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Introduction Padel is swiftly becoming a favourite sport worldwide, thanks to its engaging play and sociable nature. For beginners, the journey starts with selecting the right equipment, particularly the racket, which is crucial for both learning and enjoyment. This blog post will guide newcomers through the essentials of choosing a beginner-friendly padel racket, helping them …
In celebration of the great strides women have made in business, Proudly South African and Southern Sun have joined forces to recognise the sustainability of women’s leadership amongst thought leaders, ceiling breakers, and business leaders in the country. The Women’s Month celebration was hosted at 54 on Bath on Friday, 30 August 2024. Leanne Manas …
Just a year after the official sod-turning ceremony in 2023, the first residents of the eco-focused Serenity Hills estate on the KZN South Coast have taken up residence. This is a significant milestone for the vibrant coastal estate, with momentum set to increase as more investors discover this unique residential gem near Margate. “Handing over …
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 …
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 …
Introduction In the bustling world of logistics and warehousing, efficiency and cost-effectiveness are paramount. Forklifts, particularly electric models, are at the forefront of modern material handling solutions, offering versatility and eco-friendliness. This guide provides an in-depth look at forklift rentals, focusing on electric forklifts, understanding rental prices, and the significance of quality forklift batteries. By …
New Development Bank key to progress in developing countries
Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has called for visible thought leadership on how the New Development Bank (NDB) can play a more catalytic role in the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in developing and emerging markets.
The SDGs are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
“The Bank must be unwavering in its commitment to the SDGs as it remains the most relevant benchmark for the development priorities of developing countries. Therefore, as we grow and strengthen the NDB as an institution, we must not lose sight of its developmental mandate.
“There is a need to address global challenges such as geopolitical challenges, which impacts multilateralism, escalating climate stresses, widening economic and social divides, and challenges we face at a national level.
“This includes poverty, inequality, and unemployment that continue to plague our societies,” Godongwana said on Friday. The Minister was addressing the NDB Annual meeting in Cape Town.
The Minister noted the significant progress that has been made by the Bank since being operational.
“[However], we must recognise that there is still much work to be done. As the 2030 Agenda draws near, increased momentum towards achieving the SDGs is imperative. This is a critical time for global development partners to come together and convey a strong message on the broad development agenda,” he said.
The Minister said progress on the SDGs will require targeted investment.
“Access to concessional development finance for developing countries is imperative to ensure accelerated progress in addressing development challenges and achieving inclusive growth that creates economic opportunities for all.
“In addition, there is a need for sizeable increases and greater stability in the flow of private capital investments. The NDB can play an essential role in mobilising private investment and ensuring it flows where it is needed most.
“The Bank must implement innovative financing instruments to crowd-in private sector participation. This should be accompanied by technology transfer and capacity building support as multidimensional enablers to accelerate the implementation of the SDGs, especially in key areas such as renewable energy, infrastructure development, digital access and job creation,” Godongwana said.
He said investment in infrastructure is central to the achievement of the development goals.
“Infrastructure is an enormous economic multiplier, providing dividends for an economy long after the infrastructure has been built. We believe that the NDB’s activities in developing and emerging markets will assist in addressing the large infrastructure financing gap that has been impeding economic growth and development, particularly in Africa.
“In this slow growth environment, where fiscal and monetary policy is limited, public and private role players need to collaborate to support growth.
“To this end, we look to the NDB to provide solutions aimed at de-risking infrastructure projects through its financial instruments to attract private capital,” the Minister said.
This will support infrastructure projects and provide technical assistance in designing innovative funding models and institutional arrangements that could accelerate infrastructure investments at a country-level.
“However, if the Bank is to continue advancing the interests of the developing world and address challenges such as renewable energy, infrastructure development, digital access and job creation then NDB must make a concerted effort to speed-up disbursements of approved projects.
