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The importance of security in South Africa cannot be overstated. Businesses, high-profile individuals, and sensitive facilities increasingly require robust measures to ensure the safety of their assets and personnel. This blog explores a variety of high-security solutions, including bulletproof windows and doors, strong room doors, and anti-bandit doors, offering a comprehensive understanding of how these …
The automotive supplier MAHLE has reversed its business trend. Despite difficult global conditions and rising costs, the company closed the 2023 financial year with record sales and is back in the black. Sales increased organically – adjusted for exchange rate effects – by 8.2 percent to €12.8 billion. Operating profit (EBIT) rose from €60 million …
In a world where emergencies can strike at any moment, timely and reliable emergency response can mean the difference between life and death. Enter Integrated Emergency Response (iER), a comprehensive emergency response service that offers fast, reliable assistance 24/7. Launched in 2016, the iER app is accessible on Android, iOS, and HarmonyOS smartphones, ensuring users …
Hooligan Development, a leading South African software development company specializing in innovative digital solutions, today announced that it has been included in Techreviewer’s list of top iOS app developers for 2024. This prestigious recognition highlights Hooligan Development’s commitment to delivering exceptional user experiences and cutting-edge technology within the iOS ecosystem. Techreviewer.co is a trusted online …
SA’s tourism sector continues on a positive trajectory
South Africa’s tourism sector continues to grow and attract international arrivals from all over the world.
According to the latest official release of international arrival figures by Statistics South Africa for January to March 2024, the country totalled 2.4 million, representing a remarkable 15.4% increase when compared with the same period in 2023.
Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille has welcomed the increase in international travellers as it is a significant contributor to the economy and job creation.
“We are determined to continue with this momentum. South Africa remains attractive and accessible for all travellers to enjoy,” the Minister said on Tuesday.
South Africa welcomed 1.8 million tourist arrivals from the rest of the African continent between January and March 2024, marking a significant 74.5% of all arrivals.
Zimbabwe and Ghana stood out for their remarkable growth, with Zimbabwe experiencing a 21.8% increase in tourist arrivals to South Africa when compared to the first three months of 2023, totalling 613 675 arrivals, while Ghana recorded a 249.4% increase when compared to the same period in 2023, reaching 7 904 arrivals for January to March 2024.
“Ghana’s immense performance can be attributed to the fact that South Africa and Ghana announced a visa-waiver scheme on 1 November 2023. The visa-waiver allows for travel for periods of up to 90 days within a calendar year, for purposes of business or tourism.
“This coupled with targeted integrated marketing initiatives executed by South African Tourism to attract visitors from this market makes for a winning formula for the growth of our sector,” de Lille said.
Travellers from other parts of the world also continued to show their interest in South Africa.
Tourist arrivals from the Americas registered at 118 194 from January to March 2024, reflecting a 12.4% growth compared to the same period in 2023.
Strength in European markets
From January to March 2024, South Africa saw 420 727 tourist arrivals from Europe, an 8.6% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
“The United Kingdom remains the top European source market, with 125 420 tourists choosing South Africa, marking a 5.3% growth compared to 2023. Germany experienced a 9.9% increase in arrivals compared to same period in 2023, amounting to 98 954 tourists.
“This was followed by the Netherlands, which saw an increase of 9.9% when compared to 2023, amounting to 37 548 tourist arrivals between January and March 2024. Russia exhibited a dramatic growth of 9.6% when compared to 2023, contributing 9 329 arrivals in 2024,” the Ministry of Tourism said.
Asia markets
The Asian markets also showed significant growth with a total 49 741 arrivals from the region, representing an astounding 25.4% when compared to the same period in 2023.
“We welcomed 16 209 tourists from India; 0.9% lower compared to 2023. Notably, South Africa received 11 017 visitors from China registering a massive 82% increase in the first three months of 2024 when compared to the same period in 2023,” the Ministry said.
Middle East arrivals
South Africa received 2 387 arrivals from Saudi Arabia in 2024, marking an increase of 31.7% when compared to 2023.
