At MultiChoice, as a proudly African organization, we believe in the power of homegrown solutions to address the world's most pressing challenges. These African finalists exemplify that spirit, and we salute their remarkable efforts in safeguarding our planet for future generations,” says Keabetswe Modimoeng, Group Executive at MultiChoice Group.

By participating in this prestigious prize, African innovators gain a platform to showcase their solutions, inspire corporate entities to join the fight against climate change, and urge governments to prioritize climate action on their national agendas.

In addition to the chance to win the £1 million prize, all Finalists will receive tailored support and resources from The Earthshot Prize Global Alliance Members, an unprecedented network of private sector businesses worldwide dedicated to scaling innovative climate and environmental solutions to maximize their impact.

The five Winners will be carefully selected by The Earthshot Prize Council, a diverse team of influential individuals committed to leveraging their platforms to champion inspiring leadership and elevate urgent efforts to restore and regenerate our planet.

The Earthshot Prize is a truly global initiative, bringing together a diverse coalition of nominators from over 200 individuals and organizations worldwide. It encompasses a distinguished Expert Advisory Panel and The Earthshot Prize Council, comprising influential figures who wholeheartedly support positive environmental action.

The fifteen Finalists have earned their place through rigorous assessment and their potential to make a game-changing impact on a global scale, all while contributing positively to people, communities, and the natural world.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.

MultiChoice Group Contact Details:
Litlhare Moteetee
Corporate Communications
Tel: +27 11 289 3312
Litlhare.Moteetee@Multichoice.co.za

Follow The Earthshot Prize on:
Instagram: https://apo-opa.info/3t9maY3
Twitter: https://apo-opa.info/48xVIqZ
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.info/48zXXue
Facebook: https://apo-opa.info/458AlK6
YouTube: https://apo-opa.info/45pFAW5
TikTok: https://apo-opa.info/48xWiFb

About MultiChoice Group:
MultiChoice Group (MCG), which was listed in the Main Board of the JSE on 27 February 2019, is one of the fastest-growing video entertainment providers globally, delivering entertainment products and services to 23.5m households across 50 countries on the African continent. Its track record of more than 30 years is reflective of a commitment to providing audiences with only the best local, sports and international content.

MCG's strong partnerships with distributors, installers, and telecommunication companies, along with its well-established payment solutions, competitive pricing and choice of viewership packages continue to secure its place in the global market, while also providing solutions unique to the African market.

Its direct-to-home (DTH), digital terrestrial television (DTT) and over-the-top (OTT) solutions enable the business to stay relevant and aligned to changing consumer habits while capturing new markets.

Content is at the very core of the business. MCG aims to deliver quality content anywhere, anytime and on any device through a comprehensive video entertainment offering at different price points. As pioneers in African video entertainment, MCG plays an important role in making information and entertainment easily accessible to Africans.

MCG aims to secure content rights in a manner that is cost-effective and reflective of the diversity of its audiences. Its substantial portfolio includes award-winning local content (a key differentiator in its service offering), a leading sport offering (including production capabilities) and access to international content, which is all shared on the group's platforms: DStv, GOtv, Showmax, M-Net and SuperSport.

MCG has superior technology capability through the security solutions that Irdeto, its technology company, brings to the group. These solutions enable MultiChoice to protect its investment, create new offerings and combat cybercrime. With 50 years' expertise in software security, Irdeto's software security solutions and cyber services protect over 5bn devices and applications for some of the world's best brands.

About The Earthshot Prize:
Founded by Prince William and incubated in The Royal Foundation in 2020 for a year before becoming an independent platform/organization, The Earthshot Prize is a global environmental prize and platform designed to discover, accelerate and scale ground-breaking solutions to repair and regenerate the planet. Inspired by President John F. Kennedy's Moonshot, which united millions of people around the goal of reaching the moon, The Earthshot Prize aims to catalyze an Earthshot challenge to urgently encourage and scale innovative solutions that can help put the world firmly on a trajectory towards a stable climate, where communities, oceans and biodiversity thrive in harmony by 2030. The five challenges are: Protect and Restore Nature; Clean Our Air; Revive Our Oceans; Build a Waste-Free World; and Fix Our Climate.

