Court Criticises PRASA for Illegal Evictions
Ndifuna Ukwazi’s urgent application for interdict on behalf of Foreshore land occupiers continues
Cape Town
Government remains committed to establishing Sovereign Wealth Fund
Government remains committed to establishing Sovereign Wealth Fund
President Cyril Ramaphosa says government remains committed to creating a Sovereign Wealth Fund which will benefit future generations, however, the conditions do not currently exist to establish an immediate one.
The President was responding to questions for oral reply in the National Assembly in Parliament, Cape Town on Thursday. This was his first such session under the Government of National Unity.
Member of Parliament Joseph Maswanganyi asked President Ramaphosa how government will develop the Sovereign Wealth Fund and ensure that its development benefits the majority of the people of the Republic.
“We are committed to create a Sovereign Wealth Fund and we believe that the architecture that we are putting together now will be able to assist us in building a Sovereign Wealth Fund. This we will be doing for future generations because it takes quite a while to build a facility like a Sovereign World Fund.
“While conditions do not currently exist for the immediate establishment of a Sovereign Wealth Fund, this is an objective which we should continue to work towards. Such a fund could help to ensure that the national wealth of our country is effectively used to support economic and social development for years to come,” the President said.
On whether the fund will benefit the majority of the people of South Africa, President Ramaphosa said the fund is meant to achieve precisely that purpose.
“The Sovereign Wealth Fund should be seen as a contributor to economic development and as a vehicle through which the state can invest money that is in surplus and can be utilised for various economic projects. It could be specific economic sectors that it focuses on and could also be funding, or surplus money utilised to invest in other countries and companies.
“The fund in my view is the way to go and we now have better architectural opportunity to be able to do so rather than just to continue talking about it without knowing exactly how it will source money and how it will be structured.
“Setting up a Sovereign Wealth Fund is a project we will work on as we improve our state-owned enterprises (SOEs),” the President said.
Explaining how the Sovereign Wealth Fund will work, he said they are by nature often used by many countries across the world to harness national resources for economic as well as for social development.
He added that they are often used to preserve and to grow a country's wealth for the benefit of future generations.
A document published in December of 2021 by the National Treasury described some of the features of a Sovereign Wealth Fund, saying that such a fund is often a state-owned company that would accumulate resources for capital investment through a dedicated revenue instrument or instruments.
“It will then invest these resources in different asset classes. Countries with Sovereign Wealth Funds - there is quite a number of them around the world - often maintain surpluses in their current accounts and balance sheets or balances, this provides the fiscal space to establish a Sovereign Wealth Fund.
“At present, with our current fiscal position, with substantial current accounts and budget deficits it is currently not the most opportune or favourable time for us to establish the fund, however, there are a number of options that are under consideration,” the President said.
He emphasised that funding for service delivery remains under pressure, with additional resources required to improve the recruitment of key personnel such as police and teachers.
He said that the country also needs to increase investment in the maintenance of basic service infrastructure.
“In light of these realities, the most appropriated policy path for us is to use any additional resources at this moment to reduce the debt burden that our country carries and improve the delivery of services.
Among other questions, the President also briefed Parliament on steps government is taking to encourage private sector investment to improve ports, railways and other infrastructure to drive economic growth. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 08/29/2024 - 15:25
335 views
Government remains committed to establish a Sovereign Wealth Fund
Government remains committed to establish a Sovereign Wealth Fund
President Cyril Ramaphosa says government remains committed to creating a Sovereign Wealth Fund which will benefit future generations, however, the conditions do not currently exist to establish an immediate one.
The President was responding to questions for oral reply in the National Assembly in Parliament, Cape Town on Thursday. This was his first such session under the Government of National Unity.
Member of Parliament Joseph Maswanganyi asked President Ramaphosa how government will develop the Sovereign Wealth Fund and ensure that its development benefits the majority of the people of the Republic.
“We are committed to create a Sovereign Wealth Fund and we believe that the architecture that we are putting together now will be able to assist us in building a Sovereign Wealth Fund. This we will be doing for future generations because it takes quite a while to build a facility like a Sovereign World Fund.
