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Elevate always-on control room operations to the next level with clear, dynamic, and reliable solutions from LG. In today’s interconnected world, control rooms serve as nerve centres for various industries, from mining, to transportation, retail, security, and emergency services. These control rooms require advanced technologies that can support constant connectivity, seamless collaboration, and efficient information …
Province’s learners struggle for a school place, but KZN and Gauteng claim to be okay
In the ever-evolving landscape of global commerce, logistics and transportation play a crucial role. From specialised medical deliveries to international shipping, the logistics industry offers a myriad of services to cater to diverse needs. This guide highlights various essential logistics services that facilitate seamless operations in different sectors. 1. Multi-Temperature Warehouse and Distribution Effective logistics …
Currently the Department of Water and Sanitation cannot directly intervene when municipalities fail to supply drinking water up to standard
As the 46th edition of the Dakar Rally enters the home stretch to the finish in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, the world’s toughest Motorsport race has lived up to its billing and once again delivered nail-biting adventure and almost unbearable heartache. The Dakar Rally is an event for adventurers first and foremost, and while many of …
Cameroon is at the forefront of a significant data revolution in Central Africa, with big data driving innovation, informing decision-making, and fueling economic growth. This has established the country as a recognized hub for data science professionals, with recognition from both the public and private sectors. However, the demand for skilled big data professionals in …
Mchunu to lead Water Services Authority Summit
Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu will lead a two-day Water Services Authority (WSA) Summit in response to the outcomes of the Blue and No Drop Reports and Green Drop Progress Assessment Report released in December 2023.
The summit will be held at Emperors Palace, Kempton Park, from 18 - 19 January 2024.
Mchunu is expected to be joined by the Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), Water and Sanitation Deputy Ministers, David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, as well as representatives from provincial and local governments.
The summit will be attended by representatives from the 144 Water Services Authorities across the country, and will deliberate and review the reports released by the Minister in December 2023.
The gathering will enable the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) and Cogta, together with the Water Services Authorities, to agree on what should be done to address the findings of the drop reports.
Action plans will be developed in various groups that will converge and look into critical performing municipalities, poor performing municipalities, average performing municipalities and excellent performing municipalities.
The summit will further discuss the following:
• The implication of the 2023 No Drop, Blue Drop, and Green Drop results.
• Identify the main causes of good and poor performance.
• Identify the most important issues to be included in action plans to be developed by Water Services Authorities with poor and critical performing water supply and wastewater systems.
• Exchange best practices, share lessons learned and identify areas of collaboration.
• Identify various support mechanisms to assist the poor and critical performing entities.
• Raise the profile of the quality of water and sanitation services by engaging and encouraging mayors to be ambassadors of change.
This comes at the backdrop of the release of the reports on water quality (Blue Drop), non-revenue water (No Drop), as well as a report on the state of waste water (Green Drop) in all Water Services Authorities in the country.
The Blue and No Drop Reports indicate that there has been a decline in drinking water quality and an increase in non-revenue water since the last reports were issued in 2014.
The Green Drop Progress Assessment Report also indicates an increased risk in the performance of municipal wastewater treatment systems.
The Blue, Green and No Drop Certification programmes are aimed at improving municipal drinking water quality, wastewater management as well as water conservation and demand management.
The programme is a transparency and accountability mechanism by government on the state of water and sanitation to ensure that all role players in the water sector are held accountable and the citizens are informed about the state of their drinking water quality, provision and how waste water is managed to ensure that their health and the environment are protected.
The regulating mechanism provides for the DWS to initiate corrective measures to address deficiencies identified during each assessment. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 01/17/2024 - 11:24
Company Outlines Direction and “Break Through Limits” Management Policy During Press Conference in Las Vegas LG Electronics’ (LG) CEO William Cho and key company executives introduced the strategies LG is implementing to achieve its ‘Future Vision 2030’ goal, during a press conference held for Korean media in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.A., on January 10. The …
Neosun Energy (https://Neosun.com/), a Global Solar Energy company focused on construction of solar power stations and battery storage solutions has recently ventured into the South African market. This move aims to provide commercial solar panels and energy storage solutions with capacities ranging from 200kW to 10MW for commercial and industrial projects (C&I) not only in South Africa but worldwide.
The entry comes at a critical time as businesses face heightened energy access issues due to load shedding and driven by soaring electricity and fossil fuel costs, along with the persistent challenge of numerous off-grid areas in Africa lacking energy access.
Known for its global outreach, Neosun has already extended its services or components to 16 countries encompassing CIS, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. With significant contracts under its belt from reputable clients like Allianz, Adidas, CBN and Polymetal, Neosun has established itself as a force to reckon with in the solar energy sector.
"Thousands of enterprises in Africa are unable to fulfill business operations and are bearing financial losses due to the limited access to the grid. Such solutions as solar PV stations and energy storages are the means to resolve these issues. - says Ilya Likhov, the CEO of Neosun. - The surge in renewable energy investment to $495 billion in 2022, juxtaposed against the $371 billion in oil and gas, reflects a global shift towards sustainable energy solutions. Neosun's venture into South Africa is a step towards mitigating business losses incurred due to electricity scarcity and propelling the region towards a sustainable energy future."
