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Government activities for the week 04 March to 07 March 2024

Location: News

Government activities for the week 04 March to 07 March 2024

On Monday, 04 March, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture in partnership with the Department of Justice and Correctional Services will launch the 2024 Human Rights Month at Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre.

Also on Monday, Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC Nonkqubela Pieters hands over industrial machines, agricultural inputs, and tools to business owners in Bathurst.

Monday also marks World Obesity Day.

From Monday, 04 March to Thursday, 7 March, the Department of Employment and Labour will be taking a basket of its services to the communities of eMalahleni Local Municipality, Mpumalanga.

On Tuesday, 05 March, the Electoral Commission will launch its annual national Civic and Democracy Education Tertiary institutions campaign to improve youth understanding and participation in the country’s democratic processes, in Limpopo.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Gwede Mantashe will deliver a keynote address at the 16th annual edition of Africa Energy Indaba in Cape Town.

On Thursday, 7 March, the District Development Model Presidential Imbizo will take place in  the eMalahleni Local Municipality, Nkangala District in Mpumalanga.

 

 

 

 

Neo
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 14:19

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Read moreGovernment activities for the week 04 March to 07 March 2024

Gauteng emerging farmers urged to apply for funding

Location: News

Gauteng emerging farmers urged to apply for funding

Emerging farmers in the priority areas of poultry, piggery, grains, vegetables, red meat, cannabis, aquaculture, rabbit, bee farming and agri-processing have been invited to apply for funding.

This is part of the Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment’s efforts to grow the agricultural sector, create jobs and alleviate poverty in the province.

The CASP which closes on Friday, is informed by the department’s elevated priority focus to maintain sustainable food security in the province.

“We are making a call to the historically disadvantaged and the vulnerable groups, our women, youth and people living with disabilities to apply for the farmer support grant and become part of our relentless fight against food insecurity,” said Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Mbali Hlophe, on Sunday.

Hlophe said the farmer support programme is aimed at providing Small Medium and Micro Enterprise farmers with a much needed boost towards their farming establishments.

The relief programme is building on its previous successes which has seen an average of 250 beneficiaries per annum empowered into the mainstream economy since its establishment in 2004.

The annual subsidy is available to groups and individuals as a once-off intervention so that the department can cover a wider spectrum of beneficiaries for reasonable impact.

To remain transparent, the process takes place under the microscope of an independent evaluation and adjudication panel.

The panel consists of professionals from various fields including economists, animal scientists, crop scientists, engineers, and food scientists.

Potential beneficiaries need to meet the following conditional requirements to apply:

• Application form must be signed and dated

• Registered business on the farmers registers

• South African Certified ID (not more than three months)

• Valid confirmation of land tenure/ownership such as tittle deeds, permission to occupy land and/or minimum five years lease agreement.

• Already farming

• Farming operation’s ability to create permanent or seasonal jobs

• In cases where the Environment Impact Assessment certificate is required, such evidence must be provided.

Once all these have been met, applications may be emailed to: GDARDFARMERSUPPORT@gauteng.gov.za.

Prospective applicants can obtain forms from the following satellite offices:

  • Germiston Regional Office, 247 President Street
  • Vereeniging Regional Office, 36 Merriman Street,
  • Temba Animal Clinic,Stand 16 Stellenbosch, Jubilee Road and
  • Bronkhorstspruit, 55 Market Street

SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 15:00

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Read moreGauteng emerging farmers urged to apply for funding

Nzimande condemns student killing

Location: News

Nzimande condemns student killing

Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande has condemned the killing of a University of Johannesburg (UJ) student in Braamfontein, last week Thursday.

The student was killed in a crossfire while travelling from the university to their residence in the Johannesburg central business district (CBD). 

Nzimande has also raised his concern about the well-being of another student, who was also shot in the same incident, and remains in a critical condition in hospital.

The Minister sent his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased student and wished the injured student a speedy recovery.

As part of the initial response, the department said, Nzimande will contact the head of the affected academic institution, with the view to ensure that the affected students and their families are given the necessary support.

