MyZA

News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff

You are here: Home / Archives for African

African

Ecobank Côte D’Ivoire Launches West Africa’s First Gender Bond

Location: Business
Ecobank Transnational Incorporated

Ecobank Côte d'Ivoire, a subsidiary of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (www.Ecobank.com), the leading Pan African Bank, takes a major step forward in its commitment to financial inclusion with the launch of the first Gender Bond in West Africa. This groundbreaking bond issuance, amounting to XOF 10 billion, aims to mobilize funding for women-owned and women-led businesses, reducing financing inequalities and fostering inclusive economic growth.

Named "Ellever Gender Bond 6.5% 2024-2029," this bond has been structured and arranged by EDC Investissement Corporation (EIC), Ecobank's Brokerage and Asset Management subsidiary. It marks Ecobank Côte d'Ivoire's second bond issuance after its initial fundraising in 2013. Aligned with international sustainable finance standards, the Gender Bond has received an independent second-party opinion from Morningstar Sustainalytics, ensuring compliance with global best practices in responsible investment.

Since its inception, the ELLEVER program has made a tangible impact on women entrepreneurship. In 2024, over 3,465 businesses registered, benefiting from XOF 13.25 billion in disbursed loans. However, access to financing remains a significant challenge for women entrepreneurs in West Africa, where less than 20% of women-led SMEs have access to adequate funding. Globally, Gender Bonds represented only USD 14.5 billion, accounting for just 1.5% of the sustainable bond market in 2023, underscoring the need to expand such initiatives.

According to Paul-Harry Aithnard, Managing Director of Ecobank Côte d'Ivoire, women's financial inclusion is a major economic priority. "This Gender Bond provides a tangible solution to the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in West Africa. Today, women-led businesses are recognized for their resilience and performance, yet they remain significantly underfunded. Through this issuance, we reaffirm our commitment to building an ecosystem where women have full access to the financial resources they need to grow and succeed. This is a powerful tool to transform access to financing and sustainably accelerate the growth of women-led businesses."

The "Ellever Gender Bond 6.5% 2024-2029" offers investors and the public a unique opportunity to combine profitability with social impact. This five-year bond provides an attractive annual interest rate of 6.5% with a two-year capital repayment grace period. The total issuance of XOF 10 billion consists of one million securities with a nominal value of XOF 10,000 each.

All funds raised will be fully allocated to strengthening the ELLEVER program, financing initiatives led by women, and providing them with tailored financial and technical support. Roseline Abé, Chief Executive Officer of EDC Investissement Corporation, highlights the significance of this initiative: "We have structured this bond to be attractive to investors while delivering a strong impact on women's empowerment in Côte d'Ivoire. This is a unique opportunity to combine financial performance with social inclusion."

With this Gender Bond, Ecobank Côte d'Ivoire cements its leadership in sustainable finance and paves the way for greater economic inclusion. The bank's ambition goes beyond this issuance, as it envisions a long-term strategy to promote innovative and inclusive financial instruments.

Paul-Harry Aithnard concludes: "This issuance is just the beginning. We will continue to develop tailored solutions to enhance women's participation in the economy and encourage other financial institutions to follow this path."

Through this initiative, Ecobank Côte d'Ivoire is transforming access to finance and reaffirming its commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated.

Media Contact:
Cynthia KOIDIO
Corporate Communications Manager
Ecobank Côte d'Ivoire
Email: ckoidio@ecobank.com
Tel : +2250787733729

About Ecobank Côte d'Ivoire:
Ecobank Côte d'Ivoire is a subsidiary of the Ecobank Group, the leading independent pan-African banking group, whose parent company is Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI).

The Ecobank Group employs over 13,000 professionals, serving approximately 32 million customers across retail, commercial, and corporate banking sectors in 33 African countries. The Group also holds a banking license in France and maintains representative offices in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Johannesburg (South Africa), Beijing (China), London (United Kingdom), and Dubai (United Arab Emirates). Ecobank offers a comprehensive range of banking products, services, and solutions, including deposit accounts, cash management, advisory services, trading, securities brokerage, and wealth management. ETI is listed on multiple stock exchanges, including the Nigerian Stock Exchange (Lagos), the Ghana Stock Exchange (Accra), and the Bourse Régionale des Valeurs Mobilières (Abidjan).

For more information, visit www.Ecobank.com.

Media files
Ecobank Transnational Incorporated
Download logo
Read moreEcobank Côte D’Ivoire Launches West Africa’s First Gender Bond

Minister Tolashe assures smooth transition to Postbank Black Cards for grant beneficiaries

Location: News

Minister Tolashe assures smooth transition to Postbank Black Cards for grant beneficiaries

Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe has assured social grant beneficiaries that her department, in collaboration with the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), is working tirelessly to resolve any challenges they may encounter while swapping their SASSA Gold Cards for the new Postbank Black Cards.

In a video posted by SASSA on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Thursday, Tolashe reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring an efficient and secure social security system for all beneficiaries.

“As a department of Social Development and SASSA, we want to assure you that our commitment to provide efficient social security system is still our top priority. We are doing everything in our power to resolve all the concerns and difficulties that you have,” she said.

The Minister emphasised that efforts are being made to assist all beneficiaries using the SASSA Gold Card before its expiry on 20 March 2025. She urged recipients to replace their cards with the Postbank Black Card, or switch to a bank of their choice to avoid any disruptions in receiving their grants. 

