African

19 September 2023

Cable manufacturing company to create jobs

Location: News

Cable manufacturing company to create jobs

A Vereeniging-based cable manufacturing company aims to create jobs for locals through the expansion of its cable manufacturing facility starting from October 2023 to 2025.

M-TEC is one of the companies that made investment pledges at the fifth South African Investment Conference that was hosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa in Johannesburg in April this year.

Pledges made at the conference contributed to bringing the total value of investment pledges, over a five-year investment mobilisation period, to R1.51 trillion, thereby exceeding the initial target of R1.2 trillion set by President Ramaphosa.

M-TEC made the R70 million investment pledge, and says there is an estimated 15 new jobs that will be created by the project from 2023 to end of 2024.

According to the Senior Sales Manager at M-TEC, George Lephoto, the investment is critical, as it will present economic development, economic growth and much needed job opportunities.

“The investment will reinforce and increase our productivity levels as well as our cable manufacturing capacity. This means more jobs will be created, capacity increased for the company, as well as profitability increased. This will undoubtedly boost our economy,” said Lephoto.

M-TEC manufactures cross-linked polyethylene cables. They are producers of medium voltage, low voltage and aerial bundle cables, which are widely supplied to the local municipality, electrical distributors, construction industries and mines in South Africa and internationally.

The company is ranked as one of South Africa’s largest manufacturers and suppliers of aluminium overhead conductors, copper products, low and medium voltage power cables and various optical fibre cables. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 09/19/2023 - 11:47

277 views

19 September 2023

The Ultimate Guide to Industry-Specific and Regional SEO Services in SA

Location: MyPR

Introduction In today’s digital age, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) has become a cornerstone of any successful business strategy. In South Africa, where enterprises span a myriad of industries and regions, understanding the nuances of SEO is critical. This comprehensive guide aims to break down the importance of industry-specific and region-based SEO services in South Africa. …

19 September 2023

Foreign-qualified medical doctors to finally sit for board exams

Location: News

Foreign-qualified medical doctors to finally sit for board exams

The Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) announced on Monday the appointment a new service provider for foreign-qualified medical doctors to sit for their board exams.

This comes after South African foreign-qualified doctors encountered numerous delays due to administrative challenges.

Earlier this month, a group of jobless doctors who studied overseas, marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to raise their grievances about their inability to write their board exams so that they could start practising.

“The appointment of the new service provider was a lengthy process. However, I am pleased to announce that a new contract has been signed with the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) to manage the HPCSA Medical Board Examinations for the next three years,” HPCSA Registrar, Dr Magome Masike, said on Monday.

The HPCSA said it regrets the delay in arranging the board medical examinations.

“The medical board examinations were previously managed by an external service provider on behalf of the Medical and Dental Professional Board. The contract with the previous service provider has since expired,” the council explained.

The HPCSA announced that the first round of examinations will take place as soon as October.

According to the statement, the theory exams will be written on 25 October 2023 at the UKZN Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine.

Meanwhile, the practical exams will be held between 5 and 8 December 2023 at the Howard College Campus.

“Applicants who meet the requirements will be invited to sit for the set examination soon,” the council said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 09/19/2023 - 13:23

116 views

19 September 2023

Simple games assist children learn to read

Location: News

Even a cereal box can be a useful teaching tool

19 September 2023

World leaders called to champion women, children health agenda

Location: News

World leaders called to champion women, children health agenda

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on Heads of State and Government to join the Global Leaders Network to champion the women, children and adolescent health agenda.

The President was addressing the High Level Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH) event on Monday at the UNICEF headquarters in New York, USA.

“As Heads of State, we can provide leadership and inspire ambitious action. We have the convening power to mobilise our peers and advance policies, programmes and financing initiatives for improved outcomes.

“As part of our agenda, we must challenge the disregard in many communities and countries for the sexual and reproductive health and rights of women,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President spent the first and second day of his working visit to the United States - for the 78th United Nations General Assembly - discussing sustainable development goals and investments in South Africa.

On Sunday, President Ramaphosa held a bilateral meeting with Professor Klaus Schwab, CEO of the World Economic Forum (WEF), to discuss South Africa’s participation at WEF and the progress the country is making on the reforms aimed at advancing inclusive economic growth.

The President also met with United States Congressman, Gregory Meeks. Both President Ramaphosa and Congressman Meeks acknowledged the need for greater cooperation between the US and South Africa in tackling global issues that are impacting the African continent, primarily, the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on Africa.

“Congressman Meeks welcomed the briefing on the conclusion of the investigation into the docking of the LadyR vessel in Simmons Town, South Africa, and expressed his commitment to contributing to the strengthening of US-Africa diplomatic and trade relations, and to attending the AGOA forum in South Africa later this year,” the Presidency said.

