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Census 2022 shows improvement in basic services   

Location: News

Census 2022 shows improvement in basic services   

South Africa’s first digital census shows an increase in the proportion of households that had access to piped water inside their dwelling, from 32.3% in 2001 to 46.3% in 2011 and to 59.7% in 2022.

This is according to the South Africa's Census 2022 national results, which was handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa by Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Tuesday.

The data shows that in 2022 over four-fifths (82.4%) of households in the country had access to piped water either inside their dwelling or inside their yard.

“The proportion of households that accessed piped water off-site (from a water source outside the yard such as a neighbour or from a community stand) halved from 17.9% in 2011 to 8.9% in 2022.

“Households in the Western Cape were more likely to have piped water inside their dwelling (85.5%) compared to Limpopo, where less than one-third (31.4%) accessed piped water inside their dwelling.

“Although the national picture regarding access to piped water shows improvement over the years, there is a sizeable proportion of households in Limpopo (20.5%) and Eastern Cape (19.5%) with no access to piped water.

“The majority of households across the three censuses made use of a regional/local water scheme as their main source of water. This proportion increased steadily from 74.7% in 2001 to 79.7% in 2011 and to 82.7% in 2022,” Maluleke said.

There has been an increase in the percentage of households that used a flush toilet as their main type of toilet facility during this period (+18.9 percentage points).

However, the percentage of households that used a pit toilet without ventilation and households with no form of toilet facility declined during the same period, from 22.8% to 12.5% and from 13.6% to 1.6% respectively

Energy

The proportion of households using electricity as the main source of energy for lighting increased significantly from 58.1% in 1996 to 94.7% in 2022; conversely, the use of paraffin and candles as the main source of energy for lighting decreased.

Electricity was the main source of energy for lighting across all provinces.

In 1996, 28.8% of households utilised candles for lighting compared to the 3.2% in 2022.

The use of paraffin declined, with only 0.9% of households using it for lighting compared to the 12.7% in 1996.

“It is noted that the country recorded an upward trend in refuse removed by a local authority regularly, an increase from 52% in 1996 to 66% in 2022. Approximately two-thirds (66.3%) of households in the country had their refuse removed by a local authority once a week whilst one in four households used their own refuse dump (22.3%).

“The percentage of households with no refuse removal or using their own refuse dump both decreased over the same period. In 1996, 32.6% of households used their own refuse dump and 9.7% did not have any refuse removal,” he said.

In 2022, households using their own refuse dump decreased to 22.3% and those with no refuse removal halved to 4.5%

SA population

According to South Africa's Census 2022 national results, the population increased from 40.5 million in 1996 to just over 62 million in 2022; an increase of over 21.4 million people in 26 years.

“Black Africans remain consistently the dominant population group at a proportion of more than 80%, followed by the coloured and white populations at 8.2% and 7.3% in 2022, respectively.

“On the other hand, the Indian/Asian population comprised less than 3% of the population over the years. The age-sex structure indicates some decline in the ages between 0 and 29 years when compared to the 2011 distribution,” Maluleke said.

The sex ratio in the country decreased from 98.8 in 2011 to 94.1 in 2022. Gauteng reported the highest ratio at 101.8 in 2022, suggesting that there are more males than females in the province compared to the other provinces.

“Furthermore, the median age in the country was 28 years in 2022, showing an increase of three years from 25 years in 2011. It was highest in the Western Cape and lowest in Limpopo at 31 and 26 years, respectively.

“The median age of the white population was 45 years while that of the black African population was 27 years in 2022. The majority (62.2%) of the population has never been married, while 24% indicated that they are legally married,” Maluleke said.

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

 

nosihle
Thu, 10/12/2023 - 10:54

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Eskom board chairperson steps down

Location: News

Eskom board chairperson steps down

Eskom board chairperson, Mpho Makwana, is expected to step down from his role at the power utility’s next AGM scheduled for the end of October.

This was announced by the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) in a statement.

Makwana is expected to be replaced by current board member, Mteto Nyati, as chairperson, with a handover process to be done throughout this month.

Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan said: “We wish to thank Mr Makwana for his contribution during the most difficult time for Eskom. We wish him well in his future endeavours.

“Our efforts to stabilise Eskom and restructure it into three subsidiaries -- generation, transmission and distribution -- remain on track. As government, we are committed to ensuring that Eskom has the right skills, talent and experience to support our pursuit of a more secure energy future for South Africans.”

Makwana wished the power utility success.

“I am grateful for the opportunity afforded to me by the government of the Republic of South Africa to serve a second term as chairperson of the Board of Directors of Eskom SOC Limited. I wish Eskom and its people success, and thank its committed stewards for their unstinting efforts to revive the utility.

