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Meteorological services uninterrupted despite hacking incident

Location: News

Meteorological services uninterrupted despite hacking incident

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has asserted that it continues to rely on alternative channels to render critical marine, aviation and severe weather services, pending the recovery and restoration of compromised Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems.

This follows a cyber security breach on its ICT systems by criminal elements, on Sunday evening.

“Thus far, we have not had an interruption of services. Weather products for marine and aviation sectors are being conveyed via alternative channels. Daily forecasts are being sent regularly via email to media houses and to Disaster Management Authorities,” SAWS Chief Executive Officer, Ishaam Abader said on Thursday.

Abader said that forecasts were further being disseminated through social media platforms, as the organisation’s website remains down.

The weather service said that a team of engineers, and cyber security experts are working around the clock to return operations to normalcy within a reasonable time. Up to so far, the team has been able to restore the SAWS email functionality and telephone system.

“The SAWS understands the significance of its services in so far as they relate to saving lives and property from the impact of hazardous weather. Accordingly, the organisation does not take the cyber-attack lightly. The public will be kept abreast of developments at regular intervals,” the weather service said. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 01/30/2025 - 09:49

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Mashatile to attend opening of first phase of BAPS Hindu Mandir and Cultural Complex

Location: News

Mashatile to attend opening of first phase of BAPS Hindu Mandir and Cultural Complex

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will attend and speak at the official opening of the first phase of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Mandir and Cultural Complex this evening, 30 January 2025.

BAPS Hindu Mandir and Cultural Complex in North Riding, Johannesburg, will serve as a hub for spiritual, social, and charitable activities.

Deputy President Mashatile, a champion of social cohesion and national building initiatives in South Africa, will attend the event at the invitation of BAPS, a global non-governmental organisation with General Consultative Status.

General Consultative Status is the highest level of accreditation granted by the United Nations (UN) to international non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

The BAPS is an international Hindu socio-spiritual organisation that includes a place of worship, offers language and music classes, and features a sports complex.

“Built by thousands of volunteers, the iconic centre is accordingly, the first of its kind in the African continent, and it brings together people from all walks of life,” the Deputy President’s Office said in a statement. 

“The centre also stands as a symbol of hope, unity, and cultural harmony for all the citizens of different backgrounds, and it is built to inspire positive values of community service and nation building.” 

Deputy President Mashatile will attend the event alongside His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the current Guru and President of the BAPS, who will preside over the inaugural celebrations. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Thu, 01/30/2025 - 09:56

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Health Minister encourages adherence to ARV treatment

Location: News

Health Minister encourages adherence to ARV treatment

Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has appealed to people on antiretroviral (ARV) treatment to continue taking their medication amid reports that grant funding by the United States of America (USA) is under review.

The review of the grant funding is expected to affect the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) programme, which is aimed at supporting HIV prevention, care and treatment. The programme supports several countries, including South Africa, to achieve HIV epidemic control.

Addressing members of the media on the sidelines of a two-day Cabinet Lekgotla, Motsoaledi said the country’s ARVs proramme will not be affected, as it is funded by the South African government and the Global Fund.

“For now, all HIV/AIDS programmes continue. As the South African government, we want to ascertain that nobody must stop taking ARVs because that will be devastating,” Motsoaledi said on Wednesday.

South Africa has 52 districts and of those, 27 districts are funded by PEPFAR.

“PEPFAR chose 27 of the most affected districts and these districts are in eight provinces, as they choose districts based on the burden of HIV/AIDS. The only province that is not included is the Northern Cape because it does not have any districts that are highly affected by HIV/AIDS,” the Minister said.

Of the 27 districts, seven of them are in KwaZulu-Natal; five are in the Eastern Cape, four are in Gauteng; three are in Mpumalanga and the North West, respectively; two are in Limpopo and one is in the Western Cape.

“The total number of people on the ground who are dealing with HIV/AIDS in those 27 districts is 271 606. Of the 271 606 people, 256 452 are funded by South Africa from the fiscus. That leaves us with 15 145 people, who will be affected by the withdrawal.

“Our biggest problems will be the salaries and the operational costs. That is what we are looking at with National Treasury,” Motsoaledi said.

Seventy-six percent of the funding for HIV/AIDS programmes is from South Africa. This constitutes 74% of funding from the government and 2% from the private sector.

“That leaves us with a gap that is filled by the Global Fund, which gives 7% and PEPFAR, which accounts for 17%. When you add the funds from the Global Fund and South Africa’s funding, that makes 83% and PEPFAR remains with the 17%. We are buying ARVs, together with the Global Fund,” the Minister said.

With reports indicating changes in the grant funding by the US, Motsoaledi said the government of South Africa has not received any communication on these changes.

“So far, we have not received a letter from the American government. These funds for the HIV/AIDS programmes come through National Treasury and they have not received a letter; the Department of Health and Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) have also not received a letter.

“We have tried to contact the US embassy and we couldn’t get them. The NGOs and the clinics that are funded by PEPFAR are the ones who have received letters,” the Minister said.

Out of the 63 million people in South Africa, 7.8 million people are HIV positive, with 5.5 million on ARVs.

In 2014, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) adopted the strategy of 95-95-95, which sets a target that 95% of people living with HIV (PLHIV) must know their HIV status; 95% of people diagnosed with HIV must receive antiretroviral therapy (ART) and 95% of people receiving ART must achieve viral load suppression (VLS).

“We are on 96%. That means 96% of people who have HIV in South Africa know their status but of those, 79% are on treatment and in that 79% who are on ARVs, 94% of them are virally suppressed. It means that they can no longer spread the virus, reducing the number of new infections.

“For us to reach the 95-95-95 targets by 2030 - because we want to eliminate HIV as a threat to human health - we need 1.1million people to be on treatment so we reach the target,” the Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 01/30/2025 - 07:00

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President convenes Cabinet Lekgotla

Location: News

President convenes Cabinet Lekgotla

President Cyril Ramaphosa has convened a Cabinet Lekgotla with leaders from all spheres of government - to review government’s progress on priorities, assess challenges and set the agenda for the seventh administration.

