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The inaugural Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K is set to see some incredible racing on Sunday 27 August 2023 as the next generation of athletes, Nicholas Seoposengwe and Kabelo Seboko, both running in the colours of Boxer Athletics Club, enter the fray. Nicholas proved that he should not be underestimated when he claimed victory …
The former Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, has called on stakeholders within the South African legislative sector to do what they can and focus on resolving the many challenges facing South Africa. Dr Mlambo-Ngcuka was speaking at the opening of the 2023 Legislative Sector Development Seminar at the Sun City Convention Centre in North West Province.
The theme of the seminar is “Building a capable and strong legislative sector that realises open, responsive and accountable government and aims to reflect on progress made towards achieving the goals of developing an effective oversight tool as well as putting measures in place for an effective and efficient 7th parliamentary term”.
This capacity-building initiative is held every two years to facilitate interaction and an exchange of ideas within the legislative sector. This conference is also significant as it is the first one since the Covid-19 pandemic. Best practice models will be analysed to see how Parliament and the nine provincial legislatures can better respond to the challenges currently facing South Africa.
“We have to be frank that some things are not going well but this too shall pass. What I ask is that you hold your peace, do your work in your area of responsibility and focus on having a legislative sector that has empathy and fairness in the implementation of its work,” Dr Mlambo Ngcuka said.
The former Deputy President also suggested that if the sector is to achieve its intended objectives, it must adopt a SMART system approach. “We must be specific and clear on what we want to achieve, have tools to measure the impact of the laws we make. The goals we make must be achievable so that we don't sell false dreams to the people. Also, the work of legislatures must be relevant to the challenges faced by many South Africans. We should not just be busy for appearance. And, finally, the work of legislatures must be timebound so that we are able to assess if we are reaching our targets,” Dr Mlambo-Ngcuka suggested.
She also highlighted the importance of a strong skills base if the sector is to achieve its goals. “A strong legislature requires critical skills that will enhance the work it does. Some of the skills required include strong legislation drafting skills, policy analysis and skilled people that will enhance the constitutional imperative of public consultation. These skills are also important in that where there is a gap in the quality of public representatives, they will be able to intervene and assist,” Dr Mlambo-Ngcuka emphasised.
In closing, the former Deputy President suggested that the adoption of this smart framework will result in a legislative sector that is able to utilise the tool of oversight effectively to overcome many of the social ills facing the country.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
The Girls Trip, Moments to melt into AERO’s #momentstomeltinto campaign is championing sisterhood this Women’s Month Sisterhood – there is nothing quite like it. You know, your group of friends who would go to war for you. The ones who are there for you through the thick and thin of life. A bond like no …
SA Navy prioritises gender mainstreaming
While significant strides have been made to ensure that women occupy leadership positions in the South African Navy, much more must be done to mainstream gender, says South African Navy Deputy Chief Navy, Rear Admiral Bubele Mhlana.
“Looking back at 2007 where the overall percentage of women in the SA Navy was 17%, we have managed to increase the percentage to 29% of women in decision making positions and 33% at entry level,” Mhlana said on Monday in Cape Town.
He made these remarks while addressing young women who had an opportunity to visit the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Military Naval Base in Simon’s Town.
In an effort to demonstrate the opportunities for women in the sector, learners from various schools toured a shipyard at the Military Naval Base as part of Women’s Month activities that showcased the role of women in the maritime sector.
This year’s Women’s Month is celebrated under the theme, 'Accelerating Socio-Economic Opportunities for Women’s Empowerment'. The theme highlights the need to ensure that all women have access to participate equally in all areas of human endeavor.
“Significant strides have been made at leadership level, we cannot become complacent. Much more must be done to mainstream gender. I emphasise that the maritime security domain presents limitless opportunities for young women who have a significant role in unlocking the potential of our blue economy.
“Gender mainstreaming should not be seen as an aspiration, it should be seen as an imperative. It is time for women to take their rightful place to exploit every opportunity and participate meaningfully in exploring the potential of the blue economy,” Mhlana said.
He said harnessing the potential of young people is vital to unlocking and exploiting the vast ocean economy potential.
