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You are here: Home / Archives for Events

Events

16 May 2024

Event Info: Bridgerton Series Season 3: Viewers’ Acceptance and Comments

Location: Entertainment

Hey there, Bridgerton fans! The highly anticipated Season 3 of the hit series is finally here, and viewers are buzzing with excitement. In this article, we’ll dive into the viewers’ acceptance of the new season and explore some of the comments that have been circulating. Viewership Expectations: When it comes to viewership, Bridgerton Season 3 […]

Read moreEvent Info: Bridgerton Series Season 3: Viewers’ Acceptance and Comments
16 May 2024

Event Info: The On-Screen Chemistry of Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton in Bridgerton

Location: Entertainment, Uncategorised

Hey there, fellow Bridgerton fans! Today, we’re diving into the captivating on-screen relationship between Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton. As we all know, Bridgerton has taken the world by storm with its enchanting storyline and talented cast. But it’s the undeniable chemistry between Nicola and Luke that has truly stolen our hearts. From the moment […]

Read moreEvent Info: The On-Screen Chemistry of Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton in Bridgerton
16 May 2024

Event Info: Fundraising Efforts by NSRI Station 6 in Gqeberha

Location: Entertainment

Let’s shine a light on the incredible fundraising efforts by the NSRI Station 6 in Gqeberha. These everyday heroes work tirelessly to keep our shores safe, and they need our support to continue their vital work saving those in peril on the sea. One of the highlights of their fundraising activities are their the annual […]

Read moreEvent Info: Fundraising Efforts by NSRI Station 6 in Gqeberha
15 May 2024

KZN welcomes delegates to Africa’s Travel Indaba

Location: News

KZN welcomes delegates to Africa’s Travel Indaba

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has welcomed delegates participating in the Africa's Travel Indaba, which is currently underway at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in eThekwini.

Taking place from 13 - 16 May 2024, Africa’s Travel Indaba is an iconic African leisure trade show, owned by South African Tourism, with the specific objective of creating market access for the country’s vast array of African leisure tourism products.

Welcoming the delegates at the official opening of Africa's Travel Indaba on Tuesday, Dube-Ncube said the trade show provides the ideal platform for African tourism exhibitors to showcase their offerings to international and local buyers, destination marketing companies and leisure tourism services partners. 

“It is the most formidable platform on the continent for you to meet face-to-face with the most influential buyers in the world, and to gain access to Africa’s excellence and its endless possibilities. These are the business opportunities and quality connections that will shape Africa’s tomorrow,” Dube-Ncube said.

READ | KZN tourism entrepreneurs set to showcase province’s rich culture at Indaba

The Premier noted that this year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba takes place at a time when South Africa is celebrating 30 years since the dawn of democracy, which ushered in a new era and assured our standing in the family of other nations.

“This milestone makes all of us gush with pride as South Africans when we consider the journey that we have travelled in moulding the country of our dreams. Today, we speak of a tourism industry that can hold its own at a global level because of our country's achievements,” Dube-Ncube said.

IMAGES | 2024 Africa's Travel Indaba

2024 Africa's Travel Indaba. 2024 Africa's Travel Indaba. 2024 Africa's Travel Indaba.

As the tourism industry shows green shoots globally, she said one of the key sub-sectors the province wants to aggressively focus on is Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE). 

MICE make up a big part of global business travel since every industry has regular events of some kind. The main goal is always to bring professionals together, foster connections, promote new ideas, and push growth. 

“As a province, we will be at the forefront of ensuring that KwaZulu-Natal gets the lion’s share of the tourism market.  As we all know, one of the biggest trends in the tourism environment is the blending of leisure tourism and business, known as 'Bleisure Travel' [blending of business and leisure travel]. 

