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KZN Premier calls for urgent action to respond to climate change

Location: News

KZN Premier calls for urgent action to respond to climate change

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has called for urgent and collective action in order to respond to the impact of climate change.

This, the Premier said during an engagement with various strategic and alliance partners at the 2023 Climate Week in New York, must be accompanied by meaningful funding and the implementation of commitments.

Dube-Ncube bemoaned the fact that those who have contributed the least to climate change and are the most vulnerable -- mainly residing in the developing world -- have been the most affected by the impact of climate change. 

“Governments must strengthen the implementation of current policies and strategies to hold corporates responsible for their contribution to the climate change impacts and to ensure their accountability. 

“The corporates, on the other hand, must put their money where their values are. We urgently need collective action to mitigate, while we largely adapt to the climate change impacts,” Dube-Ncube said.

In its 15th year, Climate Week is regarded as the largest annual climate event of its kind, bringing together some 400 events and activities across the City of New York – in person, hybrid and online. 

Each year, business leaders, political change makers, local decision takers and civil society representatives of all ages and backgrounds, from all over the world, gather to drive the transition, speed up progress, and champion change that is already happening.

KwaZulu-Natal is one of the co-chairs of the Climate Group. The group acts as the Secretariat of the Under2Coalition, the largest network of subnational governments committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2050 or earlier.

KwaZulu-Natal represents the voices of the vulnerable people of Africa, as the Premier is the co-chair for the Africa Region.

This year, Climate Week NYC is being held from 17 - 24 September 2023. 

At the event, the Premier met with the Governor of California, Gavin Newsom, and the two discussed issues of common interest, including lessons on climate insurance, and establishing learning platforms, which will be shared by both KwaZulu-Natal and the California subnational government, to push the urgency of action. 

The two leaders also discussed climate risks and vulnerabilities, as both California and KwaZulu-Natal share similar experiences, which is flash floods, droughts and sea level rises.

Dube-Ncube said Climate Week and the engagement with the Governor could not have come at a more poignant time, as KwaZulu-Natal and the rest of Africa are more susceptible to violent weather patterns. 

The Premier said while making good progress, the province is still reeling from the April 2022 floods and its infrastructure has not yet fully recovered.

“Just this weekend, we witnessed devastating tidal waves in the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal which destroyed infrastructure and saw a number of people injured. This clearly demonstrates that our province is in the eye of the storm and, as a result, urgent action is required from all stakeholders,” Dube-Ncube said. 

On behalf of the provincial government, the Premier conveyed a message of support and condolences to the families of the victims of the high tidal waves, which left a trail of destruction in its wake.

Dube-Ncube said the conversations at the 2023 Climate Week will not end at the event but will shape the onward conversations of COP28, scheduled to take place in November/December 2023 in the United Arab Emirates.

“This is where governments and non-parties will be advancing the voice of inclusivity.

“As part of the underdeveloped and developing worlds, we carry a clear mandate to advance the aspirations of our regions and in particular, the African continent, for environmental justice, food security and financing of mitigation efforts,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Thu, 09/21/2023 - 10:02

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DPWI condemns disruption of Women in Construction event

Location: News

DPWI condemns disruption of Women in Construction event

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala has condemned in the strongest possible terms an incident of disruption which took place at a Women in Construction event in Rustenburg, North West.

Zikalala attended the event at the invitation of the North West Chapter of the Black Business Council on the Built Environment, as part of taking the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to various provinces.

The event was also attended by entities that fall under Zikalala’s portfolio, such as the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) and the Council for the Build Environment (CBE); departmental branches such as the Construction Project Management (CPM), Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), and the Human Capital Development. 

It was a platform to engage with women entrepreneurs, who had requested to be capacitated on programmes to enable them to take advantage of opportunities in the construction and infrastructure sector.

As the session commenced, Zikalala, who had been sitting with other panellists, a group of angry protestors stormed the event.

The group demanded that one of the panellists (the Chairperson of the North West Chapter of BBCBE), who was sitting next to the Minister be removed, claiming he does not represent them. They also accused him of swindling them of their money.

“The confrontation had nothing to do either with the Minister or the separtment but was about internal Black Business Council issues,” the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure said in a statement.

The security detail of the Minister reacted to protect the guest, as they were not aware of who the group was and their intention.

“While the Minister and the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure will not be drawn into internal ructions of the Black Business Council, it believes that it is inexcusable to deprive the many women, who had converged at the event an opportunity to benefit from information and knowledge that would have assisted their businesses. 

“The Minister has been leading the programme of economic inclusion within the construction and built environment sectors, especially focusing on women and the youth.

“The cry for people to be included in sectors of the economy is the priority the Minister has elevated and will continue to pursue across the country as part of the Economic Recovery and Reconstruction Programme,” the department said.