“The South African navy has a key role to play in Operation Phakisa, most particular in terms of maritime enforcement of good order of governance and seas. Indeed Operation Phakisa Economic Lab features a number of streams including marine protection and governance where the South African Navy plays a meaningful role through operations and the patrols it conducts at sea,” Mhlana said.
Government launched Operation Phakisa in 2014 with the ultimate goal of boosting economic growth and create jobs. This initiative focuses on unlocking the economic potential of South Africa's oceans, which could contribute up to R177 billion to the GDP by 2033 and between 800 000 and one million direct jobs.
South Africa has a coastline that spans about 2 800 kilometers from Namibia to Mozambique.
“Our hydrography domain plays an equally significant role in ensuring safe efficient and sustainable conduct of every human activity in or under the sea including safe passage of shipping,” Mhlana said.
With the full integration of women in all spheres within the South African Navy, 44-year-old Nicolette Le Roux occupies the position of a Hydrographic Survey Officer.
Hydrography is the science that measures and describes the physical features of the navigable portion of the Earth's surface and adjoining coastal areas.
“Hydrographic survey entails the collection of hydrographic data, processing of hydrographic data and rendering of products. As hydrographic data analysts, we measure the depth of the ocean using various equipment like echo sounders, multi-beams and single beams. That is the data that we process to provide nautical charts.
“This is important for safe navigation of all mariners. South Africa is situated along one of Africa’s busiest sea routes and ships need to know where it is safe to sale. Our data can show them where that is,” Le Roux said.
Le Roux joined the navy after completing matric in 1998, where she started with basic military training and progressed to training as a combat officer. From 2004 onwards, she specialised in hydrography.
“Our qualifications for hydrographics are recognised internationally. Our qualifications are regulated the International Hydrographic Organization. The qualifications for hydrographic are equivalent to a degree, the first course, which is a Category A survey qualification is equivalent is a post graduate diploma in hydrographic surveying and the Category B qualification is equivalent to a Bsc is Maritime Science,” Le Roux said.
While the navy has made efforts to educate its organization about not discriminating against women, she explained that women still had to work hard to be recognized.
“You are not always seen as someone who is supposed to be there. Luckily, the navy has done a lot in terms of gender equality and workshops to educate about gender equality.
“I have been excellent in everything that I done, in the sense that I have worked very hard and I have the accolades to show for it. Finishing at the top of my class. Those are some of my achievements and it took hard work,” she said.
Le Roux emphasised the importance of women standing up for themselves.
“Sometimes you have to give back as good as you get. If somebody chirps you, you have stand up for yourself because no one is going to stand up for you. Nobody else is going to pave the way for you. You have to stand up for yourself and show up and take a seat at the table. The future for women is bright. Work hard. There is nothing that stops you from achieving your dreams,” she advised young women. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 08/08/2023 - 11:03
The NHI could make South Africa a leader in digitised healthcare: Government passed the National Health Insurance (NHI) Act on 13 June 2023 and has since received plenty of opinions from various sources on how the ambitious public healthcare system should be run once it is fully implemented. The MANCOSA School of Healthcare (SoH) is …
Health skills development programme to empower KZN youth
The youth of uMshwathi Local Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal are set to benefit from the Hub of Hope – a health and skills development programme for youngsters in Gcumisa and neighbouring communities in that municipality.
Deputy Health Minister, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, on Monday presided over the launch of the Hub of Hope.
“The hub is aligned to the department’s broader youth support programme to empower young people with health information to make well-informed health choices and economic opportunities to increase their skills and knowledge and improved employability,” the department said.
The launch was organised in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), TB HIV Care, uMgungundlovu District Municipality, Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) and other public institutions.
The programme is implemented through DREAMS (Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored and Safe) programme.
DREAMS is an ambitious public-private partnership aimed at reducing rates of HIV among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), decreasing teen pregnancy, keeping girls in school, reducing sexual and gender-based violence and equipping them with skills.
According to Dhlomo, apart from health services, the programme also offers skills development opportunities including basic computer training, baking, hairdressing, beauty technology, nail technology and bookkeeping.
Most of these training opportunities targeted at out-of-school youths are accompanied by starter packs upon completion to enable them to become entrepreneurs.
