Parliament unimpressed by NSFAS’s turnaround region
Student funding scheme given seven working days to answer portfolio committee’s questions
Government
Grant beneficiaries queue at ATMs as KZN post offices sprint out of cash
“In the 90s, the Post Office was reliable but now it seems as if everything is falling apart,” says KwaMashu pensioner
“I feel like disabled people are not seen or heard”
People living with disabilities in Delft air their grievances on Thursday
Minister Zulu receives review report on child support grant
Minister Zulu receives review report on child support grant
The Child Poverty and the Child Support Grant (CSG) Review Report not only serves as a barometer, but it is an invitation to found, strengthen and activate multilateral partnerships that will undo child poverty in all communities.
This is according to Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu, who received the review report on Friday in Johannesburg, Gauteng.
“The Review Report is a challenge to all of us to inspire hope, thereby ensuring a brighter future for all children. To reinforce the CSG’s continued relevance, the department is currently working on a policy through which we will be integrating the receipt of children's grants with government’s other basic services in the very near future.
“This policy will ensure that these beneficiaries, namely children, will benefit from receiving the diverse bouquet of government’s interventions that will necessarily improve their human development and dignity,” Zulu said.
In 2021, the Department of Social Development commissioned the Children’s Institute at the University of Cape Town to conduct a comprehensive review of child poverty and the value of the Child Support Grant (CSG).
In its effort to ensure that the right to access social assistance is afforded to all those who are unable to take care of themselves, the South African government has, through the Department of Social Development, rolled out a massive social assistance programme, the most notable being the CSG.
The South African Social Assistance programme stands as a globally recognised model, acknowledged for its strategic role as the nation's primary poverty alleviation initiative.
The CSG has been especially successful at reaching large numbers of poor children with relative ease, earning recognition for its pro-poor targeting among existing social grants.
To date, the 13 million children are CSG recipients to the value of R510 a month per child. In the previous financial year (2022/23), the Department of Social Development, through its entity, SASSA, allocated a budget of R77 billion for the payment of this grant.
The CSG remains one of the country’s successful poverty alleviation programmes, which plays a significant role in positive school outcomes, and research has shown that it has ensured that eligible children receiving the CSG remain in school.
While it is acknowledged that the CSG has had a significant impact in alleviating poverty, it is provided at a value too small to protect the poorest children from hunger, malnutrition, and stunting, the review noted.
In an effort to augment the current social assistance programme such that it can address the existing gaps, the Department of Social Development said it has, in the past two decades, engaged in policy reforms in the form of scaling up social assistance to cover all the vulnerable groups.
The review assessed the state of child poverty in the country, the impact of the CSG on child poverty, as well as the value of the CSG in the context of child poverty and the cost of raising a child.
The findings of the review are already indicating that poverty rates are higher for women than for men, and higher for children than adults, making it imperative therefore, going forward, to analyse child poverty rates separately, as the extent of child poverty is otherwise obscured by the overall national poverty rates.
The review also found that child poverty in South Africa remains racially and geographically distorted, wherein African children and those living in rural areas in the former homelands, are most likely to be poor.
Child food poverty was also reduced by 20 percentage points from 55% to 33% between 2003 and 2013, as the CSG coverage expanded rapidly with the age threshold being extended from 7 to 18 years.
Several studies demonstrate that the CSG has contributed to improved outcomes for child wellbeing. Furthermore between 2013 and 2019, child poverty rates remained stable and the percentage of children below the upper bound poverty line started to show improvement in 2017.
The review also records that the introduction of the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress, the caregiver allowance and top-ups to the permanent grants helped to offset increases in child poverty for a few months in 2020. It has been found that these temporary measures to boost grant income “saved” an estimated 1.2 million children from food poverty for a few months.
The review also notes that child poverty and hunger rates increased after the caregiver allowance and top-ups ended in October 2020.
It further reveals that in 2021, child poverty had risen significantly, with 37% of children (over 7 million) living in food poverty and 62% below the upper bound poverty line.
It has also been found that delays in birth registration and CSG applications during lockdown resulted in the number of babies receiving the CSG falling by about 100 000 in 2021 with no recovery to 2019 levels by March 2022.
As a result of many years of annual CSG increases below food inflation, the purchasing power of the CSG has been eroded and it no longer covers the cost of food and clothing for a child as originally intended.
The review further highlights that should the status quo continue, the gap between the value of the CSG and the food poverty line will widen further every year, with the rate and number of children living in food poverty continuing to rise.
The study, inter alia, recommends that the food poverty line - at R663/child/month - should be regarded as the absolute minimum, while the upper bound poverty line - at R1 417/child/month - should not be seen as generous. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 13:47
298 views
KZN speeds up pothole repairs
KZN speeds up pothole repairs
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has unveiled 55 new trucks, which will be used to improve the turnaround time in addressing pothole patching in the province.
The procurement of the trucks, which were unveiled at the launch of the 2023 October Transport Month campaign, is part of the commitment made by the Premier in her State of the Province Address, where she committed government to improving the provincial road network conditions.
The trucks -- fitted with the latest pothole patching technology -- will be distributed to all Department of Transport District Offices, in a “fast and effective operation”.
The trucks will comprise a team of nine people, who will be responsible for routine and safety maintenance, including pothole patching, blacktop patching, drain cleaning and verge maintenance, among other duties.
Unveiling the trucks, Dube-Ncube emphasised that the transport sector is the heartbeat of the province’s economy, and crucial in the stimulation of socio-economic development of the nation.
She said during October Transport Month, the province will advance road safety initiatives and highlight several economic empowerment initiatives.
