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Africa’s 25 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars

Location: News
African Energy Chamber

The African energy sector serves as a catalyst for global development, and in this dynamic industry that powers the modern world, a select group of remarkable women have emerged as trailblazers. The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (www.EnergyChamber.org) is proud to announce the “25 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars' - individuals whose dedication, ingenuity and unwavering commitment serve as beacons of hope and pillars of inspiration. These women are redefining the possibilities within a traditionally male-dominated field, and the AEC proudly celebrates the rising stars who are leading the way towards making energy poverty history by 2030.

In no particular order:

Gbemisola Adeyemi Afolabi, Junior Geoscientist, AMNI International

Adeyemi Afolabi, a budding Junior Geoscientist at AMNI International, is an emerging force in the energy sector. With a Masters' Degree in Energy Geosciences from Rice University, she brings a fresh perspective to her role. Adeyemi's educational background, combined with her passion for geoscience, underscores her dedication to exploring and understanding the Earth's resources. Afolabi's commitment to harnessing scientific knowledge for practical energy solutions sets her apart as a promising talent within AMNI International.

Ibilola Akinnola, LNG Shipbroker, Maersk

Ibilola Akinnola has a wealth of experience across the legal and logistics fields, and represents an individual whose creativity, commitment and drive has advanced the global energy industry. A qualified Solicitor and Barrister of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Akinnola went on to complete her Masters' degree in International Shipping Law at Queen Mary University of London. Now, she works at integrated logistics company Maersk as the LNG Shipbroker, and continues to make a lasting impact in the industry.

Rekik Bekele, CEO and Founder, Green Scene Energy

Rekik Bekele is a seasoned professional with over 10 years of experience in renewable energy. With a BSc in Electrical Engineering, she leads Green Scene Energy PLC as its CEO, providing affordable solar solutions in Ethiopia. Bekele also serves as a board member at Ethiopian Solar Energy Development Association, an Acumen fellow, and founder of PurposeBlack ETH and Run Africa. Her diverse initiatives drive positive change in energy and social development.

Sarah Bouzid, Technical Sales Lead: Production Systems Division, Schlumberger

Sarah Bouzid is a Chemical Engineer and Technical Sales Lead for Schlumberger's Production Systems Division – representing the only woman in this role in MENA region. Her expertise lies in the Audit to Optimize program, where she engages with clients to enhance process equipment performance. After completing an engineering degree from Bourmerdes University, she worked in various roles at Sonatrach. Navigating the largely male-dominated sector, Bouzid serves as a beacon of hope for women in science and engineering.  

Sandra Chukwudozie, CEO, Salpha Energy

Sandra Chukwudozie is the Founder & CEO of Salpha Energy, a company dedicated to providing clean, affordable and innovative energy solutions for a carbon-neutral future. She is also Executive Director of Dozzy, one of Africa's largest petroleum storage facilities. After completing her studies at the University of Dundee in 2015, Chukwudozie dedicated her professional life to supporting economic growth through energy development, gaining experience in international management, industrial relations and economics. Her innovation, resilience and ability to embrace change has made her a leader in her field and an inspiration to many across the industry.

Nadia Simao da Costa, HR People Analytics Supervisor, Chevron

Nadia Simao da Costa is the People Analytics Supervisor at Chevron and represents the youngest person to be selected for Human Resource leadership at the company in Angola. Leveraging analytics and evidence to develop strategies to manage the current and future workforce needs, Simao da Costa is a strong advocate for inclusivity and human capital development. As the African energy sector grows and more people enter the workforce, professionals such as Simao da Costa serve as valuable role models.

Eghosa Ebube, Portfolio Analyst, Chevron Nigeria

Eghosa Ebube, initially Project Engineer and now Portfolio Analyst at global energy powerhouse Chevron, brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Having honed her skills in various roles including Onshore Construction Engineer, she has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the energy sector. Her adeptness in engineering and her dedication to innovation shine through in her work, making her a pivotal contributor to Chevron's and Nigeria's energy success.

Katuiscia Laurence Ewane, General Field Engineer, SLB

With a Masters in Industrial Engineering from Ecole Nationale Supérieure Polytechnique, Katuiscia Laurence Ewane has spent several years working for global energy services company SLB. She currently serves as a General Field Engineer for the company and has pioneered several successful initiatives, including a new approach for the integration of Drilling Fluids and Cementing Fluids; completing a complex cementing operation on Mt Cameroon; and spearheading community outreach under the SLB Excellence in Educational Development program. Ewane is a testament to the important role female engineers play in Africa.

