Seal attacks contribute to African penguin’s looming extinction
Namibian breeding colonies decimated by predation
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Cinema attendance surges on back of strong content
The recent surge in cinema attendances, on the back of strong content, has seen average weekly cinema attendances more than double over the past four weeks According to Eric Blignaut, National Sales Manager at Ster-Kinekor, these numbers were driven largely by three top-performing titles: Bad Boys: Ride or Die, Inside Out 2 and Despicable Me …
Tribunal urged to restore Makhubele’s dignity
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Electricity system still vulnerable despite 120 days with no load shedding
Electricity system still vulnerable despite 120 days with no load shedding
While this week marks 120 days without load shedding in South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa says it is too soon to claim victory.
“Our electricity system is still vulnerable, and we cannot yet rule out a possibility of further load shedding,” President Ramaphosa said on Tuesday.
The President said this when he tabled the 2024/25 Presidency Budget Vote in Parliament.
He told Members of Parliament (MPs) that one of the greatest impediments to economic growth has been the electricity crisis, which the Presidency has been instrumental in addressing.
The National Energy Crisis Committee, which was established in 2022 to oversee the implementation of the Energy Action Plan, is chaired by the President and coordinated at a technical level by the Director-General in the Presidency.
“With the support of the National Energy Crisis Committee, there has been a marked improvement in the performance of Eskom’s power stations, which produce the bulk of South Africa’s electricity.”
WATCH | President Cyril Ramaphosa addresses the National Assembly during the tabling of the Presidency’s Budget Vote.
Meanwhile, he said regulatory changes have enabled substantial new investment in electricity generation.
He announced that government has also been working closely with independent power producers (IPPs) in steering their projects through to the construction phase, contributing significantly to the reduction in the severity of load shedding.
“We are going to continue working with companies, financial institutions and business organisations, both South African and international, during the course of our ambitious investment drive over the last five years.”
According to the Head of State, alleviating load shedding, improving the performance of the logistics system, reducing the cost of data, improving water supply, attracting the much-needed skills, and the reforms already underway will provide a significant boost to the economy in the medium term.
“In addition, these reforms support the repositioning of strategic State-owned enterprises by strengthening their balance sheets and improving their operational performance, while also enabling higher levels of private investment in infrastructure.”
READ | President: 100 days of no load shedding no reason to relax
Corruption
The President also touched on corruption and stated that government has made important progress in implementing the recommendations of the State Capture Commission.
“This includes the work of our law enforcement agencies to bring perpetrators to justice and to recover stolen funds, as well as the legislative and other changes needed to strengthen the fight against corruption and prevent state capture.”
In addition, he said the Presidency plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the work of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has an impact and that people involved in wrongdoing face the consequences of their actions.
“The Presidency has forged a close working relationship with the SIU and law enforcement agencies to monitor the implementation of the recommendations for criminal, disciplinary and administrative action arising from SIU investigations,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 07/23/2024 - 15:30
338 views
Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series set to bring the vibe to the streets of Tshwane in August
The streets of Tshwane will be transformed into a playground of athletic prowess and community spirit on Sunday, 25 August 2024 when thousands of runners gather to be part of the action of the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K. Expect cheers, challenges, and a vibrant atmosphere that embodies the essence of Tshwane’s running …
Empowering Young Minds: ABC For Life’s Commitment To Literacy In Hout Bay
ABC for Life, a non-governmental organisation dedicated to enhancing literacy among children in underserved communities, is transforming the lives of young learners in Hout Bay. Bay Harbour Market, a family-friendly community market, celebrates these efforts and encourages support from others. Established by Lola Kramer and Val Toledo, ABC for Life has been on a 17-year …
200 oil producers, stakeholders from Southern Africa gather in Pretoria
200 oil producers, stakeholders from Southern Africa gather in Pretoria
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) will this week host the 3rd South African Conference on Essential and Vegetable Oils, bringing together 200 oil producers and stakeholders from across South Africa and Southern Africa.
The event aims to share innovative trends in the global marketplace, including various applications for essential and vegetable oils, and to address critical issues faced by this industry.
According to the department, attendees will gain valuable insights from proven experts on the most pressing challenges, equipping them with the knowledge needed to thrive in the dynamic essential and vegetable oils sector.