“Under the Department of Transport, over the coming months, the province will ensure that employment intensive road maintenance programmes are increased to provide employment opportunities for more women and the vulnerable in our province. The Zibambele Maintenance Programme will create 41 000 job opportunities,” Dube-Ncube said.
This year’s October Transport Month Campaign is being rolled out under the theme: ‘Siyakha – We are building better infrastructure to grow South Africa together!’.
During this month, the Department of Transport and its entities will showcase transport infrastructure services in aviation, maritime, public transport and roads.
This month will also be used to further advance the country’s road safety initiatives, while creating awareness of the economic benefits of the sector. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 10:31
201 views
Economists warn against “chaotic budget cuts”
We’re not facing an immediate fiscal crisis, says Institute for Economic Justice
Political appointments cripple Lesotho hospital
Wage bill at flagship Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital balloons by R48-million over a year as politicians appoint family members and friends
Western Cape floods: Is climate change to blame?
It’s hard to blame global warming for a single weather event, but storms like last week’s are becoming more likely
Educators honoured at National Teaching Awards
Educators honoured at National Teaching Awards
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has reaffirmed government’s commitment to reinforcing teacher support and prioritising the professional growth of those who are the key drivers of basic education.
On behalf of the nation's people, the Deputy President saluted all teachers for their commendable and unparalleled contributions.
“Acknowledging that teaching is a labour of love and passion, as Government we are committed to reinforcing teacher support, and prioritising the professional growth of the women and men who are key drivers of basic education.
“Such a posture is critical in that it boosts their personal prowess and propels our schools towards unparalleled achievements. The wellness of all public servants in the Department of Basic Education must as such remain a priority, " he said.
The Deputy President was delivering remarks at the National Teachers’ Awards, held at the Hatfield Christian Church in Thaba Tshwane, Pretoria on Thursday.
This year marks 23 years since the first National Teachers’ Awards took place as spearheaded by the former Minister of Education, the late Professor Kader Asmal.
Mashatile said the awards will always serve as a reminder of the contributions of Professor Asmal to social transformation in South Africa, to the extent that the Lifetime Achievement Award is named after him.
The Deputy President used his address to recognise the daily achievements of teachers who quietly inspire students to overcome obstacles in life by believing in them, igniting a passion for learning in young, bright minds, and quietly planting the seeds of optimism for a better future in the classroom.
He said these are the triumphs that may not always make headlines, but carry children and youth towards the kind of prosperous society that we all envisage.
“In celebrating our teachers today, let us therefore renew our commitment to supporting them in every possible way, for in their success lies the success of our nation,” he said.
The Deputy President highlighted that unemployment, poverty and inequality are the three main challenges that plaque society today, adding that youth, women and other marginalised groups bear the brunt of these.
It is therefore, he said, the government’s responsibility to ensure that its policies are aligned across various departmental priorities.
“Our commitment to building a brighter future for our children is unwavering. We have taken note of the challenges, particularly concerning reports that our young learners struggle to read for meaning. A fundamental aspect of improving our education system hinges upon building robust foundations of literacy and numeracy from the earliest ages,” he said.
Mashatile highlighted that the system shift of Early Childhood Development (ECD) from the Department of Social Development to Basic Education is a testament to governmnet’s dedication to this cause.
He said this offers a ripe opportunity to instil these foundational competencies right from the early stages of education.
Turning to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Mashatile said it presents both challenges and opportunities for us.
With the introduction of avant-garde subjects like Coding, Robotics, Data Analytics, and Science Technology, he said government aims to keep South Africa at the forefront of global innovation.
“Our fervent belief is that by equipping our learners with these competencies, we're not only making them globally competitive but are also paving the way for a technologically advanced and prosperous nation.
“We recognise that our teachers must be equally adept and updated to achieve this. We've begun substantial investments in training programmes to ensure our educators are well-versed with emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and others.
“By doing this, we aim to cultivate a symbiotic growth pattern where our educators and learners evolve together, harnessing the boundless potential of the digital age,” he said.
Turning to climate change and the recent climatic disasters, the Deputy President said these events and others highlight the urgent need for environmental education and training in order to equip communities with the requisite skills and capacity to both respond to, and prepare for the inevitability of climate disasters.
He emphasised that education has an important role in raising awareness and changing behaviour. Globally, educators are tasked with the monumental role of raising awareness about climate change and nurturing a proactive generation in finding solutions.
“As we charter our course into this new era, the importance of a well-rounded, technologically adept, and socially responsible education cannot be emphasised enough.
“And at the heart of this mission are all the teachers of our country - those of you honoured today, and those who also dedicate themselves in earnest to the development of our children and youth through education. Let us continue on this journey, hand in hand, as we mould future generations that are equipped, empowered, and enlightened,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 13:57
389 views
Mop up operations continue across Western Cape
Mop up operations continue across Western Cape
The Western Cape Provincial Government says it has been working around the clock to re-open roads and assist communities that have been badly affected by the recent heavy rains and flooding.
Giving an update on mop up operations, Head of the Department of Infrastructure, Jacqueline Gooch, said while the province has been working around the clock to re-open the roads along with their partners, some mop up operations are taking some time to complete due to the extent of the damage.
“While main routes and alternatives to main routes are prioritised, at times, despite being a high priority, we have to wait for the flood water to subside. This is in the case where a road remains under water or where landslips have occurred. For example, both Clarence Drive and Franschhoek Pass have significant landslips, and repair work cannot commence until the slips have stabilised,” Gooch said.
Gooch explained that when prioritising the road repairs, the provincial government considers the main routes and alternatives to main routes; access to communities that have been cut off completely for humanitarian relief, food and emergency services; and roads which are of economic importance, such as those needed for movement of goods/exports, among other things.