The launch was attended by amongst others, District and Local Mayors, senior government officials from the South African Police Service (SAPS), South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), over 900 Masijabule High School learners, parents and members of School Governing Body (SGB). – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/08/2023 - 08:32
The Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra has announced that Marin Alsop will no longer be joining the Orchestra for their upcoming national tour in August 2023, as she is unexpectedly indisposed due to health reasons, and currently unable to travel.. “I am devastated that I have had to make the difficult decision to cancel this engagement …
“Stop this madness as soon as possible,” says Judge
Over 100 domestic workers marched to the Union Buildings in Tshwane on Friday
Police dealing with incidents of public violence
The South African Police Service (SAPS) says integrated police deployments are currently dealing with incidents of public violence which erupted this morning in the Nyanga area as the looming taxi strike is yet to come to an end.
Roads in and around Nyanga and the Cape Town International Airport have been affected and traffic is severely backed up on the N2.
Incidents of busses torched in Borcherds Quarry Road are under investigation, and as yet, no injuries have been reported to SAPS.
“Our members will remain on high alert and deployed in numbers to ensure the safety of the public and to maintain law and order,” police said in a statement.
“We encourage any person who has been affected by an act of criminality to report the matter to SAPS immediately, so that an investigation can be initiated."
The public is urged to be vigilant and to apply safety measures to avoid being caught off-guard during the taxi strike.
The Western Cape taxi strike continues after talks failed to reach an agreement.
The meeting was between Santaco taxi industry leaders, the Western Cape government and the City of Cape Town.
Centre to the taxi industry's unhappiness is the ongoing seizure of minibuses. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 08/07/2023 - 09:42
Winde counting the cost of Cape Town's taxi strike
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde says the provincial government remains gravely concerned at the devastating impact caused by the strike called by the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) in the province.
This comes after six Golden Arrow buses were torched due to arson attacks since the taxi strike on Thursday, 3 August 2023.
This has forced the company to terminate its bus services in Khayelitsha, Nyanga, Philippi East, Langa, and Mfuleni, while many roads remain closed.
The Golden Arrow has since secured a court order on Sunday against Santaco to stop intimidating, harassing, threatening, or interfering with Golden Arrow, its employees, and passengers.
“I am appalled at the scale of violence that has not only dealt a severe blow to our economy and critical services but has also delegitimised and damaged Western Cape’s Santaco cause.
“This violence and damage to property has continued this morning. I will be holding a special Cabinet meeting this morning with key leadership from the City of Cape Town to assess what further steps need to be taken and the impact on services,” he said on Monday.
The Premier has again called for taxi leaders affiliated with the council to intensify all efforts to de-escalate the violence and urgently find a resolution to the dispute.
He added, “All sides, more especially residents and commuters, are being harmed by this stay away. We must find common ground now.”
Western Cape MEC for Mobility, Ricardo Mackenzie, said the province is concerned that the strike continues even after urgent engagements throughout the weekend.
“The withdrawal of minibus taxi services since Thursday has had a devastating impact. As the provincial government we are working extremely hard to resolve ongoing issues in the industry and establish new terms of engagement that will ensure the safety of commuters and road users.”
The provincial government said the impact on provincial government and municipal services has been profound.
Because of the strike, the province said 287 420 learners have not been able to attend school across the province since the sudden stay-away was called.
In addition, more than 9 000 teachers and staff were also prevented from going to work.
Meanwhile, the past Saturday’s matric extra classes had to be canceled, impacting 14 000 learners.
According to the Western Cape, many healthcare facilities have been forced to operate at reduced capacity.
These include Tygerberg, Red Cross, and Groote Schuur hospitals and the community health centres and clinics.
While Tygerberg and Salt River forensic pathology services are operational, the province said the response to scenes would be delayed in red zones, as this will also only occur under the protection of law enforcement escorts.
In addition, many Western Cape Department of Social Development staff will have to work from home, due to the volatility of the situation.
The department will also have to temporarily close its offices in several areas.
The Premier said: “This situation is untenable and unacceptable. Our residents cannot be forced to endure this lawlessness. All parties must return to negotiations”.
MEC for Police Oversight and Community Safety, Reagen Allen, has condemned the burning and damage to all property, particularly safety-related resources.