Addressing members of the media on the agenda of the two-day meeting, Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said government was finalising the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) 2024/2029.

The plan proposes three strategic priorities, which include inclusive growth and job creation; reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, as well as building a capable, ethical and developmental State.

“We are focusing on the practical actions that we need to take to make good on the promises that we have made and set practical timeframes so that we can realise the priorities of the MTDP.

“We also received a scene-setting report from National Treasury on the economic outlook and the global outlook -- trends that will inform government planning.

“We are looking at what we want to achieve in terms of reforms on global institutions, in particular the security system of the United Nations and global funding institutions,” the Minister said on Wednesday, on the sidelines of the Cabinet Lekgotla.

Other areas of focus include funding Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) and the “missing middle”, in reference to students whose household income is too high to qualify for National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding, yet too low to afford tertiary education without financial assistance.

The Cabinet Lekgotla is taking place on 29 and 30 January 2025 at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House, in Pretoria. 

The outcomes of the meeting will shape government’s policies and programmes that will be announced by the President during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Parliament on Thursday, 6 February 2025, at 19:00. 

With the seventh administration being under the Government of National Unity (GNU), which comprises 10 political parties from across the spectrum, Ntshavheni emphasised that the meeting will prioritise the interests of the country.

“We are meeting as the GNU and we are not bringing party political interests. We are going to negotiate and discuss as members of Cabinet and representatives of provinces, which are represented by Premiers.

“We work for the best benefit of our country and not the best benefit of our parties. The engagements are on the level of us being members of the national executive,” Ntshavheni said.

South Africa’s term for the Group of Twenty (G20) presidency also features on the meeting’s agenda.

“As we are preparing to host the G20, we will receive a report on the logistics and the content on government goals for the summit,” the Minister said.

South Africa holds the G20 Presidency from 1 December 2024 to 30 November 2025, under the theme: “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability” .

South Africa's G20 Presidency is the fourth consecutive emerging market Presidency, and it is also the first African Presidency, followed by the admission of the African Union (AU) as the second permanent African member. 

The G20 was established to tackle pressing global economic and financial issues. Together, G20 members account for around 85% of global GDP and 75% of international trade. 

The G20 comprises 19 countries, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, the United Kingdom and the United States, and two regional bodies, namely the European Union and the African Union.

The grouping plays a critical role in influencing global policy making and fostering global economic stability. - SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Wed, 01/29/2025 - 18:23

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Defeating Cervical Cancer: Improving Access to Testing to Save Lives

Location: News
FIND

Although cervical cancer is now a vaccine-preventable disease, 1 woman dies every 2 minutes globally of cervical cancer. Women in low- and middle-income countries are disproportionately affected. 

In South Africa (SA), over 10,700 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed each year, with over 5,800 deaths. Cervical cancer is a preventable tragedy, and South Africa has the tools and knowledge to turn the tide. 

We can eliminate cervical cancer by addressing the principal cause: the human papillomavirus or HPV. This is done by 1) vaccinating both boys and girls between the ages of 9 and 15; and 2) expanding access to HPV screening for all women. Screening for early diagnosis is critical because when diagnosed early, cervical cancer is considered treatable/curable. 

SA is making significant strides in expanding access to both vaccination and screening, but significant barriers remain. Dr Ifedayo Adetifa, CEO of FIND (https://apo-opa.co/4jMkyJA), whose mission is #DiagnosisForAll says, “The fight to eliminate cervical cancer is far from over, but there is hope on the horizon. FIND is working with the public and private sectors in South Africa to find innovative and scalable solutions to test for HPV”.  

Recent research by FIND and partners provides critical insights that could transform how we approach cervical cancer prevention and management. The project explored the acceptability and demand for HPV self-collection testing among South African women as a means of increasing access to HPV screening. 

Key findings from the client surveys include 

1. Low Awareness of Cervical Cancer and HPV: 

  • 58% of women surveyed had little or no knowledge about cervical cancer or its link to HPV. 
  • 46% cited nurses and doctors as their primary sources of information, showing the critical role healthcare providers play in education. 

2. HPV DNA Testing: The Preferred Choice: 

  • 77% of respondents chose HPV DNA testing as their preferred method, valuing its reliability and less invasive nature. 
  • Among these, 71% preferred self-collection, citing privacy and convenience as the main reasons for their choice. 

3. Pharmacy Accessibility: 

  • 74% of women who preferred self-collection indicated they would purchase kits from pharmacies. 

4. Affordability and Willingness to Pay: 

  • Most respondents indicated that a price point between $18 and $36 would make the test more accessible. 

5. Home vs Clinic Preferences: 

  • 59% preferred collecting samples in clinics or hospitals, 28% preferred to self-collect at home, and 14% at a laboratory. 

A Promising Solution: HPV Self-Collection Testing 

One of the standout findings from the research is the high level of interest in HPV self-collection testing. This innovative approach empowers women to take control of their health by collecting samples in the privacy of their homes or at a convenient location. The research further revealed that many women are willing to pay up to $36 (approximately R680) for this service if made available at pharmacies.  

Self-collection testing eliminates the need for invasive pelvic exams in clinical settings which many women find uncomfortable or stigmatising. It reduces the logistical challenges of accessing clinics, particularly for women in rural or underserved areas where healthcare facilities are not readily available. Making self-collection kits available in pharmacies could significantly increase screening rates and achieve early diagnosis. 

The Knowledge Gap Among Healthcare Practitioners 

While self-collection testing presents an exciting opportunity, its success depends on a well-informed and capable healthcare system. Unfortunately, the research revealed a concerning lack of understanding among healthcare practitioners regarding the national cervical cancer management protocols.  