“As more African countries become members of the NDB we believe that the Bank can play a very instrumental role in the provision of infrastructure and addressing its infrastructure deficit,” he said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 11:44
Lamola welcomes Norway’s support to help resolve SA’s triple challenges
South Africa’s triple challenges of unemployment, inequality, and poverty persist, and Norway’s ongoing support and cooperation to enable the country to resolve these pressing development issues is greatly appreciated.
This is according to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Minister, Ronald Lamola who spoke during the opening remarks on the Working Visit of Norway Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.
Norway is one of the biggest investors in renewable energy in South Africa and is working towards delivering President Cyril Ramaphosa’s request for private-public partnerships to ensure economic growth and job creation through renewable energy.
“Our struggle for a better South Africa is intertwined with our pursuit of a better Africa in a better world. We welcome Norway’s commitment to collaborate with us as we forge ahead with efforts to promote peace and security on the continent and advance regional and continental integration,” the Minister said on Friday.
According to Lamola, South Africa also seeks partners to promote peace and reconstruction on the continent through various cooperation mechanisms, not in the form of aid but in a way that substantively enables Africa to leverage its rich endowment.
“In a manner which helps Africa live up to the aspiration, we sing about the African Union anthem, the clarion call to make Africa the tree of life.”
This morning’s discussions focused on bilateral trade including Norwegian investments in South Africa’s renewable energy sector, multilateral affairs, South Africa’s upcoming Presidency of the G20, and geopolitical developments, including peace and reconciliation efforts in South Sudan, Palestine and Ukraine.
“Our engagement today allows us to review the current state of our bilateral political and economic relations and unlock challenges and opportunities where they may exist.”
He said their talks also afford them valuable opportunities for reflection and an honest exchange of views to deepen common understanding of regional, multilateral, and global issues of mutual concern and interest.
“I do not doubt that today’s meeting’s outcome will revitalise bilateral relations between our two countries and build on the foundation laid in previous engagements.”
The Minister is of the view that Norway stands as a “beacon of unwavering friendship” to South Africans.
“It is among one of the few nations that extended a hand to host missions from the African National Congress during our most trying times under apartheid rule.”
He expressed his appreciation to the Scandinavian country for supporting South Africa’s liberation struggle from apartheid and said both countries were united by shared values of democracy, respect for human rights, and social justice.
“South Africa continues to make significant strides in reversing the historic injustices of apartheid.
“However, this remains a work in progress, as it has only been 30 years since we attained our democracy. We deeply value Norway’s contribution in this regard.”
He labelled multilateralism as being at the heart of the biggest issues facing the world currently.
These include promoting peace and security, trade, and human rights, ending hunger, preventing health epidemics, tackling climate change, and protecting the environment.
“We value our cooperation with Norway in multilateral fora and look forward to continued engagement between our countries.
“Strengthening our engagement on these issues goes beyond individual countries and cultures.”
He told Norway’s Foreign Minister that he hoped their continued collaboration through discussions would enhance and foster the constructive and fruitful relationship that both countries derive from our bilateral relationship. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 12:15
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The mining industry is facing significant challenges, from financial pressures leading to reduced margins and demanding stakeholders adding to procurement costs. Success in such an environment requires partnering with a supplier that is collaborative, flexible, and forward-thinking. RS stands as the ideal partner to help businesses in the mining sector achieve their goals while saving …
In honour of Women’s Month, an all-female creative team at McCann Joburg, in partnership with L’Oréal Paris South Africa, embarked on an inspiring journey, to create a content series that delves deeper into the concept of self-worth, as viewed through the lens of South African women. The content series features five popular South African female …
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
Experts differ strongly on new plan for no-take zone around six African penguin breeding islands
Pesticides which are banned in Europe are still exported to developing countries
The Portfolio Committee on Health met to discuss the findings of the Competition Commission's Health Market Inquiry (HMI) Report, which investigates the state of competition in the South African healthcare sector.
The HMI was initiated in 2013 to assess features that may impede affordable healthcare access and its final report was published in September 2019.
Responding to the commission's presentation, the committee focused on various concerns with the National Health Insurance (NHI) and the implications for the healthcare system, particularly in light of the HMI's recommendations.
