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Government pledges to complete Vredefort Dome Visitor Interpretation Centre project

Location: News

Government pledges to complete Vredefort Dome Visitor Interpretation Centre project

The Department of Tourism will endeavour to facilitate an amicable resolution that will lead to the completion of the Vredefort Dome Visitor Interpretation Centre.

The Vredefort Dome Visitor Interpretation Centre in the Free State is an initiative of the department under its Working for Tourism programme that supports greater destination competitiveness, transformation, and accelerated tourism and enterprise growth. 

Over the years, the construction of the Vredefort Dome Visitor Interpretation Centre has encountered a myriad of challenges that have impacted on the completion of the facility.

“The Vredefort Dome Visitor Interpretation Centre is a critical educational and geological facility that will bring socio-economic benefits for the country and more importantly, to the community members of the Nqwathe Local Municipality and the Fezile Dabi District Municipality,” Deputy Minister of Tourism Maggie Sotyu said on Friday.

Sotyu conducted an oversight visit at the Vredefort Dome UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Free State to assess the progress of the infrastructure developments at the Vredefort Dome Visitor Interpretation Centre.

In January 2024, the department, through the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA), appointed a contractor to refurbish and complete the exhibition centre; kiosk and ablutions facilities; the craft market; amphitheater; guard house; parking area; perimeter fence; ramps and walkways; landscaping, and the installation of signage. The refurbishments are 55% complete. 

“I have listened to the concerns raised by the community that relate to the construction of the Visitor Interpretation Centre. The challenges surrounding this facility have, over the years, robbed the sector and the community of an opportunity to boost the tourism and revive the local economy.

“As a department, we will endeavour to facilitate an amicable resolution that will lead to the completion of the Vredefort Dome Visitor Interpretation Centre. However, this resolution can be made possible if we all work together, realising the long-term future benefits of the successful completion of the Visitor Interpretation Centre,” Sotyu said.

The tourism community engagement was supported by the executives of the Free State Department of Economic Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs.

The event included discussions with the local community, information sharing on various programmes of the department, and exhibitions by the various spheres of government and sector stakeholders. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 12/02/2024 - 09:42

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How Mukuru Is Reshaping Aid Disbursements, Payroll and Bulk Commercial Payments in Malawi and Zimbabwe

Location: News
Mukuru

Mukuru (www.Mukuru.com) is a leading next-generation financial services platform that offers affordable and reliable financial services to a customer base of over 16-million people across Africa, Asia and Europe. The company, dedicated to continuously building a strong, reliable and resilient financial payments infrastructure to allow its customers to access new physical and digital services that add value, is also transforming the landscape of commercial and aid payments through its Enterprise Payments Platform (EPP). 

EPP is a secure, efficient, safe and cost-effective solution for collections and bulk payments and is built off the successful use case of Mukuru's widely known remittance services. 

This case study explores how Mukuru's EPP is addressing the challenges associated with aid disbursements, payroll, and commercial transactions in underserved communities, including limited financial infrastructure, high transaction costs and issues regarding security, speed and regulations. 

It examines how EPP is revolutionising bulk payments in these critical sectors, with a focus on Malawi and Zimbabwe, by tackling the difficulties businesses and aid organisations encounter when serving remote areas. 

The challenge 

Tererai Mare, Enterprise Market Development Manager at Mukuru, explains that before EPP, businesses and nonprofits had to rely on traditional methods such as mobile money and banks to facilitate bulk payments. “These methods presented limitations — high transaction and encashment fees, delays, and limited reach in rural areas,” Mare says. “These issues hindered the efficient distribution of aid and management of payroll, especially in vulnerable communities.” 

Aid organisations faced significant hurdles in making bulk payments, while remote communities had limited access to affordable and convenient financial services. This created delays in aid reaching those in need and added financial pressure on businesses. 

The solution 

EPP was built on Mukuru's extensive person-to-person physical and digital payment infrastructure across Africa. The platform, known for its reach and liquidity, has many benefits, explains Mare. 

These include: 

  • Instant payouts: Funds reach beneficiaries instantly through cash collection points or digital wallets. 
  • Traceability: The platform offers full transaction tracking, which enhances transparency. This is vital for aid agencies for financial reporting to secure ongoing funding. 
  • Competitive fees: Lower costs benefit both businesses and nonprofits. 
  • Extensive network: Mukuru's branches, booths and mobile disbursement teams, alongside a rich network of partner locations, provide exceptional reach across southern and eastern Africa. 
  • Security: The best technology and processes ensure secure transactions. 
  • Flexibility: EPP caters to aid, commercial, and social grant distribution needs. 

Aid Agency Applications: 

Malawi 

Chiyembekezo Ken Ndala, Enterprise Sales Manager for Malawi at Mukuru, shares that the company partnered with CADECOM National Office for emergency flood relief in the aftermath of a recent cyclone. “CADECOM used the Mukuru platform to reach 4,520 households across several underserved areas.,” Ndala says. The timely distribution of funds allowed families to recover quickly and have their basic needs met. 

Mukuru also partners with Yamba Malawi, which provides monthly stipends to teenage mothers. “Yamba Malawi supports teen mothers, each receiving $20 per month for 12 months, with an additional $100 as seed capital after six months. This funding helps them care for their children and start small businesses to break the cycle of poverty,” Ndala explains. As an ongoing project, Mukuru has disbursed over $100,000 (MK183,600,000) to these beneficiaries. 

Zimbabwe 

Michael Scott, Group Head of Commercial at Mukuru, says that Mukuru has built extensive partnerships with United Nations agencies, including UNICEF, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), and the World Food Programme (WFP). 

“Mukuru was awarded a contract by WFP to distribute monthly cash grants to refugees at the Tongogara Refugee Camp. The EPP platform enables efficient delivery and end-to-end traceability of essential emergency funds to this vulnerable community” Scott explains. 

Scott explains that Mukuru has been awarded prestigious Long-Term Agreements by both UNICEF and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), underscoring its capability and reliability in delivering essential financial services across Africa. Under these agreements, Mukuru has facilitated payments to beneficiaries under emergency social cash transfer programming in Zimbabwe, alongside the provision of payroll services and payments to vendors and workshop participants. 

International NGOs, like Action Contre la Faim, have partnered with Mukuru to deliver cash transfers to remote households via Mukuru's mobile disbursement service. Mukuru's mobile teams schedule trips to these hard-to-reach areas and provide regular access to financial services, supporting a base level of financial inclusion and social upliftment otherwise not possible. 

Payroll and Commercial Applications: 

Mare explains that Mukuru also serves the varying needs of businesses needing to make payments to their employees, customers or smaller suppliers, who may not have bank accounts. “Many workers earn low salaries, making bank accounts unaffordable due to high transaction and maintenance fees. The EPP platform helps these workers receive payments efficiently, without encashment or ongoing account fee, addressing a major financial inclusion gap.” 

On the commercial side, Mukuru partners with the likes of Cottco and Premier Tobacco Auction Floors, heavyweights in Zimbabwe's cotton and tobacco industries, to facilitate payments to small-scale farmers. “These farmers often don't have bank accounts and come from far and wide to sell or auction their goods. Mukuru's EPP ensures they receive payments securely and swiftly. A Mukuru cash voucher is as trusted as the USD cash for which it can be exchanged, but safer to travel with on long journeys to and from the auction floors,” Mare adds. 

Conclusion 

Mukuru's EPP platform has redefined bulk payments and aid distribution for organisations struggling with traditional methods. Whether payroll or commercial settlement for businesses, or emergency aid for vulnerable communities, Mukuru offers efficiency, transparency, and security. 