Targeting primarily small and medium enterprises (SMEs), Neosun's expansion into South Africa, and ongoing negotiations in other African countries and regions, underscore its commitment to bridging the energy gap. The focus industries include manufacturing, warehousing, shopping malls, commercial offices, mining & industrial facilities, and pharmaceuticals. The South African market, hit hard by electricity shortages leading to business losses exceeding $13 billion in 2022, presents a significant opportunity for Neosun to make a positive impact.
Neosun carries out solar projects worldwide, focusing on remote African regions where such initiatives provide electricity to enterprises and settlements, changing lives. For instance, a recent project in a Kenyan village involved a 300kW capacity system for a local workshop, which allowed the business to extend operational hours and double its income by running two shifts. The installation also generated 600,000 kWh of energy, enabling sales of excess electricity to nearby areas. This created an additional income source for the village, illustrating the transformative effect of Neosun's solar solutions for local economies in off-grid locations.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Neosun.
About Neosun:
Neosun Energy (https://Neosun.com/) is an international Solar EPC company that provides Commercial Solar PV & Energy Storage Solutions (ESS) with capacity from 200kW to 10MW for Commercial and Industrial projects Worldwide. The company constructs solar power plants and energy storage systems (ESS) on a turn-key basis, covering all stages of construction including design, equipment supply, construction, and commissioning. The company has implemented solar PV projects in 16 countries worldwide.
Structural reforms remain key for SA economy
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to engaging in structural reforms that will foster an environment fertile to economic growth and competitiveness.
The Minister was speaking during a panel discussion at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting held in Davos, Switzerland.
Godongwana is leading the South African delegation to the critical meeting.
Structural reforms in South Africa are targeted at – among other things – electricity, infrastructure, water and logistics, and are driven by Operation Vulindlela.
Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms and support economic recovery. It aims to modernise and transform network industries, including electricity, water, transport and digital communications.
The objectives of the reforms are aimed at:
“There are a number of things we are doing to deal with structural reforms. One of the perennial problems we’ve had has been on the energy front. Massive structural reforms… are dealing with that question.
“A new challenge has been the logistics sector, where we are investing a lot in it. We have been trying to change the skills composition to the extent that we don’t have and we have provided an environment where we can import skills with ease.
“So there are lot of structural reforms that we have engaged in in order to make sure that we can grow the economy and be competitive,” Godongwana told the panel.
Historical commitment
During the pre-WEF media breakfast briefing held last week, Godongwana emphasised that structural reforms remain crucial.
“Structural reforms remain crucial to revive medium-term growth prospects amid a constrained policy space. We remain steadfast in carrying out structural reforms to support and accelerate economic recovery.
“As government, we remain resolved to deal with the energy and logistics challenges that are adversely impacting our economy,” he said.
In his Medium Term Budget Policy Statement delivered in November last year, Godongwana presented the reforms specifically targeted at Eskom and Transnet.
On Transnet, he said: “Rail underperformance is estimated to have cost up to 5% of GDP in 2022, with losses in the region of R50 billion in the minerals sector alone.
“Given the scale of the challenges, the National Logistics Crisis Committee was instituted to broaden reforms in the sector and prioritise reforms aimed at resolving the immediate crisis, while also addressing the structural aspects hampering the sector.”
On electricity, Godongwana said: “[We] recognise the potential loss of revenue due to private electricity generation, and the fact that traditional revenue models relied on by public entities like Eskom, face serious disruption.
“It is for these reasons that our electricity reforms are holistic, evidenced-based, and geared to find a balanced solution to our electricity supply challenges. They take into account not just a particular entity but the transformation of the sector as a whole.” – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 01/16/2024 - 12:18
Democracy has paved the way for access to education for all
President Cyril Ramaphosa says that as the nation commemorates 30 years of democracy, South Africa has made strides in “advancing access to education” for previously marginalised groups.
He made this assertion in his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday.
South Africa will celebrate 30 years of democracy this year as the country’s first democratic election was held in April 1994 – marking an end to the racist apartheid regime.
“We must consider just how far we have come from an era where the educational prospects of young black men and women were greatly diminished, and where the inferior education they received was deliberately designed to prepare them to be “hewers of wood and drawers of water”.
“Much has changed. From the results of Census 2022, we can glean insight into the gains we have made as a country in advancing access to education, the most critical area of any nation’s development,” the President said.
Census 2022, according to the Presidency, was the fourth population and housing count in post-apartheid South Africa, with the first conducted in 1996, with subsequent censuses being conducted in 2001 and 2011.
Pressing further on the results of Census 2022, the President added that at least three quarters of youth aged between five and 24 are attending school with the “percentage of people aged 20 and older who have completed secondary education” doubling since the first democratic Census in 1996.
“The first census showed that some 62% of white South Africans had a matric or higher qualification compared to 18% of blacks. Today, 38% of all South Africans have completed secondary education.