“We would like to thank all of you for your continued support of Africa’s Travel Indaba. Indeed, Africa has limitless possibilities, and we must seize the opportunity to ensure that Africa’s time is now,” Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 05/15/2024 - 13:28

365 views
Read moreKZN welcomes delegates to Africa’s Travel Indaba
15 May 2024

Reflecting on two years of innovation at @Sandton Hotel

Location: MyPR

Sandton, Johannesburg – 9 May 2024: The prestigious @Sandton Hotel celebrates a remarkable milestone – two years of leadership marked by innovation, resilience, and exceptional hospitality. In the wake of a global pandemic, General Manager, Anthony Batistich, spearheaded the hotel’s journey, steering it towards unparalleled success in the heart of Sandton. Two years ago, Anthony …

Read moreReflecting on two years of innovation at @Sandton Hotel
15 May 2024

Event Info: The Gathering Channel 4: A Gripping Drama Unveiling the Dark Secrets of a Merseyside Community

Location: Entertainment

The Gathering Channel 4 is a thrilling drama series that delves into the lives of two athletes from different backgrounds, intertwining their stories in a web of mystery and suspense. Created by Helen Walsh, this British television series has captivated audiences with its intense plot and compelling characters. Set in a Merseyside community, The Gathering […]

Read moreEvent Info: The Gathering Channel 4: A Gripping Drama Unveiling the Dark Secrets of a Merseyside Community
14 May 2024

African Property Investment awards 2024 now open

Location: MyPR

Celebrating excellence in African real estate, including South Africa: enter now! Johannesburg, 13 May 2024 – The 8th annual African Property Investment Awards (API Awards) are now open for entries. This prestigious platform recognises excellence in the African real estate industry. This year, for the first time, the #APIawards will be open to entries from …

Read moreAfrican Property Investment awards 2024 now open
14 May 2024

Event Info: How to Spot False Information During Elections

Location: Entertainment

In today’s digital age, the spread of false information has become a significant concern, especially during elections. The dissemination of misleading or fabricated news can have a detrimental impact on the democratic process and the public’s trust in the electoral system. Therefore, it is crucial for voters to be vigilant and equipped with the necessary […]

Read moreEvent Info: How to Spot False Information During Elections
14 May 2024

Nzimande committed to work with Forth Hare University Council

Location: News

Nzimande committed to work with Forth Hare University Council

Higher Education and Training Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, has reiterated his commitment to working with the Council of the University of Fort Hare and all key university stakeholders to ensure clean governance at the university. 

This comes after Nzimande held a special meeting with the Council of the University of Fort Hare.

The meeting, which was held last Friday, forms part of Nzimande’s continued interventions to ensure stability and clean governance at the University of Fort Hare.

The purpose of the meeting was for the Council to provide the Minister with a progress update on specific governance issues and the disturbing recent events, including the arrest of senior university employees, with some employed in the Vice Chancellor's office.

Reporting on the outcome of the meeting, the department disputed media reports suggesting that Nzimande’s meeting with the university council collapsed.

According to a statement issued by the department, some members of the Council had initially expressed concern that a detailed agenda was not distributed before the meeting. 

However, after a brief break that was mutually agreed to, the meeting continued and the Minister then tabled his set of concerns about the recent developments at the university.

Nzimande also indicated that he would like the Council, as the highest decision-making body, to respond to the concerns raised.

“After tabling his concerns, it was agreed that the Council will not respond immediately to the issues raised by the Minister and that the Minister will communicate his list of concerns to the Council, in writing.

“The Minister's concerns will form the basis for the next meeting with the Council, which will be a physical meeting, to be convened by the department within several days,” the department explained.

The department said Nzimande is pleased with the outcome of the meeting and remains committed to working with the Council and all university’s key stakeholders to ensure that clean governance is restored, and that the proud history of the university is protected. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 05/14/2024 - 10:12

157 views
Read moreNzimande committed to work with Forth Hare University Council
14 May 2024

Event Info: Franz Fendt – a Multi-Talented Performer

Location: Entertainment

Franz Fendt, a performer with more talents than you can shake a stick at. Lets take a closer look at his life, achievements, and the incredible impact he’s made on the entertainment scene. From his mind-blowing skills to his unforgettable performances, Franz Fendt has truly left his mark. Let’s start at the beginning. Franz Fendt […]

Read moreEvent Info: Franz Fendt – a Multi-Talented Performer
13 May 2024

When Conversations and Creativity Collide: SA Podcast & Music Festival to Unleash Media Powerhouses

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

Get ready for an electrifying celebration at the SA Podcast & Music Festival, where industry titans in podcasting and music are set to converge under one dynamic roof. Hosted during South Africa’s vibrant Youth Month on June 14th and 15th, this festival promises an unforgettable experience for aspiring and established podcasters alike. The festival lineup …

Read moreWhen Conversations and Creativity Collide: SA Podcast & Music Festival to Unleash Media Powerhouses
13 May 2024

MDDA partners with media for elections training

Location: News

MDDA partners with media for elections training

In preparation for the 2024 National Elections, the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) has collaborated with the Electoral Commission (IEC) for the past year to implement a training programme for the community media sector to improve their coverage of the elections.