With its vast network and proven ability to reach even the most remote areas, Mukuru continues to drive financial inclusion while streamlining bulk payments, reducing transaction costs, improving traceability and accountability, and minimising delays — critical when delivering aid. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mukuru.

Notes to Editor: 
Mukuru is a leading next generation financial services platform in Southern Africa that offers affordable and reliable financial services to a customer base of over 16 million across Africa, Asia and Europe. 

With over 100 million transactions to date, our core was built providing international money transfers and from this base, we've developed a set of services to address the broader financial needs of our customers. We now operate in over 60 countries and across over 500 remittance corridors. 

We are a business that puts the customer at the centre of everything we do, and for that reason, we serve clients across physical and digital channels, by various payment methods (cash, card, wallet) as well as a range of engagement platforms including WhatsApp, USSD, contact centre, App, website, agents and a branch and booth network. 

Mukuru has, for the fifth consecutive year, been listed as one of the top 100 Cross Border Payments businesses in the world in the 2024 FXC Intelligence Top 100 Cross-Border Payment Companies (https://apo-opa.co/41825jC), one of only six African companies to receive this accolade. 

In 2023, Mukuru officially ranked sixth on the LinkedIn Top Companies List in South Africa. 

Mukuru was celebrated for innovation and excellence at the 2023 Africa Tech Festival Awards, receiving the Fintech Innovation of the Year Award - an acknowledgment of the transformative power of financial technology in driving economic growth, financial inclusion, and digital transformation. 

In 2024, Mukuru won the IAMTN Payments Network Customers Experience Excellence Award for setting a high bar in exceptional customer satisfaction in cross-border payment services. Additionally, Mukuru was officially accredited as a 2024 Top Employer in South Africa by the Top Employers Institute. 

Further information can be found at https://www.Mukuru.com. 

Media Enquiries: 
Ammaarah Kootbodien: 
ammaarah@duomarketing.co.za 
(+27) 71 529 6449 

Kgomotso Hlakudi: 
kgomotso.hlakudi@mukuru.com 
(+27) 73 333 1672 

Mthokozisi Dube: 
mthokodube09@gmail.com 

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South Africa and Nigeria to hold 11th Bi-National Commission

Location: News

South Africa and Nigeria to hold 11th Bi-National Commission

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday co-chair the 11th Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between South Africa and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, at Tuynhuys, Cape Town. 

South Africa and Nigeria are this year marking 30 years of diplomatic relations, established in February 1994. 

The BNC will be preceded by the Senior Officials' Meeting from 28 - 29 November 2024, and the Ministerial Meeting on 2 December 2024. 

In March 2016, during the State Visit by South Africa, the BNC was elevated to Presidential level. There has been a number of exchanges of high-level visits between the two countries, including the visit to Nigeria by President Ramaphosa to attend President Tinubu’s inauguration ceremony held in Abuja on 29 May 2023. 

In turn, President Tinubu attended the inauguration of President Ramaphosa in June 2024 and had an opportunity to exchange views.

“South Africa regards Nigeria as a strategic partner in the context of bilateral relations in the West Africa region, and the continent in pursuing the vision for Africa’s renewal, South-South cooperation, and in the promotion of a rules-based international system of governance. The two countries share a common vision on issues of political and economic integration of the African continent,” the Presidency said in a statement. 

There are currently 34 Agreements and Memoranda of Understanding between the two countries, which cover a wide range of fields including economic, technical, scientific, social and tourism, amongst others. 

The two countries share historical relations dating back to the struggles against colonialism and apartheid, during whic Nigeria supported the African National Congress and other liberation movements. Nigeria spearheaded various campaigns, calling for political and economic sanctions against the apartheid system. 

In December 1989, Nigeria championed the adoption of the landmark UN Declaration on Apartheid and its Destructive Consequences in South Africa. 

“The BNC is expected to further deepen the existing political relations between South Africa and Nigeria and celebrate thirty years of unbroken diplomatic relations between the two countries since 1994. 

“It will also provide an opportunity to explore new possible areas of economic, trade and investment cooperation,” the Presidency said. 

A business roundtable between South Africa and Nigeria will follow after the conclusion of the BNC on 3 December 2024. Nigeria accounts for approximately 64% of South Africa’s total trade with the West African Region. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 11/29/2024 - 11:58

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HSRC survey results show signs of recovery for research and development spending in SA

Location: News

HSRC survey results show signs of recovery for research and development spending in SA

Gross domestic expenditure on research and development (R&D) grew to R28.282 billion in real terms for the 2022/23 fiscal year, marking a 2.1% increase from R27.712 billion in 2021/22.

This is according to the results of the South African R&D Survey for the period 2022/23.

The proportion of R&D expenditure to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was unchanged at 0.61%. 

“South Africa’s economy grew at a comparable 1.9% in 2022, so this is why the ratio of R&D to GDP, a measure of the research intensity of the South African economy, is static,” said the HSRC’s Dr Nazeem Mustapha, who led the research. 

“But we are seeing improvements in business R&D expenditure, which should be encouraging for policymakers and investors.” 

The survey report, prepared by the HSRC’s Centre for Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators (CeSTII), updates key national longitudinal data on R&D expenditure and personnel. 

Business  

The business sector increased its R&D expenditure in 2022/23 by almost R1 billion (R950 million), from R13.527 billion in 2021/22 to R14.507 billion in 2022/23. 

This is attributed to higher R&D spending in manufacturing and mining, according to the survey’s statistical report, which disaggregates spending data by standard industrial classification. 

Nominal expenditure increased in all institutional sectors covered by the survey, including the government, higher education institutions, non-profit organisations, and science councils. 

The key funders of R&D in South Africa in 2022/23 were the government (R20.664 billion), businesses (R11.754 billion), and foreign sources (R7.060 billion). 

The country’s headcount of researchers fell from 63 122 in 2021/22 to 61 457 in 2022/23. 

The proportion of female researchers to total researchers increased marginally from 47% in 2021/22 to 47.6% in 2022/23. 

The South African R&D Survey is conducted annually. 

“Survey data provide a key signal to policy actors about where the strengths and weaknesses are in the South African national system of innovation,” said CeSTII’s Executive Head, Dr Glenda Kruss. 

“A positive about the results is that we are starting to see a reversal of the drop in R&D spending that we observed in 2019/20, even before the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on R&D performers were reported.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 11/29/2024 - 10:51

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Eskom issues disconnection notice for services to Free State municipality

Location: News

Eskom issues disconnection notice for services to Free State municipality

Eskom has announced the publication of a disconnection notice for bulk electricity supply to Tokologo Local Municipality in the Free State due to an unpaid debt of R300 million.

The state-owned power utility said the action is per the provisions of the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act (PAJA).

“Should Eskom proceed with the disconnection, bulk electricity supply to Boshof, Seretse, Dealesville, and Hertzogville will be interrupted daily from 31 January 2025 for a set number of hours per day,” the Eskom statement read. 

Eskom said the municipality currently owes them R328 711 887 for the bulk supply of electricity, excluding the current account of a further R3 682 099, which became due and payable on 20 November 2024.

According to the utility, the last payment Eskom received from the municipality was R150 000 on 5 October 2021.

“The municipality charges, collects, and receives money from its customers for the supply of electricity but fails to hand over the portion due to Eskom. 

“This is at Eskom’s detriment and it is not sustainable. The municipality is responsible for discharging a constitutional obligation but decides to withhold payments to Eskom. The decision by Eskom to proceed with the process to disconnect electricity supply is a measure of last resort to prevent the debt from spiralling out of control.”