Without proper guidance, healthcare providers may fail to offer appropriate counselling, follow-up, or referrals for women with abnormal screening results.  Addressing this issue requires targeted training and capacity-building initiatives. FIND, in partnership with the National Department of Health (NDOH), trained over 700 health practitioners between September and October 2024, 

The Public Awareness Deficit 

Equally troubling is the lack of available information for the public about cervical cancer, its causes, and prevention methods. Many women remain unaware of the importance of regular screening.  Through its community arm, the African Cervical Health Alliance (ACHA), FIND, NDOH, and private sector partners engaged community health partners to develop, adapt and distribute over 10,000 copies of materials to communities about prevention and treatment of cervical cancer. 

A Vision for the Future 

To reduce the burden of cervical cancer in South Africa, we need a multi-pronged approach that combines education, innovation, and systemic reform. This includes: 

  1. Policy Support: Advocating for policy changes to integrate self-collection testing into the national screening program and subsidize costs for low-income populations. 
  2. Expanding Access to Self-Collection Testing: Making HPV self-collection kits widely available at affordable prices. 
  3. Enhancing Practitioner Training: Ensuring healthcare providers are well-versed in national cervical cancer management protocols. 
  4. Strengthening Public Awareness Campaigns: Launching nationwide initiatives to educate women and communities about cervical cancer prevention and the availability of new screening options. 

When women have access to convenient, affordable options like HPV DNA self-testing, we're not just improving health outcomes – we're giving women control over their health decisions.” Says Dr Ntombi Sigwebela, Regional Director of FIND (https://apo-opa.co/4jMkyJA)

The South African G20 Presidency is prioritizing health equity, solidarity and universal health coverage. Addressing the diagnostics gap for women's health is crucial to achieving this agenda and building an equitable and inclusive global health architecture.  

For more information on FIND's Cervical Cancer Elimination Project, visit: FIND South Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4jMkyJA)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of FIND.

Watch our educational webinars:
FIND's YouTube Channel (https://apo-opa.co/3CwQXTx)

Contact details:
Beatrice Bernescut
Director, Communications
FIND 
+41 (0) 79 963 86 78 
www.FINDdx.org 

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SA signs international treaty to boost food security, biodiversity

Location: News

SA signs international treaty to boost food security, biodiversity

South Africa has joined scores of countries worldwide that have formalised their commitment to ensuring the conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.

The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) announced on Tuesday that South Africa has officially signed the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA).

The objectives of the ITPGRFA are conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture, and to promote the fair and equitable sharing of these benefits arising from their use, in agreement with the Convention on Biological Diversity for sustainable agriculture and food security.

The treaty also aims to, among others, recognise the contribution of farmers in enhancing the diversity of crops that feed the world; establish a global system to provide farmers, plant breeders and scientists with access to plant genetic materials, and ensure that the recipients thereof share the benefits they derive from using these genetic materials.

Some of the countries that have ratified the treaty include Australia, Belgium, Egypt, the United States of America and Argentina, to name a few.

South Africa submitted its instrument of accession with the Director-General of the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) on 23 December 2024, making it the 154th Contracting Party to this international treaty.

By joining the ITPGRFA, the DALRRD said South Africa is reaffirming its commitment to global efforts to conserve and sustainably use plant genetic resources, which are essential for food security and agricultural biodiversity. 

This is aligned with the recently approved White Paper on Conservation and Sustainable Use of South Africa’s Biodiversity.

“South Africa’s accession to the ITPGRFA brings new opportunities for collaboration within the treaty’s framework, including participation in its multilateral system, which facilitates access to a global pool of genetic resources.

“The ITPGRFA’s national implementation will require close collaboration between the National Genebank, the relevant national departments, provincial Departments of Agriculture, community seed banks, farmers, civil society organisations, industry and research and academic institutions,” the department said.

More information on the ITPGRFA can be accessed on https://www.fao.org/plant-treaty/en/. – SAnews.gov.za 

GabiK
Wed, 01/29/2025 - 10:27

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President Ramaphosa extends well wishes to China on Lunar New Year

Location: News

President Ramaphosa extends well wishes to China on Lunar New Year

President Cyril Ramaphosa has conveyed messages of goodwill to the government and people of the People’s Republic of China on the commencement of the Lunar New Year of the Snake and Annual Spring Festival, on Wednesday, 29 January 2025. 

The Lunar New Year is celebrated to usher in a New Year on the day of the first sighting of the new moon, in line with the traditional Chinese calendar.

This year has been declared the Year of the Snake. The snake is expected to bring about transformation and new beginnings. 

"We extend our good wishes to the Chinese community in South Africa including Chinese citizens who live in or are currently visiting our beautiful country. 

“Similarly, we wish that the New Year will bring continued success to our Chinese trade and investment partners who are making an important contribution to our economy,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President expressed his hope that the new brings new prosperity in relations between the two countries.

“We are confident that, under the leadership of His Excellency President Xi Jinping, the Year of the Snake will sustain the People’s Republic of China’s standing as a formidable force for good and a source of wisdom and shared prosperity in the global family of nations.

“May the celebration of Spring and the rebirth of nature be a symbol of the blossoming of even closer relations between our two nations under our All-Round Strategic Cooperative Partnership in a New Era,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Wed, 01/29/2025 - 09:06

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Revisiting the Africa-Paris Declaration: Progress, Challenges and the Road Ahead for African Energy

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

The Africa-Paris Declaration, forged during the 2024 Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum in Paris, was a pivotal moment in Africa's quest for sustainable energy solutions. Aimed at strengthening the continent's energy transition while addressing the urgent issue of energy poverty, the declaration set ambitious targets for expanding access to clean, affordable and reliable energy. With the 2025 edition of the forum approaching, now is the time to reflect on the progress made since the Africa-Paris Declaration and assess how these initiatives are shaping Africa's energy future.

