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FNB’s December 2023 Property Barometer shows that “sales attributed to relocation within SA (semi-gration)” were an estimated 11% of the volume of sales (down from a peak of 14% in 3Q22). Lightstone’s 2023 Migration figures show 6,406 new households bought in the Western Cape compared to 1,034 in KwaZulu-Natal and 1,971 in Gauteng. Lighstone noted …
eThekwini municipality says fishers are banned from these spots because they violated City by-laws
Cushman & Wakefield | BROLL says operators seek sites to the north and east of Johannesburg, in well-located nodes with power supply, while in the smaller Cape Town market data centres are expanding, and there’s growing interest in Nigeria and Kenya. The surge in AI technology deployment and demand for more efficient cloud storage drives …
Programme to bridge gap between research, public policymaking
In a move aimed to enhance collaboration between academia and government, the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) have launched the pilot phase of its DSI-NRF Policy Placement Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme.
This initiative is designed to bridge the gap between research and public policymaking, thus addressing societal challenges through evidence-based approaches.
NRF Business Advancement Group Executive, Dr Thandi Mgwebi, said the pilot phase will focus on postdoctoral research fellows and emerging researchers at a postdoctoral level to provide them with a unique opportunity to work within government departments.
“Through close collaboration with key government stakeholders, fellows will engage in policy processes and activities aligned with the thematic areas outlined in the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Decadal Plan 2022-2032.
“These areas include energy, social sciences, agriculture, climate change adaptation and mitigation, health, and other relevant fields,” Mgwebi said.
The pilot phase has seen the appointment of 14 postdoctoral fellows who have been assigned to strategic divisions within the DSI and NRF.
“The DSI fellows will be placed at the Technology Innovation and Research Development and Support divisions, while the NRF fellows will be spread across Business Advancement, Research Analysis and Advice, Knowledge Advancement and Support divisions, as well as Research Chairs and Centres of Excellence,” Mgwebi said.
The fellows will support the human capital development and social grand challenges (HCD and SGCs) five policy focus areas including research impact; internationalisation and partnerships; technology and innovations; and open science.
The fellowship programme is expected to be scaled-up over the next few years, with an open call for postdoctoral researchers to apply for the programme in 2025 and beyond.
The role of research
Mgwebi also noted that in today's complex world, the role of research in shaping public policy cannot be overstated.
She said the DSI-NRF Policy Placement Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme recognises this imperative and seeks to empower outstanding researchers and academics to contribute directly to government institutions.
“This will allow the academics to play a pivotal role in informing policy-making processes. The NRF and DSI are committed to driving national development through research initiatives that have a tangible impact on society.
"Through the creation of opportunities for collaboration between academia and government, we aim to enhance the capacity of researchers in public policymaking, while at the same time ensure that investments towards research culminates into impactful policies,” Mgwebi said.
DSI Research Development and Support Deputy Director-General, Imraan Patel said the programme fills two especially important gaps, one in which they have PhD graduates who have a lot of insight and ways of thinking that can be used by the policy environment effectively, but which cannot be extracted.
“The other in the policy environment where we have the need for deep insight into what is happening, what does the available evidence tells us, etc. This postdoctoral policy fellowship brings together those two needs into what I think is going to be an exciting and innovative programme,” Patel said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 05/07/2024 - 11:48
KnowBe4 (www.knowbe4.com), the provider of the world's largest security awareness training and simulated phishing platform, has just released its highly anticipated 2024 Security Culture Report (https://apo-opa.co/3Wr5p7a) for Africa, providing a detailed analysis of the intricate relationship between security practices and employee behaviours within organisations. Drawing insights from surveys conducted across thousands of organisations worldwide, the full report (https://apo-opa.co/3Wx9hng) offers a comprehensive five-year comparative view, highlighting significant trends shaping the cybersecurity landscape.
“In its section on Africa, the report reveals that organisations evaluated across 20 African countries exhibit an average security culture score of 72, consistent with the previous year,” says Anna Collard, SVP of Content Strategy & Evangelist for KnowBe4 Africa. “This shows a moderate level of readiness in security culture.”
