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Government thanks SA for tuning into Presidential Inauguration

Location: News

Government thanks SA for tuning into Presidential Inauguration

Government has extended its deepest and most sincere appreciation to all South Africans who joined the 2024 Presidential Inauguration in person, on television, radio and online to witness a very important and momentous occasion in the nation's history.

“Your participation has been very instrumental in making the event successful and memorable,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said on Wednesday.

Government also extended its deepest gratitude to all visitors and dignitaries who graced this auspicious occasion with their presence and support.

“The presence of all attendees added significance to the Presidential Inauguration, and it showed continued commitment to the country's growth and development. The attendance by various Heads of State and Government was a testament to the solidarity and support the country receives from the global community,” GCIS said.

GCIS Acting Director-General, Nomonde Mnukwa, said government will continue to work tirelessly to build a brighter future for all South Africans in the seventh administration and beyond.

"Today, we celebrated not just a new President, but a new chapter in our nation's history. We recognise that this moment is not just about individuals, but also about the collective progress that we have made and continue to make as a nation.

“The Government of South Africa is dedicated to building a capable and honest administration that serves all South Africans and remains steadfast in its mission to work together to overcome any challenges that face us,” Mnukwa said.

South Africans are encouraged to continue to work with government to strengthen social cohesion and build a united nation, where every citizen has equal opportunities to thrive.

“Working together, let us continue to move forward with renewed purpose and commitment to build a better South Africa for all,” GCIS said.

READ | ‘We have heard you’ – President

–SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Fri, 06/21/2024 - 09:48

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Read moreGovernment thanks SA for tuning into Presidential Inauguration

Philip Myburgh’s brainchild “The Dance of the Footnote” is a celebration of the enduring ethos of Rugby. The lead single, “Let Us Sing,” is an uplifting homage to a sport that captivates hearts around the world.

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

Emerging lyricist Philip Myburgh, in collaboration with a group of talented artists, releases “Let Us Sing” from his highly anticipated album, “The Dance of the Footnote.” Following the release of the first two tracks, “Sinani” and “Mama wam” – the collection features 20 carefully crafted songs, with “Let Us Sing” promising to resonate with a …

Read morePhilip Myburgh’s brainchild “The Dance of the Footnote” is a celebration of the enduring ethos of Rugby. The lead single, “Let Us Sing,” is an uplifting homage to a sport that captivates hearts around the world.

The ultimate celebration of design excellence, 100% Design Africa will set Joburg’s design scene ablaze

Location: MyPR

Where brands are launched, trends are set and the future of design is shaped: 100% Design Africa is the peak of innovation and inspiration, igniting passion and pushing boundaries in the world of design. This beacon of contemporary design, well known as a launch pad for exciting new products and rising local brands, as well …

Read moreThe ultimate celebration of design excellence, 100% Design Africa will set Joburg’s design scene ablaze

Transnet appoints COO

Location: News

Transnet appoints COO

Transnet has appointed experienced and respected logistics manager, Lekau ‘Solly’ Letsoalo as Group Chief Operating Officer - effective from next month.

Letsoalo is a former Chief Operating Officer of Transnet Port Terminals and has spent at least 14 years in the private sector as managing director at Aveng Manufacturing and, more recently, as Chief Executive Officer of Cargo Carriers.

Transnet Group Chief Executive Michelle Phillips said: “It is great to welcome Letsoalo back to Transnet and to be able to draw on his global knowledge of the logistics industry at such an important time in our organisation’s history”.

The state utility added that Letsoalo’s global experience also stands him in good stead.

“Mr Letsoalo has extensive knowledge of Transnet’s business operations. While at TPT, he achieved significant milestones such as expanding the Pier 2 Container Terminal, constructing the Pier 1 terminal, building the Ngqura Container Terminal, and modernising the Cape Town Container Terminal.

