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By Vikesh Rampadarath (Associate Director at Regent Business School) A globalised and knowledge-based economy means businesses and industries are heavily reliant on skilled employees to drive innovation, productivity and overall business success. As the demand for specialised skills and expertise increases, organisations find themselves competing fiercely to secure the best talent available. Vikesh Rampadarath from …
According to Kaspersky research (https://apo-opa.info/46X8CgY) on mobile cyberthreat dynamics in Q2 2023, threats for mobile devices are growing worldwide. In particular, the number of mobile threats for Android devices [1] detected and blocked by Kaspersky (www.Kaspersky.co.za) in the Middle East, Turkiye, and Africa (META) region increased by 5% in Q2 2023 when compared to the same period last year. Given the ubiquity of mobile devices in Africa, recording such an increase is a cause for concern.
Among the most prevalent mobile threats that were detected in Africa are adware and mobile banking threats. The Kaspersky report indicates substantial adware detections in Q2 2023, with a spike of 94% in Nigeria, 39% in Kenya and 27% in South Africa. There was also a notable increase in the detections of mobile banking trojans in Q2 2023, which are used to hunt for data related to online banking and e-payment systems.
“As Africa witnesses an upsurge in smartphone adoption, combined with the burgeoning trend of mobile banking, it's imperative to address the inherent cybersecurity challenges that exist," says Bethwel Opil, Enterprise Client Lead at Kaspersky in Africa.
"The region, with its tech-savvy demographic and dynamic digital landscape, offers a fertile ground for cybercriminals to exploit and our research shows that cybercriminals are doing just that. This underscores the necessity for a forward-thinking and proactive approach to mobile cybersecurity for consumers and businesses alike. From banking malware targeting mobile transactions to ransomware hijacking device data, cybercriminals are continually evolving their tactics. Another cyberattack vector that we see cybercriminals focus on, and particularly in Africa, is outdated software. A considerable number of users in Africa make use of low-end or older mobile devices that may lack the latest security features and updates, making them more susceptible to mobile threats. Against this backdrop, it's not just about implementing cybersecurity solutions on mobile devices but also about educating users on best practices and the rapidly changing threat landscape.”
To mitigate against mobile cyberthreats, Kaspersky recommends:
"Mobile cybersecurity isn't merely about deploying security software. It requires a holistic approach, blending technology, user education, and industry collaboration. As we navigate this digital age, Kaspersky is committed to strengthening Africa's mobile cybersecurity landscape, ensuring that users can safely and confidently leverage the power of mobile technology," concludes Opil.
[1] Threat statistics in the report come from Kaspersky solutions running on Android devices. This mobile OS holds a dominant market share in the Middle East (https://apo-opa.info/3FyWbMC), Africa (https://apo-opa.info/3rY7ZVv) and Turkiye (https://apo-opa.info/3SgCyAw). Apple devices are not immune to cyberthreats (with the Triangulation attack (https://apo-opa.info/3oBaJ9D) uncovered by Kaspersky as the most recent example), but are difficult to monitor due to OS specifics.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kaspersky.
About Kaspersky:
Kaspersky is a global cybersecurity and digital privacy company founded in 1997. Kaspersky's deep threat intelligence and security expertise is constantly transforming into innovative solutions and services to protect businesses, critical infrastructure, governments and consumers around the globe. The company's comprehensive security portfolio includes leading endpoint protection, specialized security products and services, as well as Cyber Immune solutions to fight sophisticated and evolving digital threats. Over 400 million users are protected by Kaspersky technologies and we help over 220,000 corporate clients protect what matters most to them. Learn more at www.Kaspersky.co.za.
World Bank supports SA’s transition to cleaner energy with a $1 billion loan
The World Bank Board has committed to support South Africa’s efforts to promote long-term energy security and a low carbon transition with a $1 billion Development Policy Loan (DPL).
“We are pleased to support South Africa’s government, which has taken decisive reforms to address the challenges posed by the energy crisis. These reforms will benefit the people of South Africa - particularly the most vulnerable households - the economy, the environment, and advance the energy transition,” World Bank Country Director for South Africa Marie Francoise Marie-Nelly said on Wednesday.
The operation supports reforms in two critical areas. It facilitates the restructuring of the power sector through the unbundling of South Africa’s power utility, Eskom.
It supports the opening of the power market and aims at improving Eskom’s efficiency by redirecting its resources toward investments in transmission and maintenance of existing power plants.
The operation also supports a low carbon transition by encouraging private investment in renewable energy, including by households and small businesses, and strengthening carbon pricing instruments.
The World Bank noted that South Africa has been facing an ongoing energy crisis, which has had a marked negative impact on productivity and safety, at a time when the country has been working to implement a just transition to a low carbon economy.
In 2022, load shedding averaged eight hours per day, costing 2-3% of GDP growth to the economy.
“This operation comes at a crucial time for South Africa as it will provide much needed fiscal and technical support, enabling us to pursue our policy priorities in the energy sector including easing the electricity crisis in the long term, stimulating private sector engagement and creating jobs in the renewables space,” National Treasury Deputy-Director General: Asset and Liability Management Mmakgoshi Lekhethe said.
South Africa is among the world’s top 20 greenhouse gas (GHG) emitters. Energy represents 81% of South Africa’s emissions, of which 45% comes from electricity.