On the estimated total cost of storm damage, Gooch said the costs for repairs cannot be confirmed at this stage, until all inspections and assessments of damage have been carried out.
“It is likely to be a considerable amount, when taking into account for example among other costs the number of bridges and roads that have been completely washed away,” she said.
Gooch urged residents to pay attention to road closure signs, as they are in place for their safety.
With saturated ground, she said, water causes expansion in certain cases and when an area dries, it contracts again.
“While much has been done in terms of mop-up operations and responding to communities’ needs, we are still in the process of our disaster response and will be for some time. As we further inspect the road network, we are discovering additional damage to infrastructure,” Gooch said.
Meanwhile, the provincial government has appealed to citizens who assist displaced families with donations in the form of blankets, water, dry and non-perishable food, baby food and toiletries.
Citizens who are able to donate towards relief efforts are requested to drop off any donations at the following offices of the SA Red Cross Society:
• Wynberg: 21 Broad Road, Wynberg
• Greyton: 11 Pointers Way, Heuwelkroon, Greyton
• Hermanus: 2A Aberdeen Street, Hermanus
• Knysna: 25 Trotter Street, Knysna
The province has expressed its appreciation to all officials, including teams on the ground and partners, for hard work thus far and the work currently underway. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 15:10
245 views
Western Cape municipality fails to keep its water clean
Kannaland also does not conduct all the water tests it is supposed to
Power Players – Africa Tech Festival’s 2023 Headliner Line-up
Africa has abundant economic potential and the enormous uptake of digital technology socially and in the business sector, has positioned the continent for explosive growth, but there are challenges that lie in wait. Many of these will be spotlighted at the 2023 Africa Tech Festival (https://apo-opa.info/3myppVu) in Cape Town 13-16 November, along with innovative solutions all led by a line-up of headline speakers including several African government ministers.
“Businesses across Africa have benefitted enormously from leap-frogging traditional technology to the digital world and wireless connectivity, and this is spurring incredible growth across the continent,” says James Williams, Director, Events | Connecting Africa | Informa Tech. “The incredible advantages of digitalisation are, however, dependent on a plentiful and reliable source of power, and it's essential that the public sector has strong strategies in place to drive this growth.”
The tech world is driven by entrepreneurial innovators, but it relies heavily on the public sector to provide infrastructure, regulations and often funding to smooth the way for technological advancement, especially in terms of providing access and infrastructure for the public to access to engage with and benefit from the technology.
Among the 200-plus speakers, presenters and panellists will be Gwede Mantashe, Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, whose input on how the South African government is tackling the critical issue of loadshedding will no doubt ensured a packed hall of delegates all hopeful of hearing positive news. The dynamic H.E. Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, South Africa's Minister in the Presidency responsible for electricity, will provide backup to the Minister in shining a light on the country's energy crisis.
Not to be missed, is the panel discussion ‘Universal Power Access: Plotting a Route Through Africa's Electricity Challenge', which puts the future of digital transformation squarely on the shoulders of electricity and citizens' access to energy.
In Africa, energy insecurity has been a chronic inhibitor of economic development for decades, and continues to cripple enterprise growth and innovation, and the panel will unpack why a staggering 30 of Africa's 54 nations face daily power shortages and supply interruptions, all of which play economic havoc with local business and consumer activity. It's important to understand how the collaboration of public and private funding is essential for striking the right balance between the two sectors to create the perfect solution to the crisis.
Also addressing delegates will be H.E. Ousmane Gaoual Diallo, the Republic of Guinea's Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, as well as Namibia's Minister of Information and Communication Technology, H.E. Minister Dr Peya Mushelenga, and their Executive Director & Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, Dr Audrin Mathe.
Another key area of public sector engagement with the tech sector will be discussed in the keynote panel ‘Unleashing Digital Prosperity: How Progressive Policy is Shaping Africa's Tech Transformation'. This session will present African Ministers from across the continent with an opportunity to share how they are tailoring policy to their unique national environment and priorities, in addition to the need for a more continental, collaborative approach.
“The process of developing and implementing policy across myriad industries and sectors is, however, an inherently complex and lengthy process and relies heavily on industry consultation, sector-specific legislation and flexibility to evolve with rapidly changing sectors,” says Williams, highlighting the importance of the growing number of Ministerial delegations at Africa Tech Festival year on year.
Among the high-level speakers sharing with delegates over the three days are:
- Dion Jerling (Co-Founder, Connect Earth)
- Richard Cazalet (Exec: Strategy and Transformation, Telkom SA)
- Robert AOUAD (CEO, ISOCEL Telecom)
- Russell Southwood (CEO, Balancing Act)
- Vuyani Tati (Managing Partner, AfriTech Catalytic Growth Fund),
- Jocelyn Nyaguse (Head of Marketing and Storytelling, Startupbootcamp AfriTech)
- Calvin Govender (General Manager ICT Fixed Services, MTN)
- Marjorie Saint-Lot (Country Manager, Ghana and the Ivory Coast, Uber)
- Evan Jones (CEO, The Collective X)
- Nfaly Sylla (Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, Republic of Guinea)
- Kellie Murungi (Chief Investments Officer, East African Power)
- John Davies (TMT Equity Research Analyst, EMEA, TMT, Bloomberg Intelligence) An expanded list of speakers is noted below).
Aside from presenting cutting-edge content and a speaker line-up of note, the Africa Tech Festival is also the meeting place of Africa's largest community of tech champions and offers this vibrant grouping the ideal space to connect and interact. However, just as these connections are so important for the industry, so is the connecting of 1.2-billion people across Africa's 54 unique nations, vital for the continent's growth, with cross-border connectivity a particular concern.
