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Motsoaledi to open Pharmacists International Federation Congress

Location: News

Motsoaledi to open Pharmacists International Federation Congress

South Africa is hosting the first-ever International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) Congress in sub-Saharan Africa. 

The four-day congress, which kick-started on Sunday, 1 September 2024, is also part of the Pharmacy Month commemorative activities to raise patient awareness of the vital role pharmacists can play in the community’s healthcare and to improve communication between patients and pharmacists and pharmacy support personnel.

The gathering brings together pharmacists from all over the world to share expertise, network, share knowledge technology innovations and experience.

Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, is expected to deliver a keynote address at the official opening of the congress today. The gathering is being held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. 

The FIP is a non-governmental organisation representing over four million pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists and has been recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) since 1948. 

It partners with some of the world’s leading health, policy-making, education and science institutions.

“During the congress, pharmacists from different backgrounds will have the opportunity to share expertise and knowledge to advance the profession to meet the healthcare needs in the challenging environment of endless disease outbreaks.”

According to the Department of Health, pharmacists play an important role in the healthcare sector as they also  foresee innovation in medicine such as vaccines which are critical in saving people’s lives, especially during outbreaks and pandemics as was the case during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Pharmacists are often the first point of contact for medicines dispensation due to their medication expertise, patient access, and medication management responsibilities.

This year’s Pharmacy Month is commemorated under the theme: ‘Let’s Talk About Vaccines’. 

Meanwhile, the FIP Congress’ theme will focus on innovating for the future of healthcare. 

The theme is based on the conviction that improving vaccination coverage and promoting a life-course approach to vaccination are global imperatives to which pharmacists can greatly contribute.

Pharmacists play an important role in promoting vaccination, raising awareness and educating the population about the health, social and humanistic benefits of vaccines, including gains in quality of life.

Participating stakeholders at the congress include the South African Pharmacy Council, the Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa and the Independent Community Pharmacy Association. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 09/02/2024 - 09:59

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President Ramaphosa to lead SA delegation to China for State Visit

Location: News

President Ramaphosa to lead SA delegation to China for State Visit

President Cyril Ramaphosa will undertake a State Visit to the People’s Republic of China this week where he will also participate at the Forum on China – Africa Cooperation Summit (FOCAC).

The State Visit, which comes at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, and the FOCAC Summit will take place in Beijing from 2 - 5 September 2024.

President Ramaphosa is expected to be flanked by Cabinet Ministers from portfolios including International Relations and Cooperation; Science, Technology and Innovation; Human Settlements; Small Business Development; Presidency; Trade, Industry and Competition; Electricity and Energy; Public Works and Infrastructure; Higher Education and Agriculture.

The delegation will also include the Premier of the Eastern Cape, Oscar Mabuyane and Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba as well as senior government officials. 

President Ramaphosa hosted President Xi Jinping on his fourth State Visit to South Africa in August 2023 in Tshwane, cementing 25 years of strong bonds of friendship and cooperation the two countries have enjoyed since establishing formal diplomatic relations.

“China is South Africa's largest trading partner globally, while South Africa is China’s number one trading partner in Africa. Total bilateral trade grew from R614 billion in 2022 to R692 billion in 2023,” the Presidency said in a statement.

On Monday, President Ramaphosa’s State Visit to China officially commences with a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People.

Ahead of the bilateral engagement, the President will lay a wreath at the Monument to the People’s Heroes in Tiananmen Square in honour of Chinese revolutionaries.

South Africa and China’s bilateral relations are maintained at the level of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), underpinned by a Ten-Year Strategic Programme of Cooperation (2020 – 2029).

“South Africa and China will sign agreements that are aimed at enhancing economic cooperation and the implementation of technical cooperation, particularly in the fields of human settlements, agriculture and science and technology.

“On Tuesday, 3 September 2024, President Ramaphosa will champion South Africa’s economic diplomacy with China by visiting Shenzhen, an economic technology hub in the Guangdong Province to interact with industry leaders and tour the headquarters of two tech companies as part of the bilateral business programme of the State Visit,” the Presidency said.

On Wednesday, President Ramaphosa will address the South Africa - China Business Forum on the margins of the FOCAC in Beijing.

On Thursday, the President will participate in the FOCAC Summit held under the theme “Joining Hands to Advance Modernisation and Build a High-Level China-Africa Community with a Shared Future”.

“The President will co- chair, with the Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Mr Wang Huning, the High-Level Panel Seminar on Accompanying Africa in Industrialisation, Agricultural Modernisation and Green Development to Embark on the path to Modernisation,” the Presidency said.

South Africa’s participation in FOCAC is driven by a constant advancement of Africa’s position on development as outlined by the African Union’s Agenda 2063: The Africa we Want and its related Flagship Programmes.

A Declaration and Action Plan (2025-2027) will be issued at the conclusion of the 2024 FOCAC Summit. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Sun, 09/01/2024 - 09:22

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President Ramaphosa Leads South Africa Delegation to China for State Visit and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa will at the invitation of His Excellency President Xi Jinping undertake a State Visit to the People's Republic of China and participate at the Forum on China – Africa Cooperation Summit (FOCAC).

The State Visit and FOCAC Summit will take place in Beijing from 2 - 5 September 2024.

President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted President Xi Jinping on his fourth State Visit to South Africa in August 2023 in the City of Tshwane, cementing twenty five years of strong bonds of friendship and cooperation the two countries enjoy since establishing formal diplomatic relations.

China is South Africa's largest trading partner globally, while South Africa is China's number one trading partner in Africa. Total bilateral trade grew from R614 billion in 2022 to R692 billion in 2023.

On Monday, 2 September 2024, President Ramaphosa's State Visit to China officially commences with a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People. Ahead of the bilateral engagement, President Ramaphosa will lay a wreath at the Monument to the Peoples Heroes in Tiananmen Square in honour of Chinese revolutionaries.

South Africa and China's  bilateral relations are maintained at the level of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) level, underpinned by a Ten-Year Strategic Programme of Cooperation (2020 – 2029).

South Africa and China will sign agreements that are aimed at enhancing economic cooperation and the implementation of technical cooperation, particularly in the fields of  human settlements, agriculture and science and technology.  

On Tuesday, 3 September 2024, President Ramaphosa will champion South Africa's economic diplomacy with China by visiting Shenzhen, an economic technology hub in the Guangdong Province to interact with industry leaders and tour the headquarters of two tech companies as part of the bilateral business programme of the State Visit. 