“We are working tirelessly to ensure that all our beneficiaries currently using the SASSA Gold Card are assisted speedily, efficiently and with dignity,” Tolashe stated.

She also reassured beneficiaries that the department is strengthening and monitoring its systems to prevent cyberattacks and safeguard personal information.

“Despite the challenges that we face today, we care about your wellbeing, and it is our responsibility to serve you with dignity and respect, as we continue to pay the right social grant to the right person at the right time and place, always,” she said. 

To ensure that no one is left behind and all beneficiaries that need to replace their cards are reached, Postbank announced in a statement on 27 February 2025 that it has increased the number of tellers servicing all the existing sites across the country. 

Postbank has also added more places to replace cards. Postbank black cards can be obtained from select outlets of major retailers that include Pick n Pay, Boxer, Usave, Shoprite and Checkers.

In addition, Postbank has started rolling out Spar stores nationwide to replace cards, providing an additional 234 places for beneficiaries to get cards.

A shortened USSD number which beneficiaries can use to look up sites has been introduced to improve their customer experience. To look up sites, beneficiaries can follow this process:

  • Dial *120*355#
  • Reply with (1) to continue
  • Reply with the province number (numbers 1 to 9 representing all provinces)
  • Reply with the number of the municipality. Then all the card replacement sites under that municipality will appear. - SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 12:35
 452 views

Read moreMinister Tolashe assures smooth transition to Postbank Black Cards for grant beneficiaries

US withdraws from Just Energy Transition partnership with SA

Location: News

US withdraws from Just Energy Transition partnership with SA

South Africa says it notes the United States’ decision to revoke the US International Climate Finance Plan, which had led to the withdrawal from the Just Energy Transition (JET) partnership with South Africa.

Last month, US President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14162 to revoke and rescind this plan.

According to reports, this also means the immediate withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement designed to combat climate change by curbing global greenhouse gas emissions.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said President Trump’s recent actions have affected the policies aimed at advancing South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JETP).

“As a result, effective immediately, the US has announced the termination of its membership of the International Partners Group (IPG) for JETPs South Africa, Indonesia and Vietnam,” the department explained.

With the United States withdrawal, the department said associated financial pledges are also withdrawn.

“Grant projects that were previously funded and in planning or implementation phases have been cancelled.”

However, DIRCO said the country remains committed to implementing international agreements, including the decisions taken at the historic Paris Agreement.

“South Africa and other international partners will evaluate the implications of the US withdrawal from the JETP,” the department said,

During a parliamentary discussion regarding the United States’ decision to reduce funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), DIRCO Minister Ronald Lamola said South Africa should not lament this change. Instead, the country should view this situation as an opportunity for transformation.

“We must act in unison to mitigate the negative impact of the USAID cuts. We must seize this moment to reconceptualise our global system and ensure that our domestic imperatives serve our nation efficiently and sustainably,” Lamola told Members of Parliament (MP).

He highlighted that the United States is South Africa’s biggest trading partner in the world after China.
South Africa is home to 601 American companies, accounting for 143 000 jobs.

The Minister told MPs that in 2023, bilateral trade between the US and South Africa equalled US$ 22 billion, with the United States being a significant agricultural export destination for South Africa.

South Africa exports platinum, motor vehicles, reaction initiators, ferroalloys, citrus, jewellery, nuts, chemicals, wines, engines, turbines, and ships and boats to the United States.

According to Lamola, about 22 South African companies are currently invested in the United States, providing about 6 900 jobs. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 12:46
 336 views

Read moreUS withdraws from Just Energy Transition partnership with SA

SA to champion women’s leadership on International Women’s Day

Location: News

SA to champion women’s leadership on International Women’s Day

As South Africa continues to make significant strides in women’s representation in government, greater efforts are urgently needed to ensure women’s leadership extends to corporate and economic sectors.

The Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities made the remarks ahead of the global commemoration of International Women’s Day (IWD) on Saturday, 8 March 2025.

International Women’s Day is a worldwide celebration of women’s achievements, as well as a powerful call to action for gender equality.

The day serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions women make to society, while also highlighting the ongoing challenges they continue to face in various spheres of life.

This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action” encourages the global community to intensify efforts to implement strategies, allocate resources, and initiate activities that will positively impact the advancement of women everywhere.

The WID 2025 coincides with the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women and the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995) (“Beijing +30”).

The year also marks the final five years of the 2030 United Nations Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscoring the urgency of advancing gender equality globally.

The department emphasised that with the right action and support, positive progress can be made for women across the globe.

“South Africa continues to make strides in women’s representation in government, with women making up 46% of Parliament and 43% of the Cabinet. However, greater efforts are needed to ensure women’s leadership in corporate and economic sectors.

“More work should be done to accelerate equal representation, as women remain underrepresented in high-income sectors and continue to face significant wage gaps. To bridge the gap, there is a need to demonstrate actions to stronger policies on financial inclusion, access to credit, and workplace protections for women,” the department said on Friday.

The department highlighted the importance of equipping women with the necessary tools and resources to start and grow businesses, manage household finances, and invest in their futures.

These efforts will strengthen their voices in decisions affecting them, and also help narrow gender gaps in financial access, while endorsing broader social and economic equality.

In alignment with the Government of National Unity's (GNU) priorities for the 7th administration, which has identified rapid, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth for all South Africans, the department emphasised that these priorities align closely with the World Economic Forum's (WEF) agenda for women’s rights.