“His global exposure, including learning experiences in the USA, UK, Belgium, Germany, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Japan, have further enriched his leadership capabilities,” Transnet said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

 

 

 

NeoB
Thu, 06/20/2024 - 13:49

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Hydrogen Energy Technologies to Drive Demand for Africa’s Platinum Group Metals (PGMs)

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

The global market for platinum group metals (PGMs) – which include platinum, palladium, rhodium, iridium, osmium and ruthenium – will record a 4.47% increase between now and 2029, according to market research firm Mordor Intelligence. In part, market growth will come from growing demand for PGMs in green technologies, including hydrogen energy technologies, in turn generating opportunities across Africa's mining and hydrogen value chains.

https://apo-opa.co/3Rzawim

The Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) Summit, taking place on November 6-7 in Cape Town, will unpack the nexus between PGMs and green hydrogen and their evolving role within the African and global energy transition. The continent is home to the world's largest PGM reserves, with South Africa alone possessing over 80% of global resources and Zimbabwe also holding substantial reserves. These metals play a vital role in fuel cell technology, enabling the production of electricity from hydrogen and oxygen. As African countries – including Namibia, South Africa, Mauritania and Egypt – intensify their green hydrogen activities, long-term PGM demand is expected to grow substantially, powering a wide range of applications from hydrogen fuel cell vehicles to stationary power generation to industrial processes.

Africa's Green Hydrogen Potential

The African continent holds substantial potential for green hydrogen production given its abundance of co-located renewable resources. According to the European Investment Bank, Africa has the potential to produce 50 million tons of green hydrogen per annum by 2035, which could help meet power, transportation and industrial energy needs, decarbonize heavy-polluting industries, as well as be used for global export.

Namibia represents a pioneer of green hydrogen on the continent, having secured billions in investment for green hydrogen projects from various investors, including the USAID, the Development Bank of Southern Africa and Japanese investment firm ITOCHU. Green energy firm Hyphen Hydrogen Energy is implementing a $10-billion project, with the capacity to produce 350,000 metric tons per year using 7 GW of renewable energy and 3 GW of hydrogen electrolyzers. Last May, Belgian port operator Antwerp Bruges partnered with the Namibian Ports Authority to develop a EUR 250-million hydrogen and ammonia storage facility at Walvis Bay Port to facilitate the transport of hydrogen to regional and global markets.  

Realizing the potential of green hydrogen to drive regional energy security, South African tourism, trade and investment agency Wesgro signed an agreement last month with the Northern Cape Economic Development, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency, Namibia's Environmental Investment Fund and infrastructure company Gasunie and Climate Fund Managers. The agreement paves the way for the parties to assess the feasibility of developing a green hydrogen corridor connecting the Western Cape and Northern Cape provinces of South Africa with Lüderitz in Namibia.

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Furthermore, green energy companies Hive Energy UK and Genesis Eco-Energy are developing a R105 billion green hydrogen and ammonia project in the Coega Special Economic Zone in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The project will add 14,400 MW of electricity to the grid and produce 900,000 tons of green ammonia for export to global markets, increasing the country's export revenue. South Africa has also established a $1-billion fund in partnership with the Netherlands, aimed at accelerating the deployment of green hydrogen projects to feed growing demand in Europe.

https://apo-opa.co/3xdxaWM

Private and public sector entities in South Africa are demonstrating the potential for synergy between PGMs and green hydrogen, specifically in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Last October, mining firm Anglo American entered into a partnership with automotive firm BMW South Africa and international energy firm Sasol to develop South Africa's PGMs and green hydrogen value chains. Anglo American will provide PGMs used in hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles, while Sasol will provide the green hydrogen and BMW the vehicles.

https://apo-opa.co/3XBI9UJ

As global demand for green hydrogen rises due to carbon emission reduction policies and growing energy needs, a parallel surge in PGMs demand is also anticipated. Given that Africa is home to the overwhelming majority of these critical minerals, CMA 2024 will explore the latest policies, projects and developments ensuring that the continent capitalizes on green hydrogen as a key growth driver.