The President will address the South Africa - China Business Forum on Wednesday, 4 September 2024, on the margins of the FOCAC in Beijing.

On Thursday, 5, September 2024, President Ramaphosa, will participate  in the FOCAC Summit held under the theme “Joining Hands to Advance Modernisation and Build a High-Level China-Africa Community with a Shared Future”. 

The President will co- chair, with the Chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Mr Wang Huning , the High Level Panel Seminar on “Accompanying Africa in Industrialization, Agricultural Modernization and Green Development to Embark on the path to Modernization”.

South Africa ‘s participation in FOCAC is driven by a constant advancement of Africa's position on development as outlined by the African Union's Agenda 2063: The Africa we Want and its related Flagship Programmes. 

A Declaration and Action Plan (2025-2027) will be issued as the outcome documents of the 2024 FOCAC Summit. 

The Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation, Science, Technology and Innovation; Human Settlements; Small Business Development; Presidency; Trade Industry and Competition; Electricity and Energy ; Public Works and Infrastructure; Higher Education ; Agriculture are accompanying the President to the China State Visit and FOCAC along Premiers of the Eastern Cape and Limpopo province as well as senior government officials.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read morePresident Ramaphosa Leads South Africa Delegation to China for State Visit and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit

Zero2five Trust Reaches Out to ECD Practitioners in Rural and Township Economies This Women’s Month

Location: MyPR

Women in the rural and township economies are more vulnerable to poverty and unemployment, according to Julika Falconer, CEO of Durban-based Zero2Five Trust which focusses on ECD (Early Childhood Development). Working within these communities, she says poverty is a daily reality and impacts on the fact that many children do not receive the education needed …

Read moreZero2five Trust Reaches Out to ECD Practitioners in Rural and Township Economies This Women’s Month

Navigating the Ivory Tower: Challenges and Triumphs of Women in Leadership in South Africa

Location: MyPR

By Thula Mngoma (Academic – Regent Business School) In South Africa, women aspiring to leadership roles encounter a landscape shaped by historical inequalities and persistent socio-economic challenges. Regent Business School Academic, Thula Mngoma, examines the specific hurdles faced by women, particularly black women, as they strive for leadership positions. She highlights the strategies that have …

Read moreNavigating the Ivory Tower: Challenges and Triumphs of Women in Leadership in South Africa

Chilli Chocolate Chefs: A Culinary Journey of Passion and Perseverance

Location: MyPR

In the heart of Durban, amidst the bustling streets and vibrant culture, lies the culinary haven of Chilli Chocolate Chefs (CCC). The brainchild of sisters Zainab and Faatimah Paruk, CCC is not just a catering company; it is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and unwavering determination. This is their story, a journey …

Read moreChilli Chocolate Chefs: A Culinary Journey of Passion and Perseverance

SAPS celebrates its Deputy Minister

Location: News

SAPS celebrates its Deputy Minister

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has embarked on a series of profiles to celebrate women in policing and in particular female leaders within its ranks who are playing key leadership roles within the organisation to ensure a safer and secure country for all.

As Women’s Month draws to a close, SAPS celebrates the recently appointed Deputy Minister of Police and Member of Parliament, Polly Boshielo. 

Boshielo took up her new role in the Police Ministry in June 2024, following the establishment of South Africa’s seventh democratic administration under the Government of National Unity (GNU).

Section 93(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa stipulates that Deputy Ministers appointed in terms of subsection (1) (b) are accountable to Parliament for the exercise of their powers and the performance of their functions.

As a Deputy Minister in the Police Ministry, Boshielo's role, alongside Deputy Minister Cassel Mathale, is to support the Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu in the execution of his duties.

This is a task Boshielo does not take lightly and says she is “rolling up her sleeves” in the fight against crime.
Boshielo hails from Seshego, a township in Polokwane in the Limpopo province. 

Growing up, Boshielo always knew she was destined for a life in the political realm and matriculated at Mmakgabo High school in 1989. 

Her political leadership acumen led her to become a respected South African politician and a leader who served the country in various leadership positions, both in public and private sector, said the SAPS.

This year, the country observes Women’s Month under the theme: “Celebrating 30 Year of Democracy Towards Women’s Development”. 

Boshielo is a sterling example of a woman in leadership that believes in continuous self-development and obtained the following academic achievements:
• Master’s in Philosophy (MPhil) in Transport Studies (2018), University of Cape Town
• Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) (2007), Turfloop Graduate School of Leadership, University of Limpopo
• Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) specialisation in Management (2004), University of South Africa
• Diploma in Road Transport (Passenger)(2000), then Rand Afrikaanse Universiteit

Boshielo is currently enrolled and studying towards a Doctorate’s degree in Administration through the University of Limpopo.

Over the years, Boshielo also completed a number of additional qualifications which include a Diploma in Office Administration, a Certificate in Personal and Team Effectiveness and a Certificate in Strategic Planning and Change Management.

The Deputy Minister went on to complete various other post graduate programmes among others, Executive Leadership Programme Certificate with the University of Cape Town (UCT), Senior Management Programme with the University of Pretoria (UP) as well as obtaining a Project and Programme Management certificate with the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits).

Boshielo said her political career started as an Administrator in the Office of the Secretariat in the African National Congress (ANC), Northern Province, before her appointment as the Head of the MEC’s Office of Dr Aaron Motsoaledi from 1994 until 2007.

She also served as General Manager in the Department of Roads and Transport responsible for public, freight and air transport.

Her leadership qualities and capabilities were recognised following her deployment to the National Assembly where she was sworn in as a Member of Parliament on 21 May 2014 and served until 5 June 2015. 

She was assigned to serve at the Auditor-General for Transport, Status of Women and Public Enterprises committees.

Boshielo was also appointed as the Speaker of the Limpopo Provincial Legislature from October 2015 to May 2019. 

Following the inauguration of the provincial government in 2019, she was then appointed an MEC for Education from May 2019 until June 2022 and then re-deployed to the Transport, Safety and Liaison portfolio as MEC until October 2022.

Boshielo was then deployed back to the Limpopo Provincial Legislature where she was appointed Chairperson for Quality of Life and Status of Women, Youth and Disability portfolio from October 2022 until May 2024.

Prior to her political appointments, the Deputy Minister served in various senior positions in both public and private institutions.

