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Sony Corporation Announces Development of Spatial Content Creation System, Equipped with High-Quality XR Head-Mounted Display and Controllers Dedicated to Interaction with 3D Objects

Location: MyPR

Sony Corporation Announces Development of Spatial Content Creation System, Equipped with High-Quality XR Head-Mounted Display and Controllers Dedicated to Interaction with 3D Objects Metaverse Technologies and Hardware to Empower 3D Content Creators XR head-mounted display and controllers[i] South Africa, 11 January 2024 – Sony Corporation announced development of an immersive spatial content creation system, which …

Read moreSony Corporation Announces Development of Spatial Content Creation System, Equipped with High-Quality XR Head-Mounted Display and Controllers Dedicated to Interaction with 3D Objects

Stylish and comfortable footwear for the novel work year!

Location: MyPR

Regain your confidence and drive in 2024 with Holsters well-groomed shoes! While a comfortable chunky sandal or basic trainer might be appreciated for a comfortable commute, the importance of a power shoe for the workplace can’t be overlooked. Shoes from Holster will have you looking stylish and comfortable whether you’re dressing up for a big …

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Some Light at the Beginning of a Dim Business Tunnel

Location: MyPR

Leading truck and trailer manufacturer, Serco, forecasts another challenging year ahead for South Africa. This is based on negative factors such as load shedding and congestion at the country’s ports taking their toll. However, CEO Clinton Holcroft is optimistic about prospects for Serco. He cites innovation and resilience as the company’s beacons of hope and …

Read moreSome Light at the Beginning of a Dim Business Tunnel

New African Magazine reveals the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2023

Location: News
New African Magazine

New African magazine (www.NewAfricanMagazine.com) released its annual listing of the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2023. The list celebrates the achievements and contributions of Africans from various fields and sectors, who have made a positive impact on the continent and the world.

The list features a diverse and inspiring group of men and women, who have demonstrated excellence, innovation, leadership, resilience, and vision in their respective domains. They include politicians, entrepreneurs, industrialists, environmentalists, creatives, scientists, educators, sports personalities, and more.

The list also reflects the shifting trends and priorities in Africa, as the continent faces new challenges and opportunities in the post-pandemic era. Creatives dominate the ranking with 31 representatives, including singer Abel Tesfaye, aka The Weekend, filmmaker Alice Diop and writer Nana Darkoa Sekyiamah.

The second category with the highest number of entries was the Business section, with 25 entries. The section included two behemoths from DFIs, supporting a private sector approach to investing: Samaila Zubairu from Africa Finance Corporation and the President of Afreximbank, Benedict Oramah, undoubtedly Africa's juggernaut from the last few years leading Africa's transformation. Also on the list is the former CEO of Eskom and whistleblower who nearly paid with his life André de Ruyter.

Nigeria was the country most represented on the list, highlighting the country's dominance in the creative sector and business. William Ruto, the President of Kenya, and Bola Tinubu, President of Nigeria, were the only heads of state to make it, along with the Guinean military leader Mamady Doumbouya. Doumbouya created quite a stir at this year's UN General Assembly and appears to have found a solution around the Simandou mining saga.

With Climate Change at the top of the agenda, the list features several players in the environmental space, such as James Mwangi, formerly from Dalberg Group who has set up his own venture fund investing in climate related businesses, and Elizabeth Maruma Mrema, the Executive Secretary of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity.

In the media, we have two media leaders from Côte d'Ivoire, Fabrice Sawegnon, founder of communications agency Voodoo, and Daniel Ahaoussa, serial entrepreneur and founder of a number of websites in West and Central Africa. Also included are the journalist Alan Kasujja, the BBC journalist, and Branko Brkic, founder of Daily Maverick, arguably the most powerful media in South Africa today.

And in sports, record breakers Faith Kipyegon and Kelvin Kiptum make it, as well as the Springboks team, under the leadership of their captain Siya Kolisi. Patrice Motsepe, the President of CAF, a close friend of FIFA president Gianni Infantino and an increasingly influential voice in sports, is also included.

The 100 Most Influential Africans of 2023 is a special edition of New African magazine, which offers a comprehensive and insightful overview of the lives and achievements of the selected individuals. The magazine also provides a platform for the readers to learn from their stories, and to be inspired by their examples.