“Contingency plans have been adopted to ensure that the burning of the law enforcement vehicles in Delft will have no operational impact on the deployment of Law Enforcement Advancement (LEAP) officers in the area.”
LEAP, according to the provincial government, is fully operational and part of interventions where required across Cape Town in particular.
Red-zoned areas remain volatile. All law enforcement agencies are deployed across these communities and at strategic points. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 08/07/2023 - 09:46
Universities called to collaborate with NSFAS to address students’ issues
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has called on institutions of higher learning and student leadership to come on board and make constructive inputs on how to address issues facing students.
The scheme made the call during a media briefing held on Monday, where its executive management gave an update on the 2023 academic year’s current state of affairs.
NSFAS Board Chairperson, Ernest Khosa, said a number of things have been happening in the past few days, with most of the blame placed on NSFAS.
Khosa said it would be incorrect to make assumptions that universities are not part of the problem, noting that one of the biggest contributors, which is not only specific to the direct payment system, has been institutions' non-compliance in submitting registration data.
Khosa said the registration data is either submitted late or incorrectly, and this disarms NSFAS, as it "can’t pay students whose registration has not been confirmed”.
“NSFAS policy requires institutions to send updated registration monthly, therefore any wrong payments, such as those paid to students who have dropped out or not attending classes, would be as a result of institutions not alerting NSFAS through this process.
“We remain committed to having a collaborative relationship with the leaders of higher education institutions and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges,” Khosa said.
A total of R608 601 526 has been paid to NSFAS qualifying beneficiaries at public universities, while a total of R383 671 046 was paid to TVET colleges for the month of August alone.
A total of 355 270 paid students, which constitutes 86% of the paid students, have also been able to successfully authenticate themselves and receive their allowances.
Khosa said NSFAS is reviewing and assessing the remaining students who were paid but were unable to access their funds because they had not fully authenticated themselves.
“We do note that some students have been unable to authenticate themselves due to connectivity issues and NSFAS has sent teams to campuses to assist students with their authentication and verification process.
“We have also noted that closer to payment dates, the system experiences technical glitches caused by high internet traffic due to students registering at the same time. Onboarding for TVET college students continues on an ongoing basis as new students enrol,” Khosa said.
The chairperson acknowledged that, as with any introduction of new systems, there have been some teething issues and genuine cases of students who have not been able to access their allowances via the new solution.
He said this can be mainly attributed to issues of data integration with institutions and system glitches caused by too many students/traffic seeking to register onto the system at the same time.
“We have also had reports of students struggling with the authentication process and requiring assistance, hence we swiftly deployed officials across various campuses.”
Verification of information submitted
To ensure the correct processing of these applications, Khosa said, NSFAS has partnered with other entities, including the South African State Security Agency, South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the Department of Home affairs to verify information submitted by individuals during the application stages.
“These partnerships have proven to be fruitful in helping NSFAS make informed decisions. We have had instances where information received through third parties is either outdated or inaccurate. We have been in constant engagements with the said parties in a bid to get real-time data,” Khosa said.
He said a total of 45 927 students were defunded after it was discovered that they did not qualify for funding.
Khosa said after thorough investigation, improved relationships with third party data sources, including SARS, and engagements with the Auditor General South Africa, NSFAS sought to re-evaluate some applications whose funding had been approved.
After this exercise, he said, investigation results indicated that some applicants were not deserving of the funding and had submitted falsified or fraudulent documents. These had to be instantly defunded, as funding individuals who do not meet funding requirements would be going against the provisions of the funding policy, while depriving deserving students.
“For example, students would provide correct parental relationships in their first application attempt, and when they get rejected due to the financial status of those parents, and when they reapply, they submit different parental relationships. When we did re-evaluation, our system picks up the original information previously submitted.
“After re-evaluation, funding was reinstated for 14 703 students, and 31 224 remained unsuccessful, with most first-time entering students having a household income of more than 350 000 and returning students either not meeting the required academic progression, which is 50% of all registered modules or exceeding the N+ rule,” Khosa explained.