“The operation is expected to enhance economic activity and job creation from new investments in renewable energy generation. Poor and vulnerable households will be cushioned against recent increases in electricity tariffs. Poorer households and businesses - particularly women and Black women-owned businesses - will be supported through access to credit by commercial banks to enable them to invest in solar technology,” the World Bank said.
The operation will also contribute to gradual reductions in water and air pollution, as a result of reduced reliance on coal for power generation.
“This is anticipated to lead to substantial improvements in the quality of life of South African households in the long term. South African authorities will also receive technical assistance to identify future reforms necessary to manage the social costs associated with the decommissioning of coal-fired power.
“The operation has been a collaborative effort between the government, the World Bank and three partners, namely the African Development Bank (AfDB), KfW Development Bank (KfW), and Government of Canada. It was informed by South Africa’s development priorities, including the Presidential Energy Plan and the Just Energy Transition,” the World Bank said. – SAnews.gpv.za
nosihle
Thu, 10/26/2023 - 09:56
Call to reduce carbon emissions
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Environmental Affairs, Barbara Creecy, has called for nations to move with speed to reduce carbon emissions to limit the severity of climate change impacts.
“Simultaneously, we have to adapt and build resilience to the impacts that will occur, even in a 1.5 degree world. The Sixth Report of the International Panel on Climate Change shows us that the world is already dangerously close to an average temperature increase of 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial times,” the Minister said on Tuesday.
She was addressing the National Assembly debate on the Climate Change Bill, which will enable the orderly reduction of greenhouse gas emissions through the implementation of sectoral emission targets to guide the journey to the mid -century net- zero commitment.
The Bill will also ensure the country reaches its Nationally Determined Contribution by assigning individual enterprises carbon budgets and facilitating public disclosure of the progress.
“We know climate change impacts will hit the most vulnerable communities first, and will hit them the hardest. A key part of building climate resilience is to set up 'early-warning' systems so that communities can prepare for disasters before they happen,” the Minister said.
According to the Global Commission on Adaptation, knowing that a natural disaster event will happen 24 hours before it occurs can reduce damage by 30 percent.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment and the South African Weather Service (SAWS) currently provide regular weather updates and have technology that can give South African communities advanced warning of extreme weather events.
“Our fundraising efforts aim to improve existing infrastructure and replace outdated and dysfunctional systems. Responding to climate change is not the responsibility of government alone.
“Every aspect of society and the economy will be impacted upon. Consequently, the Bill will formally establish the Presidential Climate Commission as a statutory body to mobilise communities, organised labour, business and civil society to represent a whole of society response to future challenges,” Creecy said.
Last month, African leaders adopted the Nairobi Declaration on Climate Change and Call to Action, which recognises that decarbonising the global economy is an opportunity to contribute to equality and shared prosperity on our continent.
“In support of this vision, President Cyril Ramaphosa, at the United Nations Climate Summit, called on developed countries to meet the need for new, predictable public finance to support climate adaptation and build resilience to loss and damage in developing countries so that no country should ever have to choose between development aspirations and climate action.
“With abundant solar and wind resources, and significant reserves of critical minerals, South Africa is positioning itself to be a leader in renewable energy, green hydrogen and sustainable industrialisation.
“The Just Transition Framework developed by the Presidential Climate Commission aims to ensure that climate actions adhere to principles of procedural, restorative and distributive justice. Consequently as our country develops our vision of a Just Transition to a low carbon economy and climate resilient society we will ensure it is sustainable, inclusive, comprehensive and leaves no one behind,” the Minister said.
The Climate Change Bill will provide impetus for mainstreaming the country’s climate and disaster response by placing a legal obligation on every organ of state to coordinate and harmonise policies, plans, and programmes, to make sure climate change risks and associated vulnerabilities are acted upon by national, provincial and local government.
“Because sub national governments already face financial shortfalls, the Bill provides mechanisms for national government to provide additional support for our climate change response. Already the Department has mobilised finances to assist municipalities to prepare climate response strategies.
“Honourable members, government and society have already achieved a great deal through voluntary co-operation. With this important legal instrument, we are approving today, much more can be achieved for both people and nature,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 10/25/2023 - 09:37
KZN Premier calls for acceleration of critical infrastructure repairs
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has directed the provincial government to accelerate the urgent repairs of critical infrastructure, including homes, schools and roads, following the huge damage caused by thunderstorms and gale force winds over the weekend.
On Monday, Dube-Ncube, joined by Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, Human Settlements and Public Works MEC, Sipho Nkosi and uMkhanyakude District Municipality Mayor, Siphile Mdaka, led a provincial government oversight visit to the hard-hit area of Mtubatuba in the Inkosi Mtubatuba Local Municipality.
"Many schools and homes have been damaged and electricity infrastructure destroyed, leaving people homeless and in the dark. As the province, our budget alone will not suffice to cover the cost of this devastation,” Dube-Ncube said.
The Premier emphasised that all responsible officials must ensure classrooms are urgently cleared of debris where possible and temporary classroom structures are installed urgently where there is extensive damage to ensure that the commencement of matric examinations is not disrupted.
“I am deeply saddened by the devastating impact of the recent storm on these communities. We are actively devising plans to assist all those affected. We are engaging national government requesting support as we face this disaster,” the Premier said.