“While conditions do not currently exist for the immediate establishment of a Sovereign Wealth Fund, this is an objective which we should continue to work towards. Such a fund could help to ensure that the national wealth of our country is effectively used to support economic and social development for years to come,” the President said.
On whether the fund will benefit the majority of the people of South Africa, President Ramaphosa said the fund is meant to achieve precisely that purpose.
“The Sovereign Wealth Fund should be seen as a contributor to economic development and as a vehicle through which the state can invest money that is in surplus and can be utilised for various economic projects. It could be specific economic sectors that it focuses on and could also be funding, or surplus money utilised to invest in other countries and companies.
“The fund in my view is the way to go and we now have better architectural opportunity to be able to do so rather than just to continue talking about it without knowing exactly how it will source money and how it will be structured.
“Setting up a Sovereign Wealth Fund is a project we will work on as we improve our state-owned enterprises (SOEs),” the President said.
Explaining how the Sovereign Wealth Fund will work, he said they are by nature often used by many countries across the world to harness national resources for economic as well as for social development.
He added that they are often used to preserve and to grow a country's wealth for the benefit of future generations.
A document published in December of 2021 by the National Treasury described some of the features of a Sovereign Wealth Fund, saying that such a fund is often a state-owned company that would accumulate resources for capital investment through a dedicated revenue instrument or instruments.
“It will then invest these resources in different asset classes. Countries with Sovereign Wealth Funds - there is quite a number of them around the world - often maintain surpluses in their current accounts and balance sheets or balances, this provides the fiscal space to establish a Sovereign Wealth Fund.
“At present, with our current fiscal position, with substantial current accounts and budget deficits it is currently not the most opportune or favourable time for us to establish the fund, however, there are a number of options that are under consideration,” the President said.
He emphasised that funding for service delivery remains under pressure, with additional resources required to improve the recruitment of key personnel such as police and teachers.
He said that the country also needs to increase investment in the maintenance of basic service infrastructure.
“In light of these realities, the most appropriated policy path for us is to use any additional resources at this moment to reduce the debt burden that our country carries and improve the delivery of services.
Among other questions, the President also briefed Parliament on steps government is taking to encourage private sector investment to improve ports, railways and other infrastructure to drive economic growth. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 08/29/2024 - 15:25
77 views
Anti-crime agreement to enhance collaboration, coordination
Anti-crime agreement to enhance collaboration, coordination
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to attend and deliver the keynote address at the signing of the Cooperation Agreement to Combat Crime to be held in Cape Town on Friday.
The signing is expected to be led by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, Western Cape Premier Alan Winde and City of Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.
“The cooperation agreement aims to enhance collaboration and coordination among all stakeholders in the region to address safety and security concerns effectively. It will also focus on community-driven initiatives, the integration of resources, and the development of innovative strategies to combat crime and promote public safety.
“This is also in line with the Constitutional mandate of the South African Police Service, which is to prevent, combat, and investigate crime and to protect the inhabitants of the Republic of South Africa,” the Presidency said in a statement.
The signing of the cooperation comes after engagements with community this week.
“This significant event follows a stakeholder engagement held on the 27th of August 2024, which saw a robust and productive dialogue with representatives from Community Policing Forums (CPF), spiritual organisations, and the business community,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 08/29/2024 - 14:05
17 views
Unlocking Productivity Potential in the Western Cape!
Media Invitation: Unlocking Productivity Potential In The Western Cape! Join us for an engaging and impactful event as Productivity SA, in collaboration with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), present the Western Cape Workplace Challenge Programme Milestone Workshop. Date: Friday, 30th August 2024 Venue: The Old Biscuit Mill, 375 Albert Rd, Woodstock, …
Tenders issued to appoint independent investigator into Telkom Towers
Tenders issued to appoint independent investigator into Telkom Towers
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson says his department has issued tenders for the appointment of an independent investigator to, within 60 days following their appointment, provide a detailed report on what went wrong with the Telkom Towers building in Pretoria.
According to Macpherson, the report should detail who is to blame and what will be the best solution moving forward for the Telkom Towers to limit further wastage of taxpayer money.
Earlier this month, the Minister conducted an oversight inspection at the Telkom Towers.