Through this partnership, the sector has been taken through the legislative amendments (Electoral Act), the Electoral Code of Conduct, prohibited conduct and applicable penalties, and free and fair elections.   

“For the first time since the first democratic elections in 1994, voters will have a wider range of options in terms of the individuals or political parties they want to elect for the National and Provincial Elections.

“As a result of amendments to legislation governing elections, voters will only be able to vote anywhere after notifying the IEC of the intent to such. Failing such notification, voters will only vote where they are registered,” the MDDA said on Monday.

Furthermore, voters will be faced with three ballots instead of the two as was done in previous elections. Independents may now contest National and Provincial Elections.

“Elections are a critical part of democracy. They give power to voters to choose their leaders and hold them answerable for their performance and level of service in office. Further, elections enable people through voting the opportunity to express their views on current issues as well as their frustrations towards leaders who may be failing them.

“However, to vote efficiently and choose a party or leadership that will enable the fulfilment of an equitable society, voters need to know where candidates and parties stand on public policy issues,” MDDA Chief Executive Officer Shoeshoe Qhu said.

With only three weeks left until Elections Day, the Agency is hosting its final leg of the elections capacity-building programme.

They will be conducting elections readiness sessions starting on 17th of May with an online session focusing on IEC legislative amendments and announcements, followed by a roundtable discussion on the 20th May 2024 unpacking the importance of safety on election day, the role of the church in politics and the impact of political party messaging.

The series of events will end with a full day workshop on focusing on fact checking, verification and the impact of generative AI on journalistic content training session on 22 May 2024.

The elections will take place on Wednesday, 29 May 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

nosihle
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 10:46

393 views
Read moreMDDA partners with media for elections training
13 May 2024

Keeping It Cool: Stubby Holders in Promotional Gifting

Location: MyPR

In the sun-soaked climates of Australia, keeping beverages cold is almost a national pastime. This is where custom stubby holders step into the spotlight, offering a functional and fun way to keep drinks chilled while also serving as a powerful promotional tool. Let’s dive into why stubby holders are a fantastic choice for any promotional …

Read moreKeeping It Cool: Stubby Holders in Promotional Gifting
13 May 2024

Stand Out in Any Weather: The Power of Promotional Umbrellas

Location: MyPR

In Australia’s unpredictable climate, umbrellas are more than just a shield against the rain—they’re a versatile promotional tool that can boost brand visibility in any season. From sunny days to stormy afternoons, custom umbrellas offer an opportunity for brands to shine. Let’s explore why umbrellas are an essential part of any promotional strategy.   Why …

Read moreStand Out in Any Weather: The Power of Promotional Umbrellas
13 May 2024

Safeguard and Promote: The Bright Side of Promotional Sunscreen

Location: MyPR

In the sun-drenched landscapes of Australia, sunscreen isn’t just a seasonal accessory; it’s an essential part of everyday life. This makes custom sunscreen an ideal promotional product. Offering sunscreen as a corporate gift not only shows care for the recipient’s health but also provides a platform for effective brand exposure. Let’s dive into why sunscreen …

Read moreSafeguard and Promote: The Bright Side of Promotional Sunscreen
13 May 2024

United Nation Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety to launch global road safety campaign in South Africa

Location: News

United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)
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The United Nations Secretary-General's Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, will visit South Africa from 13 to 15 May 2024 to support national and local authorities' road safety initiatives. In particular, the Special Envoy will launch the UN Global Campaign for Road Safety, in partnership with the No.1 outdoor advertising company worldwide, JCDecaux, under the hashtag #MakeASafetyStatement.  

One of the main goals of this campaign is to raise awareness of life-saving actions among young generations, who as statistics show, are the major victims of road crashes especially for young people aged from 5 to 29 years old worldwide. Supporting the efforts of South Africa in addressing this issue is key in a country where more than 60% of the population is under 35 years old. 