The death toll has risen to six people, with the discovery of another person struck by lightning in the Mpofana Local Municipality under Umgungundlovu District Municipality.
In Mtubatuba, five people, including a one-year-old child, lost their lives following structural collapse under heavy rains and strong winds.
The Premier affirmed the provincial government's commitment to aiding all grieving families with burial arrangements, with many having lost all their possessions during the storm.
“We have taken a decision that the provincial government will help families lay to rest their loved ones. Some families have indicated that they are unable to conduct these services on their own and we will make available the necessary support to make sure they are buried with dignity,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 10/25/2023 - 09:55
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The ‘Southern Africa Europe CEO Dialogue' is a powerful forum that has stimulated billons of rands in business and investment and as it marks its 10th anniversary it has attracted over 200 CEO's and influential public and private sector leaders this year.
The summit, taking place in Johannesburg's Melrose Arch on November 9 and 10, has become the key annual event for European and African political and business leaders to strengthen their strategic relationships.
The Southern Africa Europe CEO Dialogue was founded and organised by leading global think tank, The European House – Ambrosetti (TEHA), in collaboration with the Gauteng Province, the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency (GGDA), and a selection of international public and private stakeholders, including CLN-MA, Danieli, DHL, Aspen, Musina-Makhado SEZ, Italian Trade Agency, Brand SA and Italtile.
Confirmed speakers for this year's invitation only event includes Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, former Prime Minister of Italy Enrico Letta, Thebe Chairman Nhlanhla Nene, Angola's Secretary of State for Finance, Ottoniel dos Santos, the CEO of South African Breweries, Richard Rivett-Carnac, as well as the Director of Women in Capital Growth, Nomatemba Tambo among others.
Not to be missed this year is a special high-level political discussion on the state of South Africa, featuring President of the Economic Freedom Fighters Julius Malema, Action SA President Herman Mashaba, Democratic Alliance Leader John Steenhuisen, Inkatha Freedom Party President Velenkosini Hlabisa, and senior leadership of the ruling African National Congress.
“We are looking forward to an extraordinary 10th Anniversary, in times of unprecedented socio-economic changes and unexpected challenges such as the ongoing energy crisis, rising inflation, and geopolitical crises. In the last decade, our CEO Dialogue has demonstrated capacity to build an exclusive and influential community of leaders from SADC and Europe, able to partner together and foster the regional economic development. The aim is also to draw positive attention on strategic areas of economic cooperation and develop international partnerships,” said Pietro Mininni, CEO, TEHA Africa, ahead of the summit.
Some of the topics to be covered in the 2023 agenda are:
- The African geopolitical, business and investment outlook
- CEO's views on African business
- Perspectives and development of the agroindustry in SADC - Energy transition and critical raw materials
- The future of South Africa.
This edition of the Southern Africa Europe CEO Dialogue will be enhanced with side events on these themes:
- Doing business in Gauteng
- Young business leaders today
- High-level bilateral business meetings
The summit's primary goal is to foster in-depth interaction among peers and government officials and promote growth with a multi-stakeholder approach.
For further information about the summit go to: www.Ambrosetti.EU
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The European House - Ambrosetti.
Contact:
Johannesburg
The European House – Ambrosetti
Filippo.malinverno@ambrosetti.eu
Didiza to commemorate World Food day in KZN
Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Thoko Didiza, together with KwaZulu-Natal Agriculture and Rural Development MEC, Super Zuma, and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), will on Thursday commemorate World Food Day (WFD) at iLembe District Municipality.
The event, which will take place at Esixeni Sports Field, aims to inform communities on ways to mitigate the impact of rising food prices through the establishment of food gardens and supporting agricultural cooperatives in attaining food security, job creation and economic growth.
The WFD also aims to deepen public awareness of the plight of the hungry and undernourished in the world, and to encourage communities to take measures to combat hunger.
The day will be observed under the theme: 'Water is Life, Water is Food. Leave No One Behind', highlighting the critical role of water for life on earth and water as the foundation of food.
Didiza and senior government officials will visit projects and households.
“It is also expected that some of the indigent households in identified communities will receive food parcels and agricultural support,” the department said in a statement.
About World Food Day
World Food Day is commemorated annually on 16 October in remembrance of founding the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations in 1945 as an organisation that deals with global food and agricultural issues.
The conference of FAO proclaimed World Food Day in 1979 to heighten public awareness of the world food problem and strengthen solidarity in the struggle against hunger, malnutrition and poverty.
The objectives of World Food Day are:
• To inform South Africans on the National Policy on Food and Nutrition Security.
• To heighten public awareness on issues such as absence and scarcity of food in the country and to strengthen solidarity in the struggle against hunger, malnutrition and poverty.
• To promote food production and to stimulate national, bi-lateral, trans-national and non-governmental initiatives.
• To encourage research and technology development for the development of symbiotic ecological food production systems to ensure sustainable food production.
• To enhance the participation of rural people, particularly women and the under privileged in decisions and events impacting their living conditions.
• To heighten public awareness on the government programmes aimed at halving hunger in South Africa.
• To raise awareness of the public regarding the contribution of indigenous forests to food security and nutrition. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 10/25/2023 - 12:22
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Ensuring education for all
While challenges in the education sector remain, gains are being made to ensure learning for all.