Download the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2023 special edition of New  African: https://apo-opa.co/4aL1VB7

The 100 Most Influential Africans 2023 List:

Politics and Public Service

William Ruto

Ibrahima Cheikh Diong

Sidi Ould Tah

Akinwumi Adesina

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

Bola Tinubu

Mamady Doumbouya

Ousmane Sonko

Nadia Fettah Alaoui

Tsitsi Masiyiwa

Tidjane Thiam

Business

Mohamed Kande

Sim Tshabalala

Karim Beguir

Didier Acouetey

Olugbenga Agboola

Samaila Zubairu

Prof. Benedict Okey Oramah

Ralph Mupita

Ibrahim Sagna

Simon Tiemtoré

Jules Ngankam

Riham ElGizy

André de Ruyter

Aliko Dangote

Ham Serunjogi

Serge Ekué

Bahija Jallal

Coura Sène

Bernard Koné Dossongui

Hassanein Hiridjee

Shola Akinlade

James Mwangi

Pascal Agboyibor

Science and Academia

Anna Adeola Makanju

Chao Tayiana Maina

Nemat Talaat Shafik

Ismahane Elouafi

Moungi Bawendi

Timnit Gebru

Environmental

James Irungu Mwangi

Ephraim Mwepya Shitima

Wanjira Mathai

Rashid Sumaila

Elizabeth Maruma Mrema

Dr Musonda Mumba

Creative

Kaouther Ben Hania

Danai Gurira

Ncuti Gatwa

Black Coffee

Tyla Laura Seethal

Temilade “Tems” Openiyi

Lesley Lokko

Mulenga Kapwepwe

Alice Diop

Wanuri Kahiu

Bassem Youssef

Malenga Mulendema

Jadesola Osiberu

Editi Effiong

Ali Said Alamin Mandhry

Abel "The Weekend" Tesfaye

Pretty Yende

Julie Mehretu

Pierre Thiam

Teju Cole

Thebe Magugu

David Diop

Burna Boy

Serge Attukwei Clottey

Nana Darkoa Sekyiamah

Aïda Muluneh

Omoyemi Akerele

Mariam Issoufou Kamara

Victor Ekpuk

DJ Snake

Gandhi “Maitre Gims” Djuna

Media

Claude Grunitzky

Chioma Nnadi

Edward Enninful

Alan Kasujja

Wode Maya

Anton Harber

Khabane “Khaby” Lame

Charity Ekezie

Moses “Uncle Mo” Kiboneka

Branko Brkic

Tomiwa Aladekomo

Marie Mbullu

Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard

Daniel Ahaoussa

Fabrice Sawegnon

Sports

Francis Ngannou

Faith Kipyegon

The Springboks, led by captain Siya Kolisi

Patrice Motsepe

Kelvin Kiptum

Victor Osmihen

Biniam Girmay

Yassine Bounou

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of New African Magazine.

For any media inquiries please contact:
c.haasz@icpublications.com

About New African Magazine:
Published continuously since 1966, the English language monthly has consistently brought an African point of view to international news. It is the essential magazine for government officials, businessmen, professionals and Africa-watchers. New African is distributed in over 100 countries, and consulted whenever Africa is mentioned. The leading commentator on African affairs and Africa's best selling magazine.

The December / January 2024 issue of New African is one of the biggest of the year, most of it crammed with scintillating profiles and high-quality portraits of the best and brightest Africans of 2023. This issue will once again be a sure-fire source of animated discussion within Africa and abroad as readers discuss our choice of the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2023.

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Leveraging Learnerships for Lasting Impact

Location: MyPR

Companies sponsoring learnerships are looking beyond profit towards a better future Business success is not only about profit margins and market share—it is also about positively impacting society and contributing to the growth of future leaders. A powerful way for businesses to achieve this is by funding learnerships, where every programme sponsored has the potential …

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Small Business warns against fake Facebook accounts

Location: News

Small Business warns against fake Facebook accounts

The Ministry of Small Business Development has warned members of the public about a number of fake Facebook accounts, which purport to belong to the Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams.

The ministry has strongly condemned the fraudulent use of the Minister’s name, profile and pictures to create fake accounts, whose sole intention is to defraud and scam innocent citizens, especially small business owners.

“We would like to remind and advise all law-abiding citizens that neither the Minister nor the department will ever request ‘upfront fees’ from members of the public in exchange for accessing funding or business opportunities.

