MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
All weddings are unique in their own way but everyone wants theirs to be the most memorable of them all! Nicola Woodgate, Weddings Sales Executive at ANEW Hotels & Resorts, shares some inspiration for the current top wedding trends to ensure that your wedding is fresh, modern and innovative: Live wedding painting Live wedding painting …
Satafrika is wild, bro. We’ve mastered the art of turning lemons into lemonade—or rather, loadshedding into load-reduction. We are built for resistance and sometimes, sticking it out means treating yourself. With warmer days and cooler evenings being the modus operandi, there’s no better time for ama-get-together with iskeem sakho, family and loved ones. Introducing the …
Chikunga pays tribute to Thabiso Sikwane and Jessica Mbangeni
Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has lauded the late broadcaster Thabiso Sikwane and Dr Bishop Jessica Mbangeni’s roles as advocates for women empowerment.
The renowned media broadcaster, Thabiso Sikwane, and praise singer, musician and church Bishop, Jessica Mbangeni, both passed away on Saturday, adding to the list of personalities the country recently lost during Women's Month.
Paying tribute, Chikunga said Sikwane and Mbangeni were the epitome of hope to many women and girls in South Africa, particularly those in the creative and art sector.
“We drop our heads and spears to the ground at the two women who have contributed to the development and transformation of art by carrying the message of socio-economic empowerment of women and girls to end gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) to the world.
“They have served as role models, showing women and girls that they too can express themselves and make an impact by breaking barriers through achieving recognition for future generations and inspiring them to be at the forefront of social change,” Chikunga said.
She noted that through mediums including radio music, literature, visual arts and performance, these women made a significant impact, by challenging norms, and inspiring action on social issues.
“We should continue to advocate and mainstream for socio-economic empowerment of women and girls through government programs such as the Young Creatives Programme that encourage women and youth to get involved in community activism to foster social cohesion, nation-building, and patriotism by investing in the creative economy to end poverty among women and girls,” Chikunga said.
The Minister extended her sincere condolences to the Sikwane and Mbangeni families. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 09/03/2024 - 10:12
LG Electronics South Africa (www.LG.com/global/) recently took a giant leap into the future of shopping with their online store which will forever change how South Africans buy their favourite tech. This is not just another e-commerce site—it is a bold move, changing the digital landscape and marking a new chapter in LG's South African journey, says Mr Jinkook Kang, Subsidiary President at LG Electronics South Africa.
“Now live at LG.com/za, our online store brings LG's innovative gadgets straight to your fingertips, showcasing our unwavering commitment to putting customers first in ways never before seen in the local market.”
As only the third market in the Middle East and Africa region to launch a brand-specific online store, LG South Africa is pioneering a new era of digital retail excellence. This achievement not only shows LG's status as a technology leader but also shows its commitment to meeting the changing needs of South African consumers.
Mr Kang shared his excitement about the launch: “We did not just open an online store; we are unlocking a portal to the future of retail in South Africa. This platform represents a fusion of LG's pioneering technology with the vibrant spirit of South African consumers. It's more than a shopping destination—it's a digital playground where innovation meets aspiration, where every click brings you closer to experiencing the extraordinary.”
The new e-commerce hub is a treasure trove of LG's most sought-after products, from breathtaking OLED and QNED televisions that redefine visual experiences to futuristic home appliances that transform everyday tasks into moments of joy. Tech enthusiasts can explore an array of state-of-the-art monitors, while eco-conscious shoppers will delight in the energy-efficient air conditioning units.
To celebrate this digital milestone, LG is rolling out the red carpet with an irresistible offer which is music to every shopper's ears. From August 27 to September 30, 2024, if you make an online purchase of R7,000 or more, LG will give you a free LG XBOOM XG2T speaker (http://apo-opa.co/4g5wpAv), valued at R1,199. This limited-time offer is exclusively available through the online store, giving customers more reason to explore LG's digital shop.
But the excitement does not stop there. The company's renowned Premium Service is available for select items bought through the online store. This white-glove treatment includes complimentary delivery, expert installation, and dedicated ongoing support, ensuring that every LG product becomes an integral part of your lifestyle with ease.