“As the Police Ministry our goal is this - to ensure South Africans and visitors to our country are safe and feel safe. Professionalism is key in ensuring services of a high standard are rendered to the communities our members of the South African Police Service serve,” Boshielo said. 

The Deputy Minister promised to plough her wealth of knowledge and experience into her new portfolio towards a safer environment for all. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Edwin
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 11:52

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Universities Need to Apply More Scrutiny When Appointing Vice Chancellors and Council Members

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training has called upon universities to apply greater scrutiny when appointing vice chancellors and council members and should ensure that appointees have a high regard for ethics. The committee was briefed today on progress made by the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) and Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) in dealing with various administrative challenges.

The briefing concerning the state of affairs at Vaal University of Technology now that it is no longer under administration, while the Mangosuthu University of Technology is still under administration. The committee welcomed the progress made by VUT in appointing a vice chancellor and chancellor, however, it remains concerned about the continued high number of vacant positions at senior management level, especially the post of registrar.

The committee expressed concerns about the state of affairs in student residences, which has forced many students to opt for private accommodation. This is causing the university to lose out on much-needed revenue. The committee further called upon VUT to report contractors who do not finish infrastructure development projects to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) so that these contractors are blacklisted from any further involvement in projects in the post-school education sector. The committee further resolved that the university should consider using the services of the Independent Electoral Commission for their Student Representative Council elections and that these elections should be held manually.

Meanwhile at the Mangosuthu University of Technology, the committee welcomed the appointment of Professor Nokuthula Sibiya as the first female vice chancellor in the university's 45-year history. The committee further welcomed assurances that the remaining senior posts at MUT will be filled by the end of September.

The DHET told the committee that recent suspensions at MUT indicate a culture of victimisation, however the administrator seems to be on course in turning the institution around.

The committee chairperson, Mr Tebogo Letsie, said: “We need to move away from a period of independent assessors and it can't be that predominantly black-run institutions are the ones that always fall under administration.”

Mr Letsie said the committee plans to have a meeting with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, with a focus on student accommodation challenges to find solutions to improve the services offered to students.

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

Read moreUniversities Need to Apply More Scrutiny When Appointing Vice Chancellors and Council Members

Committee on Youth and Persons With Disabilities Engages With the NYDA On Its Annual Performance Plan

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Portfolio Committee on Women Youth and Persons With Disabilities received a briefing today from the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) on its annual performance plan (APP) and budget for the 2024/25 financial year.

The committee heard that for the 2024/25 financial year, the budget allocation for the Department for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities is R791.3 million. The budget includes a significant portion earmarked for youth development programmes, although it reflects a decrease from the previous year's budget. The APP outlines specific targets, including support of youth-owned enterprises, job creation and the facilitation of skills development programmes.

The committee praised the comprehensive presentation provided by the NYDA and commended their ongoing efforts to address the challenges facing South Africa's young people.

Throughout the discussions during the meeting, several important themes emerged. Firstly, there was consensus among committee members about the urgent need to address the high levels of youth unemployment. Many members highlighted the importance of aligning education systems with the demands of the job market. The committee believes entrepreneurial skills should be integrated into the school curriculum to better prepare young people for future employment opportunities.

The committee had concerns about the accessibility of NYDA services, particularly in rural areas. Committee members said it is crucial for the agency to enhance outreach efforts to ensure that young people, especially those from marginalised communities, have access to vital information and resources that the NYDA has to offer. Members suggested exploring partnerships with local organisations and using mobile units to reach young people who may face transportation barriers.

Regarding the NYDA's budget, members of the committee noted discrepancies between the agency's reported allocations and the figures obtained from the National Treasury. This discrepancy warrants closer scrutiny to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of resources. Furthermore, the committee recognised the significant reduction in funding for various programmes and indicated that it is eager to understand how the NYDA plans to sustain its initiatives under these financial constraints.

The committee noted in the presentation that the upcoming financial year marks the last for additional funding of R250 million for the National Youth Service programme, which raises questions about the long-term sustainability of such initiatives.

The committee also inquired about the effectiveness of the NYDA's programmes, specifically regarding the distinction between job opportunities created and actual long-term employment. The committee indicated that it is keen to understand the sectors that have benefited most from these opportunities and the sustainability of the jobs created.

Additionally, the issue of inclusivity for persons with disabilities within the NYDA's programmes was highlighted. While the NYDA has made strides in developing a disability strategy, the committee encourages further efforts to ensure that programmes cater to the diverse needs of all young people, including those with disabilities.

Finally, the committee expressed a desire for more detailed reporting on the performance of board members and the mechanisms in place for evaluating their contributions. It is essential that we hold ourselves accountable and ensure that our leadership remains effective in driving the NYDA's mission forward.

The committee's Chairperson, Ms Lindelwa Dunjwa, said: “The committee is committed to supporting the NYDA in its mandate to empower young people across South Africa. We look forward to continued engagements that will enhance our collective efforts to address youth unemployment and promote socio-economic development,” she said.

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

Read moreCommittee on Youth and Persons With Disabilities Engages With the NYDA On Its Annual Performance Plan

Nzimande calls for urgent need to transform South Africa’s science landscape

Location: News

Nzimande calls for urgent need to transform South Africa's science landscape

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, has called on the National Advisory Council on Innovation (NACI) to convene a summit to discuss transformation within South Africa’s national system of innovation (NSI).

Speaking in Pretoria at the launch of the 2024 Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Indicators Report, Nzimande said that the summit should bring together stakeholders to address the remaining barriers to achieving a fully transformed innovation system.

Despite the report highlighting increases in the numbers of women and Black academic staff at higher education institutions in South Africa, the Minister said there is still much room for improvement. 

“We must recognise the ongoing challenges in transforming our STI landscape. We need to ensure that our NSI truly reflects the demographics of our nation, particularly in terms of race, class and gender,” he added. 

According to the report, university enrolments in South Africa increased by 12% between 2012 and 2021, with a 41% rise in the number of graduates.

Black African academic staff representation rose to 43%, marking substantial progress in gender and racial equity. 

Meanwhile, scientific publications increased from 3 693 in 2000 to 27 208 in 2022, securing a global share of one percent.

Diversity among authors has also improved significantly, with the percentage of women authors rising from 32% in 2005 to 45% in 2022, and contributions from black academics growing from under 15% to over 52%. 

The Minister said the ongoing transformation of the NSI is about ensuring that the benefit of innovation is shared equitably across society. 