The United Arab Emirates saw 321 arrivals to South Africa between January and March 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 05/07/2024 - 09:52
The investment potential on the KZN South Coast is being uncovered with manufacturing identified as a key growth sector. Prominent South African babywear manufacturer, Shiva Clothing, exemplifies the opportunities for success in the region. Established in 1992 in a garage by husband-and-wife team Dolly and Siva Naidu, the small cut, trim, and manufacture (CTM) facility …
Cape Town, South Africa – In a strategic move that marks a significant milestone in the digital marketing landscape, Ruby Digital, South Africa’s premier digital marketing agency, has announced its acquisition of web development house, WeDev.Africa. This acquisition reaffirms the Ruby Digital Group’s commitment to digital innovation and its AI transformation. Founded in 2011 by …
Countries urged to take advantage of AfCFTA opportunities
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture Acting Director-General, Dr Cynthia Khumalo, has called on countries on the continent to work together and take advantage of the economic opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The AfCFTA agreement is expected to create the largest free trade area in the world measured by the number of countries participating.
"Let us strive together to build a prosperous Africa. An Africa that provides economic opportunities for its youth and vulnerable groups within our societies,” Khumalo said on Tuesday.
Addressing the launch of Africa Month in Bloemfontein, she said the Organization of African Unity (OAU) Charter and its successor the African Union (AU) placed culture at the top of their agenda.
“As we move swiftly towards accelerating the Africa Continental Free Trade Area, we do so fully aware and taking advantages presented by this progressive continental trade arrangement that will see the heritage and creative sector benefiting significantly by doing business amongst ourselves as Africans.”
Khumalo said Africa’s story is about transformation and working together.
“I therefore invite you to work with us as we build a better Africa and a better world,” she said.
Africa Month was launched under the theme: “Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom: Building a Better Africa and a Better World.''
“The 10th edition of Africa Month Program will feature over 58 cultural activities ranging from exhibitions, performances, colloquium, roundtable discussion, film screening and culinary demonstration. These are truly pan-African activities with participation of over 28 countries from the continent and the diaspora,” Khumalo said.
The Africa Month programme is mandated by the South African Cabinet to acknowledge the work done by the African Union, celebrate pan-Africanism and, at the same time, unlock economic opportunities in line with the AfCFTA, Africa Growth Opportunity Act (AGOA) and other instruments.
The 2024 edition is the 10th edition of the Africa Month Celebration Programme, and it is implemented as South Africa celebrates 30 years of freedom and democracy.
This is a yearlong program to celebrate and reflect on the progress the government has made in improving the lives of South Africans since 1994.
“The 30 years celebration project is aimed at creating platforms for South Africans in sport, arts and culture sectors to celebrate and showcase their achievements and milestones of democracy against the set priorities, commitments, and obligations of government in the National Development Plan 2030, the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union Agenda 2063.
“The sport, arts and culture obligations and commitments, as articulated in national and international frameworks, have provided a solid foundation for South Africa to advance as a democratic state grounded in the principles of human dignity, equality, human rights and freedoms, non-racialism, non-sexism, supremacy of the Constitution and the rule of law, democracy, social justice, equity, and respect,” Khumalo said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 05/07/2024 - 14:09
Programme to bridge gap between research, public policymaking
In a move aimed to enhance collaboration between academia and government, the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) have launched the pilot phase of its DSI-NRF Policy Placement Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme.
This initiative is designed to bridge the gap between research and public policymaking, thus addressing societal challenges through evidence-based approaches.
NRF Business Advancement Group Executive, Dr Thandi Mgwebi, said the pilot phase will focus on postdoctoral research fellows and emerging researchers at a postdoctoral level to provide them with a unique opportunity to work within government departments.
“Through close collaboration with key government stakeholders, fellows will engage in policy processes and activities aligned with the thematic areas outlined in the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Decadal Plan 2022-2032.
“These areas include energy, social sciences, agriculture, climate change adaptation and mitigation, health, and other relevant fields,” Mgwebi said.