While the event proceeded, Zikalala urged all the aggrieved parties to resolve their internal differences without impacting negatively on the community at large, especially the vulnerable sectors, that still need to be propelled in sectors such as construction and infrastructure, which still exclude the majority and are dominated by males.

The police managed to calm down the situation and the event continued. Zikalala warned that government would not be held at ransom by people who have grievances of whatever nature. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 09/20/2023 - 09:27

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South Africa continues to advocate for dialogue 

Location: News

South Africa continues to advocate for dialogue 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged the international community to do everything within its means to enable meaningful dialogue between warring parties, while refraining from actions that fuel the conflict. 

The President was delivering a statement to the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA78) at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
 
“Democratic South Africa has consistently advocated for dialogue, negotiation and diplomacy to prevent and end conflict, and achieve lasting peace. 

“It is these principles that inform South Africa’s participation in the African Peace Initiative, which seeks a peaceful resolution of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. In this conflict, as in all conflicts, we have insisted that the UN Charter’s principle of respect for the territorial integrity of every country should be upheld,” the President said. 

President Ramaphosa told the world leaders that SA’s participation in the African Peace Initiative is informed by a desire to see an end to the suffering of those most directly affected by the conflict and the millions on the continent and across the world who, as a result of the conflict, are now vulnerable to worsening hunger and deprivation.

“As the international community, we must do everything within our means to enable meaningful dialogue, just as we should refrain from any actions that fuel the conflict.

“As we confront other conflicts in several parts of the world, including on our continent Africa, we need to be investing in prevention and peacebuilding,” he said. 

The President said South Africa supports the call by the UN Secretary-General in the New Agenda for Peace for Member States to provide more sustainable and predictable financing to peacebuilding efforts. 

He called on the global community to be concerned by recent incidents of unconstitutional changes of government in some parts of Africa.

He emphasised that the global community needs to work alongside the African Union to support peace efforts in the eastern DRC, Libya, Sudan, Somalia, Mali, Central African Republic, South Sudan, northern Mozambique, the Great Lakes Region, the Sahel, Niger and the Horn of Africa.

The President highlighted that the African Union Peace and Security Council has declared that it stands ready to deepen its cooperation with the UN Security Council to silence the guns on the African continent and to achieve peace, stability and development.

“We are called upon to remain true to the founding principles of the United Nations, by recognising the inalienable right of the people of Western Sahara to self-determination, in line with the relevant UN General Assembly resolutions. 

“We must work for peace in the Middle East. For as long as the land of the Palestinians remains occupied, for as long as their rights are ignored and their dignity denied, such peace will remain elusive,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa said that the actions of the Government of Israel have imperilled the possibility of a viable two-State solution. 

“The principles of the UN Charter on territorial integrity and on the prohibition on the annexation of land through the use of force must be applied in this situation,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa said South Africa continues to call for the lifting of the economic embargo against Cuba, which has caused untold damage to that country’s economy and people.

He said sanctions against Zimbabwe should also be lifted as they are imposing great suffering on ordinary Zimbabweans.

“As many people around the world are confronted by hunger and want, the essential human qualities of cooperation and solidarity must be evident in the actions we take to bridge the divide between wealthy and poor. 

“We must summon the necessary will and resolve to regain the momentum towards the achievement of the 2030 Agenda. 

“This means that we must address the fundamental development challenges that have long characterised our unequal world,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 09/20/2023 - 09:59

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NSFAS collaborates with government agencies to identify unqualifying students

Location: News

NSFAS collaborates with government agencies to identify unqualifying students

Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, says the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) will continue its collaborative work with other government entities to verify all applications for funding.

Nzimande said the scheme is working with the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), South African Revenue Service (SARS), and the Department of Home Affairs to verify information submitted by students applying for funding.  

A report from the NSFAS Board shows that 45 927 students were correctly or erroneously disqualified for funding due to processing gaps, which fall under three broad categories. The three categories include Hybrid Applications, Missing Parental Relationships, and Latency Data from the Higher Education Information Management System (HEMIS). 

Hybrid Applications are continuing students who applied, while Missing Parental Relationships are first-time entering students, who were previously funded and later rejected because of additional parental relationships that were verified, based on additional information sourced from government agencies. 

On Hybrid Applications, Nzimande said, the report shows that about 14 703 records were continuing students who applied erroneously because of migrating from the old to the new system, and in some instances, it was students panicking because they did not see their funding status and applied for funding. 

“I can confirm that all these students are now funded. The balance of 31 224 students remains not funded and this is due to the assessment of financial eligibility, as NSFAS continues to pick up additional parental relationships and academic ineligibility,” Nzimande reported at a briefing on Tuesday. 

On the Missing Parental Relationships, Nzimande noted that some students had initially declared one parent or the “incorrect” parent, who was not picked up by the Department of Home Affairs, and as such, a decision was made to initially fund the student. 