The building was procured to serve as the South African Police headquarters in 2016 to the tune of nearly R700 million. Officials say to date, over R200 million has been spent on renovations and other services but the building remains empty due to lapses.
Addressing the media in Cape Town on Wednesday, Macpherson said in the coming weeks, a tender for a second independent investigation will be released to investigate leases which have been established by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to ensure that these leases were completed within the confines of the law and that the state is paying market-related prices for each.
“Shortly after my appointment, we initiated an investigation into an R300 million IT security breach that spans a decade. The investigation builds on the work Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala started earlier this year when vulnerabilities were discovered in the department’s Information and Technology Systems,” the Minister said.
Macpherson said preliminary reports since the extent of the security breach was found suggest that the amount of money stolen over the period confirms the seriousness of the matter.
He has also authorised the department’s legal services to assist the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) with litigation at the Special Tribunal to recover up to R20 million against Kroucamp Plumbers.
“This case involves tenders received by Kroucamp Plumbers in 2015 and 2018, where procurement processes were found to be unlawful and unconstitutional.
“The SIU discovered that payments were made to officials in our department amounting to over R300 000, and these actions are indicative of corruption that we are determined to root out,” the Minister said.
Macpherson said his goal is to make the department play a central role in using public assets for the public good and to help turn South Africa into a construction site which will ignite economic growth and create jobs.
“Over the past eight weeks, I believe we have started to lay the foundation for the work to begin to see cranes in the sky all over South Africa,” Macpherson said.
Central to the department’s strategy for increased infrastructure investment is to see the expansion and the capacitation of Infrastructure South Africa (ISA).
“We want to ensure that ISA functions as the single point of entry for all priority infrastructure projects, streamlining processes and reducing inefficiencies that have previously hampered project delivery,” Macpherson said.
This will not only improve efficiency but also ensure that the department prioritise projects with the greatest economic and social impact.
“And, this will increase investor confidence in public infrastructure projects, knowing that where Infrastructure South Africa is involved, construction projects are completed on time and within budget.
“We are accelerating broader budget reforms by collaborating with the National Treasury to streamline the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) process and establish an Infrastructure Fund that reports directly to the National Treasury.
“We are diversifying funding sources for infrastructure projects by focusing on PPPs, blended finance, and social infrastructure programmes. ISA will work closely with the National Treasury to direct investments toward projects with the highest GDP [gross domestic product] impact and job creation potential,” the Minister said.
The Minister said as the department pushes forward with reforms to ignite infrastructure investment, it was important that the department get its own house in order to ensure that it delivers on the core mandate.
“Accountability and transparency should be at the core of everything we do, while we work to eliminate corruption and abuse in all spheres of our organisation.” – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 08/29/2024 - 10:11
451 views
Bellville Business Expo 2024
The Bellville Business Expo is back for its second annual run, and this year promises to be bigger and better than ever before. Originally set for August, the event has been rescheduled to 17 and 18 October 2024, offering local businesses and working professionals an extended opportunity to explore growth avenues and expand their networks. …
Significant By-Election Victories
Dear Editor “These victories are more than just electoral successes; they are a powerful vote of confidence in the DA’s policies, leadership, and our commitment to saving South Africa.” – John Steenhuisen The DA is proud to announce our significant victories in seven by-elections held across the country yesterday. These results are a clear indication …
Standing Committee on Finance Calls on SARB To Seriously Look at High-Interest Rate Issue
The Standing Committee on Finance has called on the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) to seriously look at the issue of the high interest rate which is making life difficult for both the poor and middle-income earners in South Africa.
The Committee Chairperson, Dr Joe Maswanganyi, said that the committee is raising this matter not to instruct the central bank to lower the interest rate, but to consider it an issue that is mostly affecting ordinary people on the ground.
The SARB briefed the committee today on its mandate, structure, governance and shareholding as part of the committee's capacity-building workshop. Furthermore, the presentation covered national payments, financial surveillance and prudential regulation
The committee has welcomed the SARB presentation and applauded the central bank for ranking 8th on transparency index out of 30 countries globally. To this end, the central bank undertook to continue working hard to improve its transparency index globally.