The pilot phase has seen the appointment of 14 postdoctoral fellows who have been assigned to strategic divisions within the DSI and NRF.
“The DSI fellows will be placed at the Technology Innovation and Research Development and Support divisions, while the NRF fellows will be spread across Business Advancement, Research Analysis and Advice, Knowledge Advancement and Support divisions, as well as Research Chairs and Centres of Excellence,” Mgwebi said.
The fellows will support the human capital development and social grand challenges (HCD and SGCs) five policy focus areas including research impact; internationalisation and partnerships; technology and innovations; and open science.
The fellowship programme is expected to be scaled-up over the next few years, with an open call for postdoctoral researchers to apply for the programme in 2025 and beyond.
The role of research
Mgwebi also noted that in today's complex world, the role of research in shaping public policy cannot be overstated.
She said the DSI-NRF Policy Placement Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme recognises this imperative and seeks to empower outstanding researchers and academics to contribute directly to government institutions.
“This will allow the academics to play a pivotal role in informing policy-making processes. The NRF and DSI are committed to driving national development through research initiatives that have a tangible impact on society.
"Through the creation of opportunities for collaboration between academia and government, we aim to enhance the capacity of researchers in public policymaking, while at the same time ensure that investments towards research culminates into impactful policies,” Mgwebi said.
DSI Research Development and Support Deputy Director-General, Imraan Patel said the programme fills two especially important gaps, one in which they have PhD graduates who have a lot of insight and ways of thinking that can be used by the policy environment effectively, but which cannot be extracted.
“The other in the policy environment where we have the need for deep insight into what is happening, what does the available evidence tells us, etc. This postdoctoral policy fellowship brings together those two needs into what I think is going to be an exciting and innovative programme,” Patel said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 05/07/2024 - 11:48
South Africa remains an "attractive investment destination" - President Ramaphosa
In his weekly newsletter, President Cyril Ramaphosa says the growth of South Africa’s automotive sector is a demonstration of “the potential of South Africa as an investment destination”.
The President said 2023 was a milestone year for South Africa’s automotive sector with the sixth millionth South African built vehicle exported with new vehicle exports reaching nearly 400 000.
“These figures are significant for a number of reasons. They show that our auto sector continues to grow despite a gloomy global economic outlook and disruptions to the flow of goods between countries.
“The growth of the automotive sector also demonstrates the potential of South Africa as an investment destination. It is a good example of how committed investors, supported by government policies and programmes, can achieve good returns for their shareholders while contributing significantly to the South African economy,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President pointed out that world leading vehicle manufacturers and other companies continue to pour more investment into South Africa.
“By way of example, Volkswagen last month announced a R4 billion investment to expand its Kariega plant in the Eastern Cape in preparation for the production of a new vehicle model expected to roll off the assembly line in 2027. This investment is expected to secure the livelihoods of approximately 3500 workers and support an additional estimated 50 000 indirect jobs and opportunities.
“South Africa’s value as an investment destination extends across many other industries, as local and international companies continue to either expand their investments or undertake new investments.
“Investment is important because, among other things, it creates employment, supports the growth of emerging suppliers, generates revenue for the country, and, in doing so, supports our efforts to reduce poverty and inequality,” he said.
According to the President, a recent report by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) has found that net foreign direct investment (FDI) into South Africa has been consistently positive since the global financial crisis of 2007 to 2009 – meaning more investment has come into the country than out.
“Last year, FDI inflows amounted to R96.5 billion, equivalent to 1.4 percent of our Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This supports a trend where foreign direct investment has, on average, been far greater over the last five years than over the previous decade.
“The PwC report notes that South Africa has attractive fundamentals, such as world-class financial services and communications industries, deep capital markets, abundant natural resources and a transparent legal system. Furthermore, South Africa is ‘a strategic geographical location for entry into the rest of sub-Saharan Africa’,” he said.
Addressing challenges
President Ramaphosa highlighted that although there is a “broadly positive attitude towards South Africa among investors”, more work needs to be done to ensure that the FDI as a percentage of GDP is heightened.