“At the time Census 1996 was conducted, 1.5 million South Africans had post-school qualifications. In 2022, this figure stood at approximately 4.6 million. Much of this progress has been made possible by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, which continues to play an invaluable role in supporting access to higher education,” President Ramaphosa said.
Expanding access to education
He acknowledged that the education sector is facing challenges “as it works to meet the needs of our growing population [and] we are working to overcome them”.
“However, given our country’s history of marginalisation and exclusion, that we have made such substantial progress in expanding access to education over the past three decades is significant.
“In South Africa today, basic and higher education is accessible to the children and grandchildren of farmworkers, mineworkers and domestic workers, many of whom were denied such opportunities in the not-too-distant apartheid past. We will continue to build on our gains in our quest to leave no-one behind.”
Matric results
President Ramaphosa highlighted that matric results over the past few years has recorded the strides that young females are now making.
“In 2022, the matric cohort achieved an 80.1% pass rate, and last year more than a million candidates sat for the exam. More than half of the successful matriculants were female. There are also more women studying at tertiary institutions in South Africa, including in the once male-dominated science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields.
“While the task of ensuring that our economy grows at a scale and pace to absorb graduates and those seeking formal employment is a daunting one, let us not lose sight of how far we have come in this critical developmental indicator.
“We wish the matriculants eagerly awaiting their results later this week good luck. We have no doubt they will make us proud, making it an auspicious start to an auspicious year,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 01/15/2024 - 10:13
In a hyper-connected world where ‘blue ticking’ is a serious no-no, red notification signs activate some compulsive finger twitching, and the ping of an email hitting your inbox compels you to drop everything and click “open”, it’s no wonder that for the large part, highly successful leaders are worn out! In observing success, it seems …
The world's largest mining event, Investing in African Mining Indaba (https://www.MiningIndaba.com), is gearing up for a memorable year with a notable speaker line-up that will place critical issues in mining at the forefront of discussions in an unprecedented way.
Mining Indaba, which takes place from 5-8 February 2024 in Cape Town, celebrates a milestone of 30 years as the premium destination for deal making and discussions on critical issues facing the African mining industry. Under the theme “Embracing the power of positive disruption: A bold new future for African mining,” attendees can expect conversations to focus on the change and disruption needed to move the African mining industry forward.
The highly anticipated main stage discussions titled ‘Voices of Disruption' will feature speakers from some of Africa's leading mining companies and associations on how they are bringing positive change and disruption to the industry, the country and the African continent. Headline speakers include Anglo American CEO, Duncan Wanblad; Rio Tinto Minerals CEO, Sinead Kaufman; Minerals Council South Africa CEO, Mzila Mthenjane; Eurasian Resources Group CEO, Benedikt Sobotka; Newmont Corporation CEO, Tom Palmer and Barrick Gold Corporation CEO, Mark Bristow.
Other notable disruptive discussions include a panel which will look at Africa's exploration pipeline and why this is so empty. Speakers on this panel include Junior and Emerging Miners Leadership Forum Chairperson, Orion LTD CEO and Minerals Council board member, Errol Smart; Ivanhoe Mines President and Chief Financial Officer, Marna Cloete. It will be moderated by International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) CEO and President Rohitesh Dhawan.
Another key disruptive session to look forward to, which will be moderated by Minerals Council South Africa CEO Mzila Mthenjane, will provide insight into the security of critical mineral supply and will weigh in on the role of China, the West and Africa.
Mining Indaba has always attracted strong representation from mining ministers, government representatives and investors both locally and internationally, and 2024 is no different. South African Minister for Minerals Resources and Energy, Minister Gwede Mantashe is confirmed as one of the speakers.
“As Mining Indaba turns 30, the excitement around this milestone achievement is high and with a large contingent of loyal participants, our stakeholders want to share in this unbelievable achievement. We will have strong representation from international governments and investors including the United States, Europe, Saudi Arabia, India and more, all contributing to their ideals for supporting the development of critical minerals industries in Africa. Importantly, our discussions will explore how Africa can best utilise its own minerals while still contributing towards global needs,” says Investing in African Mining Indaba Portfolio Director Eve Harper
Other headline speakers who have confirmed their attendance are Kumba Iron Ore CEO, Mpumi Zikalala; Sibanye-Stillwater CEO Neal Froneman; Seriti Group CEO, Mike Teke; Gold Fields CEO, Martin Preece; Glencore DRC and Chairman KCC, Marie-Chantal Kaninda; Vedanta Base Metals CEO, Christopher Griffith; Vale Base Metals Chairperson, Mark Cutifani and Minerals Council President, Nolitha Fakude to name a few.
“Our 2024 theme aims to completely elevate the audience experience for our panel discussions and all content elements within our programmes. To support this, our main stage has been rebranded ‘Disruptive Discussions' to further emphasise our content objectives. Our priority is for our panellists to move away from typical corporate messaging and start engaging on real challenges in mining to find solutions – in other words, showcasing how they are disruptive in the industry. Smaller panels, with more engaged and participatory moderators will deliver transparent and meaningful conversations that the audience can connect with and learn from,” adds Harper.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Investing in African Mining Indaba.
