MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
12 September 2023, Johannesburg – The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (RF) (Pty) Ltd (FEM) will be hosting its annual Safetember Conference this month. FEM is a mutual insurer that provides workmen’s compensation cover to the construction industry. The conference is part of a broader “Safetember” campaign that uses the month of September to shine …
SA, Vietnam to increase, diversify trade
It is important to increase and diversify South African exports to Vietnam in order to cover more value added items, says Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina.
The Deputy Minister was addressing a roundtable discussion on Vietnam-South Africa Economic Cooperation on the occasion of 30 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries in Pretoria on Thursday.
The roundtable interrogated economic areas of mutual interest for a shared future and was attended by Vietnamese officials and businesses in various fields such as energy, coal, pharmaceuticals, agriculture products, seafood and logistics, among others.
The session provided an opportunity for South African and Vietnamese business to match up investment and import-export opportunities.
Gina said trade between the two countries was slowly growing and mostly in favour of Vietnam.
Bilateral trade between South Africa and Vietnam was valued at R23.8 billion in 2022, up from R16 billion in 2018.
The trade balance amounted to R13.3 billion in favour of Vietnam.
Against this background, Gina said, it was important to increase and diversify exports to cover more value added items.
South Africa’s major exports product include maize that accounted for 53% of total SA exports to Vietnam.
South Africa has identified products with export potential such as citrus, apples, steel and aluminium, leathers, polypropylene, meat products, among other products.
“South Africa's basket of imports from Vietnam is dominated by manufactured products such as telephone sets (36.6%), footwear (10.9%), printing machinery (3.9%), SA imports from Vietnam are a bit diversified as compared to SA exports to Vietnam,” said the Deputy Minister.
South African exports to Vietnam are mostly primary products like oil and steel, aluminium, sea food, fresh fruits and nuts, in contrary, there is a scope for South Africa to increase exports of manufactured goods such as capital equipment, agro processing, automotive components.
“There is a need to diversify SA’s export basket and shape the massive trade deficit. Both countries need to make concerted efforts to increase South Africa’s value added products to Vietnam,” said Gina.
The Deputy Minister encouraged Vietnamese business people to explore investment opportunities in South Africa.
“With regards to the investment and cooperation on electric vehicle and battery manufacturing, the levels of investment remain low but there is room for improvement. The development of our automotive industry, in particular electric vehicles and their associated components such as batteries is key to our economy,” Gina said.
She mentioned furniture manufacturing as one area of interest and said South Africa would like to cooperate with Vietnam in this sector and receive investment.
She said there was so much that both countries can learn from each other.
Taking into account South Africa's abundant natural resources and Vietnam's position as the world's second-largest furniture exporter, Gina said there was a need to engage more and develop mutually beneficial areas of cooperation.
The roundtable was preceded by a bilateral meeting between Gina and her Vietnamese counterpart, Phan Thi Thang.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss bilateral trade and investment issues including a follow-up on the outcomes of the 5th SA-Vietnam Joint Trade Committee.
Some of the key issues the two discussed include increasing and diversification of exports to Vietnam, expansion of investment by Vietnamese companies in South Africa, cooperation on the Automotive sector (electric vehicles), cooperation on furniture manufacturing and market access for agricultural products. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 09/15/2023 - 09:53
Law enforcement honing in on illegal mining kingpins
Law enforcement agencies have set their sights on arresting the kingpins which perpetuate illegal mining in South Africa.
This is according to Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who was addressing the media on Thursday the outcomes of a Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.
“In the first quarter of 2023 the Hawks arrested 611 suspects and seized various items including precious metals and diamonds, endangered species, vehicles, cash, firearms, ammunition, counterfeit goods, explosives and electronic devices worth R6 112 768 985.
“In addition, law enforcement arrested nine zama zama [illegal mining] kingpins and were granted preservation orders against their assets that include luxury vehicles such as a Lamborghini and precious metals and cash to the value of R34 million.
“This goes against the narrative that says in our fight against zama zamas we are only targeting runners. We are targeting the kingpins,” she said.
Ntshavheni said Cabinet had commended law enforcement agencies on “their fight to dismantle crime syndicates”.
“The successful actions in dealing with a heavily armed gang linked to a series of cash in transit heists in Limpopo is commendable. Cabinet reiterates that law enforcement should leave no stone unturned in dealing with those who seek to undermine South Africa’s national security and the laws of the Republic,” she said.
Turning to issues related to personal protective equipment (PPE) corruption, the Minister explained that although it is taking some time, progress is being made to bring wrongdoers to book.