“Further to this, the Minister will also contact the Minister of Police to assess this disturbing incident and jointly implement the necessary measures to avoid a repeat of this dastardly act.

“The Minister condemns this cruel act of lawlessness and believes that as a country, we must not tolerate what seems to be a growing culture of impunity on the part of criminal elements and a blatant disregard for human life,” the department said in a statement.

Nzimande is expected to visit the families of the victims on Monday. – SAnews.gov.za 

 

GabiK
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 13:47

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Applications Open for the Sixth Edition of Africa’s Biggest Entrepreneurial Competition

Location: News
Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH)

The Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition has launched its sixth annual continent-wide search for 10 exceptional entrepreneurs who are striving to make a positive impact in their local communities. The application form can be accessed for free on ABH's official website (https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/) starting today.

Since its inception in 2019, ABH has spotlighted and supported some of Africa's brightest entrepreneurial minds. The ABH top 10 finalists (Heroes) over the last five years:

  • have created 123,000 direct and indirect jobs in Africa
  • are serving over 37.5 million customers in Africa and beyond
  • have raised over US$153 million (not counting debt raises)
  • operate in 52 African countries

In 2023, ABH published a five-year impact report that details the impact ABH Heroes have had. The full report can be accessed here: https://apo-opa.co/3T4mErL

As ABH enters its sixth year, it is calling on entrepreneurs across Africa to pitch on the biggest entrepreneurial stage in the continent. ABH encourages applicants from all 54 countries, from all business sectors, of all ages and genders, to submit their applications in English or French. Along with invaluable benefits such as training, exposure and networking opportunities, the top 10 finalists will also compete for their share of US$1.5 million in grant money.

“Over the past five years, we've had the privilege of witnessing the incredible growth of our Heroes. Many of our Heroes have leveraged the grant funds to expand their geographic footprint, hire talent, grow their operations and invest in new products and services. It's been heart-warming to see our Heroes collaborate with each other and to tap into the ABH network of judges and experts. We are motivated to continue to play our part in supporting the African entrepreneurial ecosystem. We are calling on all eligible African entrepreneurs who are creating positive impact to join us in this journey!” says Zahra Baitie, Head of Partnerships & Programs, Africa's Business Heroes.

To date, nearly 100,000 entrepreneurs have participated in the ABH Prize Competition. Last year's winners were chosen from 27,267 applicants from sectors spanning agriculture, education and training, energy, financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. The competition cumulated in the Grand Finale, where the top 10 finalists mounted Africa's largest augmented reality-powered stage to present their businesses to a panel of esteemed judges.

Dr. Ikpeme Neto, CEO and Founder of Wellahealth Technologies, ABH 2023 First Prize Winner says: “Participating in the ABH Prize Competition has been a transformative experience for Wellahealth Technologies, profoundly impacting our journey as a startup. ABH not only provided us with financial assistance but also offered unparalleled opportunities for entrepreneurship training, networking, and exposure. I urge fellow entrepreneurs across Africa to seize this extraordinary opportunity to enjoy a wealth of benefits that can catalyze growth and success for your ventures.”

WellaHealth (www.WellaHealth.com) provides affordable healthcare plans that start at less than a dollar a month to cover care common conditions delivered via pharmacies and remote doctors. The company serves over 300,000 individuals and is aiming to reach one million within 18 months and expand to 10 million within the next five years, extending its services in Nigeria and throughout Africa.

ABH constantly explores effective ways to help the participating entrepreneurs take their businesses to the next level. As with previous years, the journey to this year's Grand Finale will also include access to a community of business leaders, innovators, industry experts and investors as well as multi-disciplinary boot camps and training sessions.

To better facilitate the engagement with entrepreneurs and facilitate applications, this year ABH will organize a series of roadshows in multiple countries, including Cameroon, Cote d'Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania and Zambia. These events will be conducted in collaboration with local entrepreneur organizations and ABH community members. Participants will gain valuable insights into the ABH initiative as well as enhance their chances of success in the competition. Further details regarding the roadshows and information sessions will be disseminated via ABH's official social media channels and newsletters.

Applications for ABH 2024 are open from now until May 19, 2024. The top 50 finalists will be announced in July, followed by the announcement of the top 10 in September. The final winners will be unveiled at the Grand Finale in November.

