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Celebrating excellence in African real estate, including South Africa: enter now! Johannesburg, 13 May 2024 – The 8th annual African Property Investment Awards (API Awards) are now open for entries. This prestigious platform recognises excellence in the African real estate industry. This year, for the first time, the #APIawards will be open to entries from …
BCX Alibaba Cloud Academy and Arovy University have joined forces in a strategic partnership aimed at empowering students to cultivate essential skills for the expanding digital economy in Africa. The basis of this initiative is the Alibaba Cloud Academic Empowerment Programme, a pioneering effort to embed digital excellence within academic institutions globally. Arovy University, situated …
30 years of democracy: The electrification of South African households
Despite a myriad of challenges – both present and past – along the way, the South African government through Eskom and municipalities has made great strides towards achieving universal access to electricity in the country.
This came out during a roundtable on the electrification programme since 1994 hosted by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).
According to the Eskom website, in 1987, fewer than 13 million people had access to electricity with the vast majority of that access servicing white households – leaving other population groups reeling in the dark.
At the dawn of democracy in 1994, Parliament endorsed a plan to create universal access to electricity – defined at some 97% due to population growth and challenges related to the formalisation of informal settlements.
This charged government’s wholesale plan to electrify homes. Now, access to electricity in South Africa today is at least 94% according to Statistics South Africa.
Director Project Monitoring and Intergovernmental Relations at the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, Lufuno Madzhie, said the electrification programme has thus far, been a success.
“[During 1994 to 1998] Eskom and municipalities only electrified 2.5 million households. In 2001, then government decided this [electrification] programme needs to reside within the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy [DMRE]. Through us as the department, working with different stakeholders, we have achieved a lot with regard to this electrification programme.
“Through this programme, the department has achieved a huge milestone. Currently, we have electrified over 8.3 million households,” he said.
Eskom’s Pozisa Njezula emphasised how access to electricity improves the welfare of households and explained how Eskom contributes to facilitating access for hard-to-reach rural areas.
“[It allows for the] improving on safety where we no longer have to use candles and paraffin stoves. It improves on convenience where we no longer have to collect wood to cook and also, in terms of improving on education where kids can study at night.
“With…us now pushing towards universal access, the challenge that we are now faced with is that we now have to reach the far-flung areas. The far corners in all the rural areas. With the support from the DMRE, as Eskom we have started and embarked on the rolling out of micro grids for those far-flung areas where you may not be able to get grid electricity because of losses as well as the amount of money that you would have to spend to get to those areas.
“The [micro grid] is just a container, it has solar panels, it has got batteries and then you’ve got the reticulation network. When you get to a certain area, you electrify it off grid and those people benefit,” she said.
Challenges and solutions
Njezula bemoaned that although the electrification programme is going full steam ahead, the power utility faces serious and dangerous challenges when going into communities.
“We are not immune as Eskom to the crime [and] extortion in our project sites. In South Africa, with almost all the projects that are being undertaken, there’s reports of these extortions and these demands for certain amounts of money, for protection fees and so forth.
“That delays the progress in our projects, and it really puts the lives of our employees as well as our contractors in danger. In some instances, we have to leave site, we need to be escorted, we need protection,” she said.
Head of energy and electricity distribution at the South African Local Government Association, Nhlanhla Ngidi, described South Africa’s electrification plan as a “moving target”.
“In terms of access itself, at 94%, I think it’s very important that people understand because this is a moving target. In a year’s time, you could find this being below 94% and it’s because of all these challenges…people moving towards where the economy is more active.
“Municipalities have done quite well but with the capacity challenges we have, we still need municipalities to be assisted and government needs to put in place agencies that can come in and be catalysts in terms of the implementation of the programme,” he said.
Energy expert, Chris Yelland, agreed that access to electricity has improved but warned that affordability remains a blockage to some households.
“[There] are some technology developments that require that we look at these distant rural customers. The first thing of course is renewable energy. The price of renewable energy…has come down dramatically over the last ten years. This is now opening the doors to renewable energy for remote households that never existed ten years ago.