Taimi Itembu, Public and Government Affairs, ExxonMobil

A Harvard Kennedy School graduate with over 14 years' experience in leadership, energy and policy, Taimi Itembu represents an inspirational leader in Namibia's energy sector. She has served in various roles in the Namibian Government, showcasing her aptitude for policy dialogue and partnership building to drive transformation across the region. Her leadership in energy and exploration includes advocating for Africa strategy, investment protection, and a favorable operational environment, and as an industry expert, she represents a beacon of impactful leadership.

Anine Kilian: Managing Editor, Energy Capital & Power

Anine Kilian is a strong advocate for Africa's energy development. Currently serving as the Managing Editor for Africa-focused investment platform Energy Capital & Power, Kilian's journey began as a dedicated journalist and editor after studying at the Tshwane University of Technology in South Africa. Her career has taken her worldwide, and her expertise led her to become a pivotal writer at Creamer Media before joining Energy Capital & Power in 2018. Recognizing her talent and passion, Kilian was swiftly promoted to Managing Editor in 2021. Her journey epitomizes resilience, growth and a commitment to driving Africa's energy narrative at a time when the continent needs it most. Kilian represents a standout figure in the landscape of energy journalism and advocacy.  

Ubuhle Noluti Mtetwa, National Manager, Secondary Logistics, bp Southern Africa

Armed with a degree in Transport Economics and Logistics Management, Ubuhle Noluti Mtetwa spearheads innovative projects in a traditionally male-dominated industry. In a relatively short period of time, Mtetwa climbed the ranks at bp from Logistics Intern to National Manager of Secondary Distribution. Now, she supports diversity efforts, using her platform to not only advance logistics in Africa's energy industry but support the progression of others.

Faith Musimenta, Senior Petroleum Economic and Financial Analyst, Petroleum Authority of Uganda

Faith Musimenta is currently the Senior Petroleum Economic and Financial Analyst at the Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU), where she leverages her skills in investment analysis to develop oil and gas financial models for billion-dollar projects. After competing her studies at the University of Dundee, Musimenta worked for various financial institutions including Citi Bank, Diamond Trust Bank and DFCU Bank. She represents an inspiration for women across the African financial sector, and continues to advocate for both inclusivity, sustainability and development of Uganda's oil and gas industry. 

Nancy Asantewah Nkansah, Resource Manager: Planning and Supply Chain for West Africa, SLB

Nancy Asantewah Nkansah, a Resource Coordinator at SLB with 8+ years' experience, excels in planning chemical requirements and workforce coordination for efficient operations. With a BA in Political Science and a Geography minor, she spearheads resource management, enhances supply chain efficiency and facilitates environmentally responsible practices. From groundbreaking innovations to resilient problem-solving, Nkansah is redefining the energy industry in Africa.

Ezinne Nnachetta, Development Geologist, Chevron

Following the completion of her MSc in Petroleum Geoscience at Imperial College London, Ezinne Nnachetta has gained significant experience as a leading geoscientist for global energy major Chevron. Her 10-year commitment to the company demonstrates her dedication to opening up new hydrocarbon basins, integrating innovation with petroleum and forging new paths for women in energy. Nnachetta represents a role model for aspiring women in the field. 

Teresa Isabel Nnang Avomo, CEO, GEPetrol

Teresa Isabel Nnang Ovomo, accomplished CEO of Equatorial Guinea's national oil company GEPetrol, ascended to the position after working in various positions at the company, including Deputy Director of Operations where she streamlined and optimized the NOC's upstream operations. Armed with a Masters from Heriot-Watt University, her journey includes various pivotal roles at Repsol. Avomo's leadership exemplifies operational acumen, innovation and drive, and she serves as an inspirational figurehead, both in Namibia's and Africa's energy sectors.

Monique Ntumngia, CEO, Green Girls Project

Monique Ntumngia is a sustainability entrepreneur and advocate for climate-gender justice. Founding Green Girls Organization, a Pan-African energy social enterprise, she leverages AI to pinpoint clean energy challenges faced by women in African rural communities. She is also the Founder of Monafrik Energy, whereby Monique measures and compares environmental impacts in supply chains, advancing clean energy initiatives. Her impactful work exemplifies her dedication to providing clean, affordable energy solutions not just in Cameroon but across Africa and beyond.