LG has created a variety of payment options to meet the different needs of South African consumers. From interest-free instalments to credit alternatives, LG is making premium technology more accessible than ever before.
“We're not just selling products; we're crafting experiences that resonate with the South African spirit,” says Mr. Kang. “Our online store is a digital embodiment of our ‘Life's Good' philosophy—a place where technology enhances life, where innovation meets inspiration, and where every purchase is a step towards a brighter, more connected future.”
As LG Electronics South Africa starts a new digital journey, the company remains committed to its core values of innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. The online store is more than just a way to sell things. It shows that LG cares about making life better for every South African through easy-to-use, innovative technology.
“This launch is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter,” Mr. Kang concludes. “We're not just reimagining retail; we're redefining the very essence of how South Africans interact with technology. Every click, purchase, and unboxing is a chance to experience something amazing. Welcome to the future of shopping—welcome to the LG online store!”
Visit LG.com/za to explore LG's new online store and experience the future of electronics shopping.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of LG Electronics.
Downsizing and retirement often go together, and while some might choose a smaller home or maisonette, apartments in secure estates are becoming a popular option for active seniors. This is particularly true for those who want to live on the coast while also enjoying the freedom to travel when they want. “Previously, apartment living in …
Just a year after the official sod-turning ceremony in 2023, the first residents of the eco-focused Serenity Hills estate on the KZN South Coast have taken up residence. This is a significant milestone for the vibrant coastal estate, with momentum set to increase as more investors discover this unique residential gem near Margate. “Handing over …
In today’s digital landscape, photography is not just a hobby but a potential business opportunity. With advanced smartphone cameras, capturing breathtaking images has never been easier. But how do you translate those striking shots into a profitable venture? For photography enthusiasts, there are multiple avenues to explore, from showcasing your work online to selling physical …
In honour of Women’s Month, an all-female creative team at McCann Joburg, in partnership with L’Oréal Paris South Africa, embarked on an inspiring journey, to create a content series that delves deeper into the concept of self-worth, as viewed through the lens of South African women. The content series features five popular South African female …
Survey reveals Gauteng has the third-lowest HIV prevalence
Compared to other provinces, Gauteng had the third-lowest HIV prevalence at 11.9% in 2022 which is slightly lower than the 12.1% reported in 2017.
This translates to an estimated 1 720 000 people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Gauteng in 2022, representing an insignificant 0.2% decline from the 1 780 000 reported in 2017.
This is according to the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), which released the key findings of the Sixth South African HIV Prevalence, Incidence, and Behaviour Survey (SABSSM VI) for Gauteng on Thursday.
The findings also showed that, in 2022, HIV prevalence in the province was disproportionately higher among those aged 25 to 49 (20.0%), for females (24.9%) and males (14.1%).
HIV prevalence was also higher among those residing in rural formal or farm areas (12.7%).
According to the overall principal investigator of the study, the HSRC’s Professor Khangelani Zuma, the HIV prevalence peaked at 32.2% among those who are 50 to 54 years old in 2022.
In 2017, the prevalence peak was in a younger age group, at 31.9% among those aged 35 to 39.
“There was a decrease in HIV prevalence in 2022 among all age groups younger than 40 years compared to 2017. It is, however, concerning that even though the epidemic is ageing, there seems to be a possibility of new infections still happening in the older age groups,” Zuma noted.
The data presented are for five priority districts of Gauteng, namely the City of Tshwane, the City of Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, Sedibeng and West Rand.
Among the five districts, the highest HIV prevalence was found in Sedibeng (13.2%).
The SABSSM VI survey, conducted between 2022 and 2023, aimed to maintain surveillance of HIV infection and behaviours in South Africa, evaluate the progress of the South African national HIV and AIDS, STI and TB Strategic Plan, and monitor HIV indicators for national and international reporting.
The survey’s key objectives included estimating HIV prevalence and incidence, viral load suppression, and exposure to HIV-related services among adults and children.
Antiretroviral treatment
The data also shows that Gauteng’s antiretroviral treatment (ART) coverage increased to 73.4% in 2022 from 56% in 2017.