“To date, we have identified over 25 fake accounts that impersonate the Minister. We can confirm that the only legitimate Facebook account of the Minister is this one: https://www.facebook.com/stella.ndabeni,” the ministry said.

Anyone who has already fallen victim to this fraudulent activity is urged to report the matter to the police as soon as possible. The fake accounts have already been reported to Facebook. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Wed, 01/03/2024 - 09:09

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BA Systems Will Keep Our Precious Energy Resources

Location: MyPR

Embracing the Power of C-Bus, EcoXpert and Beyond In a world where energy conservation is becoming increasingly important, building management and automation systems have emerged as superheroes, ready to save the day (and the planet!). These systems, like the renowned C-Bus, offer a range of benefits that go beyond mere convenience. They have the power to …

Read moreBA Systems Will Keep Our Precious Energy Resources

Police crackdown on illegal mining operations

Location: News

Police crackdown on illegal mining operations

More than 90 people suspected of illegal mining have been arrested in various parts of Gauteng. 

In a statement on Friday, the SAPS in Gauteng said integrated law enforcement operations against disruptive illegal mining are conducted weekly, focusing on districts such as Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni and the West Rand.

These, it said, continue to yield positive results as “more than 90 undocumented foreign nationals who are suspected to be illegal miners were arrested this week, from Wednesday, 27 December 2023 to date.”

During the operations, police seized illegal mining tools that included generators, gas cylinders, jack hammers, steel balls, gold bearing material, water pump motors and two live ammunition of a rifle.

Illegal mining sites were also disrupted and dismantled.

“The law enforcement agencies will continue with these disruptive operations in the province and members of the community are called on to work together with the police in fighting crime by reporting any criminal activities to Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or anonymously give tip-offs on MySapsApp,” said the police.

Safer Festive Season

Meanwhile, police in the North West, together with other law enforcement agencies, are continuing with the Safer Festive Season Operation Shanela campaign.

The operation resulted in the arrest of 1 250 suspects between Thursday, 21 and Wednesday, 27 December 2023.

The suspects were amongst others, arrested for rape, murder, malicious damage to property, burglary of residential and business premises, theft of motor vehicles and motorcycles and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Of the 1 250 suspects, 399 were wanted for contact crimes such as murder, attempted murder, rape, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, house robbery and business robbery. Furthermore, 169 suspected undocumented persons were taken in for processing.

The arrests were made through the  execution of several actions, which included stop and searches, road blocks, vehicle check points, visiting and inspecting of licensed liquor premises, second-hand goods dealers, tracing of wanted suspects and many others.

The operation also resulted in the confiscation of mandrax tablets, crystal meth, five dangerous weapons and six handguns, among others.

Meanwhile, 52 suspects were also arrested during the illegal mining Operation “Vala Umgodi” campaign, between Monday, 18 December and Sunday, 24 December 2023.

The suspects were nabbed during disruptive operations in Stilfontein and Witrandjie in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda and Bojanala Platinum Districts. The suspects include 18 Lesotho, eight Mozambique, two Malawi and two Bangladesh nationals as well as 16 South Africans.

During the arrest, the police seized gold bearing material, a truck, spade and two cell phones, among others.

North West provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena has congratulated the police for their sterling work and dedication they have shown throughout the festive season operations. -SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Fri, 12/29/2023 - 09:07

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Centurion Law Group CEO NJ Ayuk to Step Down

Location: Business
African Energy Chamber

After more than a decade running one of Africa's most influential law firms, covering all aspects of the oil and natural gas sector, NJ Ayuk has announced that he will not make another long-term commitment to Centurion Law Group and will step down.

“I am proud of my work as Centurion's CEO – we have been able to build a historic relationship with African governments, oil and gas entrepreneurs and international energy companies working in Africa. We have hired, trained and developed more African lawyers than any other law firm in Africa. We became the first African law firm to be listed on the German Stock Exchange and have spearheaded an audacious, on-demand legal service business model in Africa,” stated Mr. Ayuk.

“I have fought the good fight, I have run the race and I have kept the faith. I believe it is time to pass the torch to the next generation that can take the firm to the next level, and I have full confidence that Zion Adeoye and his team will be able to achieve this. It also grants me much-needed time to focus on my family, the work of the African Energy Chamber and other entrepreneurial ventures and causes in which I believe,” he concluded.