Lynette Nyagah, Project Lead, Bentworth Energy

As Project Lead at East Africa's pioneer oil and gas service company, Lynette Nyagah plays a pivotal role in establishing robust operational and quality systems. A graduate from the University of Cape Town, Nyagah gained experience in the sector as a Field Engineer for Baker Hughes. Now, she plays an instrumental part in positioning Bentworth as a globally recognized and competitive firm. Advocating for innovation in carbon footprint reduction, automation for enhanced efficiency, and the increase in participation by local African companies, Nyagha is an inspiration to many in the industry.

Oneyka Cindy Ojogbo, Partner, Centurion Law Group

Oneyka Cindy Ojogbo has a proven track record of providing strategic counsel to clients in complex energy transactions and projects. A graduate of Columbia Law School, Ojogbo currently serves as a Partner of Centurion Law Group, a pan-African legal and business advisory group. Throughout her career, Ojogbo has counselled clients across power, energy and infrastructure sectors. Her work has covered multiple sectors and tackled transactions of varying complexity, with her determination, passion and vision serving as an inspiration for many.

Isioma Okolo, Reservoir Engineer, Shell

Isioma Okolo is a Reservoir Engineer with the Shell Petroleum Development Company in Nigeria. She holds a Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Petroleum Engineering from The Federal University of Technology Owerri and an MBA from the Edinburgh Business School, Heriot-Watt University. Having worked as a Consultant in Pricewaterhouse Coopers and as a Society of Petroleum Engineering Certified Engineer, Okolo is paving the way for a prosperous future for Africa and beyond.

Uzochukwu Ozoh, Legal Advisor, Chevron

With a LLM from the University of Dundee and an MBA from Imperial College Business School, Uzochukwu Ozoh has emerged as an accomplished transactional lawyer who merges business acumen, legal prowess and risk analysis within the energy sector. Currently serving as Legal Advisor at Chevron, Ozoh guides a team of legal experts facilitating intricate gas, commercial, and supply chain transactions exceeding US$1 billion. Her mastery of stakeholder relations, leadership and organizational development makes her a force to be reckoned with.

Lecticia Sepulvede, Public and Government Affairs Advisor, ExxonMobil

Lecticia Sepulvede has a Masters in Petroleum, Energy, Economics and Finance from the University of Aberdeen and currently serves as the Public and Government Affairs Advisor for global energy major ExxonMobil. Her vision is to support Mozambicans achieve their full potential, and she works closely with stakeholders to facilitate safety and security efforts in the Cabo Delgado province of the country. Her commitment to people, her focus on the energy sector, and her ability to manage stressful environments makes her a highly valuable and admirable energy professional.

Eman S Shahin, Performance Lead and Senior Petroleum Engineer, Dragon Oil Egypt

Eman Shahin is a proficient Performance Lead and Senior Petroleum Engineer (SPE) at Dragon Oil Egypt, and boasts over 9 years' experience in reservoir, petroleum and production engineering. Her prowess spans budgeting, production forecasting, reservoir development planning and optimizing waterflood management. As a leader and coach at SPE Egypt, her commitment to mentorship shines. With roots at Cairo University and experience at GUPCO, Shahin's journey embodies expertise, leadership and fostering an inclusive energy landscape.

Mwanyengwa Ndapewoshali Shapwanale, Director: Communications and Stakeholders Relations, ReconEnergy Namibia

Mwanyengwa Ndapewoshali Shapwanale is the Director of Communication and Stakeholder Relations at Recon Energy Namibia. With a degree in Communication and Media Studies from the University of Cape Town and 10 years' experience in journalism and communication, she brings valuable compliance and ESG skills to her role in the energy sector. As the youngest member of Recon's management, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization's communication landscape.

Natznet Tesfay, VP Economics & Country Risk, S&P Global

Natznet Tesfay is Vice President of Economics & Country Risk at S&P Global Market Intelligence. Leading a global team of 150+ experts, she forecasts economic and country risk outlooks. With a rich background at IHS Markit and Exclusive Analysis, her expertise spans geopolitical analysis, energy transition and supply chain alignment. With degrees from Harvard University, The London School of Economics, and SOAS University of London, she has emerged as a trailblazer and advocate for Africa's economic future.

