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SA Masters Surfing Championships Heads to Victoria Bay Victoria Bay – The 2024 SA Masters Surfing Championships will take place this weekend in Victoria Bay. With five full days of surfing ahead, it will be an exciting weekend of surfing. The best masters surfers in the country will be surfing in the following divisions: Men’s: Over 35, …
Atlanta Phambili – “forward” in Zulu and Xhosa – is a subnational diplomacy initiative which seeks to deepen bilateral ties between the United States and South Africa through City of Atlanta's educational and research institutions, Diaspora connections, creatives industry, and economic dynamism. The initiative is a joint effort by the U.S. Mission in South Africa and the government of South Africa.
In March 2024, the U.S. Mission launched Atlanta Phambili with a four-day trade and investment-focused roadshow in Atlanta co-hosted by Prosper Africa. The roadshow included events hosted in partnership with Spelman College, Georgia Tech, the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, among others. The delegation had the opportunity to meet with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and civil rights icon Ambassador Andrew Young. The South African delegation included senior business executives and government officials. The U.S. government delegation included U.S. Ambassador to South Africa Reuben E. Brigety, Prosper Africa Coordinator British Robinson, USAID Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman, United States Export-Import Bank Chair Reta Jo Lewis, and United States Trade and Development Agency Director Enoh Ebong. During the Georgia Tech Hosted Atlanta Phambili Trade & Innovation Forum on March 27, USAID Deputy Administrator Coleman announced the launch of the Africa Trade Desk, an exciting new program to connect African products with large U.S. retailer buyers.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of U.S. Embassy & Consulates in South Africa.
Event management has evolved significantly over the years, becoming a sophisticated blend of creativity, technology, and meticulous planning. At the forefront of this evolution is a pioneer in turning ordinary events into extraordinary experiences. The Art of Event Management Event management is more than just coordinating logistics; it’s about creating unforgettable experiences. Experts in …
Prize-Winning Pastry Chef Celebrates Social Change With Coffee-Inspired Creations. Johannesburg, August, 2024 – This Women’s Month in South Africa, Nespresso ZA is partnering with rising culinary star MOTHEBA MAKETHA to integrate Nespresso coffee into culinary experiences within the South African context while highlighting the exceptional talent of women in the culinary sector. Currently the pastry …
After an impressive third-place finish at the Totalsports Women’s Race in Cape Town on National Women’s Day (Friday, 9 August 2024), where she competed against the exceptional Christine Njoki (Kenya) and Tadu Nare (Ethiopia), South Africa’s national record holder Glenrose Xaba is more determined than ever to seize gold at the final event of the …
The Real Success Network is thrilled to bring Real Success South Africa to Johannesburg; an event which is guaranteed to inspire and ignite. Brian Walsh, Founder and Chief Visionary of The Real Success Network, explains that the event brings together the cream of international speakers, along with leaders from the local speaking circuit. Each has …
Government activities for the week 12- 16 August 2024
On Monday, 12 August, Minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi engages with Limpopo stakeholders on the National Health Insurance.
Also on Monday, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation will host a media briefing to update the public on the Minister’s programme and other topical issues related to international relations and cooperation.
Tuesday, 13 August, no confirmed events.
On Wednesday, 14 August, the Electoral Commission holds six municipal ward by-elections in the Eastern Cape and Limpopo.
On Thursday, 15 August, Gender Equality launches reports on Women’s Access to Land and State of Health Care in the Eastern Cape.
Friday, 16 August, no confirmed events.
Neo
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 11:13
Peanut butter is a beloved staple in many households, known for its creamy texture, rich flavour, and versatility in the kitchen. From satisfying snacks to gourmet dishes, peanut butter offers endless possibilities. The Essence of Peanut Butter: A Culinary Delight Peanut butter’s popularity is no surprise, given its delicious taste and nutritional benefits. It …
Introduction In the quest for durable, cost-effective, and versatile products, plastic items such as chairs, wheelie bins, and outdoor furniture have become staples in both homes and businesses. This guide explores the world of plastic products, focusing on their benefits, applications, and tips for selecting the right type for your needs. Understanding the Appeal …
Money Smart Week to commence on 26 August
South Africa’s 2024 Money Smart Week SA (MSWSA) is expected to kick off on 26 August and run until 1 September.