“I thank the Minister for the positive, amicable manner upon which we conclude my tenure,” Makwana said. – SAnews.gov.za 

NeoB
Tue, 10/10/2023 - 09:31

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Western Cape Premier set to open pan-African clean tech pitch event at Green Energy Africa Summit

Location: News
Green Energy Africa Summit

On 11 October 2023, the Premier of the Western Cape, Alan Winde, will provide the opening remarks at Green Energy Africa Summit's (https://GreenEnergyAfricaSummit.com/) high-octane deal pitching platform, the Energy Investment Village.

A selection of ten African clean-tech start-ups will pitch their clean-tech solutions before a panel of judges and a room full of potential international investors on day 2 of the highly anticipated Green Energy Africa Summit. The Premier's presence at the Energy Investment Village signals the growing interest in - and serious consideration of - African clean-tech start-ups as viable clean energy investment assets.

This is the second year that Green Energy Africa Summit (https://apo-opa.info/3PLZHI8) has hosted the Energy Investment Village. The initiative was developed in partnership with Freeport Saldanha's Innovation Campus (https://www.InnovationCampus.co.za/) and advisory firm, the Research Institute for Innovation and Sustainability (RIIS) (https://EnablingInnovation.Africa/) and Anza Capital (https://Anza.holdings/), an early-stage tech start-up investment company. The Energy Investment Village is supported by Africa Scotland Business Network, JSE, Oceanhub-Africa, Savant, Firecracker, CHIETA, and Sasol.

The Green Energy Africa Summit itself provides an important role in enabling international investors to originate projects that will reduce the energy deficit whilst also contributing to developing low-carbon pathways. The Energy Investment Village is the action-based aspect of the Summit, providing a key moment for African clean energy projects and international investors to have direct sight of one another.  

According to a report by the International Energy Agency, African energy investment needs to double to over USD 200 billion per year by 2030, for the continent to meet its energy-related development goals. However, emerging and developing economies (except for China) remain stuck at 2015 levels, with no increase since the Paris Agreement was reached. 

Premier Winde says, “Our energy demands are currently outstripping supply. When ramping up capacity, clean energy solutions must be a priority. This is particularly important for South Africa if we are to reach our goal of net zero emissions by 2050, to which we've committed in our Low-Emission Development Strategy as part of the UNDP Climate Promise, and the Western Cape Government is committed to supporting. Initiatives such as the Green Energy Africa Summit's Energy Investment Village are excellent vehicles to enable clean energy innovation to flourish. As the Western Cape Government, we are investing heavily in making our province energy resilient. This involves striking a balance between driving economic growth while at the same time developing and harnessing renewable energy solutions.”

As well as finding potential investor-start-up linkages and synergies, the competing start-ups can win valuable prizes provided by the Energy Investment Village sponsors. This includes capacity-enhancing programmes such as:

  • Pitch preparation training programme sponsored by CHIETA (for all finalists);
  • JSE's Enterprise Acceleration Programme;
  • Build Acceleration Programme 2024 by Savant;
  • Enterprise Supplier Development Programme by Sasol; and
  • a half day brand workshop valued at R25k by Firecracker Events and Marketing.

Additionally, up to R5 million in VC funding (dependent on terms & conditions and company audit) will be made available by Anza Capital, and corporate membership to an international network worth R9k will be given to the top start-up by Africa Scotland Business Network. A cash prize of R100k from Sasol for a selected start-up.

Energy Investment Village finalists for 2023

  • Therm, pioneers in sustainable heating solutions, utilizing innovative technologies for efficient energy consumption. 
  • AET Africa, providers of renewable energy systems, specialising in solar and wind power generation across the African continent.
  • Ceneco Green Power, developers of environmentally friendly power plants focused on reducing carbon emissions.
  • Energy Cubes, innovators in energy storage, offering scalable and cost-effective solutions for optimising power distribution.
  • Powerstove, providers of clean cooking solutions in the form of efficient and clean-burning stoves for households and communities.
  • Revive Earth, turning organic waste into renewable resources while mitigating environmental impact.  
  • Green Share, providers of a decentralised energy management system, enabling communities to generate, store, and share renewable energy.
  • Think Bikes, providing sustainable urban transportation through the design and manufacture of electric bicycles for eco-conscious commuters.
  • Flx, offering cutting-edge electric vehicles with a focus on performance, affordability, and sustainability.
  • Impact-free Water, providers of sustainable solutions for clean and accessible water in resource-challenged regions.

Find out more about attending Green Energy Africa Summit and take part in the excitement as the Energy Investment Village finalists battle it out for pole position: https://apo-opa.info/3Q6u6Cp

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Green Energy Africa Summit.