Nidra Araba Yebuah, Digital and Integration Account Manager for Ghana and Equatorial Guinea, SLB

Nidra Araba Yebuah is an accomplished Senior Geologist and Account Manager with over a decade of experience in the oil and gas service industry. She blends technical proficiency with business acumen to excel in her role. Her expertise spans data interpretation, geological environments and technical sales support. Yebuah has significantly contributed to sub-Saharan African operations, demonstrating innovation and leadership in the dynamic industry.

Call for Nominations

If you were not chosen this year, or if you nominated someone who was not selected, please understand that the process is highly selective, and we encourage you to re-submit updated information in 2024. We welcome suggestions of well-deserving candidates throughout the year. Simply email awben@energychamber.org. We look forward to honoring outstanding 25 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars again in 2024.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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9 Reasons KZN South Coast is Worth Celebrating this Tourism Month

Location: MyPR

September is not only a celebration of renewal with the arrival of spring, it’s also a commemoration of Tourism Month, Heritage Month, and all the wonderfully unique offerings that South Africa presents. To celebrate this, visitors are encouraged to head to the KZN South Coast where they can uncover adventures from the ocean depths to …

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SA, China cooperation can bring joint benefit for the future

Location: News

SA, China cooperation can bring mutual benefit for the future

Cooperation between China and South Africa can be a source of development and mutual benefit between both countries.

This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa through his weekly newsletter released ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's Official State Visit to South Africa on Tuesday.

Diplomatic relations between South Africa and the Asian powerhouse span some 25 years with cooperation in several sectors including trade and investment, energy and tourism.

“We are encouraged by China’s ongoing commitment to supporting African countries to meet the aspirations contained in the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and to the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

“As we mark this significant milestone in South Africa-China relations, our country stands ready to work closely with the government and people of China towards a shared future of meaningful and mutual benefit,” he said.

The President highlighted that China’s development plan for its people, particularly in tackling poverty, has borne significant fruit – a feat that South Africa can learn from.

“South Africa has a great deal to learn from China’s development path. Among other achievements, China has lifted nearly 800 million people out of poverty over a 40 year period. According to World Bank data, through this China has contributed close to three quarters of the global reduction in the number of people living in extreme poverty.

“South Africa is eager to deepen its collaboration within the frameworks of China’s common prosperity doctrine and strategy and our own National Development Plan and Economic Reconstruction and Development Plan. South Africa is also keen to harness the developmental potential of China’s Belt and Road Initiative announced by President Xi in 2013.

“We are actively collaborating on the design and implementation of poverty alleviation strategies aligned with our respective developmental visions, as well as on women and youth empowerment,” President Ramaphosa said.

Areas for collaboration

Turning to tourism and energy, the President said these sectors offer great opportunities for both countries.

“Energy cooperation between South Africa and China is a focus area that holds great promise. In June this year companies from both countries participated in a New Energy Investment and Cooperation Conference, which looked at opportunities for collaboration in the green economy, the just energy transition and on the transfer of science and technology.

“Tourism promotion is another area of cooperation. With the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, China is an important source for tourism. It is significant that the number of visitors from China in June 2023 was four times higher than the same time last year.

“South African Tourism expects that inbound Chinese tourism will recover to pre-COVID levels by 2026. We will be actively promoting our country as a tourism destination for Chinese tourists at the China International Import Expo, China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo and others. It is encouraging that direct flights between South Africa and China are increasing,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said this week’s Official State Visit will bring an opportunity for the two nations to address the trade deficit between the two.

“Bilateral trade with China has grown exponentially, from less than R1 billion in 1998 to over R614 billion in 2022. We hope to use this state visit to discuss how to narrow the significant trade deficit that exists in China’s favour, mainly through facilitating greater entry of value-added South African goods, products and services into the Chinese market,” he said.

International Affairs

President Ramaphosa highlighted that South Africa and China participate in several groupings on the international stage.

“In addition to a number of structured bilateral mechanisms, South Africa and China collaborate on international strategic platforms such as the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation or FOCAC, BRICS, the G20, the G77 plus China alliance, and others.

“In 2025, South Africa will assume the Presidency of the G20 group of countries, and we are encouraged by China’s support for our Presidency.

“Our collaboration with China in international affairs and on multilateral platforms is underpinned by a commitment to the transformation of global governance institutions to make them more inclusive and to give more developing economy countries a voice,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 08/21/2023 - 09:09

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SA, Namibia talks focus on energy security

Location: News

SA, Namibia talks focus on energy security

South Africa and fellow SADC [Southern Africa Development Community] country, Namibia, have explored areas of mutual cooperation in energy generation at a ministerial level meeting on Friday.

The Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, on Friday undertook a working visit to Namibia to participate in a bilateral meeting with the Minister of Mines and Energy in Namibia, Tom Alweendo.

The meeting explored opportunities for mutual cooperation between South Africa and Namibia in the following areas:

  • Energy Generation – focusing on how natural resource endowments can be leveraged to support energy generation, regional sovereignty and regional energy security.
  • Transmission infrastructure planning – regional interconnectivity in the context of the SADC Power Pool.
  • Hydrogen Economy – benefaction to support regional socio-economic development.

A senior team of Eskom executives formed part of the delegation and shared the work already underway, and future planning to strengthen and expand the existing transmission infrastructure spanning from the Northern Cape in South Africa to Oranjemond in the south of Namibia.

The meeting discussed the development and exploitation of gas reserves from the Kudu fields in the Orange Basin to provide affordable gas fired base load power of up to 840MW for 35 years. South Africa could benefit from up to 600MW of this.

The meeting also took note of opportunities in the green hydrogen sector, including:

  • Trading of green hydrogen-based products, such as green ammonia and green steel.
  • Supply of components such as solar panels, electrolysers and wind turbines.
  • Development of requisite infrastructure from a corridor perspective.
  • Cooperation to introduce affordable technology for the electrolysis process.
  • Collaborative funding and deliberate project preparation to ensure shared benefit for all.

“Reiterating our historic political and cultural ties, Minister Ramokgopa expressed the hope that the visit and work around energy security and regional energy sovereignty will further cement the strong bonds between our Republics, in the interest of the development of the Region and its People,” Minister Ramokgopa’s office said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sat, 08/19/2023 - 15:51

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Industrial Magnets and Magnetic Separators: A Comprehensive Guide

Location: MyPR

Introduction In the vast realm of the industrial sector, magnets play an instrumental role, often operating behind the scenes but making a significant impact. Their importance is further magnified when one considers the crucial process of magnetic separation, a technique employed across various industries to segregate magnetic materials from their non-magnetic counterparts.   Types of …

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New R1.9-billion industrial park breaks ground at Giba Gorge

Location: MyPR

The R1.9-billion Giba Business Estate, the largest light industrial and logistics development to break ground within Durban’s Outer West in more than three years, will not only create hundreds of short term and permanent jobs but also significantly boost the greater eThekwini region’s GDP. Speaking at the official sod turning for the development on Wednesday, …

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What Technology is Used in Home Automation?

Location: MyPR

Introduction Home automation, once a concept limited to sci-fi novels and futuristic movies, has seamlessly integrated into our daily lives. As technology continues to evolve, our homes are becoming smarter, more efficient, and, most importantly, more comfortable. The allure of a home that responds to our needs, learns our preferences, and even anticipates our desires …

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AECOM highlights the importance of young talent on International Youth Day

Location: MyPR

Held this year under the theme of ‘Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World’, globally trusted infrastructure consulting firm AECOM is celebrating International Youth Day on Saturday 12 August by showcasing the important role played by some of its young candidate engineers in sustainable transport. Document Downloads. Chris Britz, Transport Operations Leader and Market …

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Navigating the Path to Your Dream Home: How to Find the Perfect House Position

Location: MyPR

Introduction: Embarking on the journey of building your dream home is an exciting endeavour, and at its heart lies a crucial element – the house plan. This blueprint not only serves as a roadmap for construction but also shapes the very essence of your living space. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies …

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What Does a Logistics Company Execute? An In-Depth Exploration

Location: MyPR

Introduction Logistics is a term that encompasses the complex process of planning, implementing, and controlling the efficient flow and storage of goods, services, and related information from the point of origin to the point of consumption. It plays a vital role in supply chain management, ensuring that products reach consumers in a timely and cost-effective …

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Government committed to advancing the lives of women

Location: News

Government committed to advancing the lives of women

President Cyril Ramaphosa has used his address at the Women’s Day event to encourage all sectors of society to advance and improve the lives of the women and girls of South Africa.

“We must mobilise all of society to support the women of our country on their road to empowerment and the improvement of their lives. As government, we are irrevocably committed to continuing the process of advancing and improving the lives of the women and girls of South Africa,” the President said on Wednesday in Pretoria.

He was addressing the commemoration of Women’s Day, which is being celebrated under the theme, ‘Accelerating Socio-Economic Opportunities for Women’s Empowerment’.