To apply, and for more information about ABH 2024, please visit ABH's website (https://apo-opa.co/3uUYEPD) and follow ABH on Twitter (@africa_heroes), Instagram (https://apo-opa.info/3KZTXKa), TikTok (https://apo-opa.co/48DjD7o) and YouTube (https://apo-opa.info/3YDG5bH).

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

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.

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Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH)
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Read moreApplications Open for the Sixth Edition of Africa’s Biggest Entrepreneurial Competition

Small Business Development to host Global Entrepreneurship Congress

Location: News

Small Business Development to host Global Entrepreneurship Congress

Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams will host the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC+Africa) in Cape Town from 13 - 14 March.

The Department of Small Business Development has partnered with 22 on Sloane and other public and private sector players, who are committed to advancing entrepreneurial activity on the continent, to stage GEC+Africa 2024.

GEC+Africa is a gathering of entrepreneurs, thought leaders and practitioners, who have become part of the global movement that advances entrepreneurship as a vehicle for building economies and expanding access to a better life for all.

Over 1 500 delegates from more than 50 African nations are expected to participate during the congress. This will include start-ups; small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs); investors; policymakers and organisations that support entrepreneurship development.

GEC+Africa will seek to achieve some of the following objectives:

-             Support the development of innovative start-ups and SMMEs in Africa.

 -            Create an enabling environment for African entrepreneurs to create jobs.

-             Create market linkages for African start-ups and SMMEs.

-             Support the development of a credible global investor pipeline that will invest in African start-ups and SMMEs.

-             Establish a strong GEC-affiliated organisation in each African country to build and strengthen its entrepreneurship ecosystem.

According to the Department of Small Business Development, GEC+Africa will be a platform to showcase the significant progress the country has made in producing some of the most innovative and successful entrepreneurs on the continent.

“South Africa has one of the most mature start-up ecosystems in Africa, with stronger supporting institutions,” the department said in a statement.

“The Department of Small Business Development will continue to work with its partners to create an enabling environment for the growth and sustainability of small enterprises, and to strengthen the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 03/03/2024 - 10:31

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Read moreSmall Business Development to host Global Entrepreneurship Congress

Pandor travels to Türkiye for Antalya Diplomacy Forum

Location: News

Pandor travels to Türkiye for Antalya Diplomacy Forum

Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Dr Naledi Pandor will participate in the 3rd Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF) in Antalya in the Republic of Türkiye.

“The Minister will use the opportunity of her visit to Antalya to hold a bilateral meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, Hakan Fidan,” DIRCO said on Friday.

The ADF, which is scheduled to take place from 1 – 3 March 2024, is attended by Heads of State and Government, foreign ministers, high-level officials, diplomats, non-government organisations, media and the business community from around the world.

This year’s forum takes place under the overarching theme, 'Advancing Diplomacy in Times of Turmoil'.

Pandor is scheduled to participate as a panellist on the topic, 'Understanding the Global South', on Saturday 2 March at 1:30 pm.

Other topics to be discussed during the forum include:

  • The Gaza Contact Group.
  • Building Blocks for Permanent Peace in the Middle East.
  • Realising the Potential of Africa.

On the sidelines of the ADF, the First Lady of the Republic of Turkey, Madam Emine Erdogan, will host a High-Level Session on Women, Peace and Security. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 09:33

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African academic sector preps for 40th AEAA conference

Location: News

African academic sector preps for 40th AEAA conference

Umalusi CEO Dr Mafu Rakometsi says the EXCO of the Association for Educational Assessment in Africa (AEAA) is satisfied with the progress made in preparation of the hosting of the 40th AEAA Annual Conference in August. 

The CEO was delivering remarks on Friday at a media briefing on the state of readiness for the hosting of the conference. 

“Earlier today, Umalusi presented a report to the EXCO [executive committee] of the AEAA detailing progress made to date and the tasks that still need to be undertaken for the successful hosting of the 40th AEAA Annual Conference. I can confidently report that the EXCO of the AEAA is satisfied with the progress made,” Rakometsi said. 