Media Contact:
Amie Sparrow
PR Manager
amie.sparrow@hyve.group

About Green Energy Africa Summit:
The Green Energy Africa Summit is a high-level gathering advocating for policy reforms and the harmonisation of Africa's natural resources, to help pave the way for a just energy transition to ensure Africa remains competitive and attractive to global finance. The Green Energy Africa Summit takes place in the heart of Cape Town at the Cape Town International Convention Centre 2 (CTICC2) from 10-11 October 2023.

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ACTOM rolls out R100m investment in plant expansion

Location: News

ACTOM rolls out R100m investment in plant expansion

ACTOM, a major supplier of electrical equipment, services and balance of plant to the renewable energy sector, is rolling out a R100 million investment in plant expansion in Pretoria.

The investment was announced as one of the pledges worth billions of rands that were made at the fifth South African Investment Conference held in Johannesburg in April this year.

This contributed to bringing the total value of investment pledges over a five-year investment mobilisation period to R1.51 trillion, thereby exceeding the initial target of R1.2 trillion set by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

According to the Group Chief Executive Officer, Mervyn Naidoo, ACTOM is a well-positioned South African company that provides energy solutions through its businesses and partners.

He said they offer market-leading technology and advanced products to address the issues facing the electro-mechanical industry, from large-scale infrastructure installations to smaller projects and support services.

“We are a leading stockist and supplier of competitively priced quality electrical equipment through our extensive Southern and Sub-Saharan African distribution network comprising13 branches across the country,” Naidoo said.

“We have earnestly started expanding our plant and this will contribute to growing the economy of Gauteng in particular, and the country in general, by building local capacity in manufacturing in the electro-mechanical equipment,” he said.

He said the company made the R100 million investment with an intention of taking advantage of some of the growing sectors like the renewable energy, and for contributing to creating jobs.

The expansion of the Pretoria plant will result in 30 people being employed.

The company is employing more than 7 000 people in their 34 operating units, 53 production, service and repair facilities and more than 33 distribution outlets throughout Southern Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

Edwin
Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:04

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Western Cape launches innovative Export Certificate Office Scheme (ECOS)

Location: News

Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government
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The Western Cape Department of Agriculture's Veterinary Services recently launched its innovative Export Certificate Office System (ECOS). The launch coincided with the Western Cape's inaugural Veterinary Week, which focused on state veterinary services' role in the agriculture sector. One such role is export facilitation.

Dr Vincent Henwood, Western Cape Department Head of the Veterinary Export Certification Office, explained that ECOS is an online electronic system which seeks to ensure compliance in South Africa's food and animal products industry.

Dr Henwood said, “The platform provides permit templates aligned with importing countries' import permits, streamlining the export process, and ensuring compliance with international standards. ECOS enables tracking of products, including animal-derived ones, back to their source farms, thus ensuring transparency throughout the supply chain.”

Speaking at the launch, the Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer, welcomed ECOS as an innovative platform which focused on improving the Western Cape Government's services to our customers.

Minister Meyer said, “ECOS provides the customer with a 24-hour export facilitation service which reduces the export certificate application process from days to minutes. The Western Cape currently exports 55% of South Africa's primary agricultural products. ECOS will also assist in increasing these exports to at least 60%. Exports contribute to foreign exchange earnings and a 5% increase in exports will lead to approximately 22 000 new jobs in the sector.”

“Due to the location and history of South Africa, we have an extremely diverse set of products, factories, and processes.  We also have a complex food and export legislative system with different authorities (6 religious, state, and authorised signatories). This creates the possibility for synergies between authorities as they are often working on similar products and in the same locations,” continued Minister Meyer. 

“In light of our endemic diseases, our rich diversity of wildlife, and our animal health system we need to have a systems approach to disease (human and animal) risk mitigation and international trade in animal products. Due to the many role-players communication and coordination is key. This is challenging in a resource-constrained environment. ECOS can help to coordinate communication and increase cooperation at food processing establishments between authorities,” added Minister Meyer.

Heidi Fourie from La Montanara (Pty) Ltd, a cheese factory in Ashton, has already been using the ECOS.

Heidi Fourie said,” As a small dairy business we do not have time to struggle to complete the significant paperwork that accompanies an export certificate application. The wait often negatively impacts product shelf life and quality. ECOS has changed this. While uploading my company's profile onto the ECOS platform was initially time-consuming, it now takes approximately five minutes to get an export certificate approved.”

Minister Meyer remarked: “We appreciate the feedback from our clients in the Western Cape, which has been invaluable in refining ECOS. Their feedback and support are crucial as we work together to revolutionize compliance, traceability, and export control in South Africa's food and animal products industry.”

Commenting on the future of ECOS, Minister Meyer said that with the support of the National Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, ECOS should and could be rolled out nationally.