This includes enhancing access to science and technology education for young people from working-class and poor backgrounds to ensure they can become future scientists and innovators. 

However, he said the positive increases in university enrolments and graduates, coupled with the growing representation of women and Black African academic staff, were testament to government’s commitment to building a more equitable and inclusive scientific community.

The National Research Foundation, which celebrated its 25th anniversary last week, said that, among 4 212 rated researchers in South Africa, Black South Africans account for 38%. 

Nzimande believes this was testimony to the commitment to transform the country’s research landscape. 

The STI report, titled ‘Measuring science, technology and innovation to guide their contribution to socio-economic development’, highlights South Africa’s advancements and the challenges that remain. 

Commissioned by NACI, the report provides data and insights that inform policy decisions by government, helping to shape strategies aimed at improving the country’s STI landscape. 

The report reveals that South Africa invested R2.4 billion in national research infrastructure and R1.2 billion in the National Equipment Programme, strengthening research capabilities across the country. 

The nation’s e-Government Development Index improved from 0.49 in 2012 to 0.74 in 2022, with its global ranking jumping from 101 to 65 out of 193 countries, reflecting significant progress in digital inclusion. 

Manufacturing exports increased by 11.7% between 2021 and 2022, with medium and high technology (MHT) exports showing strong growth. 

The sector saw a notable rise in patent filings and publications in emerging technologies, including digitalisation and nanotechnology, indicating a robust commitment to innovation.

The report identified ongoing challenges, including low research and development (R&D) intensity, declining international patent applications, and reduced venture capital investment. 

South Africa’s patenting activity has declined significantly over the past few years. 

Domestic patents granted decreased from 694 in 2019 to 513 in 2022, while patent applications abroad dropped from 1 457 in 2020 to 968 in 2022. 

Additionally, patents granted by the European Patent Office decreased from 80 in 2020 to 38 in 2022. 

However, there was a slight increase in patents granted by the US Patent and Trademark Office, from 125 in 2021 to 150 in 2022. 

“As we move forward, it is imperative that we make targeted and sustainable policy, institutional, and resource interventions to address the challenges identified in the 2024 STI Indicators Report. Our goal is to place science, technology, and innovation at the core of South Africa's national development agenda, the Minister. 

CEO of NACI, Dr Mlungisi Cele, underscored the importance of addressing these challenges with a comprehensive strategy. – SAnews.gov.za
 
 

Gabisile
Wed, 08/28/2024 - 15:23

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AEW 2024 to Place Leadership at the Forefront of Africa’s Just Energy Future

Location: News
African Energy Chamber

As the global energy landscape shifts towards sustainability, Africa faces the unique challenge of balancing energy access, economic development and environmental stewardship. At African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy 2024, the Just Energy Leader Dialogue – sponsored by bp South Africa – will gather industry figures to explore how Africa's leaders can balance competing priorities and harness technology, policies and best practices to overcome energy access challenges.

The dialogue brings together key voices, including CEO of bp South Africa Taelo Mojapelo; Chief Investment Officer at the African Development Bank (AfDB) Wole Lawuyi; and Vice President and Country Manager, Senegal at Kosmos Energy, Khady Ndiaye. Moderated by Vice President at S&P Global, Michael Wynne, the session will explore how African leaders are navigating the complex intersection of social justice, economic growth and environmental sustainability in energy policymaking.

AEW: Invest in African Energy is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

African countries are leading the charge toward a just energy transition through a mix of enabling policy and investment promotion activities. Under its Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), South Africa has rolled out its Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) outlining the country's strategy for energy diversification. The IRP provides for the accelerated adoption of renewable energy, while recognizing the continued role of coal and gas in national energy security. The DMRE has consistently advocated for a balanced energy approach, ensuring that the transition does not come at the expense of jobs and economic stability.

In Nigeria, the Federal Government has announced $585 billion in energy sector investment opportunities, aligning with the Nigerian Energy Transition plan, which focuses on increasing renewable energy, reducing methane emissions and achieving net-zero goals. Investments include $272 billion toward renewable power and infrastructure, $96 billion toward optimizing oil and gas processes, energy efficiency and carbon capture, $80 billion toward zero-emissions technologies and $2.8 billion toward clean cooking solutions. Nigeria will also host the $5-billion African Energy Bank, established by the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) and African Export-Import Bank and set to accelerate access to capital for oil and gas projects across the continent. The initiative affirms Nigeria's leadership and commitment to ensuring energy security in Africa, as well as improving energy project financing.

Last month, APPO held discussions to help identify transition strategies, focusing on reducing gas flaring, enhancing local content and promoting research and development. Thought leaders like NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber and Chief Academic Officer of Maarifa Education Olubayi Olubayi, united to explore pathways to more sustainable energy practices across the continent.

In West Africa, Senegal is also prioritizing the simultaneous development of fossil fuel and renewable resources, striking a balance among other, single resource-centric economies.  The country is set to begin gas production from the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project later this year, creating opportunities in gas processing, gas-to-power and infrastructure and establishing itself as a key regional energy hub. In 2024, Senegal expanded its focus on renewable energy by launching new initiatives aimed at integrating renewables into its energy mix and aligning with its Just Energy Transition Partnership with France, Germany, the EU, the UK and Canada. High-level international cooperation supports Senegal's goal of universal energy access through a low-carbon energy mix and has established the country as a regional pioneer.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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African Energy Chamber
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Eastern Cape government to embark on veldfire damage tour

Location: News

Eastern Cape government to embark on veldfire damage tour

The Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) will next month embark on an across-province tour to engage with farmer associations affected by the ongoing widespread and uncontrolled wildfires.

The fires are destroying pastures, livestock, agricultural infrastructure and livelihoods in the province.

Addressing the media on Tuesday, Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe said the tour would be held to gain an understanding of farmers’ challenges and discuss the department’s strategies.

“We want to better understand their challenges and discuss the strategies we have in place to support them,” she said, adding that the DRDAR would also collaborate with the Departments of Education, Social Development and Health, and other relevant bodies to address food insecurity.

She said currently, 414 000 households in the province face food insecurity due to high food prices, unemployment and underutilised land.

“Past efforts have been fragmented and ineffective. That is why the Office of the Premier is leading a coordinated Provincial Food and Nutrition Security Plan with various departments,” said the MEC.

While the department plans to launch this initiative on World Food Day, on 16 October, the ongoing veldfires pose a significant challenge and are becoming an obstacle to the DRDAR’s efforts.