The ART coverage translates to an estimated 1 210 000 PLHIV in the province receiving treatment in 2022.
ART use among all PLHIV in the province was lowest among those aged 15 to 49 (72.4%) compared to other age groups.
“ART use in Gauteng was consistently lower among males compared to females in all the age groups, however, it was lowest in the West Rand (73.4%) and Ekurhuleni (73.6%) districts.”
Knowledge of HIV status
Zuma expressed concern that PLHIV aged between 25 and 49, which accounts for most PLHIV in Gauteng who are unaware of their HIV status (61.8%), are aware of their HIV status but not on ART (64.6%), and ART but not virally suppressed (64.6%).
He also noted that adolescents and youth aged from 15 to 24 contribute disproportionally to gaps in treatment, accounting for just 6.8% of all PLHIV.
However, 20% of those unaware of their HIV status, 13.4% of those aware of their HIV status but not on ART, and 12.1% of those on ART but not virally suppressed.
According to the study, females aged 15 to 24 account for the minority of all females living with HIV (6.4%), but a relatively larger proportion of those who do not know their status (15.2%), not on ART (13.4%), and ART but not virally suppressed (12.1%).
Males aged 15 to 24 years account for just 7.8% of all males living with HIV, but 27.3% of those unaware of their HIV status, 19.4% of those who are aware but not on ART, and 18.9% of those who are on ART but not virally suppressed.
The survey further revealed that, among all districts, Ekurhuleni accounts for just 30.6% of all PLHIV, but 47.4% of all PLHIV do not know their status.
Sexual debut
Regarding the key drivers of the HIV pandemic, Zuma noted that there was a change in the proportion of Gauteng adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 who reported having sex before the age of 15 in 2017 (14.8%) compared to 2022 (13.2%).
In 2022, the percentage of adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 who had their sexual debut before the age of 15 was higher among males (17.8%) than females (7.9%).
The prevalence was lowest in Ekurhuleni (9.5%) and highest in West Rand (18.1%), followed by the City of Johannesburg (14.1%).
Multiple sexual partners
The survey revealed that in Gauteng, 7.8% of people 15 years and older reported having multiple sexual partners in 2022 compared to 12.8% in 2017.
The proportion of people aged 15 years and older who reported having multiple sexual partners was four-fold higher among males (12.3%) compared to females (3.1%), and two-fold higher among those aged 15 to 24 (17.1%) compared to those aged 15 to 49 (8.6%).
The proportion who reported having multiple sexual partners was highest in the City of Tshwane (13.7%) and lowest in West Rand (2.9%).
Condom use
Regarding condom use, the survey found that, in Gauteng, 30.3% reported using a condom with the most recent sexual partner in 2022 compared to 36.3% in 2017, representing a decline of six percentage points.
Condom use with the most recent sexual partner among people 15 years and older was lower among those aged between 25 and 49 years (29.6%) compared to other age groups, females compared to males (27.6% versus 32.9%), and those residing in rural formal, or farm areas (18.9%) compared to other localities.
Condom use with the most recent sexual partner among people aged 15 years and older ranged from 24.7% in the City of Tshwane to 37.9% in West Rand.
In Gauteng, a higher proportion (53.8%) also reported that they never used a condom with their most recent sexual partner. Only 4.7% reported that they used a condom almost every time.
Consistent condom use with the most recent sexual partner among people 15 years in the province was higher among adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 (32.1%) compared to those aged 25 to 49 (19.3%).
However, over 70% of those aged 25 to 49 years reported only using a condom sometimes or never.
Consistent condom use with the most recent sexual partner among people aged 15 and older was highest in Sedibeng (23.4%) and lowest in the City of Tshwane (17%).