Mr. Ayuk has been named one of world's top energy lawyers by Who's Who Legal, one of top 10 most influential Africans by Forbes, and one of the top 100 personalities transforming Africa by French magazine, Financial Afrik.

Zion Adeoye will be appointed as CEO of Centurion Law Group, after serving as Managing Director under Mr. Ayuk for many years. Mr. Adeoye holds an LLB from Nigeria's University of Ibadan, an LLM from Columbia University in the City of New York and an MBA from the University of Dundee, Scotland.

“Mr. Ayuk's work in building one of the finest law firms in Africa, as well as his ability to serve clients, solve disputes and close complex transactions, cannot go unnoticed. All of the employees and clients of this firm cannot thank Mr. Ayuk enough for his leadership and dedication,” he stated.

“Working with Mr. Ayuk, our team has accomplished what few gave us the chance – important legal and public policy victories across Africa, deal after deal for entrepreneurs, winning tough legal cases in complex jurisdictions while enforcing the rule of law, opening new markets and instilling in Africans the belief that African lawyers can do great things,” concluded Mr. Adeoye.

During his time at Centurion, Mr. Adeoye has demonstrated a relentless pursuit of excellence and made outstanding contributions to the firm's growth. As a seasoned attorney with extensive experience in energy law, he has played a pivotal role in securing favorable outcomes for clients across the continent.

Mr. Adeoye is a member of the Nigerian Bar Association and the Association of Independent Petroleum Negotiators. Before joining Centurion in 2017, he served in various roles at the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company Limited, KPMG Nigeria, Terra Cotta Legal, Olaniwun Ajayi LP, Templars Law and Transnational Energy Group, and has been instrumental in the reform of oil and gas legislation across several African markets.

Mr. Adeoye was additionally awarded an ESQ 40 under 40 Lawyer Award at the Nigerian Rising Stars Awards for shaping the future of the legal profession in the country.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About Centurion Law Group:
Centurion (www.CenturionLG.com) is a leading pan-African legal and energy advisory group with extensive experience in the oil and gas sector. The group provides outsourced legal representation and covers a full suite of practice areas for its clients, including arbitration and commercial litigation, corporate law, tax and anti-corruption advisory and contract negotiation. Centurion specializes in assisting clients that are starting or growing a business in Africa with offices and Affiliates in Ghana, Cameroon, Canada, Germany, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, South Africa, South Sudan, Nigeria, Gabon, Angola and Senegal.

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#BlackExcellence: Breaking Barriers to Female Leadership

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

Black women continue to break barriers across diverse industries, paving the way for future leaders with their resilience, intelligence and determination. The upcoming Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS), scheduled for February 27, 2024 in Dubai, is set to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Black women, while connecting movers and shakers from across the global Black community.

Black women play a crucial role in transforming industries, leaving an undeniable impact from entertainment to business, science to politics. In Africa, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf – Liberia's first democratically-elected female president – has garnered international acclaim for empowering women, winning the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize and today advocating for female political participation. Meanwhile, Mozambican social scientist Alice Banze boasts a 25-year career in civil society and government and is the Executive Director of the Gender and Sustainable Development Association. Elected to the National Elections Commission in 2020 with support from the Women's Forum, she exemplifies transformative female leadership in Mozambique.

Many women are rising through the ranks across industries by forging their own paths. One example is Linda Mabhena-Olagunju, the founder and CEO of DLO Energy Resources Group, who leads a Black women-owned renewable energy company that focuses on wind power projects in South Africa. Other figures like Oprah Winfrey, who has built a media empire, and Ursula Burns, the first Black woman to head a Fortune 500 company, show the strength and determination of Black female leaders.

Yet despite their notable accomplishments, Black women in leadership often encounter systemic challenges to representation. In the US, Forbes reports that only 4.4% of Black women hold managerial roles, and merely 1.4% occupy executive-level positions, despite comprising 7.4% of the American population. In contrast, in Africa, women are making significant strides in governance roles. According to data from the Inter-Parliamentary Union, four African nations—Rwanda, Namibia, South Africa and Senegal—are among the top 15 countries globally for the highest representation of women in parliament. Rwanda leads with an impressive 61.3% of female parliamentarians, yet the sub-Saharan African average stands at 23.6%.