President Ramaphosa concluded his first day of engagements with a meeting with the United Nations Secretary General, Antonio Guterres.

The two leaders discussed developments related to the reform of the international financial architecture and other initiatives in support of the Sustainable Development Goals, as well as the reform of the United Nations Security Council. The Secretary General commended South Africa for its important role in advancing these efforts.

The President also delivered remarks at the Sustainable Development Goals Summit, where he joined the call to address the fundamental development challenges that have long characterised an unequal world.

“The President emphasised the need for targeted investment, technology transfer and capacity building support especially in key areas such as industralisation, infrastructure, agriculture, water, energy, education and health. The President further underscored the requirement for sustained financial support, including supportive trade policies from the international community,” the Presidency said.

Later on Monday, President Ramaphosa led the business roundtable discussions with the US Chamber of Commerce and the US-Africa Business Center.

President Ramaphosa used the occasion to position South Africa’s economic reform agenda, which is focused on expanding industrial capacity as an opportunity for more US investment that can leverage off the demonstrated manufacturing base of South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Tue, 09/19/2023 - 12:01

117 views

19 September 2023

National Transmission Company can now access “down to business” – Gordhan

Location: News

National Transmission Company can now get "down to business" - Gordhan

Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan has welcomed the National Energy Regulator of South Africa’s (NERSA) decision to approve the trading and import/export license applications by the National Transmission Company of South Africa (NTCSA).

The NTCSA is wholly owned by Eskom as the state-owned company is being restructured into the generation, transmission and distribution subsidiaries.

“This is great news for the people of South Africa. We now have in place all the critical elements for creating a more dynamic, a more responsive and a competitive electricity industry.

“The granting of these licences means that the National Transmission Company of South Africa is ready to get down to business and bring a much-needed overhaul of our electricity industry. This is a significant milestone as it also paves the way for the procurement of power from across the region,” Gordhan said.

The department explained that NTCSA applied for trading license in order to be able to to buy and sell electricity from power stations and independent power producers.

“The terms of the NTCSA’s trading licence will be five years as a transitional arrangement to allow for transition from the exclusive trading arrangement and incorporation of changes that may emanate from the ERA amendment and price review processes.

“The licence gives it authorisation to conduct import and export of electricity activities throughout the Southern African Development Community (SADC) using the NTCSA transmission network and the transmission systems of other SADC member countries.

“The NTCSA will operate the transmission system and perform the following key integrated roles to ensure the integrity of the interconnected power system (IPS): Transmission Network Service Provider (TNSP); System Operator (SO); Transmission System Planner (TSP) and Grid Code Secretariat,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

He made these remarks on Sunday as he reflected on the recently held National School Sport Indaba, which gathered sport leaders and administrators, representatives in education, international experts, government officials, former players, and activists in the sport sector under the theme: 'Towards an integrated and united school sport system'.

The Minister said the National School Sport Indaba gave impetus to the establishment of a blueprint for school sport in South Africa.

“The indaba has set the path forward for government, the sport and education sectors, and commercial, community and civil society partners to work together towards building a sustainable national school sport programme,” he said.

The indaba focused on a new theory of change, realising the need to resolve all obstacles that are in the way of an inclusive, accessible and quality school sport system in the country.

The National School Sport Indaba came to the following resolutions:

Policy: To give effect to the collaboration agreement between the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and the Department of Basic Education through robust implementation, formal plans and monitoring of the agreement through formal practices.
Resources: To advocate for the building of school-based sports facilities that are aligned to the broader community spatial design, to optimise the use of currently available school facilities, and encourage private public partnerships through a suitable model, which is to be investigated.
Development pathway: Focus on getting children playing regularly. School sport must be educator-driven and build capacity across all role-players in the ecosystem through formal training programmes. Physical education should be introduced as a stand-alone subject.
Stakeholder relationships and structures: A national macro body for school sport, supported by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the Department of Basic Education, and the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc), should be established.
Governance and transformation: Regulate the integration of the country’s fragmented school sport system.

- SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 09/18/2023 - 09:29

425 views

18 September 2023

SA stories are cultural endowments for future generations

Location: News

SA stories are cultural endowments for future generations

South African stories are cultural endowments for the benefit of future generations and are integral to the ongoing task of forging national unity, inculcating national pride and promoting respect for diversity.

“There are so many stories to be told, both of the past and the present,” President Ramaphosa said in his weekly newsletter today.

President Ramaphosa said one part of the country’s story that has not been fully told is that of peaceful transition to democracy.

