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Nearly 700 runners took to the streets of Motherwell to celebrate Freedom Day at the 12th edition of the 10km Freedom Run, the only township-based race in the Legacy Project series and a proud platform for many young and promising athletes. Nicholas Seoposengwe, 22, of Ikhamva athletics club, stormed to the finish in perfect weather …
Tony Kocke, Crafting Culinary Excellence at @Sandton Hotel – Welcome to the culinary world of Tony Kocke, the newly appointed Complex Executive Chef at @Sandton Hotel. With a culinary journey rich in experience and a deep-seated passion for creating unforgettable dining experiences, Tony brings a blend of expertise and creativity to the culinary offering at …
Unlocking the Terrible Two’s: Navigating the Journey of Autonomy and Exploration – by Clarissa Louw, Headmistress of @Sandton Kids School Parents, educators and caregivers alike are intimately familiar with the term “terrible two’s”. It’s a phrase that often evokes images of tantrums, defiance, and exasperated parents. However, what if we reframed this perspective? What if …
Retractable banners are a popular choice for businesses and organizations looking to boost their visual marketing. These banners are not only cost-effective and easy to use, but they also offer great flexibility and can make a strong impression at trade shows, exhibitions, and other events. This guide explores the benefits of retractable banners and offers …
Democracy restored the dignity of South Africans
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the advent of democracy in South Africa 30 years ago allowed all South Africans to reclaim their dignity.
The President was addressing the nation through his weekly newsletter on Monday.
On Saturday, 27 April, South Africa celebrated 30 years of democracy when millions of South Africans – most voting for the first time – cast their vote in 1994 to remove the racist apartheid government from power.
This as the President led the 2024 Freedom Day national celebrations at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Saturday.
“At times of difficulty in the life of our nation, some have found themselves tempted to question whether life has really been better under democracy. For all who experienced apartheid, there can be no doubt that democracy has restored the dignity of every South African,” the President said in the newsletter.
He called apartheid and its “bureaucratic pettiness” a “national humiliation”.
“[27 April 1994] was the day on which the country turned its back on apartheid. Beyond the great wrong that was apartheid, it was a system designed to deny people their dignity.
“This national humiliation and degradation ranged from bureaucratic pettiness like whites-only benches, restaurants and beaches, to the brute force that saw families torn apart and forcibly moved from their houses and land. People were tortured, imprisoned, exiled and killed. The so-called solution of ‘separate development’ resulted in nothing but underdevelopment for the country’s majority,” he explained.
Children of democracy
President Ramaphosa expressed joy at how people born after 1994 exude confidence “secure in the knowledge that their dignity is both respected and protected”.
“Democracy’s children are self-assured about their human rights, in their citizenship, of their role and place in society, and of their own potential.
“During apartheid, Bantu education was served up to the country’s black majority as a reminder that there was no place for them ‘above the level of certain forms of labour’. In South Africa today, equal access to quality education has enabled black children to become CEOs of companies, professors, engineers, and fighter pilots.
“Young South Africans, our nation’s future, are making their mark in the workplace, in arts, culture and music, in academia, in the high-growth tech and IT sectors, and in serving their communities,” he said.
The President said a great sense of gratitude engulfs him when observing those South Africans born post-1994.
“I am grateful that they will never have to endure the humility and indignity of previous generations, of being forced to sit on separate park benches, dispossessed of their land, denied opportunities for advancement and of being pariahs in the land of their birth,” he said.
Moving forward
Reflecting on the journey to rebuilding the nation, President Ramaphosa acknowledged that “we are not as far as we had hoped to be”.
He added that while government has done much to unravel apartheid’s legacy, many local and global challenges have hampered progress.
“In recent years, as we sought to recover from more than a decade of low growth and the era of state capture, our progress was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the loss of more than 100 000 lives in our country and caused the greatest contraction of our economy in decades.
“The public unrest in July 2021 and the catastrophic floods in parts of the country the following year led to further loss of life and destruction of property and infrastructure.
“While these events severely hampered our collective efforts to rebuild the country, they also showed the resilience of the South African people. Despite these great difficulties, we have persevered with the task of reform and recovery, to grow an inclusive economy and create jobs,” he said.