There are noteworthy variations among sectors and countries, emphasising the necessity for targeted interventions to enhance cybersecurity resilience. “The banking sector in Kenya is a standout performer, boasting an impressive average score of 83, attributed to its steadfast commitment to maintaining mature security cultures supported by robust security operations,” explains Collard. “However, industries such as public services, construction, education, and hospitality show lower security culture scores. This shows the importance of developing specific approaches to enhance cybersecurity awareness and practices in these sectors.”
Africa, with its diverse cultural fabric and youthful population projected to dominate the global workforce by 2100, faces escalating cyber risks amidst rapid technological advancements. Challenges, including limited resources, inadequate cyber awareness, and economic constraints, marked the continent's cybersecurity landscape in 2023. “This shows the need to strengthen cybersecurity readiness given the critical development requirements.”
Kenya (76), Nigeria (75), and Ghana (74) lead the charge in cybersecurity readiness, showcasing robust strategies backed by local governments. Ghana's significant progress in cybersecurity, evidenced by its climb in the Global Cybersecurity Index, reflects the region's commitment to cybersecurity excellence.
“With a security culture score of 72, it's important to address the findings from a separate survey (https://apo-opa.co/44upwDi) on generative AI (GenAI) adoption by organisations in South Africa,” adds Collard. “That survey identified regulatory gaps and a lack of training in countering AI-generated misinformation, highlighting the need for regulations, training programmes, and partnerships to tackle cyber threats such as deepfakes, especially during the upcoming crucial governmental elections.”
The South African Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) expects an increase in cyber attacks targeting important infrastructure and government bodies in the coming weeks until South Africans go to the polls. “This highlights the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity measures to protect both public and private sectors, communities, and national economies,” says Collard. “As organisations adapt to the changing cybersecurity environment, promoting a culture of awareness, education, and proactive risk management will be vital in enhancing cyber resilience throughout Africa.”
The security culture score is a global measure used to evaluate organisations based on their approach to security, explains Javvad Malik, Lead Security Awareness Advocate at KnowBe4. “This score reflects how much importance different entities worldwide place on cybersecurity within their organisational culture. In today's interconnected world, where a mobile device in a remote area can access sensitive accounts, working in isolation on security is no longer effective,” adds Malik. “Collaboration between governments and regulators is essential not just for creating laws but also for demonstrating practical ways to strengthen security culture. Organisations need to prioritise the human element of cybersecurity by focusing on continuous awareness and training efforts rather than relying solely on technological solutions,” Malik concludes.
For the full security culture report covering Africa, click here (https://apo-opa.co/3Wr5p7a). For the comprehensive report covering Africa and five other global regions (North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania), click here (https://apo-opa.co/3Wx9hng).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KnowBe4.
One of the most enduring misconceptions about PET, the recyclable and food-grade plastic most often used for beverage bottles, is that it pollutes our environment. As a result, many are pushing consumers to switch to reusable/re-fillable bottles but few are asking the important question: Do reusable bottles trump beverages originally packed and sold in PET …
The Cannabis for Private Purposes Bill is awaiting the President’s signature to become law
Newly launched Dube TradeZone attracts R1.8 billion in early investment
The Dube TradePort Corporation (DTPC) has officially launched the second phase of the highly successful industrial precinct and Special Economic Zone (SEZ) adjacent to the King Shaka International Airport, the Dube TradeZone 2.
The business entity of the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government recently hosted a ribbon-cutting event where they also previewed two factories worth over R180 million which are currently under construction within the precinct.
DTPC Board Chair, Mpumelelo Zikalala, said despite the constrained economic environment over the past two years, the corporation has secured seven private sector investors for Dube TradeZone 2.
Four of these investors have begun constructing their facilities.
The total private sector investment value secured in Dube TradeZone 2 amounts to R1.8 billion and is expected to create 600 jobs within the next five years.
Dube TradeZone 2 will target investors in the manufacturing, logistics and automotive sectors while facilitating the planned expansion of several phase one-based enterprises.