The WEF focuses on closing gender gaps in economic participation, pay, and leadership.

“The South African Constitution champions the achievement of equality, including gender equality, throughout its provisions, particularly section 9 of the Constitution, which creates a basis for the obligation of the public sector, the private sector and civil society to eliminate and remedy gender, race and social inequalities,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 12:57
 171 views

Read moreSA to champion women’s leadership on International Women’s Day

No NGOs under investigation for money laundering, terror financing

Location: News

No NGOs under investigation for money laundering, terror financing

The Department of Social Development has refuted claims made in recent media reports alleging that 50 South African NGOs are being investigated for terror funding and money laundering. 

In a statement on Friday, the department clarified that there were no such non-profit organisations under investigation.

“The Department of Social Development has noted attributed statements in recent media reports that 50 South African NGOs are being probed for terror funding and money laundering. The department would like to put it on record that there are no such NPOs,” the statement read. 

The department said that it convened a symposium with NPOs and other stakeholders to make the NPO community aware of South Africa’s obligations with regard to the implementation of anti-money laundering and the counter terror financing measures. 

The aim of the symposium was to strengthen consultation mechanisms between government and NPOs. It focused on deficiencies in SA’s measures to protect NPOs from exploitation to fund terrorist organisations as identified in the 2021 FATF Mutual Evaluation. 

The FATF reiterated its findings relating to these deficiencies in its 2024 Mutual Evaluation Follow Up Report on South Africa. This is available at file:///content/dam/fatf-gafi/fur/South-Africa-Follow-Up-Report-2024.pdf.coredownload.inline.pdf.

Delegates were informed about the recently launched NPO TF Risk Assessment that was undertaken to assess the nature of potential threats and inherent vulnerabilities that may potentially put NPOs in South Africa at risk of terror financing abuse, which can be found at https://www.dsd.gov.za/index.php/documents?task=download.send&id=565&catid=86&m=0.

“However, at no point during the symposium were any allegations made that NPOs in South Africa are implicated in terrorist financing or money laundering, or that the South African authorities are investigating any NPOs for involvement in these activities,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 15:25
 140 views

Read moreNo NGOs under investigation for money laundering, terror financing

South Africa’s G20 Presidency to benefit all

Location: News

South Africa’s G20 Presidency to benefit all

International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Thandi Moraka says South Africa’s G20 Presidency is aimed at ensuring resource-rich nations and communities in places like Limpopo can benefit equitably from their mineral wealth.

“In the midst of global geopolitical tensions and rising protectionist, South Africa’s G20 Presidency will champion cooperation, collaboration and partnerships between individuals, groups, peoples and nations,” Moraka said.

Speaking at the G20 Community Outreach event at the University of Venda in Limpopo today, Moraka said strengthening partnerships and expanding dialogue with a wide range of actors is important to collectively shape the G20’s approach to issues requiring international cooperation.

“South Africa will therefore also host a G20 Social Summit, prior to the Leaders’ Summit, by expanding outreach to communities beyond the 13 official G20 Engagement Groups,” Moraka said.

Moraka said during South Africa’s Presidency, there will be more than 85 in-person meetings throughout the country, including five meetings in Limpopo.

“We encourage the people of Limpopo to become more involved in these processes. We have been asked, and rightfully so, what benefits does the G20 Presidency brings to South Africa

“Tens of thousands of delegates and support staff from some of the world’s largest developed and developing economies are expected to arrive in South Africa over the year-long Presidency. 

“In addition to many Ministers, the Heads of State and Government of more than 40 countries will attend the Leaders’ Summit in November 2025,” the Deputy Minister said.

Moraka said the G20 Presidency was without a doubt a mammoth task, requiring considerable personnel and resources, by most accounts, this was the largest national project that South Africa has ever undertaken.

“This project is expected to have significant economic benefits for South Africa, notably for the tourism, transport, restaurant, entertainment and hospitality industries, with global visibility in all nine provinces.

“There is also significant opportunity for South African provinces and cities to promote their cultural, heritage, tourism and innovation, but also an opportunity to demonstrate South Africa’s technological, industrial and commercial advances across various sectors,” Moraka said.

A number of direct and indirect jobs are expected to be created during South Africa’s G20 Presidency.

“It therefore goes without saying that the support of all South Africans in telling a good story and highlighting our successes is critical if we are to leave a permanent G20 legacy for South Africa, and the whole of the African continent.  

“It is important for us all to work in synergy and in cooperation and partnership, more so in a fractured world filled with conflict and destruction. As much as we are excited to host the first G20 Presidency on the African continent, we are also cognisant of the enormous task that is before us,” the Deputy Minister said.

Also speaking at the same event, Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba said she was delighted to welcome esteemed members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, business leaders and all distinguished guests to the historic occasion, the first-ever G20 community outreach to be held in the province.

Ramathuba said the engagement was an opportunity to strengthen ties, advance collaboration and ensure that global economic policies translate into meaningful opportunities for local communities.

“It is also a symbolic gesture, a recognition of the role that provinces like Limpopo play in shaping the broader economic landscape of South Africa and the African continent,” the Premier said.

As the only African nation represented in the G20, South Africa carries a profound responsibility in ensuring that the voices of developing economies, particularly those in Africa, are heard on the global stage.

“The G20’s focus on economic growth, trade, investment, climate action and digital transformation resonates deeply with developmental priorities in Limpopo. 