Eskom said the municipality’s breach of its payment obligation to Eskom undermines and places in jeopardy Eskom’s ability to continue the national supply of electricity on a financially sustainable basis. 

“Eskom must exercise its right to disconnect the supply of electricity to the municipality to protect the national interest in the sustainable supply of electricity to support economic growth.” 

The entity has since invited all affected parties to submit written representations, comments, or submissions indicating why Eskom should or should not proceed to reduce, disconnect, or terminate the bulk electricity supply points. 

The closing date for submissions will be close of business on 6 January 2025 and Eskom will communicate the final decision on or before 16 January 2025. 

“Eskom appreciates the hardships the community and the economy will suffer should it exercise its statutory powers to disconnect the municipality. There are no other meaningful options available for Eskom to stop the debt from growing and to collect for current consumption on bulk supply.” 

Eskom outlined interventions by stakeholders to empower the municipality to pay its Eskom debt since 2021. 

“Despite all the avenues that Eskom explored and efforts to accommodate the municipality, the matter has reached a point where Eskom can simply no longer afford to accommodate the municipality without further financial strain and harming its own business. 

“In terms of the Constitution and the Intergovernmental Relations Framework, the municipality is supposed to cooperate and assist Eskom with fulfilling its mandate of ensuring that citizens have access to affordable electricity. 

“The municipality has breached these obligations by not paying Eskom for the bulk electricity it supplies, making it impossible for Eskom to fulfill its mandate.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 11/28/2024 - 12:55

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eThekwini Municipality launches compliance campaign for spaza shops

Location: News

eThekwini Municipality launches compliance campaign for spaza shops

In response to the rising public health concerns and recent fatalities linked to contaminated food, eThekwini Municipality’s Health Unit is set to implement a comprehensive multidisciplinary operational campaign targeting compliance monitoring and enforcement in spaza and tuck shops across the city.

This comes amid the growing need for government to regulate the informal food outlets.

City’s Health Unit Head, Rose Van Heerden, emphasised the need for both enforcement and public education as part of the campaign, which will take place over the next two months.

Van Heerden said the unit’s campaign aims not only to enforce compliance but also educate business owners and the public about safe food practices, thereby safeguarding community health and well-being.

“Before we can enforce regulations, we must educate tuck shop owners about health standards. The continued sale of unsafe food items poses a risk, especially to vulnerable children in our communities.

“We need to engage with those who sell to schools, be it tuck shops or individuals, about practicing good safety standards and basic food hygiene,” Van Heerden said.

She said the campaign will cover various areas, including KwaNyuswa, Embo, Molweni, KwaDabeka, Wybank, Hillcrest, Waterfall, and uMlazi, with teams from Environmental Health Services, Metro Police, SAPS, and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development.

Van Heerden noted that from January to September 2024, the Health Unit conducted over 600 inspections, and more than 700 enforcement actions across its three sub-districts.

During a similar operation conducted in November last year, authorities condemned hundreds of food items from over 80 tuck shops in Pinetown and surrounding areas.

To protect public health, Van Heerden said the teams will check food expiry dates to prevent the sale of expired goods.

She said the municipality had closed shops that had no legal documents to operate a shop and they were also going to do the same during the campaign.

“Our law enforcement partners will arrest undocumented individuals who do not present required business permits, the shutdown of illegal establishments, and the issuance of compliance notices and fines for any by-law violations,” Van Heerden said.

Van Heerden has encouraged residents to remain vigilant when purchasing food from informal vendors and to report any concerns regarding product safety to the appropriate authorities.

Complaints can be directed to the city on 031 311 3555 or via WhatsApp on 083 560 3974. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 11/28/2024 - 11:46

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Hlabisa urges municipal leaders to implement by-laws to curb foodborne illnesses

Location: News

Hlabisa urges municipal leaders to implement by-laws to curb foodborne illnesses

Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, says the nation cannot afford to lose a single life due to foodborne illnesses. 

“I urge everyone to come together in a collective effort to combat this issue. The actions we take today will significantly impact the future of our townships, villages, and rural communities, especially for our children, who are most vulnerable to foodborne illnesses,” he told municipal leaders during a webinar on Monday. 

The webinar, led by the Minister, focused on the implementation of the Standard Draft By-laws for Township, Village, and Rural Economies (SDBs) to promote inclusive spatial and economic development. 

The by-laws, published recently aim to harmonise these ecosystems, support small businesses, and address issues like waste management and food safety. 

On 15 November 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced measures to address growing concerns regarding spaza and tuck shops linked to an increase in foodborne illnesses and deaths.

The President's address highlighted a foodborne illness crisis, with over 890 cases and about 25 deaths since September. 

Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal are among the provinces with the highest number of incidents, followed by Limpopo and Free State. 

Key interventions include removing hazardous pesticides, protecting children from exposure, and registering businesses within 21 days.

Hlabisa said municipalities must adopt these by-laws and provide necessary support to small businesses.

Municipalities are now expected to customise and implement the SDBs in line with Section 14 of the Municipal Systems Act. 

Specific provisions include designating specific business areas and sites, administrative or prohibiting trade in certain areas, registering businesses, and issuing permits and licenses.

Each municipality is required to provide management, operational, and skills development support for small businesses and facilitate access to infrastructure and markets.

“Some of the problems identified impact municipalities. Poor waste management in several municipalities was said to be creating conditions for rats and other pests to thrive. 

“To resolve this challenge, the poorest communities often utilise the cheapest, most hazardous remedies. Secondly, the local government has a responsibility to deploy environmental health services.”

Cabinet has approved three initiatives aimed at removing hazardous pesticides from circulation, protecting children from exposure to harmful substances, and preventing future outbreaks.

The Minister said the 21-day registration deadline ensured that all spaza shops had applied for licenses and permits at their local municipalities. 

“This registration process will give the government a clearer picture of the number of formal and informal businesses, including spaza shops, operating or planning to operate within a locality.

“The information will also be used to identify businesses that require both financial and non-financial assistance, including regulatory and compliance requirements as pronounced by the Honourable President.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Wed, 11/27/2024 - 13:37

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Vistajet Commits to Powering Trade and Investments in East and South Africa

Location: Business
VistaJet

VistaJet (www.VistaJet.com/), the world's first and only global business aviation company, has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to connecting the international investor community with markets in East and South Africa. This commitment was highlighted during its VistaJet East and South Africa Static Display Roadshow. Given their status as leading centers for economic development and innovation, Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Nairobi were selected as the host cities for the end-of-year Static Display Roadshow in the region.

After a successful inaugural roadshow in West Africa during the second quarter of 2024, VistaJet continued to expand the company's offering focused on Africa. VistaJet has significantly enhanced its offerings in Africa, achieving a remarkable 103% increase in New Program Hours Sold and a 29% rise in total hours flown across the continent in the first half of 2024.

Commenting on VistaJet's commitment to business in Africa, Phillippe Scalabrini, VistaJet's President of Europe and Africa, said: “Building on VistaJet's substantial growth in the region, the East and South Africa Roadshow is a vital part of our strategy to serve as a logistics and aviation partner that supports the success of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement. VistaJet is dedicated to playing a crucial role in connecting global funding to these regions' economic and entrepreneurial opportunities, as Africa offers significant growth potential for international ventures. We showcased our Global 7500 aircraft to link these regions with the rest of the world and facilitate unlocking this growth potential, to support the region's economic development further.”