The intersectionality of race and gender amplifies challenges in the workplace for Black women, necessitating targeted efforts to address and mitigate specific barriers to leadership. Initiatives centered on diversity, equity and inclusion are crucial for dismantling these barriers and creating a more equitable playing field. To achieve this, companies and organizations must implement policies that recognize the unique value and perspectives of Black women in their respective industries, fostering a more inclusive environment that provides equal opportunities for success.

Celebrating Black women in leadership requires creating a supportive environment for future leaders through mentorship programs, educational initiatives and networking opportunities. Investing in the next generation of Black female leaders contributes to a more diverse and dynamic future, which the upcoming GBIS 2024 will facilitate by providing a platform for engagement, inspiration and unity. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

About Global Black Impact Summit 2024:
The Global Black Impact Summit is an annual event that seeks to celebrate the achievements of the Black community, promote excellence and explore untapped potential across various fields. This year's summit is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions, and networking opportunities that encourage attendees to reach new heights.

To secure your spot at this prestigious gathering, register promptly at www.GlobalBlackImpact.com.

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One million parcels delivered: Cotton On and DPD share a momentous partnership milestone

Location: MyPR

In South Africa’s rapidly evolving e-commerce sector, the crucial role of last-mile delivery is increasingly prominent. As online shopping becomes more prevalent, efficient and reliable delivery services have become pivotal. The strategic alliance between Cotton On, a prominent fashion retailer, and DPD ZA, a leading logistics provider, particularly in handling over one million parcels and mastering the demands of Black …

Read moreOne million parcels delivered: Cotton On and DPD share a momentous partnership milestone

Over 900 Tourism Equity Fund applications initiated

Location: News

Over 900 Tourism Equity Fund applications initiated

A total of 985 applications for the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF) have been initiated by prospective applicants with 131 completed applications submitted that meet all application requirements.

This follows the opening of the TEF application process for businesses on 6 November 2023. 

The Department of Tourism, together with the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa), an agency within the Department of Small Business Development, announced the opening of the application process for TEF on 2 November 2023, after Cabinet’s approval in September 2023 for the revised TEF implementation in September 2023.

The R1.2 billion fund aims to increase growth, transformation and stimulate more inclusive participation in the tourism sector in line with the targets of the Tourism Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Sector Codes. 

The TEF is intended to address the funding challenges faced by Qualifying Small Enterprises and Emerging Micro Enterprises in the tourism sector. 

According to a Sefa report, the 131 submitted applications represent a combined investment value of just over R2 billion.

Sefa reported that some of the 131 applications formally submitted have already been pre-screened, while pre-screening for the remaining applications will be completed by the end of the year. 

Although no specific information is available yet on the type of enterprises, or the nature of projects for which TEF support have been applied for, Sefa’s preliminary report that 45 of the registered applications originated from Gauteng, 21 from KwaZulu-Natal, while between 10 and 14 applications were submitted between Limpopo, North West, Western Cape and Eastern Cape and with only one from the Free State. 

Subsequent to basic or pre-screening, Sefa explained that the applications are subjected to a due diligence process, which includes a more detailed assessment of financial viability, Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA) compliance and reporting, credit and legal checks before preparation for presentation to the relevant investment committee for final adjudication.

“Depending on the readiness of projects, the applications may potentially be presented at upcoming committee meetings that Sefa has provisionally scheduled in Quarter 4 between January and March 2024,” the agency explained.

Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille, said the department is encouraged by the level of interest and applications to the Tourism Equity Fund, which is aimed at driving empowerment and transformation to support the growth of new and emerging enterprises in the tourism sector. 

“This is in line with our aims as government to support investment by the private sector to grow an inclusive tourism sector that can continue to contribute to the country’s economy and job creation. We will continue to keep businesses and the public updated on this important project in the coming weeks and months,” de Lille said.

The TEF will be implemented by:
•  Assessing and scoring applications against jobs to be sustained and/or jobs to be created, location and geographic spread, and targeted groups (youth, women, and people with disabilities).
•  Department of Tourism and Sefa in partnership with banking and/or financial institutions in the Republic of South Africa, which includes, amongst others, banks and developmental finance institutions that will offer affordable and tailor-made financial solutions, in an attempt to close funding gaps in the market, through the provision of a blended finance solution.
•  Disbursing a total of 80% of the TEF funds to existing Small Medium and Micro Enterprises in the market to enable these businesses to grow. The remaining allocation of 20% of the funds will be disbursed to new businesses. 