“However, based on review of this trend, through a relationship matrix that is built internally at NSFAS, we established additional parental relationship of students. This was exposed to SARS verification and SARS came with the feedback that the combined family income of these families exceeds the threshold. This led to the discontinuation of funding for some of the students. 

“Another criterion is the Academic Eligibility review, which was incomplete due to the delays in data received from HEMIS and this impacted the N+Rule (the number of years students will receive funding to obtain a qualification),” the Minister said.

Over 170 000 appeals received

Nzimande said NSFAS has received a total of 178 426 appeals due to the disqualifications, and these include 63 331 appeals that were approved and 8 528 that were rejected. 

“Out of these 178 426 appeals received, 30 712 were invalid appeals, meaning students either withdrew or their appeals were duplicated. Then there are 41 438 appeals that required the submission of external dependencies, such as submission of documentation. 

“About 20 908 are awaiting supporting document appeals, meaning the student submitted incorrect documents at the time of appeal and were requested to provide further documents. In addition, 20 530 students, through results from Higher Education and Training and our institutions, indicate that they did not progress. Students appealed the decision and indicated that they have passed,” Nzimande explained. 

The Minister said 11 284 appeals are currently in evaluation, which are assigned to a case worker to process each appeal. 

He assured that all the appeals will be attended to urgently. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Wed, 09/20/2023 - 10:51

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Holding those accountable for financial misconduct imperative for public trust

Location: News

Holding those accountable for financial misconduct imperative for public trust

With South Africa’s public finances being under strain, Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has emphasised the importance of holding individuals and entities accountable for financial misconduct, as it is vital for public trust.

“Without swift and fitting consequences, we risk eroding public trust in our capacity to manage public funds effectively, with less and less funding available to deliver much-needed services to our people,” Godongwana said on Wednesday.

Virtually addressing the 3rd Public Finance Management Conference, the Minister said rigorous and independent audit practices play a pivotal role in unearthing corruption and financial mismanagement, providing invaluable insights and recommendations for the judicious utilisation of public funds.

“Our public finances are currently in a difficult position, one that is increasing in complexity and uncertainty. The short-term risks to the local and global economy that we predicted in the February Budget have now materialised.

“Government has collected much lower-than-expected tax revenue. At the same time, tighter financial conditions have made it difficult to borrow more and at affordable rates.

“Continued load shedding, the poor performance of our logistics sectors, and the lasting damage done by State capture to our institutions, have made the difficult fiscal situation even more challenging,” the Minister said.

He noted that these and other factors have put tremendous strain on the financial resources available to address the country’s most urgent service delivery priorities.

“Furthermore, ethical sourcing of goods and services through public procurement stands as an unassailable priority. Non-compliance with ethical standards in procurement can have far-reaching consequences, compromising the integrity of our financial processes,” Godongwana said.

He said being innovative, adaptive, agile and solutions-driven during these volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA) times is important.

“It is important to note that we have faced similar challenges in the past and managed to make the necessary policy decisions and trade-offs to navigate the storm.

“The path forward is not devoid of challenges; however, we are not powerless. With innovation, adaptability, and a resolute commitment to ethical financial management, we can surmount these obstacles and forge a luminous future for South Africa.

“We must leverage technology, collaborate across sectors, and put our citizens at the centre of our decisions. Together, we hold the power to rekindle public trust, to advance good governance, and to fortify our nation's public financial management,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 09/20/2023 - 11:43

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Electricity Minister to co-host South African Transmission Financing Seminar

Location: News

Electricity Minister to co-host South African Transmission Financing Seminar

Minister in The Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, is expected to co-host a Transmission Financing Seminar with the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) on Thursday.

The Minister will deliver a keynote address at the seminar.

According to a statement, the seminar is aimed at galvanising “discussions on the financing of South Africa’s Transmission Development Plan, which seeks to expand, support and secure the sustainability of South Africa’s energy mix and electricity supply”.

“The development and expansion of South Africa’s electricity transmission infrastructure is a critical cog to enabling diverse energy solutions, which are geographically located in various parts of the country, to contribute to the country’s electricity grid.

“This will significantly strengthen and increase South Africa’s electricity supply and capacitate the energy sector in meeting global decarbonisation targets and ensuring South Africa’s long-term energy security and energy sovereignty,” the statement read.

Various industry stakeholders are expected to attend the seminar.