Some of the measures taken by the SARB to improve its transparency index include speaking directly with local communities at regional level through forums. In 2024, the central bank has conducted ten of such forums in Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Durban, Gqeberha, Kimberly, Mahikeng, Mbombela, Polokwane, Sandton and in Soweto.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Prasa Taken to Court Over “Illegal” Eviction in Cape Town City Centre
Man stabbed during shack demolitions
Policing Memorandum of Understanding
Premier Alan Winde and Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety Anroux Marais welcomed the intended signing of the policing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Western Cape Government (WCG), national government, and the City of Cape Town (CoCT), which will take place in Cape Town on Friday, 30 August. Premier Winde said, …
Appeal To Heaven: 40-day Prayer Conference
This is the season! Now is the time! For spiritual breakthrough and revival. Appeal To Heaven, a 40-day prayer conference hosted by Good Hope Christian Centre from 4 September – 13 October. This extended conference, only one of its kind in our city, is set to make a profound impact on your life and strengthen …
Police Officer Filmed Assaulting Man Is Still on Duty
Three officers are accused of assaulting Juma Igiranieza, a barber, in Mowbray on 7 November 2023
Trinasolar Reinforces Its Commitment to South Africa’s Renewable Energy Future with Landmark Event in Cape Town
Trinasolar (www.Trinasolar.com), a global leader in smart PV and energy storage solutions, further solidified its commitment to South Africa's renewable energy future with an insightful customer event in Cape Town on August 26th. This event not only emphasized Trinasolar's ongoing expansion in the region but also highlighted its transformative impact on the country's energy landscape.
The event featured a keynote address by Kadri Nassiep, the City of Cape Town's Energy Executive Director, who provided an insightful overview of the city's energy strategies. Mr. Nassiep's address tackled the critical challenges of power outages and outlined innovative solutions that align with Trinasolar's mission to deliver reliable, sustainable energy to communities across South Africa.
Zaheer Khan, Regional Director for South Africa at Trinasolar, spoke to the company's significant milestones in the region, reflecting on Trinasolar's growing leadership in the renewable energy sector. "Our journey in South Africa is one of partnership and progress. Trinasolar's advanced technologies and strategic collaborations are not only addressing the immediate energy needs but also laying the foundation for a sustainable energy ecosystem in the country," Khan stated. He further emphasized Trinasolar's role as a catalyst for positive change, driving both economic growth and environmental stewardship in South Africa.
Peter Pan, Trinasolar's Storage Sales Manager, presented the company's cutting-edge energy storage solutions, which have been instrumental in ensuring energy resilience across different regions. His presentation highlighted Trinasolar's ability to offer full-process solutions that adapt to the diverse and dynamic needs of South African customers, further reinforcing the company's pivotal role in the country's energy transition.
In a surprise highlight, legendary South African cricketer Dale Steyn shared his journey of overcoming challenges, drawing parallels between his career and the resilience required in the energy sector. Trinasolar also announced the establishment of the Trinasolar SA Padel Club, an initiative designed to strengthen business relationships with key partners in South Africa's renewable energy industry. The club will serve as a platform for collaboration and networking among industry leaders, fostering a community dedicated to the shared goal of sustainable energy advancement.
The evening concluded with a gala dinner and a captivating performance, leaving guests with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to driving forward South Africa's renewable energy agenda, with Trinasolar at the helm.
Since its founding in 1997, Trinasolar has emerged as a world-leading photovoltaics technology provider. With a robust presence in South Africa, the company continues to innovate and expand, playing a crucial role in the country's transition to a sustainable energy future.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Trina Solar.
About Trinasolar (688599. SH)
Founded in 1997, Trinasolar Co Ltd (stock symbol: Trinasolar; stock code: 688599) is engaged mainly in PV products, PV systems and smart energy. PV products include R&D, production and sales of PV modules. PV systems consist of power stations and system products. Smart energy comprises mainly PV power generation and operatzions and maintenance, smart solutions for energy storage, smart microgrid, and development and sales of multi-energy systems. We are committed to leading the way in smart PV and energy storage solutions and facilitating the transformation of new power systems for a net-zero future.
On June 10, 2020, Trinasolar was listed on the Science and Technology Innovation Board (STAR Market) of the Shanghai Stock Exchange(SSE). It was the first PV and energy storage company to go public on the STAR Market providing PV products and systems, as well as smart energy. For more information, please visit www.Trinasolar.com.