“There’s a lot to celebrate in electrification [but] there’s a lot to do about affordability. We are not there yet. We need to understand where we come from, where we are and where we’re going and for that we need data…so that we know where we are and where we’re going” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 05/14/2024 - 14:06
Condolences for Motsuenyane family
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his condolences to the Motsuenyane family following the death of Nomgcibelo Jocelyn Motsuenyane.
She died a day following the funeral of her husband, Dr Sam Motsuenyane.
“As South Africans, we stand by the Motsuenyanes in your moment of compounded loss.
“Sam and Jocelyn Motsuenyane are icons of their generation whose belief in education and entrepreneurship as keys to self-realisation and reliance sustained communities and contributed to the inclusive economy we continue to build today.
“May they rest together in peace at the end of a life of service and upliftment and a union they shared for 70 years,” President Ramaphosa said on Tuesday.
Ma Motsuenyane was an anti-Apartheid activist listed in the records of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission as someone who suffered gross violation of human rights under that regime.
Her home was petrol bombed – and subsequently lost in March 1986 – by members of the Bophuthatswana Police at Winterveld in the Bophuthatswana homeland.
She was part of a group attempting to organise a meeting between the community and the Winterveld Community Council to address grievances relating to police harassment.
Her husband, Dr Sam Motsuenyane, was a revered black business pioneer.
He was the co-founder of the pivotal National African Federated Chamber of Commerce (NAFCOC) and played a leading role in the establishment of African Bank – both at the height of apartheid.
Ma Motsuenyane is expected to be buried later this week. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 05/14/2024 - 09:50
Nzimande committed to work with Forth Hare University Council
Higher Education and Training Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, has reiterated his commitment to working with the Council of the University of Fort Hare and all key university stakeholders to ensure clean governance at the university.
This comes after Nzimande held a special meeting with the Council of the University of Fort Hare.
The meeting, which was held last Friday, forms part of Nzimande’s continued interventions to ensure stability and clean governance at the University of Fort Hare.
The purpose of the meeting was for the Council to provide the Minister with a progress update on specific governance issues and the disturbing recent events, including the arrest of senior university employees, with some employed in the Vice Chancellor's office.
Reporting on the outcome of the meeting, the department disputed media reports suggesting that Nzimande’s meeting with the university council collapsed.
According to a statement issued by the department, some members of the Council had initially expressed concern that a detailed agenda was not distributed before the meeting.
However, after a brief break that was mutually agreed to, the meeting continued and the Minister then tabled his set of concerns about the recent developments at the university.
Nzimande also indicated that he would like the Council, as the highest decision-making body, to respond to the concerns raised.
“After tabling his concerns, it was agreed that the Council will not respond immediately to the issues raised by the Minister and that the Minister will communicate his list of concerns to the Council, in writing.
“The Minister's concerns will form the basis for the next meeting with the Council, which will be a physical meeting, to be convened by the department within several days,” the department explained.
The department said Nzimande is pleased with the outcome of the meeting and remains committed to working with the Council and all university’s key stakeholders to ensure that clean governance is restored, and that the proud history of the university is protected. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 05/14/2024 - 10:12
KZN tourism entrepreneurs set to showcase province’s rich culture at Indaba
As thousands of delegates attending Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) 2024 descend on Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, emerging tourism entrepreneurs participating in the event are set to showcase their businesses and the province’s rich culture and history.
The Travel Indaba, which kicks off from 13 to 16 May 2024 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC), brings together exhibitors from various African nations and buyers worldwide to showcase a collection of products from across the African tourism sector.
The event also emphasises capacity building and knowledge sharing, benefiting all attendees, including smaller and emerging businesses in the industry.
READ | SMMEs gear up for Africa’s Travel Indaba
The Travel Indaba is expected to be attended by delegates from 26 African countries, including 120 small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs).
Among the KZN entrepreneur exhibitors is Nkosikhona Ndlovu, the man behind Amangonyama Tour Operator, a 100% Black-owned company in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
Ndlovu said his aim is to deliver safety, education, and unforgettable experiences for his clients attending the indaba.
“For me, Africa’s Travel Indaba is a huge opportunity to showcase what we offer and to engage with potential buyers from across Africa. I am hoping to make valuable connections and secure future business opportunities,” Ndlovu said.