The Prize aims to turn the current pessimism surrounding environmental issues into optimism by championing inspiring leadership and helping to scale incredible cutting-edge solutions. It will discover 50 winners over 10 years with the power to repair the planet. More than an award, The Earthshot Prize works in partnership with a Global Alliance of Partners to support the scaling of the solutions discovered and selected each year. For more information about The Earthshot Prize, visit: www.EarthshotPrize.org.

Media files

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28 September 2023

Top litigation lawyer returns to her roots at Bowmans

Location: MyPR

Leading African law firm Bowmans is further strengthening its dispute resolution capacity in South Africa by appointing senior litigation lawyer Vanessa Jacklin-Levin as a partner in its Johannesburg Litigation Practice. ‘Vanessa is one of the most highly regarded dispute resolution lawyers in South Africa, with a formidable combination of skills, not only in litigation, adjudications …

28 September 2023

South Africa’s booming tourism industry is poised for long term success

Location: MyPR

South Africa’s booming tourism industry is poised for long term success South Africa’s tourism industry has emerged strongly from the effects of the pandemic. Within the next 10 years, the sector is expected to contribute 800,000 jobs and R287 billion to the national economy. Furthermore, according to the Department of Tourism, the country hosted more …

28 September 2023

Early Childhood Development Programmes Should Be Free

Location: News

Only a third of children in SA are enrolled in ECD programmes

28 September 2023

KZN Premier pays tribute to Zoleka Mandela

Location: News

KZN Premier pays tribute to Zoleka Mandela

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has joined South Africans in expressing her deepest condolences to the Mandela family on the passing of Zoleka Mandela.

Mandela, who was the granddaughter of the late first South African democratically elected President Nelson Mandela and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, passed away on Monday at the age of 43.

She was admitted to hospital on 18 September 2023 for ongoing treatment for metastatic cancer in the hip, liver, lung, pelvis, brain and spinal cord.

In her tribute, Dube-Ncube said Mandela was a brave and outspoken advocate for cancer awareness.

“Her story and her fight against cancer inspired many people to seek help and support those who are affected by cancer, and her legacy will live on in the work that continues to be done to raise awareness on cancer.

“Zoleka Mandela was a fighter: at a young age she fought abuse and later in life she fought cancer, and in her battle with cancer she became an inspiration to many people. Zoleka was a loving mother to her children, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier said Mandela’s legacy will live on in the work that continues to be done to improve the lives of cancer patients in South Africa.

She urged people who are battling cancer to seek help at an early stage so that it is detected and attended to.

“There are many resources available to help people get the support they need, and there is no shame in asking for help. If you are struggling with cancer, please know that you are not alone.

“There are many people who care about you and want to help. Please reach out to a trusted friend or family member, or contact health professionals," Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 09/27/2023 - 12:27

459 views

27 September 2023

Boldy Accurate Songstress Dr. Luanga Choba Returns with Powerful EP, ‘Gonzo & Other Stories,’ Unveiling a Decade of Artistic Evolution and Empowerment

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

Mystical, potent, and utterly captivating, singer-songwriter Luanga Choba is back after a nine-year sabbatical with a powerful new EP about reclaiming one’s feminine energy and casting off the ‘yoke’ or burden of womanhood. The launch of the EP takes place on 30 September 2023 at the Umlilo Flame & Grill Restaurant in Rustenburg. Don’t miss …

27 September 2023

Ministry of Foreign Affairs co-hosts “the Colours of Africa 2023” events

Location: News

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand
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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the African Embassies in Bangkok, namely, Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria and South Africa, as well as Khon Kaen Province, Khon Kaen Chamber of Commerce, Khon Kaen University and Young Ambassador of Virtue Foundation organised the Colours of Africa 2023 events during 13 - 14 September on 21 September 2023. The events sought to promote public awareness, including the private sector and the academia, on the African continent, as well as the potential of trade, investment and tourism opportunities in Africa.