VistaJet provided a valuable opportunity to connect with key media representatives and private stakeholders during the roadshow. The company reaffirmed its offerings during these events and showcased the Global 7500 aircraft.  This aircraft is designed to provide up to 17 hours of non-stop global connectivity, effectively linking Africa with the rest of the world. VistaJet is dedicated to meet the growing demand for reliable and efficient business aviation in Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VistaJet.

More Images: https://apo-opa.co/498qdEI

About VistaJet: 
VistaJet (https://VistaJet.com) is part of Vista (https://Vistaglobal.com/) — the world's leading global business aviation company. Innovating the industry for over 20 years, Vista's mission is to provide the most advanced flying services at the very best value, anytime, anywhere around the world.

VistaJet has flown corporations, governments and private clients to over 200 countries and territories on the Vista Members' fleet of iconic silver and red business jets, which includes the largest fleet of Global 7500s. Offering the best aircraft in each cabin class, clients can choose the most efficient option for every trip.

With a dedicated Client Services and Cabin team available 24/7, clients enjoy a fully personalized flight with seamless continuity from the ground to the air. Every VistaJet flight has at least one Cabin Host as well as two pilots in the flight deck to provide optimal safety and comfort on board.

VistaJet Program Members have guaranteed access to the Vista Members' fleet while paying only for the hours they fly — a smart alternative to ownership and fractional flying.

More VistaJet information and news at www.VistaJet.com

VistaJet Limited is a European air carrier that operates 9H registered aircraft under its Maltese Air Operator Certificate No. MT-17. VistaJet US Inc. is an air charter broker that does not operate aircraft. VistaJet-owned and U.S.-registered aircraft are operated by properly licensed U.S. direct air carriers, including XOJET Aviation LLC (DBA Vista America), JetSelect LLC (DBA Vista America), Western Air Charter Inc (DBA Vista America), and Red Wing Aeroplane LLC (DBA Vista America).

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Connecting Stories With a Golden Thread at the Joburg Film Festival

Location: News
MultiChoice Group

The Joburg Film Festival (JFF) in partnership with the MultiChoice Group (www.MultiChoice.com) is proud to announce the theme for the highly anticipated seventh edition of the festival - ‘The Golden Thread – Connected Through Stories'. Set to take place from 11 – 16 March 2025, the festival will explore the profound interconnectedness of our shared human experiences and the timeless value of storytelling.

Guided by the festival's tagline, ‘Our Stories. Our Gold', JFF continues to embrace Joburg's identity as the “City of Gold”, with stories serving as the most precious treasures that illuminate our lives and reflect the collective wisdom of our diverse global communities.

Audiences are invited to explore the essence of connection as we celebrate ‘The Golden Thread'—an elegant reminder of the ties that bind us all, a recurring symbol that represents universal themes, emotions and truths found within the world's most compelling stories.

"We are pleased to present ‘The Golden Thread' as our theme for the next edition of the festival,” says JFF Founder Tim Mangwedi. “It represents the unbreakable link that storytelling forms between individuals, communities and cultures. Through our carefully curated selection of films, we aim to show how stories, much like threads, interlace to create a larger tapestry of shared human experience. This is a celebration of connectivity, of learning from one another, and of recognising the meaningful impact our stories can have on the world.”

The seventh edition will once again bring together filmmakers, industry professionals and audiences from across the globe to share their experiences and forge connections through the universal language of cinema. JFF remains committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity and the celebration of universal human stories.

The festival will feature over 60 local, African and international curated titles, including fiction and documentary feature-length films and shorts), with several notable world premieres already confirmed. A snippet of what's in store for film, art and culture lovers.

Starting here at home with Sebata, a gripping dark South African detective thriller directed by Norman Maake and Timmy the Kid, a rural-urban comedy from director Gray Hofmeyr, that boasts a star-studded local cast.

The Man Died is a powerful adaptation of Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka's harrowing prison memoir directed by Awam Amkpa. Set against the backdrop of Nigeria's civil war, the feature narrates a tale of resistance, courage and the indomitable human spirit.

Directed by Lebanese national Mahdi Fleifel, To a Land Unknown follows two Palestinian cousin friends as they strive to escape their desolate environment before it's too late and is shot across five countries.

Under the Volcano, directed by multi award-winning author Damian Kocur, depicts the story of a Ukrainian stranded in Tenerife, Spain, after a vacation, as they learn of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Haitian born, Paris based director Rauol Peck, chronicles the life of Enerst Cole's journey as the first black freelance photographer in apartheid SA. 

Ernest Cole: Lost and Found illustrates Cole's career, peerless artistry, political strength and a moving end.

"The seventh edition will once again bring together filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences from across the globe to share their experiences and forge connections through the universal language of cinema. JFF remains committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and the celebration of universal human stories. The Joburg Film Festival is a celebration of the stories that bring us together, reflecting our shared humanity and the unique perspectives that make us who we are. At MultiChoice, we are proud to partner with the festival to spotlight the richness of African storytelling, highlighting its power to connect, inspire, and transform. Through ‘The Golden Thread – Connected Through Stories,' we embrace the idea that stories are our greatest treasures, weaving communities and cultures together with purpose and passion" says Nomsa Philiso, CEO of General Entertainment, MultiChoice.

In addition to the film programme, the festival will feature a robust industry programme in Joburg Xchange (JBX), incorporating JBX Business (market), JBX Talks and JBX Youth.

JBX BUSINESS

The JBX Market has experienced remarkable growth since 2022, with 165 participants currently registered making it the fastest-growing pillar of the film festival. The market attracts a diverse range of attendees, including exhibitors, producers, content creators, festivals, buyers and investors.

Early registration is still open for interested participants via the JFF website.

JBX TALKS - Made in Joburg for Africa and the World

JBX Talks at JFF 2025 celebrate the unifying power of storytelling and the thriving film industry in Johannesburg, which resonates across Africa and the globe. We position Johannesburg as a vibrant nexus of African narratives that transcend borders and captivate international audiences.

The three-day industry programme offers dynamic panels, in-conversations, masterclasses, workshops and networking events. Participants may expand their reach, refine their craft, and unlock new opportunities that elevate African film and television on the world stage. 

Festival badges which provide access to JBX go on sale with an Early Bird discounted price from Tuesday, 3rd December.

JBX YOUTH

JBX Youth is a new addition to the industry programme, running parallel to JBX Talks and JBX Business. It builds on the festival's anchor pillar focussed on the youth, the Youth & Audience Development Programme that is targeted at aspiring and up and coming content creators and filmmakers.

This 3-day programme will cover a range of topics and issues with the aim of developing, skill, empowering and nurturing the next generation of filmmakers to ensure the long-term growth, sustainability and viability of the industry.

YOUTH & AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME

This initiative focuses on emerging talent and aspiring filmmakers aged 18 – 35 with the aim of equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in the film and television industry.

The Programme will launch at the Kagiso Archives Centre in February 2025, with an intense two-day workshop, offering a range of activities including film screenings, director Q&As, skills-building practicals, filmmaker forums and mentorship opportunities within the community. The programme will conclude at JFF, with the JBX Youth initiative, providing youth filmmakers with further exposure to the tools and resources they need to advance their skills and careers.

The annual Young Voices Competition which forms part of the programme which celebrates the creative talents of young filmmakers in South Africa makes its return. Under the theme ‘The Power of Sports in Film', submissions officially open on Tuesday 3rd December and entries will be accepted until mid-February 2025.