Entrepreneur Msizeni Mngadi, who is the owner of Indlondlo Cultural Village in the Valley of a Thousand Hills, said he is passionate about introducing visitors to the Zulu culture.
Mngadi noted that Indlondlo Cultural Village is not just a destination, but a portal into the heart and soul of the Zulu people.
“Here, visitors have the opportunity to delve into the essence of Zulu tradition through guided tours of traditional homesteads, captivating displays of dance and drumming, and interactive activities that allow for a hands-on exploration of Zulu customs,” Ndlovu said.
IMAGES (Source: Africa's Travel Indaba/X) | Africa Tourism Indaba BONDAY discussions
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Danica Bartho, who owns Biweda Nguni Lodge and Tandweni Villa with her mother in the heart of Zululand, Northern KZN, said they are eager to showcase their projects to the world at ATI 2024.
Biweda Nguni Lodge offers a blend of comfort and affordability, with farmhouse charm, while Tandweni Villa offers a luxurious safari experience.
With a focus on empowerment and skill development, Bartho and her team provide a safe haven for previously disadvantaged women to flourish within the tourism industry.
“This [ATI] is not just about business, it is about forging connections, sharing stories, and opening doors to new opportunities and continuing our commitment to empowering women and promoting sustainable tourism,” Bartho said.
The ATI event kicks off with the Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay) on 13 May 2024.
BONDay is tailored to foster thought leadership and share global tourism insights under four streams: unlimited, discover, connect, and grow.
The day is crucial for advancing knowledge and exploring new opportunities in the tourism sector, offering invaluable networking opportunities, thought leadership discussions, and insights into global trends.
Welcoming Africa’s Travel Indaba back to the province, KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, said Africa’s Travel Indaba plays a significant role in KwaZulu-Natal tourism growth and has an immeasurable impact on the province’s economy.
“Again, this year, we will have several emerging tourism entrepreneurs participating as part of the Tourism KZN Tourism Enterprise Development Programme to afford them an opportunity to showcase their businesses and lock business deals to help them grow in the sector,” Duma said.
EThekwini Municipality Economic Development and Planning Committee Chairperson, Thembo Ntuli, emphasised the significance of the indaba for Durban, saying it is an instrumental platform for the tourism industry, which is firmly on the road to recovery.
“The show has become synonymous with the city of Durban, as we have hosted this critical tourism showcase over many years. The city’s economy will benefit immensely from hosting this three-day long trade showcase as hotel occupancy is expected to be between 85% and 95%.
“In addition, local tourism products and community tourism organisations are ready and eager to engage with buyers, tour operators, and travel agencies to continue selling Durban as the destination of choice,” Ntuli said.
The 2023 edition witnessed remarkable growth, with a nearly 62% increase in attendance and over 1 033 exhibiting companies, attracting 8 688 delegates from 22 countries, and contributed R451 546 283 to eThekwini's GDP and R597 051 772 to KwaZulu-Natal, underscoring the event's significance. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 12:26
Parliament to wrap up its work on Thursday, ahead of elections
Parliament has announced that it will be concluding its work this week, with both Houses scheduled to consider various legislation, committee reports, and farewell speeches from Members.
According to a statement released by Parliament, the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) will consider the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill (BELA) on Tuesday at 9am.
On Thursday, the NCOP will, during its plenary, consider the Railway Safety Bill, National Water Resources Infrastructure Bill, Transport Appeal Tribunal Amendment Bill, Marine Pollution Amendment Bill, General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill, and the Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill.
The National Assembly (NA) is scheduled to also convene on Thursday at 10am to consider various bills. These include the Municipal Demarcation Authority Bill, Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill, Statistics Amendment Bill, Pension Funds Amendment Bill, and Public Procurement Bill.
Both Houses will wrap up on Thursday with Members’ farewell speeches, ahead of the National and Provincial Elections on 29 May 2024.
About seven committee meetings are scheduled this week to, among others, consider the report of the Pension Funds Amendment Bill and the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill.
Citizens can live stream the plenaries of the NA and NCOP on Parliament's YouTube channel or watch Parliament TV on DStv channel 408.
Last week, Parliament’s officials handed over parts of the National Assembly and the Old Assembly buildings that were gutted in a fire in 2022 to demolition contractors to begin the project of rebuilding the historic building.