“Cabinet welcomed the arrest of nine Northern Cape Department of Health officials for PPE corruption. The suspects are accused of fraud, corruption, money laundering and contravening the Public Finance Management Act.
“We know the impatience of our people in terms of the arrests of PPE corrupt officials and their business partners, but we are gradually making progress,” she said.
Regarding Operation Bring Back – which seeks to identify and recover illegally occupied buildings owned by the state – Minister Ntshavheni said Cabinet commended efforts to wrestle back control of hijacked buildings.
“As part of this initiative, the national government is providing support to municipalities to ensure the enforcement of by-laws to eradicate hijacking of buildings, their effective management and utilisation, and ability to account for the utilisation of government’s immovable assets,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 09/14/2023 - 11:06
President Ramaphosa to deliver eulogy at Prince Buthelezi's funeral
President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the eulogy at the special official funeral of the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday.
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya confirmed this during a press briefing with media houses to update them about the President’s diary at the Union Buildings on Thursday.
Buthelezi passed away on 9 September 2023, at the age of 95.
President Ramaphosa has honoured Buthelezi by declaring his funeral a special official funeral category 1.
“In accordance with the state, official, and provincial official funeral policy of the government, a special official funeral category 1 is a recognition reserved for individuals of extraordinary distinction as designated by the President of the Republic of South Africa,” Magwenya explained.
The funeral, according to the President’s spokesperson, will include elements of military honours.
“The President has directed that flags be flown half-mast at flag stations around the country until the evening of Saturday, which is the day of the funeral,” he added.
G77+China Summit
The First Citizen has delegated International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, to lead South Africa’s delegation to the Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Group of 77 and China.
The gathering, which will be held on 15 and 16 September, will focus on the role of science, technology and innovation.
“President Ramaphosa values the importance of the Group of 77 and China as the largest intergovernmental organisation of developing countries in the United Nations (UN).”
The platform, according to Magwenya, is where Global South countries can articulate, promote collective economic interests and enhance their collective negotiating capacity.
“This capacity is brought to bear on global issues that are deliberated within the UN system and on the advancement of South-South cooperation for development.
“The President welcomes the opportunity for South Africa to contribute to the Group’s debates, analysis and consensus on the main challenges facing the South,” he added.
UNGA78
Meanwhile, it was announced that President Ramaphosa will lead South Africa’s delegation to the General Debate of the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA78) which takes place from 18 to 26 September 2023 in New York, in the United States.
The President will deliver the South Africa statement to the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, 19 September 2023.
A number of high-level engagements will precede the address to the UN General Assembly.
These include summits on Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health; Sustainable Development Goals; a High-Level Dialogue on Financing for Development; Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response; and Climate Ambition to be hosted by the UN Secretary-General.
President Ramaphosa will also lead discussions during the Presidential Roundtable that will hosted by the United States Chamber of Commerce and the US-Africa Business Centre.
His programme will also include several bilateral meetings on the sidelines of UNGA.
South Africa’s participation at the UN, Magwenya said, is directed by its international relations policy objectives, among others. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 09/14/2023 - 15:22
SA economy demonstrates resilience through multiple gains
Despite the prevailing difficult global economic conditions, South Africa’s economy continues to demonstrate its resilience, with multiple gains being achieved towards the country’s economy, investment and trade.
These include the 0.6% expansion of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the second quarter of 2023, a R5 billion investment pledge by auto component manufacturers, job creation at the Rainbow Chickens facility in Hammarsdale and an investment by Stellantis to develop a greenfield manufacturing facility.
“Cabinet is pleased with the resilience of the South African economy as shown by South Africa’s GDP second quarter data, as released by StatsSA. This is despite the prevailing difficult global economic conditions and the persistence of the electricity situation in the country,” Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday.
According to Stats SA, six industries on the supply side of the economy grew in the second quarter, with manufacturing and finance driving much of the upward momentum.
“The manufacturing industry increased by 2.2% in the second quarter, contributing 0.3 of a percentage point to GDP growth. The continued improvements in manufacturing data indicates improvements in the production capacity, which in turn contributes to an increase in total manufacturing employment.
“The petroleum, chemical products, rubber and plastic products division made the largest contribution to the increase in the second quarter. The basic iron and steel, non-ferrous metal products, metal products and machinery division also made a significant contribution to the growth in this industry,” the Minister said.
The finance, real estate and business services industry increased by 0.7% in the second quarter, contributing 0.2 of a percentage point to GDP growth while the agriculture, forestry and fishing industry increased by 4.2%, contributing 0.1 of a percentage point to GDP growth.
The personal services industry increased by 0.7% in the second quarter, contributing 0.1% of a percentage point to GDP growth.