“The seminar will bring together government, energy industry veterans and potential private sector investors to engage in a critical conversation on South Africa’s transmission infrastructure requirements for long-term energy security; explore alternative funding mechanisms for maintaining, modernising and expanding the national grid and an exchange on international experience of countries that have had similar challenges and what models were pursued to overcome these challenges,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 09/20/2023 - 09:25

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Cybersecurity Summit Heads to Johannesburg

Location: News
IT News Africa

In a digital landscape fraught with cyber threats, the imperative for updated cybersecurity strategies in public institutions has never been more pressing. Recent high-profile cyber incidents, such as the ransomware attacks targeting key South African entities including the City of Johannesburg (https://apo-opa.info/3LvDAnI), Transnet (https://apo-opa.info/3Lwf1r3), and the Department of Justice (https://apo-opa.info/44Yl6U6), have underscored the vulnerability of public sector organizations and State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) to the relentless pursuits of hackers and cyber criminals. To address this critical issue head-on, the stage is set for the upcoming Public Sector Cybersecurity Summit 2023 (https://apo-opa.info/3rc4GK1) (#PubliSec2023), scheduled for October 3rd in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Download the document: https://apo-opa.info/3t0Z7hY

Interpol's African Cyberthreat Assessment Report for 2021 (https://apo-opa.info/3t0Z7hY) cast a stark light on the situation, revealing that cyber attacks exact a staggering R2.2 billion toll on South Africa annually. Further compounding this statistic, an insightful report by Accenture on digital safety (https://apo-opa.info/3ZoGVuB) divulged that South Africa contends with an average of approximately 577 malware attacks per hour.

The significance of the cyber threat is neither localized nor restricted. The African Union encountered a crippling cyber onslaught (https://apo-opa.info/3rnX4Eb) earlier this year, resulting in the paralysis of its systems and rendering employees bereft of access to both work emails and the broader internet. Meanwhile, efforts to disrupt the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) (https://apo-opa.info/46iSXIo) and the country's major financial institutions were thwarted by Ethiopian authorities in 2022. Shumete Gizaw, the director-general of the Ethiopian Information Network Security Agency (INSA), underscored the gravity of the situation, revealing that a staggering 37,000 interlinked computers used by financial institutions had been targeted in the failed cyber attacks.

In the wake of this alarming surge of cyber incursions on public sector domains, the clarion call for proactive cybersecurity strategies has become resonant. Government departments, agencies, and State Owned Enterprises must now recalibrate their cybersecurity outlooks and undertake substantial investments in infrastructure, skills development, and cutting-edge technology. These proactive measures will be pivotal in not only mitigating existing vulnerabilities but also in erecting robust barriers against potential future attacks.

The Public Sector Cybersecurity Summit 2023 (https://apo-opa.info/3rc4GK1) offers a rallying platform for stakeholders invested in safeguarding public sector interests against the escalating tide of cyber threats. By participating in this significant event, attendees will gain exposure to the latest insights, best practices, and case studies that collectively form the bedrock of effective cybersecurity measures. The summit also presents an invaluable networking opportunity, where attendees can connect with peers and solution providers to exchange perspectives, challenges, and innovative strategies.

To register for the summit and secure your seat among the vanguard of cybersecurity resilience, visit https://apo-opa.info/3rc4GK1. 

For organizations aiming to amplify their participation and engagement in this pivotal cybersecurity discourse, sponsorship opportunities are available. To explore these avenues further, download the summit brochure at https://apo-opa.info/3rc4GK1. The Public Sector Cybersecurity Summit 2023 is a watershed moment in fortifying the digital defenses of government entities and State Owned Enterprises. The journey towards cyber resilience begins here.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of IT News Africa.

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Call for rearrest of man accused of kidnapping nine-year-old girl

Location: News

Call for rearrest of man accused of kidnapping nine-year-old girl

Law enforcement agencies have been called to swiftly rearrest a man who is allegedly involved in the kidnapping of a nine-year-old girl.

According to a report, the child from Sigedleni in Ixobho, in Southern KwaZulu-Natal was reported missing on 30 August 2023 and found in a harrowing situation on 02 September 2023.

It was reported that the child was being locked inside a house by a neighbour who allegedly sexually abused her.

The accused was initially apprehended and brought before the local magistrate's court. However, he was released last week after a rape case was not placed on the court roll.

KwaZulu-Natal Social Development MEC Nonhlanhla Khoza has expressed deep dismay at the incident and called for rearrest of the accused.

“Cases of rape and gender-based violence (GBV) are very serious and should not be allowed to go unpunished. We expect the police and relevant authorities to take immediate and decisive action to ensure that justice is served and that the perpetrator does not evade accountability,” Khoza said.

The MEC said it was disappointing that the suspect was let off the hook after the case was not put on the court roll.

“The department is committed to working closely with law enforcement agencies, community organisations and all stakeholders to provide support and assistance to the affected child and her family. We are also dedicated to implementing measures that will help prevent such heinous acts from occurring in future,” the MEC said.

Khoza said the department has dispatched a team of social workers to meet with the family and ensure the safety of the girl.

Campaign against substance abuse

Meanwhile, Khoza will today spearhead a campaign aimed at combating substance abuse and eradicating the illegal drug trade within the Mpembeni area of Umhlathuze, particularly in Ward 13.

The campaign seeks to address the significant challenges posed by drug peddling, including prevention, rehabilitation, community education and law enforcement efforts.

The key objectives of the campaign include:
• Engaging with local residents to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of community unity in fighting this issue.

