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FM Solutions, one of South Africa’s leading facility management companies, highlights the critical role of facilities management in driving efficient operations, cost savings, and safe workplaces. With a strong commitment to empowering the local community through effective supplier development, FM Solutions has emerged as a trusted partner in maintaining and enhancing infrastructure across various industries. …
Today we had a look at our MyPR.co.za web site statistics for the month to date of August 2023. We have deployed our own hosted stats software and have been closely watching and comparing these stats – with Google Ananlytics and our global Server Statistics programmes – in order to check the veracity of the …
Young people call for establishment of BRICS Youth Council
Making their voices heard at the 15th BRICS Summit, young people across the member states have called for the establishment of a BRICS Youth Council.
Addressing the summit currently underway in Johannesburg on Wednesday, National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) Chairperson Asanda Luwaca said the recent 9th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India China, and South Africa) Youth Summit reached a consensus on the establishment of a Youth Council.
“This will allow us to ensure deeper and stronger collaborations among young people. We thus implore that this summit endorse our proposal for the establishment for the BRICS Youth Council in its final declaration in ensuring that new pathways for positive change and innovation can be realised.
“In doing so, it will further ensure that no young person among the BRICS member states gets left behind. Young people in their collective believe that youth are the present and the future. Our interaction as BRICS member states cannot and should not be limited to an annual summit,” Luwaca said.
Taking place under the theme: "BRICS and Africa: Partnership for mutually accelerated growth, sustainable development and inclusive multilateralism”, the summit is being attended by the leaders of Brazil, India, China, as well as South Africa, as the host.
Noting that young people make up the larger proportion of the population of each of the BRICS countries, Luwaca emphasised that the voices and views of the youth are critical as nations forge a post-pandemic society at the highest making forums.
“We believe that the BRICS countries in general and youth in particular should use their collective strengths to prioritise the development paradigm, using as a guiding principle for our work as we continue the intra BRICS cooperation across areas such as trade, education, skills development and training, economic participation and transformation, health and well-being and social cohesion.
“At our 9th Youth Summit, we presented the draft framework for the establishment of a BRICS Youth Council, which will become the coordination body for youth development between BRICS member countries and will join formations such as the BRICS Business Council, BRICS Women’s Alliance and the new Development Bank,” she said.
Last month, the NYDA hosted the 9th BRICS Youth Summit and the Meeting of Ministers responsible for Youth Affairs, under the theme: “BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism”.
The BRICS Youth Summit is a platform for dialogue for delegates from member states, striving for the promotion of peace, security, development in a multi-polar inter-dependent and increasingly complex, globalizing world.
The objectives of the summit are to bring together youth participants, affording them an opportunity to share ideas and work on a concrete Action Plan for co-operation in economic, humanitarian, mass media, and science sphere.
This year, South Africa as the head of BRICS directed the summit to focus on discussions that aim to encourage young leaders among BRICS nations to actively participate in addressing the most significant global challenges, economic, social issues, and contribute to the developmental agenda.
It further called for a focus on constructive engagements on issues relating to youth empowerment, the advancement of youth development and in creating a conducive environment where youth will devise a path to a brighter and better future.
The Youth Summit preceded the BRICS Ministers responsible for Youth Affairs meeting, which was attended by the Youth Ministers; Heads of Executive Authorities for Youth; Senior Government Officials; and youth.
The outcomes of the BRICS Youth Summit will be presented to the Ministers’ Meeting for decision-making and adoption of the presentations and resolutions made by delegates from the summit. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 12:11
Creecy lobbies for funding of environmental challenges
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Barbara Creecy has called on developed countries to meet their commitments to fund the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund, which seeks to address climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution.
“South Africa calls on developed countries to meet their commitments to this fund in accordance with the Rio Principles, in particular the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) and Article 20 of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD),” Creecy said on Wednesday.
The Minister made these remarks as she has travelled to Vancouver, Canada, to participate in the 7th Global Environment Facility (GEF) Assembly.
“The 7th GEF Assembly takes place as the world tackles the triple environmental challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution. The assembly provides the international community with an opportunity to discuss the key issue of funding required to meet these challenges through the GEF,” Creecy said.
Taking place from Wednesday until Friday, South Africa will assume a dual role in the GEF as both a recipient as well as a contributor.
“During the Assembly, the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund will be launched. The GEF Council has approved the establishment and the programming direction of this new fund,” the Minister said.
The assembly will feature high-level sessions, roundtables, side events, workshops, and networking opportunities.
The Minister will participate in a panel discussion titled “Solutions for a Healthy Planet: Responsible, Inclusive and Transformative Governance”.
Established on the eve of the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, the GEF is a partnership for international cooperation where 185 countries work together with international institutions, civil society organizations and the private sector, to address global environmental issues.
The GEF Assembly is composed of all 185 member countries and meets every three to four years at a ministerial level to review general policies as well as review and evaluate the GEF's operation based on reports submitted to Council.
They also review the membership of the facility and consider, for approval by consensus, amendments to the Instrument for the Establishment of the Restructured GEF on the basis of recommendations by the Council. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 10:26
Call to support farmers
BRICS countries have been challenged to take the lead and develop a system that can create a resilient farming community.
The call was made during panel discussions focusing on agriculture, held on Tuesday at the Sandton Convention Centre.
The discussions were held at the BRICS (Brazil, India, China, South Africa and Russia) Business Forum, which looked at sustainable development in agriculture across BRICS nations and the promotion of trade and investment in the sector across the bloc of nations.
Emphasising the need for the creation of a reward system, the Indian chapter of the BRICS Business Council chair, Jai Shroff, said food security is a big issue, while climate change has a huge impact on farmers.
“Soil is the biggest thing for government and we need to create a reward system for farmers to sustain agriculture.
“If BRICS can take a lead, we can see a massive change that will really help improve soil and also create a revenue system,” he noted.
He said leaders should also reward farmers for sustaining the environment.
Bruno Ferla, who chairs the Brazil chapter of the BRICS Business Council, said his home country, which is currently one of the powerhouses of agriculture, managed to achieve this with technology to produce food.
Meanwhile, Chief Economist of the Agricultural Business Chamber, Wandile Sihlobo, noted a current change in temperature of certain chemicals and seeds, which are so critical for agricultural productivity.
“BRICS countries have to take [a] particular view on how they think about that,” he said, adding that improving intra-trade is very important, especially for South Africa.
Agreement to export avocados to China
Meanwhile, Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Thoko Didiza, today signed an agreement with Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi for the export of agricultural products to China.
Didiza expressed excitement on the signing of the agreement with China.