For media queries:
R&A Strategic Communications
Katherine Bester
katherine@rasc.co.za
Sibongile Mtafu
sibongile@rasc.co.za
For exhibition queries:
Hyve
Natalie Whittaker
Natalie.Whittaker@hyve.group
About Investing in African Mining Indaba:
Investing in African Mining Indaba is the largest mining investment event in Africa. With a proven track record of bringing together Ministers, senior Government representatives, Mining Companies, Mid and Junior Miners, Investors, professional services as well as mining equipment and service providers. Mining Indaba is the place to meet everybody who is anybody in the African and global mining industry.
It is the must-attend event that drives the mining industry forward and provides attendees with unmatched access to the entire value chain and the most influential players in African mining for four days of high-quality content, deal-making and networking opportunities. Investing in African Mining Indaba 2024 takes place in Cape Town from 5-8 February 2023.
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 …
President emphasises importance of human rights
With South Africa heading to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague for acts committed by Israel in the context of its attacks on Gaza, President Cyril Ramaphosa says the country approached the court due to its opposition to the ongoing slaughter of the people of Gaza.
“As a people who once tasted the bitter fruits of dispossession, discrimination, racism and state-sponsored violence, we are clear that we will stand on the right side of history. It is our fervent hope that just as we were able to reconcile and make peace, that the peoples of Israel and Palestine will find a lasting, just peace,” the President said on Wednesday in Johannesburg.
The ICJ in The Hague will begin hearings in the proceedings brought by South Africa against the State of Israel on Thursday.
Paying tribute to the life of globally renowned photographer, Dr Peter Magubane, President Ramaphosa called for the remembrance of the more than 100 journalists and media workers who have been killed in Israel’s genocidal war on the people of Gaza.
Magubane, who was well-known for his images that captured experiences and struggles of black South Africans during apartheid, passed away on 01 January 2024 at the age of 91.
“When we look at the world today, we see journalists being arrested, persecuted and even killed for doing their job. Indeed, bearing witness to the truth is a revolutionary act. Standing firm for justice is what must define our humanity.
“As a country we can hold our heads up high that we have come very far from the days when Magubane and other journalists were censured, arrested and persecuted for practicing their craft.
“We can be proud that our intellectual property regime is robust and protects the rights of journalists, artists, cultural workers and all South Africans and enables them to safeguard and profit off their work,” he said.
The President said in its 30th year since achieving democracy, South Africa’s media and press freedom remains strong.
“The right to a free press is enshrined in our Constitution. As a country, we can hold our heads up high that we have come very far from the days when Magubane and other journalists were censured, arrested and persecuted for practicing their craft.
“We can be proud that our intellectual property regime is robust and protects the rights of journalists, artists, cultural workers and all South Africans and enables them to safeguard and profit off their work.
“Above all, we can be proud that the South African media continues in the tradition of Magubane by bearing witness to injustice, to wrongdoing and to malfeasance.
“Just as his generation of journalists held the powerful to account, we continue to count on today’s generation of media workers to fulfil this important role without being hindered, obstructed, or censored,” President Ramaphosa said.
Magubane’s photographic career began in 1955 after he joined Drum magazine as a driver and messenger.
He soon became a darkroom assistant where his major assignment was covering the African National Congress 1955 convention.
The President affirmed the immense power of the Fourth Estate in shaping public opinion, in giving an impartial and unbiased account of the truth, and in supporting the development of a nation.
“As much as it is critical to point the lens in the direction of wrongdoing, I want to take this opportunity to call on the media to give South Africans an equally balanced view of the progress this country has achieved over the past 30 years.
“Of the progress in terms of educational outcomes, access to healthcare, basic services, constitutional freedoms, and fulfilment of the Bill of Rights. The South Africa of today is a vastly different place to the South Africa that was the canvas for Magubane’s lens,” the President said.
He said Magubane’s work documenting apartheid helped shift global opinion against the regime.
“At a time when we strive to rebuild our country from a period of great hardship, your balanced work as men and women of the media has the potential to lift the nation’s spirits, to inspire and give us courage, and to bring us hope.
“Let us bring too to the people of South Africa the stories of lives transformed, living standards improved, and those areas where there has been positive change. We count on you to be the conscience of a nation, but also the voice of the people, as Magubane was. As journalists you should not only be messengers of doom and gloom, but guardians of our democracy and merchants of hope,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 01/10/2024 - 14:08
Poppy Khoza returns as Director for Civil Aviation Authority
Director of Civil Aviation, Poppy Khoza, will lead the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) into a new chapter after being re-appointed to serve another five-year term at the regulator.
“Khoza is an aviation trailblazer who is internationally recognised and supported. It is through her work that our South African aviation sector continues to hold a critical voice on global aviation dialogues,” SACAA Board Chairperson Ernest Khosa said on Tuesday.
Her term in office is effective from 1 December 2023 until 30 November 2028. This will be her third term at the helm of the aviation regulator.
Khoza carries extensive experience and knowledge in aviation since being first appointed to this pivotal role in an acting capacity in October 2012 and then on a 5-year fixed term basis from December 2013.