Minister Meyer said, “This will create a comprehensive system that ensures the traceability and compliance of all relevant products on a national scale. It will also greatly enhance the smooth movement of products and reduce the administrative burden and access to veterinary certification to rural producers.”

This year's Veterinary Week ended with a visit to the Department's Veterinary Export Certification Office in Milnerton and the Spar, one of the Veterinary Export Certification Office's biggest clients, Western Cape Distribution Centre in Philippi.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government.

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What is the Best Type of Will

Location: MyPR

There are various types of wills, each suited to different needs and circumstances. Here’s a guide to help you choose:   Simple Wills Ideal for individuals with straightforward estate planning needs. It outlines asset distribution and may appoint guardians for minor children.   Testamentary Trust Wills Suitable for those with young children, this type of …

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Logistics Leader DSV to Operate from Agility Logistics Park – Maputo

Location: News
Agility

DSV, one of the world's largest freight and logistics providers, has chosen the Agility Logistics Park (www.Agility.com) in Mozambique as the location where it will manage storage and distribution for a global beverage customer .

The Agility park is the leading warehouse facility in Mozambique's capital, Maputo.  DSV has leased 12,000 SQM at the facility with the possibility to add an additional 2,000 SQM to help its customer meet seasonal demand for raw materials, bottles, packaging and finished products.

Philipp Buechler, Managing Director, DSV Mozambique, commented  “At DSV, a safe, secure, and efficient distribution center is fundamental to our business model. The Agility warehouses provide the necessary infrastructure to meet exacting international standards and our operational requirements. Agility Logistics Parks also ensures that strict HSSE standards are followed within the park, something that is very important for optimal operations. This partnership is one of the key milestones in our supply chain strategy, which will support our further business growth in Mozambique.”

The Agility Logistics Park is located on the Maputo Ring Road, at Chiango area in Marracuene and is strategically situated for efficient distribution both across the country and into Maputo. The park is within a 25-kilometer radius of the Maputo port and airport, the N4 highway to South Africa, and the capital's Central Business District.

Agility is funding and developing 300,000 SQM of warehouses on the site, a center of excellence for warehousing in the region, to support businesses operating in and from Mozambique. The Agility warehouses provide the essential infrastructure required for both multi-national companies and local businesses that need storage, distribution, packaging, processing and light manufacturing space.

Geoffrey White, CEO Agility Africa, said: “We are delighted that DSV chose to lease warehouse space in the Agility Logistics Park in Maputo.  We believe that the provision of international-standard warehouses for storage, distribution and light manufacturing is one of the fundamental building blocks necessary for economic growth. Demand in Maputo has been strong post the pandemic from both local and international companies, and we are now expanding the warehouse park and investing in further warehousing to support economic growth, jobs and prosperity in Mozambique.”

White added: “Across Africa Agility is funding and developing warehouse parks that provide move-in-ready warehouses, enabling fast deployment, flexibility and reduced capital commitments for our existing and new customers. The provision of secure, ready-built, quality, warehouses with consistent power and IT connectivity in the Maputo market is a true enabler of growth and prosperity in Africa.” 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Agility.

For more information:
Sabrina Mundy
Man Bites Dog
teamagility@manbitesdog.com
+44 1273 716 820

Social media:
Twitter: https://apo-opa.info/3ZBi6M2
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.info/3ZEKPzz
YouTube: https://apo-opa.info/3ZBNSIU

About Agility Logistics Parks:
Agility Logistics Parks is one of the largest private owners and developers of warehousing and light industrial parks in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia. It funds, builds and manages world-class facilities and infrastructure that help companies operate in the world's fastest-growing markets. Agility Logistics Parks' parent, Agility, is a pioneer in emerging markets and a leader and investor in technology to enhance supply chain efficiency. Agility is a publicly traded company with $2.8 billion in annual revenue. For more information about Agility, visit www.Agility.com

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Partnership between Biovac and EUBiologics welcomed

Location: News

Partnership between Biovac and EUBiologics welcomed

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel has welcomed the recently announced partnership between Biovac, a leading South African biopharmaceutical manufacturer and EuBiologics, a global biopharmaceutical company based in South Korea.

The collaboration involves technology transfer of a Meningococcal Meningitis pentavalent conjugate vaccine, a significant stride towards enhancing health equity outcomes globally and bolstering vaccine manufacturing sustainability in Africa.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Biovac and EuBiologics was officially signed in Cape Town, alongside the 24th Annual General Meeting of the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturing Network (DCVMN).

The event, co-hosted by Biovac, gathered global partners, stakeholders and vaccine manufacturers from around the world, emphasizing the global commitment to health equity and vaccine accessibility.

The partnership is a positive development for Biovac, enabling the local production and distribution of a crucial vaccine across Africa, where the demand is most acute.