“It is a complex story with many different perspectives and competing narratives,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said one of the most remarkable aspects of the South African society today is the “commitment to maintain peace among ourselves and our neighbours, and preventing tribalism and ethnic chauvinism from sowing discord between us”.

“Even when acts of racism occur, these provocations are rejected by South Africans, who won’t let them be used to exacerbate tensions in communities.

“This eternal vigilance is born of bitter experience that has its roots in the political violence of the 1980s and early 1990s, and how South Africans worked together to overcome differences, pull our country back from the brink and achieve peace.

“As we revel in our cultural pride and celebrate our roots with art, dance, cuisine and music, we must remember that the struggle for peace and reconciliation is a vital part of our heritage. We remember that the children born into democracy are able to take pride in their heritage today because of the peaceful democratic transition, which produced a Constitution that guarantees rights and freedoms for all, including the right to express one’s language and culture,” President Ramaphosa said.

He said today artists and cultural workers are able to exercise their right to freedom of expression in how they chronicle both the past and the present without fear of censure, banning or imprisonment.

“These are the fruits of freedom, but also the fruits of peace. With so many countries and societies around the world today beset by conflict, we are fortunate that the project of national reconciliation is ongoing and has not been abandoned,” the President said.

He called on all creative practitioners to play a more prominent role in nation-building through work that highlights the uplifting, inspiring and enduring aspects of society and its history.

“Contributing to maintaining peace and to advancing reconciliation is our collective responsibility as South Africans. It is the greatest gift we can bestow on the generations to come,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said the success of the 'Shaka iLembe' production and many other local productions should encourage creative professionals to apply their talents to the production of more such work. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 09/18/2023 - 15:36

91 views

18 September 2023

SAWS issues weather alert for damaging waves

Location: News

SAWS issues weather alert for damaging waves

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a severe weather alert for damaging waves between Plettenberg Bay and Richards Bay on Monday.

“The damaging waves are expected to result in localised disruptions to beachfront activities, localised disruption of small harbours and/or ports, difficulty in navigation of vessels at sea, and small vessels being at risk of taking on water and capsizing,” SAWS said.

On Sunday, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) warned residents along the Western Cape's coastal areas to exercise caution, as a high spring tide was expected. It caused waves to wash over railings, washing into homes and sweeping cars away along the coast.

According to the NSRI, an elderly woman, 93, died after being swept off her feet in the Wilderness area of the Southern Cape. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 09/18/2023 - 10:05

419 views

18 September 2023

Kwikspace Achieves Level 1 B-BBEE Rating, Bolstering Commitment to Transformation

Location: MyPR

[Johannesburg, 7 September 2023] — Kwikspace, Africa’s foremost provider of modular buildings for rent or sale, is thrilled to announce its successful attainment of the Level 1 B-BBEE (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment) certification for the second consecutive year. This prestigious achievement reflects Kwikspace’s steadfast commitment to advancing South Africa’s transformation agenda. Recognising Exceptional Efforts Kwikspace …

18 September 2023

Mulaudzi And Mailula Win SA Senior Cross Country Titles In Gqeberha

Location: MyPR

Kabelo Mulaudzi and Karabo Mailula emerged triumphant to secure the most prestigious titles on offer, on a spectacular day of racing at the ASA Cross Country Championships held at Nelson Mandela University sports grounds in Gqeberha on Saturday. Competing in tough conditions, which included near gale-force winds, in-form athlete Mulaudzi delivered in style after turning …

18 September 2023

No identity document, no life

Location: News

Home Affairs in court over profound damage caused by its practice of “blocking” IDs

18 September 2023

You Could Be Drinking Water That Once Passed Through a Dinosaur – And Other Intelligent Facts

Location: MyPR

World Water Monitoring Day (WWMD) is celebrated on 18 September each year. The South African Department of Water and Sanitation, under the slogan; “Enhancing accountability and sustainability for every drop!” says that World Water Monitoring Day is an international education and outreach program that builds public awareness of the importance of protecting water resources around …

17 September 2023

Winners at the 2023 African Conservation Awards

Location: News

The 2023 African Conservation Awards, hosted by the Game Rangers' Association of Africa (GRAA) (https://www.GameRanger.org/) and sponsored by CNEI, took place on Saturday, September 16th, at the Southern African Wildlife College in Greater Kruger, South Africa.

This prestigious event honoured outstanding conservationists and showcased their exceptional contributions to protecting Africa's natural heritage.

Reflecting on the journey that led to this gathering, Dr. Larry Hansen, the visionary Founder of the African Conservation Awards said "13 years ago on a visit to The Kruger National Park there were three rhinos poached on the day I arrived. This shocking day led me to start the Rhino Conservation Awards 12 years ago together with Ms. Yu to honour and celebrate the brave conservation heroes that protect and do research on our wildlife.”