“Gaining access to China is a vital step in driving an export led growth for the South African avocado, which is a commitment the government has made under the Agriculture and Agro-Processing Master Plan.
“In recent years, the avocado industry has expanded by 4 750 hectares increasing the total hectares to over 18 000,” Didiza said.
Didiza added that China is likely to become one of the world’s major consumers of avocados and thus offers an immense opportunity to expand avocado production in South Africa.
The agreement comes as Chinese President Xi Jinping is on a State Visit to South Africa. Xi is also attending the 15th BRICS Summit which is being held at the Sandton Convention Centre. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 08/22/2023 - 15:55
The Portfolio Committee on Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has expressed pleasure in acknowledging the significant progress made in considering the input received during countrywide public hearings on the Climate Change Bill.
The Chairperson of the committee, Mr Ntibi Modise, said: “The thorough consideration of public input underscores the committee's commitment to ensuring that the Bill is comprehensive, realistic and effective in addressing climate-related concerns. The committee appreciates the active participation of individuals, organisations and communities who have shared their insights and perspectives on this important Bill.”
The committee has assured the nation that Parliament remains steadfast in its dedication to finalising the Climate Change Bill during the current term. Mr Modise said that the committee aims to enact legislation that not only reflects the concerns of South African citizens but also sets a strong foundation for a sustainable and resilient future.
The committee has committed to working diligently in order to ensure that the final version of the Bill is well-considered, balanced and responsive to the country's needs.
Meanwhile, Mr Modise has further expressed his personal appreciation of well-wishing messages from colleagues and various stakeholders as he recovers from ill health.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
15th BRICS Summit kicks off
The anticipation is over and the stage is set. The much vaunted 15th Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa (BRICS) Summit kicks off at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg today.
The Summit is held under the theme: “BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development, and Inclusive Multilateralism” and is expected to last until Thursday.
The Summit brings together Heads of State and Government from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa with at least 30 other Heads and of State and Government from Africa and all across the world expected to attend.
President Cyril Ramaphosa set the tone for the summit on Sunday evening, saying the BRICS grouping has the ability to “collectively shape global dynamics and acting together, have the potential to drive significant changes in the world economy and international relations”.
“This BRICS Summit is particularly important as it is being held as the world is confronted by fundamental challenges that are bound to determine the course of international events for years to come.
“Our world has become increasingly complex and fractured as it is increasingly polarised into competing camps. Multilateralism is being replaced by the actions of different power blocs, all of which we trade with, invest with, and whose technology we use.
“It is for this reason that South Africa continues to advocate for an open and rules-based global governance, trade, financial and investment system. It must be a system that does not depend on the exercise of power or unilateralism, but by the advancement of the interests of the peoples of the world,” he told the nation.
Road closures, safety and security
Traffic around the Sandton Convention Centre is expected to be disrupted during the week.
Road closures around the venue are as follows:
On Wednesday, traffic around the Midrand Gallagher Estate will also be affected from about 3pm.
Those road closures are as follows:
Last week, the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster, the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) moved to assure South Africans and delegates at the Summit that law enforcement officials will be on high alert.
The structure said it had mobilised “maximum resources from all government departments” to ensure the safety of the summit.
“[The] NATJOINTS is ready to ensure that as government prepares to welcome Heads of State, Ministers and leaders from various countries from across the world - that this happens in a safe and secure environment with minimal to no incidents of instability and criminality.
“A priority committee comprised of various government departments across all three spheres, has been meeting regularly with all relevant role-players to ensure a security plan is developed that looks at transport, route, venue, accommodation, traffic control, sea, land and airport border security.
“The safety and security preparations for the Summit are on track, with all critical role players ready to execute their various responsibilities as per their mandate,” the structure said.
The BRICS leaders are expected to deliver their first statements this afternoon. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 08/21/2023 - 15:33
The African energy sector serves as a catalyst for global development, and in this dynamic industry that powers the modern world, a select group of remarkable women have emerged as trailblazers. The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (www.EnergyChamber.org) is proud to announce the “25 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars' - individuals whose dedication, ingenuity and unwavering commitment serve as beacons of hope and pillars of inspiration. These women are redefining the possibilities within a traditionally male-dominated field, and the AEC proudly celebrates the rising stars who are leading the way towards making energy poverty history by 2030.
In no particular order:
Gbemisola Adeyemi Afolabi, Junior Geoscientist, AMNI International
Adeyemi Afolabi, a budding Junior Geoscientist at AMNI International, is an emerging force in the energy sector. With a Masters' Degree in Energy Geosciences from Rice University, she brings a fresh perspective to her role. Adeyemi's educational background, combined with her passion for geoscience, underscores her dedication to exploring and understanding the Earth's resources. Afolabi's commitment to harnessing scientific knowledge for practical energy solutions sets her apart as a promising talent within AMNI International.
Ibilola Akinnola, LNG Shipbroker, Maersk
Ibilola Akinnola has a wealth of experience across the legal and logistics fields, and represents an individual whose creativity, commitment and drive has advanced the global energy industry. A qualified Solicitor and Barrister of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Akinnola went on to complete her Masters' degree in International Shipping Law at Queen Mary University of London. Now, she works at integrated logistics company Maersk as the LNG Shipbroker, and continues to make a lasting impact in the industry.
Rekik Bekele, CEO and Founder, Green Scene Energy
Rekik Bekele is a seasoned professional with over 10 years of experience in renewable energy. With a BSc in Electrical Engineering, she leads Green Scene Energy PLC as its CEO, providing affordable solar solutions in Ethiopia. Bekele also serves as a board member at Ethiopian Solar Energy Development Association, an Acumen fellow, and founder of PurposeBlack ETH and Run Africa. Her diverse initiatives drive positive change in energy and social development.
Sarah Bouzid, Technical Sales Lead: Production Systems Division, Schlumberger
Sarah Bouzid is a Chemical Engineer and Technical Sales Lead for Schlumberger's Production Systems Division – representing the only woman in this role in MENA region. Her expertise lies in the Audit to Optimize program, where she engages with clients to enhance process equipment performance. After completing an engineering degree from Bourmerdes University, she worked in various roles at Sonatrach. Navigating the largely male-dominated sector, Bouzid serves as a beacon of hope for women in science and engineering.
Sandra Chukwudozie, CEO, Salpha Energy
Sandra Chukwudozie is the Founder & CEO of Salpha Energy, a company dedicated to providing clean, affordable and innovative energy solutions for a carbon-neutral future. She is also Executive Director of Dozzy, one of Africa's largest petroleum storage facilities. After completing her studies at the University of Dundee in 2015, Chukwudozie dedicated her professional life to supporting economic growth through energy development, gaining experience in international management, industrial relations and economics. Her innovation, resilience and ability to embrace change has made her a leader in her field and an inspiration to many across the industry.