Continental broadband penetration is currently around 45%, but this varies dramatically across regions. Connectivity is critical to the rapidly expanding SME business community, as well as for wider socioeconomic development needs. Looking at this the fireside chat, ‘Connectivity Beyond Borders: Unlocking Universal Broadband Access in Africa', will explore how innovations in strategy and technology are aiming to ensure that no individual, business, or community is left behind in Africa's pursuit of universal broadband access.
While most of the discussions and presentations relate to most players in the industry, the event has been structured in such a way as to ensure that specialists are also able to sit in on the most relevant content to them, either by staying in one venue for a series of talks, or by exploring the ‘centre stages' in each of the exhibition halls in which masterclasses and presentations will take place.
Other major topics on offer this year include:
- Connectivity for All: Addressing the Needs of Underserved Communities
- Driving Innovation: Unravelling the Business Applications of 5G FWA in Africa
- The Changing Role of Satellites to Leapfrog Africa Into an Era of Online Connectivity.
This year, the Africa Tech Festival will offer delegates several new features, along with six presentation stages and a staggering amount of content, while hundreds of exhibitors on the show floor will once again engage with the brightest tech gurus from around the continent and globally, who will all descend on the Cape Town International Convention Centre to discover the latest products and services and to connect with other tech professionals.
Williams shares that: “This year we have added a new interactive feature to the festival - a dedicated tech demo area that we are sure will draw crowds throughout the three days. It's a chance to engage with the cutting-edge innovations that Africa needs to know about… as well as some of the exciting innovations that Africa has to offer the world.”
For more information, please see website here: Africa Tech Festival 2023 - The Home of AfricaCom & AfricaTech (https://apo-opa.info/3myppVu)
View all ticket options for Africa Tech Festival, including start-up passes, here (https://apo-opa.info/3Q04o2r).
(Please note that all requests are adjudicated and there may be some delay before you hear back from us).
List of Speakers:
Dion JerlingCo-FounderConnect Earth (https://apo-opa.info/46gFyRs)
Richard CazaletExec: Strategy and TransformationTelkom SA (https://apo-opa.info/3ZFTeTq)
Miriam AltmanDirector: Altman Advisory & Professor of 4IR PracticeUniversity of Johannesburg (https://apo-opa.info/3F2uvzd)
Guy ZibiManaging DirectorXalam Analytics (https://apo-opa.info/46vWqE5)
Robert AOUADCEOISOCEL Telecom (https://apo-opa.info/48DshE8)
Ronan De RenesseSenior Research Director, Service Provider MarketsOmdia (https://apo-opa.info/3ZEV4nH)
Russell SouthwoodCEOBalancing Act (https://apo-opa.info/3Fad7bL)
Matt ReedChief Analyst, Service ProviderOmdia (https://apo-opa.info/3Q0SYLJ)
Vuyani TatiManaging PartnerAfriTech Catalytic Growth Fund (https://apo-opa.info/3Q2cdEx)
Jocelyn NyaguseHead of Marketing and StorytellingStartupbootcamp AfriTech (https://apo-opa.info/3Q38KWg)
Nathan-Ross AdamsData & Tech LawyerMichalsons (https://apo-opa.info/45l5JVP)
Paula GilbertEditorConnecting Africa (https://apo-opa.info/45nYfRL)
Matshepo SehlohoAssociate EditorConnecting Africa (https://apo-opa.info/45jiVKW)
Calvin GovenderGeneral Manager ICT Fixed ServicesMTN (https://apo-opa.info/46yJixt)
Marjorie Saint-LotCountry Manager for Uber Ghana and the Ivory CoastUber (https://apo-opa.info/45minno)
Joseph NdabaCEO of Mafikeng Digital Innovation Hub4IR Commissioner: Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Commission (https://apo-opa.info/48IAhUv)
Marion BalandraFounder & CEOMeridian Remote Teams (https://apo-opa.info/3RHf8E3)
Evan JonesCEOThe Collective X (https://apo-opa.info/3RP8Dir)
Badi SudhakaranCo-FounderVALR.com (https://apo-opa.info/45iLiIU)
Nfaly SyllaChief of CabinetMinistry of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, Republic of Guinea (https://apo-opa.info/46yzZxs)
Mumbi Ndung'uChief Growth and OperationsPower Learn Project (https://apo-opa.info/48QSa3w)
Dr Cherise DunnCo-founder and COOSouth Africa Makes (https://apo-opa.info/46yrSks)
Judith GardinerVice President, Growth and Emerging MarketsEquinix (https://apo-opa.info/46jvC9O)
Robinson Tombari SibeMD/CEODigital Footprints (https://apo-opa.info/3Q3M4oW)
Bernard WanyamaPresident, Kampala ChapterISACA (https://apo-opa.info/3tgQSyh)
Ryan Van den BerghManaging Executive: Group Technology Strategy, Architecture, Spectrum & AssuranceVodacom (https://apo-opa.info/45l7DWt)
Andy HalsallCEOpoa! Internet (https://apo-opa.info/46ArUrZ)
Sabrine ChennaouiCo-FounderMONSAPO (https://apo-opa.info/3tjBYHA)
Pablo MlikotaSenior Vice President – International Mobility Servicese& GROUP (https://apo-opa.info/3ZEWvT7)
John DaviesTMT Equity Research Analyst, EMEA, TMTBloomberg Intelligence (https://apo-opa.info/3Q4dAmn)
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Tech Festival.