We believe that sports is a universal language, allowing everyone to participate at any level, whether competitively or just for the love of the game. The winner will be announced at the Golden Thread Gala awards ceremony in March 2025, with their film later showcased at the JFF Film Society later in the year.

Mark your calendars for 11 – 16 March 2025 and be part of the 7th edition of the Joburg Film Festival. For more information on programming, tickets and how to get involved, please visit our website at www.JoburgFilmFestival.co.za or follow us on social media for the latest updates.

Together, we create, share, and celebrate the stories that connect us all...
 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.

Check out Joburg Film Festival the various online platforms:
Website: www.JoburgFilmFestival.co.za
Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/3CKyrqy
Twitter: http://apo-opa.co/4eXhJSo
Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/4i9aDNd
LinkedIn: http://apo-opa.co/4i7WXBZ
TikTok: http://apo-opa.co/4fLRr6v
The hashtags for the festival are #JoburgFilmFestival #JFF2025

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Low Credit Ratings for African Countries See High Borrowing Costs and Liquidity Challenges

Location: News

United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA)
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Low credit ratings for African countries are leading to high borrowing costs and liquidity challenges. This is according to panellists at a plenary session on harnessing sovereign credit ratings power for Africa's economic transformation, organised by the Economic Commission for Africa at the 2024 African Economic Conference (AEC) in Gaborone, Botswana.

Zuzana Schwidrowski, Director of the ECA's Macroeconomic, Finance and Governance Division at the ECA said low credit ratings contribute to high borrowing costs and more broadly to a vicious spiral of liquidity challenges as well as debt accumulation for African countries. Despite the overall challenges in credit ratings, she emphasized some positive developments and turnarounds in selected credit ratingtrajectories of African sovereigns, such as Moody's upgrade of Tanzania or S&Ps positive outlook on South Africa. However, the overall double-digit inflation prevents African Central Banks to reduce policy rates, which is another factor behind high borrowing costs and overall subdued growth, especially among resource (and fuel)-intensive exporters. 

In her presentation on credit ratings in Africa, Sonia Essobmadje, Chief of ECA's Innovative Finance and Capital Markets Section, said, “Improving Africa's fundamentals and implementing a structural reform program would certainly over time contribute to better ratings, but more importantly to sustainable, inclusive growth and the well-being of the population. The development of African national and regional financial markets should be a priority, as this would reduce excessive dependence on external debt and improve the transmission of monetary policy.”

Misheck Mutize, Lead Expect on Credit Ratings, African Union cautioned that excessive reliance on credit ratings can amplify market instability and lead to pro-cyclicality. Interestingly, it is a rule under the EU Regulation 1060 of 2009, adopted following the crisis, that sovereign credit ratings should only be published on a Friday after close of business to avoid market disruptions and overreactions as well as reduce asymmetric information, as different markets are open at different times. This practice gives the investors a chance to digest the information and undertake their own analysis over the weekend.”

For his part, Marcus Courage, CEO of Africa Practice, said recent analysis and data collected by Africa Practice and Africa No Filter indicates that stereotypical media narratives about Africa are costing African nations $4.2 billion a year in inflated interest on sovereign debt due to poor international media coverage, often underpinned by conflict and war.

Daniel Cash, a non-resident Fellow at UNU-CPR, said, “To overcome the current 'credit rating impasse', large-scale architectural reform is needed. African countries need support and investment from partners to inject knowledge, skills, and nuance into their capacity to navigate the credit rating process. 

“Now is the time for partners to come together and offer a unified service to African Countries, and the rest of the Global South, so that the new environment that surrounds them need not be so punitive and regressive,” he added.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

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Summit aims to develop actionable plans for road safety

Location: News

Summit aims to develop actionable plans for road safety

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) in partnership with Uber will on Tuesday host the 2024 Road Safety Summit, bringing together experts from across all sectors to find urgent solutions to the number of vehicle crashes and fatalities. 

The summit comes at a critical time - just two weeks before the start of the holiday season - which often sees heightened traffic volumes as holiday makers travel to various destinations. 

“With the goal of halving serious injuries and fatalities by 2030, this gathering will be a continuation of 2023 discussions and will serve as a platform to reflect on our progress, identify gaps, and chart a path forward to a safer road environment for all South Africans,” said the RTMC in a statement.

The corporation said South Africa has made significant strides in road safety. 

South Africa has set itself a target of reducing road fatalities by 50% from 13 967 fatalities recorded in 2010, according to the National Road Safety Strategy 2016 to 2030. 

According to this target South Africa was supposed to have 11 500 (18% reduction) by the end of 2023, however, it managed to reduce fatalities to 11 883 (15% reduction).

Globally only ten countries achieved a 50% reduction in road fatalities, reductions of 40–49% were observed in 15 countries, 30–39% in 20 countries, 20–29% in 33 countries, and 10–19% in 19 countries, according to the World Health Organisation. During this period, reductions larger than 2% were observed in 108 countries.

“With only six years remaining until 2030, there is still much work to be done. The Department of Transport has initiated a comprehensive, multi-stakeholder evaluation of the NRSS to assess our achievements and identify areas for improvement,” it said.

Key challenges persist in the following areas:

• Strengthening collaboration across public, private and civil society sectors.

• Improving enforcement of road traffic regulations, particularly regarding seatbelt use and drink driving.

• Expanding the availability of provincial road traffic law enforcement at night and over weekends.

• Reducing speed in high-risk areas, especially where vehicle and pedestrian conflicts occur.

• Addressing infrastructure maintenance and prioritising roads with 3-star safety ratings.

•  Advancing vehicle safety standards and regulations.

The summit takes place from 26 to 27 November in Brixton, Johannesburg.  

It aims to develop actionable plans that can be implemented within the next 12 months to further enhance the NRSS. 

The RTMC said it would further foster greater collaboration between civil society, business and the public sector to ensure sustained efforts toward road safety. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Tue, 11/26/2024 - 09:48

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SA’s MSME celebrated for their resilience and job-creation efforts

Location: News

SA’s MSME celebrated for their resilience and job-creation efforts

In a room alive with entrepreneurial energy and determination, South Africa's Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) were celebrated for their resilience and job-creation efforts at the Presidential MSMEs and Cooperatives Awards. 

Hosted by the Department of Small Business Development, the awards aim to spotlight and reward South Africa’s top-performing MSMEs, cooperatives, and ecosystem enablers driving growth and transformation. 

The Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, led the event at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, with President Cyril Ramaphosa delivering the keynote address. 

The ceremony honoured businesses that embody innovation, commitment to local development, and entrepreneurial spirit. 

Two Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to business icons Dr. Mike Nkuna, the founder and Executive Chairman of the Masingita Group of Companies, and Dr. Gloria Serobe, the co-founder of Women Investment Portfolio Holdings (Wiphold) and Chancellor of the Tshwane University of Technology. 

Arion Power, a start-up founded by three young entrepreneurs, Brian Gadisi, Alan Gie, and Themba Hadebe, emerged as a major winner. 

Their product, WiBox, a mini-UPS that powers routers during outages, has earned them two prestigious awards -- Youth-led MSME of the Year and MSME of the Year. 

Speaking to SAnews, Gadisi expressed pride in their achievement. 

“This award reassures the hard work we've put into research and development, the sleepless nights, and our efforts to crack technology often dominated by the East and West. It shows that Africa has the capability to innovate on par with global leaders,” he said. 

Another standout was Kedibone Segole, the 30-year-old founder of Moipone Aesthetics, a black-owned township start-up based in Mabopane, Pretoria. Her company, which manufactures high-quality natural personal care products, won the Township MSME of the Year award and a cash prize of R200 000. 