Meningococcal meningitis, a potentially fatal bacterial infection, poses significant health risks worldwide, with the highest unmet medical need located in the meningitis belt of sub-Saharan Africa.

The vaccine resulting from this collaboration will offer protection against various strains of the disease, including the emerging serotype X.

“We are pleased that Biovac was able to enter into an arrangement with a South Korean-based company for a vaccine that would be suited not only for South Africa but for our continent, particularly at a time when Africa is on a journey to vaccine manufacturing self-sufficiency,” said Minister Patel, expressing his optimism and support for the partnership.

He further emphasised the potential global and local impact of this collaboration, expressing hope for enhanced global public health.

“This is the beginning of the collaboration between the two companies, but I am hopeful that this will lead to an improvement in global public health, capacity building of an African manufacturer, and most importantly the impact on lives in Africa, where the disease burden is highest,” said Patel.

The dtic remains committed to supporting such impactful collaborations, fostering a climate of innovation, health equity and economic growth within South Africa and across the continent. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 09/29/2023 - 12:13

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Retailability Hails Re-Build At Cornubia Logistics Park

Location: MyPR

South African retail group, Retailability has described the reconstruction of its 13 000m² apparel distribution centre at the Cornubia Ridge Logistics Park north of Durban as a “massive collaboration” and a “good news story” for the regional economy. The retail brand which includes Edgars, Legit, Swagga Style and Keedo was just one of the hundreds …

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9th BRICS Parliamentary Forum (PF) Converges to Foster Multilateralism, Cooperation, and Collaboration

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The 9th BRICS Parliamentary Forum (BRICS PF) got off to a remarkable start today as approximately 250 delegates from about 15 countries across different continents converged for discussions that reinforced the BRICS Parliaments' commitment to multilateralism, cooperation, and collaboration.

The BRICS PF is an interparliamentary forum composed of presiding officers of Parliaments from BRICS Member States - the Federative Republic of Brazil, the Russian Federation, the Republic of India, the People's Republic of China, and the Republic of South Africa, whose aim is to deepen collaboration, partnership, and progress.

The 9th BRICS PF is hosted by the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa, in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality in Gauteng Province under the theme: "Harnessing inclusive Multilateralism and Parliamentary Diplomacy to deepen BRICS and Africa Partnership for Accelerated Implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement."

Today's debate centred around the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and its potential impact on BRICS nations – as well as the crucial role that parliaments can play in maximizing its benefits. "This agreement presents BRICS nations with a significant opportunity by granting them improved access to the African market, creating new avenues for trade, and opening up possibilities for expanded investments," said National Assembly Speaker Ms. Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula.

Speaker Mapisa-Nqakula said that by collaborating closely with one another, BRICS nations can utilize their collective influence to promote fairer trade, alleviate trade barriers, and address existing imbalances. "This partnership offers an ideal platform to not only strengthen economic ties with Africa but also stimulate Africa's economic transformation process," she added.

Speaking during his keynote address, Deputy President Mr. Paul Mashatile said the BRICS PF has the potential to effect change on a global and unprecedented scale. "For starters, BRICS has focused the imagination of the world's population beyond the citizens of its member states. In and of itself, this is a good thing. However, we should not be surprised when this success factor attracts negative responses from some actors in the world despite the fact that BRICS is not opposed to any state parties or groups. Instead, we seek a peaceful and just world of equitable resource distribution."

National Council of Provinces Chairperson, Mr. Amos Masondo, said the discussions on the opening day were "characterized by a fruitful exchange of perspectives and expertise. They have enhanced our collective understanding and reinforced our commitment to our common objectives."

Chairperson Masondo said multilateralism is the cornerstone for BRICS. The BRICS countries have shown greater resolve to pursue multilateralism with the aim of creating a fairer, peaceful, and secure world. Consistent with the understanding that multilateralism is key to containing international rivalries, BRICS has expressed its commitment to multilateralism through upholding international law.

Also speaking on the opening day, former National Assembly Speaker Ms. Baleka Mbete reminisced about the formative years of the BRICS PF. Ms. Mbete, who is also a former Deputy President of the Republic, said that by signing the Memorandum of Understanding on the BRICS Parliamentary Forum, "BRICS parliaments are establishing a platform that seeks to streamline and coordinate our parliamentary contributions to the vision of BRICS."

It is all systems go for tomorrow as the delegates to the BRICS PF are expected to sign a ground breaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will define the general cooperative strategy of the legislative organs of the BRICS Member States. The MoU will enable the members of the BRICS PF to coordinate efforts aimed at developing and strengthening the inter-parliamentary relations of BRICS Member States concerning issues of common interest.