The President said government remains committed to resolving the challenges that the country faces.
“We have continued to work together to overcome the crises of unemployment, poverty, inequality and underdevelopment. These challenges impact on the lives of millions of people and undermine the dignity that we have worked throughout our democracy to restore.
“And yet we maintain our resolve to move forward with optimism. We have come a long, long way. And we are determined to go further to achieve the free, just and equal South Africa for which millions voted on Freedom Day 30 years ago,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 09:17
President Ramaphosa's diary for the upcoming weeks
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to attend several events over the coming week.
This as the Presidency on Monday released the first citizen’s list of of public events, starting from Tuesday, 30 April to 9 May 2024.
National Orders
As Grand Patron of the National Orders, the President will on Tuesday, 30 April 2024, bestow the 2024 National Orders Awards on distinguished citizens and eminent foreign nationals who have contributed towards the advancement of democracy and have made a significant impact on improving the lives of South Africans.
The National Orders are the highest awards that a country, through its President, bestows on its citizens and eminent foreign nationals.
The President will bestow on deserving recipients the Order of Mendi for Bravery, the Order of Ikhamanga, the Order of the Baobab, the Order of Luthuli, the Order of Mapungubwe, and the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo.
Black Business Council Summit Dinner
The President is expected to deliver the keynote address at the annual Black Business Council (BBC) Summit Dinner to be held at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre, O.R. Tambo in Johannesburg on Tuesday.
The BBC is convened under the theme “30 Years of Democracy – lessons learned and plans for the next 30 Years."
The BBC is the over-arching confederation that represents black professionals, business associations and chambers.
The objective of the BBC is to lobby government on policy related matters and to play an advocacy role where policies are in place in order to accelerate the participation of black business in the mainstream economy.
Unveiling of Home Affairs trucks in Limpopo
President Cyril Ramaphosa will, on Tuesday, 7 May 2024, officially unveil 100 additional Home Affairs mobile trucks that will assist the Department of Home Affairs improvement its services reach to especially remote areas.
The unveiling of these mobile trucks in Mokopane, is made possible by the department’s approved Hybrid Access Model to ensure an expansion of services in areas where the department’s footprint is limited.
The approach is to increase the fleet by 100 every financial year until they reach 1000 from the current fleet of 120.
30 Years Review Report
On 8 May 2024, the President will attend the launch of the 30 Years of Democracy Review Report in Pretoria.
The report to be handed over to the President by the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation will reflect on the political, social, and economic journey of transformation of South Africa since 1994, the advent of democracy, in order to derive lessons and make recommendations for the country’s development agenda.
The report will also provide critical evidence for the development of the new Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF) 2024 – 2029, which serves as a five-year plan of government towards the implementation of the National Development Plan Vision 2030.
Presidential Imbizo
President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 9 May 2024, lead government’s interaction - in the form of a District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo - with communities and stakeholders within the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality in the Northern Cape province.
Themed "Leave No One Behind, the 12th Presidential Imbizo promotes participatory democracy and inclusive development by allowing community members and stakeholders to voice proposals and express any concerns or dissatisfaction they may have about conditions in the district or province.
The Imbizo is directed at enabling successful implementation of the “One District, One Plan” District Development Model in which residents, traditional leaders, business formations, organised labour and faith- and community-based organisations work with government across all phases of planning, implementation, and evaluation.
Preceding the Imbizo, there will be a series of build-up outreach activities led by Ministers, MECs and Mayors in parts of John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality and across the Northern Cape. - SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 15:09
JOHANNESBURG: The stage is set for an electrifying clash as the Cricket South Africa (CSA) T20 Challenge culminates with the final...