“We also recommend enhancing prevention efforts targeted at groups that are disproportionately affected by the drivers of HIV infection, such as women and young people,” concluded Professor Zuma. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/29/2024 - 12:40
Introduction In an era where customer service can make or break a business, staying accessible to your customers around the clock is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity. A 24/7 answering service allows businesses to achieve this by ensuring they never miss a call, regardless of the time or day. This blog explores the strategic …
Gender dynamics and South African societal roles can hinder women’s healthcare as one-in-three women suffer from urinary incontinence, and one-in-four have pelvic floor disorders, conditions often overlooked, leaving many to suffer in silence. Additionally, CANSA reports breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers as the top three cancers affecting women. “At Urology Hospital we aim to dispel …
Get ready for an electrifying return of the Kat Gilardi and Manila von Teez Drag Show at Bay Harbour Market on 20 August 2024! Fresh off their appearance on the Showmax series Beaulah: Queens van die Kaap. Kat and Manila’s preparation for this show is nothing short of meticulous. Every element, from the song choices …
Gauteng’s Murray Park Library to get a new lease on life
The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) has commenced with the construction of the long-awaited upgrades to the Murray Park Library, located in Malvern, Johannesburg.
The JDA has commenced with the construction on behalf of the City of Johannesburg's Community Development Department.
First opened in 1957, Murray Park Library has been a cornerstone of knowledge and community engagement for over six decades.
Recognising its importance as a hub for education and enrichment, the JDA spearheads a comprehensive redevelopment project to modernise and revitalise the beloved institution.
“The upgrade of Murray Park Library is part of the Inner City Eastern Gateway Urban Development Framework, reflecting the City's commitment to enhancing infrastructure and services for its residents.
Upon completion, the renovated library will serve as a beacon of learning and culture for Malvern and surrounding communities,” said the agency in a statement.
JDA Executive Manager for Project Implementation Siyabonga Genu said the agency is excited about the upgrades.
“This project underscores our commitment to creating inclusive spaces that foster lifelong learning, cultural enrichment, and community cohesion.
“Through thoughtful design and meticulous planning, we aim to deliver a modern, accessible library facility that will be a source of pride for generations to come," he said.
Key features of the upgrade
The upgrade project will be done in two phases, with phase one focusing on foundational elements and phase two concentrating on constructing the two-story library structure.
Phase 1, scheduled for implementation in the 2024/2025 financial year, encompasses critical groundwork such as site clearance, construction of retaining walls, and foundational preparations.
Phase 2 will see the construction of the state-of-the-art library facility, spanning approximately 2000m². The ground floor will feature a general library space, a study area for children, meeting rooms, study centres, and essential amenities.
The first floor will accommodate a teenage section, activity centre, e-learning area, and additional facilities. The exterior enhancements will include landscaping, paving, lighting, and parking facilities.
Moreover, the upgrade project emphasises sustainability and accessibility, with provisions for solar panels, upgraded power supply capacity, and facilities for persons with disabilities.
Community impact
According to the JDA, the upgraded Murray Park Library will serve as a dynamic community resource, offering world-class library and information services to residents of all ages.
From providing access to literature and educational resources to fostering a vibrant space for cultural exchange and lifelong learning, the new library will enrich the lives of a diverse population. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 09:57
Eskom launches pilot electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Midrand
Eskom has officially launched its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at the Eskom Academy of Learning (EAL) in Midrand, Gauteng.
“This milestone marks a significant step in Eskom Distribution’s commitment to supporting the growth of the eMobility sector in South Africa and contributing to the country’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions,” the state-owned power utility said.
According to Eskom, the pilot project includes the procurement of 20 EVs ranging from light delivery vehicles to light trucks for operational use.
The pilot project also involves the installation of 10 charging stations at five Eskom sites across the country.
The other sites are Brackenfell in Cape Town, Mkondeni in Pietermaritzburg, Tlhabane Customer Network Centre (CNC) in Rustenburg and Marathon CNC in Mbombela.
These sites will serve as the foundation for Eskom Distribution’s long-term strategy to electrify its entire fleet by 2040.
“We continue to focus on our long-term strategy to deliver a competitive, sustainable, and future-proof Eskom to ensure energy security, growth, and long-term sustainability for the benefit of South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa,” said General Manager in the Office of the Eskom Group Executive for Distribution, Gabriel Kgabo.
By investing in eMobility and the charging infrastructure needed for EVs, Kgabo said Eskom was not only reducing its carbon footprint but also stimulating the local economy and creating new growth opportunities.