Nadia Simao da Costa, HR People Analytics Supervisor, Chevron
Nadia Simao da Costa is the People Analytics Supervisor at Chevron and represents the youngest person to be selected for Human Resource leadership at the company in Angola. Leveraging analytics and evidence to develop strategies to manage the current and future workforce needs, Simao da Costa is a strong advocate for inclusivity and human capital development. As the African energy sector grows and more people enter the workforce, professionals such as Simao da Costa serve as valuable role models.
Eghosa Ebube, Portfolio Analyst, Chevron Nigeria
Eghosa Ebube, initially Project Engineer and now Portfolio Analyst at global energy powerhouse Chevron, brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Having honed her skills in various roles including Onshore Construction Engineer, she has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the energy sector. Her adeptness in engineering and her dedication to innovation shine through in her work, making her a pivotal contributor to Chevron's and Nigeria's energy success.
Katuiscia Laurence Ewane, General Field Engineer, SLB
With a Masters in Industrial Engineering from Ecole Nationale Supérieure Polytechnique, Katuiscia Laurence Ewane has spent several years working for global energy services company SLB. She currently serves as a General Field Engineer for the company and has pioneered several successful initiatives, including a new approach for the integration of Drilling Fluids and Cementing Fluids; completing a complex cementing operation on Mt Cameroon; and spearheading community outreach under the SLB Excellence in Educational Development program. Ewane is a testament to the important role female engineers play in Africa.
Taimi Itembu, Public and Government Affairs, ExxonMobil
A Harvard Kennedy School graduate with over 14 years' experience in leadership, energy and policy, Taimi Itembu represents an inspirational leader in Namibia's energy sector. She has served in various roles in the Namibian Government, showcasing her aptitude for policy dialogue and partnership building to drive transformation across the region. Her leadership in energy and exploration includes advocating for Africa strategy, investment protection, and a favorable operational environment, and as an industry expert, she represents a beacon of impactful leadership.
Anine Kilian: Managing Editor, Energy Capital & Power
Anine Kilian is a strong advocate for Africa's energy development. Currently serving as the Managing Editor for Africa-focused investment platform Energy Capital & Power, Kilian's journey began as a dedicated journalist and editor after studying at the Tshwane University of Technology in South Africa. Her career has taken her worldwide, and her expertise led her to become a pivotal writer at Creamer Media before joining Energy Capital & Power in 2018. Recognizing her talent and passion, Kilian was swiftly promoted to Managing Editor in 2021. Her journey epitomizes resilience, growth and a commitment to driving Africa's energy narrative at a time when the continent needs it most. Kilian represents a standout figure in the landscape of energy journalism and advocacy.
Ubuhle Noluti Mtetwa, National Manager, Secondary Logistics, bp Southern Africa
Armed with a degree in Transport Economics and Logistics Management, Ubuhle Noluti Mtetwa spearheads innovative projects in a traditionally male-dominated industry. In a relatively short period of time, Mtetwa climbed the ranks at bp from Logistics Intern to National Manager of Secondary Distribution. Now, she supports diversity efforts, using her platform to not only advance logistics in Africa's energy industry but support the progression of others.
Faith Musimenta, Senior Petroleum Economic and Financial Analyst, Petroleum Authority of Uganda
Faith Musimenta is currently the Senior Petroleum Economic and Financial Analyst at the Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU), where she leverages her skills in investment analysis to develop oil and gas financial models for billion-dollar projects. After competing her studies at the University of Dundee, Musimenta worked for various financial institutions including Citi Bank, Diamond Trust Bank and DFCU Bank. She represents an inspiration for women across the African financial sector, and continues to advocate for both inclusivity, sustainability and development of Uganda's oil and gas industry.
Nancy Asantewah Nkansah, Resource Manager: Planning and Supply Chain for West Africa, SLB
Nancy Asantewah Nkansah, a Resource Coordinator at SLB with 8+ years' experience, excels in planning chemical requirements and workforce coordination for efficient operations. With a BA in Political Science and a Geography minor, she spearheads resource management, enhances supply chain efficiency and facilitates environmentally responsible practices. From groundbreaking innovations to resilient problem-solving, Nkansah is redefining the energy industry in Africa.
Ezinne Nnachetta, Development Geologist, Chevron
Following the completion of her MSc in Petroleum Geoscience at Imperial College London, Ezinne Nnachetta has gained significant experience as a leading geoscientist for global energy major Chevron. Her 10-year commitment to the company demonstrates her dedication to opening up new hydrocarbon basins, integrating innovation with petroleum and forging new paths for women in energy. Nnachetta represents a role model for aspiring women in the field.
Teresa Isabel Nnang Avomo, CEO, GEPetrol
Teresa Isabel Nnang Ovomo, accomplished CEO of Equatorial Guinea's national oil company GEPetrol, ascended to the position after working in various positions at the company, including Deputy Director of Operations where she streamlined and optimized the NOC's upstream operations. Armed with a Masters from Heriot-Watt University, her journey includes various pivotal roles at Repsol. Avomo's leadership exemplifies operational acumen, innovation and drive, and she serves as an inspirational figurehead, both in Namibia's and Africa's energy sectors.
Monique Ntumngia, CEO, Green Girls Project
Monique Ntumngia is a sustainability entrepreneur and advocate for climate-gender justice. Founding Green Girls Organization, a Pan-African energy social enterprise, she leverages AI to pinpoint clean energy challenges faced by women in African rural communities. She is also the Founder of Monafrik Energy, whereby Monique measures and compares environmental impacts in supply chains, advancing clean energy initiatives. Her impactful work exemplifies her dedication to providing clean, affordable energy solutions not just in Cameroon but across Africa and beyond.
Lynette Nyagah, Project Lead, Bentworth Energy
As Project Lead at East Africa's pioneer oil and gas service company, Lynette Nyagah plays a pivotal role in establishing robust operational and quality systems. A graduate from the University of Cape Town, Nyagah gained experience in the sector as a Field Engineer for Baker Hughes. Now, she plays an instrumental part in positioning Bentworth as a globally recognized and competitive firm. Advocating for innovation in carbon footprint reduction, automation for enhanced efficiency, and the increase in participation by local African companies, Nyagha is an inspiration to many in the industry.
Oneyka Cindy Ojogbo, Partner, Centurion Law Group
Oneyka Cindy Ojogbo has a proven track record of providing strategic counsel to clients in complex energy transactions and projects. A graduate of Columbia Law School, Ojogbo currently serves as a Partner of Centurion Law Group, a pan-African legal and business advisory group. Throughout her career, Ojogbo has counselled clients across power, energy and infrastructure sectors. Her work has covered multiple sectors and tackled transactions of varying complexity, with her determination, passion and vision serving as an inspiration for many.