The N+ rule refers to the number of years students will receive funding to obtain a qualification. The N+2 rule currently used makes funding provision to students for a minimum number of years allocated to the qualification “N” plus an additional two years N+2. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 08/07/2023 - 15:35
SAPS embarks on a recruitment drive
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has embarked on its 2024/2025 recruitment process in which an additional 10 000 youth between the ages of 18 and 35 will be trained to serve as men and women in blue.
The announcement was made by the Deputy Minister of Police, Cassel Mathale, during a National Career Expo in Mdantsane in the Eastern Cape over the weekend.
The career expo provided the SAPS with the opportunity to showcase, educate and expose communities to the various career paths in the SAPS.
During the proceedings, management announced that the age limit for recruitment of new trainees has been raised to 35.
Application forms are available as of Saturday on the SAPS website: www.saps.gov.za under the police trainees section.
Application forms will also be made available at all police stations from today.
According to the SAPS, there are currently 9 000 trainees in academies throughout the country, another 1 000 will be enlisted for training in January 2024.
This will bring the total number of recruits trained to 10 000 in the 2023/2024 financial year. The 2024/2025 cohort is thus expected to commence their training in April 2024.
Deputy Minister Mathale said the aim is to ensure sufficient boots on the ground to serve and protect the communities.
“We are embarking on this process to ensure more boots on the ground in an effort to maximise our crime combatting efforts,” Mathale said.
The National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola said the organisation is targeting those with a passion for public service.
“We are inviting disciplined, upright and passionate candidates who are ready to serve and protect their communities. With more boots on the ground, we aim to enhance and improve our response to emerging crime trends,” General Masemola said.
The basic requirements for enlistment are the following: Be a South African citizen, be in possession of a matric certificate with NO criminal record. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 08/07/2023 - 09:58
Riverlea residents feel safer with police presence
Residents of Riverlea, west of Johannesburg, say their safety has improved since the Specialised Forces of the South African Police Service (SAPS) were deployed to the area to shut down illegal mining operations.
The residents welcomed the intensified police operations on illegal miners during a recently held community engagement, led by the Police Ministry.
The additional police deployment in the Riverlea area has so far resulted in the arrest of over 190 suspects, the majority of them being undocumented persons.
Police have since recovered scores of illegal firearms, ammunition, stolen property, explosives, gas cylinders and other tools commonly used during illegal mining activities.
Police Minister General Bheki Cele said these policing operations are but one part of the plan to end illegal mining.
“Arresting illegal miners is not the solution to end this well funded and well organised crime. Police are on the ground to stabilise the area so that other departments can come in and work to permanently close off mines and also attend to some of the social issues that exist in this area, which are drivers of crime.
“It is encouraging that the Hawks have arrested the suspects, who police believe are the handlers of these zama zamas and are middle and top players in the web of illegal mining,” Cele said.
He assured the residents of Gauteng affected by illegal mining and crime associated with the organised crime that a lasting solution is on the horizon. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 08/07/2023 - 10:17
Inspirational Alkebulan Immigrants Impact Awards (Awards) to Celebrate the Extraordinary Contributions of Immigrants and Refugees in South Africa. [Johannesburg, 4 August 2023] – The highly anticipated Alkebulan Immigrants Impact Awards (AIIA) were officially launched on 3 August 2023, heralding a momentous occasion to recognize and honour the exceptional achievements and positive impacts of immigrants and …
Starbucks National Barista Championship 2023: Bloemfontein’s Thapelo Reigns Supreme On July 20-21, Starbucks South Africa held its annual National Barista Championship at Starbucks Paarden Eiland, Cape Town. This year’s competition took a thrilling twist, as 7 Starbucks District Champions competed against each other, representing various corners of South Africa, including the bustling cityscape of Johannesburg, …
The Presidency invites all South Africans to use August, as the final month for nominations for National Orders, to identify persons nationally and globally who have served the nation or attained personal achievement in exceptional ways.
National Orders are the highest awards that a country, through its President, bestows on its citizens and eminent foreign nationals.
The President as the fount (holder, cradle, main source) of honour in the country bestows these Orders and Decorations and is assisted by the Director-General in The Presidency, who is the Chancellor of National Orders and an Advisory Council on National Orders, in the execution of this responsibility.