The results of Census 2022 released recently, not only revealed that the country’s population grew to 62 million from 51.7 million in 2011, but also that the population remains relatively youthful. The data showed that 61.2% of the population is under the age of 35.
Of key interest of the data released is that of accomplishments in the education sector, given the country’s history of the exclusion of the majority.
Section 29 of South Africa’s Bill of Rights speaks to the fact that everyone has the right to basic education, including adult basic education; and to further education, which the state, through reasonable measures, must make progressively available and accessible.
Since South Africa attained democracy close to 30-years ago, government has put in place various measures to ensure access to education for all. These measures include the introduction of no-fee schools, school nutrition programmes and access to scholar transport.
The 2022 Census - which is the fourth to be conducted in democratic South Africa - notes that access to educational institutions is an important step to universal education, but that “the ultimate goal would be to keep children at school until completion of their education.”
According to the census, in 2022, 73.4% of the population aged 5-24 years were attending school, up from the 70.1% recorded in democratic South Africa’s first census in 1996.
The census plays an essential role in planning, policy formulation, evaluation and budget allocation of the country.
It also revealed that the percentage of those aged 20 years and older who completed secondary education more than doubled from 16.3% in 1996 to 37.6% in 2022.
This as the Department of Basic Education has acknowledged a slight rise in the number of those not attending educational institutions.
“We do acknowledge that there has been a slight increase in the number of 5-24-year-olds not attending an educational institution since the last census in 2011, of about 200 000. However, this is partly due to population growth (the number of 5-24-year-olds attending has increased by even more) and [is] partly due to earlier completion of schooling,” said the department’s spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga.
Additionally, the data showed that over 14.1 million of those aged 20 and above, completed secondary education in 2022, followed by 11.9 million who achieved some secondary education and 4.6 million who attained post-school education.
Mhlanga said the average age of youths successfully completing a National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification has been gradually lowering over the years.
“The result is an astonishing trend over time; the percentage of 22-25-year-olds attending education actually decreased from 16.4% in 2002 to 15.8% in 2021. Yet, over the same period, the percentage of 22-25-year-olds having completed grade 12 increased dramatically from 39% to 62%.”
He pointed out that the country’s school system used to be far more inefficient, with many children staying in school into their twenties but then exiting without having completed Grade 12.
“These days, children repeat less, are less likely to be in school into their twenties, but most important of all, they are much more likely to successfully complete a National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification,” he explained.
COVID-19 and challenges
He also touched on the impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic, which disrupted schooling.
“The Minister’s [Angie Motshekga] move to reopen schools in spite of the fear and criticism has now been fully vindicated. The spread of the virus was not affected by reopening schools, and despite worries about increased dropping out of school during the pandemic, the opposite happened; more candidates wrote and passed the matric exams in 2020, 2021 and 2022 than ever before.”
He added that the department is well aware of the challenges in the education sector.
“The quality of learning in the early grades, especially in foundational literacy and numeracy, remains a critical priority, and was negatively impacted by the pandemic.
“Another challenge, or rather opportunity, is to improve the quality of Early Childhood Development opportunities now that this responsibility has been shifted from the Department of Social Development to Basic Education.”
Census 2022 revealed that 3.4 million children aged 0–4 years participated in the Early Childhood Development (ECD) programme.
Last year, government moved the responsibility of the provision of the ECD programme from the Department of Social Development to the Department of Basic Education. In June, Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Basic Education received a progress report from the Department of Basic Education (DBE).
“We must acknowledge the challenges that exist in South African education, but all the trends in access, equity, quality and efficiency are overwhelmingly positive,” said Mhlanga.
Development
Reacting to the census results, Cabinet said the country has been developing over the course of the last 29 years.
This is in addition to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call to government departments, policy makers, researchers, civil society organisations and international organisations to use information from Census 2022 to collectively strive to improve people’s lives.
“Census 2022 has told us where we are making progress, but it has also laid bare the challenges that remain. It will be an invaluable tool in meeting those challenges. We now have the information we need to ensure that as we build this country, we leave no one behind,” the President said as he received the results of the count from Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke.
The population and housing census was conducted in February 2022 and provides comprehensive data on population size, demographic trends and other service delivery related information. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 14:50
SA enters documentary on Dr Joseph Shabalala to compete at Oscars
South Africa has submitted a film about Ladysmith Black Mambazo founder and musical director Dr Joseph Shabalala for consideration to compete in the International Feature Film category for the 96th Annual Academy Awards (Oscars).
“Music is My Life tells the story of the late South African musician Shabalala, who rose to international acclaim with his band Ladysmith Black Mambazo and contributed to Paul Simon’s successful Graceland album,” the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) said.
Produced by the seasoned award-winning producer, Carolyn Carew, the feature documentary film was shot over a period of five years and Shabalala’s creative process through the inspiring lense of his life.
“It is always a great and privileged opportunity to have a South African film represent the country at the global industry’s foremost awards. The fact that this particular film tells the authentic South African story of the iconic Dr Shabalala, is even more special,” NFVF Acting CEO Thobela Mayinje said.
The NFVF said the film is an engaging tribute to South Africa’s diverse culture, one of South Africa’s most distinct traditional musical forms, isicathamiya, and the man with a remarkable voice who made it globally relevant.