For media enquiries, interviews and/or images please contact:
Kaz Henderson
kaz@networxpr.co.za
Call on +27 (0) 82 339 1199.
Social Media Handles:
Facebook: @africatechfestival
Twitter: @africatechfest
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.info/3EcywR6
Western Cape Premier set to open pan-African clean tech pitch event at Green Energy Africa Summit
On 11 October 2023, the Premier of the Western Cape, Alan Winde, will provide the opening remarks at Green Energy Africa Summit's (https://GreenEnergyAfricaSummit.com/) high-octane deal pitching platform, the Energy Investment Village.
A selection of ten African clean-tech start-ups will pitch their clean-tech solutions before a panel of judges and a room full of potential international investors on day 2 of the highly anticipated Green Energy Africa Summit. The Premier's presence at the Energy Investment Village signals the growing interest in - and serious consideration of - African clean-tech start-ups as viable clean energy investment assets.
This is the second year that Green Energy Africa Summit (https://apo-opa.info/3PLZHI8) has hosted the Energy Investment Village. The initiative was developed in partnership with Freeport Saldanha's Innovation Campus (https://www.InnovationCampus.co.za/) and advisory firm, the Research Institute for Innovation and Sustainability (RIIS) (https://EnablingInnovation.Africa/) and Anza Capital (https://Anza.holdings/), an early-stage tech start-up investment company. The Energy Investment Village is supported by Africa Scotland Business Network, JSE, Oceanhub-Africa, Savant, Firecracker, CHIETA, and Sasol.
The Green Energy Africa Summit itself provides an important role in enabling international investors to originate projects that will reduce the energy deficit whilst also contributing to developing low-carbon pathways. The Energy Investment Village is the action-based aspect of the Summit, providing a key moment for African clean energy projects and international investors to have direct sight of one another.
According to a report by the International Energy Agency, African energy investment needs to double to over USD 200 billion per year by 2030, for the continent to meet its energy-related development goals. However, emerging and developing economies (except for China) remain stuck at 2015 levels, with no increase since the Paris Agreement was reached.
Premier Winde says, “Our energy demands are currently outstripping supply. When ramping up capacity, clean energy solutions must be a priority. This is particularly important for South Africa if we are to reach our goal of net zero emissions by 2050, to which we've committed in our Low-Emission Development Strategy as part of the UNDP Climate Promise, and the Western Cape Government is committed to supporting. Initiatives such as the Green Energy Africa Summit's Energy Investment Village are excellent vehicles to enable clean energy innovation to flourish. As the Western Cape Government, we are investing heavily in making our province energy resilient. This involves striking a balance between driving economic growth while at the same time developing and harnessing renewable energy solutions.”
As well as finding potential investor-start-up linkages and synergies, the competing start-ups can win valuable prizes provided by the Energy Investment Village sponsors. This includes capacity-enhancing programmes such as:
- Pitch preparation training programme sponsored by CHIETA (for all finalists);
- JSE's Enterprise Acceleration Programme;
- Build Acceleration Programme 2024 by Savant;
- Enterprise Supplier Development Programme by Sasol; and
- a half day brand workshop valued at R25k by Firecracker Events and Marketing.
Additionally, up to R5 million in VC funding (dependent on terms & conditions and company audit) will be made available by Anza Capital, and corporate membership to an international network worth R9k will be given to the top start-up by Africa Scotland Business Network. A cash prize of R100k from Sasol for a selected start-up.
Energy Investment Village finalists for 2023
- Therm, pioneers in sustainable heating solutions, utilizing innovative technologies for efficient energy consumption.
- AET Africa, providers of renewable energy systems, specialising in solar and wind power generation across the African continent.
- Ceneco Green Power, developers of environmentally friendly power plants focused on reducing carbon emissions.
- Energy Cubes, innovators in energy storage, offering scalable and cost-effective solutions for optimising power distribution.
- Powerstove, providers of clean cooking solutions in the form of efficient and clean-burning stoves for households and communities.
- Revive Earth, turning organic waste into renewable resources while mitigating environmental impact.
- Green Share, providers of a decentralised energy management system, enabling communities to generate, store, and share renewable energy.
- Think Bikes, providing sustainable urban transportation through the design and manufacture of electric bicycles for eco-conscious commuters.
- Flx, offering cutting-edge electric vehicles with a focus on performance, affordability, and sustainability.
- Impact-free Water, providers of sustainable solutions for clean and accessible water in resource-challenged regions.
Find out more about attending Green Energy Africa Summit and take part in the excitement as the Energy Investment Village finalists battle it out for pole position: https://apo-opa.info/3Q6u6Cp
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Green Energy Africa Summit.
Media Contact:
Amie Sparrow
PR Manager
amie.sparrow@hyve.group
About Green Energy Africa Summit:
The Green Energy Africa Summit is a high-level gathering advocating for policy reforms and the harmonisation of Africa's natural resources, to help pave the way for a just energy transition to ensure Africa remains competitive and attractive to global finance. The Green Energy Africa Summit takes place in the heart of Cape Town at the Cape Town International Convention Centre 2 (CTICC2) from 10-11 October 2023.
President Ramaphosa mourns Prof Hoosen ‘Jerry’ Coovadia
President Ramaphosa mourns Prof Hoosen ‘Jerry’ Coovadia
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family of Professor Hoosen Mahomed “Jerry” Coovadia, a leading scientist, health policy innovator, and anti-apartheid activist who has passed away at the age of 83 at his home in Durban.
The President described Coovadia as an outstanding scientist and committed anti-apartheid campaigner who dedicated himself to the liberation struggle.
