MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
Are you looking for ways to maximise the visual impact of your Google Display Ads in 2023? You’re in luck! This article outlines the latest innovations in ad placement, dynamic ads, responsive ads, video ads, interactivity, shopping ads, app ads, bidding strategies, and reporting & analysis. Get ready to take your Google Display Ads to …
The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (https://www.AfDB.org/en) have approved South Africa's Country Strategy Paper (CSP) 2023-2028. The Bank's interventions over the next five years will focus on two priority areas: improving governance and developing the private sector in southern Africa's largest and most populated country.
The CSP 2023-2028 aims to support the South African government's efforts to tackle its structural challenges, promote industrialization and establish a faster, more inclusive growth trajectory to reduce poverty for the long term. Its indicative operational program for 2023-2028, amounts to a total of $1,54 billion, comprising six sovereign operations totaling $887 million and seven non-sovereign operations totaling $654 million. The sovereign operations selectively support four focal sectors, relatively large projects aimed at delivering transformation at scale and impact.
In the first priority area, the African Development Bank will support efforts to improve economic governance and boost private investment to promote inclusive growth and create decent jobs. This will help broaden access to the main social and economic services, improve skills and employability, and increase resilience to external and climate shocks.
The Bank will also contribute to strengthening the governance framework to create favourable conditions for implementing infrastructure projects. Its support will help to reduce costs and contribute to the success of the private sector by helping the country to address regulatory barriers.
Among the expected outcomes are a reduction in the budget deficit of 4.2% of gross domestic product in 2022-2023 to 3 percent in 2027-2028. Energy production by the private sector should increase from 100 megawatts in 2023 to over a gigawatt in 2028, and 700 new small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) should have access to funding, including at least 210 owned by women and 70 by young people, by 2028.
In the second priority area – developing the private sector – the African Development Bank aims to improve access to high-quality infrastructure, boost productivity and strengthen competition to promote growth driven by the private sector and job creation through transformative projects. The Bank's interventions will focus on the energy, transport, water and sanitation sectors, as improving these kinds of infrastructure will contribute to reducing the cost of economic activity, increasing productivity and strengthening South Africa's competitiveness at all levels. These interventions will also enable women to access basic services and economic opportunities.
Finally, there will be an emphasis on protecting infrastructure from the effects of climate change to strengthen sustainability and resilience, a goal that will be at the forefront of all infrastructure projects.
The Bank's actions in the transport sector should help increase the market share of rail freight from 26.8 percent in 2023 to 28 percent in 2028 and complete the construction of 38 kilometres of tunnels by 2028.
On 30 June 2023, the African Development Bank Group's active portfolio in South Africa comprised 23 projects, with total funding of USD 7 billion.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
Media contact:
Alexis Adélé
Communication and External Relations Department
media@afdb.org
About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is the premier multilateral financing institution dedicated to Africa's development. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NSF). The AfDB has a field presence in 41 African countries, with an external office in Japan, and contributes to the economic development and social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: https://www.AfDB.org/en.
First Group Hotels and Resorts Announces ‘Blue Monday’ Sale First Group Hotels and Resorts, a leading name in the hospitality industry, is excited to announce the return of their highly anticipated ‘Blue Monday’ sale. This exclusive promotion offers incredible savings on accommodation for the upcoming holiday season. Say goodbye to Monday Blues and start planning …
KZN Premier calls for acceleration of critical infrastructure repairs
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has directed the provincial government to accelerate the urgent repairs of critical infrastructure, including homes, schools and roads, following the huge damage caused by thunderstorms and gale force winds over the weekend.
On Monday, Dube-Ncube, joined by Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, Human Settlements and Public Works MEC, Sipho Nkosi and uMkhanyakude District Municipality Mayor, Siphile Mdaka, led a provincial government oversight visit to the hard-hit area of Mtubatuba in the Inkosi Mtubatuba Local Municipality.
"Many schools and homes have been damaged and electricity infrastructure destroyed, leaving people homeless and in the dark. As the province, our budget alone will not suffice to cover the cost of this devastation,” Dube-Ncube said.
The Premier emphasised that all responsible officials must ensure classrooms are urgently cleared of debris where possible and temporary classroom structures are installed urgently where there is extensive damage to ensure that the commencement of matric examinations is not disrupted.
“I am deeply saddened by the devastating impact of the recent storm on these communities. We are actively devising plans to assist all those affected. We are engaging national government requesting support as we face this disaster,” the Premier said.
The death toll has risen to six people, with the discovery of another person struck by lightning in the Mpofana Local Municipality under Umgungundlovu District Municipality.
In Mtubatuba, five people, including a one-year-old child, lost their lives following structural collapse under heavy rains and strong winds.