This theme highlights the need to ensure that all women have access to participate equally in all areas of human endeavour.

“We call upon other key role players who control resources and can open opportunities for women to do so. Business is well placed to play a key role in this process of helping to improve the lives of the women of South Africa,” Ramaphosa said.

The President outlined a number of areas that government and the private sector can address to advance and improve the lives of women.

He emphasised the importance of increasing the representation of women in all structures of society.

“Women must be well represented in key positions in government, in management, in the judiciary. The representation of women in decision-making structures continues to improve.

“In Cabinet, half of the Ministers are women. In Parliament, in the judiciary, in the public service, in the armed forces, in the police and in many local councils, we are getting closer to gender parity,” Ramaphosa said.

Acknowledging these gains, he said more needs to be done to achieve a society of true gender equality.

“There must be policies and laws that focus and advance the lives of women. Our laws and policies must have a bias towards improving the lives of women.

“Since the advent of democracy in 1994, we have put policies and laws in place to empower women, improve their lives and advance gender equality,” the President said.

While he called for the prioritisation of the advancement in education, he noted some achievements in that area.

This, as more female learners sit for matric than males. Female learners are achieving more Bachelor’s passes.

In addition, young women make up the majority of students enrolled in higher education institutions.

The President expressed concern on girls dropping out of school, often due to domestic responsibilities.

“As a society and as families and as a nation we must ensure that our girls stay at school and finish school. Women’s health outcomes continue to improve as a result of progressive policies around reproductive health, antenatal care, HIV/Aids and other communicable diseases.

“Even though women’s health outcomes have improved by a number of indicators, women still carry the largest share of the burden of HIV and are more vulnerable to sexually transmitted diseases.

“Despite our laws, women and girls in many parts of the country still struggle to access reproductive health services,” the President said.

Equal representation in the economy

He called for the participation of women in the country’s economy to be improved.

“Our economy remains dominated by men. More women are unemployed than men. Women are more likely to work part-time, unskilled and semi-skilled jobs and for lower pay. Women are disproportionately responsible for unpaid care work.

“As a result of all these factors, women are more vulnerable to poverty, food insecurity and hunger. Even today, nearly three decades after the dawn of democracy, the face of poverty is a black women.

“The emancipation of women therefore cannot be achieved without economic empowerment. Women must also be breadwinners. They must have equal job opportunities and equal pay. They must be able to start, own and manage businesses,” the President said.

He said women need to have the financial security and independence to have control over their lives.

“We are determined to make the most of available resources to make a difference in the lives of young women, women with disabilities, rural women and LGBTQI+ women. We are making a difference in the lives of women in Small, Medium and Micro enterprises (SMMEs), in cooperatives and in the informal sector,” the President said.

Among other things, government is supporting women’s economic empowerment through public procurement.

Government has made a commitment to allocate at least 40% of public procurement to women-owned businesses.

“While government departments are working in earnest to award more contracts to women-owned businesses, we need to do much more. As things stand, less than a third of the companies listed on the government’s central supplier database are women-owned.

“We have trained more than 6,000 women entrepreneurs to take part in public procurement opportunities. The success of this programme has convinced us of the need to train many more entrepreneurs in their thousands.

“The African Continental Free Trade Area will give women-owned businesses in South Africa and across the continent access to new markets and opportunities. We are working with partners on opportunities for women’s employment and entrepreneurship in agriculture, manufacturing, technology, the oceans economy and others,” the President said.

He also mentioned that the green economy presents immense potential for women’s entrepreneurship and empowerment, especially in renewable energy.

“In a number of cities and towns there are many women who are established as green entrepreneurs working in recycling, in greening, in climate-smart agriculture and a number of other avenues.

We call on the business community to support women’s economic empowerment by partnering with small businesses as part of their green economy plans. There is also immense opportunity for young women in public employment initiatives,” the President said.

Presidential Employment Stimulus

Since it was established in 2020, the Presidential Employment Stimulus has provided work and livelihood opportunities to more than 1.2 million people. Of the participants in the programme, more than 60% are women.

The President has reiterated that the just transition to a low-carbon, climate resilient society protects the interests of women, as it does for all those affected, and that it offers opportunities for women workers and women-owned businesses.

Government is supporting women-owned businesses to expand and diversify. We are specifically increasing our support for women-owned SMMEs through the National Empowerment Fund, the Small Enterprise Finance Agency and others.