Organized by Energy Capital & Power, CMA is the largest gathering of critical mineral stakeholders in Africa. Taking place from November 6 – 7 in Cape Town, the event positions Africa as the primary investment destination for critical minerals. This year's edition takes place under the theme Innovate, Enact, Invest in African Critical Minerals to Sustain Global Growth, connecting African mining projects and regulators with global investors and stakeholders to untap the full potential of the continent's raw materials. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

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

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Cape Town Initiative ‘Love Wins’ Targets Urgent Need for GBV Intervention

Location: MyPR

Neil Matthews, a 46-year-old businessman from Gardens, Cape Town, is pioneering a vital initiative to combat gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa—where the rates of violence against women and children are among the highest globally. At his day job at YAXXA, a business solutions company, Matthews is leveraging his professional resources and personal passion to …

Read moreCape Town Initiative ‘Love Wins’ Targets Urgent Need for GBV Intervention

A slight improvement for South Africa ‘s global competitiveness

Location: MyPR

A look at South Africa ‘s competitiveness in 2024 Productivity SA in collaboration with Switzerland ‘s Institute of Management Development (IMD) will release the 2024 World Competitiveness Yearbook Survey (WCY) virtually on Thursday 20 June 2024 from 10h00-12h00. The survey will outline South Africa ‘s performance and also indicate South Africa ‘s competitiveness rating. The …

Read moreA slight improvement for South Africa ‘s global competitiveness

SA is living on borrowed ecological resources

Location: MyPR

20 June marks South Africa’s Earth Overshoot Day – the day when our consumption of ecological resources exceeds the planet’s capacity to regenerate them for that year. Jako Volschenk, Associate Professor in Strategy and Sustainability at Stellenbosch Business School emphasises the critical imbalance between our demand and nature’s capacity. “Earth Overshoot Day is a wake-up …

Read moreSA is living on borrowed ecological resources

Exciting New Leadership Appointed at Minor Hotels in Zambia and Mozambique

Location: MyPR

New Hotel Managers and Executive Chef set to enhance guest experience Africa, June 2024: Minor Hotels, an international hotel owner, operator, and investor with more than 540 hotels in 56 countries in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian Ocean, Europe and the Americas, is thrilled to announce the appointment of exceptional new Hotel …

Read moreExciting New Leadership Appointed at Minor Hotels in Zambia and Mozambique

How to Land Public Relations Freelancing Jobs as a Student

Location: MyPR

Public Relations (PR) is a dynamic field that offers numerous opportunities for students to gain valuable experience and earn money through freelancing. For students looking to kickstart their PR freelancing career, volunteering to promote and write for a deserving charity can be an excellent starting point. We at MyPR will provide detailed suggestions on how …

Read moreHow to Land Public Relations Freelancing Jobs as a Student

Clearing the Air: The Impact of Battery-Operated Tools on Our Health and Environment

Location: MyPR

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), a shocking 99% of the global population is affected by unhealthy air. Added to that, research also shows that noise pollution is now linked to increased risks of heart disease, stroke and dementia. These alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for both businesses and individuals to take action …

Read moreClearing the Air: The Impact of Battery-Operated Tools on Our Health and Environment

Youth challenged to find innovative solutions for water problems

Location: News

Youth challenged to find innovative solutions for water problems

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, has challenged the youth to help find solutions to the global water woes.

Mahlobo made the call during the Wetskills Challenge Awards Ceremony held at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in eThekwini on Wednesday.

The Deputy Minister officiated the Wetskills Challenge, a two-week programme for students and young professionals with a passion for water from all over the globe to work in transdisciplinary and transcultural teams on challenging water cases. 

The participants’ challenge is to find innovative solutions for the water challenges facing the world.

Several teams competed for the number one spot and came up with solutions to various topics, including water security within the green hydrogen industry; developing a business model for non-governmental organisations, and innovative sanitation solutions in schools.

Speaking at the event, Mahlobo reminded the youth that science must be used for humanity, and that they will help to find solutions to the global water woes. 