Increased Engagement in Africa

In the months following the declaration, international investors, development banks and private equity firms have shown a steadfast interest in the African energy market. A key milestone was the launch of the Africa Energy Bank by the African Export-Import Bank and APPO, marking the creation of a first-of-its-kind institution designed to fund and facilitate energy initiatives across the continent. Several final investment decisions were successfully closed, including Shell's $5.5 billion Bonga North deepwater project. Additionally, strategic partnerships, including new PSCs signed by Panoro Energy in Equatorial Guinea and BW Energy in Gabon, highlight how international collaborations are accelerating energy development and creating new opportunities for exploration and production. This increased engagement is key to addressing the financing gap that has long hindered the growth of Africa's energy sector.

Natural gas continues to play a central role in Africa's energy strategy as a transitional fuel. The Africa-Paris Declaration underscored its importance as a bridge between traditional energy sources and renewable energy. Over the past year, significant strides have been made in natural gas exploration and LNG exports. Notable developments include Senegal's Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG reaching its first gas production, the Republic of Congo's first LNG exports to Italy from the Congo LNG project, Nigeria's UTM FLNG receiving its construction license, and Angola's Sanha Lean Gas Connection project achieving first gas, among others. These initiatives are not only crucial for advancing Africa's energy transition, but also serve as powerful drivers of economic growth by creating jobs and advancing infrastructure development.

Meanwhile, countries like South Africa, Egypt and Morocco are at the forefront of wind and solar energy development, with momentum expected to build as they meet renewable energy targets and explore new growth opportunities. These investments are driving a shift toward cleaner, more sustainable energy in Africa, though challenges remain. High costs of renewable technologies and insufficient grid infrastructure continue to hinder expansion, underscoring the need for more investment in off-grid and mini-grid solutions.

Investment Gaps Persist 

Despite these advancements, Africa still faces significant investment challenges. The financing gap for large-scale energy projects remains substantial and while the private sector has become more engaged, many projects still struggle to secure the necessary capital. In particular, the cost of financing remains high due to the perceived risks associated with energy investments in Africa. This is where continued efforts to de-risk investments and foster public-private partnerships are critical to unlocking the continent's full energy potential. Institutional capacity continues to be a challenge for many African countries. While progress has been made in improving regulatory frameworks, there is still a need for clearer policies, streamlined permitting processes and better enforcement of regulations. Governments must continue to strengthen their institutions to effectively implement energy projects and create an enabling environment for both local and international investors.

With the IAE 2025 forum just months away, industry stakeholders have an opportunity to reflect on the progress made since the Africa-Paris Declaration and determine next steps for the continent's energy future. The forum serves as a platform for government officials, industry leaders and financial institutions to renew commitments, share success stories and address ongoing challenges. While the road to universal energy access and a sustainable energy future is long, the declaration has set the framework for a collective effort that can lead to meaningful change. With the right investments, regulatory frameworks and political will, Africa can emerge as a global leader in energy innovation and sustainability.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

IAE 2025 (www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

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Stronger measures to protect oceans from pollution

Location: News

Stronger measures to protect oceans from pollution

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law the Marine Pollution (Prevention of Pollution from Ships) Amendment Bill, ushering in stronger measures to better protect South Africa’s oceans from ship-related pollution. 

In a statement, The Presidency highlighted the importance of the legislation, which is also a contribution to global efforts to protect the marine environment and sustainable economic exploitation. 

“With a coastline stretching over 3 000 kilometres from Namibia on the Atlantic Ocean to Mozambique on the Indian Ocean, the new legislation is seen as vital to safeguarding the country’s environmental and economic security,” the Presidency said. 

South Africa has a large exclusive economic zone at sea and a marine economy which, in 2022, supported about 400 000 jobs in areas across the existing marine economic sectors of shipping, associated construction, tourism and fisheries.

“The law signed by President Ramaphosa is born out of the recognition that ships can pollute our oceans in various ways, from oil spills to harmful chemical sewage and garbage,” the Presidency said. 

The law amends the Marine Pollution Act to incorporate Annex IV and Annex VI of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships.  

Annex IV regulates the activities for treatment and safe disposal of sewage from ships.  Annex VI is the main global instrument that addresses ship energy-efficiency management and Greenhouse Gas emissions.

The amended legislation further broadens the powers of the Minister of Transport to make regulations relating to, among others, the prevention of air pollution from ships and the prevention of pollution by sewage from ships.

“The new law also increases fines from R500 000 to R10 million for any person convicted of serious offences under the Marine Pollution (Prevention of Pollution from Ships) Act or the international Convention which forms part of South African law,” The Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Tue, 01/28/2025 - 11:21

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SA hosts global circular economy workshop

Location: News

SA hosts global circular economy workshop

Efforts to ensure that South Africa has a clean and healthy environment are under the spotlight at the 7th Global Forum of Cities for Circular Economy (GFCCE) workshop.

The two-day workshop, which is being hosted by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) in Johannesburg -- in collaboration with the Centre for Science and Environment -- is aimed at enhancing South-South cooperation for improving the solid waste management ecosystem in the Global South, and building the capacity of nominated officials from 18 African nations.

The workshop, which concludes on Wednesday, is being attended by delegates from Botswana, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Eswatini, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Addressing the opening of the workshop, South Africa's Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Bernice Swarts, highlighted some of the measures government has adopted to bolster the circular economy, focusing on reusing and recycling materials to ensure a sustainable and secure supply of resources.

“South Africa has instituted various policy instruments and initiatives to advance sustainable development pathways, with circular economy principles firmly embedded in these strategies,” Swarts said on Tuesday. 

These policy instruments include the National Waste Management Strategy, Extended Producer Responsibility Regulations (EPR) for priority waste streams and other economic instruments that include fees, levies and taxes to incentivise or disincentivise behaviour change.

“Extended Producer Responsibility became necessary to be included in South Africa’s policy mix, given the increased generation of waste. EPR shifts seek to shift the responsibility for products from municipalities and consumers, to producers.

“South Africa is under immense pressure and the host city [of the workshop] - the City of Joburg - together with others - does not have sufficient landfill airspace. It is, therefore, necessary to utilise a policy mix to address resource efficiency. It is also necessary that cities are enabled to monitor resource use,” Swarts said.