“That is why we continue to work to implement our policies and align regulatory and other obstacles, so that we can attract higher levels of investment. Through the auction of broadband spectrum and progress in digital migration, for example, we have greatly expanded opportunities in telecommunications.
“We have significantly reduced waiting times for water use licences and other authorisations that are so important for getting major investment projects off the ground. We are working to get rid of other forms of red tape that impede and slow down investment,” the President said.
He also acknowledged that South Africa’s electricity problems remain a “major challenge to our people and the economy at large” and issues at ports and rail are being addressed.
“Through our Energy Action Plan, we have made much progress in dealing with the country’s electricity crisis. We have seen an improvement in the performance of Eskom’s power stations and substantial investment in new generation capacity. This has contributed to a sustained decrease in the severity of load shedding.
“The work we are doing with business, labour and other social partners in improving the efficiency of our ports and rail infrastructure is also starting to bear fruit. Further progress in these areas will increase the country’s competitiveness and attractiveness as an investment destination,” the President said.
The President assured that government will continue in its path towards economic recovery.
“We will continue to build on the gains that we have made towards creating an enabling business and investment climate that promotes economic growth and creates jobs.
“It is only through attracting higher levels of investment, both foreign and domestic, that a swift, sustainable economic recovery can be assured,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 05/07/2024 - 10:27
Prize program awards Aftrak the $1 million Grand Prize to advance green energy in Africa; OMNIVAT awarded runner-up prize of $250,000; The organisations also launch a new FinTech Award in the next installation of the Prize program; winners will be selected in May 2025.
The Milken Institute (https://apo-opa.co/44yU0nF) and the Motsepe Foundation today announced the winners of the Milken-Motsepe Prize in Green Energy, a $2 million innovation competition to reward entrepreneurs working to expand access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable off-grid electricity in Africa. The winners were announced at the Milken Institute Global Conference in Los Angeles.
Aftrak (https://apo-opa.co/4bKg4OT), an initiative based out of the UK and Malawi, was awarded the $1 million Grand Prize for its easily assembled solar microgrid and custom-designed tractors, which have tripled agricultural yield, increased farmer incomes, and provided electricity to remote communities. The runner-up award of $250,000 was presented to South Africa-based OMNIVAT (www.OMNIVAT.Tech) for its containerized electricity generation and storage system, which provides clean water, clean energy, and Wi-Fi enriched by virtual reality support for remote communities.
The Milken-Motsepe Prize in Green Energy is the second in the Milken–Motsepe Innovation Prize Program, a series of multiyear, multimillion-dollar global innovation competitions and awards aimed at advancing technological progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The first competition in this program, the Milken–Motsepe Prize in AgriTech, was launched in 2021, and focused on addressing the goals of no poverty and achieving zero hunger.
Rigorous Judging Process
After launching in November 2022, hundreds of entrepreneurs from 79 countries on six continents registered to compete for the Milken-Motsepe Prize in Green Energy, and 160 of those submitted technological design and business models. In June 2023, an independent panel of expert judges carefully selected 20 semi-finalists to receive $20,000 to develop and test their innovations.
Each of the teams underwent a rigorous, independent judging process, which assessed their innovation's potential to deliver 60 kilowatt hours of off-grid electricity in a 24-hour period using only sustainable sources. Five teams were then chosen to advance to the Finalist Round. Each team received an additional $70,000 and showcased their innovations in a live demonstration in partnership with Stellenbosch University in South Africa.
“Meeting the teams and witnessing their work and determination to solve one of the biggest challenges facing Africa was truly inspiring,” said Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, co-founder and CEO of the Motsepe Foundation. “We congratulate the Green Energy winners and all the finalists. Your innovations show such promise, and we will be watching with pride as you bring your technologies to market.”
The third Milken-Motsepe Prize, focused on FinTech, launched at the 2024 Milken Institute Global Conference. The prize will award companies that demonstrate the use of cutting-edge technologies to expand access to capital and financial services for small businesses in emerging and frontier markets.