Kgabo highlighted Eskom’s support of the government to align South Africa with the global EV ecosystem market.
Key initiatives include the EV White Paper released by the Department of Trade Industry and Competition in December 2023 and the incentives announced by the National Treasury to encourage the local production of EVs from 2026.
Pilot Project Overview
The recently installed charging stations, in collaboration with Gridcars, feature state-of-the-art direct current fast chargers (60kW) and dual alternating current (AC) chargers (22kW). They are optimised for overnight charging of fleet vehicles and daytime workplace charging for employees and visitors.
The power utility believes this initiative will serve as a blueprint for the future rollout of EVs across Eskom’s entire fleet.
“It is one of the levers that will steer the organisation towards net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and will also contribute to stimulating the local EV market.
“The successful launch of this infrastructure is a result of the dedicated efforts of the project team within Eskom. Their work is laying the groundwork for a future where electric vehicles play a central role in South Africa’s transportation landscape.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 08/23/2024 - 10:00
Innovation is the cornerstone of success in the restaurant industry, where staying ahead of trends and continually improving offerings is vital. Visionary Chef Dario de Angeli, renowned for his innovative culinary approach, shares insights drawn from years of experience in conceptualising and managing successful dining establishments, and now a boutique hotel. He explores the importance …
Gauteng government offers opportunities for art sector
The deadline is fast approaching for Gauteng-based fashion designers, live music artists and bands to apply for market access opportunities being availed by the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation.
Fashion designers have until this Sunday, 25 August, to apply for a chance to be part of three Gauteng fashion designers to participate and showcase their work in the Fashion and Textile Trade Fair, taking place in Cape Town from 07-13 September 2024.
Applicants are required to submit a company profile, company registration documents, ID copy, clear images of merchandise and a list of international fashion shows participated in.
Documents should be submitted to Dikeledi.chakane@gauteng.gov.za.
Meanwhile, an opportunity has been availed for unrecorded Live Music Artists and Bands to showcase their talent at popular tourist venues and elsewhere in Gauteng, including recording their own EP and receiving professional coaching.
Preference will be given to artists based in Townships, Informal Settlements and Hostel (TISH) areas.
The applicants have until Wednesday, 28 August 2024 to submit their applications to Basetsana.mabele@gauteng.gov.za. Applications should be submitted using the Google form provided at https://forms.gle/3HrVxA2HP8Ev99QP8
Only Gauteng-based fashion Designers and Live Music Bands should apply for the two opportunities. Further communication will be done with shortlisted candidates. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 08/23/2024 - 09:20
Africa Avant Garde airs on CNN International on Saturday 17th August 2024 at 05:30 WAT In the latest episode of Africa Avant Garde, CNN dives into the two-way relationship between art and philanthropy in Africa, seeing how one benefits the other. The art patron, Hakeem Adedeji, explains why art philanthropy is important, “Art is a …
The Backbone of the Catering Industry In the bustling regions of Johannesburg and Gauteng, the catering industry relies heavily on a network of wholesale suppliers and food manufacturing companies. These suppliers are the unsung heroes, providing the essential ingredients that fuel the culinary creations we enjoy at various events. Catering Wholesale Suppliers: The Cornerstone …
It is generally agreed that the fastest way to stop the continued and almost methodical decimation of our youth is to get them employed. But all the data proves that not enough has been done and things are getting worse. The woman-run nonprofit company, Goedverwacht Awakens, has noted the drastic lack of jobs for those …
AI is becoming a new member of society according to results from a new Kaspersky (www.Kaspersky.co.za) survey titled ‘Excitement, Superstition and great Insecurity – How global Consumers engage with the Digital World' (https://apo-opa.co/3WRj99J). The study also found that today artificial intelligence is taking on new roles in fields where it can succeed and be trusted by humans.
Based on statistics from Similarweb (https://apo-opa.co/46WpO7u), ChatGPT, one of the world's most popular chatbots, garnered 153 million visits in the first month after its launch in November 2022, and peaked at 2 billion visits in April 2024. In light of the rapid advancements in AI, Kaspersky has conducted an in-depth study to explore current levels of confidence in AI. The study examines its roles from management positions in the workplace to assisting with significant life decisions.