The Deputy Minister noted that for meaningful progress to be made across the board, strong partnerships are needed.

"Collaboration between government and the private sector is paramount in realising the goals of the waste management hierarchy and facilitating our transition to a circular economy. 

“South Africa remains steadfast in its commitment to strengthening these partnerships and advancing the shared objectives of the GFCCE. This collaboration benefits our governments through reduced spending and creates green opportunities,” she said.

Since its establishment in 2021, the GFCCE has expanded to a community of 22 Member States, with 18 countries from Africa. This platform is dedicated to advancing circular economy principles in alignment with national policies and priorities. 

Cities account for 75% of natural resource consumption and 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions. 

Swarts said more people will continue to migrate to cities to seek better opportunities and it is necessary that cities become resilient in resource efficiency and reduce their environmental footprint. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 01/28/2025 - 13:05

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Africa showcases tourism offering

Location: News

Africa showcases tourism offering

South Africa is today hosting a media launch to pave the way to the 19th edition of Meetings Africa -- the continent's premier business events trade show.  

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille and Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu are today leading the launch, which is taking place at the Johannesburg Stock Exchange where they will share key information about Meetings Africa.

South African Tourism, in partnership with the Gauteng Tourism Authority, Johannesburg Tourism Company and the Sandton Convention Centre, will host the 19th Meetings Africa.

The prestigious gathering will take place at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg from 25 - 26 February 2025. This will be preceded by the Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay) on 24 February, which is designed to foster meaningful connections and collaborations.

Meetings Africa

Meetings Africa is the leading platform that showcases Africa's diverse business events, products and experiences. It will be held under the theme: “Africa’s success built on quality connections.” 

The event highlights collaboration and knowledge sharing to drive the continent’s success and growth.

This year, Meetings Africa will once again bring together hundreds of exhibitors, buyers and key decision-makers from the global business events sector. 

It is a sought-after platform designed to drive engagement, create impactful connections, and unlock new opportunities for Africa's business events industry.

With attendees expected from 19 African countries and 52 international markets, the event is set to amplify Africa’s positioning as a world-class destination for business events.

Meetings Africa 2025 also capitalises on the tourism sector’s remarkable recovery momentum and its potential to propel economic growth across the continent.

The media launch will include a panel discussion by tourism and business events leaders including South African Tourism CEO, Nombulelo Guliwe; Sithembiso Dlamini, the CEO of Gauteng Tourism Authority; Rick Taylor, the CEO of The Business Tourism Company; Glenton de Kock, the CEO of the South African Association of the Conference Industry, and Gwen Ncube, the Director for Stakeholder Relations at Small Tourism Enterprise Association (STEA). – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 01/28/2025 - 10:02

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South Africa outlines G20 Presidency plans at WEF

Location: News

South Africa outlines G20 Presidency plans at WEF

As the world convened in Davos for the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting recently, South Africa presented its vision for the G20 Presidency this year – outlining a path towards a more equitable and sustainable future.

This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who addressed the country through his weekly Presidential newsletter on Monday.

South Africa’s theme for the Group of Twenty (G20) Presidency is Solidary, Equality, Sustainable Development.

“We made the point that it is in the interests of all countries, large and small, wealthy and poor, to reduce global inequality. That is why one of our priorities is ensuring debt sustainability for low-income countries. By freeing up funds for debt relief in these countries, they will be in a better position to invest in infrastructure, industrial development, education, health care and other forms of development.

“Another focus area, which both reduces poverty and promotes sustainability, is the mobilisation of finance for a just energy transition. Through this, developing economy countries will be able to pursue a low-carbon development path while protecting the interests of affected workers, businesses and communities,” the President said.

Related to this, the President spoke of the “mobilisation of special financing and insurance to enable vulnerable countries to rebuild after being struck by natural disasters” and harnessing critical minerals “to promote inclusive growth and development”.

He emphasised, however, that in order for sustainable growth to be achieved, countries must work together.

“We stressed that our themes and priorities are underpinned by the principle of cooperation. Throughout history, human progress has been possible only through collaboration among peoples and countries. 

“We therefore renewed our call for the resolution of global challenges through multilateral actions. We called for inclusive solutions that recognise that the world is more interconnected than ever before,” he said.

Pressing further, the President emphasised that the current world climate shows that “no country can go it alone”. 

“No country can sustain its growth, stability and development without working together with other countries to overcome common problems,” he said.

Positive sentiment

President Ramaphosa revealed that South Africa’s message at WEF “resonated with the participants in Davos”. 
“It was a sentiment shared by many of the business leaders with whom we interacted, as well as with other heads of state and multilateral institutions.

“Many of the people we spoke to endorsed South Africa’s G20 priorities. They saw the value of our focus on Africa and the interests of countries with developing economies. They appreciated the importance of reducing inequality within and between countries and the need for new growth paths that are climate-friendly sustainable,” he said.

READ | President Ramaphosa outlines SA's G20 Presidency priorities at WEF

Furthermore, there was a much-improved sentiment towards “South Africa and the prospects for our economy in the years ahead”. 

“They commented on the successful transition from the 6th to the 7th administrations and the formation of the Government of National Unity. They saw this as a sign of stability and a common commitment among parties to inclusive growth, employment and a capable state. 

“They welcomed the far-reaching reforms that are underway in areas such as energy, logistics, telecommunications and water to grow and transform our economy.

“The South African delegation left Davos with a sense that there are many leaders in the world that share our vision of an inclusive, just and equal world. And that they are prepared and willing to work with us through our G20 Presidency towards the achievement of such a world,” President Ramaphosa concluded.

The annual WEF meeting held from 20 to 24 January 2025, convened global leaders to address key global, and regional challenges. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 01/27/2025 - 11:17

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Anant Singh appointed to WEF Global Arts and Culture Council

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Anant Singh appointed to WEF Global Arts and Culture Council

South African film producer, Anant Singh, has been appointed to the Global Arts and Culture Council (GACC). 