The launch of the second phase of the TradeZone follows the successful implementation of Dube TradeZone 1, which has 50 investors and full tenants. These include international companies such as Samsung, Mahindra, DHL, Chem Energy and PepsiCo-Futurelife.
Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, welcomed the investment as he reflected on the 30 years of freedom and democracy.
He noted the establishment of SEZ as one of the achievements of a democratic government.
He cited this investment as an indication that SEZs are instruments for job creation and economic development.
“As government, we are focusing on SEZ for a good reason. They are designed for specific developmental purposes, to develop export-orientated industries, attract foreign direct investment and technology transfer and achieve the generation of employment opportunities.”
The MEC said SEZs are an effective instrument to resolve “disturbing” levels of inequality, poverty and unemployment, which are strongly marked by spatial, racial, class and gender factors.
In addition to job creation, Duma said SEZs are broadening the municipal revenue collection base to improve the quality of life in the municipal areas, as well as the quality of municipal services.
“This makes SEZs one of the key instruments for municipal economic growth and development,” the MEC explained.
To date, the 26-hectare TradeZone 1 has attracted more than R2.8 billion in private sector investment from enterprises focused on air-related logistics, distribution and light manufacturing.
It includes the Dube TradeHouse, a dedicated facility for freight forwarders and shippers with airside access via an overhead conveyor air bridge to the adjacent, state-of-the-art Dube Cargo Terminal.
Dube TradeZone 1 is home to notable exporters that service the sub-Saharan African market as well as markets in Asia, Europe, and the United States.
In 2023/24, Dube TradePort tenants exported goods worth R610 million.
Dube TradeZone 2, will open an additional 45 hectares of industrial land for development and brings to market another 23 fully serviced sites, which range in size from 3 000m² to 57 000m².
It will also include three Dube TradePort-owned warehouses, one of which will accommodate medium-sized businesses enabling the expansion of small businesses located in the mini factories.
The two factories include the R166-million Yangtze Optical Africa Cable plant and R17.5 million development by HRMP, a 100% Black South African-owned logistics company that specialises in the warehousing and distribution of graphite electrodes. This new facility was funded by Ithala Development Finance.
Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TKZN) CEO, Sihle Ngcamu, welcomed further foreign investment by Yangtze Optical Africa Cable, which is already producing optical fibre cables and home solution cables for the local, Zambian, Namibian and Botswanan telecommunications markets at its facility in TradeZone 1.
This latest investment is expected to deliver a further 250 jobs over the next five years.
To date, Dube TradeZone has attracted a total of R4.6 billion in private sector investment and created more than 5 000 permanent jobs. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 05/05/2024 - 08:11
In the heart of a society that has long been structured around the binary concept of male and female, there exists a vibrant, although often invisible, community of individuals whose very existence challenges these traditional norms. Among them are the intersex people, those born with physical sex marker that do not fit the typical definitions …
South Africa’s LGBTQ+ Community diversity is capably represented, amongst many others, by: Dr. Francois Venter (a leading HIV expert and pioneer in life-saving treatments), Somizi Mhlongo (the beloved TV personality, dancing his way into our hearts), former Constitutional Court Judge Edwin Cameron (an advocate for equality), and professor Sizwe Mabizela (Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor and champion …
In the digital age, cloud computing has become pivotal in reshaping how businesses operate, offering them a plethora of benefits that drive efficiency, innovation, and scalability. South Africa, in particular, has embraced this technology, with local cloud service providers playing a crucial role in facilitating this transformation. The Transformational Benefits of Cloud Computing Cost Efficiency: …
Strengthen disability-inclusive workplaces
As the country commemorates Workers’ Month, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has encouraged employers to strengthen disability inclusiveness and the economic empowerment of women and youth in workplaces.
Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Minister Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma said that as South Africa celebrates 30 years of freedom this year, employers should be reminded of the importance of building disability-inclusive workplaces that protect the rights of persons with disabilities, on an equal basis with others.