“We understand that global economic policies have real, tangible effects on the lives of ordinary people, and it is our duty to ensure that these policies translate into meaningful opportunities for our communities,” Dr Ramathuba said. 

Lutendo Luvhengo, a third year student at the University of Venda told SAnews that although she had little knowledge about G20 and South Africa’s G20 Presidency, she hoped that South Africa’s hosting of the G20 meetings would benefit ordinary people.

“I believe that our country’s economy is going to improve. The guests coming to South Africa some of them are going to invest in our country and that will create more jobs,” she said.

Luvhengo was confident that the G20 meetings were going to be successful.

Echoing same sentiments was Israel Marema, first year Bcom student who said the G20 meetings were “investments in the country”.

“This is going to reduce the level of poverty by creating more job opportunities,” he said. 

Today’s launch of the G20 Outreach Programme forms part of a series of initiatives aimed at fostering wider public dialogue and participation in South Africa's G20 Presidency. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 15:53
 3 views

Read moreSouth Africa’s G20 Presidency to benefit all

Multi-stakeholder symposium reaffirms commitment to remove SA from FATF grey list

Location: News

Multi-stakeholder symposium reaffirms commitment to remove SA from FATF grey list

After thorough deliberations, a multi-stakeholder symposium -- hosted by the Department of Social Development -- has reaffirmed its commitment to resolving outstanding action items on Recommendation 8 and ensuring South Africa's removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list. 

The three-day symposium was convened by the Department of Social Development under the theme: "Together Countering the Financing of Terrorism in the NPO Sector-Promoting Cooperation and Compliance with the Global Standards”. 

In a statement on Friday, the department said the symposium was convened to focus specifically on FATF Recommendation 8 and was attended by representatives of government, civil society, Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs), financial and non-financial regulators, and NPO funding lobby groups.

“Since its grey listing by FATF in February 2023, South Africa has already made notable progress in complying with the global standards on the prevention of money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing,” the department said. 

According to National Treasury, which is the lead department in addressing the overall FATF recommendations, South Africa is now left with one reporting cycle to address the remaining six action items.

Three of the outstanding action items relate to demonstrating a sustained increase in the investigation and prosecution of complex money laundering, terror financing and unlicensed cross-border money or value transfer services.

FATF Recommendation 8 focuses on NPOs and the potential use of the sector as a vehicle for money laundering and terror financing. FATF has rated most of the action items under Recommendation 8 as partly addressed. 

“Although FATF has made it clear that not all NPOs are at risk of being used for money laundering and terror financing, the department convened the multi-stakeholder engagement to inform the NPO sector of progress, create broader awareness, share best practice and promote better understanding of FATF global standards for NPOs,” the department said. 

The symposium underscored the critical importance of civil society and NPOs in South Africa, as they complement government and the private sectors in providing essential services to the most vulnerable groups and communities in society. 

Some of the key highlights from the multi-stakeholder engagement symposium are as follows:

· No one size fits all approach. Not all NPOs are vulnerable to money laundering and terror financing, as some only operate within the borders of South Africa. FATF’s risk-based approach should be applied to high-risk NPOs.

· Data sharing across government and with the private sector/funders. The multi-stakeholder engagement symposium highlighted the need for data sharing agreements among government departments, law enforcement agencies and the private sector to assist in early warning and detection of suspicious activities by high- risk NPOs.

· Overregulation of the NPO sector. While the NPO sector welcomed government’s proposed initiative and measures to comply with FATF’s global standards as part of implementing Recommendation 8, they cautioned against overregulating the sector, which has the potential to stifle community activism and active citizenry envisaged in the National Development Plan.

· Expansion of outreach and educational programmes. One of the key issues emerging from the multi-stakeholder engagement symposium is the need for the Department of Social Development to conduct more outreach in collaboration with other regulators such as the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the National Lotteries Commission (NLC).

· Establishment of an independent NPO regulator. It was recommended that the Department of Social Development should consider setting up the NPO Directorate in its current form as an independent NPO regulator. There was general consensus that the department cannot play a dual role of being NPO funder and regulator at the same time.

· Continued commitment beyond FATF’s grey listing. All participants agreed to continue collaborating and improving coordination, including harmonisation of funding requirements.

The symposium closed with a declaration signed and adopted by all participants to combat all forms of money laundering and terror financing in South Africa.

Delivering closing remarks, the Acting Deputy Director-General: Community Development, Mpho Mngxitama, expressed gratitude to all participants and commended them for their unwavering commitment to exit South Africa from the grey list, as well as improve transparency and accountability in the NPO sector.

“As FATF’s onsite visit approaches, it is now all hands-on deck to expedite action on all
outstanding items to exit South Africa from the grey list on record time,” the department said.

NPO Online Solution

The department seized the opportunity to demonstrate the NPO Online Solution, a self-service portal that will enable members of the public to register new NPOs, check status of their application, submit annual compliance reports and voluntary deregistration, amongst others.

A key feature of the new innovative and streamlined DSD NPO Online Solution is that it will be linked to the portals of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC). 

It was agreed that a webinar will be organised to pilot the online solution before national roll out in the new financial year. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 13:59
 96 views

Read moreMulti-stakeholder symposium reaffirms commitment to remove SA from FATF grey list

KZN Premier calls for swift arrest in Sphindiwe Hlongwa’s murder

Location: News

KZN Premier calls for swift arrest in Sphindiwe Hlongwa’s murder

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has called for the swift arrest of the perpetrators involved in the rape and murder of Sphindiwe Hlongwa, whose body was found dumped near her home in Mkhazini, south of Durban.