The activities included:

1. The Seminar on Trade and Investment Opportunities in Africa on 13 September 2023 at Avani Hotel Khon Kaen, with speakers including African ambassadors to Thailand and successful Thai entrepreneurs. The session observed the exchange of knowledge on trade and investment opportunities in Africa, as well as first-hand experience on conducting business in the region to the audience comprising of entrepreneurs from Khon Kaen and nearby provinces.

2. Academic Lecture on Africa on 14 September 2023 at Khon Kaen University, under the topic “The African Union Agenda 2063” and “Nelson Mandela: The Epitome of Ethical Leadership in Africa and the World: Learning from his Legacy for a better Africa and a Humane World Order,” was given by the African Ambassadors to Thailand, with more than 300 students and lecturers from Khon Kaen University participated. On this occasion, the African Ambassadors also visited the university's Faculty of Agriculture, which already had academic cooperation with various universities in Africa.

3. The Student Quiz Competition, Games and Exhibitions to enhance knowledge on Africa on 21 September 2023 at Vithes Samosorn, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with more than 200 participants, including students and teachers from 23 Thai schools around Thailand affiliated with the Young Ambassador of Virtue Foundation. During the quiz's final round, Ms. Busadee Santipitaks, Acting Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Director-General of the Department of South Asian, Middle East and African Affairs, and African Ambassadors to Thailand were invited to ask questions and present scholarships to the winning teams, as well as tokens of appreciation and certificates to all participating students.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand.

27 September 2023

Communities urged to be cautious as inclement weather still expected

Location: News

Communities urged to be cautious as inclement weather still expected

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Thembi Nkadimeng, has urged communities across the country to be extra cautious as the potential for further inclement and windy weather conditions remains high.

According to the department, the Minister is concerned about the prevailing adverse weather conditions characterised by wildfires and heavy rains affecting most provinces.

“The Minister urges communities across the country to be extra cautious as the potential for further inclement and windy weather conditions remains high,” the statement read.

Nkadimeng has directed respective disaster management centres to activate relief and response measures to ensure the preservation of life through their rescue and recovery efforts.

The Western and Eastern Cape have thus far experienced major flooding, resulting in significant damage to infrastructure and property.

“Sadly, several communities have been displaced and some roads are inaccessible, which is detrimentally affecting lives and livelihoods.”

The department said it has noted the high alert early warning issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), particularly for the Western and Eastern Cape.

Some of the worst-hit areas include the City of Cape Town, Garden Route, Central Karoo District; West Coast District, Theewaterskloof, Gugulethu, Sarah Baartman and Nelson Mandela.

“Based on the reports and the weather forecast for the next couple of days as predicted by the SAWS, communities must be extra vigilant, especially in coastal areas.”

Warnings have also been extended for some parts of Gauteng and Mpumalanga for 27 September 2023.

“The heavy rains are accompanied by strong winds which can lead to high tide, with the ocean's waters creeping up the shore, thus endangering lives.”

To this effect, the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) is working collaboratively with Disaster Management Teams from across the three spheres of government and other teams to provide assistance where required.

“Minister calls on all social sectors and partners to mobilise aid and resources to respond adequately to the needs of affected communities.”

As more rain is still expected, the Minister calls on communities to observe the following safety measures:

- Be extra vigilant and exercise caution, especially in flood-prone areas.

- Follow regular updates and warning messages from the SAWS.

- Work with relevant authorities and follow safety tips.

- Those residing in low-lying areas must take extra care during storms, as sudden floods might affect them.

- Monitor the rising water levels and evacuate the areas to a safer place in case or water level rises.

- Be cautious of power lines that might be lying on the roads and debris on the roads.

- Cross through flooded roads or bridges or low-lying bridges, streams and rivers – use other safer routes.