Isioma Okolo, Reservoir Engineer, Shell
Isioma Okolo is a Reservoir Engineer with the Shell Petroleum Development Company in Nigeria. She holds a Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Petroleum Engineering from The Federal University of Technology Owerri and an MBA from the Edinburgh Business School, Heriot-Watt University. Having worked as a Consultant in Pricewaterhouse Coopers and as a Society of Petroleum Engineering Certified Engineer, Okolo is paving the way for a prosperous future for Africa and beyond.
Uzochukwu Ozoh, Legal Advisor, Chevron
With a LLM from the University of Dundee and an MBA from Imperial College Business School, Uzochukwu Ozoh has emerged as an accomplished transactional lawyer who merges business acumen, legal prowess and risk analysis within the energy sector. Currently serving as Legal Advisor at Chevron, Ozoh guides a team of legal experts facilitating intricate gas, commercial, and supply chain transactions exceeding US$1 billion. Her mastery of stakeholder relations, leadership and organizational development makes her a force to be reckoned with.
Lecticia Sepulvede, Public and Government Affairs Advisor, ExxonMobil
Lecticia Sepulvede has a Masters in Petroleum, Energy, Economics and Finance from the University of Aberdeen and currently serves as the Public and Government Affairs Advisor for global energy major ExxonMobil. Her vision is to support Mozambicans achieve their full potential, and she works closely with stakeholders to facilitate safety and security efforts in the Cabo Delgado province of the country. Her commitment to people, her focus on the energy sector, and her ability to manage stressful environments makes her a highly valuable and admirable energy professional.
Eman S Shahin, Performance Lead and Senior Petroleum Engineer, Dragon Oil Egypt
Eman Shahin is a proficient Performance Lead and Senior Petroleum Engineer (SPE) at Dragon Oil Egypt, and boasts over 9 years' experience in reservoir, petroleum and production engineering. Her prowess spans budgeting, production forecasting, reservoir development planning and optimizing waterflood management. As a leader and coach at SPE Egypt, her commitment to mentorship shines. With roots at Cairo University and experience at GUPCO, Shahin's journey embodies expertise, leadership and fostering an inclusive energy landscape.
Mwanyengwa Ndapewoshali Shapwanale, Director: Communications and Stakeholders Relations, ReconEnergy Namibia
Mwanyengwa Ndapewoshali Shapwanale is the Director of Communication and Stakeholder Relations at Recon Energy Namibia. With a degree in Communication and Media Studies from the University of Cape Town and 10 years' experience in journalism and communication, she brings valuable compliance and ESG skills to her role in the energy sector. As the youngest member of Recon's management, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization's communication landscape.
Natznet Tesfay, VP Economics & Country Risk, S&P Global
Natznet Tesfay is Vice President of Economics & Country Risk at S&P Global Market Intelligence. Leading a global team of 150+ experts, she forecasts economic and country risk outlooks. With a rich background at IHS Markit and Exclusive Analysis, her expertise spans geopolitical analysis, energy transition and supply chain alignment. With degrees from Harvard University, The London School of Economics, and SOAS University of London, she has emerged as a trailblazer and advocate for Africa's economic future.
Nidra Araba Yebuah, Digital and Integration Account Manager for Ghana and Equatorial Guinea, SLB
Nidra Araba Yebuah is an accomplished Senior Geologist and Account Manager with over a decade of experience in the oil and gas service industry. She blends technical proficiency with business acumen to excel in her role. Her expertise spans data interpretation, geological environments and technical sales support. Yebuah has significantly contributed to sub-Saharan African operations, demonstrating innovation and leadership in the dynamic industry.
Call for Nominations
If you were not chosen this year, or if you nominated someone who was not selected, please understand that the process is highly selective, and we encourage you to re-submit updated information in 2024. We welcome suggestions of well-deserving candidates throughout the year. Simply email awben@energychamber.org. We look forward to honoring outstanding 25 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars again in 2024.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
SA pulls out red carpet for BRICS
South Africa will put its best foot forward at the upcoming 15th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Summit to be held in Johannesburg.
With a few hours to go before the start of the three-day summit that will get underway tomorrow, government has indicated that all is in place for the all-important gathering that will be held at the Sandton Convention Centre.
This year’s summit is the first to be held in person since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent global restrictions.
While the summit brings a level of frustration for motorists who find themselves in traffic in the Sandton central business district and related routes, the all- important gathering will show that South Africa is an important voice internationally.
“The fact that there’s more engagements with the BRICS countries helps contribute to more business and more trade between South Africa and the other BRICS countries. Those other countries see South Africa potentially as the gateway to at least southern Africa, if not the whole continent,” said Professor Daniel Bradlow of the Centre for Advancement of Scholarship at the University of Pretoria.
Bradlow points out that it is important that the meeting goes well “because then people can say that South Africa is a country we can do business with and rely on.”
The country on the southernmost tip of the African continent, was invited to join the bloc in 2010 and in 2011, South Africa attended its first summit of the group of leading emerging markets and developing countries.
Having been part of the bloc for over a decade, South Africa assumed the chair of the BRICS in January 2023. This year’s summit will be the third one that South Africa hosts as chair.
“We’re a member of an exclusive club in which the leading voices in the global South are also members,” Bradlow said of South Africa’s membership to the bloc.
South Africa has also benefited from loans obtained from the BRICS New Development Bank which was set up by the five founding countries of BRICS in 2015.
In April 2021, the Board of Directors of the New Development Bank (NDB) approved a USD 1 billion COVID-19 Emergency Program Loan to the South African government. The loan was to support government in its efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.
The loan was part of the second batch of COVID-19 Emergency Program Loans to NDB’s member countries focusing on economic recovery.
At a recent media briefing, International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor said that the bank had to date approved 12 projects in South Africa, valued at around $5.4 billion, to improve service delivery in critical areas.
The NDB was established to mobilise resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS and other emerging market economies and developing countries, complementing the efforts of multilateral and regional financial institutions for global growth and development.
In 2021, the bank initiated a membership expansion exercise and admitted Bangladesh, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Uruguay as new member countries.
Expansion and other matters
Among the range of issues to be discussed at the summit, is that of the possible expansion of the BRICS footprint.
“The big issue in a sense will be [on whether] should the BRICS expand and take in new members or not and there’s differences of opinion among the five [member countries] on what the criteria should be for doing this and who should be admitted; so that will be a big issue, not the only one but that will be a big issue,” said Bradlow.