Every organisation and individual nominated for these awards has demonstrated exceptional determination to overcome formidable challenges. Often faced with daunting odds, they have showcased an unwavering commitment to their conservation missions. The African Conservation Awards serves as the vital stage where their exceptional efforts are rightfully acknowledged and celebrated.

“There are very few people who are willing to sacrifice to save wildlife,” adds Dr Hansen. “The expanded Awards have this year attracted nominations from 11 countries and incredible candidates. I wish to congratulate the winners and all of those nominated, they are TRUE HEROES and among the last protectors of the planet!"

The Winners for the 2023 African Conservation Awards are:

Best Field Ranger

Winner: Nkateko Letti Mzimba, Sergeant of Black Mambas Unit, Olifants West Nature Reserve, South Africa

Nkateko Letti Mzimba is a shining example of dedication and leadership in conservation. Her journey, beginning in 2014, reflects unwavering commitment and leadership that extends beyond routine patrols. Nkateko serves as a vigilant guardian of rhinos and other endangered species, diligently removing snares to protect wildlife. She also extends her caring hand to local communities, providing essential food and educational resources, and passionately educating the community's children about the importance of protecting nature.

1st Runner Up: Givemore Bako, Senior Ranger and Head Rhino Monitor, Savé Valley Conservancy, Zimbabwe

2nd Runner Up: Reginah Smith, Corporal of the Rhino Protection Unit, Pilanesberg Game Reserve, South Africa

Best Game Ranger

Winner: Amos Gwema, Principle Investigation and Security Officer, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, Zimbabwe

Amos Gwema is a dedicated wildlife protector in the Matebeleland region. His jurisdiction includes Hwange National Park, Zambezi National Park and Matopos National Park, which is renowned for its high rhino population.  Amos's efforts have made a significant impact, notably reducing elephant and rhino poaching rates while achieving an impressive 95% conviction rate in Hwange and Bulawayo Magistrate courts. He also plays a crucial role in training rangers in wildlife law enforcement and intelligence techniques. Beyond his official duties, Amos engages in community projects, such as school programs and initiatives to encourage the safe surrender of wild animals, fostering a harmonious relationship between local communities and the natural world.

1st Runner Up: Petronella Chigumbura, Deputy Ranger Supervisor, Akashinga, Zimbabwe

2nd Runner Up: Orlat Ndlovu, Head of Ranger Services, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, South Africa

Best Conservation Team

Winner: Wildlife Action Group, Thuma Forest Reserve and the Dedza Salima Escarpment Forest Reserve, Malawi

Wildlife Action Group (WAG), a Malawian non-profit conservation NGO, was created in 1996 in response to severe illegal commercial deforestation and poaching of wildlife in Thuma Forest. WAG's tireless efforts have restored ecological balance, ensuring the well-being of wildlife and the people of Malawi. They've played a vital role in reviving wildlife populations, preventing elephant poaching for five years, restoring 7,000+ hectares of degraded forest, reducing human-wildlife conflicts, and educating local schools about conservation.

1st Runner Up: Majete Wildlife Reserve, Malawi

2nd Runner Up: Zinave National Park, Mozambique

Best Conservation Supporter

Winner: Rhino Man, South Africa

Rhino Man, with their impactful 8-year film production, sheds light on the courageous South African rangers who risk everything to protect rhinos from extinction. This documentary honours these unsung heroes, showcasing their relentless dedication and the rigorous selection process they undergo. The film pays tribute to their late friend and training partner, Martin Mthembu, while also remembering the late and great Anton Mzimba, who dedicated his life to safeguarding the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. Rhino Man's work is a testament to the invaluable role of rangers in protecting our precious natural world.

1st Runner Up: Joseph Serugo Ssalongo, Honorary Wildlife Officer, Uganda

2nd Runner Up: African Pangolin Working Group, South Africa

In a heartfelt video message, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, the esteemed Patron of the African Conservation Awards, paid tribute to the dedicated conservation heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice. He honoured the memory of the 68 rangers who tragically lost their lives while safeguarding our natural heritage in the past 12 months. Additionally, Prince Albert extended his heartfelt tribute to the remarkable "633 African rangers killed in the fight for the preservation of our wilderness since 2011." His words resonated with deep respect for the thousands of individuals who daily face enormous risks, even putting their lives on the line, to protect the precious biodiversity, nature, and our planet, of which they are the unwavering and loyal stewards.