The Minister said Sefa will implement, execute, and manage the fund through a fund management agreement signed with the Department of Tourism. The department will support and monitor the implementation of the TEF on a monthly basis. 

“The funding structure comprises grant funding, and debt financing, to meet the distinct needs of tourism enterprises that are either seeking equity acquisition, investment in new developments, or expansion of their existing businesses. 

“The fund will focus on tourism enterprises in the accommodation, hospitality and related sectors-, and travel and related services-subsectors. The TEF will consider applications for start-ups, acquisitions, expansion and development projects in line with the Tourism B-BBEE sector codes,” de Lille said.

With consideration of Regulation Gazette No 11067, Volume 697, No 49018 published on 25 July 2023, withdrawing Regulation Gazette No 11241, Volume 668 of 19 February 2021. No 44172, all applicants (including previous applicants) are encouraged to submit new applications that will align with the new qualifying criteria of TEF.

For more information on the Tourism Equity Fund and the application process visit: https://www.tourism.gov.za/CurrentProjects/Tourism_Equity_Fund/Pages/Tourism_Equity_Fund.aspx. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Fri, 12/22/2023 - 08:12

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Starbucks Cresta: A Recent Chapter in Randburg’s Vibrant Coffee Culture

Location: MyPR

December 2023 – Starbucks Cresta: A New Chapter in Randburg’s Vibrant Coffee Culture Johannesburg, South Africa – Starbucks South Africa proudly announced the opening of its latest store in the bustling Cresta Shopping Centre. Under the strategic guidance of Rand Capital Coffee CEO Adrian Maizey, the Cresta store became a landmark destination for coffee enthusiasts …

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SANRAL to inject billions into construction industry in 2024

Location: News

SANRAL to inject billions into construction industry in 2024

The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has started adjudicating tenders worth R6.43 billion that will be awarded early in 2024 to boost the construction industry.

SANRAL’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Reginald Demana, said the 77 tenders for various road construction projects were advertised at the end of November 2023 under the road agency’s Interim Preferential Procurement Policy (PPP) and submission closed on 14 December.

“SANRAL is currently adjudicating 77 tenders which will give the construction industry a good start in the New Year, helping to create thousands of jobs and inject billions of rands into the economy.

“While the rest of South Africa is winding down for the festive season, SANRAL is working hard to get South Africa’s construction industry off to a flying start in the New Year. The fact that our officials are working through the holidays to adjudicate these tenders is an indication of our commitment to fulfilling the promises we made to the South African public and it shows that we are getting back to business as soon as possible.

“We understand the role that construction and infrastructure development plays in the construction industry and we are determined to overcome the disruptions which resulted from court challenges to our PPP adopted in May 2023.

“We are squarely focussed on developing, maintaining and improving the national road network in line with our mandate from government,” Demana said on Wednesday.

After several court challenges launched by construction companies, SANRAL announced on 24 October that it was withdrawing the PPP adopted in May 2023 and embarked on a countrywide consultation process with interested and affected parties to adopt an interim PPP.

The 77 tenders, which are currently being adjudicated, were advertised in line with the interim policy.

Demana stressed that SANRAL was making every effort to catch up on time that the industry had lost by putting out 86 of the less complex consulting and construction tenders that were cancelled and subsequently re-advertised at the end of November.

The CEO said 1 040 bids were received for the 77 tenders and this illustrated the significance of SANRAL projects in the construction industry.

The breakdown of the 1 040 bids is as follows:

  • 124 bids for national contracts with an estimated value of R350 million;
  • 279 received for the Northern Region (Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North-West) with an estimated value of R548 million;
  • 247 received for the Eastern Region (Free State and KwaZulu-Natal) with an estimated value of R2.1 billion;
  • 240 received for the Southern Region (Eastern Cape) with an estimated value of R2.83 billion, and;
  • 150 for the Western Region (Northern Cape and Western Cape) with an estimated value of R600 million.

“We are encouraged and at the same time humbled by this overwhelming response. It also tells us that the numerous engagements we had with interested and affected parties across the country has paved the way for more effective collaboration with all our stakeholders in the industry,” Demana said. 

The official shutdown period for the construction sector commenced on 14 December 2023 and will end on 9 January 2024.