Umalusi is preparing to host the AEAA annual conference from 19 to 23 August 2024 at the Century City Conference Centre and Hotel in Cape Town. The conference will be held under the theme, 'Reimagining educational assessment in the age of multiple dimensions of learning in a global society'. 

The AEAA plays a crucial role in facilitating member institutions to uphold best practices in educational assessment.

Rakometsi said that having hosted the 21st AEAA Conference back in 2003 in Cape Town, during the formative years of Umalusi, they feel privileged and honoured that the EXCO of the AEAA decided to bring back the conference to South Africa, 21 years later. 

Rakometsi said this is a special birthday present for Umalusi because the 40th AEAA Conference is taking place just after the body celebrated two decades of its existence.

“... It is anticipated that the conference will attract upwards of 300 delegates, comprising assessment specialists, university academics and scholars, educationists, and policy makers from the African continent, Australia, Europe, the United Kingdom, and United States of America. 

“This will provide us an invaluable opportunity to, within the context of complex and unequal educational contexts, discuss and debates various issues of mutual interest for Umalusi and the other education systems of the world,” the CEO said. 

Rakometsi called on Umalusi partners in South Africa to support the conference by making it possible for the relevant officials to put together abstracts and papers for the consideration of the organising committee. He extended the same call to its partners continentally and globally.

The partners include the Department of Basic Education (DBE), Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), Independent Examinations Board, South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute (SACAI), Independent Schooling Sector, Private Further Education and Training Colleges and Adult Education and Training Colleges. 

“In terms of its format, the main conference will be preceded by a workshop on assessment-related topic to build capacity amongst assessment practitioners. There will be ample opportunity for interested organisations to exhibit their services and products to the approximately 300 conference participants,” the CEO said. 

Delivering his remarks during the media briefing, President of the Association for Educational Assessment in Africa (AEAA), Dr. David Njengere, appealed to all organisations involved in education and assessment in Africa and across the world to support the conference in whatever way possible.

He emphasised that one of the success factors for especially AEAA conferences is the support business entities sponsor and exhibit their services and products to conference delegates. 

“In this regard, we are calling on all interested entities to partner with Umalusi and show case their products and services. 

“Based on the report presented by Umalusi, the EXCO of the AEAA is satisfied with the progress made in preparation for the conference. We have no doubt that we are going to have a memorable conference in Cape Town in August this year,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 15:58

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Read moreAfrican academic sector preps for 40th AEAA conference

New Sage Copilot: Driving Efficiency & Growth for SMBs and Accountants with Generative AI

Location: MyPR

New Sage Copilot: Driving Efficiency & Growth for SMBs and Accountants with Generative AI Sage Copilot will lead SMBs and Accountants into the generative AI era by automating routine tasks, offering key insights for growth, and enabling better decision making and enhanced productivity. South Africa (March 2024) – Sage (FTSE: SGE), the leader in accounting, …

Read moreNew Sage Copilot: Driving Efficiency & Growth for SMBs and Accountants with Generative AI

President suspends Deputy Minister Peters

Location: News

President suspends Deputy Minister Peters

President Cyril Ramaphosa has informed Deputy Minister of Small Business Development, Dipuo Peters, of his decision to suspend her.

In a statement on Friday, the Presidency said the Deputy Minister has been informed of her suspension in writing.

The decision follows a sanction adopted by Parliament’s Joint Committee on Ethics and Members Interests against the Deputy Minister.

The Committee found that Peters had breached the Code of Ethical Conduct in her former portfolio as Minister of Transport.

Consequently, Peters was sanctioned and suspended for one term.

“The suspension, which will be without pay, became effective on 28 February 2024 and will end on 28 March 2024,” said the Presidency.

In a statement at the end of January 2024, Parliament noted the Western Cape High Court’s dismissal  of Peters’s urgent application to stop Parliament from implementing her suspension from her seat in all parliamentary debates, sittings and committee meeting-related functions for one term of the parliamentary programme.

In October 2023, after considering a complaint lodged against her, Parliament’s Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests found that the Deputy Minister had breached the Code of Ethical Conduct in her former portfolio as Minister of Transport.