The initial phase of the rebuild project will involve the demolition of structurally unsafe sections of the building, which have been designated as the “red zone” due to their instability and compromised safety.
The removal of these areas, Parliament said, requires specialised expertise and machinery, particularly given the historical and heritage significance of the building.
The damaged sections of the buildings will be cleared this month to start rehabilitation works by August. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 11:19
Health dept commemorates International Nurses Day in W Cape
The Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, is today leading International Nurses Day to recognise the tireless efforts of nurses in providing compassionate care and promoting health and wellness worldwide.
“Nurses are usually the first primary care contact for the patients and are also responsible for recognising patients’ symptoms, taking measures within their scope of practice to administer medications, providing other measures for symptom alleviation, and collaborating with other health professionals to optimise patients’ comfort and families’ understanding and adaptation,” said the department.
International Nurses Day is celebrated annually on 12 May in memory of the birth of the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale, who was regarded as the foundational philosopher of modern nursing.
This year’s International Nurses Day will be celebrated under the, ‘Our Nurses, Our Future’, theme.
READ | Salute to nurses!
It will focus on the economic power of care, which serves as a clarion call by the International Council of Nurses to countries to address global health challenges and improve global health for all.
The Western Cape event is part of countrywide activities to honour nurses for the important role they play in saving millions of lives and raise awareness of the challenges they face.
Dhlomo will be joined by Western Cape MEC for Health and Wellness, Dr Nomafrench Mbombo; United States Consular General for Cape Town Consulate, Todd Haskell; Acting US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (Pepfar) Country Coordinator, Saira Johnson-Qureshi; leaders of nursing trade unions, and representatives of key stakeholders.
The event will culminate with the launch of the Nursing Leadership Initiative aimed at building leadership capacity among current and emerging nurse leaders in practice, education and training to empower them with leadership skills.
The event, the department said, is a collaboration between the Department of Health and Pepfar.
The initiative forms part of a plan to elevate the nursing profession within Pepfar-supported countries as part of a larger effort to strengthen the healthcare workforce globally and ensure HIV response gains are sustained. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 11:53
Presidency and Department of Basic Education commit to respond to demands by Equal Education
W Cape Education urges parents to apply for Grades 1 and 8 before closing date
The Western Cape Department of Education has urged parents to apply for Grades 1 and 8 in 2025 before the online window for late applications closes on 12 May 2024.
Since the on-time admissions window for parents applying for a place for their child in Grade 1 or 8 in 2025 closed on 12 April, the provincial department said it received late applications for an additional 11 464 learners.
This brings to 114 144 the total number of learners whose parents have submitted applications for Grades 1 and 8 in 2025.
“We thank the parents who have already applied so far, as they are helping us to plan better for a place for their child in a school next year,” the department said.
According to data, 87% of applications have been captured on the online system by parents themselves.
The online admissions system is zero-rated and does not use any data.
However, if parents need in-person help capturing their application, they can visit their education district office for assistance.
Parents of Grade 1 and 8 learners, who did not apply before 12 May, will need to contact their district office for assistance as soon as possible thereafter.
“We urge parents not to wait until the last minute to apply,” the department said.
The window for Grade R applications and transfer requests for Grades 2 to 7 and 9 to 12 will run from 1 to 16 August.
Parents are reminded that they will only need to drop off their certified hard copies once they have received an offer from a school and accepted the offer.
The outcomes of the on-time applications online will start trickling in from 30 May and parents must accept or decline offers before 14 June.
The department is also encouraging them to confirm their choice of school speedily when they have received offers from multiple schools.
“These parents are essentially ‘double parking’ on the system, stopping schools from offering these places to other applicants until they make their choice.”
If a parent has not confirmed their choice by 14 June, the system will automatically confirm their top-ranked school that has made an offer and all other offers will then be removed, so that those places can be offered to other learners.
