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Introduction EvoGames is not just a platform; it’s a haven for tech enthusiasts and gamers alike. With a plethora of brands ranging from tech giants to emerging names in the gaming industry, EvoGames offers something for everyone. The importance of brand selection in tech and gaming goes beyond mere preference; it’s about quality, innovation, and …
Cape Town, August, 14th, 2023: NJR Steel Cape Town announces that it is now offering the full range of De-Fence security fencing, providing unique coastal environment benefits. De-fence is clear-visibility perimeter fencing that has been optimally manufactured with features making it ideal for South African coastal climates. “De-fence panels are made from high-strength steel wires, with a …
Ramokgopa optimistic about the future as Eskom generation capacity improves
Eskom has recorded a significant improvement with its energy generation moving from an average of 28 000 megawatts (MW) to close to 29 000 MW in the past week, Electricity Minister, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, announced on Sunday.
“There’s a considerable improvement on the generation side, you can see that we’re beginning to normalise available capacity to be upward of 29 000 MW,” he said.
He also took the time to thank the leadership of Eskom, starting with the Board led by Mpho Makwana, followed by the Acting Eskom CEO Calib Cassim, and the entity’s Head of Generation Bheki Nxumalo and his team.
According to the Minister, from 7 to 11 August, Eskom had a generation capacity of 28 932 MW and exceeded 29 000 MW on two occasions.
Ramokgopa was updating the media on the progress made regarding the one-year implementation of the Energy Action Plan (EAP) and provided a weekly generation outlook.
“During winter, demand did surge and of course, the instrument that the system operator has to balance the grid was to ensure we intensify the stages of load shedding.
“The expectation now is that we’re entering a less severe period of cold and demand is going to tamper down.”
As the team improves generation capacity, they are also working to ensure the long-term sustainability of the units to become more reliable by ramping up planned outages.
“Remember when we went into the winter period, the deliberate act to take out the units for service was going to be reduced so that we have many units as possible producing the megawatts.”
He also told the media that Eskom breached the 60% energy availability factor (EAF) as the demand comes down.
“However, for long-term sustainability, it’s important to take out these units as at when we deem it necessary because when these units come back they sustain levels of performance.”
On unplanned capacity loss factor (UCLF), he said it was also decreasing as well.
By definition, UCLF is the ratio between the unavailable energy of the units that are out on unplanned outages over a period compared to the total net installed capacity of all units over the same period.
According to the Minister, UCLF is still at an average of 15 000 MW from 18 000 MW in previous weeks, with plans to keep it under 14 000 MW.
“An area that continues to be at albatross is on the partial load losses these are the units that are performing at the right levels although they are giving us the megawatts, are not at the level that is desired, which is currently sitting at 6 226 MW.”
He assured the citizens that the state-owned entity that these were receiving attention.
“What we’re going to do and not compromise on is the philosophy of maintenance plan so you’re able to guarantee the performance of these units going into the future.”
He noted the underperforming units were due to historic reasons, including a lack of investment in maintenance.
“I think it’s important that we’re transparent in our conversations and take everyone along in relation to the progress or lack of progress could be making against the target we set ourselves.”
The Minister acknowledged that load shedding is causing “untold” devastation to the South African economy.
“There are people out of jobs and there are many companies that folded and finding it difficult to continue to produce. Retailers have to spend an upfront capital cost to meet the requirements associated with buying generators and operational costs for purposes of keeping the cold chain and their operations going.
“Small businesses in the townships are finding it difficult to continue and investors can’t find a legitimate reason to invest in the South African economy and therefore, there’s an opportunity cost associated with load shedding.”
However, Ramokgopa stressed that Eskom is working around the clock to turn this around by improving underperforming power stations and addressing breakdown issues.
“I’m very optimistic about the future. We set the bar very high. We’re going to improve this energy availability factor.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 08/13/2023 - 13:32
98 IDs, 105 bank cards, birth certificate found in F State home
The South African Police Service (SAPS) is calling on the community members who have lost ID books to report to the police station after 98 were found in a home in Selosesha, Free State, along with 100 bank cards.
This is after the Selosesha Public Order Policing members received intelligence-led information on Friday, 11 August 2023 at about 21:30.
“Members followed the information and it took the team to a house in Zone 4, Selosesha.”
The members then met a 28-year-old suspect who, upon searching his room, police found 42 smart card IDs, one Lesotho passport, 55 South African-issued ID books, 105 bank cards from different banks and a birth certificate.
“Investigations are underway to establish the reason for him having personal documents from different people.”