In what can be described as a “special” televised address to the nation on Sunday night, President Cyril Ramaphosa said South Africa supports the expansion of the membership of the bloc saying the “value of BRICS extends beyond the interests of its current members.”
This is also the sentiment of Chinese Ambassador to South Africa, Chen Xiaodong who said that the body is “a big family of good partners, based on mutual assistance for a win-win cooperation”.
This as over 30 Heads of State and Government from across Africa will be attending the summit. Furthermore, over 20 countries have formally applied to join BRICS and several others have expressed an interest in becoming part of the BRICS family.
The summit has to some extent been eclipsed by whether Russian President Vladimir Putin would be attending the gathering in person. This is after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants against President Putin and Maria Alekseyevna Lvova-Belova in March for allegedly being responsible for the war crime of unlawful deportation and transfer of children from Ukraine to Russia.
In July, the Presidency announced that the Russian President would not be attending the summit “by mutual agreement” but that he would be attending it virtually adding that Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov would lead the Russian delegation.
At a recent state of readiness media briefing, International Relations and Cooperation Minister Naledi Pandor said South Africa chairs the BRICS in a “dynamic global environment where developments in the ICC were the sole topic of discussion around the summit for most of the year.”
At the time she said that the country was aware of “our domestic and international legal obligations.”
Reflecting on the President Putin matter, Bradlow said: “If he had come, it would have been terrible because South Africa would have been damned if we do and damned if we don’t.”
“We’ve been spared that. But the Ukraine war and Russia’s situation is definitely going to have an impact on the summit but it won’t be as bad as it would have been had Putin come,” said the professor.
Bradlow said the expansion of the bloc will be a big issue at the Summit.
“The big issue in sense will be should the BRICS expand and take in new members or not. There’s differences of opinion among the five on what the criteria should be for doing this and who should be admitted. So that will be a big issue, not the only one but will be a big issue.”
Bradlow said he would like to see the interests of the African continent being promoted.
“The ones that makes sense here is food and fertilizer with Russia. I know it was raised in a meeting when Ramaphosa was there but that it gets raised in this context again.
This as the Leaders of the African Peace Initiative issued a joint statement “called for specific steps to remove obstacles to Russian grain and fertilizer exports, thus allowing the resumption of the full implementation of the Black Sea package initiative of the United Nations Secretary-General.”
The leaders further called upon the United Nations to take necessary action in order to release 200 000 tons of Russian fertilizer blocked in European Union seaports for immediate and free delivery to African countries.
“The issues of global governance reform and around sovereign debt issues is important and also because climate is such an important issue.”
Wish list
On the professor’s wish list is the campaign for a third African chair on the Board of Directors of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
“The one that which is the most realistic that you can get action on is to campaign for a third African chair on the Board of Directors of the IMF. Africa’s voice is so weak from a voting point of view in the IMF and the two executive directors out of 24 that represent sub-Saharan Africa basically… and they each represent about 22 or 23 countries. So it would be good to have a third person who could take on some of that burden and be another voice for Africa,” said Bradlow.
No doubt being a member of BRICS has enhanced South Africa’s position and influence as an important emerging economy. It also has given the country access to policy and technical expertise of larger and established economies.
The red carpet has been rolled out; let us heed the President’s call to extend a warm South African Ubuntu to all our visitors. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Mon, 08/21/2023 - 16:57
Mafokate’s company invoiced a non-profit organisation over R1-million from a lottery grant for a music festival that never happened
Fifteen learners from the well-known Aitsa! Aftercare Centre in Stellenbosch will live out their MTBing dreams at the 8th annual Fedhealth MTB Challenge that will take place at Root44 on Saturday, 09 and Sunday 10 September 2023. The Aitsa! Aftercare Centre opened its doors in 2014 in the picturesque village of Kylemore. The doors are …
Attention all shopping enthusiasts! Get ready to experience your favourite retail destination in a whole new way! Somerset Mall, located in the heart of the picturesque Helderberg region in the Western Cape, understands the need to continually evolve and enhance the shopping environment. This inspired the mall to embark on an ambitious redevelopment project. Brace …
No intention to formalise illegal miners who are armed to the teeth - DMRE
Government has no intention to formalise illegal mining in South Africa, which is wreaking havoc in some parts of the country, says the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy’s Nqobile Khanyile.
“There’s no way that limited State resources could be spent trying to legalise illegal miners, who are armed to the teeth. This is a different illegal criminal activity,” the Director for Enforcement and Compliance at the DMRE said on Thursday.
However, the official said her department was not closing the door on small-scale miners, who want to be granted permits.
Khanyile announced the department has since received applications from over 101 artisanal miners.
According to Khanyile, the department also offers funding for those who want to purchase equipment and non-financial support.
Khanyile was speaking at a webinar on the impact and implications of illegal mining in South Africa, hosted by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).
She said the issues of human trafficking and gang wars have also infiltrated illegal mining.
“It’s a dangerous environment and this is the reason why the police and the National Prosecuting Authority are playing an active role to assist us to deal with this issue and we highly appreciate the effort taken by them.”
Khanyile explained that the State is the custodian of all mineral resources, under the Minister of Mineral Resources, to ensure the economic benefit of the exploitation of minerals is equitably distributed to all South Africans.
She told the webinar’s attendees that South Africa is a mining jurisdiction with a history of exploitation of migrant labour, which dates back to apartheid.
However, she said the regulation of mining has since changed where the environmental dispensation is concerned, which came from legislation in 1991.
“This is the only time the South African government realised there’s a need for some environmental governance in the mining industry.”
However, Khanyile described illegal mining as a difficult and complex operation.
She reiterated that criminal syndicates, who are exploiting people and children, are driving illegal mining.
“Some of them [children] have been taken forcefully from neighbouring States. The unfortunate part is that once it’s a criminal activity, it doesn’t only compromise the health and the safety of the people who work in these operations, but it also compromises the safety of the environment.”
Khanyile also noted that it hampers the integrity of infrastructure.
“We have already seen the impact, where sections of the roads are [impacted]. Surface infrastructure gets to be damaged, and all of this has a catastrophic impact not only the livelihood but the economic growth of the country.
“At the State’s cost, such remedial measures will have to be managed and this will eventually have a catastrophic impact on the fiscus to try to fix the problem that is caused by illegal mining.”
Khanyile said the department will continue to condemn illegal mining in its strongest terms.
“Illegal mining does not take place only in abandoned mines. It also takes place in other areas, where there are no deposits of minerals.”
In addition, the department has also noted a trend for operational mines being invaded by criminals at a huge cost to spend on security.
“Some take place closer to human settlements and public infrastructure, such as gas pipelines, roads and electricity structures.