“Parents who do not receive an offer on 30 May should not be disheartened. Places always open up as parents confirm their final choices. We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to place every learner whose parents applied on time as quickly as possible,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 10:35
Meanwhile Nelson Mandela University senate supported a call for a ceasefire in Gaza earlier this week, and effectively an academic boycott of Israel
[Pretoria, South Africa] – As we wrap VApril, a month dedicated to education and awareness about vaping, the Vapour Products Association of South Africa (VPASA) recommits itself to keeping the public informed about the ongoing process for South Africa’s Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill (the Tobacco Bill). Most recently, several public hearings …
President Ramaphosa reiterates government's commitment to service delivery
President Cyril Ramaphosa has assured citizens that government remains committed to delivering services and addressing their challenges.
The President was speaking during the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo held in Kuruman in the Northern Cape on Thursday.
The DDM Presidential Imbizo programme presents a platform for communities to lay out the challenges they face to the President, his Cabinet and provincial and local government.
VIEW | Scenes from the Northern Cape DDM Presidential Imbizo
“We don’t want you, our people, to lose hope. Government is working in a very focused manner to address the issue of education and health. We are focusing on various industries, industries that are important for your progress like mining and renewable energy.
“Those are some of the key industries that we are focusing on. We are also focusing on spreading the skills base. That is why training is going to happen here… The public employment programme is going to create more job opportunities.
“With that, we should be filled with hope and confidence that in the course of time, we will be addressing some of the issues that you have raised here,” he said.
During the imbizo, residents told of challenges, including a lack of access to water, educational and vocational training facilities for youth, housing challenges and crime related issues.
READ | Communities eager to see and listen to President Ramaphosa
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the imbizo, President Ramaphosa acknowledged that the challenges the residents face are enormous but vowed that government will address them.
“As an administration, we have sought to fulfil and address those needs and we will continue to do so. They were huge from 1994 and we have done a lot to address many of those needs. The needs of our people will continue but we will continue working very hard to address those needs.
“But what is good is that the people have the freedom and the opportunity to raise their concerns, and as they raise their concerns, we are much more encouraged to address those concerns. It’s important that we should get to hear how our people are living, and what they are experiencing.
“This is a great opportunity for us to do more and to do more together, with our people,” he said.
IMAGES | Northern Cape imbizo in pictures
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There have been at least 13 Presidential izimbizo held throughout the term of the sixth administration, touching tens of thousands of people who interacted with all three spheres of government.
The Northern Cape Presidential imbizo is expected to be the last to be held for this term.
READ | District Development Model Imbizo kicks off in the Northern Cape
“A lot of people were very enthusiastic to raise their views and raise questions. The engagement with the community I always find it very rich, very empowering as well. We have been able to follow up on a number of issues that have been raised at our izimbizo.
“In a way, we saved the best for last. This is the imbizo that really tops everything and closes off the sixth administration,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 17:04
Calls for “academic boycott of apartheid Israel”
How does a startup, founded far from the advantages and resources of the world's tech hubs, go on to reach unicorn status? And more deeply, just how far can the drive for meaning and purpose ultimately take you? The inDrive documentary (www.inDrive.com) sets out to answer these questions.
In an exclusive premier in Johannesburg, South Africa, the inDrive documentary offered audiences a rare glimpse into the heart and soul of the company, with never-before-seen footage and candid stories from the individuals at inDrive's roots, including founder and CEO Arsen Tomsky.
Far from being a run-of-the-mill corporate film, this narrative delves deep into the butterfly effect of positive impact, illustrating how inDrive's initiatives have rippled through communities, creating waves of change that extend far beyond their initial touchpoints.
In the frozen Yakutsk winter, a group of people band together against the unfair price collusion of taxi companies that leaves people stranded in the cold. One of them starts a social media group where people can request and offer rides, negotiating prices on their own terms.
It's a simple enough idea, but it carries the potential to be revolutionary. From this frozen seed, a collective stance against injustice, inDrive takes root. Today, the company has grown to become the world's second largest ride-hailing app, operating in over 700 cities in 46 countries, fuelled by deep-seated ideals and ambitions that extend far beyond profit.
inDrive wants to reimagine capitalism, no less: to put people back in control, restore their freedom to choose, and so make their lives better.
Among the heartwarming tales shared, the film follows the journey of Obadiah, a young Nigerian boy once enveloped in the despair of his surroundings. inDrive's Beginit initiative is now paving the way for a brighter future for him and many others.