Mahlobo said he trusts that with the calibre of young men and women who participated in the challenge, the future of the water sector is in good hands. 

“Your trade is about humanity and humanity is to improve conditions. We all have shared aspirations and dreams. 

“We all want to live in peace and harmony, with development. At this point, we are carrying a treasure and inheritance for the next generations, as we inherited from our forebearers,” Mahlobo said.

He called on government to create opportunities for the ideas presented to be realised, and to foster talent and innovation.

“What we need to do is to support you in implementing the strategies you have come up with, and create pace for your development and an opportunity to pilot these ideas. As government, we need to say, ‘now that the seed has been planted, how do we water and nurture it?',” Mahlobo said.

The Deputy Minister congratulated the winners who came up with solutions to the pit latrine problem in rural areas in South Africa.

Emerald Reddy, Rafael Tembe, Shongile Chauke and Tasmiyah Ismail presented a study that investigates integrating the innovative Larvae'd toilet system with the existing WASH solution in South Africa's rural schools. 

The proposed solution aims to resolve these facilities with sustainable and hygienic sanitation solutions. 

The team said the innovation will leverage community involvement and the use of recycled materials. 

The initiative also ensures students health and safety, and explores business for those who will be supplying for the schools. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 06/14/2024 - 08:52

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Read moreYouth challenged to find innovative solutions for water problems

Unleashing Conversational Alchemy The Ursula Mariani Perspective

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

In the dynamic realm of podcasting, where voices transcend boundaries and ideas spark revolutions, one name stands out as a beacon of conversational alchemy: Ursula Mariani. Host, co-producer, devoted mother, lecturer, and relentless podcaster, Ursula embodies the essence of meaningful dialogue and transformative encounters. At the core of Ursula’s ethos lies a simple yet profound …

Read moreUnleashing Conversational Alchemy The Ursula Mariani Perspective

Tobacco use in SA remains high, with smokers starting at a younger age

Location: News

Tobacco use in SA remains high, with smokers starting at a younger age

The prevalence of smoking in South Africa remains high compared to other countries, with an average of 8.5 cigarettes smoked per day by daily smokers.

This information is based on the 2021 Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) South Africa report, released by the Department of Health on Thursday.

Based on the most recent data from GATS, sampled from 7 245 households, it was found that the prevalence of tobacco use in South Africa is 29.4%.

The data also revealed that a higher percentage of men (41.7%) are currently using tobacco compared to women (17.9%).

Lead investigator, Dr Catherine Egbe from the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), stated that 21.2% of adults in South Africa smoke daily, while 4.6% smoke occasionally.

The highest prevalence of tobacco is found in the Northern Cape, followed by the Western Cape, while the lowest is in Limpopo.

Shifting her focus to the age of initiation of tobacco use, Egbe said the average age of initiation was 17.6 years old among adults aged between 20 and 34. 

Meanwhile, 20.9% of urban residents and 13.5% of rural residents initiated smoking before the age of 15. 

In addition, Egbe stated that 33.9% of daily tobacco users smoke within five minutes of waking up. 

E-cigarettes and hookah pipe

Meanwhile, 2.2% said they were currently using e-cigarettes, of which 3.8% are men and 0.7% are women. 

Of those using e-cigarettes, 70.3% cited enjoyment, 67.5% cited flavour, 45.1% perceived it as less harmful than tobacco, while 43.5% said their use was influenced by friends or family members who use e-cigarettes. 

The study also found that 3.1% of adults reported smoking hookah pipe or hubbly bubbly. 

“The mean age of initiation for those who have ever smoked water pipe was 21.1 years,” Egbe said. 

For those aged between 15 and 24, the average age of initiation was 17.3 years old. 

Quitting

Among adults currently smoking tobacco, 80.9% attempted to quit without assistance, 4.1% used pharmacotherapy, and 42.9% received advice to stop from their healthcare provider.