- Try not to walk, swim or drive in swift-flowing water. Even if the water is 15 cm deep, it can sweep you off your feet.

- Motorists are urged to drive and park in safer areas.

- The public should contact their municipal disaster management centres or the nearest police station or call the national emergency numbers (112, 10177 or 107) when faced with threats.

- Sensitise children about the dangers of floods.

- Keep important documents in a water-resistant container.

- Keep your cellphone near you and have emergency numbers at hand.

- Be vigilant at night as it is harder to recognise potentially deadly road hazards.

- Beware of possible water contamination due to raw sewage or other dangerous substances. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 09/27/2023 - 10:51

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27 September 2023

Thought-Leaders to Deliver Technical Presentations at Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) Summit

Location: News

With the aim of advancing dialogue around Africa's critical mineral opportunities and fostering new deals, the upcoming Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) summit (www.CriticalMineralsAfrica.com) will feature a strong slate of technical presentations delivered by thought-leaders and industry experts.

The technical presentations will address the most prominent challenges impacting industry growth, with speakers providing insight into sustainable solutions, capital and technology prospects and how the continent can create the mineral value chains of the future. The event takes place from 17 to 19 October 2023 at the Cape Town International Convention Center and runs concurrently with Africa's largest energy event, African Energy Week (AEW).

During the conference, presentations will be delivered under the theme Promoting Sustainable Partnerships, Policies and Projects in Raw Materials and Strengthening Global Critical Mineral Supply Chains.

Presentations include:

Futures of SADC Critical Minerals: Building Anticipatory Governance, presented by Dr. Deon Cloete, Head: South Africa Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) Futures Program at SAIIA
Low Carbon Supply Chains: China has Plenty of Capacity, Others Lag, presented by Per Magnus Nysveen, Senior Partner & Head of Analysis at Rystad Energy
Critical Minerals Global Supply and Demand Update, presented by the International Energy Agency
AfricaMaVal Project Update, presented by Sodhie Naicker, Director at AfricaMaVal
Steenkampskraal: World's Rare Earth and Thorium Hotspot, presented by Graham Soden, Director, CEO and Mine Manager at Steenkampskraal
Building Local Battery Industries in South Africa: Exploring Opportunities for Localization, presented by Lesego Moshikaro, Senior Economist, Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies

As global interest in Africa's critical minerals grows, the CMA 2023 technical presentations will support decision-making by providing stakeholders with the insight they need to make informed investments. Under the broader event theme of Establishing the Critical Mineral Value Chains of the Future, the presentations delve into the complexities of the industry and the strategic role Africa plays in supplying the global market.

CMA and AEW (October 16-20) are poised to host over 5,000 combined delegates, who will have the opportunity to participate in country spotlights, investor roundtables and in-focus sessions on the energy transition, energy security, resource supply chains and new technologies.

Organized by Energy Capital & Power, Africa's premier investment platform for the energy sector, the much-anticipated global summit for African critical minerals will bring together a diverse group of global investors, energy and mining professionals, project operators and government leaders during a pivotal moment for the continent's energy and mining industries.

CMA 2023 represents the official dealmaking space for the industry and stands at the intersection of the energy and mining sectors in Africa. Since the launch, CMA has seen significant interest by global investors and buyers, all of which are looking at signing deals in Africa's mineral space. The program is filling up fast, and mineral, energy, technology and finance leaders are encouraged to secure their pass before the summit fills up.

Get involved at the CMA 2023 summit as a speaker, panelist, presenter, sponsor or exhibitor. For more information, visit www.CriticalMineralsAfrica.com or contact james@energycapitalpower.com

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

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27 September 2023

Superdry South Africa And Cheslin Kolbe Join Forces To Ignite Inspiration Across Mzansi.