This is according to Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who addressed a post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday.
She said the week will feature “various consumer-focused financial education programmes and initiatives”.
“MSWSA is an initiative of the National Consumer Financial Education Committee (NCFEC) to motivate, empower and educate South Africans and contribute to a more financially literate citizenry. Activities during the campaign will include free workshops, presentations, mall activations, exhibitions and webinars,” she said.
In July, the National Treasury called for organisations and individuals to be part of MSWSA.
READ | Call to participate in Money Smart Week
“The key objective of the MSWSA is to provide a national collaborative platform and mobilise a wide range of stakeholders to motivate, empower and educate South Africans and contribute to a more financially literate citizenry.
“Participation in MSWSA is open to any organisation or individual, including academic institutions, government departments, regulatory authorities, financial institutions, community groups, companies, Non-Governmental Organisations and Public Benefit Organisations.
“Interested participants are invited to organise their own financial education initiatives and events to host during the week-long campaign,” National Treasury said in a statement.
The online registration process is open for participants to submit a participation application form by no later than 16 August 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 12:22
It’s that time of year again… time to bring your running shoes out of Winter retirement! Clearwater Mall, in partnership with the Panorama Running Club, is hosting their 10th Annual 10km Race & 5km Fun Run, set to take place on Saturday, 24 August 2024. This event promises to be a memorable day for families …
President Cyril Ramaphosa will tomorrow, Friday, 9 August 2024, officiate the National Women's Day Commemoration hosted by the Khâi-Ma Municipality at Pofadder in Namakwa District of the Northern Cape.
The President will address the national commemoration of Women's Day under the theme "Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom Towards Women's Development" at the Denis Nel Stadium in Pofadder.
The national event marks 68 years to the day since 20 000 women of diverse backgrounds from across South Africa marched to the Union Buildings to protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women.
During 30 years of democracy, South Africa has made significant strides in advancing gender equality in all domains of society, including economic empowerment of women.
The Women's Charter advances women's economic programmes through targeted reforms that drive equality.
Women's Day 2024 is the first national day led by the Government of National Unity and takes place in a rural community as part of including all South Africans in national events and placing a focus on the achievements and needs of women in all corners of the country.
President Ramaphosa will ahead of leading the commemoration at the Denis Nel Stadium tour a services-on-wheels exhibition of government services that will be provided to citizens attending the national day, as well as a trade expo featuring, small medium and micro enterprises led by women entrepreneurs in the Northern Cape Province.
Details of the National Women's Day Commemoration are:
Date: Friday, 09 August 2024
Time: 10:00
Venue: Dennis Nel Stadium,Poffader, Northern Cape
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
Cabinet congratulates Justice Maya on her appointment as Chief Justice
As the country celebrates Women’s Month, Cabinet has congratulated Justice Mandisa Maya on her trail blazing appointment as South Africa’s first female incoming Chief Justice.
Maya, the first South African woman to lead the Constitutional Court, was appointed as Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa with effect from 1 September 2024 by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Maya previously served with distinction as the President of the Supreme Court of Appeal since 2017 and was the first woman to hold that position.
Briefing the media on the outcomes of the ordinary Cabinet meeting on Thursday, Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said the significance of Maya’s appointment can be best understood with context.
“According to the International Association of Women Judges, in 1994, there were approximately 165 judges, 160 of whom were white men, three were black men, and two were white women; no black women were judges at that time.
“As of February 2023, there are 253 judges, comprised of which 113 are women, broken down to 32% black women plus 13% white women making up a total of 45% women representation. Additionally, the remaining 140 male judges are comprised of 39% black men and 17% white men,” Ntshavheni said.
READ | CGE congratulates Justice Maya on appointment as Chief Justice
Call to participate in Women’s Month activities
Meanwhile, Cabinet has invited citizens to take part in events planned to take place in various parts of the country in celebration of the annual Women’s Month.
READ | Chikunga reflects on 30 Years of Democracy as Women's Month gets underway
Ntshavheni said the events also include a trade expo, interactive dialogues and showcase opportunities available for women in diverse sectors that are instrumental in narrowing gender disparities.