The latest information indicates the following damage:

  • In Mhlontlo, over 593 hectares of grazing land was destroyed, with 171 sheep and 29 goats lost.
  • In King Sabata Dalindyebo, 900 hectares of grazing land has been burned, resulting in the death of 13 animals.
  • In Amahlathi, over 550 hectares have been destroyed; 1 cow, 1 calf, and 2 goats perished.
  • In Emalahleni, 300 hectares was burned, along with significant property damage, including 235 bales of lucerne.
  • In Intsika Yethu, 58 sheep have been lost to the fires.
  • In Elundini, 4 833 hectares of grazing land was burned, with 8 cattle lost and 26 hectares of maize destroyed.

The MEC said the situation highlights the urgent need for collective action to prevent and control these devastating veldfires.

“We therefore urge all stakeholders to work together to mitigate the impact of these fires and support affected communities,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 08/28/2024 - 12:39

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Deepening government, business partnership critical for SA

Location: News

Deepening government, business partnership critical for SA

President Cyril Ramaphosa says although the partnership between business and government has yielded results in sectors such as energy and logistics, much more can be done collaboratively to address two of South Africa’s most pressing challenges – unemployment and economic growth.

The President was delivering the keynote address during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA).

“With our far-reaching reforms gaining momentum, the second phase of our partnership with business requires a firm focus on employment creation. This is where we need to strengthen the partnership.

“Business continues to support programmes like the Youth Employment Service and the SA Youth National Pathway Management Network. These initiatives connect young unemployed South Africans with opportunities for work experience, jobs and skills. But there is much more we need to do,” he said.

President Ramaphosa highlighted that government and business are in agreement about various areas where work can be done to stimulate economic growth and employment.

“We must accelerate the work to overhaul the visa regime to attract critical skills, investment and tourism. We need to make use of the opportunities we have identified in tourism, business process outsourcing and the digital economy.

“We agree on the urgency of equipping the workforce with digital skills to take advantage of the new world of work. We agree on the need to use private sector capital to fund the growth of small businesses, particularly in under-serviced areas like townships and rural areas.

“As the Government of National Unity, we seek to deepen this partnership [with business] so that we can together build a conducive environment for investment, growth and job creation,” he said.

A government at work

President Ramaphosa told the BUSA AGM that for its part, the seventh administration is already at work to make good on its commitment to growing the economy.

“As we outlined in the Opening of Parliament Address, the apex priority of this administration is to drive inclusive growth. This is essential if we are to create employment.

“We are therefore focused on sectors with high potential for growth and employment, such as technology, manufacturing, agriculture and renewable energy. 

"We are committed to ensuring that economic growth benefits all South Africans, especially the marginalised and underserved communities. This means supporting SMMEs [small, medium and micro enterprises] and ensuring equitable access to opportunities.

“Growing our exports is a priority. We are committed to working with business and other social partners to improve the global competitiveness of local industries. We are working to streamline export processes to address tariff and non-tariff barriers, and to provide financial and technical assistance to exporters,” the President said.

Furthermore, government will continue on its reform path and with providing opportunities for education and skills development.

“We will continue on the path of structural and regulatory reform to improve the business operating environment. We are committed to a stable policy environment that stimulates investment.

“A skilled workforce is the backbone of a thriving economy. As government, we will continue to invest in education and vocational training to equip young people with the skills needed in a rapidly changing economy,” the President said.

Partnerships

President Ramaphosa maintained that government remains committed to its partnership with BUSA to “drive economic growth that improves the quality of life of all South Africans”.

He added, however, that it is pivotal to maintain active and continuous engagement to sustain the partnership.

“We must accept that there will, from time to time, be areas on which we may disagree. We should not let this deter us from the work we need to do. 

“Rather we should remain engaged in dialogue with a view to finding solutions that serve the interests of the country. Clear communication is crucial for building trust and ensuring that policies are informed by the realities on the ground.

“We must continue to work together. We must leverage our collective resources, expertise and passion for our country’s future. Let us seize this moment to build a more inclusive, prosperous South Africa. Let us build a South Africa where every citizen has the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from our economic progress,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 08/28/2024 - 13:58

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Chikunga reacts to brutal killing of two Limpopo women

Location: News

Chikunga reacts to brutal killing of two Limpopo women

Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has commended law enforcement agencies for their speedy arrest of the farm owners, who allegedly killed two Limpopo women.

The owners of Onverwacht farm, near Sebayeng, outside Polokwane, have appeared in court on charges of attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and defeating the ends of justice.

“The ferocious murder of the two women confirms that South Africa is struggling to overcome the burden of race, class, and gender-based inequality inherited during the periods of colonialism and apartheid.

“Women in rural, remote and severely underprivileged areas remain one of the most vulnerable groups to violence in their communities and their homes,” Chikunga said.

Chikunga said violence against women has reached alarming proportions in South Africa and it affects all women in this country.

The Minister emphasised the need to give attention to the extent of the vulnerability of rural women and women living on farmlands to have access to the justice system.

She said unequal access to education, segregated communities and massive economic disparities persists particularly among rural women and women on farms who are the most marginalised groups of women in South Africa.

“Approximately 55.5% (30.3 million people) of the population is living in the national upper poverty line while a total of 13.8 million people (25%) is experiencing food poverty.

“Action has never been more urgent to reduce inequality in society, the department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities is leading the socio-economic empowerment of women youth and persons with disabilities, by ensuring that gender-responsive planning and budgeting becomes a norm for the whole country as it works towards ensuring equality,” Chikunga said.

The accused remained in custody and the case was postponed to 30 August 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 08/28/2024 - 11:15

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Govt pulling resources together to curb extortion crimes, says Mashatile

Location: News

Govt pulling resources together to curb extortion crimes, says Mashatile

Through the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security  (JCPS) Cluster, government is consolidating resources to end extortion and ensure that communities conduct business without fear or intimidation.

“We are also aware of the persistent issues of high levels of extortion crimes, particularly in Mthatha, Eastern Cape,” said Deputy President Paul Mashatile. 

The Eastern Cape town of Mthatha is battling extortion crime by syndicates, which have led to at least one school and several businesses shutting down, according to reports. 

Mashatile, in his capacity as Leader of Government Business in Parliament, was delivering a keynote address during the first Three-Sphere Planning session of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) of the seventh Parliament in Cape Town.

He told the Members of the NCOP that the Government of National Unity (GNU), has adopted three priorities, including inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.