The Premier affirmed the provincial government's commitment to aiding all grieving families with burial arrangements, with many having lost all their possessions during the storm.
“We have taken a decision that the provincial government will help families lay to rest their loved ones. Some families have indicated that they are unable to conduct these services on their own and we will make available the necessary support to make sure they are buried with dignity,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 10/25/2023 - 09:55
Are you navigating Google Search Ads in 2023? This guide will provide you with the information and strategies you need to understand the new features and maximise your return on investment. We’ll discuss the benefits of Google Search Ads, how to create effective ad copy, target customers, and optimise bidding. We’ll also look at how …
Are you looking to scale business growth and stay ahead of the competition in 2023? Strategic digital marketing outsourcing could be the answer. By leveraging the expertise of professionals, you can increase efficiency, reduce costs, and analyse data like never before. Discover the benefits of outsourcing, how to assess providers, and potential pitfalls to look …
Are you looking to take your Google Ads audits to the next level? You’re in the right place! With precision and performance in mind, this article will help you master Google Ads audits in 2023. We’ll cover the benefits of auditing, the auditing process, analysing performance, structuring accounts, keyword strategies, ad copy optimisation, tracking & …
Ensuring education for all
While challenges in the education sector remain, gains are being made to ensure learning for all.
The results of Census 2022 released recently, not only revealed that the country’s population grew to 62 million from 51.7 million in 2011, but also that the population remains relatively youthful. The data showed that 61.2% of the population is under the age of 35.
Of key interest of the data released is that of accomplishments in the education sector, given the country’s history of the exclusion of the majority.
Section 29 of South Africa’s Bill of Rights speaks to the fact that everyone has the right to basic education, including adult basic education; and to further education, which the state, through reasonable measures, must make progressively available and accessible.
Since South Africa attained democracy close to 30-years ago, government has put in place various measures to ensure access to education for all. These measures include the introduction of no-fee schools, school nutrition programmes and access to scholar transport.
The 2022 Census - which is the fourth to be conducted in democratic South Africa - notes that access to educational institutions is an important step to universal education, but that “the ultimate goal would be to keep children at school until completion of their education.”
According to the census, in 2022, 73.4% of the population aged 5-24 years were attending school, up from the 70.1% recorded in democratic South Africa’s first census in 1996.
The census plays an essential role in planning, policy formulation, evaluation and budget allocation of the country.
It also revealed that the percentage of those aged 20 years and older who completed secondary education more than doubled from 16.3% in 1996 to 37.6% in 2022.
This as the Department of Basic Education has acknowledged a slight rise in the number of those not attending educational institutions.
“We do acknowledge that there has been a slight increase in the number of 5-24-year-olds not attending an educational institution since the last census in 2011, of about 200 000. However, this is partly due to population growth (the number of 5-24-year-olds attending has increased by even more) and [is] partly due to earlier completion of schooling,” said the department’s spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga.
Additionally, the data showed that over 14.1 million of those aged 20 and above, completed secondary education in 2022, followed by 11.9 million who achieved some secondary education and 4.6 million who attained post-school education.
Mhlanga said the average age of youths successfully completing a National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification has been gradually lowering over the years.
“The result is an astonishing trend over time; the percentage of 22-25-year-olds attending education actually decreased from 16.4% in 2002 to 15.8% in 2021. Yet, over the same period, the percentage of 22-25-year-olds having completed grade 12 increased dramatically from 39% to 62%.”
He pointed out that the country’s school system used to be far more inefficient, with many children staying in school into their twenties but then exiting without having completed Grade 12.
“These days, children repeat less, are less likely to be in school into their twenties, but most important of all, they are much more likely to successfully complete a National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification,” he explained.
COVID-19 and challenges
He also touched on the impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic, which disrupted schooling.
“The Minister’s [Angie Motshekga] move to reopen schools in spite of the fear and criticism has now been fully vindicated. The spread of the virus was not affected by reopening schools, and despite worries about increased dropping out of school during the pandemic, the opposite happened; more candidates wrote and passed the matric exams in 2020, 2021 and 2022 than ever before.”
He added that the department is well aware of the challenges in the education sector.
“The quality of learning in the early grades, especially in foundational literacy and numeracy, remains a critical priority, and was negatively impacted by the pandemic.
“Another challenge, or rather opportunity, is to improve the quality of Early Childhood Development opportunities now that this responsibility has been shifted from the Department of Social Development to Basic Education.”
Census 2022 revealed that 3.4 million children aged 0–4 years participated in the Early Childhood Development (ECD) programme.
Last year, government moved the responsibility of the provision of the ECD programme from the Department of Social Development to the Department of Basic Education. In June, Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Basic Education received a progress report from the Department of Basic Education (DBE).