South Africa will commemorate the 2024 National Women’s Day tomorrow at the Dennis Nel Stadium in Poffader in the Northern Cape under the theme: “Celebrating 30 years of democracy towards Women’s Development”.
“This year’s celebration of Women’s Month will take stock of progress made on socio-economic empowerment of women since the advent of democracy and the achievements of the objectives of the Women’s Charter.
“Our nation pays tribute to the more than 20 000 women who marched to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956, in protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women,” Ntshavheni said.
READ | President Ramaphosa to address Women’s Day commemoration
– SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 14:08
When the 27th edition of Africa Tech Festival (https://AfricaTechFestival.com) kicks off on 12 November at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in South Africa, the spotlight will be on the exceptional women shaping the future of technology and telecoms in Africa. With August marking the celebration of Women's Month in the host country, the event will proudly showcase many of the women leaders driving growth and innovation across the sector.
Taking place from 12 to 14 November, Africa Tech Festival 2024 incorporates AfricaCom, AfricaTech, AfricaIgnite, and The AI Summit Cape Town, which will welcome a cumulative 15,000 visitors, more than 400 speakers, and over 300 exhibitors as it explores enterprise tech innovation and disruption across key sectors such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud and data centres, and green ICT.
As the continent's leading platform for technology innovators, specialists, and thought leaders, Africa Tech Festival 2024's agenda includes several prominent female leaders who are making a significant contribution to the industry. Their expertise and insights will provide invaluable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities within the sector.
Key speakers include:
“Africa Tech Festival provides the continent's tech ecosystems with a unique platform from which to collaborate and drive positive change. Building a more inclusive, sustainable world means uniting the world's most inspirational founders, business leaders, policymakers, investors, and rising stars, so we are delighted to see so many inspirational female tech executives featured in this year's speaker line-up. As we celebrate Women's Month, we look forward to their unique insights and contributions,” said Informa's James Williams, Event Director of Africa Tech Festival.
Organisers are confident that the presence of these female industry leaders at Africa Tech Festival will provide impetus to efforts by the industry to be more inclusive, highlighting the opportunities available to women in various sectors, providing insights for women wishing to embark on tech and telecoms careers, and showcasing the successes and contributions of women making their mark within the industry.
“Events such as Africa Tech Festival provide a platform for women to network and to gain exposure to more accomplished women in tech. These role models provide inspiration to women starting out in their careers that they can break the glass ceiling,” said Funke Opeke, CEO, MainOne, who will be participating in the ‘Big Tech and Telcos: Collaborating on Digital Infrastructure Investment' keynote panel.
Speaking on the importance of mentorship for women entering the industry, Mary Mahuma, CIO, Southern Africa, Philip Morris said, “As a female industry leader, I see mentorship as a necessary reminder of our social responsibility to be empathetic, driven, inclusive, and resilient leaders. I am fortunate to have a female mentor who has significantly influenced my leadership style, thinking, and understanding of corporate dynamics and culture.” Mary will be a panellist on the ‘Nurturing Talent and Bridging Skills Gap: Building a Future-Ready Workforce in the Age of AI' panel.
“Women's contributions are significantly transforming the telecoms and technology landscape in Africa through innovation, leadership, and advocacy. Their contributions are not only advancing the industry but also driving social and economic development across the continent. By fostering innovation, supporting entrepreneurship, and advocating for inclusive policies, these women are transforming the tech landscape in Africa,” added Motunrayo Opayinka, Founder and CEO, Womenovate. Motunrayo will share her insights on the ‘Educational Equity Through AI: Tools for Advancing Education in Underserved Areas' panel.
In addition, EQL:LOUNGE creates a space for women in tech to connect directly, and engage in meaningful dialogue, with high-calibre speakers in intimate settings hosting panel discussions, keynote addresses, and fireside chats. Taking place the evening before the event opens, InspiringFifty Africa is a prestigious awards ceremony focusing on recognising the top fifty women making significant strides within the African tech ecosystem.