Location: MyPR

Superdry South Africa unveils its latest campaign featuring local brand ambassador, rugby sensation and South African World Cup Winner, Cheslin Kolbe. The launch of this initiative aligns perfectly with the Rugby World Cup, which commenced on September 8th, 2023. Superdry’s latest campaign seeks to ignite inspiration across Mzansi and encourages us to embrace better choices …

27 September 2023

SA should accelerate mass youth employment, entrepreneurship – Mashatile

Location: News

SA should accelerate mass youth employment, entrepreneurship - Mashatile

South Africa should prioritise the creation of mass youth employment and business opportunities, said Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

The Deputy President believes that this should be done by implementing policies that foster entrepreneurship, enhance vocational training, improve access to finance, and encourage private-sector investment.

“We can empower our youth and pave the way for a prosperous future,” he stressed.

The country’s second-in-command was delivering the keynote address at the South African Youth Economic Council (SAYEC) Gala Dinner at the Marriot Hotel in Johannesburg, on Tuesday.

The platform focused on “assessing government and private sector policies necessary for mass youth employment and business opportunities in South Africa”.

“This theme serves as a compelling call for both the government and private sector to collaborate to evaluate and deliberate on strategies that can expedite the involvement of young individuals in the critical sectors of the economy.”

As government, he told the delegates that the government values the role that youth and youth bodies, including SAYEC, play in moulding the nation's future and propelling its development.

“Your energy, creativity, and determination possess the potential to unlock untapped opportunities within our economy.”

He acknowledged that like other countries globally, South Africa is grabbling with challenges of unemployment.

“Furthermore, some challenges are associated with effectively integrating young people into the economy.”

He also stressed a need for further development of the skills necessary to secure formal employment or establish successful business opportunities specifically tailored for youth.

Deputy President Mashatile encouraged youngsters with an aptitude for business to grab entrepreneurial opportunities and start enterprises relevant to their skills.

“South Africa has a diverse economy with several promising sectors that entrepreneurs can take advantage of.”

He said sectors currently driving the economy include manufacturing, retail, financial services, mining, agriculture, tourism, and the green industry.

“The green sector offers a range of possibilities for entrepreneurs interested in sustainable and environmentally friendly technologies and practices.”

Renewable energy, he said, particularly solar, waste management, including recycling, and sustainable packaging is currently crucial.

“There are also opportunities to meet the growing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient building practices in South Africa.”

He went on to touch on investing in the mining sector.

“We agree with you that this is an important sector that we must teach our young people how to run and manage these industries, as they are the future and next generation of industry leaders.

“The current state of the mining industry is not very impressive. We presently export raw materials, and we must create opportunities for youth-led manufacturing and industrial endeavours,” he admitted.

He said mining is a costly endeavour, requiring the creation of more funding opportunities for youth.

“I urged the youth to interact with a variety of investors to provide more capital so that the youth can transform their ideas into reality and become producers and not just consumers.”

“We must create an enabling policy framework encouraging private sector investment in youth-focused industries,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 09/27/2023 - 11:49

163 views

27 September 2023

“Hi-Tec Launches Their Novel Store – Where Indoor Meets Outdoor”

Location: MyPR

Hi-Tec launches their brand-new store in Tyger Valley Shopping Centre Hi-Tec will proudly unveil its new and immersive store at Tyger Valley Shopping Centre, which is one of Cape Town’s largest shopping malls. This brand-new store aims to create an innovative and exciting shopping experience through thoughtful design and engaging features that will educate shoppers …

27 September 2023

Africa must collaborate on green energy agenda

Location: News

Africa must collaborate on green energy agenda

Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says intra-Africa collaboration will be important in the drive towards decarbonisation and strengthening energy security on the continent.

The Minister was addressing the UNESCO 9th Africa Engineering Week held in Gauteng on Tuesday.

“The power pool on the SADC [Southern African Development Community] side is essentially matured (sic). I’m told that there is a similar power pool that is taking shape on the eastern side and the western part of the continent. I think that once we pool all of that together, we are going to get to a situation where we are going to exploit the opportunities that are presented.

“The major discoveries of gas on the west coast of the continent… Namibia is far advanced in that. There’s a significant amount of deposits on the east side… Mozambique has been doing that for some time. Central Africa… the degree to which we are able to use hydro.