• Collaborating with law enforcement agencies to increase patrols and intelligence efforts to combat drug trafficking and apprehend those involved.

• Ensuring that individuals struggling with substance abuse have access to treatment and rehabilitation services to aid in their recovery and reintegration into society.

• Implementing educational programs in schools and community centres to prevent the initiation of drug use among youth.

• Offering support to families affected by substance abuse, providing guidance, counselling and resources to help them cope.

“Khoza, along with key stakeholders from law enforcement agencies, local government officials, community leaders and experts in the field will roll out this critical campaign,” the department said.

The event will be held at Mpembeni Sportsground. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 09/19/2023 - 10:47

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Mantashe to Speak at Africa Oil Week

Location: News

Africa Oil Week
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South African Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Hon. Gwede Mantashe will be a keynote speaker at Africa Oil Week (AOW) (www.Africa-OilWeek.com), to be held in Cape Town next month.

AOW is the continent's leading event in the African upstream and it sees representatives of more than 25 African governments coming together with energy policymakers, financiers and dealmakers to share insights and to map a sustainable roadmap for the responsible development of Africa's natural resources.

Announcing Minister Mantashe's participation, Yemi Ibidunni, Event Director, AOW said that the involvement of the minister and South Africa's Department of Mineral Resources and Energy confirmed the role of AOW as a critical platform for driving energy investment and shaping the future of Africa.

“As Minister Mantashe said at last year's Africa Oil Week, developing Africa's oil and gas resources can help guarantee the continent's energy security while enhancing regional economic development,” says Yemi Ibidunni, Event Director, AOW. “Bringing together leading energy thought leaders like Minister Mantashe and others, helps build the partnerships and develop the knowledge that will drive this process.'

This year's AOW takes place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre 2 in Cape Town, from October 9 – 13, with the theme “Maximising Africa's Natural Resources”.

The event is a global platform driving collaboration, reputable deals and transactions between the public and private sector, shaping the future of the African upstream, and positioning the continent as a stable destination for international investment.

This year's AOW will connect more than 50 ministers and government leaders, 125+ leading speakers, and more than 2 000 senior delegates across five days of industry-leading insight and elite networking opportunities to delivering deals and investments.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Oil Week.

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Africa ready for novel investment – President Ramaphosa

Location: News

Africa ready for new investment – President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has told American business representatives that Africa is ready for new investment and strong partnerships.

The President was delivering remarks at the US - South Africa Trade and Investment Business Roundtable Dialogue in New York on Monday. 

“Africa is ready for new investment and strong partnerships. South Africa is well positioned as the continent’s industrial centre, with deep capital markets, the rule of law, protection of property rights and a dynamic and youthful population. 

“The significant presence of US companies operating in South Africa, including Ford, Coca-Cola, Pepsico, Procter & Gamble, Google, Amazon and Walmart, among many others, forms a base for increased investment,” the President said. 

President Ramaphosa said he was pleased to hear that the US Africa Business Council and BUSA will be hosting the inaugural business and investment forum on the margins of the AGOA Forum scheduled to be held in South Africa in November 2023. 

He said this platform will present the countries’ respective governments, private sectors and civil society with numerous opportunities to advance trade and investment relations. 

“I look forward to our discussions and encourage your candid views. I also look forward to welcoming all of the companies present here today to South Africa in November this year during the AGOA Forum… I look forward to building and strengthening business relationships that will accelerate growth, enable commercial success and ensure prosperity for both our countries,” President Ramaphosa said. 

Global prosperity

The President told the business representatives that global prosperity has been founded on greater levels of openness and engagement between nations and people. 

He said in recent decades, a more open, rules-based trading system, complemented by deeper levels of cross-border investment, has helped to sustain and grow global GDP. 

He said it has helped to increase employment in many countries and spur innovation and new technologies.

“Yet, the heightened tension of this moment has led to fragmentation, hostility and increasing protectionism. For South Africa, a divided world is not a good thing. We are a trading nation, with above average trade-to-GDP ratios. A significant part of our economic growth is driven by exports. 

“We believe that the voices advocating greater dialogue and continued economic engagement between nations need to be strengthened,” he said.

Trade and investment agenda

Turning to the trade and investment agenda, President Ramaphosa said that they are finalising the modalities for the imminent launch of trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area. 

“We expect that the first goods to be traded under this free trade pact would commence within the next six months or sooner. The AfCFTA, as it is called, will cover 1.3 billion consumers in countries possessing some of the world’s most valuable minerals and raw materials,” he said. 

South Africa is working with the US Administration to make the case for the extension of AGOA to current beneficiary countries for a further period of 10 years, prior to its expiry in 2025, President Ramaphosa said.

He emphasised that the US remains a very important economic partner in trade and investment, with great potential to further expand economic ties. 

Accompanying this trade agenda, the President said government has embarked on far-reaching economic reforms, including the energy market being restructured. 