The suspect, the police said, has been arrested for unlawfully being in possession of identification documents and for contravening the Immigration Act.
“Police are pleading with anyone who might have lost or submitted his ID to the 28-year-old to go to Selosesha Police Station so they can retrieve their documents.”
The 28-year-old is expected to appear in the Thaba Nchu Magistrate Court soon. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 08/13/2023 - 11:30
Nestled within the heart of Johannesburg, South Africa, Soweto stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of its people and their unwavering resistance against apartheid. What was once a township marked by adversity has now transformed into a captivating destination that draws tourists from around the world. The allure of Soweto lies not only …
Tourism Minister welcomes end of Cape Town taxi strike
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has welcomed the agreement reached by the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco), the Western Cape government and the City of Cape Town to end the devastating taxi strike.
“On behalf of the tourism sector, I wish to express our collective relief that the taxi strike in Cape Town has been called off,” she said on Friday, a day after the stay away was called off immediately.
The strike also dealt a heavy blow to many industries and has severely impacted the lives of residents in Cape Town with children not being able to get to school, people not being able to get to places of work or access other essential services like hospitals and clinics.
Meanwhile, almost a dozen of Golden Arrow buses were torched due to arson attacks since the taxi strike that started on 3 August 2023.
“Visitors to South Africa have also been impacted by the strike and the violence, which affected residents and visitors, is strongly condemned.”
De Lille said she hopes that all parties do all they can to implement the agreement peacefully with no further disruptions, damage to infrastructure and attacks on people.
“The loss of human life during the strike is deeply tragic and we convey our deepest condolences to all families and friends who lost loved ones during the taxi strike violence.
“We sincerely hope that such devastating acts are never repeated again and that all organisations together with government, will work to resolve disputes amicably and within the framework of the law.”
The Minister said the violence and attacks on human lives are unacceptable and uncalled for in the tourism sector.
“We urge all parties to continue to engage peacefully and collaboratively to see progress and fairness for all.”
As a society, she said it was important to acknowledge the important role that all sectors play in the country, including the taxi industry.
“But we must all obey the rule of law and show respect for others as no one is above the law. We hope that all aspects of life, work and travel can now continue as we all work together to grow our economy and create more jobs for our people.”
Meanwhile, she conveyed her heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the tourist who was killed in this incident in Nyanga, Cape Town last week in an incident that is believed to be related to the taxi strike.
“I plead with law enforcement agencies to find the perpetrators of this violent crime as soon as possible.”
According to the reports, the tourist British tourist has been identified as Kar Hao Teoh, 40, who was shot from close range after taking a wrong turn into Nyanga as he drove from Cape Town International Airport with his wife and two-year-old son.
The BBC said Teoh was a consultant trauma and orthopaedic surgeon at Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow, Essex. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 08/13/2023 - 08:08
Here are facts on how big the industry is, how much drivers make, and the taxi industry’s role in crime
Introduction An inverter is a crucial device that converts direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC), enabling the use of household appliances and systems. The importance of choosing the right size inverter for a house cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts the efficiency, functionality, and longevity of the electrical system. This article provides an …
Introduction In the realm of precious metals, gold has long held an allure that transcends time and borders. Among the glinting treasures of the gold market, the Krugerrand stands as a stalwart presence, renowned not only for its intrinsic value but also for the mystique that surrounds its pricing. While it’s a common assumption that …
Torture and assault by prison wardens are among the allegations made by prisoners
Introduction: Embarking on a journey into the wild heart of Africa’s breathtaking landscapes is a dream for many travellers. For observant Jewish adventurers, however, there’s an additional layer of consideration – the need for a kosher travel experience. The allure of a safari may be universal, but ensuring that it aligns with kosher dietary laws …
Johannesburg, August, Friday 2023: Active Transport – The Ultimate Solution for Seamless and Stress-Free Moves Johannesburg – For over 30 years, Active Transport Removal Services has been setting the gold standard in professional furniture moving, making relocations in Johannesburg, Gauteng, and throughout South Africa hassle-free and efficient. With our expanding presence and dedication, we stand …
Iranian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hossein Amirabdollahian, who is in Pretoria for the 15th meeting of the Joint Commission of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of South Africa, met with President Ramaphosa of South Africa on Thursday afternoon.
The Iranian Foreign Minister expressed satisfaction with the strong and expanding relations between the two countries and the successful outcome of the 15th meeting of the Joint Economic Cooperation Commission. He emphasized the importance of the constructive agreements reached across different sectors and the preparation of multiple cooperation documents.