Speaking to SAnews, Segole encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to start small and stay persistent. 

“What I would like to say to young and upcoming entrepreneurs, along with unemployed graduates and youth, start something, work on it and believe in it. Push. Your breakthrough will come. Whatever you have, the little you have, use it. It can make you reach boundaries that you have never even imagined. 

Segole said winning the award means that they are recognised, acknowledged and important. 

“The President acknowledges our efforts, and he believes in the strides that we are making in an effort to come out of poverty, unemployment and the social ills we are affected by in the townships. It's in our hands. Vuk' uzenzele (get up and do it for yourself)!” she said. 

Segole revealed her business journey began with just R600 from a UIF payout after losing her job in 2016. With support from stakeholders like the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and Innovation Hub, her perseverance has transformed her business into a success story. 

“I was fortunate enough that along the way there has been government assistance from the NYDA, as well and the Innovation Hub, among other stakeholders. As a started, I used the little that I had and look where it has gotten me today,” she said. 

Another inspiring recipient was Dimakatso Kanyane, the 32-year-old founder of Dillets Sanitary Towels. Her innovative product, designed for African women, won the Start-up Business of the Year Award. 

Motivated by her own experience with her cycle, Kanyane developed a product that addresses a critical need. 

Kanyane told SAnews that the award was a full circle moment for her. 

“This award affirms a lot of things, that no matter how hard the journey is, with authenticity and perseverance, you can overcome any obstacle. To those who are aspiring to be on this journey -- stay ambitious, trust and believe that perseverance will lead you to the fulfilment of your dreams. 

“I used to have heavy flows and severe period pains and there wasn’t a sanitary towel that catered to my specific needs. It was this search that eventually led me to the development of Dillets Sanitary Towels, a sanitary towel designed for African women by an African woman,” she said. 

The Presidential MSMEs and Cooperatives Awards underscore the vital role of small businesses in driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and creating sustainable opportunities across South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Sat, 11/23/2024 - 00:26

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President Ramaphosa calls on financial institutions to make money available for businesses

Location: News

President Ramaphosa calls on financial institutions to make money available for businesses

President Cyril Ramaphosa has used his address at the Presidential Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Cooperatives Awards to call on banks to make money available for businesses. 

Speaking at the awards held at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Gauteng on Friday, the President emphasised that with interest rates declining, this is an opportune time to make funding more accessible to drive economic growth. 

“As interest rates are coming down and are bound to come down even further, this is the time to make finance available within obviously the various consideration that you have to take into account. 

“This is the time to make finance available and pump energy and life into our economy because when small and medium enterprises are given enabling energy by our financial institutions... they will be able to run businesses to be creative, to create jobs and our economy can grow.

“I call on the banks and financial institutes to make money available so that our businesses can grow,” the President said. 

Hosted by the Department of Small Business Development, the Presidential Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Cooperatives Awards are aimed at highlighting and rewarding the achievements of South Africa’s top-performing MSMEs, cooperatives, and ecosystem enablers who drive growth and transformation across the nation.

The ceremony honoured businesses that embody innovation, commitment to local development and entrepreneurial spirit. 

The President also took a moment to address the recent spate of foodborne illnesses that have been linked to spaza shops and informal traders in townships. He said this has thrown into sharp focus the issues of regulation, health and safety. 

At the same time, he said the issue has highlighted the critical role small businesses play in communities, providing much-needed services and supporting local economies. 

“That is why it is so important to bring small businesses into the mainstream of the economy, and that we provide the necessary support for them to do this. 

“International experience shows that MSMEs are drivers of sustainable growth. Countries with more MSMEs tend to have lower levels of inequality. Entrepreneurs are the drivers of innovation,” he said. 

However, the President acknowledged that rates of entrepreneurship in South Africa are low by continental standards. 

He told entrepreneurs and delegates at the awards that it is essential that they encourage entrepreneurship. 

“It is vital that we enable the emergence and growth of MSMEs and cooperatives. We must focus on targeted interventions to address financial exclusion and onerous regulatory requirements.

“We must provide access to funding, capacity building and other support. The success of the finalists here this evening shows that with the right support, small businesses can succeed, expand and be sustainable,” the President said. 

The President said that the Government of National unity has made inclusive growth and job creation its apex priority, and supporting small enterprises is an integral part of these efforts.

President Ramaphosa said the National Planning Commission estimates that the country needs 5.8 million MSMEs to meet job creation targets. 

The President said that this means there is a need to double the number of MSMEs in the country. 

“We are encouraged by the efforts underway to capacitate the sector. One of these is the merging of SEFA [Small Enterprise Finance Agency], SEDA [Small Enterprise Development Agency] and the Cooperatives Bank Development Agency into the newly-formed Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency.

“Of the R730 million disbursed by the new agency to date, R101 million has gone to township enterprises and R261 million to rural enterprises,” he said. 

The Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency has also provided non-financial business support to more than 15 000 township and rural enterprises. 

The President said that legislation is in the pipeline to streamline business licensing. 

An e-registration system that integrates the work of the South African Revenue Service and the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) is under development. 

“If we are to fully unlock entrepreneurial potential, there must be a razor-sharp focus on start-up growth, especially in the burgeoning tech sector. We must ensure that we are not left behind in the global transition to knowledge and innovation-based economies. 

“As part of this, we must scale up the adoption of advances like mobile payments and digitised record-keeping by small businesses,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa said he was encouraged by the work of the Department of Small Business Development and the Department of Science and Innovation around a national start-up policy.

Among other things, this policy will deal with issues such as intellectual property registration and foreign exchange controls.

“Even as this is all work in progress, we recognise the urgency with which we must scale up support for small businesses in South Africa. They are the driving force of our economy.

“The finalists and recipients of this year’s awards are a shining example of what can be achieved. Allow me to congratulate all the winners and runners-up. You have done well. You are a fine example to other South Africans who want to follow their entrepreneurial dreams,” the President said. 

The President also took a moment to thank the organisers of the awards, the generous sponsors and the millions of entrepreneurs who make the country work and the economy grow. 

“These are the micro, small and medium enterprises and cooperatives that create livelihoods and jobs. They provide communities with vital services. They create value that goes far beyond turnover or profit.

“They contribute in a million different ways to building a more equal, more prosperous and more productive society. These awards are a celebration of all the entrepreneurs in a country. It is a token of our gratitude and admiration,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 11/22/2024 - 23:01

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President Ramaphosa concludes inaugural PICC under 7th administration

Location: News

President Ramaphosa concludes inaugural PICC under 7th administration

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the seventh administration has prioritised its commitment to scale up investment in infrastructure, as government seeks to boost the economy, create jobs, improve access to basic services, and the quality of life for citizens. 

President Ramaphosa said this at the conclusion of the inaugural Presidential Infrastructure Commission Council (PICC) under the seventh administration. 

The council convened to discuss, amongst others, a plan on dealing with crime and extortion at construction sites, the level of implementation of priority infrastructure projects and programmes, as well as strategic initiatives that are being developed to accelerate the pace and quality of infrastructure investments in the country.

“This administration has prioritised scaling up investment in infrastructure, as we seek to grow the economy, create more jobs, improve access to basic services, and improve the quality of life of our citizens. 

“Continuing the work of the sixth administration, we are working to involve the private sector in achieving our infrastructure development goals. It is encouraging that after a period of declining infrastructure spend, public sector capital expenditure is on the rise for the second straight year. 

“According to Statistics South Africa, last year, public sector institutions had a combined capital expenditure of R233 billion. This is an 11% increase on the previous year,” President Ramaphosa said. 