The format of tomorrow's session, which starts at 09:30am, will include breakaways into commissions which will discuss four broad themes as follows:

i). BRICS and Africa Partnership – Promotion and Acceleration of Regional Integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA);

ii). BRICS Energy Issues – Just transition of Coal to Hydrogen Energy;

iii). Climate change and Legislative mobilization in BRICS countries; and

iv). BRICS Peace and Security: Can Multilateralism Restore Peace and Security?

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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Top litigation lawyer returns to her roots at Bowmans

Location: MyPR

Leading African law firm Bowmans is further strengthening its dispute resolution capacity in South Africa by appointing senior litigation lawyer Vanessa Jacklin-Levin as a partner in its Johannesburg Litigation Practice. ‘Vanessa is one of the most highly regarded dispute resolution lawyers in South Africa, with a formidable combination of skills, not only in litigation, adjudications …

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Urgent need to address Eskom transmission to deal with load shedding

Location: News

Urgent need to address Eskom transmission to deal with load shedding

Electricity Minister, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has described load shedding as an economic problem that government is urgently addressing, as his department relentlessly tackles generation and transmission challenges. 

“It's a structural constraint to the economy of the country and therefore it's indispensable to the resolution of the economic question in the country,” he said on Thursday. 

The Minister is hosting a Transmission Financing Seminar with the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE).  

The gathering will discuss the financing of South Africa’s Transmission Development Plan, which seeks to expand, support and secure the sustainability of South Africa’s energy mix and electricity supply.

The seminar brings together government, energy industry veterans and potential private sector investors to engage in a critical conversation on South Africa’s energy crisis. 

Ramokgopa touched on the country’s Energy Action Plan (EAP), a comprehensive response by government to address the challenge of power cuts. 

“In 1997, we were told that at the rate at which you are connecting households to the grid and the economy is growing, you're going to run into a generation problem, a capacity problem 10 years later, and we know that we ran into that problem.” 

This is the reason he believes the country needs to speedily attend to transmission with the same vigour it is handling generation capacity. 

“We are saying also now if you don't resolve the issues on the transmission side, having that problem today might not be as pronounced and I want to argue that it will be pronounced in the next six to 12 months. 

“The similar amount of effort and exertion you’re placing on the generation side requires that they be placed also on the transmission side.” 

Eskom's transmission has the mandate to reliably control, maintain, plan, expand and provide access to an interconnected transmission system.

Ramokgopa told the summit that part of the problem that is confronting Eskom is structural constraint primarily presented by two issues – energy deficit and issues of logistics. 

The Minister spoke frankly about the impact of load shedding. 

He highlighted agriculture and manufacturing as sectors that are heavily impacted by severe shortages in power generation capacity.  

“And what this does really borrows from the modelling that has been done by the South African Reserve Bank, which begins to illustrate the kind of injury that is inflicted by load shedding on the South African economy, potentially contracting the economy.”

The Minister has since called for all hands on deck to contribute towards the resolution of this “bleak picture”.  

Ramokgopa, who has visited all power plants to better understand the challenges, said there are communities and businesses that have not had electricity for about six years. 

“This is not an exaggeration. And so as a result of the failure of the distribution infrastructure, I'm talking about transformers and substations, and this comes about as a result of municipalities being financially unviable.”

The Minister said he will introduce regular updates on the transmission side. 

“[This] is after we've gone to Cabinet [to present] the options that are available to us. Once that is adopted, then we will give feedback and then we're doing a significant amount of work on the distribution side (sic).”

These interventions will see the country significantly strengthen and increase South Africa’s electricity supply and capacitate the energy sector in meeting global decarbonisation targets, thereby ensuring South Africa’s long-term energy security and energy sovereignty. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 09/21/2023 - 11:17

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The Power of High-Quality Distribution Boards: A Comprehensive Guide

Location: MyPR

Introduction: In the world of electrical systems and power distribution, the backbone of safety and efficiency lies in the quality and design of distribution boards (DBs). Whether you’re working on residential or industrial projects, the choice of distribution boards can make a significant difference. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the importance of high-quality distribution …

Read moreThe Power of High-Quality Distribution Boards: A Comprehensive Guide

National Transmission Company can now access “down to business” – Gordhan

Location: News

National Transmission Company can now get "down to business" - Gordhan

Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan has welcomed the National Energy Regulator of South Africa’s (NERSA) decision to approve the trading and import/export license applications by the National Transmission Company of South Africa (NTCSA).

The NTCSA is wholly owned by Eskom as the state-owned company is being restructured into the generation, transmission and distribution subsidiaries.

“This is great news for the people of South Africa. We now have in place all the critical elements for creating a more dynamic, a more responsive and a competitive electricity industry.