Amirabdollahian also announced the Islamic Republic of Iran's acceptance of the invitation to participate in the BRICS summit. President Raisi of Iran will attend the meeting.
He highlighted Iran's vital role in West Asia and South Africa's influence in the African continent, emphasizing the potential for collaboration between Tehran and Pretoria in various fields given their capacities. The top Iranian diplomat warmly welcomed the development of cooperation between the two nations.
President Ramaphosa, in turn, conveyed his greetings to the Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and expressed satisfaction with his acceptance of the invitation to attend the BRICS summit and his upcoming official visit to South Africa in the fall. He described President Raisi's visit as important and stressed the significance of his Iranian counterpart's presence at the BRICS summit and South Africa's keen interest in Iran's participation in the event.
Ramaphosa noted that the BRICS summit holds significant global attention and South Africa fully supports Iran's inclusion as a friendly nation. He stated, "We are pleased with the agreements reached at the joint commission meeting and we are ready to implement them."
Ramaphosa expressed hope that during the upcoming official visit of the Iranian President, several cooperation documents would be signed, leading to the effective implementation of bilateral cooperation agreements across various fields.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Islamic Republic of Iran.
The Surfing South Africa Board has ratified the team that will represent South Africa at the 2023 International Surfing Association World Junior Surfing Championships in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from November 24th to December 3rd, 2023. FULL STORY HERE Video: Cape St Francis Surfer Rory Dace selected to compete in the SA Junior Team For …
5 Benefits of the Ancient Brazilian Berry The human longing for sustained energy and the ability to tackle life’s challenges with enthusiasm has woven its way throughout history. From ancient civilizations seeking vitality through herbal concoctions and continuing to modern times with the desire for balanced lifestyles that promote wellness, the pursuit of energy has …
Mayor describes what has been agreed to
SA ready to host BRICS Summit
It's all systems go for the 15th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Summit, which will be held in Johannesburg later this month.
Taking place from 22 to 24 August, government has indicated that it has concluded the BRICS outreach programmes for various sectors and communities.
“Cabinet was apprised that it is all systems go in terms of South Africa’s readiness to host the 15th BRICS Summit. The last of the BRICS Ministerial Meetings – the BRICS Ministers of Agriculture Meeting – is currently underway, while the Ministerial Meetings of Foreign Affairs, Security, Trade, Industry, Education, Science, Labour, Communications, Health, and Urbanisation Forum have concluded their reports for the Leaders’ Summit.
“These engagements provided governments, organisations, experts and academics from the BRICS nations an opportunity to discuss issues of mutual interest that will enable informed decision-making during the BRICS Summit,” Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said on Thursday.
She was addressing a media briefing in Pretoria on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Tuesday.
Russia-Africa Summit
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa and Russian President Vladimir Putin recently held a bilateral meeting and discussed opportunities to increase trade between the two countries, and for the Russian Federation to increase investments in South Africa.
This meeting took place during the Second Russia-Africa Summit in St. Petersburg, Russian Federation, on 27 and 28 July 2023. Ramaphosa was amongst other African leaders who attended the summit.
“This summit adopted the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum Action Plan, which focuses on strengthening cooperation in areas of politics and security, economics, humanitarian matters, and interests of mutual benefit and prosperity.
“On the sidelines of the summit, African Heads of State and Government, who are part of the African Peace Initiative on the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, held follow-up talks with President Putin on the previously discussed confidence-building measures that will create conditions for a negotiated settlement to ending the war,” Ntshavheni said.
Security in Niger
Cabinet also has noted the impact the security situation in Niger is having on air travel between South Africa/Southern Africa and Western Europe, with negative implications for business and individuals alike and the airline industry, which is just starting to recover from the devastating ravages of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
“Cabinet reiterated government’s condemnation of the coup in Niger and the call for the speedy restoration of a democratic order, and also noted the initiative to restore normality under the Economic Community of West African States,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 08/10/2023 - 11:47
SA universities at risk of losing 10% of academics as they near retirement
Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, has cast the spotlight on investing in young scholars, as a number of academics in public universities are nearing retirement.
Citing the 2023 Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Indicators Report, Nzimande noted that the proportion of staff over the age of 60 increased from 7.3% in 2011 to 10.4% in 2020.
“This trend implies that public universities will lose about 10% of permanent staff with doctoral qualifications due to retirement within the next five years,” he said on Thursday.
The report found that the percentage of staff aged 20 to 29 declined from 7.9% in 2011 to 5.8% in 2020.