The launch events are to be held in Johannesburg and Pretoria with the participation of the Minister of Transport of South Africa and the Executive Mayors of Tshwane and Johannesburg.   

Mr. Todt will meet members of the Government as well as representatives of the private and public sectors and NGOs to advocate for the effective implementation of the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, which aims to halve the number of road fatalities by 2030.  

"Africa is the continent most affected by road crashes. Knowing that these affect the youngest first, it is beyond the human tragedy, an economic devastation sacrificing or invalidating for life the active force of a country. While the vaccine to avoid this carnage on the road exists, I urgently call on everyone to use it," said the Special Envoy.

#MakeASafetyStatement 

Ten South African celebrities including Yvonne Chaka-Chaka, Bryoni Govender, Dr. Khumalo, Sello Maake Ka Ncube, Maduvha Madima, Leanne Manas, Dr. Moratwe Masima, Thokozani Ndaba, Gaisang Noge, and Caster Semenya, will join the campaign's worldwide ambassadors to encourage users to adopt simple but effective rules to keep their roads safe. 

“Human Factors contribute 88% to South African road fatalities and therefore the involvement of celebrities as role models for the Youth in the #MakeASafetyStatement campaign will contribute towards the reduction of accidents on our roads,” stressed Ms. Sindisiwe Lydia Chikunga, Minister of Transport of the Republic of South Africa. 

New alarming figures 

The Special Envoy's visit coincides with the recent release of the Global Status Report on Road Safety 2023 from the World Health Organization (WHO) on road safety, highlighting that Africa remains the region the most affected by this tragedy. 

According to the WHO report, the number of victims on African roads continues to grow with a mortality rate of 19/100,000 people, while in Europe, we observe a rate of 7 deaths/100,000 people. In South Africa, there are 25 deaths per 100,000 people.  

According to the World Bank (2026), the cost of road crashes represented 8.6% of South Africa's GDP in 2016.  The RTMC 2023 State of Road safety Report highlights for 2023 the rate of 2.74% of South Africa 's GDP.    

Reliable data for swift revitalization 

Recent bus accidents have highlighted the run-down state of Africa's vehicle fleet. Failure to comply with the Highway Code and to enforce penalties are also significant causes of accidents.  

Solutions to be implemented include adhering to the African Road Safety Charter and the United Nations Conventions on Road Safety, strengthening the health services that treat the injured and stepping up public awareness campaigns. Systematically collecting reliable data on road accidents and monitoring casualties is also a key element in reducing the number of victims. 

There is also a need to protect the most vulnerable road users, pedestrians, and cyclists, who are often the most disadvantaged and the youngest. Africa has the highest proportion of cyclist and pedestrian deaths, accounting for 44% of all road deaths.  

In South Africa, the efforts of the authorities are to be commended, with new initiatives such as the implementation of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences, the adoption of new technologies to enhance access to traffic licensing services (National Traffic Information System Online Services), the professionalization of the Traffic and Road Safety Officers Training through the National Framework Level 6 Qualification), Standardization and Harmonization of Traffic Law Enforcement and the development of a National Traffic Law Enforcement Code.   

Risk factors that are too often neglected 

Drink-driving, speeding, drowsiness, carelessness, non-use of seatbelts and helmets, negligence and non-compliance with the Highway Code are responsible for most road accidents in Africa. However, according to the WHO, more progress must be made regarding legislation and safety standards.   

Only six countries in the world have laws that comply with WHO best practices for all the risk factors - speeding, driving under the influence or distracted driving, use of UN-standard motorbike helmets, and use of seatbelts and child restraints. 

In South Africa, speeding in urban areas is high (60KM/h), and child restraint systems are not always available. At a time when the use of motorbikes is on the increase, particularly among young people, the wearing of seatbelts and quality helmets remains a real challenge, even though it could prevent many deaths and reduce the risk of serious injury by 69%.  

Recent data reveal that the majority of road crashes occur at night from Friday till Sunday with youth and pedestrians being the lead victims.   

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).