The Chancellor of National Orders, Ms Phindile Baleni, calls on citizens to make nominations for National Orders as part of sustaining the integrity, inclusiveness and diversity of this institution of social cohesion and nation-building.
Ms Baleni said: “The National Orders are a platform for the recognition of fellow South Africans and persons globally who, in exceptional ways, have historically made or are currently making important or interesting contributions to all aspects of our national life.
“From politics to popular culture, as well as the recognition of bravery, the National Orders give us an opportunity annually to be inspired by and grateful for people who have done outstanding things to shape our past and our future.
“We therefore invite people from all walks of life and backgrounds – including the youth of our country - to identify from their communities and sectors persons who, on the basis of exceptional achievements or contributions, deserve the honour of a National Order.”
The birth of a non-racial and non-sexist democracy in South Africa in 1994 necessitated a review of the system of National Orders.
A review was conducted from May 1998 by the newly-instituted President's Advisory Council on National Orders and the Orders were progressively instituted in 2002 and 2003.
The Order of Mapungubwe is awarded to South African citizens for excellence and exceptional achievement.
The Order of the Baobab is awarded to South African citizens for distinguished service. The service awarded is well above and beyond the ordinary call of duty. It is an award for exceptional and distinguished contributions in the following categories: business and the economy: science, medicine and technological innovation, and community service.
The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo is awarded to foreign nationals (Heads of State and Government) and other foreign dignitaries. It is awarded for friendship shown to South Africa. It is therefore an order of peace, co-operation and active expression of solidarity and support. The Order constitutes an essential pillar of international and multilateral relations.
The Order of Luthuli is awarded to South Africans who have made a meaningful contribution to the struggle for democracy, human rights, nation-building, justice and peace, and conflict resolution.
The Order of Ikhamanga is awarded to South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport.
The Mendi Decoration for Bravery is awarded to South African citizens who have performed an extraordinary act of bravery that placed their lives in great danger, or who lost their own lives including in trying to save the life of another person, or by saving property, in or outside the Republic of South Africa.
Nomination forms that outline simple guidelines to proposers of nominees can be downloaded at https://www.thepresidency.gov.za/download/file/fid/2785
Submissions must include:
• an introductory paragraph with a summary of the nominee's achievements
• a list of exceptional milestones reached by the nominee in his/her career and/or international arena, and
• a description of the exceptional, outstanding, dedicated service or act of bravery rendered by the nominee.
The closing date for nominations: 31 August 2023.
Details of the annual National Orders Ceremony will be provided at a later date.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.
SA's sportswomen praised for reaching new heights
President Cyril Ramaphosa has lauded female athletes for reaching new heights and achieving remarkable accomplishments across a number of sporting codes.
In his weekly newsletter on Monday, the President said this has been a great year for women’s sport in South Africa and the nation is exhilarated by the successes of sportswomen on the field, track and pitch.
“Our female athletes have reached new heights across a number of sporting codes, and we have hosted several women’s international sports tournaments.
“Our nation’s sportswomen have proven themselves, time and again. It is up to us, as a society, to provide the necessary environment that will enable a new generation of women and girls to thrive and excel in sport,” the President said.
SA’s women’s national football team, Banyana Banyana, who are the reigning Women’s Africa Cup of Nations champions, has delivered some stunning performances in the FIFA Women’s World Cup taking place in Australia and New Zealand.
The women’s netball team, the Proteas, also put in a strong showing at the Netball World Cup that ended in Cape Town on Sunday.
In February, the country hosted the first ICC Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup to take place on African soil. Our national team made history as the first South African team to reach the final.
The President said that many of these fine sportswomen have excelled despite humble beginnings, overcoming adversity and achieving success despite the odds.
“As we prepare to celebrate Women’s Day later this week, these many achievements are a reminder of how far we have come in building a South Africa where women are full and equal participants in society. They are also a reminder of how much further we still need to go,” he said.
President Ramaphosa said that the increased participation of women and girls in sport supports women’s empowerment and advances gender equality.
He highlighted that earlier this year, UN Women launched the Sports for Generation Equality Initiative. It noted that sport holds enormous capacity to propel women and girls’ empowerment. Female athletes are inspiring role models and can make the most of their status “to raise awareness around gender issues and to demand change”.