As a result, she was sanctioned and suspended for one term.

In its statement Parliament said #UniteBehind leader and activist, Zackie Achmat, lodged the complaint with several allegations, including that Peters “was neglectful in her previous portfolio as Minister of Transport by failing to appoint a Group CEO of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA)”.

It was also alleged that she used PRASA buses for ANC events during 2014 and 2015 without ensuring payment from the ANC, among others.

“Following deliberations, the ethics committee found that the Member’s failure to appoint a Group CEO breached items 4.1.3 and 4.1.4 of the code, in that the Member failed to act on all occasions in accordance with the public trust placed in her; and discharge her obligations, in terms of the Constitution, to Parliament and the public at large, by placing the public interest above her own interests when she failed to appoint a Group CEO after the PRASA Board had commissioned a recruitment process, which resulted in a financial loss of R1 767 000,” said Parliament in its statement in January.

The committee advised the National Assembly that for each of the three violations identified, Peters should be barred from participating in all parliamentary debates and sessions, as well as from committee meetings and their related activities and operations, for one session of the parliamentary programme.

Additionally, the committee suggested that the suspensions for all three violations occur simultaneously during a single session of the parliamentary programme, as decided by the National Assembly.

In the response to the court matter, Parliament said it appreciated the court's sentiments regarding the importance of allowing Parliament, as an arm of State, to regulate its business without interference from other arms of the state.

“Granting relief to delay the enforcement of this sanction would essentially invalidate a decision taken by a different arm of the State, exercising its constitutional oversight responsibilities, especially given its time-sensitive nature, where there is no legal foundation to do so.

“Ms Peters will be placed on suspension commencing tomorrow, 30 January, with the suspension expected to last until 28 March,” said Parliament at the time. - SAnews.gov.za
 

Neo
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 10:15

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New Eskom chief executive assumes duties

Location: News

New Eskom chief executive assumes duties

Dan Marokane officially assumes his role as Eskom Group Chief Executive today.

In a statement on Friday, the Eskom Board expressed confidence in Marokane’s abilities, as well as in the leadership and staff of Eskom, emphasising their collective commitment to turning the organisation around.

“We expect Morokane and his leadership team to accomplish at least two critical tasks. Firstly, they must address the current business challenges. Load shedding must become a thing of the past. Secondly, they need to reposition and restructure Eskom to enable growth and sustainability,” said Eskom Board chairman Mteto Nyati.

As Marokane takes the helm, the Eskom Board has asked him to prioritise several key areas in the first 100 days and these are:

  • Assessing the Generation Operational Recovery Plan.
  • Reviewing Eskom’s unbundling plans.
  • Engaging with internal and external stakeholders.

These first 100 days are crucial for helping him gain the necessary insights about Eskom and the industry.

Eskom said the new Group Chief Executive should be in a position to engage with the media at the end of this critical period.

“Morokane has the full support of the Eskom Board. Eskom employees are excited to welcome him back into the organisation. We invite all South Africans to rally behind him as he steers Eskom toward stability, reliability, and sustainability,” said Nyati.

Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan announced the appointment of Marokane in December 2023.

READ | Marokane re-joins Eskom as new chief executive

According to the Department of Public Enterprises, Marokane is a qualified Chemical Engineer, who has a MBA and is a seasoned executive with more than 20 years of senior leadership experience.

At the time of the announcement of his appointment, Marokane was expected to join the power utility no later than 31 March 2024.

Marokane was a senior manager at Eskom from 2010 to 2015, holding various senior positions, including Head of Group Capital. - SAnews.gov.za

 

Neo
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 09:11

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Read moreNew Eskom chief executive assumes duties

Cabinet welcomes 29 May as date for General Elections

Location: News

Cabinet welcomes 29 May as date for General Elections

Cabinet has welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s proclamation of 29 May 2024 as the date for the General Elections, following his consultations with the Electoral Commission of South Africa and all nine provincial Premiers on the state of readiness for the national and provincial elections.

Briefing media on Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni emphasised that Cabinet has called on everyone, especially the youth, to exercise their right to vote. 