The Minister made these remarks during a media briefing in Pretoria on the outcomes a Cabinet meeting that was held on Wednesday.
Cabinet had at the meeting also welcomed a pledge for an investment worth approximately R5 billion by auto component manufacturers made at the National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM) show recently.
“These pledges by companies operating in South Africa show the confidence of the industry in the South African market and the opportunities to localise the production of components, providing auto assemblers with a more resilient supply base.
“Shortly after the announcement, the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition officially opened the Benteler plant extension in the Eastern Cape, producing components for local car assemblers. The expansion of production is estimated to replace imports worth R1 billion and the workforce grew to 743 workers,” Ntshavheni said.
Gains in poultry sector
Cabinet said the recent job creation for 750 people at the Rainbow Chickens facility in Hammarsdale demonstrates the success of the implementation of the Poultry Masterplan.
“During 2017, Rainbow Chickens had retrenched more than 1 000 workers and closed operations. After adoption of the masterplan, government implemented a variety of measures to safeguard the local poultry industry including placing anti-dumping duties on poultry imported from producers in five countries.
“This, together with increased investment and measures to transform the industry and bring more black-owned firms into the market, has seen real successes,” Ntshavheni said.
Rainbow Chickens has since re-opened and invested R220 million.
In addition, the overall employment within the poultry industry has been reported to have increased by 2 780 jobs and more than R2 billion in fresh investment has been implemented.
Meanwhile, Cabinet welcomed the confirmation by Stellantis of its intention to develop a greenfield manufacturing facility in Coega, South Africa. The greenfield manufacturing project is planned to be completed by the end of 2025.
“The first launch, planned for early 2026, is for a 1 T pick-up truck, with volumes expected to reach up to 50 000 annually, including for export, in line with the industry masterplan, known as the Automotive Production Development Program (APDP).
“Direct employment to support the first capacity step is expected at 1 000 jobs. Stellantis will be massively investing in over 500 000 hours in training and skills to develop and support the local teams to the level of global standards. We are targeting a localisation rate over 30%,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 09/14/2023 - 11:19
Global Unity Initiative In early September 2023, business leaders from Guernsey’s financial sector assembled in Cape Town to rekindle ties with South African businesses and with sport for development programme CoolPlay. A team from WE ARE GUERNSEY, along with 20 delegates from the island, were back in Cape Town to promote Guernsey’s financial services sector, …
SevenC, a leading IT infrastructure and network service provider striving to identify and make available the best possible IT strategies for its clients’ unique needs, delves into why cloud power remains undefeated by load shedding. As load shedding continues to challenge businesses and individuals alike, there emerges a beacon of hope and efficiency: cloud computing. …
MANCOSA looks to address the AI skills shortage as it offers a South African first In line with the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the movement from localised job markets to a global job market, technology is having a significant influence on the future world of work, with artificial intelligence taking centre stage when it comes …
Mashatile to host Vietnamese Vice President on Official Visit to SA
Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Friday host Vietnamese Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan on an Official Visit to South Africa.
The Official Visit, according to the Presidency, occurs within the context of the commemoration of 30 years of diplomatic relations between South Africa and Vietnam.
The aim is to reinvigorate and further strengthen the ties of friendship and solidarity between the two countries to consolidate the multifaceted partnership.
“South Africa and Vietnam enjoy friendly and constructive relations grounded in a shared history of struggle for freedom and common values supportive of the agenda of the Global South.
“The Official Visit presents an opportunity to highlight the excellent relations between the two countries and to foster closer ties with the government and people of Vietnam,” the Presidency said.
Bilateral mechanisms between the two countries include the inter-governmental partnership forum for economic, trade, scientific, technical and cultural cooperation and the joint technical committee.
These, according to the Deputy President’s Office, serve as a vehicle to review bilateral relations and identify priority areas for technical cooperation.
Total bilateral trade between South Africa and Vietnam amounted to R23.8 billion in 2022, with the trade balance in favour of Vietnam.
The focus areas for discussions between the two governments will include trade, investment, promotion of agricultural products, market access, higher education, mineral resources and energy.
The leaders will also talk about regional and multilateral issues.
The Deputy Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Industry and Trade, Agriculture and Rural Development, Planning and Investment, Education and Training will accompany Vice President Xuan.
She will also be joined by senior government, senior leaders of the Communist Party of Vietnam and a business delegation. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 09/13/2023 - 13:22
Last year an armed group wearing EFF regalia blocked the entrance to Gas Giants after demanding it fire immigrant workers and pay protection money
Take part in awareness campaigns for people with disabilities
Citizens have been called to participate in the various awareness campaigns and support programmes available for people with disabilities to remove the barriers perpetuated by stigmatisation and discriminatory practices.
Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) Deputy Director-General, Shoki Tshabalala, made this call during a webinar for artists with disabilities held on Wednesday.
The department, in partnership with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC), hosted the webinar to foster inclusion, integration and the promotion of artists with disabilities into the mainstream arts and culture sector.
The webinar also aimed to remove the limitation of placing people with disabilities in a system that does not promote arts and cultural activities of people with disabilities, and not as active participants in the country’s arts and cultural programs.
In her address, Tshabalala said the department had identified several areas of collaboration with the Department of Arts, Culture and Sport for the 2023/2024 financial year and empowerment of people with disabilities in the arts, is one of them.
She said in 2021, the department was invited by the DSAC to a workshop which was convened during Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM) 2021 in Kopanong.
“There were workshop resolutions and identified areas of support needed by artists with disabilities [and] the resolutions would guide us to develop a plan of action. During the DWYPD 2022 4 Cities Tour, there was a realisation of a greater need for persons with disabilities to be aware of and be exposed to the funding opportunities available within DSAC,” Tshabalala highlighted.
Tshabalala said, through this collaboration, empowerment workshops will be conducted, as most of the artists are not professionally organised.
The workshops will provide access to funding on business and professionalisation of their artistry/crafts, and how artists should interact with different funding schemes.
Tshabalala acknowledged that there are issues of access to markets, saying government needs to ascertain how best they can participate in the mainstreaming of the industry and rope in different industry stakeholders, including private or public to assist artists.
“There is a need to look at institutionalisation of the disability forums [and] this ties up with the mainstreaming of DSAC programmes. We will look at how DSAC programmes are structured in terms of DSAC annual performance plan and operational plans, and DWYPD will assist in the mainstreaming indicators thereof to ensure there is disability inclusion.
“Consistent with the “nothing about us without us” movement, the creation of a framework on self-representation for persons with disabilities is also one of our top priorities for this,” the Deputy Director-General said.
Addressing barriers for artists with disabilities
CEO of the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town, Marlene le Roux, highlighted some of the needs of artists with disabilities, including special transport; accommodation close to the performing venue; assistive devices; medical support such as physiotherapy; assistants to help artists and provision of sustenance.
“While we all strive for equality, as this means ‘we all get the same’, it can only work if we all start from the same place. In many instances and especially for persons with disabilities, we need to address the barriers that they must first overcome in order to have equal opportunities,” le Roux said.
She emphasised that the National Disability Rights Awareness Month, which is celebrated annually from 3 November to 3 December, should not be a “box-ticking” activity but rather it should be a time for introspection on what has happened, what is supposed to be happening, and where the country is going. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 09/13/2023 - 12:04
In a rapidly evolving world where technology, sustainability, and efficiency are critical, it’s more important than ever to find innovative solutions for complex engineering challenges. Companies have to work smart to stay ahead, and this is where engineered solutions come into play. Let’s explore how tailored solutions are revolutionising sectors from mining to agriculture. …
Introduction The digital world is ever-changing, and in this landscape, the importance of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) can’t be overstated. SEO helps businesses rank higher in search results, thereby increasing visibility and potentially boosting customer engagement and sales. If you’re wondering what an SEO agency does and how it can help your business, you’re in …
Nangamso Matebese appointed as Deputy President’s economic affairs advisor
Nangamso Matebese has been appointed to the advisory team in the Office of Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
“Ms Matebese is being seconded to the Office by the Development Bank of Southern Africa to serve as economic affairs advisor to the Deputy President,” a statement read on Monday.
“Matebese brings critical experience to the Presidency, having been responsible for infrastructure coordination among her many past responsibilities.”
Matebese is a qualified Chartered Banker with qualifications from Harvard Business School.
She has over 14 years of experience in investment banking, infrastructure and project finance, fund administration and management, and portfolio management.
The Office of the Deputy President said it believes she brings diverse and invaluable expertise to the already formidable team the Office has put together to support the Deputy President.
In this role, she will advise and apply her expertise in economic investments and infrastructure, forming part of the critical responsibilities of the Presidential Coordinating Council, which the Deputy President co-chairs.
Her responsibilities will also include analysing economic policies and recommendations for economic policies that will benefit the growth of the South African economy and the African investment trade.
“The Deputy President wishes Ms Matebese well during her time in the Presidency and commends her commitment to public service.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 09/12/2023 - 09:01
Hostex 2024, Africa’s food, drink and hospitality trade expo, is gearing up to be an unmissable event for industry professionals. With just months to go, Hostex has announced a significant milestone – an impressive 50% of the exhibition floorspace has already been sold, indicating the industry’s support and excitement surrounding this year’s event. Hostex 2024 …
BENTELER expansion a boost for automotive manufacturing industry
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel, says the expansion of the BENTELER South Africa plant in Gqeberha represents a significant milestone in South Africa's thriving automotive manufacturing industry.