“Since its release, the film has screened at a number of local and international film festivals and has garnered critical acclaim by audiences in countries like America, New Zealand, Australia and Spain, to name a few. Locally, Music is My Life screened at the Labia Cinema for over five days and on what would have been Dr Shabalala’s 83rd birthday, the public broadcaster’s SABC 1 channel aired the film,” the foundation said.
The decision to enter the film was made after a rigorous judging process by the South African Academy Awards Selection Committee.
This year’s committee comprised a diverse group of seasoned industry professionals from various fields within the film industry, who were submitted to and approved by the Academy.
“Once the call for submissions closed on 10 August 2023, the committee evaluated a total of four film submissions from 18 to 22 September 2023, at Nu Metro cinemas in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.
“The submissions were evaluated based on the Academy Awards’ Best International Feature Film eligibility criteria. The NFVF appointed a reputable firm, SNG Grant Thornton to assess the overall judging process and ensure the integrity of the process.
“Once the committee had deliberated in its meeting held on 22 September 2023, the submission Music is My Life - Joseph Shabalala and Ladysmith Black Mambazo received the highest votes as the official selection once the scores were tallied and vetted by the auditors,” the foundation said.
The official nominations for the 96th Annual Academy Awards will be announced on 23 January 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 14:53
As part of GE Vernova's (https://www.GEVernova.com/) commitment to support communities in areas it operates in, GE Vernova's Steam Power business, is proud to announce the handover of the Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre, a first-of-its-kind primary healthcare facility in Delmas, Mpumalanga, South Africa. The clinic was officially handed over to the Mpumalanga Department of Health and marked by an official opening ceremony in Nkangala District of Victor Khanye Local Municipality.
The Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre represents an approximated R75 million investment towards the turnkey construction and full equipment kitting of the clinic in efforts to uplift the local healthcare infrastructure. The clinic will play a critical role in meeting the growing healthcare demands of the community and its surrounding areas. Up to 100 000 local beneficiaries will have access to comprehensive primary healthcare services including 24-hour emergency care, maternity, dentistry, eyecare, medical dispensary, and mental healthcare services.
While Botleng Extension 6, part of a rapidly growing settlement in Victor Khanye Local Municipality was being serviced by a mobile clinic with restricted services that visits the area twice a week, the new clinic will alleviate the community's burden of travelling great distances to access quality healthcare services. The state-of-the-art facility boasts of a cutting-edge maternity ward equipped with premium GE Healthcare ultrasound/V-scan equipment, ensuring precision healthcare for expectant mothers and their babies. In addition to this, GE Healthcare will roll-out technical, clinical, and soft skills training programmes for nurses and midwives at the clinic, enhancing the quality of healthcare services.
Premier of Mpumalanga, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane expressed the provincial government's gratitude for this significant contribution to the healthcare infrastructure in the region. "This facility will be heralded and safeguarded by generations to come. Not only has it exceeded our standard infrastructural requirements but should be used as a benchmark for public service and infrastructural excellence," Mtshweni-Tsipane stated. "Thank you for leading by example and being a prime example of how private public partnerships can significantly aid our efforts and serve as catalysts for sustainable employment opportunity creation in our communities."
In line with its continuous strategy to empower local businesses, GE Vernova's Steam Power business supported local businesses and communities throughout the construction process where GVK-Siyazama Construction served as the principal contractor, overseeing construction activities. A minimum of 30% of the work was sub-contracted to local Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), and the general workforce was sourced entirely from the local community and empowered through accredited trade and skills development trainings. It was critical for the clinic's design approach to incorporate ecologically conscious solutions like rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient fittings and low maintenance landscaping throughout the construction process.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Emmanuel Thouet, GE Vernova's Steam Power SSA Regional Leader, expressed the company's commitment to driving social change through public-private partnerships. " Over the years, large infrastructure projects have provided us opportunities to create jobs and develop the critical skills needed to drive continuous growth in the energy sector. We recognize that for us to make a sustainable impact, we must be deliberate in our efforts to support social change," he stated. "Through our expertise and innovation, we are able to address social challenges by creating shared value. We are proud to be part of this transformative project that will significantly improve the social and economic vitality of the Botleng Extension 6 community."
Zandile Shange, Eskom General Manager for Kusile Power Plant Project, expressed her enthusiasm for the community-centric partnership Eskom enjoys with GE Vernova's Steam Power business in delivering this essential healthcare facility. " Health and wellness are fundamental human rights for all South Africans," Shange said. "The Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre represents a crucial step in providing accessible healthcare services to the people of this region. We are proud to be part of this initiative, which aligns with our mission to support the well-being of our communities and in accordance with one of our core values, ‘Sinobuntu'."
The Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between industry leaders, government agencies, and the community to address critical healthcare needs and uplift local communities.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GE.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Kashumba Macombe
Middle East & Africa Content Creation & Communications Specialist
GE Vernova
+27 71 372 3110
Kashumba.Macombe@ge.com
About GE Vernova:
GE Vernova is a planned, purpose-built global energy company that includes Power, Wind, and Electrification segments and is supported by its accelerator businesses of Advanced Research, Consulting Services, and Financial Services. Building on over 130 years of experience tackling the world's challenges, GE Vernova is uniquely positioned to help lead the energy transition by continuing to electrify the world while simultaneously working to decarbonize it. GE Vernova helps customers power economies and deliver electricity that is vital to health, safety, security, and improved quality of life. GE Vernova is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S., with more than 80,000 employees across 140+ countries around the world. GE Vernova's Steam Power business provides a broad portfolio of technologies and services that help industrial and non-renewable energy power plants deliver reliable power as they transition to a lower carbon future.