Acting Deputy Director-General of Sectors at the dtic, Thandi Phele, said the upcoming conference will be a significant step in strengthening the quality of essential and vegetable oil exports from South Africa.
Phele said the conference will highlight the “technical competence and the sustainability of the National Quality Infrastructure system and the conformity assessment services that serve the selected value chains in this industry”.
SADC compliance with international standards, technical regulations and culture for quality will be addressed.
“This conference will serve as a pivotal platform for knowledge sharing and networking among key industry players. Our collaboration with SECO, UNIDO, and SAEOPA underscores our commitment to fostering growth and innovation within the essential and vegetable oils industry," she said.
The conference will feature a series of presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, focusing on:
• Innovative trends shaping the global essential and vegetable oils market
• Addressing critical challenges faced by producers and stakeholders
• Strategies for expanding market reach from local to global
Head of SECO in South Africa, Daniel Lauchenauer, says the gathering presents an unparalleled opportunity for stakeholders to engage with industry leaders, share best practices, and forge partnerships that will drive the industry forward.
According to SAEOPA, the global essential oils market size was valued at $11 billion in 2023. It is projected to grow to $12,47 billion in 2024 and $27,82 billion by 2032.
South African exports of essential oils, perfumes, cosmetics and toiletries was $679 million during 2023, according to the United Nations Commodity Trade Statistics database on international trade.
The department will host the conference at the South African National Botanical Gardens in Pretoria from 25-26 July 2024, in partnership with the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO, the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and the Southern African Essential Oils Producers Association (SAEOPA),
The theme for the conference is “Local to Global: East West, Home is Best”. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 07/23/2024 - 09:45
186 views
We should act against lawyers who undermine the Constitution
There are advocates who are skilled liars, dissemblers, manipulators and propagandists; they employ the implements of legal practice to bedevil and confuse and dismay - the judiciary and the profession should take action
Experience 5km running at its best at the 2024 Boxer Super Run! Entries are officially open.
The action-packed Boxer Super Run returns to Durban on Sunday, 13 October 2024. Both social and elite runners (and walkers) can look forward to experiencing 5km running at its finest. Entries are officially open! Launched in 2023 in a partnership between Stillwater Sports, Boxer Superstores and Coca-Cola, the Boxer Super Run is a world class …
Richard Manzini Finalist For BBQ Awards: South Africa’S Premier Black Business Awards Businessman Of The Year
Johannesburg, 21 July 2024: The search is on for South Africa’s leaders in transformation and Mr Richard Manzini, CEO of Daybreak Foods, has been announced as a finalist in the BBQ Businessman of the Year Awards. The BBQ Awards is South Africa’s most prestigious and longest running black business awards ceremony. For almost 2 decades, …
Mr. Waxed Expands Capabilities with Acquisition of Epson SureColor SC-F9400 Sublimation Printer
Johannesburg, South Africa – July 19, 2024 – Waxed Branding, a leading corporate branding company with 15 years of industry experience, has announced the acquisition of a new Epson SureColor SC-F9400 sublimation printer. This strategic investment is set to enhance the company’s textile printing capabilities and expand its service offerings in the corporate branding sector. …
Crown Relocations and Crown Records Management South Africa Make a Meaningful Impact on Mandela Day 2024
67 minutes may seem like a small pocket of time, but when South Africans band together, the impact can be monumental. This Mandela Day, volunteers from Crown Relocations South Africa and Crown Records Management South Africa dedicated their time and effort to pack 150 meal packs and knit 150 scarves, distributing them to those in …
Willowton Group spends their 67 Minutes on Mandela Day by Preparing 670 Sandwiches for Old Age Homes & Orphanages in Pietermaritzburg
Leading edible oil producer, Willowton Group, manufacturers of Sunfoil Pure Sunflower Oil and Sunshine D Margarine and spreads, has reached out to local orphanages and old age homes to come together to celebrate Mandela Day. To honour the legacy of the great Tata Madiba, the Willowton Group are celebrating the 15th edition of Mandela Day …
Afrika Tikkun Announces 30 Year Milestone: Developing A Brighter Future For South Africa’s Youth From Cradle To Career
17 July 2024, Johannesburg: As the nation grapples with ongoing stark inequalities, pervasive poverty and a dire youth unemployment rate, Afrika Tikkun, a leading youth development non-profit organisation, marks its 30-year legacy of creating holistic development, sustainable impact and tackling South Africa’s (SA’s) entrenched socio-economic disparities to foster an equitable society for all. The country’s …
Help for struggling municipalities
Help for struggling municipalities
To achieve rapid and inclusive growth, South Africa must address struggling municipalities and appoint qualified professionals to top positions.