Data also shows that 74.4% of adults who visited public places were exposed to second-hand smoke (SHS) at bars, taverns, shebeens or nightclubs. 

Meanwhile, 19.9% were exposed to SHS at school, 16.0% at tertiary institutions and 11.3% in cafes. 

Data indicates that men spent slightly more on cigarettes, R273.20, while women spent around R207.20 monthly. 

Government interventions

The Department of Health’s Deputy Director of General Primary Healthcare, Jeanette Hunter, has noted an increase in the use of hookah, e-cigarettes and vapes, particularly among young people.

“Studies have highlighted health risks associated with the use of e-cigarettes and hookah pipes, hubbly bubbly or shisha, even though they are aggressively marketed as healthier tobacco alternatives,” Hunter said. 

She said scientists have provided enough evidence for countries to act and put measures in place to curb the use of these new-generation products.  

“It is for this reason that we, as a country, amended the existing Tobacco Product Control Act, Act 83 of 1993 to incorporate the control of the use of electronic delivery systems. This amendment Bill is at the stage of going through Parliamentary processes.” 

Hunter also raised concerns about citizens who are now starting to smoke at a younger age. 

“Disappointingly, it reveals that a small percentage, only 42.9% of smokers, were advised by a healthcare provider to quit smoking.” 

Hunter said the department has since identified the need to establish tobacco cessation programmes in primary healthcare facilities and that the feasibility of such programmes is being explored. 

Hunter also highlighted the importance of the proposed ban on smoking in enclosed spaces after it was found that 44.5% of adults in South Africa are exposed to SHS. 

Meanwhile, as part of the recommendations, Egbe emphasised the importance of implementing tobacco taxes, smoke-free laws, graphic health warnings, and total bans on tobacco advertising and promotion to reduce smoking initiation, particularly among young people.

“Effective strategies to reduce tobacco use, including putting in place more comprehensive laws that are compliant with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, should be implemented to protect more people from exposure to SHS, and provide cessation services to help more people who smoke to quit,” Egbe said. 

In addition, Egbe believes that if Parliament were to pass the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill of 2022, it would help reduce long-term tobacco use and the burden of tobacco-related diseases. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 12:21

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Clearworld Suppliers In Partnership With Sanpellegrino And Acqua Panna Launch Groundbreaking Upliftment Scholarship Programme With Sommeliers Academy In South Africa

Location: MyPR

Clearworld Suppliers along with Sanpellegrino and Acqua Panna have collaborated with the Sommeliers Academy, to introduce the pioneering Upliftment Scholarship Programme in South Africa. This initiative aims to elevate the standard of service in South African restaurants and bar venues to an international level. Administered by the Sommeliers Academy, this dynamic Scholarship Programme is designed …

Read moreClearworld Suppliers In Partnership With Sanpellegrino And Acqua Panna Launch Groundbreaking Upliftment Scholarship Programme With Sommeliers Academy In South Africa

Reload Logistics Unveils New Brand Identity and Major Expansions

Location: Business
Reload Logistics

Reload Logistics (www.ReloadLogistics.com/), a leading provider of end-to-end supply chain solutions, proudly unveils its new brand identity to better align with its innovative, modern approach to logistics. Founded in 2007, Reload has been strategically amassing assets across major routes and ports in Sub-Saharan Africa to provide clients with the most flexible and accessible solutions in the market.

The new brand embodies Reload's commitment to constant innovation, ensuring clients receive the most efficient and forward-thinking solutions for their cargo. This fresh visual identity reflects the company's ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in the supply chain sector.

Reload Logistics is rapidly accelerating its growth with an already vast asset portfolio, including warehouses, trucks, and rail capabilities across all major routes and ports in Sub-Saharan Africa, providing end-to-end services to global clients. In addition to the rebranding, several key developments will enhance Reload's capabilities and service offerings:

Expansion of RGT Warehouse in Zambia: The RGT facility in Zambia has expanded to a total storage capacity of 80,000 sqm, with 60,000 sqm of covered storage and a 20,000 sqm secure bonded yard. This expansion provides Reload Logistics' clients with more efficient cargo handling and ample space for diverse commodities.