While all conventional road construction will be suspended during this time, SANRAL’s Routine Road Maintenance teams remain on standby to respond to any incident on the national road network.

“We wish to thank all our consultants and contractors for working around the clock to keep our projects on track and within budget. May you all have a well-deserved break with your loved ones and stay safe wherever you may travel,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 10:00

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K-9, rural safety units fabricate inroads in battle against crime

Location: News

K-9, rural safety units make inroads in fight against crime

The Mossel Bay, Overstrand and Swartland K-9 Units, in partnership with the areas Rural Safety Units (RSUs), continue to make inroads in the fight against crime, particularly in their communities. 

Between 4 and 17 December 2023, the units with various municipal law enforcement agencies and the South African Police Service, arrested 57 people for various crimes. 

Of the 57 arrested, 32 were apprehended in the Overstrand municipal area, three in Mossel Bay and 22 were arrested in the Swartland.

This is according to the Western Cape Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety.

“In total, 18kg of dagga was confiscated in the last two weeks, along with more than 726 mandrax tablets. Other contraband, including West Coast Rock Lobster, their tails and abalone were also confiscated,” the department said.

It said the Mossel Bay K-9 unit had various operations, which included searches at two different addresses in Herbetsdale, where a combined total of 1kg of dagga, including more than 155 mandrax tablets and 21 plastic bankies, suspected to be tik, were discovered and confiscated. 

One person was also found with half mandrax tablets at a taxi rank in the Mossel Bay’s central business district. 

The department said the Swartland units had operations in Malmesbury, Moorreesburg, Riebeek-Valley, Vredendal, Vredeburg, Saldanha Bay, Yezerfontein and Piketberg with suspects arrested for among other things, dealing in liquor, possession of drugs, dealing in drugs and possession of stolen property.

The units also confiscated 505 mandrax tablets, 4kg parcels of dagga and 3 small zipper bags of tik. 

“Amongst others, the Overstand arrests included 9 for possessions of drugs; 2 for dealing in drugs, 5 for illegal possession of marine life and 9 wanted suspects. This unit confiscated 13kg’s of dagga, 6 mandrax tablets, 32 West Coast Rock Lobster, 35 West Coast Rock Lobster tails and 35 whole abandoned abalone,” the department said.

Western Cape MEC of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Reagen Allen, commended the K-9 and Rural Safety Units for their continued effort.

Allen said the provincial government has made a commitment that the province’s K-9 and Rural Safety Units will be more visible throughout the festive season. 

“These results are testament to their activity and effective execution. These units are demonstrating what the Western Cape Safety Plan seeks to achieve, particularly since we want our residents to live in improved and safer environments,” Allen said.

K-9 unit is a specialised group of law enforcement officers who use service dogs to perform the responsibilities of a general police officer. In addition to their usual duties, each K-9 officer is also a dog handler, meaning that they have to train and care for their canine partner. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 12:18

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Radisson announces its first safari hotel in South Africa

Location: News
Radisson Hotel Group

Radisson Hotel Group (https://www.RadissonHotels.com) is proud to announce the opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, its first Safari hotel in Africa and 11th hotel in South Africa. Tucked between two renowned nature reserves, Kruger National Park and Blyde River Canyon, the hotel is located 2km outside of Hoedspruit in the heart of the grasslands in the Limpopo province and just 20 minutes from Eastgate Airport.

Boasting majestic views of the Drakensberg mountains, the highest mountain range in Southern Africa, Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit (https://apo-opa.co/3TEcOPf) is surrounded by endless destination-immersing activities. Guests can take part in bucket-list safari adventures to spot local wildlife such as lions, rhinoceros, and elephants, go trekking on horseback, or take in the sprawling landscape from a hot air balloon.

Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit offers a range of room types from standard rooms with garden and mountain views to Premium Suites featuring their own private pools and relaxing outdoor seating areas to take in the natural landscape. With a contemporary Scandinavian design, the hotels 138 rooms and suites provide a calming setting with natural materials, wooden details and rich, earthy colors that pay homage to its African surroundings.

At the thatched roof restaurant, Mirage, guests can enjoy South African and Lebanese-inspired cuisine on the restaurant's wrap-around deck, with convenient access to a sunbathing area and pool in the summer, as well as an outdoor fireplace on cooler evenings. Pegasus restaurant offers fresh and wholesome Mediterranean, Italian, Mexican, and American-inspired dishes as well as gourmet ice cream and frozen cocktails, served alongside the adults-only swimming pool. At the hotel's third restaurant, Boma, guests can indulge in some of Africa's most popular delicacies such as the local sausage, Boerewors; Bobotie; and selection of game meat, while listening to the soothing crackling of the fire and stargazing in the clear night's sky.