“Although there is an increase in the proportion of staff aged 30 to 39, this increase is lower than that of staff aged over 60. Therefore, there is a need to intensify support to young academic staff through instruments such as the New Generation of Academics Programme,” Nzimande said.
He was speaking at the launch of the annual STI Report in Pretoria.
Commissioned by the National Advisory Council on Innovation (NACI), the report examines investment in research, development and innovation, STI human resources, innovation in manufacturing, digital competitiveness, and the distribution of research and development (R&D) in provinces.
NACI is a leading advisory body to government on science, technology and innovation, and provides evidence-based advice to the Minister.
Because of the department’s various programmes aimed at developing future generations of academics and building staff capacity, Nzimande said the gender gap among academic employees is gradually closing.
“The proportions of male and female researchers are approaching parity,” the Minister said.
However, he noted that the proportion of staff in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields has remained consistent over time.
“This finding is, on reflection, not surprising.
“South African academics, once appointed on a permanent basis, cannot easily be replaced. Given that the typical academic career is around 40 years, universities have often been compared to large tankers, which change course slowly, and with difficulty.”
For the percentage of staff in the STEM fields to increase in relation to non-STEM employees, the Minister believes it would require many universities to change their organisational design, creating more medical schools, engineering faculties, and larger science faculties.
He told delegates that the establishment of the new University of Science and Technology in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, is an example of the type of intervention that is required.
“The goal of increasing the numbers of graduates in science, engineering and technology (SET) has been stated and repeated in multiple national policy documents since 1994.
“Despite various initiatives over the years to increase the output of SET graduates, the percentage of SET graduates, as a proportion of all graduates, has remained unchanged over the past 12 years.”
On a positive note, indicators show some growth in black doctoral graduates in STEM fields, constituting an increase of about one-third of all doctoral graduates in 2010 to 44% in 2020.
Nzimande said the university would play a leading role in enhancing the growth of critical skills in the STEM fields needed to create jobs, boost the economy, and improve the lives of citizens.
“One manifestation of the multiple crises of social reproduction is that of gender-based violence and the subordinate position of women in society generally.
“The interrelated crises of unemployment, poverty, inequality, and social reproduction also manifest in high incidents of criminality and different forms of violence afflicting many of our communities.”
South African scientists, Nzimande said, have increased their research collaborations with other countries.
He noted that about 20% of the country’s population was counted as “extremely poor” in 2021.
Nzimande is of the view that the STI, with the country’s policy agenda, will require developing solutions to these socio-economic challenges.
“I can assure you today that through our new ten-year plan for STI, we will respond to these challenges.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/10/2023 - 12:30
Introduction A will is a legal document that outlines how an individual’s assets should be distributed after their death. It is a crucial instrument that ensures a person’s wishes are respected and their loved ones are provided for. In South Africa, as in many other jurisdictions, a will must meet certain requirements to be considered …
]FAME Week Africa, built by RX Africa, the continent’s premier platform for celebrating African talent, is proud to announce the highly anticipated Women in Entertainment Breakfast on 6 September as part of the esteemed FAME Week Africa 2023. This ground-breaking event, powered by EarCandy Dubbing and the Cape Town International Conventions Centre (CTICC) will shine …
The African filmmaking community is abuzz with anticipation as the FAME Film Shorts Festival, a prestigious addition to FAME Week Africa 2023, built by RX Africa, takes centre stage. This eagerly awaited event is dedicated to celebrating the innovation, creativity, and exceptional talent of the finest independent filmmakers from across the continent. Our aim is …
Africa CDC donates vaccine manufacturing equipment to SAHPRA
The Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) on Thursday officially handed over equipment worth US $750 000 (R14 083 950) to the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), the first recipient in the continent.
According to a joint statement, the tools will support SAHPRA with its regulatory functions relating to vaccine manufacturing.
Africa CDC Director-General, Dr Jean Kaseya, and SAHPRA CEO, Dr Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela, attended the ceremony in Pretoria.
The African Union (AU) Heads of State established the Partnerships for African Vaccine Manufacturing (PAVM), under the Africa CDC launched in 2021 and its Framework for Action in 2022.
The PAVM aims to steer a bold goal that will enable the African vaccine manufacturing industry to develop, produce and sustainably increase supply, currently sitting at less than 1%.
It is also looking to prop up the National Regulatory Authorities (NRAs) to ensure safe and quality vaccines.
The Africa CDC is working with four other NRAs to boost their capacities to achieve the ambitious goal of manufacturing 60% of vaccine needs on the continent by 2040.