Outside of being the first black female DCA, she was also the first woman globally to be elected to preside over the General Assembly at the ICAO’s 41st Assembly Session in 2022.
Some of SACAA's achievements under Khoza’s tenure at the Authority include:
This appointment was approved by Cabinet on 20 November 2023.
“As the SACAA Board, we see this as a vote of confidence for the exemplary leadership the DCA has demonstrated over the past 11 years being at the helm of the organisation. I would like to extend my message of support following this announcement from Cabinet.
“The stability we see at SACAA is testament to her great leadership which has equally received positive cheers from staff, the aviation industry, and international counterparts, when we first made this announcement on 20 November 2023,” Khoza said.
Khoza said she is deeply honoured and grateful for this opportunity to again serve as the Director of Civil Aviation.
“It is an exciting time for me personally and I pledge my commitment once again to drive positive change and promoting safety, efficiency, gender equality and innovation in our skies.” –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 01/10/2024 - 09:51
Minister hands over outdoor gym in Mpumalanga
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa has handed over an outdoor gym and sporting clothes to a community in Mpumalanga.
“Government’s intervention to build outdoor gyms in Royal Great Places is a commitment to develop sport in rural communities. Further to this, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture is also building multipurpose sports courts in rural and township communities,” the Minister said on Tuesday.
He said historically, rural communities have lacked these sport and recreational facilities.
“This has meant that there are not enough resources available in these communities for people, and the youth in particular, to exercise and play sport. By focusing on sport development in rural communities, we are inspiring communities to live active lifestyles.
“We are also addressing the issue of youths needing to go to towns and cities to play sport, where there are more resources. By prioritising sport development in rural communities, we are also working to ensure that sport talent is identified in these communities, and that sport talent is given opportunities to flourish. It is in communities such as KwaMhlanga where the next Trevor Nyakane or Caster Semenya will be discovered,” Kodwa said.
He said the outdoor gym, which is located in Royal Great Places, means that communities can exercise in a safe environment, and the gym equipment can be well looked after.
“This year, South Africa celebrates 30 years of freedom. One of the mandates of our government over the past 30 years has been to ensure social transformation in South African society through promoting social cohesion, social integration, and social inclusion.
“Sport plays a critical role in realising this goal. Just as President Nelson Mandela said, sport unifies people in ways little else can. Sport brings hope where there was once despair,” he said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 01/09/2024 - 13:26
Alexandra woman defies the odds
A love for dance has helped Nkateko Emily Mabasa defy the odds to become a community builder.
And we all know just how important a role communities can play in shaping who we become tomorrow. However, like with most things in life, it has not been an easy path for Mabasa.
The now 33-year-old Mabasa was diagnosed with mild spastic diplegia/diparesis Cerebral Palsy. This form of disability is characterised by frequent spasms and muscle tensing which saw her undergo an operation when she was seven years old.
While she had to use a wheelchair as well as go for physiotherapy throughout her school years, Mabasa’s medical condition did not stop her and she learned to walk, using crutches.
“I had difficulty speaking, which required that I get speech therapy. At 12, I was given my first set of crutches, which I have continued to rely on. These crutches has served as an indispensable aid in my day-to-day activities, and I have come to regard them as an essential part of my life,” Mabasa explained.
Growing up in Alexandra township in Gauteng, Mabasa described herself as someone who loves life, and always pursues her goals with vigour.
Armed with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Design, Mabasa is a strong believer of an inclusive and secure society, which drives her to show everyone that there is so much “beauty in our differences”.
It is not surprising that with her background, Mabasa is the founder of Phoenix Alexandra - an organisation that provides a range of activities for children and young adults to participate in. These activities include dancing, singing, drama/acting, spelling bees, modelling, a reading club, poetry, and chess club.
The idea to set up the organisation came after her friend, Joseph Setlhake, asked her to arrange a dance group to entertain people at an event in November 2020.
“Knowing that I am a dancer, he thought it would be a good idea to have me handle it. At first, we only had three people, but the number of children quickly grew to 40 before the event. Despite having only six weeks to prepare, we managed to pull it off, and the rest, as they say, is history.”
The organisation’s programmes cater for children between the ages of six and 17, as well as young adults who are committed to their growth and eager to learn about a positive body image, kindness, and the value of hard work.
Challenges
Despite the challenges associated with running an organisation, Mabasa’s Phoenix Alexandra has emerged stronger and continues to work with children to help cultivate their interests.
“As a community leader with a disability, I face challenges in securing funding and space for rehearsals and activities. I have been funding Phoenix Alexandra since its inception, and we utilise a limited space in front of my house for our rehearsals and activities.
“Additionally, to raise funds, I take bookings for motivational talks at corporate events. We have received support from parents through small donations, enabling our organisation to go on educational trips and do local performances for the community in the three years since our establishment,” she said.
The organisation is always looking to form partnerships with companies or like-minded organisations.
By working together, “we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others and create a more inclusive society,” she said.