The President added that competing in sports fosters a sense of empowerment among women, helping them build confidence in their abilities and break gender stereotypes. Through sports, he said, women can challenge societal norms, experiencing personal growth and achievement.
He said that all of these can enable women and girls to be more assertive and confident in society, and can support the fight against discrimination and gender-based violence.
“As government, we want to increase the representation of women in sport and to promote the development of women’s sports both through mass participation and at an elite level.
“There are a number of government programmes to develop mass participation in women’s sports. There are also initiatives supported by the private sector and international development partners," he said.
When it comes to elite athletes, the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee’s ‘Operation Excellence’ programme provides preparatory support to Olympians and Paralympians.
The President pointed out that funding and sponsorship predominantly flow towards male-dominated team sports such as football, cricket, and rugby. He said these sports have well-established professional leagues, unlike women's football, cricket, and rugby.
The President highlighted that this situation adds to the significant difference in pay between female athletes and their male counterparts.
“Equal pay for work of equal value is one of most fundamental tenets of gender equality. The sporting fraternity is neither exceptional nor is it exempt.
“That female athletes should still earn less than their male counterparts is an affront to our nation’s sportswomen, more so at a time when the achievements of some of our women’s sports teams surpass those of our men’s teams,” the President said.
He called on sponsors and sporting bodies to direct greater resources to women’s sports.
President Ramaphosa said it is only through greater sponsorship and support that women’s sport will be able to grow and attract larger audiences. As they attract a greater following, he said, women’s sports events will provide greater value to sponsors.
The President added that the success of the major women’s sports tournaments that have been hosted in South Africa will no doubt bolster our bid to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2027.
“Working together as government, business and the sporting fraternity we can level the playing field for women’s sports in our country. And by so doing, we will take another step towards a more equal society,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 08/07/2023 - 10:25
A strong contingent of female elite athletes will commemorate National Women’s Day on Wednesday 09 August 2023 by participating in South Africa’s largest Women’s Day celebration, the Totalsports Women’s Race in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban in support of PinkDrive. Somerset West based athlete Kyla Jacobs will make her Totalsports Women’s Race debut in Cape …
Call for nominations for National Orders
The Presidency has reminded South Africans to nominate candidates, either South African nationals or eminent foreign nationals, for National Orders, as the closing date for nominations approaches.
The closing date for nominations is 31 August 2023.
National Orders are the highest awards that an individual can receive in South Africa for serving the country or attaining personal achievement – both nationally and internationally – “in exceptional ways”.
Director General in the Presidency, Phindile Baleni, reflected on the importance of the awards.
“The National Orders are a platform for the recognition of fellow South Africans and persons globally who, in exceptional ways, have historically made or are currently making important or interesting contributions to all aspects of our national life.
“From politics to popular culture, as well as the recognition of bravery, the National Orders give us an opportunity annually to be inspired by and grateful for people who have done outstanding things to shape our past and our future.
“We therefore invite people from all walks of life and backgrounds – including the youth of our country - to identify from their communities and sectors persons who, on the basis of exceptional achievements or contributions, deserve the honour of a National Order,” Baleni said.
The Presidency explained the different orders that can be obtained:
“National Orders are the highest awards that a country, through its President, bestows on its citizens and eminent foreign nationals.
“The President as the fount of honour in the country bestows these Orders and Decorations and is assisted by the Director-General in The Presidency, who is the Chancellor of National Orders and an Advisory Council on National Orders, in the execution of this responsibility,” the Presidency said.
Nomination forms can be obtained at https://www.thepresidency.gov.za/download/file/fid/2785 and submissions must include:
Nominations can be sent to:
NeoB
Mon, 08/07/2023 - 09:22
Subcouncil 3 manager says area is too volatile to render services
Cloudmania, launched by Liquid C2 in 2021 to support Africa's digital transformation journey, opens its doors for the Mauritius channel partner ecosystem. With partners in 22 countries across the continent, Cloudmania is committed to providing cloud and cyber security services to partners within an ecosystem defined by support, expertise, and enablement.