Remain Vigilant in the Face of Increased Banking Scams Urges the SAFPS
The end of the year is fast approaching, and with it, the festive season and general anticipation for that hard-earned vacation that many South Africans work so hard for during the year. While this is a time of good cheer and increased shopping activity to prepare for the December break, it is also a busy …
DHL Stormers Taking Investec Champions Cup to Gqeberha
The DHL Stormers will take on French side RC Toulon in Round One of the Investec Champions Cup at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha. History will be made on December 7 when Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium hosts the first-ever Investec Champions Cup match in the South African rugby heartland of the Eastern Cape. Tickets …
Critical Minerals Africa Summit to Showcase Battery, Electric Vehicle (EV) Manufacturing Prospects
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Zambia – among the world's top mineral producers – are currently spearheading the implementation of a Transboundary Battery and Electric Vehicle (EV) Special Economic Zone (SEZ) (https://apo-opa.co/4g2yhK7). The development of SEZs dedicated exclusively to battery and EV production aims to unlock new foreign investment, as well as position both countries within the global automotive manufacturing space.
The upcoming Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) Summit will feature a Automotive and Batteries Focus panel, examining measures to establish Africa as a global hub for battery precursors, batteries and EVs, as well as exploring opportunities for Africa's critical minerals to support clean energy development. To date, most African automotive manufacturing takes place in South Africa, yet massive mineral wealth in Zambia and the DRC indicates the potential of these markets to become industrial hubs.
The Critical Minerals Africa 2024 summit on November 6 - 7 serves to position Africa as the primary investment destination for critical minerals. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energy 2024 conference (https://apo-opa.co/4fUGT5A) on November 4 - 8, offering delegates access to the full scope of energy, mining and finance leaders in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.
Increased cooperation among governments and international partners has been critical to positioning Africa's mineral producers as potential manufacturing partners. The DRC, which holds the world's largest cobalt reserves at 6 million metric tons out of the global 11 million metric tons, established the Congolese Battery Council in 2023 to facilitate investment across its mineral value chain. The country – also representing Africa's largest copper producer – signed an MOU with Zambia in March 2023 to fast-track the implementation of the Transboundary Battery and Electric Vehicle SEZ, seeking to add value to its raw cobalt and copper resources.
Zambia – Africa's second-largest copper producer – formed a task committee in 2023 to expedite the implementation of the SEZ and identified land to host the zone. The country has strengthened partnerships with global mining firms, including Ivanhoe Mines, Galileo Resources, Tertiary Minerals, First Quantum, Vedanta Resources, Jubilee Metals and Xtract Resources, to achieve its goal of producing three million tons of copper annually by 2030. The Zambian and DRC governments are also partnering with the World Bank to launch local platforms between May 2024 and 2026, aimed at identifying and assessing investment prospects across their respective EV and critical minerals value chain.
South Africa, which holds 80% of the world's platinum group metals (PGMs) reserves – crucial for EV and hydrogen vehicle production – currently leads Africa's EV market. Mining firm Isondo Precious Metals (https://apo-opa.co/3XlPHdy) plans to launch an advanced manufacturing facility for processing PGMs for EV applications in Johannesburg. Meanwhile, global automaker BMW, mining firm Anglo Platinum and energy company Sasol are piloting a fleet of hydrogen-fueled vehicles to advance smart mobility adoption in South Africa. CMA 2024 will host delegations from the DRC, Zambia, South Africa and other key industry stakeholders to discuss the latest developments shaping Africa's smart mobility and mining sectors.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
The Future of African Hospitality
Africa's tourism sector is poised for an exciting ascent, and it has the potential to soar if it is propelled by visionary strategies and robust investments that harness the continent's unparalleled tourist allure.
Amid the unprecedented changes of recent years, Africa's tourist appeal is greater than ever. With the right steps, it can offer more top destinations for today's tourists. The API Hospitality & Residences Forum is a pivotal platform for Africa's hospitality industry that is legendary for its dealmaking, networking, and unique insights. It takes place on 19 September 2024 at the Westin Hotel in Cape Town on the first day of the highly anticipated two-day API Summit.