“If you pool all of these things together you can see that the possibilities of us greening becomes real and I think we are going to benefit from these opportunities and resources if we are able to…collaborate better. That level of cooperation will be necessary going into the future and then we become energy secure,” he said.

The minister further emphasised that because of its rich endowment in resources that are essential to the green economy, Africa must set its own standards.

“What drives us is the quest to ensure that we industrialise on the back of these renewable resources [and] on the back of the demand that is coming from the major western countries.

“We will define what those standards are as Africans; we don’t need to be lectured by someone from outside. We know what is in our collective interest and for as long as we are disjointed we are going to be super exploited. We must determine the standards and no-one should be doing that on our behalf,” Ramokgopa said.

The minister added that although renewable energy sources remain important, South Africa will pursue an energy mix that fits the country’s needs.

“Renewable energy is important. We are committed to decarbonisation and we are endowed. But remember that renewable energy survives of the redundancy of baseload - so coal, gas, nuclear [and] hydro are going to be part of the energy mix going into the future.

“The success of renewable energy is undergirded by the presence of baseloads so we are not about to abandon or relinquish that resource. It’s about making sure that there’s an optimal mix. It’s not a binary conversation, it’s not the one against the other but it’s doing both in a balanced way,” he said.

Turning to the South African context, Ramokgopa said the country – with its deep resources of minerals used in green hydrogen production – can take advantage of the world’s thirst for clean energy sources.

“It’s important that we are able to exploit these resources… the best radiation, the best wind speeds are found here on the continent and in this country. So it’s important that we are able to domesticate value addition. We know that…there are about 60 countries globally that have committed to a net zero path.

“Some of the most industrialised countries account for over 70% of the emissions and therefore they are prepared to pay a premium for them to access this green hydrogen. In some instances your market will be driven by the international market. For us as a country, because of the large scale amount of… industrial uses in the heavy industry, you can still deploy green hydrogen.

“And also the potential of the introduction of carbon borders is likely going to ensure that there’s an early uptake of this green hydrogen even given the cost premium so that these industries are able to continue to access those lucrative markets,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 09/27/2023 - 10:19

159 views

27 September 2023

In a declining SA market, diversifying real estate portfolios offshore makes qualified sense

Location: MyPR

There is a perception that property is a good investment delivering healthy returns over time. A bonded property requires that the property owner practices financial discipline and makes regular monthly repayments with the end result being a fully paid off asset. Depending on the property cycle when the property was acquired, that perception has held …

27 September 2023

Mayor signs declaration to assist Cape Town communities affected by storm

Location: News

Mayor signs declaration to assist Cape Town communities affected by storm

Cape Town Mayor, Geordin Hill-Lewis, has signed a major incident declaration that allows for the unlocking of additional resources and relief measures to deal with the impact of the recent severe storm.

Hill-Lewis said the city is working around the clock to assist communities impacted by the storm, which wreaked havoc in the Western Cape over the weekend.

The severe weather has resulted in significant damage due to flooding, mudslides, rockfalls, fallen trees, and damage to buildings and infrastructure, as well as the disruption of services.

Giving an update on the City of Cape Town's disaster response, Hill-Lewis said at least eight fatalities in the city have been linked to the severe weather impact.

He said while many areas were significantly affected, the Helderberg area - including Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, Sandvlei Macassar, Strand, Somerset-West and Gordon’s Bay - was particularly badly affected, with extensive mudslides affecting Sir Lowry’s Pass Village.

The mayor said significant work is under way to assist with recovery, to offer humanitarian relief, and to reconstruct and rehabilitate the affected areas.

“It is very important for me to have visited the affected areas in Sir Lowry’s Pass Village and Rasta Kamp and to make an assessment of the number of structures that will need to be rebuilt and people needing immediate relief due to the damages. Today, as Mayor, I signed the necessary documents required to declare a major incident, which will enable a greater response,” Hill-Lewis said.