This, at the GACC's inaugural meeting held at the Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland.

The GACC was established in the context of the shifting world from an industrial era to a more intelligent and interconnected society, where the arts and culture sector is uniquely positioned to lead the way toward a unified and prosperous future. 

In this moment of transformation, the GACC was launched with a distinguished group of visionary cultural leaders committed to harnessing creativity to shape the new age.

“Artists and the creative community around the world are the voice of the people and the custodians of humanity’s storytelling.  The Global Arts and Culture Council is vitally important in a fractious world where the voice and expressions of artists need to be heard in order to contribute to the dialogues of the journeys of millions of people.

“It was also a pleasure to attend the first plenary session of President Cyril Ramaphosa where he addressed the delegates in advance of the G20 Summit in South Africa in November.  The G20 Summit presents an exceptional opportunity for us to showcase our remarkable country and its people to the world,” Videovision Entertainment said on Monday.

On 23 January, Singh participated in a panel entitled “An Artist’s Path Out of Injustice”.

Singh is known for using the medium of film to speak out against the injustices of apartheid as well as significant social issues like HIV/AIDS and gender-based violence. 

This year marks Singh’s 25th consecutive attendance of the Annual Meeting since receiving the WEF’s Crystal Award in 2001. - SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Mon, 01/27/2025 - 11:47

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G20 Working Group commits to tackling financing for development

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G20 Working Group commits to tackling financing for development

The first 2025 G20 Development Working Group (DWG) meeting, which took place this week, was characterised by robust discussions aimed at tackling global development challenges.

This is according to the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation.

The meeting, which was held from 20 to 23 January, was officially opened by Minister in the Presidency, Maropene Ramokgopa, who emphasised the importance of fostering global solidarity, equality, and sustainable development to create a future characterised by resilience, inclusivity, and sustainability.

Over the three days, G20 DWG members emphasised the importance of investing in enabling the optimal provision of global public goods, universal social protection, financing for development, and the urgent need to address illicit financial flows (IFFs) in the pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

According to the department, the meeting reaffirmed that social protection was a critical tool in reducing poverty and inequality while fostering inclusive and sustainable development. 

“The G20 DWG highlighted the importance of scaling up social protection systems, particularly in developing economies, to ensure universal access to essential services. Discussions emphasised the necessity of addressing the needs of marginalised groups, including those in the informal economy and small enterprises, with an emphasis on ensuring that no one is left behind,” said the department.

A key focus of the meeting was the growing financing gap for achieving the SDGs. 

The DWG acknowledged the urgent need for additional, at-scale, and predictable financing to support sustainable development, particularly in Africa and other developing countries. 

Several speakers emphasised the need for stronger regulatory frameworks and international cooperation to enhance national capacities for tackling illicit financial flows (IFFs), which continue to undermine development efforts.

Illicit financial flows, particularly through trade mis-invoicing, were highlighted as a significant barrier to achieving the SDGs. 

“The G20 DWG also recognised the importance of partnerships between customs administrations, financial intelligence units, and law enforcement agencies in curbing these illicit flows. These efforts are crucial for creating fiscal space that enables countries to finance the SDGs and achieve long-term economic resilience.”

As part of its programme, the South African Presidency G20 DWG will host several meetings to develop key outputs and map out a programme of action to advance progress on the SDGs and other global development priorities. 

The 2025 G20 DWG meeting concluded with a clear commitment to tackling the interconnected challenges of social protection, financing for development, and illicit financial flows. 

“The discussions underscored the need for urgent action to close the development financing gap, mobilise resources effectively, and build resilient economies. 

“As the world moves closer to the 2030 SDG deadline, many speakers  in the G20 DWG emphasised the need to support developing countries in their pursuit of sustainable and inclusive development, with a focus on creating fiscal space, enhancing financial transparency, and ensuring that no one is left behind,” said the department. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Sun, 01/26/2025 - 11:52

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SA film earns Oscar nomination

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SA film earns Oscar nomination

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie says he has received “with great pride and a sense of expectation” news of the Academy Award nomination for the South African film The Last Ranger.

Directed by Cindy Lee, the film has been nominated in the category of Best Live Action Short Film at the 97th Academy Awards, to be held in March 2025.

According to the department, this remarkable isiXhosa film, inspired by true events in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, tells the compelling story of Thandi, a rhino that miraculously survived a poaching attack at the Kariega Game Reserve, and the courageous woman who fought to protect these iconic animals against all odds.

“The Last Ranger is a powerful tribute to the resilience of our wildlife and the unwavering dedication of conservationists who work tirelessly to safeguard our natural heritage. Featuring stellar performances by Avumile Qongqo, Liyabona Mroqoza and Makhaola Ndebele, and written by David Lee, Darwin Shaw and Will Hawks, this production stands as a testament to South Africa’s rich storytelling and cinematic excellence,” said the department.

The film’s ongoing success, having already won Best Short Narrative at the 2024 Pan African Film Festival (PAFF), is a clear indication of its impact and brilliance.

The Minister said he was confident that it would continue to make an impact on the global stage, "and we eagerly await the Oscar ceremony on 2 March 2025, hopeful for yet another triumph".

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire cast and crew of The Last Ranger. Your hard work and dedication have helped to elevate South African cinema to new heights and kept our country in the eye of the world.

“Let us all rally behind this incredible production and showcase our support for local brilliance,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Janine
Fri, 01/24/2025 - 12:18

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Health Department convenes first G20 Health Working Group meeting

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Health Department convenes first G20 Health Working Group meeting

The Department of Health will convene the first virtual Group of 20 (G20) Health Working Group meeting on Friday, 24 January 2025, as part of the country’s G20 Presidency activities planned for 2025.

“The objective of this meeting on health is for South Africa to present its G20 Health Working Group priorities to the Member States and other invited stakeholders to be informed about the country’s priorities and also to make inputs accordingly,” the department said in a statement. 