Making a difference
Apart from having established the organisation, Mabasa is a Gold Award holder in South Africa for the President's Award for Youth Empowerment/Duke of Edinburgh International Award.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is the patron-in-chief of the President’s Award for Youth Empowerment. It is an initiative that encourages young South Africans to embark on a life changing journey that will mould them into responsible and committed individuals.
The Duke of Edinburgh award for its own part, dates back to 1956 and was initially intended for boys between the ages of 14 and 18 to assist in their development post World War 2. In 1958, the initiative was expanded to include girls.
In the 1980s, the scope of the award was broadened to include a skills section and the age limit extended to age 24. In 1994, the award programme was re-branded to cover the entire scope of youth empowerment. The award encourages young people from various backgrounds to become responsible, active citizens within communities.
Mabasa also served as a Director for The President's Award for Youth Empowerment/Duke of Edinburgh International Award Gauteng Youth Committee from 2018 to 2019.
“I am an entrepreneur, poet, dancer, choreographer, fashion designer, motivational speaker, and model. In 2017, I was recognised as a role model by the Valhalla Arts Tributes Awards, and in 2023, I was awarded the Sunday World Unsung Hero for the youth in Sports, Arts, and Culture award. These achievements have motivated me to continue making a difference in the lives of others,” she gushes.
Mabasa’s comments follow on the back of Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga’s address to the Representative Council of Learners Conference last year, in which she said that in the 21st century, South African youth must play a critical role in shaping the country’s future.
“As the generation that will inherit and lead the nation, youth have the potential to drive positive change, overcome societal challenges, and build a more inclusive and prosperous South Africa,” said the Minister in June 2023.
Mabasa is also the author of “Celebrating our differences embracing my superpowers”, a children’s book on disability.
Asked what the future holds for her organisation, Mabasa envisions expanding the scope of the organisation's services to encompass a broader range of underprivileged communities.
“This strategic move is aimed at serving a broader base of individuals who are in dire need of our services. Pursuing this goal, we remain committed to our core values of excellence, compassion, and professionalism.”
Her advice to young people, especially those living in townships and with disabilities, is that “every decision you make can influence your life.”
“Choose wisely and never let uncertainty prevent you from moving forward - because everything starts in your mind. I embrace my disability, but I never let it define my life.” - SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Mon, 01/08/2024 - 10:57
As the opening of the 2024 academic year approaches, many prospective tertiary students find themselves without the means to afford their studies. As the last Nelson Mandela once said, “education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”, but how does one afford to educate themselves with the high price …
President approves MoU to strengthen action against load shedding
President Cyril Ramaphosa has approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) entered into by Minister of Public Enterprises Pravin Gordhan and Minister of Electricity Kgosientsho Ramokgopa to better clarify their respective responsibilities with respect to Eskom and the resolution of the electricity crisis.
The MoU establishes a firm basis for a collaborative approach between the Ministers in exercising their assigned powers and functions.
“While significant progress has been made in reducing the severity of load shedding, much work still needs to be done to guarantee a secure supply of electricity. The collaborative approach outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding will further strengthen Eskom’s efforts to resolve the electricity crisis,” President Ramaphosa said in a statement on Friday.
The MoU outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Minister of Electricity as follows:
The Presidency said the MoU takes into account the Eskom Memorandum of Incorporation, which makes it obligatory to inform the Minister of Public Enterprises of critical decisions in this respect.
The MoU stipulates that the Minister of Public Enterprises will:
The MoU makes provision for regular review meetings between the Ministers to address any impediments to its implementation. The Ministers will also have regular review meetings with the President.
“The Ministers will work together more closely and with their respective responsibilities clearly outlined to ensure the effective implementation of the Energy Action Plan,” the President said.
The President announced the Energy Action Plan in July 2022 as South Africa’s plan to end load shedding and achieve energy security. It outlines a bold set of actions aimed at fixing Eskom and adding as much new generation capacity as possible, as quickly as possible, to close the gap in electricity supply.
The arrangement outlined in the MoU will be operational until the end of the current administration. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 01/05/2024 - 11:48
President Cyril Ramaphosa has approved a Memorandum of Understanding entered into by Minister of Public Enterprises Pravin Gordhan and Minister of Electricity Kgosientsho Ramokgopa to better clarify their respective responsibilities with respect to Eskom and the resolution of the electricity crisis. The MoU establishes a firm basis for a collaborative approach between the Ministers in exercising their assigned powers and functions.
The MoU outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Minister of Electricity as follows:
The MoU takes into account the Eskom Memorandum of Incorporation, which makes it obligatory to inform the Minister of Public Enterprises of critical decisions in this respect.
The MoU stipulates that the Minister of Public Enterprises will:
The MoU makes provision for regular review meetings between the Ministers to address any impediments to the implementation of the MOU. The Ministers will also have regular review meetings with the President.
Commenting on the MoU, President Cyril Ramaphosa said: “While significant progress has been made in reducing the severity of load shedding, much work still needs to be done to guarantee a secure supply of electricity. The collaborative approach outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding will further strengthen Eskom's efforts to resolve the electricity crisis.”