“We are thrilled to open the doors of our first safari-inspired hotel in South Africa. The opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit marks our 11th hotel opening in South Africa and completes our own Golden Triangle Safari offering with exquisite properties in Cape Town and the recently opened Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-oa-Tunya in Livingstone,” said Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East & Africa, Radisson Hotel Group.

“My team and I are thrilled to introduce the world to the perfect combination of hospitality with Radisson's renowned Yes I Can! Service philosophy and our unmatched safari-inspired setting. Our extensive offering will ensure guests have an unforgettable experience whether they are enjoying a family holiday, a serene couples escape, or a meeting and event in a unique backdrop,” said Charles McCarthy, General Manager of Radisson Hotel Safari Hoedspruit.

Featuring a planter roof and inspiring views of the surrounding grasslands, Radisson Hotel Safari Hoedspruit will offer a tranquil and rejuvenating escape at its Amani Spa. Guests can indulge in a variety of pampering treatments in the spa's five treatment rooms including a private couple's suite. The spa also features a health bar, hair and nail salon and a soothing steam room. A 24-hour fitness center is also accessible to guests looking to stay active during their stay and offers the latest modern cardio and strength training equipment as well as yoga or Tai Chi sessions tucked away among the grasslands.

The hotel's versatile meetings and events spaces consist of five different meeting venues, including comfortable boardrooms, meeting rooms, and a main banquet hall that can accommodate up to 200 guests.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Radisson Hotel Group.

Media contact:
Saadiyah Hendricks
Area Director, PR & Social Media, Middle East, Africa and Mediterranean
Radisson Hotel Group
saadiyah.hendricks@radissonhotels.com

Nataliya Tkachenko
Senior Global Manager Consumer PR
Radisson Hotel Group
nataliya.tkachenko@radissonhotels.com

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Connect with Radisson on: 
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Radisson Hotel Group: 
The Radisson family of brands can be found around the world in more than 120 countries, with currently over 1,700 hotels in operation and under development. Radisson Hotel Group operates the business in EMEA and APAC with over 1,150 hotels in operation and under development. The international hotel group is rapidly growing with a plan to significantly grow the portfolio. The Group's overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos. 

The Radisson family of brands portfolio includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.  

Radisson Rewards (https://apo-opa.info/3Ir36tx) is Radisson Hotel Group's loyalty program, which delivers an elevated experience that makes Every Moment Matter. As the most streamlined program in the sector, members enjoy exceptional advantages and can access their benefits from day one across a wide range of hotels in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. 

Radisson Meetings (https://apo-opa.info/3xmLTuL) provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely 100% Carbon Neutral.  

At Radisson Hotel Group we care for people, communities and planet (https://apo-opa.info/40VCkR2) and aim to be Net Zero by 2050 based on the approved near-term Science Based Targets. With unique solutions such as 100% carbon neutral Radisson Meetings, we make sustainable hotel stays easy. To facilitate sustainable travel choices, all our hotels are becoming verified on Hotel Sustainability Basics. 

The health and safety of guests and team members remain a top priority for Radisson Hotel Group. All properties across the Group's portfolio are subject to health and safety requirements, ensuring we always care for our guests and team members. 

For more information, visit our corporate website (https://apo-opa.info/42HIP9S). 

About Radisson: 
Radisson is an upscale hotel brand that offers Scandinavian inspired hospitality, which enables guests to find more harmony in their travel experience. With natural surroundings and unexpected delights, Radisson inspires the art of being in the moment. We are committed to helping our guests find the right balance for their stay, removing the discomforts travelling may bring and enabling them to switch off and relax, using our Yes I Can! attitude to ensure satisfaction of every guest. Radisson hotels can be found in suburban and city settings, near airports and leisure destinations. Guests and professional business partners can enhance their experience with Radisson by participating in Radisson Rewards, an international loyalty program offering exceptional benefits and rewards. 

Radisson is part of the Radisson family of brands, which also includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels. 

For reservations and more information, visit our website (https://apo-opa.info/3p4KNn5). 

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