The mandate of the Health Working Group is to improve global health by addressing health challenges, building resilient health systems, and promoting equitable access to health services.

This virtual meeting will focus on the theme: ‘Accelerate Health Equity, Solidarity, and Universal Coverage’ and will include representatives from all G20 Member States, invited non-Member States and international organisations.

The health priorities identified within the broader South African G20 Presidency will form part of the deliberations on the day and include the strengthening of primary healthcare as a pathway towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC), the Pandemic Prevention Preparedness and Response, and strengthening of health and care workforce. 

The leaders will also focus on stemming the tide of non-communicable diseases and science and innovation for health and economic growth. 

“This will be the first of the planned meetings, both in-person and virtual, scheduled to take place throughout the year across the country,” the department explained, adding that the outcomes of these technical working group meetings will inform part of the discussions at the meetings for G20 Health Ministers culminating in a G20 Health Working Group declaration. 

South Africa assumed the G20 Presidency, being the first African country to do so, on 1 December 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 13:34

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SA calls on US to reconsider withdrawal from Paris Agreement

Location: News

SA calls on US to reconsider withdrawal from Paris Agreement

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has called on the United States of America to take its commitments under international law seriously, and carefully consider the ramifications of its intended withdrawal from the Paris Agreement.

This comes after reports indicate that President Donald Trump has started the process to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement again.

In a statement on Thursday, George expressed profound regret over the decision of the United States of America to withdraw from the Paris Agreement again.

“The Paris Agreement represents the most flexible and dynamic approach to addressing climate change. The US played an important role in the negotiation of the Paris Agreement, and the withdrawal of the USA is not only an abdication of the global responsibility that we all have to humankind, but damaging to multilateralism, international law and carefully built trust between nations,” the Minister said.

The Paris Agreement is aimed at strengthening the global response to the threat of climate change by keeping a global temperature rise this century well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase even further to 1.5°C.

“The Paris Agreement is premised on a common and very strong understanding that we all have a common responsibility to act, whilst noting that nations over time have contributed to the problem differently, and have varied capabilities to respond. 

“Historically, the US has contributed very significantly to global emissions, still having the highest cumulative historical emissions, and therefore to global warming and the climate crisis we all face. 

“Therefore, Americans have a pressing moral obligation not only to lead in reducing emissions, but to support developing economies in contributing to the global effort, and to provide support to poor countries experiencing the impacts of climate change,” the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment said.

The department said during the recent 29th United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP 29), the United States committed to reduce emissions and its recently communicated mitigation target for 2035. 

“It appears now that these commitments will not be upheld. We hope that this is not the case. The United States has been a leader in both the science of climate change and in technological innovation underpinning the global response to climate change. 

“We recognise the outstanding contribution made to the fight against climate change in the US by past Administrations, states, cities, scientific organisations, civil society, business and ordinary Americans. 

“We applaud the continuing efforts of US citizens and non-state actors to address the climate crisis with the diligence, creativity and imagination we have come to expect,” the department said.

South Africa reiterated its unwavering commitment to the realisation of the goals set out in the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and its Paris Agreement. 

“We must and we will seize this moment to innovate and drive forward sustainable solutions. The global effort to curb climate change and address its impacts cannot be put on hold. There is an urgent need for action. We remain hopeful that the momentum of the collective effort to address climate change will only accelerate. 

“The international community regards climate change as the single biggest threat to wellbeing, health and socio-economic development currently facing humanity. Its impact is widespread, unprecedented and places a disproportionate and unjust burden on the poorest and most vulnerable in our country, our continent and globally. 

“In 2024, the world breached for the first time the critical threshold of 1.5 °C of global warming, signalling the urgency of immediate and strong climate action to avoid increasingly dangerous climate change impacts,” the department said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 14:13

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Ministers and CEOs to Convene at Invest Africa’s 12th Annual Mining Series

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Invest Africa
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Invest Africa (www.InvestAfrica.com), a leading pan-African trade and investment platform, is excited to announce Aon as the Headline Partner for its 12th Annual Mining Series alongside Mining Indaba 2025. With demand for transition metals expected to grow fivefold by 2050 as the world shifts to cleaner energy, Africa's mining sector will play a pivotal role in driving the global energy transition. Mining Series 2025 will convene government leaders, industry experts, and investors to examine how Africa can leverage its resources for sustainable and inclusive growth in an ever-evolving global market.

Confirmed speakers include: Mr Dean William Macpherson, Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Republic of South Africa; Dr Kgosientsho David Ramokgopa, Minister of Electricity, Republic of South Africa; H.E. Antony Phillipson, High Commissioner to South Africa, United Kingdom; Marna Cloete, President, Ivanhoe Mines; Marie-Chantal Kaninda, President, Glencore DRC; and Brian Menell, Chairman and CEO, TechMet; alongside other prominent leaders from government and industry [(for the full programme, click here (https://apo-opa.co/3PNtMr8)].

"The mining sector is at a crossroads as it navigates the dual challenges of accelerating demand for transition metals and the need for greater sustainability and transparency," said Dr Nolwandle Mgoqi, Chief Executive Officer, Aon South Africa. "Africa holds the key to powering the energy transition, but unlocking this potential requires a forward-thinking approach to risk management, resilient supply chains, and transformative technology. Aon is honoured to partner with Invest Africa in fostering critical dialogue and innovative solutions to shape the future of mining."

“We're seeing a tremendous appetite for investment in Africa's mining sector,” said Chantelé Carrington, Chief Executive Officer, Invest Africa. "Through the Mining Series, our mission is to shine a spotlight on opportunities across the continent and catalyse partnerships that unleash the full potential of Africa's resources while ensuring sustainable and inclusive growth."

Invest Africa is deeply grateful to all our partners for their support of the 12th Annual Mining Series, including: Absa, Afreximbank, Africa Finance Corporation, Aon, Black Mountain, Growth Gateway, Loinette Capital, Premier Invest, and S-RM.