“We must acknowledge the challenges that exist in South African education, but all the trends in access, equity, quality and efficiency are overwhelmingly positive,” said Mhlanga.
Development
Reacting to the census results, Cabinet said the country has been developing over the course of the last 29 years.
This is in addition to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call to government departments, policy makers, researchers, civil society organisations and international organisations to use information from Census 2022 to collectively strive to improve people’s lives.
“Census 2022 has told us where we are making progress, but it has also laid bare the challenges that remain. It will be an invaluable tool in meeting those challenges. We now have the information we need to ensure that as we build this country, we leave no one behind,” the President said as he received the results of the count from Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke.
The population and housing census was conducted in February 2022 and provides comprehensive data on population size, demographic trends and other service delivery related information. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 14:50
Intimidation has prevented repairs to parks in Delft, Cape Town
Namibia is a beautiful and diverse country with a stable political and economic climate, making it a prime destination for property investment. South Africans are particularly drawn to Namibia due to its close proximity, similar culture, and affordable property prices. Schantal Teichmann, franchisee of Just Property Windhoek and Just Property Swakopmund, shares her insights into …
Human Rights Commission report slams failure of water supply in Limpopo
Cabinet calls on SA to support national sports teams
Cabinet has called on the nation to rally behind the national teams in their battle against England at the Cricket World Cup in India and the Rugby World Cup in France.
“On Saturday, 21 October 2023, two of South Africa’s biggest national teams will play against England in their respective World Cup matches. Our national teams continue to remind us of the best of South Africa and they are the best display of our unity as a nation with a single national identity – just being a South African.
“As the Proteas and Springboks enter the battle fields, it is our responsibility as the nation to let them feel the spirit and vibe of the resilient nation behind them,” Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday in Pretoria.
She was addressing the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.
Matric exams
Meanwhile, the National Senior Certificate matric exams will commence on 30 October 2023.
“Cabinet extends its well wishes to the Class of 2023 and all other learners who will be writing their final examinations. Cabinet calls on parents and guardians to support learners during this critical period in their academic journey,” Ntshavheni said.
Medium Term Budget Policy Statement
Cabinet has encouraged South Africans to tune into the 2023 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) on 1 November 2023.
The MTBPS details adjustments to the national budget and it is an important part of South Africa’s open and accountable budget process. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 10/19/2023 - 10:34
In a world driven by our constant connection to digital devices, a reliable power bank has become an essential companion. Whether you’re traveling, working on the go, or simply spending a day out, power banks ensure that you never run out of battery on your smartphone, tablet, or other gadgets. With a wide array of …
In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected and productive on the go is essential. For professionals, students, and anyone who relies on their laptop, a reliable power source is a must. This is where a laptop power bank comes to the rescue. These portable devices have revolutionized the way we use our laptops, ensuring that we’re …
Zikalala calls for efficient monitoring of projects
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Sihle Zikalala, has called on officials to work closely with contractors to ensure that projects are delivered on time and within budget.
Zikalala said failure to deliver projects will also cost not only the department but the individuals concerned as well.
Speaking at the latest Siyahlola engagement in the North West town of Matlosana, Zikalala said it is important for officials to be diligent in checking up on projects.
He said that projects do not just collapse on their own; the problem often arises if the project management approach is not tight from the side of the departmental project managers, which eventually lead to delays and problems.
“The delays are caused by the lack of coherent planning between the department and the client department.
“Our project managers are not hands on enough. Long explanations as to why projects are delayed for a long time, do not help. We must be hands on and the department must deliver as expected,” he said on Tuesday.
Zikalala indicated that all regional managers must be part of technical structures of the District Development Model (DDM) so as to know what is being planned and co-ordinated at all levels of government.
The Minister’s visit comes ahead of the second leg of the DDM Presidential Imbizo which will be held on Friday, 20 October at J.B. Marks Local Municipality in Dr. Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality.
Speaking at the same event, Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Executive Mayor, Nikiwe Num, who was accompanying the Minister, dedicated the district leadership to be the ears and eyes of the Minister on projects and how they were being implemented.
Num said as part of the DDM work, impromptu site visits will be conducted to see to it that projects do not stall and that all blockages are reported to the Minister.
She advised that no trial and error should be tolerated on sensitive projects like the Klerksdorp Correctional Centre.
The Klerksdorp Correctional Centre is a R94. 4million project. The spectrum of work that is being covered includes building related work as well as civil, electrical and mechanical work.
The project will also replace site sewer reticulation, cold water mains, internal warm water piping and irrigation water mains. The perimeter fencing is also being replaced. The project is expected to be finalised in 2025.