“The scourge of illegal mining should be a concern to the country and all South Africans.”
She also dispelled reports that zama zamas are only illegal foreigners.
“We have seen the statistics on people who have been arrested and pursued. While a greater majority are those who are undocumented and in the country illegally, there is a growing population of South Africans who are participating in these illegal operations.”
Khanyile believes that the State needs to address unemployment and poverty to fight the issues of illegal miners.
She also called on companies to rehabilitate and safeguard their old mine dumps and punish non-compliant businesses.
She said this requires cooperation between mining companies, departments and the community. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 08/18/2023 - 15:55
African leaders engage on environmental matters
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Barbara Creecy has emphasised the importance of accelerating work on reducing vulnerability to climate change impacts.
This work must focus on delivering key mandates such as the operationalisation of the Global Goal on Adaptation; the Loss and Damage Fund; the Mitigation Work Programmes as well as the adoption of the modalities and scope for the Just Transition Work Programme.
Creecy made these remarks at the Nineteenth Ordinary Session of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN), in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, that kicked off on Thursday.
The two-day session is providing a platform for strengthening Africa’s collective engagement in the global environmental agenda under the theme: “Seizing opportunities and enhancing collaboration to address environmental challenges in Africa.”
Ministers will consider a declaration and decisions prepared by senior officials during the expert segment on a number of issues including preparations for the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP28).
They will also consider Africa’s participation in the development of an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment and preparations for the sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) among other agenda items.
As part of the engagements, there will be a number of Ministerial dialogues including on climate finance and protecting human health and the environment from the adverse effects of plastic pollution in Africa.
“It is critical that the UNFCCC COP28 accelerates work on reducing vulnerability to climate change impacts,” the Minister said on Thursday.
She emphasised that Africa’s approach to climate change must be premised on the principle of equity and the recognition of Africa’s Right to Development.
She further noted the critical links between building low carbon, climate resilient societies and sustainable development necessary to address Africa’s triple challenges of poverty, inequality and unemployment.
“South Africa looks forward to the inaugural African Climate Summit to be hosted in Kenya next month and the role this summit can play in the adoption of a well-coordinated Common African Position ahead of COP 28,” the Minister said.
Creecy will also take the opportunity to engage with fellow African Environment Ministers, to obtain their approach to the Global Stocktake, as requested by the COP 28 President.
Plastic pollution and pesticides
On the issue of Africa’s participation in the development of an International Legally Binding Instrument on Plastic Pollution, including in the Marine Environment, Creecy said South Africa remains deeply committed to the development of a comprehensive agreement to end plastic pollution.
In this regard, South Africa has shared the domestic experience of the Polluter Pays Principle and its usefulness in holding producers of plastic products accountable through the Extended Producer Responsibility Regulations.
South Africa supports the establishment of a Global Alliance to encourage partnerships and actions on highly hazardous pesticides.
Furthermore, South Africa supports the need for transparency to be able to manage chemicals safety through amongst others labelling, the Global Harmonised System, strengthening customs control, and other relevant measures.
The AMCEN was created in 1985 to promote regional cooperation between African governments in addressing environmental challenges confronting the continent. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 08/18/2023 - 09:26
From scientists and sustainability managers to waste pickers and buy-back centre owners, women are boosting South Africa’s sustainability efforts – but more needs to be done to ensure equal representation. This is according to experts within the sector, as well as the country’s longest-standing Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO), PETCO, which oversees collection and recycling efforts …
Calling All Authors: DSAC Publishing Hub’s 2023/24 Call for Manuscripts Now Open The stage is set for a literary revolution as the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) in partnership with Academic and Non-Fiction Authors Association of South Africa (ANFASA) to unveil the eagerly awaited 2023/24 Call for Manuscripts. This momentous announcement marks the …
NATJOINTS confident of safe, secure 15th BRICS Summit
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) has affirmed South Africa’s ability to successfully host the 15th Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) Summit.
“This is the second time that the country is hosting the BRICS Summit on South African shores. As with the previous summit held in the country, NATJOINTS is confident that this one too will take place in a safe and secure environment,” said Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, the Deputy National Commissioner responsible for Policing.
The 15th BRICS Summit will take place in Sandton, Johannesburg next week from 22 to 24 August 2023.
Addressing media in Pretoria on Thursday on the safety and security plans in place for the hosting of the summit, Mosikili said NATJOINTS is ready to ensure that as government prepares to welcome Heads of States, Ministers and leaders from various countries from across the world, the summit will happen in a safe and secure environment with minimal to no incidents of instability and criminality.
“A priority committee, comprising various government departments across all three spheres, has been meeting regularly with all relevant role players to ensure a security plan is developed that looks at transport, routes, venue, accommodation, traffic control, sea, land and airport border security,” Mosikili said.
Mosikili explained that the safety and security preparations for the summit are on track, with all critical role players ready to execute their various responsibilities, as per their mandate.
“Working closely with all stakeholders, NATJOINTS will thus heighten police visibility in and around the conference centre, with the aim of preventing and combating any form of opportunistic crime, pre-, during and post the summit.
“We have mobilised maximum resources from all government departments involved in the planning of this particular event.
“Together with the various law enforcement agencies, including the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) and Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD), we are executing and implementing the security plan accordingly, which will include more boots on the ground,” Mosikili said.
All law enforcement agencies deployed to secure the event will enforce the law at all times and at all areas of deployment.
“Each and every member deployed has a responsibility and an obligation to execute their respective mandates professionally, impartially and with integrity. It is on that note that we request everyone within the borders of South Africa to cooperate with law enforcement officers,” she said.
Mosikili cautioned members of the public against committing any illegal acts, as law enforcement agencies will not hesitate to act against anyone who conducts themselves in an unlawful manner.
“Any threats or disruptions will be dealt with decisively, within the ambit of the law,” Mosikili said.
Securing the venue
Only those in possession of accreditation to attend will be allowed near the venue and restricted areas. Those found with fraudulent accreditation will face the full might of the law.
Leading up to the summit, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and the BRICS Business Council will be hosting the BRICS Business Programme from 19 to 23 August.
This seeks to foster economic growth, promote collaboration, attract investment, and showcase opportunities within South Africa, Africa and BRICS countries.
All the BRICS Business Councils are bringing large business delegations to South Africa.