Economic reform agenda

Turning to the economic reforms agenda, President Ramaphosa said the country is also focusing on expanding its industrial capacity. 

“The availability of critical raw materials in South Africa and in neighbouring countries is driving efforts to expand high-value manufacturing. This is a real opportunity for more US investment that can leverage off the demonstrated manufacturing base of South Africa. 

“African growth rates provide a stable growth in aggregate demand over the next decade and more,” he said.

The recently published African Economic Outlook for 2023 noted: “Growth is projected to rebound to 4% in 2023 and consolidate at 4.3% in 2024, underpinning Africa’s continued resilience to shocks.” 

The report goes on to say that Africa is endowed with 30% of the world’s mineral resources and 65% of the world’s uncultivated arable land, the world’s most productive forests both in timber and carbon retention resources, and ample solar, wind and hydropower.

“With this kind of potential, savvy investors will be expanding… their base in South Africa and the rest of the continent. 

“Our economic reform agenda also includes targeted measures to open the market for more South Africans to participate,” he said. 

The President told the business leaders that South Africa has increased its target for its investment drive to R2 trillion over the next five years. 

“To appreciate the great opportunities in our economy, I invite you to the next South Africa Investment Conference, to be held in March 2024,” he said. 

The investment drive includes an expansion of Special Economic Zones, the most recent of which was built around the Ford Motor Company plant in the capital city, Pretoria. Around 10 large factories now produce components for the scaled-up Ford plant. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Tue, 09/19/2023 - 11:39

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SA offers a treasure trove of experiences

Location: News

SA offers a treasure trove of experiences

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille says South Africa offers a treasure trove of experiences suitable for all types of travellers - whether you are a local looking to explore your own country without straining your budget or an international adventurer seeking new memories.

“We’ve got you covered! We are committed to highlighting the less-visited provinces and regions of our country. As we all welcome the peak tourism summer season, we must showcase the unexplored beauty and hidden treasures that await discovery,” the Minister said at the launch of the 2023 Summer Campaign in the Eastern Cape on Tuesday.

De Lille said all the provinces have the “most amazing hidden gems” and that government is on a mission to highlight these hidden gems and showcase them to all of South Africa and the world.

She said tourism brings immense benefits to host communities and that these benefits must be felt in even the most remote of areas.

“We couldn’t have chosen a better province to do this than the province so rich in history and unparalleled beauty,” De Lille said.

De Lille said with over 800 kilometres of awe-inspiring coastline, the Eastern Cape province boasts some of the country’s most stunning beaches.

“Its landscapes are adorned with jaw-dropping rock formations and its ecosystems teem with a magnificent diversity of flora and fauna.

“What sets the Eastern Cape apart is its unique offering of the ‘Big 7’ – a thrilling roster that includes lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, buffalos, Southern Right whales and Great White sharks.

“We all know the province, the home province of Tata Nelson Mandela, but it is equally known for its warm and welcoming people, who extend generous hospitality to all.

“In most successful tourism destinations worldwide, the domestic market serves as the bedrock of the tourism industry,” De Lille said.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when international travel faced severe restrictions due to global travel bans, the tourism sector leaned heavily on domestic tourism to sustain itself.

The Minister thanked local travellers who nonetheless explored the country when conditions permitted.

According to the Minister, in the first half of 2023, South Africans took 18.8 million domestic overnight trips up 23.4% when compared to the first half of 2022. Overnight spend was also up by 21.2% to reach R52.2 billion.

South Africans spent 65.7 million nights away from home and this was up 24.4% when compared to the first half of 2022.

De Lille said they want to use the Summer Campaign to further foster a culture of travel among South Africans.

“We understand that for this to be effective, ensuring affordability of travel should be at the forefront of our efforts.

“We are well aware that consumers are grappling with the challenges of a high cost of living. Consumers are facing an overall rise in the cost of living, driven by escalating fuel prices and interest rate hikes among others,” the Minister said.

De Lille said to respond to the high cost of living, said the tourism industry continues to explore creative ways in which to make travel more affordable.

From January to July 2023, a total of 4.8 million international tourists arrived in South Africa, signifying a remarkable 70.6% surge compared to the same period in 2022.

During Africa’s Travel Indaba in May this year, a significant milestone was reached when various stakeholders, including industry representatives and operators, came together to endorse the inclusivity pledge. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 09/19/2023 - 14:50

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World leaders called to champion women, children health agenda

Location: News

World leaders called to champion women, children health agenda

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on Heads of State and Government to join the Global Leaders Network to champion the women, children and adolescent health agenda. 

The President was addressing the High Level Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH) event on Monday at the UNICEF headquarters in New York, USA. 

“As Heads of State, we can provide leadership and inspire ambitious action. We have the convening power to mobilise our peers and advance policies, programmes and financing initiatives for improved outcomes.