The Milken-Motsepe Prize in FinTech offers $2 million in prizes, with a $1 million Grand Prize for the winning company. Registration is open until August 6.
The transformative potential of FinTech lies in its capacity to empower individuals to start and grow a business, even in the most remote communities. By lowering transaction costs, streamlining processes, and expanding access to capital and financial services, FinTech can enable aspiring entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into reality. The Milken-Motsepe Prize in FinTech is designed to leverage the potential of FinTech solutions to break down barriers to financial inclusion and contribute to the achievement of key SDGs, including alleviating poverty (SDG 1), promoting human well-being (SDGs 3 and 4), achieving gender equality (SDG 5), and fostering viable economic opportunities for young people (SDGs 8 and 9).
Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Impact
“The impact of Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prizes goes well beyond the financial awards,” said Dr. Emily Musil Church, senior director, environmental and social innovation at the Milken Institute. “This is a global community of entrepreneurs who believe in imagining and building a better, more abundant, and sustainable world. Our role is to identify and support these bold entrepreneurs and to help accelerate their success.”
The Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Program is a program of MI Philanthropy (https://apo-opa.co/3JSwhFM), which aims to influence the deployment of philanthropic capital to create a better world. MI Philanthropy's work includes the Science Philanthropy Accelerator for Research and Collaboration (SPARC), which has, to date, influenced more than $2 billion in medical research funding.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Program.
For more information about the winners and the Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Program, visit https://MilkenMotsepePrize.org/.
Notes to Editors:
For further information or to request interviews with the winners, please send requests or queries to the media contact below.
Media Contact:
Ima Peter
+27 11 268 6388
ima.peter@razorpr.co.za
About the Milken Institute:
The Milken Institute is a non-profit, nonpartisan think tank focused on accelerating measurable progress on the path to a meaningful life. With a focus on financial, physical, mental, and environmental health, we bring together the best ideas and innovative resourcing to develop blueprints for tackling some of our most critical global issues through the lens of what's pressing now and what's coming next. For more information, visit https://MilkenInstitute.org.
About the Motsepe Foundation:
The Motsepe Foundation was founded in 1999 by Dr. Patrice Motsepe and his wife, Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe. The goal of the Motsepe Foundation is to contribute towards eradicating poverty and to sustainably improve the living conditions and standards of living of poor, unemployed and marginalised people in South Africa, Africa, and the world. In January 2013, Dr. Patrice Motsepe and Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe joined the Giving Pledge, which was started by Warren Buffet and Bill and Melinda Gates. Dr. Patrice Motsepe and his wife committed to give half of their wealth to the poor and for philanthropic purposes during their lifetime and beyond.
In the fast-paced world of business, customer service has become an around-the-clock concern. Companies that prioritize excellent customer service often turn to 24/7 answering services to ensure that no call goes unanswered, no matter the time of day. This commitment to customer accessibility can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. Key Developments in 24/7 Answering …
Introduction Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) stands as a pivotal component of modern digital marketing, influencing how businesses enhance visibility and engagement online. At its core, SEO is the practice of optimising a website to improve its ranking in search engine results, thereby increasing traffic and potential business opportunities. Despite its widespread recognition as a fundamental …
Private contractor is selling water out of trucks
Apple Music kicks off Africa Month celebrations with the introduction of cover stars on its Afrobeats Hits playlist, starting with Nigerian singer-songwriter, Fireboy DML who just released his new single “Everyday.” Apple Music has also released the Top Artists and Afrobeats Hits for the past year with the likes of Davido, Asake, Bnxn, Omah Lay …
The African Union Commission (AUC) has officially invited the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to take advantage of the hosting rights benefits of the next 2 editions of the prestigious annual All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA (www.AFRIMA.org).
In a letter bearing reference number HHS/CUL/16/170.23 and signed by the AUC's Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development, Her Excellency, Ambassador Minata Samate Cessouma, the AU said the call aligns with its policies for the strategic transformation of Africa through social integration, as outlined in AU Agenda 2063, the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance, and the AU Plan for Action on Cultural and Creative Industry.