Residents in the City of Johannesburg are advised that there will be limited access in areas surrounding the Sandton Convention Centre. Those operating businesses and those who reside near the Sandton Convention Centre are advised of the following road closures that enclose the venue:
From 08:00 am on Sunday, 20 August 2023 to 24:00 (midnight) on Thursday, 24 August 2023
• Corner Maude and West Streets
• Corner West Street and Alice Lane
• Corner Alice Lane and 5th Street
On Wednesday, 23 August 2023, those operating businesses and residing along the Midrand Gallagher Estate are advised on the following road closures from 15:00 to 24:00
• Gallagher Avenue and Richards Drive
• Richards Drive traffic circle
• Johnnic and Lupton Street
• Johnnic and Pretoria Main Road
- SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 08/17/2023 - 11:35
Call for swift investigation into pregnant woman’s murder
KwaZulu-Natal Social Development MEC, Nonhlanhla Khoza, has called on law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough and swift investigation after the brutal murder of a pregnant woman in Ehlanzeni in Ubuhlebezwe Local Municipality.
Busisiwe Ngubo’s body was found just a kilometre away from her home on Monday morning.
It is alleged that the 35-year-old victim, who was pregnant with twins, was strangled and her lifeless body discarded on the roadside.
According to reports, Ngubo left her home after receiving a call from her police officer boyfriend. She had shared information with relatives and they were aware of her intentions to travel to hospital, as she was about to deliver.
"We demand nothing less than a rigorous pursuit of justice in this case. The individual responsible for this heinous act must be apprehended promptly and the full force of the law should be brought to bear on them," Khoza said.
In this moment of tragedy, Khoza emphasised the importance of eradicating violence against women, especially within intimate relationships.
"Our society cannot and will not tolerate such atrocities any longer. We stand united against these acts of violence and collectively strive for an environment where everyone, irrespective of gender, can live without fear," Khoza said.
The MEC said the loss of Ngubo is a stark reminder of the pressing need to address gender-based violence (GBV), and to foster a culture of respect, equality and safety.
She urged society to come together to demand an end to such brutality.
"Let us honour the memory of Busisiwe Ngubo by working towards a society free from such horrors."
Khoza has sent her heartfelt condolences to the Ngubo family and the community of Ehlanzeni for their loss.
“Our thoughts are with the grieving family and friends during this trying period,” she said.
The MEC has since mobilised a team of social workers to provide psycho-social support to Ngubo’s family and help them navigate through this traumatic experience, and find some semblance of healing.
Condolences to Umhlathuzana accident victims’ families
Meanwhile, Khoza has extended her heartfelt condolences to the family members of the children who were killed in an accident while walking to school in Umhlathuzana, south of Durban.
According to the reports, the tragic incident occurred last week Friday when four boys were on their way to Umhlathuzana Primary School.
The tow truck lost control, resulting in a collision, claiming the lives of two boys and the driver. Another young life was also lost in the hospital, while one boy sustained moderate injuries and is currently receiving medical care.
"In this moment of profound sorrow, our hearts extend to the bereaved family and the entire Umhlathuzana community, as well as the affected school. We offer our sincerest condolences and stand united with the entire Umhlathuzana community as they navigate through this period of mourning.
"Our collective thoughts and prayers accompany the families, grappling with an unimaginable loss. It is paramount that decisive measures are undertaken to avert such heart-wrenching incidents and to ensure the safety of our children during their journeys to and from school," Khoza said.
A dedicated team of social workers has been dispatched to provide essential psycho-social support to both the affected families and learners. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 08/16/2023 - 13:04
Introduction The concept of a home has evolved dramatically over the years. From simple shelters to grand architectural marvels, and now to intelligent living spaces, our homes have mirrored our societal progress. Today, the integration of technology into our residences has given rise to the phenomenon of “smart homes.” But what exactly makes these homes …
Introduction Home automation, once a concept limited to sci-fi novels and futuristic movies, has seamlessly integrated into our daily lives. As technology continues to evolve, our homes are becoming smarter, more efficient, and, most importantly, more comfortable. The allure of a home that responds to our needs, learns our preferences, and even anticipates our desires …
5 Reasons Why SMEs Should Consider Joining a Business Accelerator In the fast-changing world of entrepreneurship, small businesses often hit roadblocks that slow down their growth and success. From tight budgets and limited expertise to encountering barriers in accessing lucrative market opportunities; the struggle for small business owners is real. But, there’s a game-changer for …
BRICS countries urged to support township economy
BRICS countries have been urged to continue to support and invest in the township economy in an effort to reshape the perception of townships, and foster a brighter and inclusive future for all.
The Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME), Maropene Ramokgopa, led a first of its kind Township Economy in BRICS Dialogue in Orlando West, Soweto, on Tuesday.
Ramokgopa said that BRICS member countries have the capacity to leverage the combined resources, experiences and expertise to support each other in nurturing vibrant township economies.
She said joint ventures, investment partnerships, and knowledge-sharing initiatives can bring a transformative impact.
“As a BRICS nation, we must continue to support and invest in the township economy. By doing so we can rewrite the narrative of our township and create a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
“Let us seize this moment to foster innovation, promote entrepreneurship and build a thriving township economy that stands as a beacon of hope both in South Africa and across the globe in particular BRICS countries,” Ramokgopa said.
The inaugural dialogue was hosted by the Township Economic Commission of South Africa (TECSA) with the support of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) BRICS Directorate.
The dialogue is convened exactly a week before the commencement of the much-anticipated 15th BRICS Summit in Sandton, Johannesburg.
Minister Ramokgopa emphasised the critical importance of implementing policies that promote and empower small enterprises in order to fully unlock the capabilities of the Township Economy.
She highlighted that currently, the Department of Small Business Development and the National Planning Commission are collaborating with The Presidency Red Tape team to develop a targeted agenda for regulatory SMME reform in South Africa aimed at improving the business-enabling environment.
“We are excited that this time around, we are involving the township economy in this particular summit, all this that we are doing here are going to culminate in what will be discussed in the summit,” she said.
In order to ensure the sustained growth of the township economy, Ramokgopa said a multi-pronged approach is essential. Firstly, she highlighted that education and skills development must be prioritized.
“Providing quality education and training equips township residents with the knowledge and skills necessary to build, expand and explore new economic sectors. By investing in a skilled workforce, we are in a better position to attract more investors to stimulate economic development,” the Minister said.
Secondly, she said partnerships between the government, the private sector, and civil society are critical.
She highlighted that through effective and targeted social compacts, government has the potential to remedy some of the challenges experienced by township entrepreneurs.
“Government policies should be tailored to encourage investment, while private sector entities can offer mentorship, funding, and market access. Thirdly, we must leverage on our country’s enabling legislation to capacitate, support and accelerate township economies,” she said.
Ramokgopa emphasised that townships remain the gateway to the economic participation of millions of our people adding that government must be deliberate about taking BRICS to townships and townships to BRICS. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 08/15/2023 - 14:43
It is all systems go for the start of the 15th BRICS Summit
By Michael Currin
It is Women’s Month and Government is delighted to be hosting an important group of leading emerging markets and developing countries, namely Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa for the 15th edition of the BRICS Summit. Together BRICS has around 42% of the world's population, 27% of global GDP and around 20% of international trade.