“As part of our agenda, we must challenge the disregard in many communities and countries for the sexual and reproductive health and rights of women,” President Ramaphosa said. 

The President spent the first and second day of his working visit to the United States - for the 78th United Nations General Assembly - discussing sustainable development goals and investments in South Africa. 

On Sunday, President Ramaphosa held a bilateral meeting with Professor Klaus Schwab, CEO of the World Economic Forum (WEF), to discuss South Africa’s participation at WEF and the progress the country is making on the reforms aimed at advancing inclusive economic growth. 

The President also met with United States Congressman, Gregory Meeks. Both President Ramaphosa and Congressman Meeks acknowledged the need for greater cooperation between the US and South Africa in tackling global issues that are impacting the African continent, primarily, the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on Africa. 

“Congressman Meeks welcomed the briefing on the conclusion of the investigation into the docking of the LadyR vessel in Simmons Town, South Africa, and expressed his commitment to contributing to the strengthening of US-Africa diplomatic and trade relations, and to attending the AGOA forum in South Africa later this year,” the Presidency said. 

President Ramaphosa concluded his first day of engagements with a meeting with the United Nations Secretary General, Antonio Guterres.

The two leaders discussed developments related to the reform of the international financial architecture and other initiatives in support of the Sustainable Development Goals, as well as the reform of the United Nations Security Council. The Secretary General commended South Africa for its important role in advancing these efforts.  

The President also delivered remarks at the Sustainable Development Goals Summit, where he joined the call to address the fundamental development challenges that have long characterised an unequal world. 

“The President emphasised the need for targeted investment, technology transfer and capacity building support especially in key areas such as industralisation, infrastructure, agriculture, water, energy, education and health. The President further underscored the requirement for sustained financial support, including supportive trade policies from the international community,” the Presidency said. 

Later on Monday, President Ramaphosa led the business roundtable discussions with the US Chamber of Commerce and the US-Africa Business Center. 

President Ramaphosa used the occasion to position South Africa’s economic reform agenda, which is focused on expanding industrial capacity as an opportunity for more US investment that can leverage off the demonstrated manufacturing base of South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Tue, 09/19/2023 - 12:01

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Call to incorporate sport into the school curriculum

Location: News

Call to incorporate sport into the school curriculum

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa, has called for sport to be incorporated into the school curriculum.

“School sport is the bedrock of sport development in the country. School sport and physical education are contained in the National Development Plan and are integral to development in the country,” the Minister said.

He made these remarks on Sunday as he reflected on the recently held National School Sport Indaba, which gathered sport leaders and administrators, representatives in education, international experts, government officials, former players, and activists in the sport sector under the theme: 'Towards an integrated and united school sport system'.

The Minister said the National School Sport Indaba gave impetus to the establishment of a blueprint for school sport in South Africa.

“The indaba has set the path forward for government, the sport and education sectors, and commercial, community and civil society partners to work together towards building a sustainable national school sport programme,” he said.

The indaba focused on a new theory of change, realising the need to resolve all obstacles that are in the way of an inclusive, accessible and quality school sport system in the country. 

The National School Sport Indaba came to the following resolutions: 

  • Policy: To give effect to the collaboration agreement between the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and the Department of Basic Education through robust implementation, formal plans and monitoring of the agreement through formal practices.
  • Resources: To advocate for the building of school-based sports facilities that are aligned to the broader community spatial design, to optimise the use of currently available school facilities, and encourage private public partnerships through a suitable model, which is to be investigated. 
  • Development pathway: Focus on getting children playing regularly. School sport must be educator-driven and build capacity across all role-players in the ecosystem through formal training programmes. Physical education should be introduced as a stand-alone subject. 
  • Stakeholder relationships and structures: A national macro body for school sport, supported by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the Department of Basic Education, and the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc), should be established. 
  • Governance and transformation: Regulate the integration of the country’s fragmented school sport system.

- SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 09/18/2023 - 09:29

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Spotlight on Thusong Centres

Location: News

Spotlight on Thusong Centres

Government will this week raise awareness on the important services that Thusong Centres offer to communities across the country.

This year’s Annual Thusong Service Centre Week will place from 18 - 22 September under the theme: 'Building a Professional Public Service for Quality Service Delivery'.

Thusong Service Centres ensure that communities can access information and government services in line with the Batho Pele principles, and is part of government's commitment of taking services to the people.

“During this period, Thusong Service Centres will also be used to encourage South Africans to get involved in clean-up campaigns and start community gardens to alleviate food insecurity.

“The week overlaps with Public Service Month, which recognises the work of public servants, their contribution in the development of the country and encourage the brightest in the country to pursue careers in the public sector,” Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 09/18/2023 - 09:37

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Revised framework on municipal administration of housing programmes approved

Location: News

Revised framework on municipal administration of housing programmes approved

The human settlements sector will soon have a revised framework to guide the municipalities' administration of national housing programmes.