Vinay Hiralall, Managing Executive of Cloudmania, said, “Our operations have grown exponentially, in the last year itself, we have grown from 100 partners to over 500. This highlights that our value proposition resonates with channel partners across the continent. We have a deep understanding of the channel ecosystem and work with partners to provide the technical enablement, operational efficiency, and solution portfolio to drive their businesses forward. Winning the Microsoft Partner of the Year award in Ethiopia and Côte d'Ivoire in 2022 and 2023, respectively, reinforces our commitment to delivering solutions that propel cloud adoption and partner growth and accelerate digital transformation for businesses in Africa”.
All resellers that partner with Cloudmania receive access to a suite of market-leading solutions tailored to suit their customers' needs. Cloudmania aims to help channel partners better manage their business by creating a single-pane view via an always-on platform that assists with billing and subscription management services. In addition to providing partners with programmes that drive sales enablement, they also have access to our marketing initiatives and technical advisories. By alleviating the backend operations, partners can focus more on their core business of expanding their operations and increasing their customer base.
Cloudmania understands the critical role cloud and cyber security technologies play in today's digital economy. “Being recognised by one of the largest global hyper-scalers like Microsoft as ‘Partner of the Year' is testimony to Cloudmania's unwavering commitment towards ushering change, development, and progress through technology, and we hope to win next year's award for Mauritius,” concluded Hiralall.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Liquid Intelligent Technologies.
About Cloudmania:
Launched by Liquid C2 in 2021, Cloudmania is a Cloud Services and Solutions provider extending convenience, diversity, and a range of services. The company has opened its doors to numerous countries across the African continent, including South Africa, Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Nigeria, Ghana, Mauritius, Ethiopia, Côte d'Ivoire, Senegal, Cameroon, Botswana, and the Democratic Republic of Congo serving the mission to bring about digital disruption using the power of the cloud. Cloudmania offers cutting-edge solutions to provide a full suite of partner-focused products and services. The organisation was awarded a Microsoft Partner of the Year in Ethiopia 2022 and Côte d'Ivoire in 2023. For more information: https://Cloudmania.Africa/
About Liquid C2:
Liquid C2 is a business of Liquid Intelligent Technologies, a pan-African technology group, offering managed cloud and security services, product solutions, and related professional and advisory services in 22 African countries. It operates Africa's widest Azure Stack deployment across four countries and deployed the only African Cyber Security Fusion Centres in South Africa and Kenya, with another four to be launched in 2023. Liquid C2 was selected as an Operator Connect launch partner by Microsoft in six countries. The organisation was a finalist in the Microsoft Partner of the Year 2021 in South Africa and Microsoft Partner of the Year in Ethiopia and Côte d'Ivoire in 2022 and 2023. https://LiquidC2.com/
The government needs to act quickly and provide more money to recruit more judges
Government keen to see the growth of netball in SA
In a bid to facilitate the growth of netball in the country, government will build a netball exclusive arena, President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Sunday.
The President made the announcement during the closing ceremony of the Netball World Cup held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre over the past 10 days.
The tournament was held on African soil for the first time.
“One of the things that’s been said...is that we need to ensure that netball grows in South Africa. To enable it to grow, we must build netball facilities throughout the country.
“I’m happy to say that your closing ceremony is on Women's Month here in South Africa. So therefore, the gift that we are going to give to the women of South Africa and also the women around the world is to build a netball arena. We are going to do it,” President Ramaphosa said.
The first citizen was in attendance of the final match of the tournament on Sunday which culminated in Australia beating England to take home the trophy.
The President sent his congratulations to all the countries that took part in the tournament.
“I want to congratulate the winning team, the number one, number two and number three. But also to say congratulations to all who have been participating in this tournament. You are all winners.
“I have been watching your sport for the past ten days and I must tell you, I have become a new fan,” he said.
President Ramaphosa commended the celebratory atmosphere that was created by crowds that attended matches throughout the tournament.
“I also want to congratulate you for the vibe as young people would say, for the wonderful vibe.
“There has been a very outstanding vibe here and I felt it today. You created a very wonderful African vibe and I’m glad that all the other nations participated in the wonderful spirit that prevailed in this tournament,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 08/06/2023 - 21:14