“This donation is a proverbial breath of fresh air for SAHPRA and more importantly, the African continent. This stellar initiative will provide much-needed impetus for SAHPRA to take bold steps to capacitate the authority and the continent in paving the way for renewed vigour and innovation on the continent,” said Semete-Makokotlela.
Meanwhile, Kaseya said Africa CDC’s mission of safeguarding Africa’s health from disease threats such as pandemics would require viable and sustainable manufacturing of health products and technologies on the continent.
“To achieve this noble mission, NRA are our key partners. Today’s ceremony marks an important step in our commitment to support African manufacturing to ensure safe and effective vaccines are produced on the continent,” he said.
The Africa CDC worked with the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) to set priorities such as regulatory process harmonisation, engaging with and strengthening NRAs directly, supporting and strengthening the Regional Centres of Regulatory Excellence (RCORE) platform to facilitate vaccine regulatory oversight, as manufacturing of health products expands in Africa.
Africa CDC is a continental autonomous public health agency of the African Union.
It supports member States in their efforts to strengthen health systems and improve surveillance, emergency response, prevention and control of diseases. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/10/2023 - 14:31
Introduction Hair growth is a concern that resonates with many individuals, both men and women. Whether it’s thinning hair, baldness, or simply the desire for a fuller mane, the quest for effective hair growth solutions is a common pursuit. In South Africa, the market is flooded with various products claiming to promote hair growth. This …
NOVACOM Summits (https://NOVACOMSummits.com) is proud to announce its first-ever African edition of the Digital Transformation Strategy Summit, an exclusive networking and business opportunity for Africa's telecommunications leaders. This prestigious event is set to take place at the esteemed Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa in Cape Town, South Africa, from 5th to 7th September.
The summit intends to foster strategic relationships among executive decision-makers from leading African telecommunications companies and solution providers. This event will be held in a five-star, world-class setting in the Cape Winelands.
The digital transformation journey in Africa has gained immense momentum and presents a remarkable setting to connect people, representing a US$100 billion opportunity for the continent. NOVACOM Summits, with its extensive experience and customer base in the industry, has recognised the potential and value in this transformation and has taken the initiative to create a platform for industry leaders to connect, collaborate, and drive this crucial change.
We are delighted to announce Juliet Ehimuan as the Summit's keynote speaker. Renowned for her impactful contributions during her 12-year tenure as the Director of Google West Africa, Juliet played a pivotal role in introducing Google products, such as Google Maps and YouTube, to the region, revolutionising digital access. Additionally, she was instrumental in the success of the Equiano subsea fibre capacity cable project along the West Coast of Africa, a landmark digital infrastructure endeavour.
With her extensive experience and influence in the African telecom landscape, Juliet is now actively involved in guiding enterprises and telcos on their digital transformation journeys, perfectly aligning with NOVACOM's vision and purpose.
South African born and raised, Founder of NOVACOM Summits, Ryan Anderson says: "We are thrilled to host the inaugural African edition of the Digital Transformation Strategy Summit, bringing together the brightest minds and visionaries in the telecom industry. This gathering's core ambition is to facilitate digital transformation in Africa through the unique opportunity to connect the continent's leading telcos with innovative solutions providers, so we can connect the next 1 billion people. We are honoured to have Juliet Ehimuan as our keynote speaker, who embodies the spirit of innovation and progress that drives our industry forward.”
NOVACOM Summits will host a range of activities during the event, including pre-qualified one-on-one business meetings, in-person networking opportunities, and peer-led round table discussions. Thought-provoking workshops covering a variety of topics, from Building resilience during a power crisis and to how to monetise 5G, to raising cell towers in space, will enrich the debate around the continent's most ambitious industry projects. Our goal is to foster meaningful connections and collaborations among attendees while connecting the course for the telecom industry's future in Africa.
To request an invite to join us at the Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa in Cape Town for a transformative experience that will shape the future of connection in Africa, please email invite@novacomsummits.com.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of NOVACOM Summits.
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About NOVA SUMMITS Limited:
NOVA SUMMITS LIMITED is the organiser of the NOVACOM Africa - Digital Transformation Strategy Summit series. These exclusive invite-only telecom specific events for Sub-Saharan industry leaders bring together executive level decision makers, business leaders and policy makers with industry solution providers in first class luxury settings. Our belief is that connection is paramount to the digital transformation journey, and these summits provide a collaborative platform to accelerate this process. For more information on NOVA SUMMITS Limited and the FUTURE OF CONNECTION visit: https://NOVACOMSummits.com