“Empowering persons with disabilities is not just a matter of gender equality, it is about dealing with the legacy of apartheid and the transformation of society, particularly the transformation of power relations between persons with disabilities, women, and men to enhance economic growth and resilience.
“Studies have shown that gender diversity in the workplace fosters creativity, innovation, and problem-solving capabilities leading to better decision-making and improved business outcomes. When women are given equal opportunities and support, they contribute significantly to productivity gains, which, in turn, boosts the overall economy,” Dlamini-Zuma said.
She argued that promoting gender equality and advocating for a disability-inclusive workplace is an investment in the future economic growth of South Africa.
As the country celebrates the democratic achievements of government, the Minister emphasised the importance of reflecting on the remarkable contributions of people with disabilities, youth, and women to South Africa.
“Equally so, by continuing to advocate for resolving labour-related challenges faced by persons with disabilities and women in the workplace, we can create an environment where we can thrive and make significant contributions to the economy,” Dlamini-Zuma said.
The Minister noted that the provision of a universally accessible environment and reasonable accommodation are at the core of ensuring equity and equality for people with disabilities to perform their responsibilities effectively.
“To strengthen social cohesion and independent living of disabilities, we all have a responsibility to promote the self-representative voice of persons with disabilities by involving people with disabilities in the planning, decision-making and execution of policies, programs, and service.
“Therefore, we ought to strengthen awareness initiatives to know more about disabilities. We must employ persons with disabilities at all levels as they equally possess the capacity to work and fulfil the responsibilities assigned to them,” Dlamini-Zuma said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 05/03/2024 - 13:16
Supa Quick is urging motorists to make 2024 the year in which they change the way they see tyres. “Your tyres are the only part of your vehicle that makes contact with the road” says Werner Wernich, Supa Quick Regional Operations Manager. “Reputable tyre manufacturers have enormous R&D budgets devoted to improving the tyre’s technology, …
We sent questions to the ANC, DA, EFF, IFP, FF Plus, ActionSA, PA, MK Party and RISE Mzansi
Xinkuwani village has never had electricity
Doing business in South Africa has long been a challenge for the bravest and boldest brands and businesses, with the last few years serving up a particularly diverse set of obstacles for local commerce to overcome. Between the COVID-19 pandemic and associated restrictions, ongoing power outages, extreme weather events and road closure caused by a …
When it comes to foot health, having a skilled podiatrist nearby is invaluable. If you’re in Johannesburg and searching for “podiatrist near me,” you might find the numerous options a bit overwhelming. Here’s a practical guide to help you find the right podiatrist in Johannesburg to meet your needs. Understanding the Role of a Podiatrist …
Post Covid-19, the conversation about mental health has opened up in many companies. They have wellness days to coincide with World Mental Health Day, put on lunches and give out goodie bags. Employees get a breather to attend talks from experts, dance, laugh, and learn stress relief techniques. But have you ever wondered why, despite …
Tharisa Mines is trying to gag us, say Oridile Kgatea and Rodney Kotsedi
Black business called to be part of rebuilding SA economy
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on black business and black industrialists to be part of efforts to rebuild the country’s economy.
President Ramaphosa made the call at the Black Business Council (BBC) gala dinner held at Kempton Park in Johannesburg on Tuesday night.
He warned that without investment there can be no jobs, and without job creation on a large scale “our prospects for achieving full economic transformation are diminished”.
“By strategically investing in the economy we are laying the groundwork for prosperity, connectivity, and opportunity across our nation. Green industrialisation is an area of opportunity for black business,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President said government is prioritising the production of electric vehicles, green hydrogen production, and the processing of critical minerals essential for the battery value chain.
In February 2024, the President announced a comprehensive set of incentives designed to spur investment in these critical sectors, which will be rolled out over a ten-year period.
The incentives will stimulate innovation, attract private capital, and accelerate the adoption of green technologies, ensuring a just and equitable transition towards a sustainable future.
By embracing green industrialisation and promoting a just transition, the President said government is not only safeguarding the country’s environment but also fostering economic resilience and creating new opportunities for the workforce.