This year's API Summit is themed “Impact”, and industry leaders speaking at the API Hospitality and Residences Forum highlight the key to unlocking the full potential of Africa's tourism sector to foster sustainable growth and enhance the continent's appeal to both travellers and investors includes focused investments, strategic partnerships and robust public sector involvement. The API Hospitality & Residence Forum sets the stage to catalyse and nurture these outcomes.
Bani Haddad, Founder and Managing Director of Aleph Hospitality, the largest independent hotel management company in the Middle East and Africa, will be among the distinguished speakers. "The pandemic had several profound effects on the tourism sector," Haddad reflects. "One of the most noticeable impacts has been the increased desire among travellers for domestic or regional trips, as well as nature-based or less crowded destinations. Africa is uniquely positioned to benefit from these trends.”
Citing the latest Chain Development Pipeline report by W Hospitality, Haddad notes a 20% growth in the number of hotel rooms in Africa since 2020, reaching a total of 92,134 rooms. “This growth indicates that the supply is expanding across the continent to meet the rising demand. We are also witnessing an increase in the quality and branded hotel supply in resort destinations such as Zanzibar and national parks like Serengeti and Mara. The global demand for nature and experiential experiences presents a significant opportunity for Africa, which has much to offer in this regard."
Haddad continues, "Investing in and fostering partnerships within the tourism sector is not just beneficial but essential for unlocking its full potential in Africa.”
Such efforts can lead to comprehensive economic development, job creation, and the promotion of sustainable and inclusive growth. He emphasises that governments, private sector players, and international organisations all have crucial roles in facilitating these investments and partnerships to ensure the tourism sector thrives and significantly contributes to the continent's development.
Echoing this sentiment, Daniel Trappler, Senior Director – Development Sub-Sahara Africa at Radisson Hotel Group (RHG), who will also speak at the event, outlines RHG's strategic plans in the post-COVID landscape. "RHG plans to capitalise on growth opportunities in key value nodes such as Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Zanzibar, and leisure offerings in the coastal and safari segments across Southern and Eastern Africa. Within these nodes lies the opportunity to increase RHG branded supply to meet the obvious growing demand.”
Trappler highlights RHG's eagerness to expand its footprint in Cape Town's 5-star and luxury segments, which have consistently performed above the market average despite higher rates. In Victoria Falls, RHG aims to replicate the success of its Zambezi River's Zambia side, planning to introduce the upscale Radisson brand to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
"We are actively seeking partners to bring our Radisson, Radisson Blu, or Radisson Collection brands to Zanzibar, given RHG's significant presence in Eastern Europe, the largest source market for Zanzibar," Trappler adds.
Since opening its new Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, RHG has set its sights on replicating the same model within Southern and Eastern Africa, capturing both the foreign market and the regional market, which prefers short travel distances for tourism needs.
“The group is developing resort offerings in various safari and coastal locations, including Masai Mara, Serengeti, the Kenyan coast, Seychelles, Mauritius and the wildlife territories in Namibia and Botswana."
Trappler underscores the critical role of investment and public sector involvement. "The contribution of tourism to GDP is evident across the region. National and local governments need to increase their awareness of the sector's potential contribution to GDP. In South Africa, where RHG aims to double its portfolio, we need to see more active interest and contributions from the public sector towards developing hotels and hospitality infrastructure."
He stresses the need for public sector initiatives driving growth in this sector, particularly in South Africa, where the sector is strong but could be a much larger contributor to GDP and employment creation.
The API Hospitality & Residences Forum is a unique pan-African event that brings hospitality-focused leaders and investors together with Africa's leading real estate community. Sponsored by industry giants like Radisson Hotel Group, Marriott Hotels, HTI Consulting, JLL, and Tui Blu, the forum offers an unparalleled platform for doing business in African hospitality.
With over 500 leaders expected to attend the summit, including more than 250 hospitality delegates, in excess of 75 hotel brands, operators and owners, and 35 speakers, the API Hospitality & Residences Forum is the premier gathering of Africa's leading hospitality professions and consultants.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of API Events.