“Years of untold sacrifice and struggle for our freedom culminated in the right to vote for the majority of South Africans in 1994. Our struggle for freedom secured the right for every South African to be active participants in our democratic system. 

“This year’s elections coincide with the celebration of 30 Years of Freedom, which is a significant milestone for South Africa, as it provides us with the opportunity to reflect on our successes and also look for solutions to address our surmountable challenges,” the Minister said. 

READ | Landmark election marks 30 years of electoral democracy

Presidential eThekwini Working Group

Cabinet has also noted President Ramaphosa’s meeting, which was held last Friday with the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry to discuss various initiatives, led by national government, to assist the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality to address the current water, electricity and infrastructure challenges. 

“The President also established the Presidential eThekwini Working Group to accelerate the speedy resolution of issues affecting the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality. The group – comprising Ministers, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality and business officials – will regularly present progress reports to the President,” Cabinet said. 

14th Policy Dialogue Forum (PDF) of the International Task Force on Teachers for Education

Cabinet has further noted the country’s successful hosting of the 14th PDF of the International Task Force on Teachers for Education in Sandton, Johannesburg, on Monday, 26 February. 

The event brought together education stakeholders from across the globe to foster advocacy, knowledge exchange and the monitoring of progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 4 on quality education.

The Policy Dialogue Forum released a High-Level Panel Report on the Teaching Profession and also launched the Global Report on teacher shortages. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 12:05

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Read moreCabinet welcomes 29 May as date for General Elections

Nkangala residents called to attend Presidential Imbizo

Location: News

Nkangala residents called to attend Presidential Imbizo

Cabinet has called on residents of the Nkangala District Municipality and surrounding areas to attend the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo and engage their public representatives on issues affecting them.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on 7 March 2024 hosts the 12th DDM Presidential Imbizo in Mpumalanga.

The imbizo brings together leaders from all three spheres of government to interact with residents on service delivery challenges and sets out plans for service delivery improvements and community development in the area.

Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said on Thursday the DDM Presidential Imbizo and oversight visits have occurred in all nine provinces as part of efforts to reinforce on-going work of improving the lives of citizens.

All systems go for SIDSSA

Cabinet also announced that it is all systems go for the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium South Africa (SIDSSA) 2024 scheduled to take place in Cape Town from 17 to 19 March 2024. 

The three-day meeting brings together critical roleplayers in the infrastructure sector who are key to accelerating the pace of infrastructure investments in the country.

Ntshavheni said infrastructure development has been the key priority of government and the sixth Administration, as it contributes to economic growth and job creation. 

“The SIDSSA will showcase some of the progress in the implementation of the Infrastructure Investment Plan that was approved by Cabinet in May 2020,” she said.

Black industrialists and exporters conference

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic), in partnership with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and the National Empowerment Fund (NEF), will also host the second Black Industrialists and Exporters Conference at the Sandton International Convention Centre on 20 March 2024.

Ntshavheni said the long-day conference will recognise business excellence and honour enterprises that embody the spirit of success and innovation, and demonstrate job creation, good business ethics and quality.

“More than 600 Black industrial firms supported by the Department of Trade and Industry showed a turnover of about R80 billion during the 2023/24 financial year illustrating the tangible results in drawing more Black entrepreneurs into the industrial economy,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 12:33

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Gigabytes vs GIGO-bytes: The Recipe for Data Quality in 2024 and Beyond 14 February 2024

Location: MyPR

THOUGHT LEADERSHIP BY JESS CLELAND of Cushman & Wakefield | BROLL This is an article about cake. Cake made from the finest ingredients, baked using the best recipe, and so beautifully presented that, from a single glance, you just know it will make your day. Because whose day is not improved by good cake? Now …

Read moreGigabytes vs GIGO-bytes: The Recipe for Data Quality in 2024 and Beyond 14 February 2024

Dube-Ncube commends setting up of victim-friendly rooms at police stations

Location: News

Dube-Ncube commends setting up of victim-friendly rooms at police stations

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has commended the installation of victim-friendly rooms at 28 police stations, boreholes and streetlights at a gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) hotspot in Nongoma.