“We have adopted the above three priorities because whilst we have made significant progress over the 30 years in reducing poverty and inequality, we remain faced with the challenges of a slow-growing economy, high unemployment and poverty rate, high incidence of crime, corruption and lawlessness, and a highly fractured society.” 

Mashatile said the seventh administration has decided to invest in the building of a capable, developmental State. 

“A developmental State, in our context, is a State that will redirect resources towards job creation and ensure that people have access to asset ownership, economic opportunity, education, healthcare, and other basic services.” 

More importantly, in a quest for a developmental State, the Deputy President mentioned that government will continue to invest in building safer communities. 

“Building safer communities is not only a police responsibility, but it is a shared responsibility between the police, communities and all sectors of our society.”

He has since urged citizens to hold hands with law enforcement agencies to combat crime in communities. 

The planning session is being held under the theme: ‘Establishing an Oversight Agenda for the Seventh Parliament: Defining Key Oversight Priorities for the NCOP in the Seventh Parliament’.

Parliament‘s strategic innovation emphasises joint and integrated planning, encouraging collaborative work in programme planning and implementation across government.

The session is aimed at ensuring that the NCOP institutionalises and implements a comprehensive Three-Sphere Planning oversight framework and mechanism, in line with the constitutional mandate of promoting the principles of cooperative governance coordination.  

Government believes this will enhance the effective implementation of key transformation priorities, in line with National Development Plan Vision 2030. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 14:53

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Scaling up Financing Is Key to Accelerating Africa’s Structural Transformation

Location: News
African Development Bank Group (AfDB)

By Adamon Mukasa and Anthony Simpasa, African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org).

Document 1: http://apo-opa.co/4g3EVzM
Document 2: http://apo-opa.co/473xTHm
Document 3: http://apo-opa.co/4gcshPk
Document 4: http://apo-opa.co/4gcsi5Q
Document 5: http://apo-opa.co/471DE8y
Document 6: http://apo-opa.co/4gcskL0
Document 7: http://apo-opa.co/47361TE
Document 8: http://apo-opa.co/4dXk53t

The calls for structural economic transformation in Africa date back to the 1960s when newly independent nations aimed to eliminate poverty through economic diversification, sustained growth, and job creation. This agenda persists today, as Africa continues to face significant developmental challenges.

Pursuing post-independence economic agendas was particularly important because, behind the euphoria (http://apo-opa.co/4dZMCVX) of independence, laid significant developmental challenges in several African countries: unskilled labor force, political and institutional fragilities, poor health conditions, rapid population growth, wide income disparities, and the legacy of colonialism and exclusion from the modern world. The establishment of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) (http://apo-opa.co/4g3EVzM) in 1963 and the African Development Bank (http://apo-opa.co/473xTHm) a year later aimed to tackle these other challenges in a more coordinated and impactful manner. The African Union (http://apo-opa.co/475z3Sz), successor of the OAU, developed Agenda 2063 (http://apo-opa.co/4g3EQMu) in 2013 as a blueprint for turning Africa into the global growth pole and powerhouse of the future.

Africa's Economic Development Paradox

More than sixty years after independence (http://apo-opa.co/3AzLutK), Africa's structural transformation – the shift of workers from lower to higher productivity employment and intra-sectoral productivity growth (http://apo-opa.co/4dQj0KK) – has not progressed as quickly as hoped. Both policymakers and analysts within and outside the continent are genuinely concerned that achieving structural transformation could remain a mirage for many African countries in the absence of bold structural reforms and financing to support implementation of these policies. Why being so pessimistic? Because historical facts tend to support their pessimism. The African Economic Outlook (AEO) 2024 (http://apo-opa.co/4g2RATW) report, released in May by the African Development Bank, reveals that Africa's transformation has been slow and uneven. In countries showing signs of transformation, the process has been characterized by low industrialization and predominantly by employment in low-skill, low-productivity services. The agriculture sector, employing 42% of Africa's workforce, is 60% less productive than the economy-wide average. Consequently, many workers remain trapped in low-productivity, low-wage jobs, unable to escape poverty.

As a result, Africa was the only region of the world where the average real GDP per capita contracted in the 1980s and 1990s, the so-called lost decades (http://apo-opa.co/4fYqm0D).

Africa is off-track in achieving almost all SDG targets by 2030, consistently showing the lowest SDG performance globally since the 2000s (Figure 1). Without intervention, it is predicted that by 2030, nearly 9 out of 10 of the world's extremely poor will be in Africa (http://apo-opa.co/4e2weEn) and under current conditions[1], it could take African countries over a century on average to reach high-income status.

[1] This scenario assumes that real GDP per capita of each African country will grow according to its post-COVID-19 (2022–25) average growth rate as computed by the African Development Bank's Statistics Department.

But Africa is a very large, diverse, heterogeneous, region. Some countries have, over the past four decades preceding the COVID-19 pandemic, experienced episodes of growth accelerations, growth spikes and failed take-offs (http://apo-opa.co/4gcshPk). Cases of consistent good performance include Botswana, Seychelles, and Mauritius, routinely ranked among the top 10 fastest-growing economies globally. African countries have indeed exhibited remarkable resilience amid confounding shocks, and in 2024, 10 countries[1] in Africa are projected to be among the world's top 20 fastest-growing economies, sustaining the trend observed during the past four decades pre-COVID-19.

Importantly, over the past quarter century, thanks to strong economic reforms and macroeconomic stability, enhanced governance, relative peace and improved political environment and, public investments in soft and hard infrastructure, some African countries[2] have managed to transform their economies and recorded economic growth rates above the global average.

The role of finance in fast-tracking Africa's structural transformation

Many factors, both internal and external, could explain the relatively slow progress in structurally transforming African economies. Among them: over-reliance on commodity-led growth (http://apo-opa.co/4fZJTxI), inadequate infrastructure (http://apo-opa.co/4dV5DZE); insufficient pool of skilled workers (http://apo-opa.co/4g49x4g) and low access to affordable finance (http://apo-opa.co/47361D8); weak institutional governance (http://apo-opa.co/4e0O5LG), recurrent conflicts (http://apo-opa.co/4g49rtq), effects of climate change (http://apo-opa.co/3ABuuTU), tightening of global financial conditions (http://apo-opa.co/4fZSFvC) and rising debt vulnerabilities (http://apo-opa.co/4724oWk).