The AU describes AFRIMA as a global platform for celebrating and developing Africa's diverse musical talents and cultural heritage, highlighting the significant opportunities hosting the prestigious awards presents for the selected host country.
"Since 2014, the African Union has been partnering and working successfully with AFRIMA to develop, celebrate and promote African music globally for the purpose of integration/inclusivity, economic prosperity and world peace via its seven core pillars: (1) Music Awards, (2) Music Festivals; (3) AFRIMA creative Academy; (4) Talent Discovery and Promotions; (5) Music Business Hub; (6) Advocacy; (7) Advisory and Policy Debates," the letter reads.
"AFRIMA is the biggest and longest running music award and platform in Africa, with a huge global appeal, diaspora audience, and youthful fans. The main event events of AFRIMA are usually broadcast live to over 84 countries around the world after a continental and global road show, with thousands of music artists, actors, celebrities, members of the diplomatic corps, professionals in the creative space, tourists, media and fans from all over the world converging on the host country."
A letter received by the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, on behalf of the Nigerian government, a copy of which was seen by our correspondent, reads, "Nigeria, as a beacon in African music with huge young population, should it accept to host AFRIMA, stands a promising chance in elevating the country's positive global presence, bolstering artistic, tourism and economic growth, fostering cultural exchange and job creation, and reinforcing a positive perception of our continent's rich cultural heritage on a global scale."
The successful last edition of AFRIMA was hosted and partnered by the government of the Republic of Senegal in the city of Dakar. The hosting rights of AFRIMA are usually bestowed on a country that shows capacity and commitment to meet up with the requirement and conditions.
The Acting Director for Social Development, Culture, and Sports Division, African Union Commission, Ms. Angela Martins confirmed the invitation and request to bid for the hosting rights extended to the two countries.
She said that AFRIMA provides a unique opportunity for the host country to showcase its rich cultural heritage, develop her music sector, promote tourism, and stimulate economic growth.
"This call to action comes as part of the AU's commitment to promoting cultural exchange, unity, and economic development across the African continent. We urge the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to seize this opportunity to strengthen intra-African collaboration (in line with AFCTA) within the music industry and enhance their international visibility positively.
"AFRIMA serves as a premier platform for African artists in Africa and diaspora to showcase their talent, gain international exposure, and connect with audiences worldwide," she said.
She added that as the bidding process is itching towards its deadline, the African Union remains committed to providing support and guidance to ensure a successful hosting of AFRIMA.
She also reiterated the AUC's readiness to work closely with the selected host country to maximize the impact of the event on the African music industry, tourism, general economy growth, and socio-cultural landscape.
Signed,
Adejuwon OSUNNUYI
Communications Officer
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).
Between April 20-27, the Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition (www.AfricaBusinessHeroes.org), a philanthropic initiative sponsored by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy, hosted 40 participants—consisting of top 10 Heroes, other finalists and partners from across Africa—in Hangzhou, China. Participants engaged in an immersive experience at Alibaba's headquarters in Hangzhou and have returned to their home countries enriched with valuable insights to further enhance their entrepreneurial endeavors on the continent.
During their visit, the ABH Heroes (spanning cohorts from 2019 to 2023) participated in a wide range of activities. These included deep dives that explored various facets of the digital economy from cloud computing, AI-driven logistics to e-commerce villages. They participated in a series of workshops and site visits—all designed to elevate entrepreneurs to a higher level of success. The Heroes also exchanged knowledge and explored opportunities for collaboration with business leaders from Alibaba and with each other. These activities provided the participants with new knowledge and perspectives that they can potentially apply to overcome challenges, seize opportunities and scale their businesses.