The President said as part of government’s commitment to fostering economic inclusion and levelling the playing field, the Competition Commission will continue to embark on market inquiries across the economy.
“These inquiries are aimed at addressing high levels of economic concentration and encouraging greater participation by small businesses. By identifying barriers to entry and promoting fair competition, we will create opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs to thrive and contribute to our economy.
“These initiatives underscore our dedication to promoting economic empowerment, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating a more inclusive and equitable economy,” President Ramaphosa said.
He noted that over the past 30 years, South Africa has undergone deep, fundamental, and irreversible change.
Black business has been a valued partner along this journey and he said he has no doubt it will continue to be so for time to come.
He noted that government’s relationship with the Black Business Council has deepened since the sixth administration took office in 2019. “I think I can say with confidence that it is also stronger,” he added.
President Ramaphosa commended the council for responding to the call he made during his inauguration speech five years ago for all South Africans to join government in setting its sights high on a future of growth and economic opportunity.
“You have rallied both with us and around us as government, in what has been a turbulent period marked by a global pandemic, civil unrest, natural disaster, crises in energy and logistics, and slow economic growth that has been further exacerbated by all the aforementioned challenges.
“We also know that as the sixth administration took office, we were also confronted with the task of rebuilding capacity in key state institutions practically from the ground up, following the devastating years of state capture,” the President said.
What has been immensely encouraging is that the door of engagement has always remained open, he said, adding that engagements have been productive and have always taken place in a positive spirit of partnership.
“As we look to the future with optimism, let us continue to work together on this journey towards a fully transformed economy where no one is left behind,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 05/01/2024 - 12:46
Mashatile calls on leaders from all sectors to build SA's economy
Leaders from all sectors of society must join hands to build a resilient economy and fight corruption, says the Deputy President, Paul Mashatile.
“We must collaborate, with each playing a distinctive part, to generate employment and boost trade and investment between our nations, the continent and the world,” he told delegates during a dialogue on the role of leadership in fostering economic growth, hosted by the African United Business Confederation (AUBC).
The roundtable dialogue held on Tuesday focused on the role of leadership in economic growth.
The Deputy President said he believed that effective leadership significantly affects the economic landscape of nations and societies.
“We are convinced that to build our economy, leaders from all sectors, including business, politics, government, and civil society, must work together,” he said.
“Our roles are all important, and if one lags behind, it will affect the growth of our economy. It is our duty as political leaders in government to formulate policies that promote an environment conducive to economic growth.”
The country’s second-in-command said effective economic policies can stimulate innovation, promote entrepreneurship and drive innovation.
“As you may have observed, since the advent of democracy, we have created political stability by promoting free and fair elections, which will continue to be the case in the upcoming election on 29 May 2024.”
The Deputy President said a stable political environment is critical for investor confidence and economic growth.
He told the private sector leaders that they have a responsibility to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, both of which are vital to economic expansion and job creation.
In addition, he said, the private sector is key to enhancing the competitiveness of the South African economy.
“Together, as leaders, we possess the foresight to identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and make strategic decisions that drive sustainable economic development.”
He acknowledged that despite attaining political freedom and substantial advancements since 1994, South Africa is yet to realise economic freedom and an economy that adequately provides for the majority of its population.
“As present-day leaders across various sectors of our society, we must set aside our differences and concentrate on fully rousing the potential of South Africa’s economy.
“We must proactively address socio-economic challenges such as high unemployment, poverty, inequality and corruption.”
Corruption
He added that in order to reach the goal of ending poverty and boosting economic growth set out in the National Development Plan, “we must all work together to fight corruption and support accountability, openness, and good government”.
The fight against corruption should be multifaceted, involving both the public and private sectors.
“We have to strengthen anti-corruption partnerships, intensify efforts, and promote a zero-tolerance approach to corruption led by capable leaders, who are resilient, highly adaptable and willing to implement bold reforms to surmount our challenges and transform the economy.”