Read moreUnited Nation Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety to launch global road safety campaign in South Africa
13 May 2024

Keep Your Drink Cool: The Appeal of Stubby Holders for Promotional Gifting in Australia

Location: MyPR

In the realm of promotional items, the appeal of practicality meets personalization wonderfully in the form of stubby holders. These unique and functional items have carved out a special niche in the promotional gifting space in Australia. Ideal for events, corporate giveaways, and as marketing tools, stubby holders offer a blend of utility and visibility …

Read moreKeep Your Drink Cool: The Appeal of Stubby Holders for Promotional Gifting in Australia
13 May 2024

Riding the Wave: South Africa’s Financial Digital Revolution

Location: News
GITEX Africa

GITEX Africa 2024 (www.GITEXAfrica.com), the continent's largest tech and startup exhibition scheduled from 29-31 May in Marrakech, Morocco, emerges as a pivotal platform for exploring the intersections of digital transformation, financial inclusion, and economic empowerment. As South Africa's banking of finance sector takes center stage in this global dialogue, the event promises to be a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and growth.

In South Africa, digital transformation has become imperative across industries, and the financial sector is no exception. From the convenience of online banking to mobile payment solutions, banks are leveraging digital technologies to enhance efficiency, improve customer experience, and expand access to financial services.

With a growing youth population favoring digital banking, financial institutions are investing in user-friendly mobile apps and online platforms to meet evolving customer preferences.

Banks Face Competition from Fintech and Innovative Platforms

These digital banking platforms provide users with convenient access to a wide range of financial services, including account management, payments, and lending, all through intuitive user-friendly mobile and online interfaces.

However, amidst this digital transformation, banks face stiff competition from a diverse array of players, including agile fintech startups and innovative tech-driven platforms. These disruptors offer innovative solutions that challenge traditional norms and cater to evolving customer needs.

South African fintech startups, recognized locally and globally, provide convenient digital banking services, investment platforms, and innovative lending solutions, drawing customers away from traditional banks with their agility and customer-centric approach. In 2021, South Africa boasted the highest number of fintech startups in the African region with 154 companies (https://apo-opa.co/3KjmVTL). As of May 2022, fintech startups in South Africa secured close to $US77 million (https://apo-opa.co/3ys79ms).

The fintech value chain encompasses a wide range of services including banking, infrastructure, crowdfunding, digital currencies, lending, payment, and regulation technology.

By facilitating dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing, GITEX Africa accelerates the pace of digital transformation in the financial services sector, driving inclusive growth and economic empowerment across the African continent. Among the more than 35 esteemed speakers from South Africa include Lillian Barnard, President at Microsoft Africa; Zondwa Mandela from Mandela Legacy; and Chipo Mushwana, Executive of Emerging Innovation and Payments, Nedbank.

Major South African investment funds, unicorns, and start-ups fast-forwarding cross-continental progress at GITEX AFRICA 2024 include SAVANT, Zindi, and go1.

Lillian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa, said: “Africa has long been recognised for its formidable growth prospects and AI is the long-awaited key to help unlock that potential.”

“The AI-powered innovation we're seeing today is poised to reinvent every aspect of society from healthcare to financial services, manufacturing and beyond. If Africa is to benefit from the paradigm shift currently sweeping the globe, we must make the promise of AI real for people and organisations across the continent – and do so responsibly.”

Hands-on Support Required for Startups

Bongani Sithole, CEO of Founders Factory Africa and a speaker at GITEX Africa outlines key challenges facing African startups: difficulties in finding product-market fit, hiring the right talent, maintaining company culture while expanding into new markets and securing funding.

Despite these challenges, Sithole highlights opportunities for startups to tap into, including the “development of new products and services to meet the needs of their growing customer base. This can lead to increased innovation and competitiveness.”    

In terms of specific trends within the African startup ecosystem, Sithole says we can expect to see more mergers and acquisitions (M&As) continue this year, primarily driven by larger companies seeking to acquire earlier-stage companies. “M&As are strengthening the startup ecosystem by offering a guarantee of revenue and funding for founders.” Additionally, he notes the potential of AI applications to address societal challenges and drive economic growth.

As Africa's tech ecosystem evolves, he sees opportunities for cross-regional collaboration through initiatives like cross-border agreements for trade and talent, full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), fast-tracking of regulatory approvals.