Diarra BOUSSO, Founder & Creative Director of Diarrablu and ABH 2020 top 10 Hero, who was among the participants in the trip to China, expresses her gratitude for the experience, stating: “This trip was so inspiring in so many ways. First, meeting all these entrepreneurs who are the top entrepreneurs on the African continent and spending a week together was an incredible experience. And second: being immersed in the world of Alibaba and all the companies Jack Ma and his team built over time and understanding the vision behind it was like a dream come true.”
In another exciting development, ABH is extending its deadline for 2024 entries from May 19 to June 9 to accommodate more entrepreneurs eager to participate in the competition. Candidates selected for the top 50 will gain access to a host of resources, including training, mentorship and networking opportunities, as well as a supportive network of fellow African business leaders. US$1.5 million in grant funding will be distributed among the top 10 finalists; the first prize winner will receive an award of US$300,000.
This year, ABH has also hosted information sessions and community events across the continent to facilitate the application process and nurture a vibrant entrepreneurial community. These events have taken place in South Africa, Kenya, Zambia, Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire, with upcoming sessions scheduled for Egypt, Ethiopia, Rwanda and Senegal. These events are conducted in partnership with local entrepreneur organizations and key ABH stakeholders including judges, Heroes and partners.
To date, ABH has received applications from entrepreneurs spanning all 54 African countries. Entrepreneurs from across the continent – regardless of sector, age or gender – are invited to participate. Applications can be submitted in English or French at: https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/en/apply-now.
Individuals are also encouraged to nominate eligible entrepreneurs who they believe are creating impactful and sustainable solutions to challenging issues here: https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/en/nominate
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH).
Press Contact:
Africa's Business Heroes Press Room:
abh.press@list.alibaba-inc.com
For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact:
English:
Tracy Walakira
tracy.walakira@apo-opa.com
French / Arabic:
Malika Bouayad
malika.bouayad@apo-opa.com
Follow ABH on:
X (https://apo-opa.info/3KY3OQs)
LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.info/3L1Cgda)
Instagram (https://apo-opa.info/3KZTXKa)
Facebook (https://apo-opa.info/3ylgNE9) and
YouTube (https://apo-opa.info/3YDG5bH)
For more information about ABH 2024, please visit https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/en/.
About Africa's Business Heroes:
The Africa's Business Heroes Prize Competition is a philanthropic initiative sponsored by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy. It aims to support, inspire and enable the next generation of African entrepreneurs across all sectors who are building a brighter future for the continent, by offering grant funding, training programs and support for the development of an entrepreneurial ecosystem. Over 10 years, each year the ABH Prize Competition features 10 entrepreneur finalists as they pitch their business to win a share of US$1.5 million in grant money.
Newly launched Dube TradeZone attracts R1.8 billion in early investment
The Dube TradePort Corporation (DTPC) has officially launched the second phase of the highly successful industrial precinct and Special Economic Zone (SEZ) adjacent to the King Shaka International Airport, the Dube TradeZone 2.
The business entity of the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government recently hosted a ribbon-cutting event where they also previewed two factories worth over R180 million which are currently under construction within the precinct.
DTPC Board Chair, Mpumelelo Zikalala, said despite the constrained economic environment over the past two years, the corporation has secured seven private sector investors for Dube TradeZone 2.
Four of these investors have begun constructing their facilities.
The total private sector investment value secured in Dube TradeZone 2 amounts to R1.8 billion and is expected to create 600 jobs within the next five years.
Dube TradeZone 2 will target investors in the manufacturing, logistics and automotive sectors while facilitating the planned expansion of several phase one-based enterprises.
The launch of the second phase of the TradeZone follows the successful implementation of Dube TradeZone 1, which has 50 investors and full tenants. These include international companies such as Samsung, Mahindra, DHL, Chem Energy and PepsiCo-Futurelife.
Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, welcomed the investment as he reflected on the 30 years of freedom and democracy.
He noted the establishment of SEZ as one of the achievements of a democratic government.
He cited this investment as an indication that SEZs are instruments for job creation and economic development.
“As government, we are focusing on SEZ for a good reason. They are designed for specific developmental purposes, to develop export-orientated industries, attract foreign direct investment and technology transfer and achieve the generation of employment opportunities.”