Committee members asked about the origins of current challenges in the healthcare sector, emphasising that many issues stem from historical changes to medical schemes made before the current administration. During the engagement, it was noted that the previous regulatory environment, which guaranteed payment to providers and uniformity in care, has eroded, leading to confusion and instability. Members made a strong call for a return to foundational principles, including statutory tariffs and guaranteed benefits for medical scheme members, to restore order and fairness in the healthcare system.
The economic implications of the NHI were also highlighted. The committee expressed its concern that the transition could exacerbate existing issues within the healthcare sector. Committee members also called for a thorough investigation into potential collusion among major market players and highlighted the importance of ensuring that the NHI implementation does not lead to further monopolisation of healthcare services.
The committee's discussion also focused on potential challenges in implementing the NHI within the current fragmented healthcare environment. Concerns were expressed that without a coherent regulatory framework, the goals of the NHI may be undermined. Members raised questions about how the government plans to engage with existing healthcare providers and stakeholders to incorporate their perspectives into the NHI rollout.
The need for collaboration between the ministries of Health and of Trade and Industry was another issue mentioned as crucial for creating a unified approach to healthcare reform. The committee indicated that such collaboration is essential for addressing both health outcomes and economic impacts, allowing for the development of policies that promote innovation and competition in the healthcare sector.
The role of the private sector within the NHI framework was also discussed, focusing on balancing contributions from private healthcare providers while maintaining a robust public healthcare system. The committee emphasised the necessity of feedback from both the public and private health sectors to create a fair and efficient healthcare system.
Making his contribution on the report, committee Chairperson Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, expressed deep concern regarding maternal healthcare outcomes in South Africa, particularly the stark differences in delivery methods between public and private hospitals. He noted that in public hospitals, approximately one million babies are delivered annually, with only three out of 10 mothers opting for caesarean sections. In contrast, in private hospitals seven out of 10 women delivering via caesarean, raising issues about the motivations behind these choices. Dr Dhlomo emphasised the importance of natural deliveries, highlighting that women are capable of delivering safely without unnecessary surgical interventions.
He criticised the practice of prolonging hospital stays for women who have undergone caesarean sections, pointing out that many are required to remain in the hospital for several days post-delivery, which incurs additional costs and may not be medically justified. He argued that the standard of care should allow for early discharge, particularly for women who meet health criteria within six hours after delivery. Dr Dhlomo called for a revaluation of these practices, advocating for a healthcare system that prioritises the well-being and autonomy of mothers, rather than financial gain.
He urged the Department of Health to respond proactively to these concerns, emphasising the need for systemic changes that support equitable and high-quality maternal care across both public and private sectors.
In his concluding remarks, Dr Dhlomo asked the Department of Health to take note of all the questions and concerns raised during the discussions. He said the department would be given the opportunity to respond in detail when the committee convenes for its next meeting. “This approach ensures that the Department of Health can provide comprehensive answers and engage in meaningful dialogue regarding the issues surrounding the National Health Insurance and the findings of the Health Market Inquiry Report,” said Dr Dhlomo.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
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On the back of a successful showing at Schoolscape in Stellenbosch, the Qualibooks Group are headed to Schoolscape IT Gauteng. Hosted at the Indaba Hotel in Fourways on 29 August, the event brings together the education community; showcasing fresh and innovative ways to bring new technologies into the industry. According to the event organizers, the …
Introduction As global markets become increasingly accessible, investors and multinational corporations face the challenge of managing withholding taxes (WHT) and leveraging double tax treaties (DTTs). This essential guide delves into the intricacies of withholding tax, strategies for reclaiming it, and the pivotal role of double tax treaties in optimizing international investment returns. What is …
The reality for many schools in South Africa is bleak and often dire. Many students are forced to learn in makeshift classrooms under trees or in mud rondavels. South Africa’s most disadvantaged students attend schools that are severely under-maintained and under-resourced. This stands in stark contrast to research highlighting the critical role that a proper …
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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
In the dynamic world of corporate events and promotions, companies are continually seeking unique and effective ways to engage their audience and leave a lasting impression. One such innovative tool that has stood the test of time is the use of custom calendars. These versatile items not only serve practical purposes but also offer ample …
AG tables municipal audit outcomes
Auditor General (AG), Tsakani Maluleke, says the office of the AG remains committed to assisting municipalities to improve, following a reported regression of clean audits in the 2022/23 local government audit outcomes.