Inclusion
In addition, he called on leaders across sectors to be intentional in their inclusion of women, youth and other marginalised groups in economic reform efforts.
He also touched on the Red Tape Reduction Team introduced by President Cyril Ramaphosa to improve the ease of doing business in the country and further stimulate business development.
“The team focuses on reducing red tape in priority areas such as mining rights, tourism operator licenses, travel visas, work permits, and the informal sector, aiming to create a competitive and vibrant economy.”
In addition, he said government has also reduced regulatory hurdles for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) and cooperatives, reduced VAT refund processing time from 15 weeks to four to five weeks and reduced the corporate income tax audit process from 32 weeks to 17 weeks.
“We have a collective role to play in paving the way for future generations of leaders to contribute to the transformation of our economy. Through strategic leadership, we unlock the countries’ potential, drive innovation, and create a better future.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 04/30/2024 - 12:32
Government creates better life during 30 years of democracy
Over the past 30 years government has empowered its citizens by implementing programmes aimed at improving their lives for the better.
As South Africa celebrates 30 years of freedom and democracy, Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Maropene Ramokgopa has reflected on the country’s development journey and applauded government for making significant strides in improving the lives of its people, while navigating challenges that have impacted South Africa's development trajectory.
“Over the three decades, South Africa has faced systemic and contextual challenges that have impacted the country’s development trajectory,” Ramokgopa said.
In 2023, the National Planning Commission (NPC) released the Ten-Year Review of the National Development Plan (NDP). The review reflects on the nation's progress and assesses the key NDP indicators and targets, such as poverty, inequality and unemployment.
“The NDP set a goal of achieving an annual average of 5.4% GDP growth and aimed to create 11 million jobs. Over the past 30 years, the South African economy has grown and is expected to be Africa’s largest economy in 2024 according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
“Our labour force expanded from 11.3 million in 1994 to 28.3 million in 2023. Due to progressive labour legislation, the race, gender, age, and skills composition of the labour force and employment have altered considerably promoting more inclusive economic development,” the Minister said.
She said government seeks to create an enabling environment for economic growth by addressing obstacles to transformation, innovation, competition and development.
“South Africa's social sector indicates notable progress in education, social wage, and health, with young people benefiting greatly from this progress. The country is moving towards universal access to education at all levels and improved overall educational outcomes.
“More individuals aged 20 and older have attained Grade 12 as their highest level of education, rising from 16% in 1996 to 38% by 2022. In 2002, there were 295 special schools for learners with disabilities. By 2022 there were 489 (435 public and 54 independent),” the Minister said.
The matric pass rate has improved to 82.9% in 2023, from 53.4% in 1995.
“Enrolment in public universities has more than doubled, steadily edging closer to the NDP target of 1.6 million enrolments by 2030. Access to higher education has been bolstered by the establishment of more institutions of higher learning and increased National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding,” the Minister said.
She noted that South Africa's health system has evolved and has led to improved life expectancy and increased access to Primary Health Care (PHC) services from 68 million in 1998 to 138.8 million in 2022/23.
“Furthermore, South Africa’s social wage is one of the most advanced in the world and has proven to be an effective anti-poverty tool. It grew from 2.9 million beneficiaries in 1994 to more than 18 million in 2022. The COVID-19 grant increased reach to 27.6 million beneficiaries. Studies conducted over the two decades have shown that the child support grant is associated with a decline in incidents of poverty,” the Minister said.
She said government has taken steps to address the youth unemployment challenge.
The Presidential Employment Stimulus has assisted in creating more than 1.7 million work and livelihood opportunities. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 04/30/2024 - 13:08
Unlocking the Terrible Two’s: Navigating the Journey of Autonomy and Exploration – by Clarissa Louw, Headmistress of @Sandton Kids School Parents, educators and caregivers alike are intimately familiar with the term “terrible two’s”. It’s a phrase that often evokes images of tantrums, defiance, and exasperated parents. However, what if we reframed this perspective? What if …
Uthaka Energy persists with plans for a colliery in Mabola Protected Environment despite six court judgments