"Congratulations to all winners, runner ups and nominees of the 2023 African Conservation Awards! Your unwavering commitment to the conservation of our wildlife is both commendable and deeply inspiring. I wish to emphasize the pivotal role you each play in safeguarding our continent's invaluable natural resources. Your dedication to conservation is instrumental in shaping a brighter and more sustainable future for Africa. It is an honour and privilege for the Game Rangers' Association of Africa to recognise your remarkable achievements. Well done!" - Andrew Campbell, CEO, Game Rangers Association of Africa

The 2023 African Conservation Awards celebrated these exceptional individuals and organisations for their unwavering commitment to preserving Africa's natural heritage. They inspire us all to work toward a sustainable and harmonious future for our continent and its incredible wildlife.

In addition to the awards ceremony, the morning of the event witnessed the Game Rangers Association of Africa hosting the South Africa Hub Regional Challenge of the Wildlife Ranger Challenge. This unique sporting event took place at the South African Wildlife College, where rangers and their supporters united to run a challenging 21 kilometers in solidarity with wildlife rangers across Africa.

The primary objective of this initiative is to raise crucial funds in support of the courageous men and women on the front lines of Africa's protected areas. Beyond fundraising, the event also serves as a powerful platform to increase awareness of the ever-expanding and diverse roles that wildlife rangers undertake. These dedicated individuals are often operating with increasingly stretched resources, making their tireless efforts even more remarkable.

The African Conservation awards are hosted annually by the Game Rangers' Association of Africa (GRAA) and are made possible with the generous support of sponsors Chinese New Enterprise Investment (CNEI) and are endorsed by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment. His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, who is committed to the protection of endangered species through the support of his Foundation, is the Patron of the African Conservation Awards.

For more information about the African Conservation Awards, please visit ConservationAwards.Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Game Rangers Association of Africa.

Media Contact:
Game Rangers Association of Africa
Louise De Bruin
Email: info@gameranger.org

Love Africa Marketing
Casey Pratt
Email: casey@loveafricamarketing.com

Information:

African Conservation Awards: https://www.ConservationAwards.Africa
Game Rangers Association of Africa: https://www.GameRanger.org/
Love Africa Marketing: https://www.LoveAfricaMarketing.com/
Sponsors for the event: CNEI

GRAA background:
The Game Rangers' Association of Africa (GRAA) is a non-profit organisation, founded in 1970 which provides support, networks and representation for rangers across Africa. The GRAA is a proud member of the International Ranger Federation (IRF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) where it serves as the voice of the African ranger.

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Game Rangers Association of Africa

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17 September 2023

FPB CEO appointed as Vice Chair of Global Online Safety Regulators Network

Location: News

FPB CEO appointed as Vice Chair of Global Online Safety Regulators Network

Film and Publication Board (FPB) Chief Executive Officer, Dr Mashilo Boloka, has been appointed as Vice Chairperson of the Global Online Safety Regulators Network (GORSN).

Boloka’s appointment as Vice Chairperson, was made by the Global Online Safety Network during a meeting hosted by the UK’s Communications Regulator, the Office of Communications (OFCOM) in London.

His one-year term will run until 2024.

Welcoming the new leadership, outgoing Chairperson and eSafety Commissioner’s Julie Inman-Grant, said they are happy to hand over the reins to OFCOM under the capable stewardship of Gill Whitehead.

“The 2024 Vice Chair will be the incredibly energetic Mashilo Boloka, CEO of the South African Film and Publication Board. We will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder in working together to work towards creating a safer, more positive online world,” Inman-Grant said.

Boloka’s appointment follows the FPB’s acceptance as a member of the GORSN earlier in July 2023.

The network was established in November 2022 to promote online safety and share information and good practice around online regulation.

Dr Boloka said the network represents a collaborative initiative to fight the borderless online harms, pursue harmonisation to avoid fragmentation of online safety legislation and coordinated online safety measures.

“As the Film and Publication Board of South Africa, we are excited to be a member of this Network. As the only representative on the African continent, we will ensure that voice of other regulators on the continent and the other developing worlds is heard.

“We will persuade other regulators on the continent to join the Network so that they can seize the opportunities it provides, information sharing on experiences and best practices so that we can together promote a safer online environment and fight online harms wherever it exists,” Boloka said.

During the London meeting, the Network discussed the need to promote regulatory coherence and underscored the importance of collaboration on shared issues, including industry engagement and new and emerging technology.

It also agreed on creation of a technology and public education working group. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Sun, 09/17/2023 - 09:24

437 views

17 September 2023

GroundUp reporters win prestigious journalism award

Location: News

Marecia Damons and Daniel Steyn win 2023 Nat Nakasa Award for Thabo Bester prison escape story