The victim-friendly rooms were installed by lsibaya Casino, while Vodacom installed the boreholes and streetlights.

Dube-Ncube said at least 755 survivors of GBVF accessed services in government supported GBVF shelters, with 112 964 survivors receiving psychosocial support services from the Department of Social Development and their partners.

“A total of 3 540 victims of GBV and crime accessed Khuseleka/White Door houses and shelters. District focal points and stakeholders from 11 districts were trained as master trainers,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier said there are currently 74 functional ward-based rapid response teams integrated into war rooms.

The Premier emphasised that one of the best ways is to assist GBV survivors through economic empowerment, highlighting that 26 401 women were reached with economic empowerment programmes this year.

“Three hundred women in business have been supported with card machines by the Office of the Premier. A GBVF App with a panic button is being developed by the Moses Kotane Institute, with funds from lsibaya Casino.

“We are determined to ensure that women are continuously empowered and in this regard, through the Department of Social Development, SEDA [Small Enterprise Development Agency] and EDTEA [Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental], we have trained over 500 women in business skills,” the Premier said.

She said most of these women were survivors of GBV and to this end, they have received start-up packs to set up and run their own businesses. 

Forging partnerships for GBV response programmes

Meanwhile, the KwaZulu-Natal Office of the Premier has forged strategic partnerships for the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) Response Programmes.

The office, as the coordinating office, is leading the implementation of the Provincial GBVF Strategic Implementation Plan, which was approved by the provincial Executive Council in 2022.

“These partners include the KZN Gaming Board, lsibaya Casino, United Nations Population Fund, AIDS Foundation of South Africa, TBHIV Care, Cloud Therapist, Vodacom, lmbumba Foundation, SAB, and Spar Group. This structure is responsible for addressing high profile cases and supporting District Rapid Response Teams,” Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 15:11

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Read moreDube-Ncube commends setting up of victim-friendly rooms at police stations

New Manifesto Aims To Restore Leadership Trust

Location: MyPR

As South Africa faces a looming leadership crisis amidst upcoming elections, trust in key institutions has reached unprecedented lows, according to various studies. In response to this alarming trend, there is a growing call for a shift towards responsible leadership to foster economic and social stability. According to the Institute of Justice and Reconciliation’s December …

Read moreNew Manifesto Aims To Restore Leadership Trust

KZN continues quest to remain most favoured investment destination

Location: News

KZN continues quest to remain most favoured investment destination

While unemployment figures may cause despair, KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, says the rate of investment into the province is a sign that tomorrow will be better than today.

“As KwaZulu-Natal, we faced an uphill battle in ensuring that investor confidence is unwavering, despite challenges with load shedding, the civil unrest, ageing utilities' infrastructure, some of which could not withstand the recent floods. Yet we remain determined to continue in our quest to ensure that investors know that KwaZulu-Natal is and remains the most favoured investment destination in Southern Africa,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier made the remarks when delivering the State of the Province Address (SOPA) at the Oval Cricket Stadium in Pietermaritzburg on Wednesday.

Dube-Ncube said during the South African Investment Conference (SAIC) held last year, where President Ramaphosa’s target was exceeded by some R306 billion, KwaZulu-Natal’s share included 55 companies in the province, which invested over R300 billion.

Dube-Ncube said some of the investments are located in the province's Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Richards Bay and Dube Trade Port, and around the province. 

“Targeted business expansion and retention support activities amounted to over R23 billion, resulting in 37 201 jobs being created. Added to this are investments attracted by Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN) over the last two decades, amounting to over R60 billion and creating over 95 000 jobs,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier said KwaZulu-Natal is committed to the establishment of new leather and textile Special Economic Zones in the Newcastle and Ladysmith corridor, which are estimated at R600 million. 

She said the two new SEZs will add to the two provincial SEZs of Dube Trade Port and Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ), and will create 4 500 employment opportunities.

According to the Premier, 35 Black Industrialists have been supported by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and for grant funding, and they will create approximately 4 000 jobs. She said the target is to support 10 new Black Industrialists in the coming financial year.