“The Ministers will work together more closely and with their respective responsibilities clearly outline to ensure the effective implementation of the Energy Action Plan,” he said.
The arrangement outlined in the MoU will be operational until the end of the current administration.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.
In a move to address challenges faced by African children and their schools posed by power outages and no access to power, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (http://www.EnergyChamber.org) has embarked on a transformative initiative that will see it provide, together with partners, off-grid solutions to thousands of schools across Africa. The program's pilot phase kicked off with the provision of a solar power system to Willow Crescent Secondary School in Eldorado Park, Johannesburg. Qualifying schools and projects must demonstrate an unwavering commitment to sustainable energy solutions and community empowerment.
The African Energy Chamber is a leading energy advocacy group dedicated to addressing energy poverty in Africa by 2030 by encouraging investments in the entire African energy value chain.
The AEC's donation of solar panels stands as a beacon of hope, ensuring a consistent and reliable power supply for the 1700 students, school, and staff of Willow Crescent Secondary School. This initiative directly addresses the critical need for uninterrupted electricity access during outages, guaranteeing an uninterrupted learning environment for young South African boys and girls.
"We express our deepest gratitude for the invaluable donation of solar panels, as during stage four of load shedding, our school heavily relied on a small generator, costing us between 1000 and 2000 rands in petrol just to power our admin block—an expense the school could not bear," said Olivia Hill, principal of Willow Crescent Secondary School.
Load shedding has become a major issue in South Africa, causing power outages for hours at a time.
Beyond the confines of the school grounds, this project will significantly impact the Eldorado Park community. By providing a dependable power source to a local educational institution, which is at the center of the entire community's wellbeing. This project not only provides a reliable power source for educational activities but also marks a step towards a more resilient and empowered community. The consistent electricity supply will markedly enhance the student's educational experience, creating boundless opportunities for growth, innovation, and a brighter future for the students and the community at large.
"As the African Energy Chamber, we are committed to fostering innovation and sustainable solutions. It is our goal to actively contribute to the development of communities through impactful initiatives. We are particularly committed to promoting sustainable access to power for young boys and girls in education." said Ms. Oneyka Cindy Ojogbo, a board member at the African Energy Chamber.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
news@energychamber.org
Tributes for Magubane continue
Tributes for the late veteran photographer Peter Magubane have continued to pour in.
Parliament’s Presiding Officers, led by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Amos Masondo, have joined the nation in mourning the passing of Magubane.
Magubane who passed away on Monday, cut his teeth as a photojournalist during apartheid and at the height of political segregation and oppression of the black majority in South Africa.
The Presiding Officers said Magubane made his name by documenting the country’s political and socio-economic injustices and major political events through scintillating photos.
“Mr Magubane stood out among the few journalists who braved the brutality of the apartheid regime by documenting the struggles of the black majority. He used his lens to shine a spotlight on the injustice meted out by the government of the day,” said the Presiding Officers in a statement on .
They said his photographic records of events like the Sharpeville massacre, the arrest of the late Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, the Rivonia Trial, the Women’s March to the Union Buildings against Pass Laws, and many other iconic moments were evidence of the might of his camera lens.
“His passing saddens us as it marks the end of an era of brave and fearless journalists who risked their lives to tell the South African story in every way possible. Through his lens, he contributed to the hard-earned democracy that we enjoy today. As a nation, we owe it to his legacy to continue to work tirelessly to get rid of all social ills,” said the Presiding Officers.
Parliament extended its deepest condolences to the Magubane family, his associates in the media and arts fraternity, and to all South Africans.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation also passed its condolences to the family and friends of Magubane.
“As an activist and documentary photographer, he was renowned for his courage in face of apartheid state brutality. His photographic record of the life and times of Nelson Mandela is both extensive and full of emblematic images.
“At critical moments during the years of struggle, he provided support to Mandela family members.”
The foundation worked closely with Ntate Magubane over the years on a variety of projects.
“In 2008 we became the custodians of his original exhibition “Mandela: Man of the People” and have presented versions of it to the public in our own facility and in partner institutions. We will miss Ntate Magubane’s dry sense of humour and his sharp eye, and will always value a body of work carrying great historical and artistic significance,” it said.
Meanwhile, Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa, visited the family of the legendary photographer and anti-apartheid activist in Johannesburg on Wednesday to pay his respects.
The Minister was joined by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Gauteng MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Morakane Mosupyoe.
The Minister, President Cyril Ramaphosa and Mosupyoe are among those who have expressed their condolences following the passing of the 91-year-old icon.
“I have learned with great sadness of the passing of… Peter Magubane. On behalf of government and the nation, I offer my deep condolences to the Magubane family, our veteran’s friends and his countless associates around the country and globally,” said President Ramaphosa.
The life and times of an icon
Magubane was born on 18 January 1932 Vrededorp (now Pageview, a suburb of Johannesburg), and grew up in Sophiatown. He began taking photographs as a schoolboy.
In 1954, he read a copy of Drum magazine, which detailed the effects of apartheid. He decided he wanted to be part of the magazine.