Reflecting on lessons from leading African unicorns, he highlights the importance of solving societal problems and embracing failure as part of the startup journey. “Many successful founders are not first-time successes. Founders are encouraged to remain within the ecosystem even after failures to create potential unicorn by leveraging their experience.”

At GITEX Africa, Sithole aims to emphasize the importance of “hands-on support” for early-stage ventures beyond just capital. He also hopes to develop actionable steps to stimulate innovation and funding across Africa, advancing the tech and startup ecosystems.

Financial Inclusion and Economic Empowerment

Recognizing the significance of digital transformation, the South African government has taken proactive steps to promote financial inclusion and economic growth. In 2023, the National Treasury released a policy framework to broaden financial inclusion (https://apo-opa.co/4bff3OC), to achieve 90 percent banked status by 2030. This initiative highlights the government's commitment to leveraging digital technologies to drive socioeconomic development and create opportunities for all South Africans.

While progress has been significant, challenges persist, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to ensure equal access to financial services. As South Africa continues to ride the wave of digital finance, the possibilities are boundless. By embracing innovation and strengthening collaboration, the country is charting a journey toward a brighter and more equitable future for all.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa.

Media Contact: 
Tayce Marchesi – PR Executive 
Tel.: + 971 58 552 3994 
Tayce.Marchesi@dwtc.com 

On social media:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3JwCSp0
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3Qjatqj
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/3w8Pbom
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3QluZGW
Youtube: https://apo-opa.co/3UdDFAb
Hashtag: #GITEXAFRICA
Website: www.GITEXAfrica.com

About KAOUN International:
KAOUN International is the independent events company and wholly owned subsidiary of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) established to organize and manage events internationally. Derived from the Arabic word ‘universe', KAOUN International's mission is to ‘Create Limitless Connections' for the industries and markets in which it operates. Created to leverage the 40-year legacy of DWTC's events management business and drive future MICE sector opportunity in the MENASA region. KAOUN International delivers game-changing live experiences that build robust business connections, create opportunity, and stimulate economic growth, building on DWTC's extensive portfolio of business and consumer events spanning multiple sectors, including technology, food and hospitality, sustainability, broadcast and satellite, automotive, talent development and leisure marine.

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GITEX Africa
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Read moreRiding the Wave: South Africa’s Financial Digital Revolution
13 May 2024

Keep it Cool: The Appeal of Custom Cooler Bags in Promotional Gifting

Location: MyPR

In the realm of promotional products, choosing the right item can make all the difference in how a brand is perceived. Among the myriad options available, custom cooler bags have emerged as a popular choice for businesses across Australia, blending functionality with effective branding. Let’s explore why these items are becoming go-to gifts for companies …

Read moreKeep it Cool: The Appeal of Custom Cooler Bags in Promotional Gifting
10 May 2024

Event Info: Kool and the Gang: A Journey Through Time

Location: Entertainment

Hey there, music lovers! Today, we’re going to take a groovy trip down memory lane and chart the incredible journey of the legendary band, Kool and the Gang. Get ready to dance to the infectious beats of R&B, soul, and funk as we explore the history of this iconic group. South African fans can get […]

Read moreEvent Info: Kool and the Gang: A Journey Through Time
10 May 2024

CSA Bids Farewell To Long-Serving Proteas Women Head Coach Hilton Moreeng

Location: Sport

JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has today announced the departure of Hilton Moreeng as the Proteas Women head coach upon...

Read moreCSA Bids Farewell To Long-Serving Proteas Women Head Coach Hilton Moreeng
10 May 2024

South African Rowing Team Sets Sights on Paris 2024: Swiss Showdown Looms

Location: MyPR

The South African rowing team (RMB National Squad) is gearing up for their upcoming journey to Lucerne in Switzerland, where they will be competing to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. This will be the teams’ last chance to grab a spot for the Games in July/August. Among the team members are the …

Read moreSouth African Rowing Team Sets Sights on Paris 2024: Swiss Showdown Looms
10 May 2024

Special 10th edition initiatives for the NELSON MANDELA BAY HALF MARATHON

Location: MyPR

Excitement is mounting as the countdown begins for the Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon which will be held on Saturday, 1 June from Pollock Beach, Summerstrand. Special 10th edition initiatives include bumper prize money, a new Trophy to be awarded to the Club with the Best Celebration Spirit and the first 600 athletes to enter …

Read moreSpecial 10th edition initiatives for the NELSON MANDELA BAY HALF MARATHON
9 May 2024

Pandor condemns killing and silencing of journalists in Palestine

Location: News

Pandor condemns killing and silencing of journalists in Palestine

The capacity of journalists to report on events in real-time is crucial, and intimidating or killing members of the media must not be permitted to persist without consequences.