According to reports, Hlongwa, 31, was found strangled to death, with visible signs of assault and a swollen face after being dropped off by a Renault Kwid near her home on Monday evening.

Ntuli has condemned Hlongwa’s killing, describing the act as “barbaric, inhumane, and an attack on the dignity and safety of women” in the province.

“We are deeply horrified by yet another grotesque act of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). The perpetrators of this heinous crime must be brought to justice without delay. This is one of many murders linked to the scourge of GBVF in our province. 

“However, working with the SAPS [South African Police Service] under our Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi, we will make sure to treat every case as an emergency, one case at a time. We will never give up and we will do everything to defeat GBVF,” the Premier said.

Ntuli urged anyone with information related to the crime to come forward and assist the police by contacting Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or their nearest police station.

International Women's Month commemoration

Meanwhile, Ntuli will on Saturday lead a delegation of the Members of the Executive Council (MEC) to commemorate International Women's Day at the KwaMashu Civic Centre.

International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women's achievements and a call for gender equality. Observed annually on 8 March, the day is a reminder of the contributions women make to society and the challenges they continue to face. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 11:54
 50 views

Read moreKZN Premier calls for swift arrest in Sphindiwe Hlongwa’s murder

Police seize illegally harvested abalone worth R1.3m

Location: News

Police seize illegally harvested abalone worth R1.3m

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has welcomed the recovery of over 4 300 illegally harvested abalone valued at approximately R1.3 million and the arrest of 11 people allegedly involved in illegal poaching operations.

From 28 February to 2 March 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS), the City of Cape Town Marine Unit, and other enforcement agencies successfully disrupted a large-scale illegal poaching operation involving approximately 50 snorkel divers at Robben Island.

"The scale and brazenness of this illegal activity are deeply concerning, but the professionalism and dedication of our enforcement teams have once again demonstrated our unwavering commitment to protecting South Africa’s marine resources.

“I extend my sincere appreciation to all those involved for their tireless work in preventing the exploitation of our marine biodiversity,” the Minister said on Friday.

This operation follows a series of successful interventions in the last month, where law enforcement officers intercepted four significant abalone-related cases in a single day. 

On 13 February 2025, coordinated operations in Glencairn, Muizenberg, Grabouw, and Botriver led to the seizure of thousands of illegally harvested abalone and the arrest of multiple suspects.

The Minister has reiterated government's firm stance against illegal fishing and called on the public to report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.

"We will continue strengthening our enforcement capabilities and working closely with our partners to ensure that those who exploit our natural resources face the full consequences of the law. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every officer and partner involved in these operations. Their hard work and sacrifice are crucial in safeguarding South Africa’s marine biodiversity,” George said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 11:58
 39 views

Read morePolice seize illegally harvested abalone worth R1.3m

Committee Welcomes Arrest of SASSA Officials Suspected of Fraud

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
Download logo

The Portfolio Committee on Social Development welcomes the arrest of three South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) officials suspected of fraud at the Idutywa Local Office in the Eastern Cape.

The officials were arrested after SASSA's Eastern Cape Regional Executive Manager, Mr Bandile Maqetuka, visited the Idutywa Local Office on Tuesday, 4 March 2025, unannounced. Several unaccounted-for documents, such as birth certificates, affidavits, bank cards, identity documents, and stamped municipal letters, were found in one of the official's drawers.

The committee commends SASSA for following up with the unannounced visit after receiving a tip-off from beneficiaries. It is important for government departments and entities to take information from whistle-blowers seriously, as this is part of accountability.

Furthermore, the committee is pleased with the swift action from the South African Police Service in arresting the officials and hopes all the law enforcement agencies in the value chain will continue in the same manner.

The committee has consistently lamented the slow pace of investigations in cases related to fraud, corruption and financial misconduct in the Department of Social Development and SASSA. The Auditor-General has flagged the issue of investigations taking place at a snail's pace in the department and at SASSA.

The committee hopes the arrest will help deter fraudulent activities.

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

Read moreCommittee Welcomes Arrest of SASSA Officials Suspected of Fraud

G20 Leaders’ Summit at the end of the year to enhance tourism and economic growth

Location: News

G20 Leaders’ Summit at the end of the year to enhance tourism and economic growth

The upcoming Group of 20 (G20) Leaders’ Summit at the end of the year is anticipated to significantly enhance the tourism sector’s contribution to economic growth and job creation. 

This is according to the International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, who shared this perspective while responding to a parliamentary question about his department’s strategy to leverage South Africa’s G20 Presidency to create sustainable benefits for the economy, particularly for small businesses in townships and rural areas.

“By hosting G20 meetings across all provinces, South Africa aims to achieve a considerable economic boost, attracting tens of thousands of delegates and support staff from major global economies to provinces throughout its year-long Presidency,” he told Members of Parliament (MPs). 

South Africa assumed the Chair of the G20 on 1 December 2023, taking over from Brazil. 

The G20 consists of 19 countries, along with the European Union (EU) and the African Union (AU), which joined last year. 

This group brings together the world’s major and systemically important economies.

The Minister believes that this surge in tourism presents significant opportunities for South African provinces and cities to showcase their cultural heritage and tourism potential. 

According to Lamola, South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 is anticipated to be one of the largest national projects, requiring whole-of-government and society participation. 