The President has offered his deepest condolences to Coovadia’s wife Dr Zubeida Hamed, his son Prof Imraan Coovadia, and daughter Dr Anuschka Coovadia, on behalf of government and the nation.
The Prof, the President said, dedicated himself to the physical well-being and social inclusion of people all over the world through his enterprising mission as a scientist and architect of public health policies.
“His pioneering, globally acclaimed research into mother-to-child transmission of HIV has rendered an immeasurable legacy to humanity in terms of which persons living with HIV can live long and healthy lives subject to early detection and access to treatment.
“Our nation’s loss will be felt globally but we can take pride at and comfort from the emergence of a giant of science and an icon of compassion and resilience from our country,” the President added.
Although he faced numerous obstacles in apartheid South Africa, Coovadia established himself as a top paediatrician and became an international authority on HIV/AIDS, earning numerous awards and accolades throughout his career.
Those who have been paying their tribute have described his passing as a great loss to the scientific community and remarked that his contribution will always be remembered.
According to reports, he was appointed Associate Professor at the University of Natal now known as the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in 1982 and ad hominem Professor in 1986.
From 1990 to 2000, he served as Professor and Head of Paediatrics and Child Health at the UKZN.
Director of Biomedical Science at the Centre for HIV/AIDS Networking (HIVAN), and the scientific director of the Doris Duke Medical Research Institute at the Nelson Mandela School of Medicine at the UKZN.
He was awarded the 2013 AAAS Award for Scientific Freedom and Responsibility. He has also received the 1999 Star of South Africa Award from President Nelson Mandela and the 2000 Nelson Mandela Award for Health and Human Rights.
The National Research Foundation (NRF), said during his career, he served as the Chairman of the Board of the UKZN Children’s Hospital Trust, a Commissioner for the National Planning Commission, and Associate Scientific Director at CAPRISA, which is home to the DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in HIV Prevention. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 10/04/2023 - 13:12
278 views
Without Ma Rosey, these children would get nothing all day but sugar water
Mthatha mother battles to feed the children who come to her day care centre
KZN Premier unveils fleet of trucks to improve pothole repairs
KZN Premier unveils fleet of trucks to improve pothole repairs
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube–Ncube has unveiled 55 new trucks, which will be used to improve the turnaround time in addressing pothole patching in the province.
The procurement of the trucks, which were unveiled at the launch of the 2023 October Transport Month campaign, is part of the commitment made by the Premier in her State of the Province Address, where she committed government to improving the provincial road network conditions.
The trucks -- fitted with the latest pothole patching technology -- will be distributed to all Department of Transports’ District Offices, in a “fast and effective operation”.
The trucks will comprise a team of nine people, who will be responsible for routine and safety maintenance, including pothole patching, blacktop patching, drain cleaning and verge maintenance, among other duties.
Unveiling the trucks, Dube-Ncube emphasised that the transport sector is the heartbeat of the province’s economy, and crucial in the stimulation of socio-economic development of the nation.
She said during October Transport Month, the province will advance road safety initiatives and highlight several economic empowerment initiatives.
“Under the Department of Transport, over the coming months, the province will ensure that employment intensive road maintenance programmes are increased to provide employment opportunities for more women and the vulnerable in our province. The Zibambele Maintenance Programme will create 41 000 job opportunities,” Dube-Ncube said.
This year’s October Transport Month Campaign is being rolled out under the theme, ‘Siyakha – We are building better infrastructure to grow South Africa together!’.
During this month, the Department of Transport and its entities will showcase transport infrastructure services in aviation, maritime, public transport and roads.
This month will also be used to further advance the country’s road safety initiatives, while creating awareness of the economic benefits of the sector. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 10/04/2023 - 11:16
122 views
Tracking EPWP pace
Tracking EPWP progress
While the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) has provided job opportunities for close to two decades, work is underway to ensure that its footprint reaches more people.
By March 2023, the programme had steadily created over 14 million work opportunities since its inception in April 2004.
“The EPWP has been a good programme from its inception 19 years ago. The main focus of the programme is to alleviate poverty by providing job opportunities. This is important because it is not just a job opportunity, it is an opportunity that must provide a skill to participants,” said Public Works and Infrastructure Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts.
The EPWP is a medium-to long-term government-funded programme that promotes the use of labour-intensive methods to create work opportunities for poor and unemployed South Africans.
In addition to gaining skills and earning an income, the work opportunities also allow participants to gain valuable work experience that make them employable.
Through its various five-year phases, which have been improved upon over the years, the programme has granted work opportunities to many across the length and breadth of the country.
In an interview with SAnews at her office in central Pretoria, Swarts said various research reports and mid-term review reports of the different phases of the EPWP show that the income participants earn from the programme is having a positive impact in terms of poverty alleviation.
The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) is the custodian of the programme, which is being implemented by over 300 public bodies across the three spheres of government.
Training for the future
The programme has morphed with each subsequent phase it has undergone and the current five-year Phase IV comes to an end in 2024.
The current phase has created 3.9 million work opportunities against the five million target.
Swarts revealed that in the current phase, the EPWP has been strengthening its partnerships with the private sector in getting placements for youth that have been trained in artisan programmes to gain work experience.
This includes the placement and absorption of young people by contractors on projects implemented by the DPWI. Some young people trained in the mechanical engineering field have been absorbed by mining and car repair companies as part of the partnership.
Participants in the programme obtain various skills such as painting, brick laying and carpentry, home community-based care skills and fire-fighting among others. Training is funded through the National Skills Fund and budgets of projects in different public bodies.
Changing lives
The EPWP also contributes to household incomes, with over R12 billion having been transferred to participants as wages in 2022/23.