Reflecting on the film and its message, inDrive Founder and CEO Arsen Tomsky said: “We should focus on the path, on the journey. And if you do something important for you, that is very meaningful for you, and you develop an external environment during that journey, you are getting more and more with each step. And that is something which nobody can take from you. Even if you don't reach a peak, you will have something available to you.”
The production is directed by Lagos/Nairobi-based, Emmy Award winner Dan McCain, and Greek producer and editor Theo Papadoulakis, each renowned for their talents in portraying everyday individuals facing remarkable situations. Dan is a prolific filmmaker who specializes in locally relevant and impactful storytelling, while Papadoulakis, recognized with over 70 international accolades, particularly excels in showcasing the resilience of the human spirit.
"In making this film with inDrive, we hope to honor the resilience and determination of individuals whose dreams lead to something profound. It's a privilege to be part of a multi-country international production, collaborating with other talented directors, where we weave together inspiring narratives that add to the epic tale of human potential," said Dan McCain.
Person by person, the documentary tells inDrive's story. From the remarkable individuals in Nigeria, Indonesia, Mexico and beyond, who use the ride-hailing app to take control of their futures, to the communities who take their chance to move forward.
From Arsen Tomsky, the company's visionary CEO, who overcomes challenges both personal and social to take an idea to the world, to the employees who come on board to help inDrive evolve and grow, fuelled by shared values and a common goal. It's an epic journey, told by connecting people around the world. And it's far from over.
Watch the inDrive movie here: movie.inDrive.com
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of inDrive.
Press Contact:
Public Relations Manager - inDrive Africa
Lineo Thakhisi
Phone: +2781 3636 872
Email: lineo.thakhisi@indriver.com
About inDrive:
inDrive is a global mobility and urban services platform. The inDrive app has been downloaded over 200 million times, and was the second most downloaded mobility app in 2022 and 2023. In addition to ride-hailing, inDrive provides an expanding list of urban services, including intercity transportation, freight delivery, task assistance and courier delivery. In 2023, inDrive launched New Ventures, a venture and M&A arm.
inDrive operates in 749 cities in 46 countries. Driven by its mission of challenging social injustice, the company is committed to having a positive impact on the lives of one billion people by 2030. It pursues this goal both through its core business, which supports local communities via a fair pricing model; and through the work of inVision, its non-profit arm. inVision's community empowerment programs help to advance education, sports, arts and sciences, gender equality and other vital initiatives.
For more information visit www.inDrive.com
Introduction Vaping has become a popular trend in South Africa, offering a modern alternative to traditional smoking. For enthusiasts or those new to vaping, finding the right shop is crucial. Enter Downtown Vapoury, a premier vape shop known for its wide selection and excellent customer service. Why Choose Downtown Vapoury? Downtown Vapoury stands out in …
The sad history of Net1 and the Post Office shows that this is an important question
Government committed to resolve SA challenges
While government has made significant progress in improving the lives of its citizens in the past 30 years, President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged that for millions of South Africans, the promise of 1994 has not yet translated into a meaningful change.
“That is why we must, and we will, continue to work in earnest to resolve the challenges that are holding back our progress,” the President said on Wednesday in Pretoria.
Addressing the launch of the 30 Year Review Report, he said there is room for improvement in growing the economy, addressing unemployment, poverty, inequality and underdevelopment.
The 30 Year Review Report reflects on the work the country has collectively undertaken to build a democratic, prosperous and free South Africa.
“We continue our efforts to overcome the energy crisis, to implement structural reforms to boost economic growth, to drive programmes that create more employment, and to improve the capacity of the state to deliver services,” Ramaphosa said.
He said the democratic breakthrough of 1994 represented both a decisive break with a painful past and an opportunity for South Africa to chart a new course.
WATCH | Launch of the of the 30 Years of Democracy Review Report in Pretoria
Strides made
“South Africa is a vastly different place compared to what it was 30 years ago. Guided by our Constitution and its Bill of Rights, successive democratic administrations have implemented progressive policies and programmes to uplift the material condition of all South Africans, particularly society’s most vulnerable,” the President said.
These policies have included the provision of basic services, housing, education, health care and social support.
“We have established a unitary, democratic state and created institutions to uphold democracy and promote accountability.