To register for the 12th Annual Mining Series, please click here (https://apo-opa.co/4jtTWg4).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Invest Africa.

For media enquiries, contact: 
george.meadows@investafrica.com 
+2776891975 

About Invest Africa:
Invest Africa is a leading business and investment platform with over sixty years of expertise in Africa, dedicated to connecting businesses with unique opportunities across the continent. Our global network comprises more than 400 member companies, including multinationals, private equity firms, institutional investors, development finance institutions, professional service providers, government bodies, and entrepreneurs.

With chapters in Kenya, South Africa, the UAE, the UK, and the US, we leverage our global reach, market intelligence, and extensive network to support and connect businesses. Our mission is to drive socio-economic growth by facilitating sustainable capital flows and providing strategic insights through our membership, consultancy services, and dynamic events programme.

Read moreMinisters and CEOs to Convene at Invest Africa’s 12th Annual Mining Series

32 Young African Researchers Build Their Data Analysis Skills at the 2025 Afrobarometer Summer School and Thematic Workshop

Location: News
Afrobarometer

Thirty-two young African researchers from 14 countries are sharpening their research and analysis skills at the 2025 Afrobarometer (www.Afrobarometer.org) English-language Summer School and Thematic Workshop, hosted at the University of Cape Town in South Africa. More than half of the programme's participants are women, underscoring Afrobarometer's dedication to empowering women.

Afrobarometer's Summer School is an introductory-level analysis course that equips young African scholars with essential skills in research design, survey methodology, and data analysis, focusing on public attitudes towards democracy, governance, and other critical areas. The 2025 Summer School, taking place from 13 to 31 January, will give participants the opportunity to explore a range of topics, including perspectives on climate change, support for military rule or democracy, and attitudes towards refugees, free trade and open borders, access to healthcare, and women's participation.

The two-week intermediate Thematic Workshop, running from 20 January to 2 February, focuses on developing more advanced data collection and analysis skills among African researchers, fostering impactful research and strengthening research networks across African institutions.

According to Jason Owen, Afrobarometer capacity building manager (advanced track), the Summer School and Thematic Workshop serve as vital platforms for capacity building, collaboration, and the advancement of research that addresses Africa's pressing governance challenges.

“By building a new generation of scholars and facilitating the production of analytical outputs that make use of Afrobarometer's extensive open access datasets, we continue to amplify African voices and contribute to data-driven policymaking across the continent,” he said.

Participants are optimistic about the workshop's transformative impact.

“As a humanitarian and development communication specialist, I work with communities and policy-makers to address political engagement issues among refugees and internally displaced people,” said Ruth Nakayima, research assistant and communication officer at Hatchile Consult Ltd and Plan International Uganda. “This workshop will build my capacities to understand geopolitics and to use data for social development.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afrobarometer.

For more information, please contact:
Asafika Mpako
Communications coordinator for Southern Africa
Email: ampako@afrobarometer.org
Telephone: +27 83 979 8299

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Visit us online at www.Afrobarometer.org
Follow our releases on #VoicesAfrica

About Afrobarometer:
Afrobarometer (AB) is a trusted source of high-quality data and analysis on what Africans are thinking. With an unmatched track record of 380,000+ interviews in 42 countries, representing the views of 80% of the African population, AB is leading the charge to bridge the continent's data gap. AB data inform many global indices, such as the Ibrahim Index of African Governance, Transparency International's Global Corruption Barometer, and the World Bank's Worldwide Governance Indicators. The data are also used for country risk analyses and by credit rating and forecasting agencies such as the Economist Intelligence Unit. All AB data sets are publicly available on the website (www.Afrobarometer.org/) and may be analysed free of charge using AB's online data analysis tool (https://apo-opa.co/3WvFqdZ).

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President Ramaphosa calls on nations to work together

Location: News

President Ramaphosa calls on nations to work together

President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged nations to work together to tackle a multitude of challenges facing the global economy, highlighting rising debt and climate change impacts, as burning issues. 

He was giving a special address to the 55th World Economic Forum in Davos on Tuesday as Head of State and in his capacity as the President of the G20. 

He called for collective efforts to rid the world of current conflicts causing untold pain and suffering to those affected.

“As we confront the challenges of the 21st century – from climate change to pandemics, from poverty to terrorism, from migration to artificial intelligence – we are again called upon to harness that most powerful, and that most enduring, of human attributes: mutually beneficial cooperation and collaboration. 

“This is a time of rising geopolitical tensions, unilateralism, nationalism, protectionism, isolationism, rising debt levels affecting poor countries in the world and a declining sense of common purpose,” the President said. 

The President emphasised that without cooperation and collaboration between individuals, groups, peoples and nations, humanity cannot progress.

“This is a moment when we should be standing together as a global community to resolve the problems that confront humanity by ending the wars and conflicts that are causing such hardship and misery to many people around the world.

“We are called upon by the exigency of the moment to act together with greater urgency to halt the destruction of our planet,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa further emphasised that this is a moment where countries should harness the abundant resources they collectively possess and the remarkable technologies that human ingenuity has produced to overcome poverty and inequality, unemployment, especially youth unemployment, and the abuse of women, "once and for all". 

Important to meet needs of present without compromising future

He emphasised that countries must meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. 

“It is therefore in the interests of all countries to act with greater urgency to reduce global emissions and for industrialised countries to support the climate actions that poorer countries must necessarily take in line with and in support of decisions of UN climate change summits,” he said. 

In addition to huge gaps in economic capabilities and levels of human development, the President said countries of the Global South face a lack of predictable financing for development and climate change, high levels of debt and vulnerability to pandemics.

“Debt sustainability for low-income countries is one of the four priorities of South Africa’s G20 Presidency. In the world we inhabit today, the pursuit of equality and the practice of solidarity cannot be separated from sustainable development,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 01/22/2025 - 12:33

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