“The final figure, according to our records, was R13.2 billion being paid in wages,” she added.
While creating a livelihoods for participants, the EPWP also contributes towards service delivery. Projects include road maintenance, construction of schools and clinics, environmental greening, cleaning and removing alien vegetation.
Participation
In order to increase the participation of vulnerable groups in society, the current phase of the programme has put demographic targets in place.
For women participation this is set at 60% while the targets for the youth has been pegged at 55%.
According to the Deputy Minister the targets relating to women are being met while that of young people are yet to be met.
“For the 2022/23 financial year, the achievement for women was at 69% while that of youth was at 40%. Interventions are being put in place through better targeting during recruitment and having youth-focused programmes to improve the achievement of targets for youth,” explained the Deputy Minister.
She attributed this to the fact that some young people view wearing orange overalls as “not cool” while others believe that they cannot take part in the EPWP because of the qualifications they hold.
“[This] is a wrong mind-set because if you have a degree in administration and have been at home for five years, surely you must be able [to come to a point where you] say ‘let me deviate and participate in a programme that is going to give me a skill’,” she said.
The programme also caters for people living with disability by making provision for them to form their own companies. The Deputy Minister noted that more needs to be done to accommodate people living with disabilities.
“We need to bring in people with disabilities and we can bring them in as project managers on site to oversee the work that is being done.”
Policy
In 2022, the DPWI developed the EPWP Policy, which has been approved by Cabinet for public consultation and is expected to be finalised by March 2024.
On what the future holds for the programme that continues to evolve, Swarts says the DPWI and its stakeholders are developing proposals for the next phase of the programme, which is scheduled to start in April 2024, if approved by Cabinet.
Expanding the reach of the programme, improving training and skills development, and improving on exit strategies for participants are some the different proposals being considered for the next phase.
“[The] EPWP must and will be the backbone of creating employment in the country. After 19 years [and] as we prepare for the 20 years celebrations, which we are doing as DPWI at the end of this November, we are going to start showcasing and celebrating the EPWP.
“It must just not be about celebrating, it must be about us bringing all participants and stakeholders on board.”
The Deputy Minister is confident that those who complete the programme are capable of becoming entrepreneurs who can contribute to the country’s economic development. –SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Wed, 10/04/2023 - 11:56
7 views
Investment pledge creates 3000 jobs
Investment pledge creates 3000 jobs
The roll out of the investment of R500 million pledged by SA Taxi at the fifth South African Investment Conference hosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa in Johannesburg in April this year is gaining momentum and has already created more than 3 000 jobs.
The investment was announced as one of the pledges worth billions of rands that contributed to bringing the total value of investment pledges over a five-year investment mobilisation period to R1.51 trillion, thereby exceeding the initial target of R1.2 trillion set by President Ramaphosa.
Chief Government and Industry Officer at SA Taxi Holdings, Matsidikanye Moswane, said more than R350 million of the funding that was provided by the developmental credit provider, Transflow, has already been spent.
“The investment is being used to enable financial inclusion by extending developmental credit to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that may otherwise not have access to credit from traditional financiers,” Moswane said.
“By providing debt funding through Transflow, the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) is empowering under-serviced and emerging SMEs to build their businesses, which in turn creates further direct and indirect employment opportunities. To date this has helped create 1 620 direct jobs and 2 700 indirect jobs,” he said.
Moswane said the SA Taxi, whose headquarters are based in Midrand, Gauteng, but has a national customer base, finances entrepreneurs who operate minibus taxis that may not otherwise have access to credit from traditional banks, contributing to job creation, and enabling and improving the safety of public transport in South Africa.
“SA Taxi is an independently owned commercial business. It is the first financial service provider to focus solely on the taxi industry. We make a vital contribution to a market sector that has a stimulating effect on the national economy at many different levels.
“Each taxi creates 1.8 new jobs related to the industry. We focus exclusively on building entrepreneurs through the medium of the taxi industry which comprises an estimated 250 000 taxis that are on the roads in South Africa,” Moswane said.
He said SA Taxi has to source the money it lends to its clients from foreign and domestic direct investment. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 10/04/2023 - 10:09
10 views
Eastern Cape family waits for promised rights to farm land where their ancestors worked
Department of Rural Development and Land Reform silent on why it’s taken years to issue a lease promised in 2019
Small-scale farmers suffer devastating losses after Western Cape floods
At a Genadendal farm, nearly 500 chickens drowned, and over 50 pigs are missing
Infrastructure development in Africa key to success of smart mobility – Mashatile
Infrastructure development in Africa key to success of smart mobility - Mashatile
Africa should accelerate investment in critical infrastructure and digital solutions for smart mobility to succeed on the continent, says Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
“For example, investment [must be made] towards building charging stations for electric vehicles, expanding broadband connectivity, and developing intelligent transportation systems.
“Governments, private sector organisations and international partners must, therefore, come together to invest in the necessary infrastructure.”
The Deputy President was delivering a keynote address at the Smarter Mobility Africa (SMA) Conference Gala Dinner at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Johannesburg.
SMA, he believes, is another opportunity to collaborate to build a better and smarter transport system that will assist in growing the economy, create jobs and improve people’s quality of life.
Smart mobility involves creating connected and integrated transport systems, which offer flexibility and efficiency, cutting across all modes of transport.
The country’s second-in-command said governments should develop clear guidelines and regulations to ensure a safe and reliable transportation system.
These, he said, include regulations on data privacy, cybersecurity, and standards for electric vehicles.
“We must make it our responsibility to establish a harmonised approach to smarter mobility across Africa.”