While all these factors are equally important and call for urgent actions from policymakers, financing Africa's transformation (http://apo-opa.co/4fTo1Uy) is a multi-layered overarching challenge that demands special attention and a pragmatic approach to move from billions to trillions. The cost of achieving the SDGs by 2030 in Africa is estimated at about $1.3 trillion (http://apo-opa.co/4gcsi5Q) annually, equivalent to 42% of Africa's 2023 GDP. Infrastructure needs alone are estimated by the African Development Bank at $181-$221 billion per year over 2023-2030.  The climate finance gap is approximately $213.4 billion (http://apo-opa.co/4gcsiTo) annually through 2030.

Insufficient domestic resources (http://apo-opa.co/471DE8y), compounded by the failure of the global financial architecture (http://apo-opa.co/471zU6K) to mobilize and at scale, affordable finance for sustainable development (http://apo-opa.co/4gcskL0), have led many African countries to resort to commercial borrowing on unfavorable terms. This has resulted in increased debt vulnerabilities. Africa's Public and Publicly Guaranteed external debt has nearly tripled since 2010, reaching $656 billion in 2022, accounting for 22.4% of the continent's GDP and exceeding Africa's public revenue-to-GDP ratio of 20.4%. In 2024, African countries are expected to spend around $74 billion on debt service, up from $17 billion in 2010. Out of the projected debt service, $40 billion is owed to private creditors.

Even more concerning, debt service payments now account for about 11% of the continent's total revenues. High debt service is diverting resources from crucial investments in infrastructure, education, and health – all critical for economic transformation and long-term growth. As of April 2024, 20 African countries[3] (http://apo-opa.co/47361TE) were either in external debt distress or at high risk of external debt distress.

The AEO 2024 report estimates that to accelerate Africa's structural transformation, the continent needs to close an annual financing gap of $402.2 billion (about 13.7% of its projected 2024 GDP) by 2030. Figure 2 shows that transport[4] infrastructure accounts for the largest share of the gap (72.9%), followed by education (10.4%), energy (9.9%), and productivity-enhancing technologies (6.8%). These figures reflect decades of underinvestment in critical areas for development.

The level of financing gap in transport infrastructure reflects the continent's shortfall explained by decades of public underinvestment to upgrade existing road infrastructure or open new roadways, to match the growing population and economic dynamism across the continent. For instance, Africa's median road density is about 12 km per 100 km2, compared with 42.5 km in high-performing developing countries and 136 km in high-income countries. Only about 27% of African roads are paved, far behind the rest of the world (about 49%) and other developing countries (35.4%).

[1] Niger, Senegal, Libya, Côte d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Benin, Djibouti, Gambia, and Uganda

[2] Algeria, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, eSwatini, Lesotho, Libya, Mauritius, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, and Tunisia

[3] Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Congo, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, São Tomé and Príncipe, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Zambia, and Zimbabwe

[4] Proxied by roads as road transport is the most frequently used means of transporting goods and people across the continent, carrying at least 80 percent of goods and 90 percent of passengers.

On education, vital for equipping the current and future workforce with the required skillset for structural transformation, African countries' median SDG index score was only 51.5 (out of a maximum of 100) in 2022, while other low-income developing countries reached a median score of 87. In addition, according to World Bank's World Development Indicators (http://apo-opa.co/3AGXw4N), African governments currently spend on average $312 annually per student in primary education, $473 on secondary education, and $2,227 on tertiary education, or about, respectively, 3, 2.3, and 1.1 times lower than high-performing developing countries on  SDG 4. On energy, Africa's median SDG 7 index score was 38.8 in 2022, suggesting that a typical African country was 61.2% further away from achieving the best possible outcome on SDG 7 targets. Despite its vast energy potential, electric power consumption per capita in Africa is still the lowest in the world, estimated at 638.4 kilowatt-hours (kWh) in 2021, versus 2,056 kWh in other developing countries. Due to poor energy infrastructure, over 600 million Africans have no access to electricity http://apo-opa.co/46YZuJT and this is despite progress in recent years[1]. On productivity-enhancing technology and innovation, the continent lags other regions too. This impedes its ability to either innovate and introduce new products, technologies, and/or services that could support its structural transformation. African countries' average Gross Domestic Expenditure on R&D (GERD) represents about 0.4% of their GDP (against about 1% in the rest of the world) and they spend on average $10.7 per capita on GERD (compared to $403.2 per capita in other regions of the world). Furthermore, the continent displays the lowest concentration of researchers in R&D, with an average of 221 researchers per million people, against 742 researchers in other developing countries.

The financing gap varies significantly across countries. The cross-country heterogeneity is mainly explained by differences in current SDG performance related to structural transformation as well as differences in demographics (current and projected population size and composition, land size, and the like) and socioeconomic characteristics (current and projected GDP per capita, and spending on education, infrastructure, and so on). As shown in Figure 3, the estimated annual financing gap represents at least 10 % of 2024's projected GDP in 36 African countries, and in nine of these, at least 50 % of GDP. For such countries, closing the financing gap by 2030 is, therefore, realistically impossible.

[1] For instance, the average share of people with access to electricity increased from about 38 percent in 2000 to about 59 percent in 2022. In 28 African countries, the percent of people with access to electricity has more than doubled between 2000 and 2022, out of which it has increased at least fivefold in 8 countries (Kenya, Lesotho, Mali, Mozambique, Rwanda, Somalia, Tanzania, and Uganda).

Note: COG: Congo; CPV: Cabo Verde; GHA: Ghana; CIV: Cote d'Ivoire; GAB: Gabon; GNQ: Equatorial Guinea; MUS: Mauritius; SYC: Seychelles; ZAF: South Africa. Source: Authors' computation based on the African Economic Outlook (AEO) 2024 database

A more realistic approach would be to allow for a gradual but steady transformation process over a longer period, aligning with the African Union's Agenda 2063. This would enable countries to mobilize more resources domestically and externally, without jeopardizing debt sustainability.

What next?

Scaling up finance to accelerate Africa's structural transformation should be a key priority for policymakers. While implementing structural reforms is crucial for sustainable growth, success depends on the availability, timeliness, and scale of long-term development financing and enhancing spending efficiency. African countries should therefore, inter alia, focus on: i) scaling up investment to build requisite human capital suited to local realities, circumstances, and development priorities; ii) boosting domestic resource mobilization and improving efficiency of public finance management; iii) creating targeted and streamlined incentives to attract private capital for key transformation sectors; and iv) launching ambitious national infrastructure programs with assured positive returns to attract affordable financing.