GE Vernova's mission is embedded in its name –it retains its legacy, “GE,” as an enduring and hard-earned badge of quality and ingenuity. “Ver” / “verde” signal Earth's verdant and lush ecosystems. “Nova,” from the Latin “novus,” nods to a new, innovative era of lower carbon energy. Supported by the Company Purpose,The Energy to Change the World, GE Vernova will help deliver a more affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy future. Learn more: GE Vernova (https://www.GEVernova.com/) and LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.info/3Qc09j6).
CAPE TOWN, WESTERN CAPE – FUTURELIFE®, a leading food company wholly owned by PepsiCo South Africa, celebrated the grand opening of its second concept store at Canal Walk in Cape Town on October 18, 2023. This event comes just four months after the inauguration of its flagship store in Umhlanga’s Oceans Mall. According to Justine …
Western Cape prepares for record-breaking summer tourism season
With preparations for the summer tourism season underway, the Western Cape province will - for the first time ever - have more than one million in-bound international seats, breaking the record for travellers during the festive season.
“Looking ahead, Cape Town International Airport’s seat capacity for summer 2023/24 is estimated to increase by an impressive 25%, compared to the same period last year. This means that inbound international seats this summer will exceed 1 million, for the first time ever,” the MEC for Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger, said on Sunday.
She said the province is pleased with the significant progress made over the past year in bringing the private and public sectors together to implement practical solutions to combat and pre-empt safety risks for visitors.
"Over the 2023/24 season, 250 tourism monitors will be deployed across the Western Cape to identified hotspots, and will be trained and equipped with mobile apps to link them to critical security services,” she said.
In addition, the Department of Economic Development and Tourism and Cape Town Tourism will implement tourist-in-distress programmes, which ensure that visitors have professional support available when they most need it.
“I am also pleased that the Department of Tourism has secured a commitment from South African Police Service (SAPS) that police reservists will be available during the summer season to assist with tourism safety,” she said.
The MEC said work is being prioritised to ensure a successful upcoming season, as well as future seasons.
“At the top of my list is making it as easy as possible for international visitors to holiday in the Western Cape and South Africa. I am determined to work with our national government partners to fix the inefficiencies. I therefore welcome the commitment from the Department of Home Affairs that the long overdue Remote or Digital Nomad Visa will be live by the end of March 2024,” Wenger said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 10/22/2023 - 10:38
Agripreneurship: a solution to enhance food security as global conflict proves a recurring threat to SA’s vulnerable food supply chain. 19 October 2023: Recent global conflicts such as the Ukraine-Russia War continue to send shockwaves throughout the world. Their impact has laid bare the critical need for developing African markets, such as South Africa (SA), …
Gauteng launches auto body workshop for its fleet management entity
The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has launched a state-of-the-art Panel Beating and Apprenticeship Training Workshop, which is set to benefit graduates, informal businesses and entrepreneurs.
Addressing the launch on Friday in Johannesburg, Department of Roads and Transport Director of Fleet Maintenance Unit at g-FleeT Management Sifiso Mhlongo explained that the new Panel Beating Workshop will offer full cycle panel beating services for all g-FleeT vehicles involved in accidents.
G-FleeT Management is a Trading Entity of the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport and is a provider of vehicle leasing and fleet management services for the public sector in South Africa whose clients include National, Gauteng Provincial and local government departments.
Historically, accident repairs have been outsourced through the RT46 Transversal Contract by the National Treasury of South Africa.
“Accident repairs are one of the major cost drivers for g-FleeT. Therefore, the main objective of the New Panel Beating Workshop is to assist g-FleeT to be in total control of a major part of its value chain, which impacts on the quality of fleet, turnaround times, customer satisfaction and g-FleeT’s self-sustainability,” Mhlongo said.
The anticipated benefits of the workshop include improved cost control, quality of repairs, skills development for qualified artisans and experienced staff as well as satisfied clients and self-sustainability of the entity.
“The Panel Beating facility would be manufacturer approved, and this would enable all repairs to be carried out at the manufacturer’s strict criteria and standard, with a plan to obtain industry Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), South African Motor Body Repairers' Association (SAMBRA) and Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA (MERSETA) accreditation.
“It also has a built-in Training Facility for technical training and skills development, which would help g-FleeT contribute to the development of technical skills categorized as critical and scarce in the country.
“The Entity plans to operationalise the panel beating workshop, gradually build up internal capacity, and consider adopting a hybrid approach for in-sourcing and outsourcing of accident repairs,” he said.
G-FleeT has partnered with the Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) to operationalise the Panel Beating Workshop, as the entity does not have the necessary skills internally.