For any media enquiries or interviews, kindly contact:
Anne Lovell
anne@dmix.com
083 651 7777
Distributed for API Events by Dmix:
API Events
Murray Anderson-Ogle
Email:Murray@apievents.com
Contact: +27 71 890 77 39
Website: www.APIEvents.com
Social Media:
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President Ramaphosa to respond to questions in the National Assembly
President Ramaphosa to respond to questions in the National Assembly
President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday afternoon account to the nation on the work of government when he responds to Questions for Oral Reply in the National Assembly in Parliament, Cape Town.
During this session, President Ramaphosa will, among other questions, brief Parliament on steps government is taking to encourage private sector investments to improve ports, railways and other infrastructure to drive economic growth.
“This will also include expansion of access to agricultural markets for small-scale and emerging farmers as productive sectors of the economy.
“The President will reflect on the alignment of South Africa’s foreign policy with the needs of the African continent and steps being taken to ensure that South Africa continues to contribute to promoting African unity and self-determination,” the Presidency said in a statement.
Other international issues such as combating illicit trade in illegal substances will also be addressed.
Furthermore, the President will provide updates on the development and strategic goals of the Sovereign Wealth Fund and progress in building housing for the residents of Alexandra. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 08/28/2024 - 09:57
51 views
Farm Workers March in Rain and Wind to Call For Ban on Pesticides
They want an end to exports of harmful pesticides from Germany
Thousands of Teaching Posts to Be Cut in the Western Cape
Schools are expected to receive their 2025 staff allocations on Friday
Govt pulling resources together to curb extortion crimes, says Mashatile
Govt pulling resources together to curb extortion crimes, says Mashatile
Through the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster, government is consolidating resources to end extortion and ensure that communities conduct business without fear or intimidation.
“We are also aware of the persistent issues of high levels of extortion crimes, particularly in Mthatha, Eastern Cape,” said Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
The Eastern Cape town of Mthatha is battling extortion crime by syndicates, which have led to at least one school and several businesses shutting down, according to reports.
Mashatile, in his capacity as Leader of Government Business in Parliament, was delivering a keynote address during the first Three-Sphere Planning session of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) of the seventh Parliament in Cape Town.
He told the Members of the NCOP that the Government of National Unity (GNU), has adopted three priorities, including inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.
“We have adopted the above three priorities because whilst we have made significant progress over the 30 years in reducing poverty and inequality, we remain faced with the challenges of a slow-growing economy, high unemployment and poverty rate, high incidence of crime, corruption and lawlessness, and a highly fractured society.”
Mashatile said the seventh administration has decided to invest in the building of a capable, developmental State.
“A developmental State, in our context, is a State that will redirect resources towards job creation and ensure that people have access to asset ownership, economic opportunity, education, healthcare, and other basic services.”
More importantly, in a quest for a developmental State, the Deputy President mentioned that government will continue to invest in building safer communities.
“Building safer communities is not only a police responsibility, but it is a shared responsibility between the police, communities and all sectors of our society.”
He has since urged citizens to hold hands with law enforcement agencies to combat crime in communities.
The planning session is being held under the theme: ‘Establishing an Oversight Agenda for the Seventh Parliament: Defining Key Oversight Priorities for the NCOP in the Seventh Parliament’.
Parliament‘s strategic innovation emphasises joint and integrated planning, encouraging collaborative work in programme planning and implementation across government.
The session is aimed at ensuring that the NCOP institutionalises and implements a comprehensive Three-Sphere Planning oversight framework and mechanism, in line with the constitutional mandate of promoting the principles of cooperative governance coordination.
Government believes this will enhance the effective implementation of key transformation priorities, in line with National Development Plan Vision 2030. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 14:53
418 views
Govt to launch programme to clean cities across SA
Govt to launch programme to clean cities across SA
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has announced that government will soon initiate a programme to clean cities and recognise those that exceed expectations in making their towns sustainable and safe.
The country’s second-in-command said that cleaner cities contribute towards attracting investors.
“In this regard, as leaders in our respective towns, we must launch a competition of the cleanest towns,” he said on Tuesday.
Deputy President Mashatile, in his capacity as Leader of Government Business in Parliament, was delivering a keynote address during the first Three-Sphere Planning session of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) of the seventh Parliament in Cape Town.