This is according to International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, who spoke at the second Shireen Abu Akleh Memorial Lecture at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) on Wednesday. 

Abu Akleh was a prominent Palestinian-American journalist, who worked as a reporter for Al Jazeera. She was killed by an Israeli soldier while wearing a blue press vest and covering a raid on the Jenin refugee camp in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

The lecture, organised by the Faculty of Humanities at UJ, centred on the role of academic institutions during periods of genocide.

WATCH | 

Pandor said the lecture occurs against a “troubling” backdrop of an evident decline in media freedom. 

She is of the view that academics and institutions must allocate more time to address the decline and the escalating threat to free expression.

“In the past, journalists knew they would enjoy robust and active protection from fearless colleagues, who would risk their lives to protect them. The decline we are witnessing cannot simply be explained away by citing wireless, social media or other technologies.” 

This week marks two years since the assassination of Abu Akleh, who Pandor described as a beloved veteran journalist, who dedicated her life to the pursuit of justice and truth.

“To date, no one has been held accountable for her death despite the global outrage, and there has been no reported progress in the investigation at the International Criminal Court (ICC) and silence with regards to any other investigation,” the Minister said.

She cited the United Nations (UN) Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, which “concluded on reasonable grounds that Israeli forces used lethal force without justification under international human rights law” when they shot and killed the journalist, violating her right to life.

Pandor bemoaned the situation for journalists in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, which she said has become increasingly grave over the past seven months. 

She cited Committee to Protect Journalists data which revealed that as of 23 April this year, at least 97 journalists and media workers are among the 35 000 that have been killed in Gaza since 7 October 2023.

Pandor is of the view that the targeting of journalists in the Occupied Territories is part of a pattern of silencing the free press and is an outright contravention of international law.

“International human rights law obligates an occupying power to allow for freedom of expression and protests. The ability of journalists to cover events as they take place is essential, and efforts to intimidate and assassinate members of the media should not be allowed to continue with impunity.”

International human rights law, Pandor said, obligates an occupying power to allow for freedom of expression and protests. 

“If Shireen were alive today, she would have been in the trenches in Gaza, reporting day and night on the atrocities taking place in the hopes that the world would take notice and show their solidarity with the Palestinian people.” 

Pandor believes that Abu Akleh would have been devastated by the destruction of civilian life in Gaza and the global tolerance of the unending suffering of the Palestinian people, many of whom have died agonising deaths trapped under rubble. 

“She would have been reporting on the immense suffering of survivors in Gaza, who are now battling unprecedented hunger and starvation, as well as continuous military assaults by the Occupying Forces.” 

Despite the International Court of Justice ruling, the Minister said the Israeli state has continued its murderous assault on the people of Gaza with impunity, killing more civilians, injuring thousands, the continued bombing of homes and other buildings and infrastructure, affecting every possible avenue of life of the residents of Gaza. 

“The lack of accountability by Israel is increasingly clear.”

Crimes against humanity

The Minister said the evidence of the mass killings of civilians points to the perpetration of war crimes, crimes against humanity. 

International humanitarian law prohibits attacks on civilians and non-combatants, underlining the need to protect human life during times of war, Pandor said.

She stressed that South Africa continues to call on the ICC to prosecute these war crimes and to issue arrest warrants for those leaders in Israel who have ordered and presided over these crimes. 

“The slowness to investigate and prosecute those responsible for these war crimes necessitates greater mobilisation among the youth and civil society around the globe to ensure that justice for the Palestinians is realised. 

“It is time for collective action and for us to champion the call for the implementation of UN resolutions and rulings of the world’s highest court. We owe this to the people of Palestine and the memory of Shireen Abu Akleh,” Pandor said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 11:09

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Read morePandor condemns killing and silencing of journalists in Palestine
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