“AIDC is a subsidiary of the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency, which is an agency of the Gauteng Department of Economic Development. They specialize in both Automotive Hub establishment and Technical Skills Development, which made them a strategic fit for the operationalization of the Panel Beating Workshop, with an In-house Training Facility,” Mhlongo said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 10/20/2023 - 13:58
Introduction: In the dynamic realm of retail, businesses often find themselves facing the challenge of managing surplus inventory. This surplus, often termed as overstock, poses a significant obstacle for companies striving to maintain efficiency and optimise their bottom line. In such circumstances, stock clearance becomes an imperative strategy. This blog explores the concept of stock …
Life insurer Bidvest Life says that speed makes all the difference when it comes to paying claims. This is particularly important for income protection which is purchased to replace lost earnings when the life insured is unable to work. In 2022, the average time from lodging an income protection claim until the first payment was …
Should you have a main prepaid electricity meter in your home it may have to be ‘recoded’ in order to continue dispensing electricity after November 2024. Please note that this also applies to PRIVATE pre-paid meters as supplied by Straton Electrical Pre-Paid and the many other vendors around the world. With regards to the main …
Featuring a diverse group of influential women leaders in the energy sector, a Women in Energy Roundtable Discussion was held during the African Energy Week (AEW) 2023 conference and exhibition. The panel explored innovative strategies and collaborative efforts to ensure access to affordable and reliable energy for all Africans, with women at the forefront of progress.
Moderated by Grace Orife, CEO of Adelaar Energy, the roundtable was hosted by the African Women Business Energy Network and bp SA.
The discussion kicked off with Sarah Baashan, Head of Global Insights and Engagements, Saudi Aramco, providing insight into how Africa can address its current energy challenges while also ensuring a sustainable future. She stated that, “We need to increase energy generation capacity while guaranteeing that energy produced is affordable. At the same time, we should not forget decarbonization, as it is crucial for a healthy environment.”
Baashan added that the continent hosts the world's youngest workers, and therefore, should prioritize creating more job opportunities to advance sustainable socioeconomic development. Ibi Ogunbiyi, Partner at Olaniwun Ajayi, added that the continent needs to adopt a “compromised strategy where we are having hydrocarbons producing baseload power and off-grid and other renewable systems providing access to underserved communities.” She also believes that, “Gas should serve as a transition fuel.”
Additionally, the panel identified a lack of adequate infrastructure and project financing across the value chain as key challenges hindering the expansion of African energy economies. Commenting on how the continent can address infrastructure deficits, Oluseyi Afolabi, Principal Consultant/CEO at Reservoir and Facilities Solutions Nigeria, stated that it starts with African governments prioritizing the development of assets which allow secure and resilient generation and transportation of energy to both rural and urban communities.
“Investments in the research and development of innovative solution needs to also be prioritized while streamlining the deployment of projects and ensuring construction is fast-tracked. Lastly, there is a need for maximizing value addition in local content development in projects rollout,” added Afolabi.
Echoing Afolabi's notion, Allyson Anderson Book, Chief Sustainability Officer at Baker Hughes, said increasing investments in Africa's capacity building initiatives is crucial for the diversification of Africa's energy mix and for the continent to be able to reduce the reliance on international aid.
Commenting on the factors that have influenced the current state of Africa's energy industry, Taelo Mojapelo, CEO of bp SA, stated that, “Energy demand is growing by at least 3% a year while investments in new projects have been slow. We have also failed to define our own principles, hence we have significant inequality which are compromising [progress regarding] Sustainable Development Goals. We need to exploit all the energy resources we have including coal, gas and oil before we do into the transition.”
Ayanda Noah, Chairperson of South Africa's Central Energy Fund, provided insight into best practices for the continent to improve its current energy status. According to Noah, governments should improve cooperation with the private sector, and that “Connectivity and collaboration at the basic level is crucial. Africa has tangible examples of interconnectivity success projects such as the Southern African Power Pool which we can maximize to enhance energy security. Women have the potential to be innovative, coming up with out-of-the-box solutions to critical energy challenges.”
Amb. Martha Nyamal Choat, Deputy Managing Director and CEO, Nile Petroleum Corporation, shared similar remarks, adding that for African projects to be able to attract private investments, governments need to ensure security and market stability which are absent in an increasing number of African countries.
Shirley Webber, Head of Natural Resources & Energy at ABSA, concluded the session by adding that in addition to market stability, governments need to prioritize Environmental Social Governance and the adoption of a mix of financing mechanisms for the different energy infrastructure development projects.
#AEW2023 – organized by the African Energy Chamber – takes place this week in Cape Town under a mandate to make energy poverty history by 2030. Keep following www.aecweek.com for more exciting information and updates about Africa's premier energy event.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
Cabinet calls on SA to support national sports teams
Cabinet has called on the nation to rally behind the national teams in their battle against England at the Cricket World Cup in India and the Rugby World Cup in France.
“On Saturday, 21 October 2023, two of South Africa’s biggest national teams will play against England in their respective World Cup matches. Our national teams continue to remind us of the best of South Africa and they are the best display of our unity as a nation with a single national identity – just being a South African.
“As the Proteas and Springboks enter the battle fields, it is our responsibility as the nation to let them feel the spirit and vibe of the resilient nation behind them,” Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday in Pretoria.
She was addressing the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.
Matric exams
Meanwhile, the National Senior Certificate matric exams will commence on 30 October 2023.