On Tuesday, Maluleke briefed the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs on the consolidated general report on local government audit outcomes 2022/23.
Outcomes of the municipalities (including those finalised after 31 March 2024) are as follows:
• 34 clean audits
• 110 unqualified with findings
• 90 qualified with findings
• 6 adverse findings
• 14 disclaimed with findings
• 3 outstanding audits
In a media statement following the briefing, it was revealed that only 34 of South Africa’s 257 Metropolitan, District and Local Municipalities received clean audit outcomes.
“While 45 municipalities have improved their audit outcomes since 2020-21 [which was the last year of the previous administration’s term], 36 have regressed,” Maluleke said.
The AG explained that municipalities with clean audits display sound financial management practices.
“They generally manage projects well so that deficiencies are identified and rectified promptly and so that timelines, budgets and quality standards are adhered to.
“The well-functioning control environment and good systems present at these municipalities form a solid foundation from which councils can prioritise further improving the performance and service delivery of their municipalities,” Maluleke said.
Direct impact
The AG lamented that poor financial stability and controls have a direct impact on the lives of communities living in municipalities.
“Wasted money and resources means reduced funding for service delivery priorities and, eventually, a greater burden on taxpayers. The lack of credible reporting on performance and finances weakens not only municipal accountability processes, but also the council’s ability to assess the municipality’s performance or to make decisions in response to underachievement.
“These continuing failures in the most critical part of municipal operations are not receiving the necessary attention from the elected leadership,” she said.
Pressing further, Maluleke implored council leaderships to take action.
“Service delivery improvements and the responsible use of the limited funds available will only be enabled when municipalities are capable, cooperative, accountable and responsive, and when they deliver on their mandates.
“Municipal leadership, councils and mayors play a critical role in setting the tone for ethical behaviour, good governance and accountability; and in creating a culture that fosters trust and confidence in local government,” the AG said.
Pockets of improvement
There was a reported improvement in the timely submission of financial statements by municipalities during the 2022/23 financial year.
The number of municipalities submitting on time improved from some 81% in 2020/21 to 94% in 2022/23.
“The improvements were due to accounting officers responding positively to our material irregularity notifications on this matter as well as provincial government supporting municipalities to act on commitments made to submit financial statements on time.
“Financial statements again being submitted late, or not at all, were the main reason for us not completing the 2022-23 audits of 10 municipalities by 31 March 2024. Seven of these audits have since been finalised,” Maluleke noted.
Furthermore, fewer municipalities received disclaimed audit opinions.
“Over the administrative term, 18 municipalities, mostly in KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and North West, have moved out of this category. Fourteen municipalities received disclaimed opinions in 2022-23, including two municipalities whose audits were finalised after 31 March 2024, which was the cut-off date for this report.
“The AG commended the support provided by the provincial government to municipalities in the 6th administration and called for it to be sustained in the 7th administration as this support demonstrated positive signs of improvement,” the AG’s office said in a statement.
Maluleke invited municipalities to take up the assistance offered by her office to assist municipalities.
“We remain committed to partnering with and supporting the local government accountability ecosystem through our audits, the use of our expanded powers as granted by the Public Audit Act amendments, and the many initiatives that we have implemented to assist and guide all role players,” she concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 12:01
The role of air conditioning in hospital settings extends far beyond simply regulating temperatures. In healthcare facilities, ensuring patient well-being extends far beyond medical treatments alone. The environment itself plays a crucial role in facilitating healing and recovery. Among the essential elements contributing to a conducive hospital atmosphere is the ability to maintain optimal air …