According to the study, respondents see AI as their team member at work, and a manager – 34% globally believe AI can be a fairer boss than a human being because of its impartiality. For respondents from the Middle East, Turkiye and Africa (META) region this statistic is 40%. In South Africa it is 42%.
Another area where AI can play an active role is education. 47% of respondents globally, 60% in the META region and 68% in South Africa foresee children being taught through virtual experience and Metaverses in the near future.
Half (50%) of all consumers globally, 53% in the META region and 64% in South Africa believe that AI has already become an unavoidable part of their lives, with 43%, 46% and 52% respectively having a positive outlook on its potential to bring about many exciting opportunities and improve the future for everyone. A large portion of respondents admit that AI has capabilities in creative areas – 62% globally, 59% in the META region and 53% in South Africa believe AI is a credible producer of works of art.
AI can also be considered a reliable companion and an assistant in everyday life. More than half of respondents (57%) globally, 67% in the META region and 60% in South Africa would like to use AI to run their daily lives more efficiently.
48% of those surveyed globally, 60% in the META region and 56% in South Africa are ready to use an AI chatbot to have conversation online - 31%, 38% and 33% respectively would use it to help them to find the right partner on a dating app. In fact, 48% globally, 58% in the META region and 63% in South Africa believe that human relationships will change because of the impact of AI if virtual characters start replacing real-life partners.
“We are witnessing the growing adoption of AI as a valuable tool, assisting people in diverse areas. Beyond traditional applications, such as processing and analysing data, AI is being entrusted with more intriguing personal roles, including romance, education, and work. As AI technologies continue to evolve, their potential to drive innovation and improve human experiences becomes even more profound. However, this advancement also brings unexpected risks and sophisticated threats, ranging from overreliance — putting too much trust in AI advice — to AI-generated phishing, deepfakes and identity theft. These are the challenges that we need to address across multiple levels,” comments Vladislav Tushkanov, Machine Learning Technology Research Group Manager at Kaspersky.
In order to protect users against AI-driven threats, Kaspersky suggests:
The full Kaspersky report ‘Excitement, Superstition and great Insecurity – How global Consumers engage with the Digital World' is available via this link (https://apo-opa.co/3WRj99J).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kaspersky.
About the survey:
In June 2024, Kaspersky commissioned Arlington Research to conduct an online survey of 10,000 respondents to explore the respondents' attitude towards current digital superstitions, AI role in human's life and topic of digital immortality. The sample included 1,000 respondents from each of the UK, Germany and France, and 500 in Spain, Italy, Portugal, Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Kazakhstan, India, China, Indonesia, Turkiye, KSA, UAE, and South Africa.
About Kaspersky:
Kaspersky is a global cybersecurity and digital privacy company founded in 1997. With over a billion devices protected to date from emerging cyberthreats and targeted attacks, Kaspersky's deep threat intelligence and security expertise is constantly transforming into innovative solutions and services to protect businesses, critical infrastructure, governments and consumers around the globe. The company's comprehensive security portfolio includes leading endpoint protection, specialized security products and services, as well as Cyber Immune solutions to fight sophisticated and evolving digital threats. We help over 200,000 corporate clients protect what matters most to them. Learn more at www.Kaspersky.co.za.
Art enthusiasts and collectors, mark your calendars for an exclusive Paint Jamming Evening hosted by Art Trader and Red Gallery on August 22nd. This unique event, set against the vibrant backdrop of Cape Town’s RED GALLERY, promises an immersive experience filled with creativity, gourmet dining, and live music. From 18:00 PM to 21:00 PM, guests …
Let’s harness improved confidence to drive inclusive growth - President
President Cyril Ramaphosa says government remains committed to collaborating with business, labour unions, and other social partners to advance the structural reforms necessary for fostering inclusive economic growth and creating jobs.
The President said this in his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday.
“We cannot rebuild our country unless all South Africans work together. We will continue to work with business, labour and other social partners to drive the structural reform process that will boost inclusive economic growth and jobs.