“The granting of these licences means that the National Transmission Company of South Africa is ready to get down to business and bring a much-needed overhaul of our electricity industry. This is a significant milestone as it also paves the way for the procurement of power from across the region,” Gordhan said.

The department explained that NTCSA applied for trading license in order to be able to to buy and sell electricity from power stations and independent power producers.

“The terms of the NTCSA’s trading licence will be five years as a transitional arrangement to allow for transition from the exclusive trading arrangement and incorporation of changes that may emanate from the ERA amendment and price review processes.

“The licence gives it authorisation to conduct import and export of electricity activities throughout the Southern African Development Community (SADC) using the NTCSA transmission network and the transmission systems of other SADC member countries.

“The NTCSA will operate the transmission system and perform the following key integrated roles to ensure the integrity of the interconnected power system (IPS): Transmission Network Service Provider (TNSP); System Operator (SO); Transmission System Planner (TSP) and Grid Code Secretariat,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 09/19/2023 - 11:14

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Read moreNational Transmission Company can now access “down to business” – Gordhan

South Africa, Germany sign agreement for vaccines production

Location: News

South Africa, Germany sign agreement for vaccines production

The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and Germany's KfW Development Bank have concluded a financing agreement for the production of vaccines.

Under the agreement the German government, through KfW, will provide South Africa with €20 million for vaccine production over a period of five years.

The grant is exclusively for financing equipment for the development, production and certification of active pharmaceutical ingredients for vaccine production in South Africa.

Announcing the signing of the agreement, Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister Dr Blade Nzimande said the grant will be used, among other things, to support the mRNA technology transfer hub that South Africa is hosting for the World Health Organisation (WHO), to build vaccine manufacturing capacity in low and middle-income countries, “although it will go beyond this in providing support”.

“The objective of the technology transfer hub is to establish or enhance sustainable mRNA vaccine manufacturing capacity in regions with no or limited capacity, introduce new technologies in low and middle-income countries, promote regional research and development, strengthen regional bio manufacturing know-how and workforce development, and develop regulatory capabilities to support and accelerate regional approval and distribution of mRNA vaccines,” Nzimande said.

In response to the WHO decision made during the COVID-19 pandemic, Nzimande said the German government indicated its commitment to supporting vaccine production in South Africa.

The agreement, signed on 25 July 2023, makes the DSI the recipient of the KfW financial support on behalf of the South African government, and recognises the DSI and its Director-General, Dr Phil Mjwara, as the custodian and leader of the South African vaccine manufacturing strategy.

The Minister said the German decision to work with the department could be seen as a vote of confidence in its leadership's management of international funds.

"The German investment will build on the strategic investments by DSI and other partners, and KfW has agreed to work in alignment with the South African vaccine manufacturing strategy," Nzimande said, adding that the funding could support catalytic initiatives under this strategy.

The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) will be the project executing agency and will report to the DSI through a steering committee.

SAMRC President and CEO, Professor Glenda Gray said, the Council is delighted to be part of the program, which will provide critical support to establishing a vaccine manufacturing industry in Sub-Saharan Africa. 

“In addition to complementing the activities of the mRNA hub program, this partnership will seek to provide critical support in filing gaps in the pre-clinical research domain,” Professor Gray said.    

KfW will appoint an implementation consultant to support the KfW and to assist the SAMRC. 

The consultant will be responsible for providing sector-specific support for project planning, management, monitoring and evaluation, among others.

Ambassador Andreas Peschke, from the German Embassy in Pretoria, reiterated the important role played by South Africa in strengthening continental vaccine manufacturing capacities, indicating that “the country is at the very forefront of continental efforts for local pharmaceutical and vaccine research and production.”

“[South Africa’s] world-class research institutions and a solid industry meet the prerequisites for independent vaccine research, development, and production,” Peschke said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Fri, 09/15/2023 - 10:49

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Read moreSouth Africa, Germany sign agreement for vaccines production

Energy Investment Village 2023 Finalists Announced

Location: News

Green Energy Africa Summit
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Africa's boldest and most ambitious cleantech start-ups will take part in the Energy Investment Village (https://apo-opa.info/468SsAw), an exciting deal-pitching event at the Green Energy Africa Summit (https://GreenEnergyAfricaSummit.com), to be held in the heart of South Africa's Cape Town on 10-11 October at the CTICC2.

Held under the theme, “Unlocking Africa's Sustainable Energy Potential,” the Green Energy Africa Summit (GEAS) will provide unrivalled opportunities throughout its two-day programme for the continent's leaders in energy, finance, and social development, to meet with international investors, to find sustainable solutions to Africa's energy needs and a just transition to a green economy.