“We have an independent judiciary, a robust civil society, a free media and a clear separation of powers between the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government.
“We have advanced transformative policies to change the racial and gender composition of the economy and the workplace. We have implemented laws to protect workers and advance their rights.”
Government has restored land to many who had been dispossessed and has provided emerging farmers with the means to productively use their land.
Challenges
“South Africa today is a valued member of the international fellowship of nations. We pursue a progressive foreign policy rooted in advancing the African Agenda, in social justice and solidarity, and in support of multilateralism. Yet we know that still much more needs to be done.
“We are contending with slow economic growth, high unemployment, poverty, inequality and underdevelopment. What is made clear by this Review Report is that the task of consolidating our democratic gains is not just the responsibility of the state. It is a responsibility that we all share.
“Just as we stood together to overcome COVID-19, just as we have united to confront other crises, we can overcome this period of difficulty in the life of our nation together,” the President said.
He said government was to create a better South Africa, a transformed South Africa, a South Africa that leaves no-one behind.
“The story of 30 years of democracy contained in this report is an honest and critical appraisal. It presents both light and shade, both progress and challenges. It is a vital reference for anyone who wants to understand the last 30 years and for everyone who wants to look into our future.
“It is our hope and expectation that this Review Report will be studied in detail and that its findings will be applied. This 30 Year Review Report is much more than a chronicle of a changing nation.
"As we chart the path ahead for our democracy, we will look to this Report as a valuable instrument for transformation, progress and growth. Let us make this a living document that inspires, encourages and guides us as we continue to build a democratic, prosperous and free South Africa,” the President said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 05/08/2024 - 13:55
Professor Brian Ganson is Head of the Centre on Conflict & Collaboration at Stellenbosch Business School, a hub for research and reflection on the private sector, conflict, and human security. We already know that whatever new governments emerge at local, provincial, and national levels due to voting on 29 May, they will face overwhelming challenges …
Restoring SA after apartheid
As South Africa celebrates reaching the historic milestone of 30 years of democracy, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, says in their reflections of this journey, South Africans should remember the kind of state that was inherited by government in 1994.
“For some, 30 years may seem like a long time, yet when we consider what the democratic state inherited in 1994, it was always clear that our journey would be long and with many highs and lows. In 1994 we were a fractured nation,” Ntshavheni said on Wednesday in Pretoria.
Addressing the launch of the 30 Year Review Report, the Minister said the very fabric of the country had been torn apart by apartheid’s policies, which had systematically excluded black South Africans to the fringes of society.
“Planning and development in South Africa before 1994 was fragmented, thus enabling their exclusion and marginalisation from developmental opportunities,” the Minister said.
The 30 Year Review Report reflects on the work South Africa has collectively undertaken to build a democratic, prosperous and free South Africa.
“Thirty years of freedom and democracy in South Africa is a journey through triumphs, challenges, and ongoing progress. It's a testament to the resilience and spirit of a nation that has overcome immense adversity to embrace unity, democracy, and equality.
“While milestones like the end of apartheid have been monumental, there's recognition of the work still ahead to address systemic issues and ensure that freedom truly reaches every corner of society. It's a time to celebrate progress, honour those who fought for change, and commit to building a future where every South African can thrive,” the Minister said.
She emphasised that the South Africa of today is much better than the South Africa of 1994.
According to the World Bank, South Africa is the leading economy in the African continent with nominal GDP of over $US373 billion.
“Gross Tax revenue collection increased from R147.3 billion in 1996 to R2.155 trillion in 2023/2024 - the ever growing economy, while facing headwinds at present, has demonstrated the ability to create jobs and employment despite historical and structural challenges. South Africa has 750 000km road network and it ranks 11th amongst the countries with the largest road network,” the Minister said.
South Africa’s road network that is paved and/or tarred is at 159 272 kilometres. It ranks 19th globally.
“It is no small feat that South Africa has achieved universal access to education for children between the ages of 7 - 15 years and we are on track to achieve universal access to Early Childhood Development. Through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, and its predecessor Tertiary Education Fund of South Africa (TEFSA), the government continues to break generational poverty with families and households having first time graduates - something many would not have dared dream of," the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
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Wed, 05/08/2024 - 14:17
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