The Minister has welcomed the investment made by BENTELER, which has resulted in the expansion of the Gqeberha plant by over 9 000m2, positioning it as the third hot forming plant in South Africa. The company started operating in Gqeberha in 2011.
Patel said this development reaffirms the nation's growth trajectory and its status as a hub for automotive production, notably in the Eastern Cape province.
During the construction phase, this expansion generated employment opportunities for 236 individuals and provided business opportunities to 42 different companies.
Furthermore, it is anticipated that an additional 50 skilled jobs will be created, increasing BENTELER's workforce from 697 to 743.
“This investment is significant, as it will achieve an annual import replacement value of an estimated R1 billion,” Patel said in his address via a video message.
“The investment is also a testament to the efficacy of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition's Automotive Production and Development Programme (APDP) and the Automotive Investment Scheme (AIS), operating within the framework of the South African Automotive Masterplan (SAAM).
“It highlights the pivotal role played by component manufacturing, a fundamental element of the APDP's objectives, especially in light of the constant evolution in vehicle technologies and manufacturing processes.”
The Minister said the investment underscores the growing recognition among Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) of the advantages of purchasing from localised suppliers.
“OEMs have seen that through local manufacturing of components, they can mitigate offshore supply chain costs, ultimately resulting in the creation of local jobs.” – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 09/12/2023 - 14:00
Pioneers in the medical industry will gather alongside high-level representatives from government and business in October, for the inaugural Africa Health Indaba in Gauteng.
The Indaba takes place during the annual Africa Health Congress and is an evolution of the Leaders Forum event that was previously hosted during this annual gathering.
Set to be inaugurated by Mr Panyaza Lusufi, Premier of Gauteng province, the Indaba seeks to position Africa as a leader in medical innovation, spearheading global change.
By focusing on the local production of drugs and machines, fostering resilient supply chains, and promoting local industry, the event signifies Africa's commitment to leading medical innovation in areas where it is most needed and where resources are often most stretched.
A core component of the Indaba's discussions is the imperative of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). UHC is a critical goal for health systems worldwide and holds particular significance for Africa.
The Indaba will create a platform for dialogue and knowledge sharing about achieving UHC in the African context. It addresses the unique challenges and opportunities that Africa presents and delves into the practicalities of resource sharing and balancing costs to stakeholders across the continent.
“A key focus of the discussions will be the alignment with the vision and trajectory of the South African NHI, currently a contested issue. The Indaba will provide an important forum for understanding how Africa's healthcare future can reconcile with the NHI's objectives, fostering an integrated and equitable health system,” says Dr Bandile Hadebe, spokesperson for the organisers of the event.
The Africa Health Indaba is more than a platform for dialogue and innovation. It serves as a roadmap for sustainable healthcare systems, universal health coverage, and fostering regional cohesion.
The event aligns with the principles of medical science and evidence-driven decision making, maintaining a non-partisan stance, and focusing on global best practices.
“The inaugural Africa Health Indaba is an elevated conversation at the heart of Africa's premier health industry summit. It offers an opportunity to network at the highest levels in a space of robust engagement featuring a balanced diversity of both technical and social perspectives, as well as inclusive stakeholder representation, including government, public, private and industry engagement,” says Dr Hadebe.
Each discussion is formatted and structured to ensure efficient knowledge sharing at the highest level and will culminate in a set of guidelines that will be published and distributed among stakeholders, ensuring the ideas and strategies discussed at the Indaba translate into concrete, actionable plans.
Drawing on the latest trends and innovations from both international and transcontinental perspectives, the Indaba will serve as a hub for learning and exchange. This approach will help to position Africa is at the forefront of healthcare innovation, leveraging global knowledge while tailoring solutions to local conditions and contexts.
The inaugural Africa Health Indaba is set to become an essential platform driving tangible change in Africa's healthcare landscape.
It signifies a commitment to leading the way in medical innovation, thereby fostering a prosperous and resilient future for the continent.
It takes place on Wednesday 18 October 2023 at Gallagher Estate in Gauteng, as part of the annual Africa Health Congress.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Health .
About Africa Health:
From Hardship to Hope: Appliance repair programme uplifts unemployed mother in Eastern Cape An appliance repair programme in the Eastern Cape is driving a profound positive change in the lives of unemployed women in local communities, including divorced mother of three children, Nomakosazana Fuzile (46), who says it has brought a ray of light in …
Minister Gordhan will apply the law regarding Mango Airlines judgement
Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan has in a statement emphasised his responsibility to apply the law and policies that govern the way he dispenses his oversight of State Owned Companies (SOCs) as the government shareholder representative.