The council is constituted by the President, Deputy President, Ministers designated by the President, Premiers of provinces, Executive Mayors of metropolitan councils and the chairperson of the South African Local Government Association. 

Per the Infrastructure Development Act, the Council is tasked with, inter alia:

  • Coordinating the development, maintenance, implementation and monitoring of the national infrastructure plan; 
  • Coordinating the determination of priorities for infrastructure development;
  • Ensuring that infrastructure development in respect of any strategic integrated project is given priority in planning, approval and implementation;
  • Ensuring co-operation between organs of state affected by projects undertaken, and
  • Promoting investment and identifying and develop strategies to cause the removal of impediments to investment.

Implementation of Strategic Integrated Projects

The council noted that there are 19 completed Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs) valued at R26 billion.

Of these projects, six are in transport, three in water and sanitation, one in energy, four in human settlements and five in student accommodation. 

Currently, 82 projects, valued at R437 billion, are in construction.

In addition to providing technical assistance and resources to help project sponsors prepare comprehensive business cases, ensuring they are economically viable and socially beneficial, Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) has played a pivotal role in supporting project sponsors to expedite approvals, authorisations, licences, permissions and exemptions with the relevant authorities. 

Over 654 requests for regulatory unblocking were lodged with ISA between 2020 and 2024. To date, 497 approvals have been granted and 157 are currently in progress.

The total project value of SIP projects gazetted between 2020 and 2024 has grown to R3 trillion, with the key drivers being the Eskom Programme (SIP 8, 9 and 10), the Embedded Generation National Programme and the Green Hydrogen National Programme (SIP 20E).

Aiding municipalities

The council agreed that there is a need to enhance the Municipal Infrastructure Service Delivery Model using ISA’s methodology, which emphasises project preparation using the Five-Case Model, which is planning and prioritisation, development of business cases, mobilisation of funds from private and public sectors, implementation of innovative solutions and effective monitoring.

This model will be piloted in four local municipalities and leverage external resources and technical capacity stemming from local and international partners. 

The following four municipalities will benefit from the “Adopt a Municipality” pilot initiative: Govan Mbeki Local Municipality in Mpumalanga, Kagisano-Molopo Local Municiapity in the North West, Umngeni Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal and Metsemaholo Local Municipality in the Free State.

This initiative, spearheaded by ISA, will address critical service delivery challenges, including persistent incomplete projects and infrastructure issues. ISA aims to drive urgent improvements over the next 24 months, with some projects being completed during this timeframe. ISA will hold further consultations on the next cohort of municipalities to be added to the initiative.

Crime and Extortion on Construction Sites

The council has lauded the contribution of the construction industry to job growth in the second and third quarters. 

According to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey released by Statistics South Africa earlier this month, the construction sector added 176 000 jobs, playing a pivotal role in reducing the national unemployment rate by 1.4% in the third quarter.

The council said the construction industry is vital for socio-economic development, employment and infrastructure improvement.

"Crime and extortion on construction sites must be condemned in the strongest possible terms," the council said, while welcoming efforts by the police in addressing criminal and extortion cases.

The council further noted that there is an indication of increasing trends in criminal activities on construction sites, despite government's efforts to embed social facilitation and involve law enforcement. Effective mitigation will require coordinated efforts from all stakeholders.

The council has made the following recommendations on the matter:

  • Law enforcement must be allocated more resources to deal with criminal activity and violence on construction sites.
  • Policy reforms in the construction sector must be prioritised.
  • Industry must adopt best practices in social facilitation and invest in security measures.
  • Infrastructure project leads must enhance community engagement and encourage communities to actively participate in project planning.

Programme of Action for the PICC Council in the 7th administration 

The PICC Council has identified eight pathways to driving infrastructure investment and growth in the next five years. 

These pathways will underpin the infrastructure investment plan of the 7th administration.

The eight pathways include:

Pathway 1: Institutional Coordination

Affirming Infrastructure South Africa as a single point of entry for priority infrastructure projects.

Pathway 2: Centralised Planning and Prioritisation

Establish a gateway mechanism for projects and programme that are deemed strategic/catalytic.

Pathway 3: Budget Reforms

Accelerate the implementation of broader reforms to enable infrastructure investment.

Pathway 4: Address Regulatory Bottlenecks

Streamline regulatory and approval processes to fast-track implementation of infrastructure projects.

Pathway 5: Municipal Bulk Infrastructure

Address funding and financing of municipal bulk infrastructure.

Pathway 6: Unlocking other sources of funding

Increase and diversify sources of funding for both project preparation and infrastructure funding & financing.

Pathway 7: Economic Regulation in Construction

Strengthen regulatory framework governing construction industry.

Pathway 8: Cancellation of Tenders, Social Unrest, Damage to Infrastructure and Crime

Improving governance of infrastructure projects and ensure close collaboration with law enforcement agencies. - SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 11/22/2024 - 11:01

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Government establishing joint fund to support township, rural businesses

Location: News

Government establishing joint fund to support township, rural businesses

Work to establish a R500 million joint fund to support township and rural businesses - including local convenience shops - is underway.

This is according to Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Thembi Simelane who briefed the media on interventions to mitigate the uptick in foodborne illnesses in South Africa.

She said the departments tasked with overseeing the joint fund are already hard at work drafting standard operating procedures and guidelines on the use and accountability of the fund.

This work is expected to be completed within the next two weeks.

“In the short term, approved rural and township businesses will be supported through this fund to improve their infrastructure, regulatory compliance and capacity building. 

“The operational fund application and disbursement process will commence as soon as the registration process is completed and will be subjected to ongoing auditing processes as an early warning system against potential anomalies and fraudulent activities,” she said.

The Minister explained that to qualify for the fund, a business owner must, among others, be “a South African citizen operating within the borders of the country and serving local communities”. 

“The business must be registered with local municipality in accordance with the relevant by-laws and have valid registration with SARS. Funding will prioritise entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 35 years old with much emphasis on female-owned businesses.

“The Department of Small Business Development has started a process to create a nerve centre with geo-mapping capacity to centralise data on the township and rural economy. 

“A national database of registered small businesses and spaza shops will strengthen our capacity to regulate the sector and to ensure effective compliance to avoid the recurrence of future outbreaks,” she said.

Delving further into the issue of the registration of small businesses and spaza shops, Simelane emphasised that lawfully, “every shop owner who is a legitimate trader and meets the legal requirements” is allowed to conduct business.

“In processing these applications for registration, the government will make every effort to ensure that account is taken of every legal prescript that allows people to do business in the country,” she said.

Since the announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa that all spaza shops must be registered within 21 days, reports have surfaced of South Africans registering these localised shops on behalf of illegal foreign nationals.

This, Simelane said, is a concern.

“This is clear fronting, and we would like to warn everyone who is involved in this illegal activity to stop. The Immigration Act prohibits any person from aiding, abetting, assisting or enabling an illegal foreigner to obtain a licence on his or her behalf, to conduct any business or carry on any profession or occupation. 

“Landlords are obliged by law to ensure that those who rent their premises to conduct businesses, comply with the provisions of the Immigration Act and the standard by-laws regulating local business in the municipalities in which they operate,” she said.

Turning to allegations that civil servants are also involved in the fraudulent processing of registrations, Simelane warned that the law would take its course.

South Africans are urged not to interfere with spaza shop registrations.

“The law enforcement agencies will clamp down heavily on extortionists who want to use this process to enrich themselves. Members of the public are urged to report any suspected corrupt activities through the National Anti-Corruption Hotline 0800 701 701.