Two township musicians have dedicated themselves to teaching children to play and read music
By Onyi Nwaneri CEO of Afrika Tikkun Three decades into our constitutional democracy, the remnants of our dark past continue to lurk in the layered echelons of our unequal society. In commemoration of Freedom Day, on 27 April, we are reminded that though blood was shed and sacrifices were made to attain this freedom, not …
[Johannesburg, April 2024] – Nutritional Performance Labs (NPL), a leading name in sports nutrition, proudly announces its latest stride in the realm of elite sports partnerships. After cementing its status as the official supplement partner of the Emirates Lions in July 2023, NPL now extends its #YellowArmy alliance to include the revered Toyota Cheetahs. In …
Gqeberha, South Africa – Get ready to laugh your socks off because The Friendly City Comedy Crew is here to tickle your funny bone! This talented group of comedians is taking the comedy scene in Gqeberha by storm, delivering side-splitting performances that will leave you in stitches. From hilarious one-liners to clever observations about everyday […]
Taekwon-Do, a dynamic martial art known for its powerful kicks and fluid movements, has gained significant popularity in South Africa over the years. In this article, we will explore the world of Taekwon-Do in South Africa, looking at its history, popularity, training centers, and competitions. The ITFSA International Taekwon-Do Federation South Africa will hold it’s […]
Beach clean-ups play a crucial role in preserving the natural beauty of our coastal areas and protecting marine ecosystems. In Gqeberha, a vibrant coastal city in South Africa, several organizations and clubs have taken up the responsibility of organizing regular clean-up initiatives. Among them, the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) and the […]
In the vibrant city of Gqeberha, the tradition of girls only schools has a rich history that dates back many years. These educational institutions have played a crucial role in shaping the lives of young women and providing them with a nurturing environment to excel academically and personally. Girls only schools in Gqeberha trace their […]
Touring bands and artists have lots of expenses to cover when they go on tour – oftentimes the expenses can be crippling and drive them deep into debt. One way in which MyZA acknowledges and assists artists in a small way is to provide the MyZA Events Calendar which allows artists to publicise their events […]
Treat Yourself to a DIY Spa Experience with Nuts About Cooking Coconut Oil In the rush of daily life, finding moments for self-care can seem out of reach. But DIY spa treatments offer a simple, quick, and affordable way to pamper yourself at home. Taking just 10 minutes to indulge in some you-time can help …
With 2024 marking the 50th celebration of Dungeons & Dragons, both newbies and old hats are more excited than ever. Since Covid, the game has increased in popularity, with people getting together at someone’s home or joining a tabletop gaming event to play and meet with other fans. The game has reached a new peak …
Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, known simply as Shakira, is a Colombian singer, songwriter, dancer, record producer, choreographer, and model. With her unique blend of Latin, pop, and rock music, she has captivated audiences around the world. Let’s explore Shakira’s formative years, her impressive discography and details about her highly anticipated upcoming 2024 tour: Las Mujeres […]
Flavour Fest, the much-anticipated culinary event at Capegate Shopping Centre in Cape Town, is set to delight food enthusiasts with a diverse range of flavours, aromas, and experiences. This annual event celebrates the vibrant food culture of the region, showcasing local and international cuisines, artisanal products, and culinary innovations. A Gastronomic Extravaganza Visitors to Flavour […]
Tsegaye Esyas says he was duped into confessing that he was in South Africa illegally
In today’s digital age, purchasing event tickets has become easier than ever. With the advent of ticketing platforms, individuals can conveniently browse, select, and purchase tickets for a wide range of events, from concerts and sports games to theater performances and conferences. These platforms not only provide a seamless ticket-buying experience but also offer valuable […]
The Presidency announces recipients of National Orders
The Chancellor of the National Orders, Director-General in the Presidency, Phindile Baleni, has announced the recipients of National Orders.
On Tuesday, Baleni made public the names of South Africans and foreign nationals, who will be awarded National Orders at a prestigious ceremony on 30 April 2024.
The National Orders are the highest awards that South Africa, through the President, bestows on citizens and well-known foreign nationals, who have contributed towards the advancement of democracy and who have significantly impacted the lives of South Africans.
The awards also recognise the contributions made by individuals who contributed and continue to contribute to building a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous South Africa, as envisaged in the Constitution.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will bestow on deserving recipients the Order of Mendi for Bravery, the Order of Ikhamanga, the Order of the Baobab, the Order of Luthuli, the Order of Mapungubwe, and the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo.
The Order of Mendi
The Order of Mendi for Bravery recognises South African citizens who have performed acts of bravery.
The Order of Mendi in Silver recipients:
Mawilliams Kekana (posthumously): For her generosity and courageous act of sheltering freedom fighters when it was illegal to align with revolutionaries. She offered her house as a haven for liberation stalwarts against the hostile security police.