This follows the approval of the 2023 Revised Accreditation Framework for municipalities to administer the National Housing Programmes, and ensure municipalities' progressive capacitation to perform the delegated functions without compromising delivery capacity in the short-term.

The framework was approved on Friday, 15 September following a presentation tabled at a meeting between Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, Deputy Minister Pam Tshwete and provincial MECs of Human Settlements (MINMEC), where it received resounding support. 

Kubayi said the approval of the framework is a big step towards the creation of  objective criteria for accrediting municipalities with a clear accreditation process timetable. 

“Allowing municipalities to progressively build implementation capacity bolsters our long-term objective of creating a fully enabling environment for our municipalities to be self-sufficient in human settlements delivery. This way, we are capacitating them while ensuring that we reach our targets,” Kubayi said.

The Minister noted that the implementation of the 2012 Accreditation Framework faced several implementation challenges in some provinces. 

She said the 2023 Revised Accreditation Framework introduces, among others, a programme-based incremental approach, wherein municipalities are to be accredited for implementing a programme or mixture of programmes that are relevant to their capacity and priority needs. 

“Another major intervention in the revised framework is the role of intermediate city municipalities or secondary cities, which are considered crucial catalysts for more balanced and dispersed growth across the country,” the Minister said.

Title Deeds Programme remains priority

The MINMEC also agreed that the Title Deeds Programme must be prioritised through several interventions, including embarking on weekly roadshows to issue the 234 757 available title deeds nationally. 

The discussions focused on the turnaround time by municipalities to declare townships, with an agreement to collaborate on cross-border demarcation, particularly as it impacts on the title deeds roll out programme.

The issuing of title deeds across provinces is an apex priority for the department, and as part of efforts to clear the backlog, the municipalities were urged to refrain from storing them in their offices and make concerted efforts to ensure that people become the rightful owners of their homes. 

“The department has been incorporating the issuing of title deeds with housing handovers, given the urgency by government to significantly unlock economic benefits,” Kubayi said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 09/18/2023 - 09:55

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Streamlining Business Operations with Comprehensive Document Solutions

Location: MyPR

In the digital age, managing the ever-expanding universe of documents is a challenge businesses face daily. Enter a comprehensive document solution that caters to a wide range of industries, offering streamlined processes and increased efficiency. In this blog, we explore the diverse applications of this solution across various sectors.   Logistics (POD): Tracking and Delivery …

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Provincial departments commit to remove bottlenecks in housing delivery

Location: News

Provincial departments commit to remove bottlenecks in housing delivery

Human Settlements provincial departments have committed to remove bottlenecks that may result in project delays and blocked projects in housing delivery.

The provincial departments made the commitment during a meeting between Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi and Members of the Executive Council (MINMEC) of Human Settlements, Members of the Mayoral Councils (MMCs) of Human Settlements and Executive Mayors held at Bojanala Platinum District, North West, on Friday.

The meeting heard that from a target of 300 000, the sector is at 69.5% delivery, with 208 358 fully subsidised houses on the ground. 

Kubayi said this is no mean feat in the face of budget cuts the department has faced. 

She said about 172 066 serviced sites have been delivered from a projected number of 190 437. 

“First home finance has surpassed the 20 000 units mark, as targeted in 2019. To date, there are 22 035 units that have been delivered. The current delivery is against the budget cuts the Department of Human Settlements has faced over the years. 

“We are making inroads in ensuring that we bring more people into the housing market and thereby assisting the so-called ‘missing middle’ with home ownership,” Kubayi said.

The MINMEC received a report on the current fiscal environment and reflected on the response by the human settlements sector. 

While the sector understands and supports the efforts by the Finance Minister to stabilise the fiscus, MINMEC emphasised the need to find a balance between service delivery priorities and fiscal consolidation.

It was noted that the sector has so far had a mixed bag of performance during the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF) for 2019 - 2024 period. 

However, for the current financial year, concerns were raised about provincial spending, and provinces were urged to deliver in accordance with their business plans or face redirection of funds to performing provinces. 

The sector is currently at 32% spending, with eight months left in the financial year.

The meeting also noted major improvements made by the human settlements sector in ensuring that all claims are paid within 30 days. 

With the mandatory allocation of 40% set aside for first quarter performance, the provincial departments were acknowledged for making improvements in ensuring the budgets and contracts are set aside for businesses and companies owned by women, youth and people with disabilities.

Over 100 houses handed over to beneficiaries 

Meanwhile, ahead of the meeting, the department handed over house keys to beneficiaries of Moses Kotane Community Residential Units (CRU) - one of the affordable rental housing projects in the North West.

The CRUs include 110 units with bachelor and two-bedroom rental accommodations. It supports the upgrading of government-owned communal rental accommodation. 

As one of the departmental housing programmes, the CRUs are aimed at facilitating the provision of secure and stable rental tenure for lower income earners. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Mon, 09/18/2023 - 10:44

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