“Cabinet extends its well wishes to the Class of 2023 and all other learners who will be writing their final examinations. Cabinet calls on parents and guardians to support learners during this critical period in their academic journey,” Ntshavheni said.
Medium Term Budget Policy Statement
Cabinet has encouraged South Africans to tune into the 2023 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) on 1 November 2023.
The MTBPS details adjustments to the national budget and it is an important part of South Africa’s open and accountable budget process. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 10/19/2023 - 10:34
Rehabilitation, a beacon of hope for many individuals grappling with addiction and mental health challenges, holds a transformative power that can change lives. In the heart of South Africa, rehab facilities play a pivotal role in helping individuals reclaim their lives from the clutches of substance abuse and mental health disorders. Let’s explore the rehabilitation …
A high-level panel at Critical Minerals Africa 2023 – organized by Energy Capital & Power (https://www.EnergyCapitalPower.com) – discussed how sustainable practices, localized supply chains and integrated mining operations will help secure critical minerals supplies of the future.
Moderated by Olimpia Pilch, Founder and COO of Critical Minerals International Alliance, the panel featured Kwasi Ampofo, Head of Metals and Mining, BloombergNEF; Alex Benkenstein, Head of the Climate and Natural Resources Programme, South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA); Dr. Marit Y. Kitaw, Interim Director, African Minerals Development Center (AMDC); Deshan Naido, Managing Director, AQORA; and Duma Sisulu, Co-Founder & Chief Analyst, Parime Battery Minerals.
The panel sought to explore the future of Africa's minerals economy in light of growing demand for clean energy technologies and mounting pressure to decarbonize existing mining activities and maximize resource efficiency.
Speaking to the scope of demand growth for energy transition mineral and metals, Kwasi Ampofo noted: “We currently use 50 million metric tonnes of metals going into transition technologies and accompanying infrastructure. By 2050, if we reach the scenario based on current policies and economics, we will need about 140 million metric tonnes. If we reach the net-zero scenario, this goes up to 250 million metric tonnes.”
In evaluating the strength of Africa's currently local and regional supply chains, panelists evaluated strategies that can be implemented to ensure their resilience and build more localized value chains, which can help achieve market stability.
“There's a lot of discussion around demand, but we don't see the same enthusiasm around funding supply. There is a shortfall in supply, which then spikes demand. Every time the price drops – for example, in nickel – there will be producers who are unable to match the current supply at that price. We will then have a continuation of these supercycles, which is not sustainable,” commented Duma Sisulu.
“If the critical minerals supply chain doesn't change, then we have failed as Africans. We have the opportunity to do what the international oil giants did 50-60 years ago. We have the bargaining power for the deposits that sit on the continent,” said Deshan Naido.
According to the panel, the future of Africa's critical minerals will involve mining companies diversifying their operations across multiple sectors, while fostering synergy among mining and energy sectors, owing to Africa's acute energy deficit. Establishing value-added activities will also be essential to maximizing resource efficiency and ensuring the sustainability of the extractive sector.
“Africa does not have to accept its position within global supply chains… Mineral processing is energy intensive and requires a steady supply. This is not an absolute barrier – it can be rectified – which has been seen by the influx of investment by mining companies in South Africa to invest heavily in renewable energy technologies,” stated Alex Benkenstein.
“The only way to transform lives is to add value – job creation, skills transfer, economies of scale, transformation and growth. This gives us the opportunity to set the agenda — we need processing, refining and value addition,” emphasized Dr. Marit Y. Kitaw.
The Critical Minerals Africa 2023 summit is currently taking place from October 17-19 and serves to position Africa as the primary investment destination for critical minerals. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week 2023 conference (https://AECWeek.com/) on October 16-20, offering delegates access to the full scope of energy, mining and finance leaders in Cape Town.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
The UK announced a pledge to help African countries expand their critical mineral supply chains – with a focus on promoting mineral exploration and processing, generating value-added activities and creating local jobs – during the Critical Minerals Africa 2023 summit on Wednesday.
“African countries rightly have a high level of ambition for unlocking the value of their natural resources and the UK will work with them in partnership to support delivery of their ambitions,” stated Ambassador Antony Phillipson, British High Commissioner to South Africa. “We are committed to increasing our investment in the continent and strengthening the transparency and resilience of the supply chain for critical minerals – creating green jobs in Africa, while taking action on climate change.”
To be launched next week, the pledge will take the form of an initial R20-million contribution and comes on the back of growing cooperation between the UK and Africa in the critical minerals arena. Last November, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa conducted a state visit to the UK seeking to leverage British capital and technology toward building South Africa's industrial capacity. The UK already represents the largest international investor in South Africa, which is home to 80% of global platinum group metal reserves, 70% of global manganese reserves, and substantial reserves of vanadium and magnesium.
The UK is also set to host the second edition of its African Investment Summit in London next April, which aims to promote bilateral trade and investment and strengthen UK-African partnerships.
The Critical Minerals Africa 2023 summit is currently taking place from October 17-19 and serves to position Africa as the primary investment destination for critical minerals. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week 2023 conference (https://AECWeek.com/) on October 16-20, offering delegates access to the full scope of energy, mining and finance leaders in Cape Town.
The Critical Minerals Africa Summit is organized by Energy Capital & Power.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.