It is our third time hosting this important event as a country and South Africa is privileged to be the chair of BRICS this year.
Our theme is "BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development, and Inclusive Multilateralism." This theme reflects our vision of BRICS providing global leadership in addressing the needs and concerns of the majority of the world, namely beneficial economic growth, sustainable development and inclusion of the global South in multilateral systems.
This theme also reflects our belief in the benefits a partnership with Africa can bring to BRICS, with our partners eager to explore opportunities to support, and benefit from, operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Since January 2023, we have held a large number of meetings across all three pillars of cooperation, namely:
1. Political and security,
2. Economic and financial; and
3. Social and people-to-people cooperation.
GCIS has supported various Ministerial meetings held to precede BRICS across all provinces. Our Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni hosted a Friends of BRICS National Security Advisors Meeting with her BRICS Security counterparts, in Sandton, on 24 July 2023.
The Friends of BRICS is a combination of countries who have expressed an interest in joining BRICS, those who chair prominent institutions of the Global South and those invited as per the Chair’s prerogative and henceforth invited as per the consensus reached between the host and fellow BRICS members. The Friends of BRICS countries who attended this meeting are Belarus, Burundi, Cuba, Egypt, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Various other meetings took place headed by various Ministers such as the BRICS Foreign Ministers, the BRICS Civil Forum, BRICS Ministers of Communication, the BRICS Youth Forum, the BRICS Urbanisation, BRICS Ministers of Health, and BRICS Ministers of Science and Innovation have all concluded their meetings.
Cabinet has encouraged BRICS meetings to be held in different towns and cities so that our guests have a wide range of experience of our beautiful country. It is also important that the tangible economic benefits of hosting our BRICS partners are experienced in a variety of communities.
All these activities build up to the XVth BRICS Summit which will provide an opportunity for BRICS Leaders to reflect on all the elements of BRICS cooperation. The XVth BRICS Summit will also provide an opportunity to amplify the voices of our friends in Africa and the global South with the BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogues.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed South Africa’s readiness to host the XVth BRICS Summit in Sandton, Johannesburg and we are running a countdown to hype the upcoming activities of the Summit. South Africa Chairs BRICS in a dynamic global environment where the eyes of the world are on us.
Leading up to the Summit, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and the BRICS Business Council will be hosting a content-rich BRICS Business Programme from 19 to 23 August which seeks to foster economic growth, promote collaboration, attract investment, and showcase opportunities within South Africa, Africa and BRICS countries.
All the BRICS Business Councils are bringing large business delegations to South Africa. As an outcome of South Africa's Chairing of BRICS in 2013, the BRICS Business Council celebrates its 10th Anniversary in 2023 and we look forward to the celebrations as well as the outcomes of the review of the work of the Council in its first ten years.
The BRICS Summit programme
The first event on the BRICS Leaders' programme is the BRICS Business Forum Leaders Dialogue on the afternoon of Tuesday 22 August. The Leaders will get a report on the outcomes of the deliberations during the BRICS Business Forum and will deliver statements reflecting on BRICS economic relations.
Following the Business Forum, the Leaders move to a quieter venue for the BRICS Leaders Retreat. This is a signature event of South Africa as BRICS Chair. Leaders meet in a comfortable setting in a private venue for an unscripted discussion of contemporary issues of importance. There is no set agenda and Leaders can initiate a discussion on issues of choice such as BRICS membership expansion, reform of global governance, or use of local currencies.
On 23 August, the XVth BRICS Summit continues with a closed plenary followed by an open plenary session.
The BRICS Leaders will deliver national statements which will be followed by reports by the President of the New Development Bank, the South African Chair of the BRICS Business Council and the South African Chair of the BRICS Women's Business Alliance.
It is befitting during Women’s month to re-emphasise my focus on the BRICS Women's Business (WBA) Alliance. This will be the first in-person engagement with BRICS Leaders as it was established in 2020 under the Chairship of Russia during the height of the pandemic. This Alliance aims to empower and advance women entrepreneurs in BRICS to create a vibrant network in partnership with others that facilitates knowledge-sharing, skills development, and business opportunities for women across diverse sectors and industries.
Their flagship meeting is the BRICS-Africa WBA Trade Conference to be held in Durban from 20 to 21 August which brings together over 500 women-owned businesses, including micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, from BRICS and Africa. The conference will include the first in-person joint meeting of BRICS WBA national chapters and develop recommendations to be presented to BRICS Leaders at the Summit.
Following the reports from the New Development Bank, BRICS Business Council and the BRICS Women's Business Alliance, the Summit is expected to adopt the eGoli Declaration as the main outcome document of the 2023 BRICS Leaders’ Summit.
South Africa is also pleased to welcome the first meeting of Ministers responsible for Women Affairs as an important step in mainstreaming women's issues across all areas of BRICS cooperation.
This is also a concrete step forward in addressing the needs of vulnerable groups. As a partnership, BRICS operates on the principles of openness, solidarity, mutual respect and understanding as well as mutually beneficial cooperation that is seen to deliver tangible benefits.
The XVth BRICS Summit is the venue and occasion for the voices of BRICS, Africa and the global South to converge and be heard. We meet to reflect on the status of cooperation, to consider regional and global developments and to assess the status of global governance reform.
The Summit is not the final event of South Africa as Chair of BRICS. We continue our programme of mutually beneficial cooperation until the end of 2023.
We look forward to further meetings including the Ministers for Disaster Management, Ministers of Tourism, possible Ministers of Transport meeting, the BRICS Parliamentary Forum, the Foreign Policy Dialogue, Young Diplomats and the first workshop on incident management later in the year. We particularly look forward to the return of the BRICS Games in October.
We are confident that we will leave 2023 having strengthened the BRICS partnership and having delivered benefits to the people of South Africa, BRICS, Africa and the global South.
Government calls on South Africans to continue to extend the warmest of South African welcomes to the many official delegates, businesspeople, media and civil society who will arrive from various parts of the continent and the world shortly for the Summit.
*Michael Currin is the Deputy Director-General of Intergovernmental Coordination and Stakeholder Management (ICSM) at Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).
Janine
Tue, 08/15/2023 - 09:39
Held this year under the theme of ‘Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World’, globally trusted infrastructure consulting firm AECOM is celebrating International Youth Day on Saturday 12 August by showcasing the important role played by some of its young candidate engineers in sustainable transport. Document Downloads. Chris Britz, Transport Operations Leader and Market …