The international community should reform the global financial architecture (http://apo-opa.co/4dXk53t) to facilitate African countries' access to long-term, concessional development financing at scale, complementing domestic resources.

By addressing these financing challenges and implementing targeted reforms, Africa can accelerate its structural transformation and move closer to achieving its development goals as espouses in Agenda 2063.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

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Empowering Job Seekers and Entrepreneurs: Transformative Workshop Coming to Pretoria

Location: MyPR

Pretoria, South Africa – Aiming to equip job seekers and aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills they need to succeed in today’s competitive market, a highly anticipated workshop is set to take place on the 18th and 19th of October 2024 at 24 Skipper Avenue, Akasia, Pretoria North. Organized by Noble Wealth Creation Group, this event …

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Tributes for former Vice-Chancellor of UWC Prof Brian O’Connell

Location: News

Tributes for former Vice-Chancellor of UWC Prof Brian O’Connell

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, has expressed great shock and sadness at the passing of the former Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Western Cape (UWC), Professor Brian O’Connell.

O’Connell passed away on Sunday at the age of 77.

The Minister has remembered O’Connell as an “illustrious” educationist and higher education leader who played a seminal role in basic and higher education following the advent of democracy in South Africa. 

“The roots of his passion for social justice, equality and freedom must have been planted during his experiences as a student activist at UWC in the mid-1960s and resonated throughout his extraordinary life,” Nzimande said. 

In higher education, the department said O’Connell led the university from 2001 until 2014, a period marked by difficult challenges of financial distress and the “merger” process. 

However, under his leadership, the department believes UWC faced up to both challenges with great skill.

The late Professor has also been recognised for guiding UWC through difficult times, transforming it into one of the few historically Black universities in South Africa to successfully overcome its history of marginalisation and stagnation.

“At the core of his transformational leadership role was his stunning success in deliberately positioning UWC to become one of South Africa’s leading teaching and research universities. 

“He worked tirelessly to mobilise resources from both South Africa and abroad to finance an ambitious Science Building project at a time of decline in fiscal support for infrastructure at universities.”

For his achievements in education, O’Connell was awarded the National Research Foundation’s (NRF) Lifetime Achievement Award in September 2017.

Nzimande further noted that “Professor O’Connell was without doubt a visionary and charismatic figure in higher education with an unwavering commitment to an agenda promoting progressive education as a public good, and for equality and social justice”.

According to the UWC Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tyrone Pretorius, O’Connell took the helm at a time when the university was facing the aftermath of staff retrenchments, financial vulnerability, the significant loss of academic leadership, evolving enrolment trends, and a despondent campus community.

“In his inaugural address in 2002, O’Connell argued that a university hardly deserves the name if it does not provide a space to grow in hope, to create and share knowledge, and to inform the agency.

“Through this approach, he emphasised the strength of using UWC’s distinctive academic role to rebuild the institution as an inspirational community of hope, to be a premier site of knowledge production, and to draw on the agency of its people to use and produce knowledge as agents of change,” Pretorius recalled.

Under O’Connell’s leadership, the university cemented trusted relationships with several universities internationally.

“These networks served as a strong catalytic force which laid the foundation for new partnerships and alliances.”

He mentioned that O’Connell’s legacy is one of passionate conviction, intellectual clarity and engaged leadership. 

“As we mourn the loss of a great man, we also celebrate his extraordinary life and the lasting impact he has had on our university and our society,” Pretorius added.

Among the many honorary doctorates Professor received, he was also bestowed the title Commander of the Order of Leopold II from the Belgian government for his contribution to the global tertiary institution sector.

“Professor O’Connell will be remembered in different ways by individuals he touched, but I have no doubt they will all remember his humility – from picking up litter on campus when he was the Rector, to setting an example for the campus community, or the simple gesture of remembering staff member’s names – even, at times, their families. 

“He was warm, affable and always dignified in immensely pressurised and challenging situations.” 

Both Nzimande and Pretorius extended their heartfelt condolences to the O’Connell family including his wife Judith and children, Amanda-Leigh and Bryan. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 09:39

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Gauteng’s Murray Park Library to get a new lease on life 

Location: News

Gauteng’s Murray Park Library to get a new lease on life 

The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) has commenced with the construction of the long-awaited upgrades to the Murray Park Library, located in Malvern, Johannesburg. 

The JDA  has commenced with the construction on behalf of the City of Johannesburg's Community Development Department.

First opened in 1957, Murray Park Library has been a cornerstone of knowledge and community engagement for over six decades. 

Recognising its importance as a hub for education and enrichment, the JDA spearheads a comprehensive redevelopment project to modernise and revitalise the beloved institution. 

“The upgrade of Murray Park Library is part of the Inner City Eastern Gateway Urban Development Framework, reflecting the City's commitment to enhancing infrastructure and services for its residents. 
Upon completion, the renovated library will serve as a beacon of learning and culture for Malvern and surrounding communities,” said the agency in a statement. 

JDA Executive Manager for Project Implementation Siyabonga Genu said the agency is excited about the upgrades.

“This project underscores our commitment to creating inclusive spaces that foster lifelong learning, cultural enrichment, and community cohesion. 

“Through thoughtful design and meticulous planning, we aim to deliver a modern, accessible library facility that will be a source of pride for generations to come," he said. 

Key features of the upgrade

The upgrade project will be done in two phases, with phase one focusing on foundational elements and phase two concentrating on constructing the two-story library structure.

Phase 1, scheduled for implementation in the 2024/2025 financial year, encompasses critical groundwork such as site clearance, construction of retaining walls, and foundational preparations.

Phase 2 will see the construction of the state-of-the-art library facility, spanning approximately 2000m². The ground floor will feature a general library space, a study area for children, meeting rooms, study centres, and essential amenities.

The first floor will accommodate a teenage section, activity centre, e-learning area, and additional facilities. The exterior enhancements will include landscaping, paving, lighting, and parking facilities.
Moreover, the upgrade project emphasises sustainability and accessibility, with provisions for solar panels, upgraded power supply capacity, and facilities for persons with disabilities.

Community impact

According to the JDA, the upgraded Murray Park Library will serve as a dynamic community resource, offering world-class library and information services to residents of all ages. 

From providing access to literature and educational resources to fostering a vibrant space for cultural exchange and lifelong learning, the new library will enrich the lives of a diverse population.   – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 09:57

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