“KwaZulu-Natal has 35 small scale fisheries cooperatives comprising 1 000 small scale fishers registered by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. Government has rolled out training to capacitate these fishers in the variety of Ocean Economy and Maritime technical skills,” the Premier said.

Dube-Ncube also highlighted some government-led projects to create jobs, including the Port of Durban's R1.34 billion investment programme aimed at upgrading port facilities to mainly increase port capacity. This created 1 328 jobs.

The Passenger Rail Agency South Africa (PRASA) has also spent over R900 million in KwaZulu­-Natal through its capital programme on investment and infrastructure works. 

“This includes projects on rolling stock upgrades, including the Bridge City Development with a new rail network, new access gates and CCTV cameras and stations, and the Dalbridge turnaround facility and general infrastructure station improvement. These were never there prior to this government.

“In 2023, the R2 billion Dr Pixley ka lsaka Seme Regional Hospital was officially opened with 500 beds and a full package of regional services provided. This hospital has changed lives, especially in the Phoenix, lnanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu (PINK) area, and created 5 312 jobs during construction,” Dube-Ncube highlighted.

The Premier acknowledged that government alone cannot address the enormous developmental challenges faced by the province. 

“In order to accelerate development, we have partnered with the private sector to stimulate our economy. The public and private projects, worth over R129 billion, have created over 339 000 jobs,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 10:05

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Unlocking the potential of business school graduates by equipping them with ‘plug and play’ skills

Location: MyPR

By Hoosen Essof – Head of Employability at Regent Business School The demand for highly skilled and adaptable professionals has never been greater. As businesses navigate the complexities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and the Digital Era, they require graduates equipped not only with technical expertise but also with the soft skills and innovative …

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Revolutionising Courier Services: A Glimpse into the World of Modern Logistics

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In the bustling domain of logistics, there’s a significant emphasis on innovative courier services in South Africa. These services cater to both local and international delivery needs, showcasing a dynamic approach to addressing the diverse logistical challenges faced by businesses and individuals alike. Let’s embark on an exploration of this vibrant sector, shedding light on the …

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Mpumalanga ready to host Presidential Imbizo

Location: News

Mpumalanga ready to host Presidential Imbizo

Preparations are well underway for the Presidential Imbizo to be held next Wednesday at the Sy Mthimunye Stadium in the Emalahleni Local Municipality, Nkangala District, Mpumalanga.

Mpumalanga Premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane is expected to welcome President Cyril Ramaphosa and Cabinet Ministers for the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo.

About 3 000 people across the province, including traditional leaders, civil society organisations and labour; women, youth, persons with disabilities and business representatives are expected to attend.

Mtshweni-Tsipane says the imbizo is a vital pillar of participatory democracy and will offer the citizens an opportunity to engage the President on developmental issues.

“Mpumalanga is more than ready to host the Presidential Imbizo. We are inspired by the President’s decision to afford our citizens an opportunity to engage him and to share solutions on service delivery challenges. This view is based on the previous Imbizo, which was held in Gert Sibande District,” the Premier said.

Mtshweni-Tsipane said the Imbizo seeks to entrench government’s ‘Leave no one behind’ perspective, as the country marks 30 years of democracy.

She encouraged citizens to use all available measures, such as posting of messages through social media, to share with the President.

Proceedings will be shared live on various platforms, including radio and tv stations as well as a Facebook livestream on the Mpumalanga Provincial Government page and Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) social media pages.

The Presidential Imbizo affords all social partners, government, traditional leaders, civil society organisations and communities an opportunity to collectively engage on how to best address the immediate challenges and to create conditions for long-lasting stability and development.

This public participation platform was informed by the country’s participatory democracy that enjoins citizens to make their voices heard, especially in their own development and service delivery. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 09:52

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Regent Business School hosts thought-provoking webinar unveiling insights from National Budget 2024 analysis

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In the wake of the annual Budget address delivered by South Africa’s Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, on 21 February, Regent Business School took the helm in fostering an illuminating webinar. This hybrid gathering, spearheaded by the school’s respected Dean, Dr Shahiem Patel (who is also a Non-Executive Director of the Institute of Bankers) alongside …

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