Ignatius ‘Iggy’ Mthebule (posthumously): For his gallant fight against an unjust system of apartheid. He is among many lost sons and daughters, whose demise in the hands of security police remains unknown, as he disappeared without a trace. This was at the height of political upheaval, where opposition was brutally silenced. Despite his disappearance, he left an indelible mark of courage and leadership.
Makhwezi McDonald Mtulu (posthumously): For his excellent contribution to the liberation of the people of South Africa. He responded to the brave call to join the military wing of the ANC forsaking the safety of his home to the fight for freedom and died in the process of executing the armed struggle.
Robert Anthony Basil Waterwitch (posthumously): For courageously pushing back against the oppressive system of the apartheid government. He ultimately lost his life for the ideals of freedom in the middle of the war against racism and inequality.
Coline Denise Williams (posthumously): For courageously pushing back against the oppressive system of the apartheid government. She ultimately lost her life for the ideals of freedom in the middle of the war against racism and inequality.
The Order of Ikhamanga
The Order of Ikhamanga recognises South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport.
The Order of Ikhamanga in Gold recipients:
Nontando ‘Noni’ Helen Jabuva (posthumously): For her excellent contribution to the field of journalism and scholarship on the liberation struggle. Her affinity for history and storytelling through journalism informed and enlightened the nation.
Aggrey Klaaste (posthumously): For his exceptional contribution to quality journalism and as a reporter exposing the cruelties of apartheid and encouraging unity among the people of different political persuasions to fight for liberation. He was a nation-builder with a vision for an equal and thriving society.
Madala Muzwakhe Kunene: For his exceptional contribution to the arts, especially jazz music, using home-brewed sounds that are unique to South Africa. He has collaborated with some of the best talents in our country.
The Order of Ikhamanga in Silver recipients:
Agnus Gibson: For his contribution to filmmaking. He strived to provide a haven for black artists at a time when discrimination was normalised and practised with impunity. His collaborations produced iconic narratives of South African history and youth culture.
Emile Lester Jansen: For his contribution to the field of arts and hip-hop culture in South Africa. His artistry and activism formulated a unique lexicon now firmly known as Afrikaap, explaining the African origins of hip-hop.
Saray Nkusi Khumalo: For being an inspiring way-maker for many women through her quest of summiting seven mountains while raising funds. She inspires every African child to pursue what may seem to be impossible dreams.
Sophie Msoziswa Mahlangu: For her excellent contribution to the development of indigenous Ndebele arts. Her commitment to passing on knowledge to younger generations is commendable; she has become a bridge connecting generations.
Madosini Latozi Mphahleni (posthumously): For her exceptional service in preserving and elevating indigenous South African musical traditions. In a rapidly changing world, she stood as a guardian of these ancient sounds, ensuring they were not forgotten. Her commitment to passing on her knowledge to younger generations was unmatched, safeguarding the nation's identity and cultural heritage.
Trevor Dundas Mweli Skota (posthumously): For his contribution to the promotion of black African knowledge through his trailblazing work, including a biographical dictionary of notable black figures on the continent.
The Order of the Baobab
The Order of the Baobab recognises South African citizens who have contributed to community service, business and economy, science, medicine and technological innovation.
The Order of the Baobab in Gold recipients:
Blanche Valeria La Guma (posthumously): For her courageous fight for social justice and equality for all South Africans. She lived by the courage of her convictions and fought for the rights of workers and the liberation of the oppressed.
Zukiswa Patricia Matolengwe: For her commitment to realising social justice for the homeless and downtrodden using ingenious means of stokvels for financial empowerment. Her tireless work in providing dignified living space for the homeless is laudable.
The Order of Luthuli
The Order of Luthuli recognises South African citizens who have contributed to the struggle for democracy, nation-building, building democracy and human rights, justice and peace as well as for the resolution of conflict.
The Order of Luthuli in Gold recipients:
Mxolisi ‘Dicky’ Jacobs (posthumously): For his ultimate sacrifice to the struggle for liberation. His life ended by defending the principles of a just and equal society. Although his life was cut short, he remains a towering stalwart of the struggle who laid down his life for the liberation of his people.