Meanwhile, the North West provincial government said the imbizo aims to create an interactive platform for President Cyril Ramaphosa, Ministers and the provincial leadership to engage with communities and find solutions to challenges of socio-economic concerns confronting them on a daily basis.
The provincial government said the imbizo is aimed at intensifying the provision of services, promoting social cohesion, and advancing developmental programmes aimed at creating economic opportunities for locals. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 10/18/2023 - 09:35
Introduction: Welcome to a world of luxurious comfort and exceptional hospitality where every detail matters. When it comes to providing an unforgettable experience to your guests, nothing speaks more volumes than the quality of Commercial bed linens in your lodge. Elevating your hospitality experience requires a partnership with top-notch suppliers who understand the importance of …
“Some of our colleagues have been brutally murdered while at the workplace”
Health Department to introduce new vaccines to improve existing coverage
As part of efforts to improve coverage of existing vaccines, the Department of Health is set to introduce new vaccines to be included in the routine expanded program on immunisation at a cost of R3.5 billion.
Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, made the announcement during a media briefing following a meeting with Health MECs held in Centurion on Thursday.
Phaahla noted that South Africa continues to experience outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, despite a strong childhood vaccination programme.
He said there is an ongoing need to improve coverage of existing vaccines and add new vaccines to the expanded program on immunisation schedule.
The Minister said the department is introducing a better packaged/derived vaccine that will prevent Whooping Cough, Tetanus and Diphtheria and reduce the chances of these conditions resurfacing within the communities.
“We are also introducing a combination vaccine of measles and rubella that will protect young girls, particularly during pregnancy which may lead to birth defects,” Phaahla said.
He said all these changes, recommended by the Ministerial-appointed National Advisory Group on Immunisation (NAGI), will be implemented with effect from January 2024.
Expansion of online birth registrations rollout
The Minister also announced that the Department of Home Affairs has made budget provision for the set-up and operational costs for the expansion of Online Registration System by an additional 91 health facilities during 2023/24 financial year.
This forms part of collaborative efforts between the Departments of Health and Home Affairs to ensure that all births are registered on time, through the Online Birth Registration system, which has been rolled in 161 health facilities with ability to issue birth certificates on the spot.
“These facilities will be allocated full-time Home Affairs officials to provide birth registration service during office hours. The establishment of the system in these new facilities will commence by the end of October 2023. This initiative will go a long way in providing early birth registration,” Phaahla said.
Integration of COVID-19 vaccinations into primary health services
Meanwhile, the Minister announced that the department has decided to make a number of changes related to COVID-19 vaccinations, which include transitioning from a mass vaccination campaign to integrate vaccination into routine primary health care services.
This is in line with World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations.
Phaahla said the current available Pfizer vaccine stock purchased as part of the COVID-19 national vaccination rollout will expire at the end of October 2023, while the J&J vaccine doses will expire at the end of February 2024.
The EVDS (Electronic Vaccination Data System) will continue to record all COVID-19 vaccinations until 29 February 2024, thereafter those vaccinated will receive a paper-record of vaccination, but they will still be able to download vaccination certificates as long as they have at least one vaccination code.
“The department plans to procure vaccines for administration in the public sector and will continue to work with the private sector to facilitate availability of vaccines. All restrictions limiting procurement of vaccines by private sector providers will be lifted,” Phaahla explained.
He added that the investigation and causality assessment of COVID-19 vaccination-related Adverse Events Following Immunisation (AEFIs) will continue and mechanisms for processing No Fault Compensation Scheme claims will be retained.
Phaahla also gave an update on various issues affecting the public health system, including cost containment measures; audit outcomes and performance against targets; medico-legal claims, among others. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 10:44
A groundbreaking transformation is underway in South Africa’s renewable energy sector, led by the solar marketplace pioneer Hohm Energy. Today, they have unveiled their commitment to providing the most cost-effective subscriptions for homes across the nation. Through a strategic partnership with Glint, Hohm Energy will offer solar subscription plans starting at an incredibly low monthly …
While plans for temporary relocation of 891 households occupying the Central Line are making progress, thousands of households remain on the railway
“If the same findings are coming through, how effective are these enforcement powers of the Auditor-General?”
South Africa, with its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cities, has always been a sought-after destination for both tourists and potential homeowners. The real estate market here offers a plethora of options, from luxurious villas to cozy apartments. If you’re in the market for an apartment for sale in South Africa, check here you’re …
When it comes to wooden structures, exceptional craftsmanship, quality materials, and convenience are the hallmarks of a trusted provider. Wendy’s Online, a name synonymous with excellence, delivers all these attributes and more. Learn more. Let’s explore what makes Wendy’s Online the go-to choice for those seeking top-tier wooden constructions: Exceptional Craftsmanship: Where Art Meets …
Government could face court action for failing in its constitutional duty