The MEC said SEZs are an effective instrument to resolve “disturbing” levels of inequality, poverty and unemployment, which are strongly marked by spatial, racial, class and gender factors.
In addition to job creation, Duma said SEZs are broadening the municipal revenue collection base to improve the quality of life in the municipal areas, as well as the quality of municipal services.
“This makes SEZs one of the key instruments for municipal economic growth and development,” the MEC explained.
To date, the 26-hectare TradeZone 1 has attracted more than R2.8 billion in private sector investment from enterprises focused on air-related logistics, distribution and light manufacturing.
It includes the Dube TradeHouse, a dedicated facility for freight forwarders and shippers with airside access via an overhead conveyor air bridge to the adjacent, state-of-the-art Dube Cargo Terminal.
Dube TradeZone 1 is home to notable exporters that service the sub-Saharan African market as well as markets in Asia, Europe, and the United States.
In 2023/24, Dube TradePort tenants exported goods worth R610 million.
Dube TradeZone 2, will open an additional 45 hectares of industrial land for development and brings to market another 23 fully serviced sites, which range in size from 3 000m² to 57 000m².
It will also include three Dube TradePort-owned warehouses, one of which will accommodate medium-sized businesses enabling the expansion of small businesses located in the mini factories.
The two factories include the R166-million Yangtze Optical Africa Cable plant and R17.5 million development by HRMP, a 100% Black South African-owned logistics company that specialises in the warehousing and distribution of graphite electrodes. This new facility was funded by Ithala Development Finance.
Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TKZN) CEO, Sihle Ngcamu, welcomed further foreign investment by Yangtze Optical Africa Cable, which is already producing optical fibre cables and home solution cables for the local, Zambian, Namibian and Botswanan telecommunications markets at its facility in TradeZone 1.
This latest investment is expected to deliver a further 250 jobs over the next five years.
To date, Dube TradeZone has attracted a total of R4.6 billion in private sector investment and created more than 5 000 permanent jobs. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 05/05/2024 - 08:11
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Strengthen disability-inclusive workplaces
As the country commemorates Workers’ Month, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has encouraged employers to strengthen disability inclusiveness and the economic empowerment of women and youth in workplaces.
Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Minister Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma said that as South Africa celebrates 30 years of freedom this year, employers should be reminded of the importance of building disability-inclusive workplaces that protect the rights of persons with disabilities, on an equal basis with others.
“Empowering persons with disabilities is not just a matter of gender equality, it is about dealing with the legacy of apartheid and the transformation of society, particularly the transformation of power relations between persons with disabilities, women, and men to enhance economic growth and resilience.
“Studies have shown that gender diversity in the workplace fosters creativity, innovation, and problem-solving capabilities leading to better decision-making and improved business outcomes. When women are given equal opportunities and support, they contribute significantly to productivity gains, which, in turn, boosts the overall economy,” Dlamini-Zuma said.
She argued that promoting gender equality and advocating for a disability-inclusive workplace is an investment in the future economic growth of South Africa.
As the country celebrates the democratic achievements of government, the Minister emphasised the importance of reflecting on the remarkable contributions of people with disabilities, youth, and women to South Africa.
“Equally so, by continuing to advocate for resolving labour-related challenges faced by persons with disabilities and women in the workplace, we can create an environment where we can thrive and make significant contributions to the economy,” Dlamini-Zuma said.
The Minister noted that the provision of a universally accessible environment and reasonable accommodation are at the core of ensuring equity and equality for people with disabilities to perform their responsibilities effectively.
“To strengthen social cohesion and independent living of disabilities, we all have a responsibility to promote the self-representative voice of persons with disabilities by involving people with disabilities in the planning, decision-making and execution of policies, programs, and service.
“Therefore, we ought to strengthen awareness initiatives to know more about disabilities. We must employ persons with disabilities at all levels as they equally possess the capacity to work and fulfil the responsibilities assigned to them,” Dlamini-Zuma said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 05/03/2024 - 13:16