In South Africa, the Deputy President said smarter mobility has been embraced to align with ongoing worldwide discussions regarding the trajectory of mobility and climate change.
Meanwhile, government is pushing ahead with a National Transport Master Plan (NATMAP) 2050 strategy to establish a safe, affordable, dependable, and efficient means of transporting people and products.
“We understand that we cannot discuss the transport sector's transformation without addressing the exclusion of our youth, particularly girls and women, who continue to face devastating and discouraging unemployment and the risk of poverty and violence in our society.”
Urban planning
In light of the accelerated urbanisation expected over the next few years, Mashatile told attendees that governments and cities must prioritise urban planning policies that are responsive to changes.
“There is no doubt that the need for the transportation of both people and goods will always exist and is, in most aspects, one of the few ways in which economic development occurs.”
According to Deputy President Mashatile Africa must seize the opportunities presented by technology to enhance the efficacy and sustainability of our transport systems.
“This is because major cities, such as Lagos, Nairobi, and Johannesburg, face significant challenges in heavy congestion, overcrowded public transport systems, poor traffic management, and overall inefficient public transportation systems.”
He has since called for more imaginative mobility solutions that can leverage technology to optimise routes, reduce traffic congestion, and use data to provide real-time information to commuters.
The Deputy President believes that this could transportation networks’ overall efficiency and reliability and will go a long way towards the development aspirations and efforts.
“In addition, smart mobility solutions can have a significantly positive impact on the environment.”
By transitioning to electric vehicles and adopting clean energy sources, he said the continent can reduce carbon emissions and contribute towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
New energy vehicles
The State, according to the Deputy President, remains committed to supporting and investing in the expansion and development of new and existing manufacturing plants to support the production of new energy vehicles (NEVs) components and grow employment in the automotive sector.
Investing in the NEV, he said, also contributes to the decarbonisation of road transport.
African trade
Shifting his focus to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Deputy President Mashatile said the continent should address the inconsistent and inefficient goods and logistics services that have long impeded intra-African trade and commerce.
“In addition, through this agreement, we will address the high customs delay times, lack of paved roadways on which goods can be conveyed, and more significant loss of goods due to limited cold chains compared to other global regions.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:07
596 views
Govt considers vaccination to contain the spread of avian influenza
Govt considers vaccination to contain the spread of avian influenza
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development is looking at the possibility of a vaccination to contain the spread and impact of avian influenza.
Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Thoko Didiza, met with the retailers on Monday to discuss the impact of avian influenza, also known as ‘avian flu’ or ‘bird flu’, in South Africa.
This follows a meeting held with the South African Poultry Association last Friday and engagements that have been taking place between government officials and the industry.
During the meeting, Didiza briefed retailers on the containment measures that have been taken to limit the spread of the disease, as well as possible solutions to manage such outbreaks in the short and the medium-term, including vaccinations.
“It was evident from [Monday’s] engagement that the main challenge is primarily on the egg production side, where there are supply constraints in some regions of the country. In response to this challenge, the Minister is focusing on measures to improve the availability of egg supply to consumers and simultaneously putting measures to contain the spread of the disease.
“Moreover, the Minister is embarking on the efficiency improvement in issuing import permits for egg products to ensure sufficient supplies for consumers. In addition, the Minister is looking at the possibility of vaccination and currently reviewing applications by various suppliers,” the department said in a statement.
On the broiler side, Didiza and Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel, are assessing some trade instruments to ease the supply of chicken meat.
According to the statement issued by the department last week, as of 21 September 2023, a total of 50 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H7 outbreaks and 10 HPAI H5 outbreaks have been reported in the country, with 37 HPAI H7 cases confirmed in Gauteng.
The number of chickens that have died is 107 705, while the reported number of chickens that were culled is 1 318 521.
“Based on these reported figures, there has been a total loss of 1 426 226 chickens,” the department said.
The reported number of chickens that have died of HPAI H5 is 98 249, while the reported number of chickens that were culled is 1 156 283, bringing the total loss of 1 254 532 chickens. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:11
540 views
Finance minister meets with PSC to discuss range of issues
Finance minister meets with PSC to discuss range of issues
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has met with the Public Service Commission (PSC) leadership on Monday to discuss a range of issues.
The PSC delegation was led by the Commission’s chairperson, Professor Somadoda Fikeni.
The Public Service Commission has the key mandate of promoting constitutional values and principles of public administration in the public service, while also evaluating and investigating public administration practices.
Godongwana recognised the role played by an effective public service in supporting economic development, and added that consequence management should form part of the performance agreements of senior managers in the public service.
The Commission raised a number of issues in the area of building state capacity such as passing of the PSC Bill which aims to strengthen the independence of the PSC as well as expansion of the PSC’s oversight role to local government and state owned entities, the need to professionalise the public service, addressing inefficiencies that are costing the state hundreds of millions of rand, regulatory burden and red tape that can have a negative impact on economic activity, as well as the effectiveness and efficiency of government to deliver prompt and quality services.
The Commission also reiterated their willingness to partner with government to address the inefficiencies that are debilitating state coffers.
Minister Godongwana agreed that state capacity needed to be improved and that professionalising the public service would save the state millions of rand.
“The work you are doing is commendable and it will require a mobilisation of political support and I am happy to give you that support,” Godongwana said.
The Minister undertook to continue engagements with constitutional institutions supporting democracy such as the PSC and encouraged them to hold workshops to ensure that officials know how they operate so that they are assisted to do their work. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:14
413 views
Department of Health in last-minute bid to avoid stand-off with nurses over uniforms
Union says nurses will work in their own clothes if uniform allowance is not sorted out