This in relation to the Pretoria High Court’s decision ordering that the Minister decide on the sale of South African Airways (SAA) subsidiary, Mango Airlines, within 30 days as proposed by the business rescue practitioner.
Gordhan said he is studying the judgement and will proceed on the basis of legal advice he receives on the matter.
“My duty as the executive authority is to safeguard the interests of South Africans. At no point will I abandon my fiduciary responsibility to ensure that any decision that is taken regarding the future of Mango is consistent with the prescripts of the law and is in the best interest of the public.
“The issues around this case evolve around my request for further information from the business rescue practitioner. This is what the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) requires in order to make a judiciously sound decision. I will not be bullied to act in a manner that will compromise the work of government in this regard.
“While we respect the decision of the Court, the department will ensure that we follow all the prescripts of the law in terms of how we execute on our responsibility to put all our SOCs on a stable footing,” Minister Gordhan added.
According to the department, Gordhan requested the following information from the business rescue practitioner to “enable him to make the decision on the PFMA Section 54 (2) application”:
“Despite several requests, the Minister was not furnished with the requested information. The Minister cannot make a decision based on insufficient information,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 09/12/2023 - 10:18
Today, Canon (Canon-CNA.com) begins its role as the Official Imaging Supplier of the Rugby World Cup 2023, which will be the third Rugby World Cup tournament it has sponsored. As the Official Imaging Supplier of Rugby World Cup 2023, Canon provides world-leading technology that ensures fans don't miss a moment of the action. Canon will be supplying a full range of support from its diverse businesses, including cameras, lenses, video camcorders and network cameras. As with many major sporting events, Canon Professional Services will be available, where its team members will be providing technical support to more than 800 press, 400+ photographers, 300+ TV crew personnel, 300+ agency staff and 70+ radio personnel. Support includes camera and lens maintenance services and product loans, ensuring they are equipped to capture every nail-biting moment.
AFP Partnership
In addition to its official imaging role, Canon is supporting several activities off the pitch that are designed to champion inclusivity across the sport. This includes an exciting partnership with the AFP, which will see one aspiring young photographer from each of the participating nations partnered with a staff photographer, equipped with a Canon camera.
Earlier this year, ahead of the tournament, each pair worked on an assignment together that illustrated their nation's relationship with the Rugby World Cup through photography. By allowing the next generation to show the world what the tournament means to their nation, we can celebrate the diversity of the sport and inspire a world of change.
Partnership with the Portuguese National Team
At the Rugby World Cup 2023, Canon will be giving members of the Portuguese national team PowerShot V10 (https://apo-opa.info/3VTs35H) cameras and will be featuring their stories on its website, enabling them to catalogue their tournament journey through their own lens.
Let's Celebrate our Differences
Rugby is a universal sport. It brings together women and men sharing key values of the sport such as solidarity, commitment, and respect, no matter where they come from and no matter who they are. These values have been celebrated in a unique international “Celebrating Our Differences” (https://www.LetsCelebrateOurDifferences.com/en/) photography competition, of which Canon is an official sponsor.
Once again, ahead of the tournament, the power was handed to fans across the world, to illustrate what the sport means to them. The winners of the challenge – from France, Argentina, Uganda, India, and Vietnam – were awarded prizes that included 16 Canon cameras: 12 Canon EOS R50s for the winners of each category and 4 EOS R8s for Canon's favourites. The photographs can be found on display on the gates of the UNESCO's headquarters in the seventh arrondissement of Paris until the 6th September, as well as during the tournament at the host cities of this year's Rugby World Cup.
See the winning images here (https://apo-opa.info/3Ewr6Zr).
“We're delighted to be the Official Imaging Supplier of the Rugby World Cup this year, following two great tournaments in England and Japan” says Peter Morris, Brand and Sponsorship Senior Manager, Canon EMEA. “We've also been thrilled to participate in the AFP partnership and the “Celebrate our Differences” photography competition, two initiatives that put the power of imaging in the hands of the diverse fans that help make this tournament such a special event. We hope that these moments, captured through the lens of our iconic imaging equipment, will help drive positive change.”
Rugby World Cup 2023
Host country: France
Tournament period: September 8 – October 28, 2023
Participating teams: 20 (South Africa, Namibia, England, Wales, New Zealand, Japan, France, Australia, Ireland, Scotland, Italy, Argentina, Fiji, Samoa, Uruguay, Georgia, Romania, Portugal, Tonga and Chile.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).
Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
E-mail: Mai.youssef@canon-me.com
APO Group - PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
E-mail: Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com
About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon's business within the Africa region - by strengthening Canon's in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon's commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.
Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa's rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.
Canon's corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.info/3xeczh6) – ‘living and working together for the common good'. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon's products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better. For more information: Canon-CNA.com.
Court rules that John Marite has no case against Special Investigating Unit
Beaufort West magistrate committed a litany of errors in sentencing says High Court
The Pitch AgriHack (https://apo-opa.info/3Zaz0kE) 2023 results are in, capping an inspiring journey celebrating Africa's most exciting agritech visionaries. Applicants from 39 African countries went through a rigorous selection process until six winners were crowned at the Youth Innovation Awards on the final day of The Africa Food Systems Forum hosted at the Julius Nyerere ICC, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. This year's Pitch AgriHack theme, “Unleash your Innovation,” resonated deeply with the entrepreneurs who demonstrated how technology can be harnessed to drive sustainability, improve productivity, and uplift communities.
Pitch AgriHack (https://apo-opa.info/3Zaz0kE) 2023 was jointly organized by the African Food Systems Forum (AGRF), Heifer International, and Generation Africa. This year participants and supporters witnessed an impressive showcase of innovation. The competition underscored the power of technology-driven solutions in addressing pressing challenges across the agricultural value chain. Awarding a total prize pool of USD 45,000, the competition recognized and celebrated the brilliance of young minds that are reshaping the future of African agriculture.
"This competition serves as a dynamic showcase of sustainable practices and innovation that is set to define African agriculture. Beyond acknowledging inventive ideas, Pitch AgriHack underscores the steadfast commitment of our youth to revolutionize the sector. At Heifer International, we recognize technology's pivotal role in fostering prosperity for smallholder farmers and rural communities," said Adesuwa Ifedi, Senior Vice President for Africa Programs. "We are deeply committed to investing in and enabling young individuals to create solutions that enhance the yields of smallholder farmers, and the agritech solutions presented not only address challenges within the agricultural value chain but also promote environmental conservation, resource efficiency, and long-term viability."
Dr. Agnes Kalibata, President of AGRA and Former Special Envoy to the UN Food Systems Summit, remarked, "The achievements seen at Pitch AgriHack 2023 truly celebrate entrepreneurial excellence in agriculture. These young innovators are not only shaping the sector's trajectory through their creativity and dedication, but they're also inspiring future leaders to consider impactful careers in agriculture and agribusiness. The technologies presented demonstrate the power of youth to drive practical and sustainable solutions, paving the way for a resilient and prosperous tomorrow."
The innovative solutions developed by the 2023 Pitch AgriHack finalists span a diverse spectrum. From turning waste into cooking gas and electricity, to ultra-fast composting with integrated nutrient analysers, these young entrepreneurs are finding value in nature-positive projects. Cost-saving measurement devices that analyse crop and soil health, providing recommendations that empower farmers, also impressed the judges. Artificial Intelligence integrations featured in several digital farming assistants. Drawing on massive data sets they optimize production, detect diseases, and generate recommendations for improved farming practices.
The entrepreneurs also presented game-changing inclusive finance solutions for women farmers and commodity-backed, post-harvest handling and storage for smallholders. With automated farm management and monitoring systems and behaviour modification solutions that reward farmers for following better practises, Africa's young innovators are determined to build a better food system.
“The multi-facetted technologies, environmentally-aware approaches, and thorough business models we saw here today indicate that our youth entrepreneurs are building more resilient businesses with more comprehensive offerings that in turn help their farmers become more resilient, too,” said Dickson Naftali, Head of Generation Africa. “It is exactly the type of transformation we need, at scale, for the responsible development of the African food system. Pitch AgriHack not only celebrates such innovation but also fosters networking, collaboration, and exchange among these enterprising youth, mentors, investors, and industry experts. It creates a supportive ecosystem that propels them to grow. We are excited to see how they benefit from this opportunity."
The Pitch AgriHack 2023 Winners are:
Early-Stage Winners:
Winner: Watson Matsa, Co-Founder and CEO of eSusFarm Africa, South Africa
eSusFarm connects with rural farmers via feature-phone USSD, allowing them access to value-chain services, markets, and credit providers. Their system helps small farmers build their track record by collecting farm production data, and monitoring produce quality. Connect with Watson's venture at www.eSusFarm.Africa.