The mayor also conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families who lost loved ones through various tragic incidents.

“May we keep these families in our prayers and thoughts.”

The mayor also expressed his appreciation to the city officials who worked throughout the weekend, and continue to support the affected residents.

“I wish to thank all members of the public and organisations who have donated food items, clothing and other items as part of the community response. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has been advised of the incident and has been requested to provide social relief assistance,” Hill-Lewis said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 09/27/2023 - 09:44

97 views

27 September 2023

AUTO24 launches its pre-owned car marketplace to four current markets

Location: Business

AUTO24.africa redefining automotive retail across the continent offering unparalleled and exclusive services; AUTO24 is a subsidiary of Africar Group in which Stellantis (www.Stellantis.com/en) has a controlling stake; This expansion positions the platform to become the continent's number one multi-brand retailer for used cars; Stellantis, continues to back the platform on its ambitious journey.

AUTO24.africa, an innovative pre-owned car marketplace, announced its expansion into four new African markets: Morocco, Rwanda, Senegal and South Africa. This move comes after a remarkably successful first year in Ivory Coast and positions the platform to become the continent's number one multi-brand retailer for used cars. Following last year's investment from Stellantis, AUTO24.africa is revolutionizing the African automotive sector with first-of-its-kind customer offerings.

AUTO24.africa offers unparalleled and exclusive services, including a five-day refund policy, a six-month warranty, one-year maintenance, and one-year insurance plans for all vehicles. The platform also provides convenient financing options in association with several partners. These benefits are a first in many African countries and redefine the standard for car ownership across the continent.

Stellantis, as main investor, continues to back AUTO24.africa in its ambitious journey which is perfectly aligns with Stellantis' strategic plan DARE FORWARD 2030 by participating to expanded of our offer of mobility solutions to widely meet the customer needs in Africa.

Africar Group, the parent company of AUTO24.africa, has been a pioneer in online automotive classifieds in Sub-Saharan Africa since its founding in Australia in 2016. The company leverages cutting-edge technology to offer seamless digital experiences that meet the unique needs of the African market.

This year's expansion is a part of AUTO24.africa's long-term vision to become the leading multi-brand certified pre-owned car retailer in Africa. The platform aims to introduce even more features and capabilities that will further elevate the automotive buying and selling experience, all with trust and transparency.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Stellantis.

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About Stellantis:
Stellantis N.V. (NYSE: STLA / Euronext Milan: STLAM / Euronext Paris: STLAP) is one of the world's leading automakers and a mobility provider. Its storied and iconic brands embody the passion of their visionary founders and today's customers in their innovative products and services, including Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Citroën, Dodge, DS Automobiles, Fiat, Jeep®, Lancia, Maserati, Opel, Peugeot, Ram, Vauxhall, Free2move and Leasys. Powered by our diversity, we lead the way the world moves – aspiring to become the greatest sustainable mobility tech company, not the biggest, while creating added value for all stakeholders as well as the communities in which it operates. For more information, visit www.Stellantis.com.

About Africar Group:
Africar Group Pty Ltd is an Australian entity, owning, operating and growing the largest network of automotive marketplaces in Africa. Available in more than 45 countries, and covering markets totalling more than 1 billion people, it has been helping millions of buyers and sellers of pre-owned vehicles to transact safer and easier over the last 5 years. Africar Group is a venture initiated by Emerging Classifieds Ventures (www.ECV.Ventures), specialising in building and operating marketplaces in emerging markets. For more information, visit www.AfricarGroup.c om

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27 September 2023

Public Relations Student and Industry Matchmaking Event

Location: MyPR

Connecting tomorrow’s PR professionals with today’s industry leaders The future of Public Relations (PR) in the Eastern Cape is getting brighter. The Department of Media and Communication will host an event on Friday, September 29 at the Nelson Mandela University’s Indoor Sport Centre, aimed to connect PR students with established industry professionals. Nelson Mandela University’s …