This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who delivered a televised Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) on Thursday evening.
“Growth happens at a local level, where people live and work,” the President said.
The Head of State took the time to outline the government’s agenda, priorities, and policies for the next five years in a joint sitting of the newly constituted two Houses of Parliament.
The Opening of Parliament signifies the formal start of the parliamentary year following the May 29 General Elections.
President Ramaphosa said municipalities should provide social services and promote inclusive economic growth.
“They must work to attract investment. This approach can encourage businesses to expand and create more jobs in municipal areas. Investors are attracted to areas with reliable and modern infrastructure.”
eThekwini municipality
The President also spoke at length about the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, which is currently under the Presidential Working Group, to enhance support from the national and provincial government and turn the metro around.
“When I visited eThekwini earlier this year, I met with residents of the city, with local business leaders and municipal officials. They told me that they wanted to work together to build a city that they could be proud of again.”
He said the group was working around the clock to fix the problems in water and sanitation to attract new investment.
“We will extend the same approach to other metropolitan cities that face serious challenges so that our cities can be engines of growth and dynamic centres of opportunity.
“eThekwini must be restored to its former glory,” he stressed.
Simplifying and speeding up planning and regulatory processes can make it easier for businesses to invest and operate in a municipality, thus creating more jobs.
“As the national government, we have both a Constitutional responsibility and a clear electoral mandate to assist municipalities in the effective exercise of their powers and functions.
“We will ensure that the institutional structure and funding model for local government is fit-for-purpose and that municipalities are financially and operationally sustainable.”
Qualified professionals
In addition, the President assured South Africa that government will ensure the appointment of capable, qualified people to senior positions in municipalities as well as independent regulation and oversight of the appointment process.
“As an immediate priority, we will bring stability to governance in our metros and restore the delivery of services. We have already begun this work,” he said.
On Tuesday, newly appointed Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, said the seventh administration was committed to working towards turning around dysfunctional municipalities.
Hlabisa used his Budget Vote Speech to acknowledge some of the challenges faced by local municipalities.
He said the department will continue to implement and enforce compliance with Municipal Support and Intervention Plans (MSIPs) and employ financial recovery plans in distressed municipalities.
The Minister said the current leadership plans to prioritise five additional municipalities that are in severe financial and governance distress which has negatively impacted service delivery.
Some of the five additional municipalities that will receive attention include Ditsobotla in the North West, Kopanong and Mafube in the Free State, Emfuleni in Gauteng and Thabazimbi in Limpopo. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 21:00
492 views
GNU to add more tax-exempt food items
GNU to add more tax-exempt food items
As South Africa grapples with high poverty levels and the cost of living, the Government of National Unity (GNU) will look to expand the range of essential food items exempt from value-added tax (VAT).
President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Thursday that the GNU will undertake a comprehensive review of administered prices, including the fuel price formula, to identify areas where prices can be reduced.
The President said the 10 GNU parties have resolved to dedicate the next five years to actions that will advance three strategic priorities. These include driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical and developmental State.
The Head of State believes that a robust and inclusive strategy to alleviate poverty is essential to safeguard and assist the most vulnerable in society.
“Even at a time when many companies are making large profits, millions of South Africans are suffering as a result of rising prices.”
The President delivered his Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) in Cape Town, outlining the government’s agenda, priorities, and policies for the next five years during a joint sitting of the two newly constituted Houses of Parliament.
Income to support the unemployed
The government has implemented various interventions to support the unemployed, including the introduction of the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant during the COVID-19 pandemic, said the President.
“The SRD Grant has provided a lifeline to millions of unemployed people.”
He announced that the state would use this grant as a basis for introducing a sustainable form of income support for unemployed people to address the challenge of income poverty.
“We must ensure that local governments properly implement the indigent policy so that the old, the infirm and the poor can get assistance with the payment of basic services.
“Importantly, we will link social assistance with other forms of support to lift people out of poverty.”