Register now to secure your spot and join us in shaping the future of technology in Africa: https://AfricaTechFestival.com
In a special Women's Day offer, Africa Tech Festival is offering a 15% discount on Platinum Passes until midnight on 16 August. Passes can be purchased via this link, using the code NWD15 - https://apo-opa.co/3SAYyFh
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Tech Festival.
About Africa Tech Festival:
Africa Tech Festival, including anchor events AfricaCom, AfricaTech, AfricaIgnite & The AI Summit Cape Town is part of the Informa Tech Connecting Africa event series.
A vibrant celebration of Africa's diverse community of tech champions, Africa Tech Festival is the largest tech and digital connectivity conference and exhibition in Africa, attracting hundreds of exhibitors, more than 400 speakers and more than 15,000 delegates.
In event management, creating memorable and immersive experiences is paramount. One technique that has revolutionised the way events are orchestrated is projection mapping. This innovative technology transforms ordinary surfaces into dynamic displays, captivating audiences and elevating the overall event atmosphere. Understanding Projection Mapping Projection mapping, also known as spatial augmented reality, involves projecting images, …
Izimbizo an opportunity to ensure all understand how GNU is working for them
The Presidential District Development Model (DDM) Izimbizo are a priority for the seventh administration, as President Cyril Ramaphosa has identified local government as a priority focus area of the Government of National Unity.
This is according to Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya, who briefed media at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Wednesday on the President’s engagement diary.
He said government has an obligation to interact and communicate with citizens in all corners of the country.
“With the Government of National Unity, this has become more urgent so that all citizens can understand how the new administration is working for them,” he said.
The Presidential DDM Izimbizo have been held since 2019 after President Ramaphosa indicated that he would like to visit South Africa’s 44 district municipalities and eight metropolitan municipalities.
Magwenya said the Izimbizo – which are attended by all Cabinet members – affords ordinary citizens a platform to voice their challenges and to hear from those that lead government on a national, provincial and local level.
“The Izimbizo is more than just a feel-good or gig for the President and the Cabinet. It is about identifying a district in conjunction with the provincial governments. Once a district has been identified, the various spheres of government come together, different workstreams are established to drive the process that is coordinated by the political champion.
“A few days before the actual Imbizo, Ministers and Deputy Ministers are deployed to the district to inspect their respective programmes. New projects are identified. On the day of the Imbizo, the President is accompanied by the Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Premiers, Members of provincial governments, Mayors and Councillors and the community engages them. It does get heated at times and emotional,” Magwenya said.
He highlighted that public participation in the country has been a hallmark of South African culture since the dawn of democracy 30 years ago.
“Public participation is intrinsically part of the DNA of the democratic South Africa. To be exact, it was initiated by the Constitutional Assembly in 1994 to consult and keep South Africans abreast of the Constitution writing process.
“It is against this background that the President can assert that the Presidential Izimbizo and the public participation programmes are not political gimmicks of the current and previous administrations.
“Neither is it an extravagant exercise and wasteful expenditure of taxpayers’ money. But it is a caring government which is engaging its citizens across the political divide.
“It started in 1994 and it is entrenched in the South African public discourse. It has evolved from former President’s to today’s public participation programme of the Presidential Izimbizo under the banner of the [DDM],” he said.
At the briefing Magwenya hit back at critics of the izimbizo. This after recent reports claimed that government had spent at least R44 million on hosting four Izimbizo over the past 18 months.
While he conceded that hosting an Imbizo could be costly at times “all the officials involved must ensure that procurement processes are conducted within the prescripts of the Public Finance Management Act”.
“Yes, critics will point out the high cost of DDMs and they will motivate how the money could have been utilised elsewhere. Indeed, one cannot quantify the impact of the Presidential Izimbizo in monetary terms, but it should be measured over the medium to long-term of what changes such events will bring to communities.