“There is indeed an air of optimism in our country. Let us harness this confidence and goodwill to increase the momentum of our shared efforts to build and strengthen our economy,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa highlighted that over the last few months, the country has seen a growing confidence among investors, business and citizens over the prospects of the economy.
The latest Business Confidence Index published by the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) points to an increase in business confidence since the elections in May.
The President noted that this sentiment is evident in the Johannesburg Stock Exchange’s All-Share Price Index, which increased by about 8% from the end of May to the end of July 2024.
“This is welcome news, particularly in light of the most recent employment figures released by Statistics South Africa, which show that unemployment remains extremely high at 33.5%.
“Business confidence is so important to our efforts to create jobs because it signals an improved business environment and encourages new investment. Greater investment in the economy enables faster growth and more job opportunities,” he said.
For several years, the country has experienced low levels of business confidence, having been negatively affected by the prolonged electricity crisis, State capture, concerns about corruption, the decline of State-owned enterprises and the manner in which law enforcement agencies had been compromised.
President Ramaphosa further reflected that investors have also been concerned about obstacles to growth, such as delays in the release of broadband spectrum, inefficiencies in ports and rail operations, and regulations that have slowed down licensing processes.
The President lauded the successful holding of the national and provincial elections in May and the formation of the Government of National Unity, both of which have had a positive effect on business confidence.
He said the progress that has been recorded in the reform process thus far has also contributed to the improved sentiment.
Rooting out corruption
To create a conducive environment, the President said government has shown its determination to tackle corruption.
Bodies like the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the Hawks have brought several high-profile cases to trial. The permanent establishment of the NPA’s Investigating Directorate has also given further impetus to the fight against corruption.
Crime is also being tackled. Across the country, the President said, initiatives such as Operation Shanela have upped the war on crime.
“We are clamping down on illicit mining operations. Criminal syndicates involved in cable theft and extortion at construction sites are being dealt with.
“Through a concerted effort from all stakeholders, we have confronted the electricity crisis. We have now had more than 140 consecutive days without load shedding. There has been a huge increase in new power generation capacity.
“Investors have seen the growth opportunities in the far-reaching energy reforms we are undertaking. Just last week, I signed into law the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act, which will enable the establishment of a competitive electricity market,” the President said.
The progress made in electricity provision, he said, gives confidence that the country can overcome the problems on the freight rail lines and ports.
Transnet’s recovery plan is showing progress, with the private sector providing significant technical support and resources to Transnet Freight Rail and Port Terminals.
In Gauteng, the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, newly launched state-of-the-art passenger trains are now operating along refurbished and reopened rail corridors, offering commuters faster and more affordable transportation options.
This development is expected to significantly reduce commuting times and costs for users.
Reforms and investment
Additionally, government has implemented changes to immigration regulations to attract skilled professionals, investment and tourists to South Africa.
Approval processes for water use licences and energy projects have been expedited, and the release of broadband spectrum aims to unlock the full potential of the telecommunications sector.
These reforms are set to drive economic growth and enhance the country’s global competitiveness.
The country is also making progress on infrastructure investment. According to Nedbank’s Capital Expenditure Project Listing, the value of fixed investment project announcements in the first half of this year rose to approximately R800 billion.
This was up sharply from just over R190 billion in 2023.
The public sector accounts for most of these projects in areas such as energy, transportation, health facility upgrades, roads and housing.
“As government, we held a meeting with business leaders last week. Business expressed optimism about the recovery and growth of our economy. They committed themselves to a new era of partnership with government. We agreed on key actions we must now take to build on the progress that has already been made,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 08/19/2024 - 11:08
[Marietta, GA] – Minbro Marietta is excited to announce the launch of its innovative coworking space in Marietta GA, designed for professionals and businesses seeking flexible, modern workspace options. Situated in a prime location, this premium facility caters to those in need of office space in Marietta or a versatile Marietta office space for rent. …
Solo trips are on the rise as travellers opt for ‘alone time’ Ever entertained the idea of a solo holiday? Sure, it might not be everyone’s idea of the perfect getaway, but ABTA’s Holiday Habits report reveals a definite shift in the solo direction – one in six people (15%) are now choosing to go …