Magubane started employment at Drum as a driver. After six months of odd jobs, he was given a photography assignment under the mentorship of Jürgen Schadeberg, the chief photographer. He covered the 1955 African National Congress (ANC) convention.
Magubane photographed most of South Africa's historic moments, such as Sharpeville in 1960 and Nelson Mandela's Rivonia trial in 1964.
He was arrested in June 1969 while photographing protesters outside Pretoria Central Prison, where Winnie Madikizela Mandela was jailed. Magubane was later held in solitary confinement for 586 days.
Magubane has worked for Rand Daily Mail and has worked on assignments for Time magazine, the United Nations and Sports Illustrated photographing a series about the South African teenage runner, Zola Budd.
Following Mandela’s release from prison, Magubane became his official photographer in 1990, until he became the country’s President.
Magubane received several prestigious awards and honours throughout his illustrious career. Some of the notable recognitions he received include the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Press Photographers' Association (NPPA).
In 2017, Magubane was honoured with the Order of Luthuli in silver.
Other notable achievements include:
1958 – First black South African to win a photographic prize in the country – first and third prizes were awarded to him for Best Press pictures of the year.
1985 – Robert Capa Gold Medal.
1986 – Dr. Erich Salomon Award.
1992 – Special Missouri Honor Medal for Distinguished Service in Journalism.
1995 – Martin Luther King Luthuli Award.
1997 – Lifetime Achievement Award from the Mother Jones Foundation and Leica Cameras.
1997 – Fellowship by the Tom Hopkinson School of Journalism and Cultural Studies, University of Wales, Cardiff
1999 – Order for Meritorious Service Class II from President Mandela.
2003 – Honorary Doctorate degree from the University of South Africa.
2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Philosophy from the University of Fort Hare.
2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Technology from the Tshwane University of Technology.
2006 – Doctor of Law (honoris causa) Rhodes University.
2008 – Honorary Fellowship from the Royal Photographic Society, UK.
2010 – Cornell Capa Infinity Award from the International Center of Photography.
2010 – Honorary doctorate degree from Columbia College (Chicago).
2015 – Nat Nakasa Award for Media Integrity.
He published a total of 17 books, two of which were banned by the apartheid regime. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Thu, 01/04/2024 - 13:11
MEC commends Gauteng EMS festive season response
Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, has expressed satisfaction with how the Gauteng Emergency Medical Service (EMS) responded to emergencies during the festive period.
The MEC joined EMS personnel on the ground on New Year’s Eve, as they responded to emergency calls as part of the Safer Festive Season campaign.
Nkomo-Ralehoko said the work done by the Gauteng EMS, who are also known as the Green Angels, during the festive period demonstrated that the resources the Gauteng Department of Health has invested both in personnel and equipment are being put to good use.
The operation kicked off at the EMS Communication Centre in Midrand, where MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko joined the dedicated team of call centre operators to respond to incoming emergency calls to ensure prompt and efficient responses to save the lives of those in distress.
During the critical period between 6:00 AM on Sunday, 31 December 2023, and 6:00 AM on 1 January 2024, the Gauteng Emergency Communication Centre recorded a total of 1 914 calls. These calls included various incidents such as accidents, medical emergencies, suicide, trauma cases, and others,” said the Gauteng Department of Health in a statement on Tuesday.
The breakdown of calls is as follows:
- Accidents (motor vehicle, motor bike, pedestrians, etc.): 102 calls.
- Medical emergencies (maternity, asthma attack, epilepsy, heart attack, collapse, etc.): 898 calls.
- Suicide-related (poisoning, hanging, overdose, etc.): 42 calls.
- Trauma cases (assault, gunshot, burns, etc.): 468 calls.
“Comparing this data to the previous year, we have observed a minimal decline in call volumes. Around the same period in 2022/23, the Emergency Communication Centre recorded 1 929 calls (105 accidents, 862 medical, 53 suicide/attempts and 482 trauma cases).
“The statistics of emergency cases attended to between 15 December to 1 January in 2022/23 and 2023/24 cycles show that most of the calls were medical related, followed by trauma cases, accidents and suicide related calls.”
There has been a decline in medical related cases from 18 121 to 16 876, while trauma related cases have increased from 5 795 to 6 000.
There is also a slightly positive decline in suicide-related cases from 771 to 702. There was a slight increase in accident-related cases from 1 676 to 1 682.
The Gauteng Emergency Medical Services remains committed to its mission of saving lives and providing quality emergency medical care to the people of Gauteng.
“I want to commend our dedicated healthcare workers across the Gauteng health system, who have been working tirelessly during this busy period. Their dedication and professionalism is commendable,” said the MEC.
Nkomo-Ralehoko further expressed appreciation to the residents of Gauteng and those visiting the province for their continued cooperation and patience. She pleaded with them to make use of primary health facilities and only call the Emergency Communication Centre for actual medical and trauma emergencies, as this will greatly improve responses to those in distress.
“The statistics could be improved upon drastically if people were to act more responsibly and with consideration of others,” she said. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Wed, 01/03/2024 - 11:14