He said his Office will collaborate with the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister and South African Local Government Association (Salga) to form a committee that will conduct an annual assessment of the cleanliness of cities and present awards.
“This campaign has the potential of ensuring that the private sector and communities in partnership with the government ensure that our cities are clean and safe.
“Honourable Members, in realising the vision of building a developmental, capable, and ethical State, we will vigorously implement the plan to professionalise the public service, and we will do so by investing in the capacity of the National School of Government.”
Modernising the State
Equally, he said, government must continue to invest in the modernisation of the State and government by introducing innovative solutions across government particularly.
“The whole world is going digital in many respects and as South Africa, we must not be left behind.”
Over the last 30 years, government has adopted progressive policies that the seventh administration is going to pay special attention to the speed of execution.
The Deputy President announced plans to strengthen coordination by refocusing the Presidency as the centre of government, bringing together critical government departments such as CoGTA and the National Treasury.
“We intend to align planning and budgeting as part of implementing the District Development Model (DDM) premised on One Plan-One Vision and this we will do to achieve maximum results in building a better life for all.”
The planning session is being held under the theme ‘Establishing an Oversight Agenda for the Seventh Parliament: Defining Key Oversight Priorities for the NCOP in the Seventh Parliament’.
Parliament‘s strategic innovation emphasises joint and integrated planning, encouraging collaborative work in program planning and implementation across government.
The session is aimed at ensuring that the NCOP institutionalises and implements a comprehensive Three-Sphere Planning oversight framework and mechanism, in line with the constitutional mandate of promoting the principles of cooperative governance coordination.
Government believes this will enhance the effective implementation of key transformation priorities, in line with National Development Plan Vision 2030. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 15:04
331 views
Public-private partnership to tackle water crisis – Mashatile
Public-private partnership to tackle water crisis - Mashatile
Government is introducing a public-private partnership (PPP) model in water supply, working with National Treasury and the Department of Water and Sanitation.
According to Deputy President Paul Mashatile, this initiative aims to resolve the potential water crisis, similar to how it has successfully addressed the energy and load shedding crisis.
“We need to act before there is a crisis,” said Deputy President Mashatile on Tuesday.
Mashatile, in his capacity as Leader of Government Business in Parliament, was delivering a keynote address during the first Three-Sphere Planning session of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) of the seventh Parliament in Cape Town.
He informed Members of the NCOP that, through the District Development Model (DDM) in Waterberg, Limpopo, and with private sector involvement, government is implementing much-needed interventions to create opportunities for the community.
“In eThekwini, we have been resolving the water crisis to the extent that we are beginning to see much-needed changes in the functioning of the municipality."
Together with the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Mashatile said they will be visiting Giyani to assess the state of progress in ensuring that people have water in that part of the province.
“This is going to be the modus operandi of the seventh administration because we want to ensure that we do not have a water crisis in the country. We need to go to these communities and resolve the problems.”
However, the Deputy President is of the view that the success of the DDM lies in the speed of execution as a modus operandi, which should be adopted across the three spheres of government.
“We need to ensure that from the point of view of the Executive, we are entrenching the discipline of getting things done. In this regard, we are working on measures that will ensure the introduction of legislation by the Executive in Parliament is done timeously. Equally, we are ensuring that when Bills are introduced in the National Assembly, they must follow all the compliance processes so that the constitutionality of the proposed legislation is not compromised.”
The Deputy President believes this is an important task to avoid litigation.
“Honourable Members, as we gather here today, we must ensure that we sharpen and crystallise a common understanding of the three overarching policy priorities of the seventh administration.”
The planning session is being held under the theme: "Establishing an Oversight Agenda for the Seventh Parliament: Defining Key Oversight Priorities for the NCOP in the Seventh Parliament".
Parliament’s strategic innovation emphasises joint and integrated planning, encouraging collaborative work in programme planning and implementation across government.
The session is aimed at ensuring that the NCOP institutionalises and implements a comprehensive Three-Sphere Planning oversight framework and mechanism, in line with the constitutional mandate of promoting the principles of cooperative governance coordination.
Government believes this will enhance the effective implementation of key transformation priorities, in line with National Development Plan Vision 2030. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 15:13
193 views