“Working with the financial services sector, we are looking to close the gender gap so that women can access banking services and credit for their businesses.

“As a country, we have the right policies and programmes in place. Led by the women of our country, we continue to develop policies that will advance their interests.

What we need now is to intensify the collective efforts of all social partners, including business, to do more to financially empower women,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

nosihle
Wed, 08/09/2023 - 14:57

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Mathe Group and Van Dyck step up investment and innovation

Location: MyPR

Hammarsdale-based radial truck tyre recycler, Mathe Group, has received a new Waste Management License for a new R65-million plus tyre recycling facility which will be positioned alongside its already highly successful existing operation. CEO of Mathe Group and sister company, Van Dyck, Dr Mehran Zarrebini, says that negotiations with a potential funder are well under …

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Comprehensive Valuation Services: From Land to Vintage Cars and Beyond

Location: MyPR

Introduction: When it comes to accurate and reliable valuation services, one name stands out as a leader in the industry. With a diverse range of expertise and a commitment to excellence, their comprehensive valuation services cover a vast array of assets, from land and buildings to vintage cars and sports memorabilia. In this blog post, …

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Nzimande calls on BRICS partners to invest in science, innovation

Location: News

Nzimande calls on BRICS partners to invest in science, innovation

Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, has called on his partners from BRICS to develop science and innovation capacities across Africa for the creation of a better future for all. 

Nzimande was speaking on Friday at the 2023 BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India and China and South Africa) Ministerial Meeting on Science and Innovation in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape. 

He told his counterparts from Brazil, Russia, India and China that one of the strategic objectives of the annual ministerial meeting is to provide an opportunity for a high-level exchange on science, technology, and innovation policy. 

The platform is to also share information on priority investment areas, as well as national progress in the implementation of BRICS partnership initiatives.  

He told delegates that in 2022, the country witnessed a historic milestone in science policy development with the adoption of the Decadal Plan. 

The Decadal Plan, approved by Cabinet, focuses on growing South Africa by finding sources of new economic growth for a re-industrialised and modern economy.

“Although prepared by my department, it is not only a plan for the Department of Science and Innovation, or for government alone, but for all of South Africa,” he said. 

The plan also seeks to put science, technology, and innovation at the heart of South Africa’s growth and development agenda.

Meanwhile, the Innovation and Skills Compact will undertake amongst others a regulatory reform to create a more enabling policy environment for innovation in South Africa. 

It will also forge a closer collaboration between higher education and training bodies, and employers, to ensure that skills development better corresponds to the needs of the economy.  

“Our plan does not identify priorities [of] scientific disciplines or technology platforms in their own right, but instead focus on the collective and holistic response of South African science and innovation on key societal challenges confronting South Africa.

“This approach notably foresees a central role by the social sciences and humanities, which remains a priority investment area.”

He also touched on the strengthening BRICS collaboration, namely vaccine manufacturing, the hydrogen economy, and the marine sciences.  

“The Decadal Plan proposes a new dedicated programme on innovation for a healthy South African population.  

“This programme will focus on both physical and mental health; build on our existing successes in for example the fight against infectious diseases such as HIV-AIDS, while also reinforcing our pandemic preparedness.”

The Minister said developing South Africa’s vaccine manufacturing capabilities will be a priority investment area.  

“Our objective is to develop a viable local vaccine manufacturing industry in South Africa, which will notably address African concerns regarding the security of supply.”

The plan will also zoom into energy security as a priority, which has led to the implementation of South Africa’s Hydrogen Society Roadmap.

The roadmap also seeks to exploit South Africa’s unique comparative advantage, the endowment of 75% of global platinum metals group reserves.

“We have made excellent progress in developing new hydrogen and fuel cell technologies and are keen to join forces with BRICS partners in this enterprise.

“Opportunities abound in areas such as the decarbonisation of transport and the production of green hydrogen, including as part of a dedicated Platinum Valley, spatial and economic development initiative.”

Nzimande said the country is also committed to the marine sciences and the development of a blue economy.  

He explained that cooperation with partners in the Global South and strengthening multilateralism and solidarity through our BRICS science, technology, and innovation partnership is a priority of the highest order.  

“I, therefore, have every confidence that our BRICS partners will join us in an effort, within the spirit of generosity President Mandela spoke about, to also develop science and innovation capacities across Africa. This will be a lasting contribution of our shared objective to creating a better future for all, ensuring no one is left behind.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 08/04/2023 - 13:50

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