“It is mischievous to reduce the Presidential Izimbizo to Rands and Cents. It is about a caring government that is closer to the people, ensuring their right to access to basic services is solidified.” – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 08/07/2024 - 14:38
As the National Arts Festival celebrated its 50th anniversary this year, one of the most lauded facets of the Festival was the deep diversity of the Curated Programme and its ongoing ability to reflect the creative zeitgeist of the nation. The Curated Programme is selected by the Festival’s Artistic Committee, led by the Artistic Director, […]
Johannesburg, South Africa – 06 August 2024 – Hidden Xhosa, also known as Luyolo Beku, released his new single “Xelel’ilizwe” featuring Nue Sam on Friday, August 2, 2024. This marks a significant milestone in Beku’s career, as he transitions from a behind-the-scenes figure to taking center stage as a solo artist. “Xelel’ilizwe,” which translates to […]
On Thursday, 11 July 2024, K’li Scott and Claudia Garella of the Treverton Equestrian Centre embarked on an equestrian journey to Windhoek, Namibia. Both representing South Africa, K’li as a rider on two horses in the South African Adult Shield Team, and Claudia Garella as the Chef d’equipe of the South African Adult & Junior …
August marks Women’s Month in South Africa, a time to celebrate the incredible contributions of all women in society and reflect on their ongoing journey towards gender equality. This special month is an opportunity for businesses, communities, and individuals to honor the women who drive change and progress in the workplace. At Isilumko Staffing, we …
Government has congratulated Dr John Kani, South Africa’s veteran actor, director and playwright, after His Majesty King Charles III honoured him with the esteemed Order of the British Empire (OBE). Kani’s award for “services to drama” acknowledges his extraordinary contributions to the arts in South Africa and internationally. “The government and the people of South […]
Get ready to indulge in all things beauty at the Made for Beauty fair! From skincare to makeup, haircare to fragrances, our tenants in the beauty category are showcasing their finest products. Whether you’re a beauty enthusiast or just looking to pamper yourself, this event is not to be missed. Dates: Wednesday, 7 August until …
Mhlongo raring to shine at the Paris 2024 Paralympics
by Sihle Manda
When South African athletes enter the Place de la Concorde in Paris on 28 August for the Paris 2024 Paralympics, the country’s hopes will be hoisted high by flag-bearers, sprinter Mpumelelo Mhlongo and swimmer Katherine Swanepoel.
The two will be among the country’s medal hopefuls as South Africa tries to improve on the seven medals won at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics.
Four years ago, Mhlongo broke the T44 200m world record and set the T44 200m, 100m, and long jump Paralympic Games records.
Reacting to the honour of flag-bearer, he said: “My immediate reaction was the thought that I was being held as the butt of a joke. When I finally faced the reality of the honour, I was flabbergasted.”
He thought there were many deserving individuals to carry the country's flag, adding that he had been extremely grateful as it was something he had experienced at last year's Paris World Para Athletic Championships.
“To do it at the Paris 2024 Paralympics is madness,” he said.
He conceded that the honour had little bearing for him as a professional. “It is an honour that successfully challenges the [human] skeptic in me, that does not dare to dream of a future beyond its circumstances.”
On his personal ambitions, he said representing the country was an overwhelming feeling that needed to be experienced.
“Pride and gratitude are words that do not give the meaning, or the justice it deserves. I think no matter how many words you string together, even the imagination has its limitations which is where experience steps in,” he added.
The sprinter said he was excited for Games that are not held under pandemic lockdown conditions.
“I am looking forward to the Olympic and Paralympic athletes reminding its community how important they are and the joy we get in experiencing these global events with them,” he said.
The Chatsworth-born athlete said while he had set himself targets for Paris 2024, his biggest target was to get to the games in a healthy condition.
Chatsworth is in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
“We even have targets for the sort of sleep and recovery we want to see daily. The most important target though, is getting to the Games healthy because we have done everything we can in our preparations to be the best versions of ourselves when it matters.
“Once you are at the Games, you have to intentionally remember to go out there and have fun, just celebrate the opportunity to represent our country and everyone who has reminded us that our story has value just as others,” he concluded.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Tue, 08/06/2024 - 12:26
Esports, once dismissed as a frivolous pastime, has evolved into a dynamic intersection of entertainment, technology, and education. This transformation is not only reshaping perceptions but also providing significant benefits across educational levels. From primary schools to universities, esports offer a unique blend of engagement and learning, preparing learners to be future ready in the …