Sulphur Bulk Terminal in Richards Bay: Reload has invested in a 50,000 sqm Sulphur Bulk Terminal in Richards Bay, South Africa. This strategic addition complements the company's extensive portfolio, which includes a fleet of over 1,000 trucks, 200 wagons, and more than 1 million sqm of warehousing space across 13 countries.

Acquisition of Five Locomotives: To enhance service capabilities, Reload Logistics has acquired five diesel-electric mainline freight and passenger locomotives. These locomotives enable the company to handle larger cargo volumes, ensure timely deliveries, and offer greater routing flexibility while reducing its carbon footprint with energy-efficient technology.

"We are excited to unveil our new brand identity," said Roger Graham, Chief Marketing Officer of Reload Logistics. "This new look represents our growth and innovation. Our expansions and acquisitions underscore our commitment to providing top-tier service enabled by our forward-thinking solutions designed for our clients."

Visit our new website at www.ReloadLogistics.com to explore the refreshed brand and discover how Reload Logistics can provide tailored solutions for your logistics needs.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Reload Logistics.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Roger Graham 
Chief Marketing Officer
Email: brand@reloadlogistics.com

About Reload Logistics:
Reload Logistics is one of Africa's leading providers of end-to-end supply chain solutions for metals, minerals, soft commodities, and project cargo. With over 1,000 trucks, rail wagons, and more than 1 million sqm of storage, Reload Logistics operates in more than 13 countries, providing seamless freight solutions across Africa, Asia, and Europe. Fueled by cutting-edge technology, Reload Logistics ensures real-time updates for clients in challenging supply chain environments, reaffirming its position as an industry innovator.

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Tennis SA And American Express To Host Wimbledon Fan Park In Johannesburg: The Amex Tennis Town

Location: MyPR

Following the announcement of their multi-year partnership in March 2024, Tennis South Africa (TSA) and American Express are pleased to host the Amex Tennis Town, a fan park during The Championships, Wimbledon 2024. American Express is operated in South Africa through its licensee Nedbank. The Amex Tennis Town will be held from 5 to 14 …

Read moreTennis SA And American Express To Host Wimbledon Fan Park In Johannesburg: The Amex Tennis Town

Rebel with a Cause: Melanie Campbell takes a seat at the helm at RAPT Creative

Location: MyPR

RAPT Group welcomes aboard Melanie Campbell as Partner: Group Strategy, effective from July 1. Campbell, with over 26 years of comprehensive experience in marketing and business transformation across diverse international markets, brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective to RAPT. In her own words, Campbell describes herself as “an empathetic maverick.” She explains: …

Read moreRebel with a Cause: Melanie Campbell takes a seat at the helm at RAPT Creative

Pandor believes BRICS has opportunity to shape a ‘refreshed’ global order

Location: News

Pandor believes BRICS has opportunity to shape a 'refreshed' global order

The world is at a crucial turning point, requiring decisive leadership and innovative ideas, and BRICS has a unique opportunity to influence a refreshed global order.

This is according to International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, who spoke in Russia on Tuesday.

“The BRICS bloc is a legitimate voice of the global South regarding global governance reform. We also remain a critical player in global agenda setting for economic, political and social cooperation,” Pandor said. 

The Foreign Ministers from the expanded BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) group of nations met for a two-day meeting focused on current international relations, global governance reform and conflict resolution.

The meeting, chaired by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, is the first since the bloc expanded in 2023 to include Egypt, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Ethiopia. 

The Minister believes that the expansion of BRICS is evidence of the bloc’s growing importance and the critical role of cooperation in collectively promoting the shared interests and values of emerging and developing countries.

“It also signals our hunger for a body in the globe that embraces progressive ideals and seeks to alter the current nature of international relations to a more inclusive, equitable and development-oriented world.”