From 1 December 2024 to 30 November 2025, South Africa will host well over 100 in-person meetings across the country. 

“Firstly, the G20 will boost South Africa’s tourism sector, increasing employment and allowing provinces to showcase their cultural treasures.”

The Minister highlighted that the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) reported that South Africa’s tourism sector employed 1.46 million people in 2023. 

This number is expected to increase to 1.7 million jobs soon, driven by a targeted initiative aimed at significantly boosting employment over the next five years. 

He also mentioned that WTTC statistics showed that tourism’s direct and indirect contribution to South Africa’s GDP was 8.2% in 2023, with expectations to rise to 8.8% in 2024.

In addition, it also allows for a demonstration of the nation’s advancements across multiple sectors.

According to Lamola, the G20 meetings are anticipated to generate considerable economic benefits, creating many direct and indirect jobs during and beyond this period. 

The Minister believes that Africa’s G20 Presidency offers an opportunity to promote inclusive growth, combat poverty, and ensure sustainable development. 

“Ultimately, the high-level deliverables and priorities identified for South Africa’s G20 Presidency will benefit South Africa at the national, continental, and global levels. 

“The G20 serves as a strategic platform for South Africa to lobby for policies aimed at advancing the three strategic priorities of the seventh administration.” 

These include driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental State.

In addition, South Africa’s second priority under its G20 Presidency is ensuring debt sustainability for developing economies. 

“In pursuing this, South Africa aims to see greater urgency in addressing the debt and solvency challenges many countries face, determining clear solutions to mobilise low-cost financing for development.

This approach will help reduce debt service costs for developing countries, including South Africa, thereby freeing up spending on essential services such as education, healthcare, and the infrastructure needed for economic development,” he told MPs.

Meanwhile, he said the nation seeks to leverage its G20 Presidency by promoting “harnessing critical minerals for inclusive growth and development.” 

“South Africa calls for a G20 framework on green industrialisation and investments to ensure progress towards a grand bargain that adds value to critical minerals, particularly near the source of extraction.” 

He believes that promoting the beneficiation and local value addition of resources at the source will result in a more additive rather than extractive relationship. 

“As mineral extraction accelerates to meet the energy transition needs, the countries and local communities endowed with these rich resources must be the primary beneficiaries,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 03/06/2025 - 10:42
 499 views

Read moreG20 Leaders’ Summit at the end of the year to enhance tourism and economic growth

Rhino poaching continues to decrease

Location: News

Rhino poaching continues to decrease

South Africa continues to see a downward trend in rhino poaching, with the 2024 statistics showing that 499 rhinos were poached in 2023, compared to 420 last year -- a decrease of 79.

“As we intensify the fight against wildlife poaching, it is encouraging to see that the work of the rangers, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment and other key role players is steadily gaining momentum,” the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, said on Thursday.

From January to December 2024, 420 rhinos were poached in South Africa, with 320 being killed on State properties and 100 on privately owned parks, reserves or farms. 

“The hardest hit province continues to be KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), which lost 232 rhinos. However, this is a notable decline from the 325 that were lost in 2023. 

“The significant reduction can largely be attributed to the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Dehorning Programme, which was implemented in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park from April to October 2024. 

“The World Wide Fund for Nature-funded programme had an immediate impact, with monthly poaching numbers dropping from 35 in April to fewer than 10 per month between May and September 2024,” the Minister said.

However, from October, the poaching syndicates adapted their tactics and began targeting dehorned rhinos, leading to a sudden spike in poaching incidents in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park.

In that month alone, the province lost 27 rhinos. 

“Fortunately, the provincial anti-rhino poaching team responded swiftly, intercepting the new syndicate and preventing further losses. The considerable efforts resulted in the province ultimately achieving a 67% decline in rhino poaching over the eight months. 

“Kruger National Park reported a total of 88 poached rhinos for 2024.  This is 10 animals more than the 78 that were reported for Kruger National Park (KNP) during the same period in 2023. 

“Up until the end of November 2024, rhino losses reported in the Kruger National Park stood at 67, but a significant escalation in rhino poaching activities was experienced during December 2024 and this has continued into January 2025,” George said.

A total of 21 rhinos were reported poached in KNP during December 2024 and a further 17 were reported poached during January 2025. 

The Mister said the escalation in rhino poaching in the Kruger National Park is of great concern.

Both the South African National Parks (SANParks) and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife continue to implement a number of actions and initiatives to counter the threats in the hotspot areas. 

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife is focused on implementing their Rhino Guardianship Strategy, which also played a role in reducing poaching in the province. This strategy was initiated in August 2024.

“The Ezemvelo Integrity Implementation Plan was completed and approved for implementation; integrity assessments of Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park staff, by an independent service provider, commenced, and a Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park Integrity Management Plan was completed and approved for implementation. Polygraphing of 55 Ezemvelo rhino reserve managers was completed and polygraphing of 58 field staff was completed.

“We continue to see some very good convictions in relation to rhino related cases, with lengthy direct imprisonment terms in respect of cases related to rhino poaching, assisting in the poaching of rhino and trafficking of rhino horns.

“However, the time that it takes to finalise many of these cases does remain a concern and unfortunately where the suspects are released on bail, the data tell us that a large number of them continue to commit crimes (often relating to rhino poaching and / or horn trafficking).

"Accordingly, expediting these cases through courts, as well as vigorously opposing bail will result in safeguarding more rhinos," the Minister explained.