Runner-up: El Mahdi Aboulmanadel, Founder and CEO of DeepLeaf, Morocco
DeepLeaf is an agricultural deep learning lab that is focused on leveraging the latest in AI technology to revolutionize the way we grow crops. Their intelligent farming chatbot, Morshida, uses deep learning to analyse plant images and assist farmers in disease analysis. With natural language processing, Morshida can communicate in 14 different languages and dialects. Connect with El Mahdi's venture at https://DeepLeaf.io.
Mature and Growth-Stage Winners:
Winner: Tunde Adeyemi, Founder and CEO of D-Olivette, Nigeria
D-Olivette builds Bio-Tanks, anaerobic digestors that transforms organic farm waste into fertilizer and biogas for cooking and electricity generation. Their solution is helping smallholder farmers to reduce operational costs, pollution, and CO2 emissions. Connect with Tunde's venture at http://D-Olivette.com.
Runner-up: Reem Nafea, Co-Founder and Business Development Director of BioMasr, Egypt
Biomasr's new Rafik app is a hub for organic agriculture in Egypt. It connects farmers to ecological waste management, clean energy production, and organic fertiliser suppliers, while also empowering women farmers to grow and sell quality organic produce. Connect with Reem's venture at https://BioMasr.com.
Women-led Agribusiness Winners:
Winner: Priscilla Wakarera, Co-Founder and CEO of Rhea, Kenya
Rhea helps smallholder farmers make the right decisions by providing affordable, convenient soil testing for smarter farming. Their IoT device does moisture testing, NPK measurements and soil PH tests before sending AI generated recommendations for fertiliser, pH adjustments, irrigation, and crop recommendations. Connect with Priscilla's venture at www.Rhea.Africa.
Runner-up: Solape Akinpelu, Co-Founder and CEO of HerVest, Nigeria
HerVest is about inclusive finance for African women. They provide easy access to target savings, impact investments and credit financing for smallholder women farmers and women-owned/led SMEs in Nigeria. Connect with Solape's venture at https://www.HerVest.ng.
The winners were selected by an esteemed panel of judges that included experts and leaders in agriculture and technology. Pitch AgriHack contestants were honoured to get invaluable advice and guidance from this highly-respected judges group consisting of:
This year's Pitch AgriHack applicant breakdown mirrors Africa's youthful dynamism. 79.3% were early-stage startups, embodying the innovative pulse of the competition. Mature/growth-stage agritech ventures represented 20.5%, underlining the sector's growth.
The innovation showcased at Pitch AgriHack 2023 is a strong affirmation of the commitment of AGRF, Heifer International, and Generation Africa to nurture innovation, create job opportunities, and enhance food security across the continent. Through this dynamic competition, the partners seek to inspire a new generation of agritech entrepreneurs who will not only revolutionize the agricultural landscape but also empower smallholder farmers to overcome challenges and embrace sustainable change.
For further information and updates, please visit the official Generation Africa website: https://GenAfrica.org.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Pitch AgriHack.
Contact:
Jane Machigere
jane@jsmcommunications.com
www.GenAfrica.org
About Heifer International:
Since 1944, Heifer International has worked with nearly 43 million people around the world to end hunger and poverty in a sustainable way. Working with rural communities across Africa for nearly 50 years, Heifer International supports farmers and local food producers to strengthen local economies and build secure livelihoods that provide a living income. Heifer is currently operating in 19 countries across Africa, Asia and the Americas. For more information, visit https://www.Heifer.org.
About Generation Africa:
Generation Africa is a thematic platform of the AGRF, whose mandate is to strengthen the ecosystem for youth entrepreneurs in the agri-food sector across Africa. From its start in 2019, Generation Africa has brought together industry leaders, government institutions, NGOs, NPOs, and community platforms to collaborate on ecosystem development, curation and support of agribusinesses, research and advocacy, and the inspiration of young people to embrace opportunities in the agrifood sector. Find out more at https://GenAfrica.org.
About the AGRF:
The AGRF is the world's premier forum for African agriculture, bringing together stakeholders in the agricultural landscape to take practical actions and share lessons that will move African agriculture forward. Under AGRF's current strategy, the Forum is particularly focused on driving progress of the Malabo Declaration by 2025 as the priority set of commitments African Heads of State and Government have made to strengthen agricultural development at the centre of the continent's overall development and progress. The AGRF is organised by the AGRF Partners Group, a coalition of institutions that care about Africa's agriculture transformation. For more information visit https://AGRF.org.
Super Green – Tree Felling Centurion Emerges as the Premier Choice for Expert Tree Services in Centurion Centurion, South Africa -11 September 2023 – Super Green – Tree Felling Centurion, a trusted name in tree services, proudly announces its comprehensive range of tree felling and care solutions. Catering to the specific needs of Centurion and …