This highly anticipated event advocates for the harmonisation of Africa's natural resources, as well as policy reforms, to help usher in an energy transition that ensures the continent remains competitive and attractive to global finance. With over 1000 delegates from 67 countries, GEAS invites both public and private stakeholders across the energy value chain to collaborate, offer solutions, and build partnerships to help unlock Africa's true socioeconomic potential.

GEAS is thrilled to welcome its strategic industry partners, including The Banking Association of South Africa (https://www.Banking.org.za/) and The African Forum for Utility Regulators (https://AFURnet.org/). This year's agenda features a strong mix of discussions within dedicated content streams, from the Energy Strategy Forum on day one, to the Green Energy and Green Finance Forums on day two. Attendees can look forward to country and regional spotlights on South Africa and West Africa, as well as sessions led by finance and energy heavyweights. Find the full GEAS 2023 agenda here: https://apo-opa.info/3rfJNxm

The Energy Investment Village (EIV) is the GEAS's Lion's Den-style pitching event for cleantech companies, which will be held on 11 October. The finalists will be given an extraordinary opportunity to gain exposure, network with potential clients, and receive vital market validation. Most importantly, they will be given the chance to pitch for funding (https://apo-opa.info/468SsAw) from international investors.

“Africa's traditional, fossil-fuel-based energy cannot keep pace with its swift development. While the continent's abundance of natural resources can enable clean energy innovations, constraints like access to finance impedes the opportunities for local clean-tech innovators. Events such as the EIV open up direct pathways to decision-makers and funders, and are a critical enabler of the clean-tech ecosystem,” says RIIS CEO Davis Cook.

In partnership with Saldanha Bay Innovation Campus (https://www.InnovationCampus.co.za/), RIIS (https://EnablingInnovation.Africa/), and Anza Capital (https://Anza.Holdings/), and supported by Africa Scotland, JSE, Oceanhub-Africa, Savant, Firecracker, CHIETA, and SASOL, the EIV is delighted to introduce the outstanding finalists that have been selected to present their projects, which aim to revolutionise the energy landscape and promote sustainable development in Africa:

  1. Therm Development: Pioneers in sustainable heating solutions, utilising innovative technologies for efficient energy consumption.
  1. AET Africa: Visionaries in renewable energy systems, specialising in solar and wind power generation across the African continent.
  1. Ceneco Green Power Limited: Experts in developing and operating environmentally friendly power plants, focused on reducing carbon emissions.
  1. Energy Cubes: Innovators in energy storage, offering scalable and cost-effective solutions for optimising power distribution.
  1. Powerstove Energy: Trailblazers in clean cooking solutions, providing efficient and clean-burning stoves for households and communities
  1. Revive Earth Limited: Leaders in waste-to-energy conversion, turning organic waste into renewable resources while mitigating environmental impact.
  1. Green Share Virtual Power Plant: Pioneers of a decentralised energy management system, enabling communities to generate, store, and share renewable energy.
  1. Thinkbikes: Innovators in sustainable urban transportation, designing and manufacturing electric bicycles for eco-conscious commuters.
  1. FLX EV: Visionaries in electric mobility, offering cutting-edge electric vehicles with a focus on performance, affordability, and sustainability.
  1. Impact Free Water: Experts in water treatment technologies, providing sustainable solutions for clean and accessible water in resource-challenged regions.

Don't miss out on the chance to engage with these visionary entrepreneurs and experts, as they demonstrate how their projects will address the energy challenges across Africa. From scalable solutions for rural communities, to innovative grid technologies, these finalists promise to inspire, educate, and shape a greener future for the continent.

Organised by Hyve Group Plc., the Green Energy Africa Summit is where the world connects with the African Energy sector. Register to attend here https://GreenEnergyAfricaSummit.com/. Attend the Green Energy Africa Summit to be part of the solution and connect with industry leaders, charting the way towards a sustainable clean energy transition for Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Green Energy Africa Summit.

Media Contact:
Amie Sparrow
PR Manager
amie.sparrow@hyve.group

About Green Energy Africa Summit:
The Green Energy Africa Summit is a high-level gathering advocating for policy reforms and the harmonisation of Africa's natural resources, to help pave the way for a just energy transition to ensure Africa remains competitive and attractive to global finance. Green Energy Africa Summit takes place in the heart of Cape Town at the Cape Town International Convention Centre 2 (CTICC2) from 10-11 October 2023.

Read moreEnergy Investment Village 2023 Finalists Announced

A Guide to Different Pump Types for Various Industries

Location: MyPR

Introduction Pumps are ubiquitous in every industry, whether you’re working in agriculture, food processing, or mining. The right pump can make all the difference in efficiency, productivity, and operational costs. But how do you choose the perfect pump for your specific needs? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of pumps used in …

Read moreA Guide to Different Pump Types for Various Industries