National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking

“The sentencing of Francis Kipampa in January this year (who was sentenced to 18 years imprisonment, eight of which were suspended for five years), as one of the accused investigated in Project Blood Orange, sends out a strong message. Not only are we focusing on arresting those involved in poaching our rhino and trafficking the horn, but we are disrupting the higher up levels in the value chain. 

“This project is an excellent example of the integrated and multi-disciplinary approach to investigating organised crime linked to wildlife and ensuring that we target corruption, money laundering and the financial crimes associated with these activities,” he said.

The Minister said more of these focused investigations are needed, as government continues to implement the National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking. 

“As we move into the second year of implementation of this strategy, our partnerships within government, with authorities in transit and destination countries as well as with the private sector and non-governmental organisations remain critical. 

“We need to continue to integrate and focus our effort through our existing programmes and forums, including the Integrated Wildlife Zones Initiative, the work of the South African Anti-Money Laundering Integrated Taskforce Illegal Wildlife Trade Task Force and the various task teams residing under the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure Priority Committee on Wildlife Trafficking. 

“We remain committed to the fight against rhino poaching and I believe that a renewed strengthening of our agreements and operational protocols with key countries should be our focus for 2025,” the Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 03/06/2025 - 13:44
 183 views

Read moreRhino poaching continues to decrease

Incidence of occupational lung diseases remains high among SA miners

Location: News

Incidence of occupational lung diseases remains high among SA miners

The incidence of active pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and silicosis among gold miners remains high, but recent years have seen a slow decline in the rates of both diseases, according to a recent study. 

The findings from the study titled “Surveillance of Occupational Lung Diseases at Autopsy in South African Miners, 2021” suggest that this drop may be attributed to improved silica dust control measures, better living conditions, and the rollout of antiretroviral therapy (ARTs).

The study is based on the annual Pathology Computerised Pathology Automation System (PATHAUT) surveillance report. 

The Pathology Division of the National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOH), a division of the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), examines the cardiorespiratory organs of deceased miners and ex-miners. 

According to the lead author Thembi Mashele the research aimed to assess the prevalence of occupational respiratory diseases in miners at autopsy in 2021 and highlight key trends for South Africa. 

In 2021, 546 cardiorespiratory organs from deceased miners and former miners in South Africa were examined.

The autopsies were conducted on 303 (55.5%) Black miners, 241 (44.1%) White miners, and two (0.4%) mixed-race miners. 

The miners had an average age of 51.6 years, while White miners were slightly older than the Black miners. 

Most of the cases came from Gauteng, followed by the North West province. 

The deceased miners worked in various mining sectors, with the majority having experience in the gold mining industry.

Emphysema, active PTB, and silicosis were the most frequently occurring occupational diseases diagnosed at autopsy. 

The research revealed that the current active PTB rate was 137 cases per 1 000 autopsies, higher than the 1995 rate of 93 per 1 000. 

Rates of silicosis in Black and White miners remained above 200 per 1 000 as compared to 182 per 1 000 in 1995. 

Research revealed that the number of autopsies conducted at the NIOH has declined over the years, peaking in 1995 with 4 003 cases compared to 546 in 2021.

The study also found that there has been a drop in the number of miners coming to autopsy, which may reduce access to compensation for families. 

“This decrease also hinders the documentation of detailed findings for the surveillance and research of respiratory diseases associated with mining and environmental exposures.”

Mashele stated that asbestos mining ended in South Africa in 2002. However, due to the long latency of asbestos-related diseases, we can expect respiratory issues among miners exposed to asbestos for some time to come.

Meanwhile, environmental asbestos exposure-related cases will also be expected as asbestos remains in the environment and buildings.

The lead author stated that the government provides compensation to the families of deceased miners who have been diagnosed with certified compensable diseases. 

These include silicosis, coal worker’s pneumoconiosis, mixed dust fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, PTB, asbestos-related diseases, and progressive systemic sclerosis excluding skin-related conditions.

“Due to a decline in numbers seen over the years, we hope to raise awareness amongst healthcare professionals and the public about the surveillance of occupational respiratory diseases and the key trends observed since 1975.” 

Since 1975, demographic information, clinical causes of death, occupational histories, and pathological findings related to the cardiorespiratory organs of all examined miners and former miners have been documented in a computerised PATHAUT database. 

By the end of 2021, this database contained a total of 115 339 records.

The study has recommended a continued policy implementation to control dust in the mining industry – leading to reductions in the incidence of occupational respiratory diseases. 

Meanwhile, the researchers said the International Labour Organisation and the World Health Organisation’s Global Programme for the Elimination of Silicosis efforts to eradicate silicosis by 2030 should be complied with by the mining sector. 

In addition, to adhere to requirements, they suggest that employers should continuously perform air monitoring and submit regular reports to the Department of Mineral Resources.

“The ongoing systematic monitoring of trends will support the evaluation of interventions and the attribution of research in respiratory diseases confounded by smoking for compensation.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Thu, 03/06/2025 - 13:47
 128 views

Read moreIncidence of occupational lung diseases remains high among SA miners

Eden Sleep Innovation takes home first place at furniture awards 

Location: News

Eden Sleep Innovation takes home first place at furniture awards 

Eden Sleep Innovation, a bed-making company, is celebrating after winning first place in the manufacturing category at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition’s annual Furniture Design Competition.

The award was presented to the company for their innovative hybrid flatpack bed base design.