Peter Cyril Jones (posthumously): For his courageous contribution in mobilising communities across the length and breadth of South Africa. He was one of the leading lights advocating for the Black Consciousness message of self-reliance, pride and self-affirmation for the oppressed people.
Benjamin Langa (posthumously): For his ultimate sacrifice for equality and social justice in South Africa. He endured unimaginable pain and remained loyal to the cause until the end. His legacy remains a beacon of light and inspiration to many.
Thobekile ‘Tobsy’ Madaka (posthumously): For his gallant fight against the oppression of our people. He fearlessly spoke truth to power and eventually gave his life for the democracy of South Africa. He lived by the courage of his convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime.
Siphiwo Mthimkhulu (posthumously): For his gallant fight against the oppression of our people. His fearlessness and leadership belied his age as he boldly confronted the forces of oppression and eventually gave his life for the democracy of South Africa. He lived by the courage of his convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime.
Prof Harry Ranwedzi Nengwekhulu: For his gallant fight for the liberation of the people of South Africa. He has straddled academia and political activism with the goal of a free South Africa always in his mind and has served as a source of inspiration for many Black Consciousness activists and others.
Kenneth Rachidi (posthumously): For his courage to face a repressive government and resist its unjust laws that promoted inequality. He lived by the ethics of Black Consciousness. His activism and vocal opposition to oppression remain a legacy and inspiration to South Africans.
Annie Silinga (posthumously): For her commitment to the liberation struggle. She played a leading role in some of the liberation campaigns. She continued to campaign against passes at national and local events.
Nokuthula Simelane (posthumously): For her incredible bravery in the face of brutal security operatives. She lived by the courage of her convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime. Her ultimate sacrifice for the liberation of all South Africans will remain in the annals of our nation’s history.
The Order of Mapungubwe
The Order of Mapungubwe recognises South Africans who have accomplished excellence and exceptional achievement to the benefit of South Africa and beyond.
The Order of Mapungubwe in Silver:
Prof Mulalo Doyoyo (posthumously): For his enormous contribution to academia and research in the field of aerospace. His outstanding work continues to open doors. The sciences have been enhanced by his participation and young aspirant scientists looked up to him as a mentor.
The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo
The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recognises eminent foreign nationals and other foreign dignitaries for friendship shown to South Africa. It is therefore an order of peace, cooperation and active expression of solidarity and support.
The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recipients:
Huub Bammens from the Netherlands: For his contribution to promoting awareness of human rights violations by the South African apartheid government to the world via Radio Freedom. His technical skills were used to build studios for the liberation movement.
Donna Katzin from the United States: For her innovative thinking in assisting post-apartheid South African businesses get ethical investments by promoting networking between South African businesses and American investors.
Ken Luckhard from Canada: For his selfless service to South Africa through anti-apartheid activism. He organised a mass disruptive protest against a visiting English cricket team that had links with apartheid sport.
Nicholas Stadlen from the United Kingdom: For his steadfast standing with the South African liberation movement at a time when it was not convenient to do so. He believed in equality and supported exiles as a friend of South Africa.
Fulco van Aurich from the Netherlands: For his contribution to promoting awareness of human rights violations by the South African apartheid government to the world via Radio Freedom. He organised and developed a campaign in the Netherlands to support Radio Freedom.
Brenda Wall from Canada: For her selfless service to South Africa through anti-apartheid activism; she organised a mass disruptive protest against a visiting English cricket team that had links with apartheid sport.
“We congratulate the recipients and call on all South Africans to join us in celebrating these outstanding South Africans and distinguished friends of South Africa,” Baleni said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 11:31
In today’s digital age, finding the right platform to promote and list your events is crucial for success. Fortunately, there are numerous free calendar event sites available that offer free listings of events. These platforms provide a convenient way to reach a wider audience and increase the visibility of your events. In this article, we […]
South Africa is known for its rich and diverse musical landscape, where artists from various genres captivate audiences both locally and internationally. Among the plethora of talented musicians that hail from this culturally rich country, several standout artists have made a significant impact on the music industry. In this article, we delve into the lives […]