“We want to appeal to the members of the public not to disturb the process of registration by blocking certain shop owners from participating in the process. This includes conducting unlawful inspections by members of the public, and other unauthorised bodies,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 11/21/2024 - 10:39

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SAPS: We expect everyone to cooperate in compliance inspections

Location: News

SAPS: We expect everyone to cooperate in compliance inspections

National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, has warned that the police will, through the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS), monitor adherence to the law.

This comes as integrated multidisciplinary teams undertake compliance inspections of food handling facilities, manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers and retailers. This includes spaza shops and general dealers.

The President last week announced that a massive campaign of door-to-door inspections of all spaza shops, tuck shops and other informal traders will be undertaken, starting with Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. 

This will be undertaken by teams consisting of the South African Military Health Services, environmental health practitioners, the South African Police Service, the National Consumer Council, labour inspectors and others.

The initial phase of inspections is expected to be completed within a month.

“As the police we expect everyone to cooperate. We will continue to visit warehouses countrywide to ensure that we know what is contained there, to ensure that we know what is being transported and to ensure that there is no illegal stuff that proliferate in the country,” General Masemola said.  

He was briefing media in Pretoria on Thursday, along with various Ministers who are leading the multidisciplinary teams in government, responsible for the national response to instances of food borne illnesses.

General Masemola warned that the police would not hesitate to take action if people are not cooperating or where there is non-compliance. 

The NATJOINTS has further encouraged communities to register their businesses and be responsible citizens.

“Government appeals to members of the public not to disturb the process of registration by blocking certain shop owners from participating in the process, this includes conducting unlawful inspections by members of the public and other unauthorised bodies,” NATJOINTS said.

Last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa called for all spaza shops and food-handling facilities to register with their respective municipalities within 21 days. 

Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau emphasised the importance of registering businesses and ensuring compliance.

“If you continue to trade while unregistered, you are operating outside the framework that allows government to execute its responsibility to the necessary standard that has been set. We need to ensure that there is compliance. This is to protect our people,” Tau said.

He said unregistered enterprises in the townships and in the rural areas are not able to get support from government.

“When you are registered, it is possible for us to provide the necessary support. Our laws are clear on who qualifies to register a business, including a spaza shop,” the Minister said.

The Minister of Small Business Development Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams stressed that only individuals and businesses that meet the legal requirements and regulations stipulated by South African laws will be permitted to operate businesses in the country. 

Ndabeni-Abrahams said all must be onboard to address the crisis the country is faced with.

“We need to think bigger and look at the broader picture if we want to deal with the challenge and not only target one aspect of the challenge,” the Minister said.

She said the law stipulates who can do business, whether you are South African or non-South African. “Our laws don’t change because we are faced with a crisis. If you don’t meet the requirements, you won’t be able to trade,” the Minister said.

Minister Ndabeni-Abrahams said municipalities on their own cannot verify the authenticity of all businesses and individuals.

She said they do not have the capacity to conduct identity authentication and hence they were bringing in other departments, like the Department of Home Affairs.

“Everybody running a business in the township, in the village, whether it’s a butchery or a wholesale, you have a responsibility to go and register your business. We appeal to South Africans not to take the law into their own hands,” the Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 11/21/2024 - 12:50

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President Ramaphosa to Officiate National Presidential Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises & Cooperative Awards

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday, 22 November 2024 address the National Presidential MSME & Cooperatives Awards ceremony at Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand.

This premier event is dedicated to recognising outstanding Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Cooperatives and is hosted by the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD).

The awards aim to spotlight and reward the achievements of South Africa's top-performing MSMEs, Cooperatives, and ecosystem enablers who drive growth and transformation across the nation.

This ceremony will honour businesses that embody innovation, commitment to local development, and entrepreneurial spirit. The selected finalists have advanced through rigorous district and provincial pitches and demonstrated their excellence and resilience across various categories.

This year's finalists are an eclectic group of companies that span various key sectors of the economy in both the formal and informal businesses. These small businesses have also shown a lot of creativity, ingenuity, and resilience in penetrating sectors that are normally hard to enter.

Categories for this year's MSME Awards include, but not limited to:
- Youth-Led MSME of the Year
- Township SMME of the Year
- Women-led SMME of the Year
- MSMEs Owned by Persons with Disabilities of the Year
- Cooperative of the Year
- Best Employing Cooperative of the Year
- Best Performing Rural Community-Based Initiative of the Year
- Best Performing Urban (Township) Community-Based Initiative of the Year

Small Businesses are a strategic tool for economic transformation, inclusive economic growth and job creation in South Africa. This celebration is a testament to the remarkable achievements of MSMEs and cooperatives, which have shown resilience and adaptability, particularly in challenging economic conditions.

The 2024 National Presidential MSME & Cooperatives Awards ceremony will take place during Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW), an initiative celebrated in over 200 countries to inspire and empower entrepreneurs around the world.

GEW highlights innovative solutions and resilient businesses that shape economies and enrich societies, resonating with the core values of the National Presidential MSME & Cooperatives Awards.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will officiate the award hand out ceremony to the winners, underscoring the importance of MSME development in advancing South Africa's broader economic goals.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read morePresident Ramaphosa to Officiate National Presidential Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises & Cooperative Awards

Citizens urged to allow spaza shop owners to register for permits

Location: News

Citizens urged to allow spaza shop owners to register for permits

Government has appealed to South Africans not to block those people who want to register their spaza shops.

This follows President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call for all spaza shops and food-handling facilities to register with their respective municipalities as part of decisive measures to address the recurring foodborne illnesses that have claimed the lives of children across the country.
 
The interventions, the President explained, include getting hazardous pesticides off the street, protecting children from exposure to these substances, and the prevention of future outbreaks.

To ensure compliance, the President ordered that all spaza shops and food-handling facilities must register with their respective municipalities within 21 days.

Speaking during a media briefing hosted by Ministers leading the multidisciplinary teams in government responsible for the national response to instances of foodborne illnesses, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, appealed to the people of South Africa not to take the law into their own hands.

“We know some of them might have seen something wrong being done by South Africans assisting foreign nationals to register the spaza shops, but our call and our request [is] let us not take the law into our hands,” Hlabisa said.  

Hlabisa assured that the system was not going to allow a spaza shop to be operated by a foreign national, even if the spaza shop is registered by a South African and given to a foreign national to operate.

“A person whom we registered as the owner of a spaza shop, is the one who must operate the spaza shop. If a person opts to allow another person to operate his or her spaza shop, [they] will have to go back to the municipality and get the approval.

“That is why we are appealing to the law enforcement agencies to assist in dealing with those who want to take the law into their hands…but that must be the last thing to do,” Hlabisa said.

READ I Government simplifies the process to apply for spaza shop permits

Hlabisa maintained that the 21 days given to the owners to register their businesses is sufficient.

“It takes only one day to register a business [and] people must not wait until the last day to register. If you want to do it on day 21, you might have some outstanding documents and cannot register. 

“Twenty-one days is enough, but the call is go and register your business today, not tomorrow, then you won’t have a problem in terms of 21 days...it will be done,” the Minister assured.

The government has introduced a new standard draft by-law for township economies, which offers a simplified permitting and registration process.

The move is aimed at creating an enabling environment for small businesses in townships and supports conomic inclusion, job creation and community empowerment.

The by-law was issued in accordance with the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act of 2000 by the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs on 7 November 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 11/21/2024 - 11:30

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Read moreCitizens urged to allow spaza shop owners to register for permits