She told her colleagues that the “current complex divided global environment” demands that BRICS continue to advocate for multilateralism to play a critical role in fostering stability and cooperation in times of significant geopolitical uncertainty.  

“Therefore, for our collective, multilateralism remains the only solution to successfully address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, underdevelopment, climate change, migration, disease, human trafficking, terrorism, and hunger, and to ensure an environment of sustainable peace and continuous development.  

“I am convinced that our mutually beneficial cooperation through BRICS uplifts communities instead of increasing their vulnerability,” she added. 

The Minister said it is evident that the world is currently falling short of achieving the development goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 

This, she said, was due to increased economic risk for the most vulnerable and persistent low growth for those with the greatest need. 

“We have to urgently accelerate our collective action to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.” 

South Africa, Pandor stressed, is committed to a successful Summit of the Future. 

“We are convinced that it could support efforts that bridge the development divide and provide new solutions to tomorrow’s challenges. 

“We believe the summit presents an opportunity to revitalise the multilateral system and fulfil our promises to reform the current system of global governance to make it more representative and inclusive for everyone,” Pandor said. – SAnews.gov.za 

 

Gabisile
Tue, 06/11/2024 - 13:07

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Read morePandor believes BRICS has opportunity to shape a ‘refreshed’ global order

Arrival of the famous Sardine Run concludes Scottburgh’s Ocean Festival programme

Location: MyPR

For the second year running, the globally renowned Sardine Run arrived on the final day of the Ocean Festival on the KZN South Coast’s Scottburgh. This is a fitting gesture for the festival, which commemorates World Oceans Day (8 June) while encouraging ocean conservation through its themes ‘Engagement, Education, and Economics’. The dynamic event programme, …

Read moreArrival of the famous Sardine Run concludes Scottburgh’s Ocean Festival programme

Call to end Palestinian suffering

Location: News

Call to end Palestinian suffering

South Africa will continue to do everything within its power to preserve the existence of the Palestinian people as a group, and to end all acts of apartheid and genocide.

This is according to the International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, who spoke in Russia on Tuesday.

The Foreign Ministers from the expanded BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) group of nations met for a two-day meeting focused on current international relations, global governance reform and conflict resolution.

Pandor told her colleagues that South Africa welcomes the order by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) of 24 May 2024, ordering Israel to halt military action in Rafah. 

“We see the provisional measures ordered by the court thus far as a signal of a decisive victory for the international rule of law and a significant milestone in the search for justice for the Palestinian people. 

“Nevertheless, the injury to International Human Rights Law, inflicted by Israel, remains significant. We, therefore, call on the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court to also act to ensure accountability for those committing war crimes.” 

The meeting, chaired by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, is the first since the bloc expanded in 2023 to include Egypt, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia.

Pandor reiterated South Africa’s call for a two-State solution, which is of the view that it would bring lasting peace and address the root causes of the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. 

“A solution is long overdue, and an agreement must urgently be negotiated. The agreement must result in the establishment of an independent and viable Palestinian State, based on 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital that exists side by side, in peace and security with Israel.” 

She also echoed the country’s firm support for the full membership of Palestine as a member State of the United Nations (UN).

“Please allow me also to again emphasise the urgent need for BRICS to contribute to the reform of the UN Security Council. The inability of the Security Council to act and respond effectively to conflict situations such as in Gaza further supports the sentiments of this urgent call to reform.” 

She called on all UN member States to support Africa’s call for the historic injustice committed against the continent to be “remedied” through an acknowledgement of the role it plays in current global affairs.

Delaying reform of the Security Council, she said, presents serious negative implications for the multilateral system, undermining the credibility of global peace and security and threatening to reverse the gains made in the past 78 years.

“Please allow me to conclude my intervention today with a sincere call to all of us to capitalise on the current opportunities for partnership in this meeting and to tackle global challenges that stand in our way towards a stronger and more empowered global South in a stable multipolar world.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 06/11/2024 - 13:37

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Read moreCall to end Palestinian suffering