The creative design, known as Unibase, is engineered and manufactured locally and combines sustainable wood and recycled plastic. 

It is a compact ‘carry and go’ bed base that can easily fit into a car or taxi, as well as through doorways and staircases. It also saves up to 85 % in space throughout the supply chain, including warehousing and transportation.

The Managing Director of Eden Sleep Innovation, Aldrin John, said they are honoured to have won the award as a testament to the vision of the company.

“Our vision as a company is to revolutionise sleep and furniture solutions with innovative, high-quality, and affordable products. This annual initiative, led by the dtic, now in its 10th year, plays a crucial role in showcasing the capabilities of local young talent and seasoned professionals in the furniture industry. 

“We encourage more industry stakeholders to get involved in future initiatives, as they are essential for fostering innovation and growth within the South African furniture sector,” John said.

Chief Director of Agro-processing and Forestry Based Industries at the dtic, Ncumisa Mcata-Mhlauli, said the competition was established by the department to promote innovation in the development of new, competitive furniture products, and to contribute towards skills development initiatives.

READ | May the best furniture win

“The Furniture Industry Masterplan adopted in 2021 identifies the shortage of high-level skills in the furniture industry, such as design and skilled artisans in furniture manufacturing, as a major concern,” Mhlauli said in a statement on Wednesday.

She said the competition is an instrument the department is using to promote and encourage interest in the furniture industry and to entice upcoming designers into the industry. 

“We want to raise and nurture design capabilities in the country, raise the image ofthe  furniture manufacturing industry in South Africa, improve the industry’s competitiveness and reposition the industry for high value-added products,” she said. - SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 03/06/2025 - 10:47
 206 views

Read moreEden Sleep Innovation takes home first place at furniture awards 

SA hosts first G20 Tourism Working Group meeting 

Location: News

SA hosts first G20 Tourism Working Group meeting 

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has urged the G20 to find ways to use tourism to change the lives of communities around the world.

“As you convene during the first Tourism Working Group, I implore on all delegates to focus on how we can use tourism to change people’s lives, communities and the world,” she said in a video-recorded message.

The Minister was addressing the first G20 Tourism Working Group meeting held virtually from the Head Office of the Department of International Relations and Co-operation (DIRCO) in Pretoria.

Wednesday’s meeting was the first of a series of engagements that will take place throughout the year, ahead of the G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting in September 2025.

“South Africa is excited to welcome all G20 delegates, member states and organisations to our beautiful country and proud to host the G20 for the first time,” she said.

The Director-General at the department, Nkhumeleni Victor Vele, chaired the meeting which was attended by senior officials and experts in the tourism sector of the G20 countries, invited guest countries and international organisations.

At the meeting, delegates deliberated on and agreed to work on four priorities for the year namely:

• People-Centered Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Innovation to enhance Travel and Tourism Start-Ups and SMMEs,
• Tourism Financing and Investment to Enhance Equality and Promote Sustainable Development,
• Air Connectivity for Seamless Travel, and
• Enhanced Resilience for Inclusive, Sustainable Tourism Development.

The Tourism Working Group will exchange knowledge and best practices among the member countries with a view of crafting actionable deliverables. The group is among the 16 working groups of the G20 during South Africa’s Presidency focusing on solidarity, equality and sustainability. 

In its statement, the Department of Tourism said that as the first African country to preside over the G20 Presidency, South Africa is utilising its term to drive a developmental agenda to benefit the African continent.

Going forward, the following G20 Tourism Meetings are planned in South Africa:

• 2nd G20 Tourism Working Group Meeting from 11 to 13 May 2025 in KwaZulu Natal province.
• 3rd G20 Tourism Working Group Meeting from 10 to 11 September 2025 in Mpumalanga.
• G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting on 12 September 2025 in Mpumalanga.

The G20 economies represent around 85% of the global gross domestic product (GDP), over 75% of the global trade and about two-thirds of the world population. 

In 2023, the G20 welcomed 69% of all international tourists and accounted for 71% of tourism exports worldwide. In 2023 Tourism Direct GDP reached 3.1% of the G20 economies.

The department added that tourism plays a critical role in the global economy and is one of the vital economic sectors contributing significantly to socio-economic development but remains vulnerable to natural and manmade hazards. 

For many countries, the tourism economy is growing faster than most other economic sectors. With its extensive value chain and labour absorption capacity, it is acknowledged as a tool for inclusive economic development, playing a significant role in responding to socioeconomic challenges.

“Tourism is an important economic sector in Africa. In 2023 the continent’s tourism direct gross domestic product reached 85 US billion [dollars] representing 3.5% of the region’s GDP. This value is still below the pre-pandemic 94 US billion [dollars] reached in 2019 (4.3% share).”

The challenges facing the African travel and tourism sector include air connectivity, limited investments, financing for tourism development, positioning and marketing, social and environmental sustainability, as well as safety and security, among others.

South Africa’s tourism priorities for the 2025 G20 Presidency are aligned with the continental priorities as expressed in Agenda 2063 as well as with the core objectives contained in the UN Tourism Agenda for Africa – Tourism for Inclusive Growth, the strategic roadmap guiding the promotion of sustainable tourism development across the African continent.

The meeting also appreciated South Africa’s intention to build on the efforts and successes of the last three G20 Presidencies of the Global South and to champion Africa’s developmental agenda. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 03/06/2025 - 10:09
 116 views

Read moreSA hosts first G20 Tourism Working Group meeting