He acknowledged the impact that a well-functioning and quality education system has on both reducing poverty and driving inclusive economic growth.
Asset poverty
In addition, President Ramaphosa said asset poverty was one of the underlying causes of abject poverty, which exacerbates the high cost of living among people.
“The provision of title deeds for land and subsidised housing provides people with assets that they can use to improve their economic position.
“Income poverty is also one of the underlying causes of poverty,” he added.
The most effective way to address poverty is by ensuring that people have access to jobs.
To create more jobs for South Africans, he said the seventh administration will focus on processing minerals so that the country exports finished products rather than raw commodities.
“We will pursue a smart industrial policy that focuses on the competitiveness of our economy, and that incentivises businesses to expand our exports and create jobs.
“We will continue to work with stakeholders to develop and implement Master Plans to grow important industries, increase investment, create jobs and foster transformation.
“We are convinced that small businesses and the informal sector hold the greatest potential for inclusive growth and job creation,” said the President. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 22:19
16 views
All eyes on SA’s First Citizen
All eyes on SA's First Citizen
Many South Africans are expected to be glued to their screens this evening, 18 July 2024, as they eagerly wait to hear from President Cyril Ramaphosa, when he delivers the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) at 7pm.
As South Africa struggles with rising fuel and food prices, youth unemployment, crime and corruption, amongst others, many citizens are seeking hope and will be looking to President Ramaphosa’s speech for much-needed optimism as he leads the country under the Government of National Unity (GNU) banner.
President Ramaphosa was re-elected for a second term last month at the first sitting of the National Assembly since the highly contested elections of 29 May.
He received 283 votes, while the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, Julius Malema, received 44 votes for the top job.
The Speaker of Parliament, Thoko Didiza, has described the OPA ceremony as a historic event and said that the opening of Parliament reaffirms the government’s commitment to constitutional democracy.
“It serves as a powerful symbol for our nation’s ability to overcome adversity and continue the important work of governance,” Didiza said at a media briefing on Thursday to outline Parliament's state of readiness for the big event today, expected to showcase all the colourful and elegantly put together ceremonial aspects, befitting the Opening of Parliament.
Key areas
Speaking to SAnews, University of South Africa (Unisa) political analyst, Professor Dirk Kotze, said he expected the President's speech to focus on the economy.
“The issues he emphasised in the past will continue; the economic recovery plan, I suspect will still be the basis of his focus and [the] employment matter - how to create employment.”
Kotze also believes that the President will address infrastructure matters, foreign investments, and issues regarding electricity and water.
“I think the matter that is an overarching issue is how to deal with the fiscal issue and how there’s a reduction of the budgets in all of the different departments and how to try to improve the fiscal situation as a whole,” he told SAnews.
According to Kotze, the President’s speech usually covers almost all the departments, and that people can expect the same from the OPA.
He will also reaffirm the government's commitment to the fundamental principles of multilateralism, non-partisanship, and democracy, said the analyst.
“He should also create an environment which will make the GNU attractive for South Africans and the international community. I don’t know how exactly he’s going to do it, but he will have to build trust in the new government.”
Kotze also suspects that President Ramaphosa will address the GNU, discussing what they have already agreed upon, how it should function, and how Cabinet should operate.
“I think that will be the important part of the speech,” he explained.
The road to OPA
The Opening of Parliament signifies the formal start of the parliamentary year and is usually marked by grandeur, ceremony, and glamorous fashion that sparks conversation.
However, it is more than just that; but a significant ceremony where the Head of State outlines the government’s agenda, priorities, and policies during a joint sitting of the newly constituted two Houses of Parliament to deliver the OPA of the seventh administration.
The OPA occurs once every five years, following the Provincial and National Elections. It outlines the new administration’s plans and the official opening of the new five-year term of Parliament.
The President presided over the first Cabinet lekgotla of the administration at Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Pretoria over the weekend, where Ministers, Deputy Ministers, and Premiers gathered to discuss the government’s agenda.
The OPA will also provide an opportunity to hear the direction government is taking under the GNU.
According to Parliament, the address serves as a unifying force for the whole nation to collaborate and continue the progress made by past governments.
“It draws us in a common front to find ways to address the challenges we face and improve the lives of people.”
Mandela Day
This year’s opening of Parliament coincides with the United Nations-declared Nelson Mandela International Day.
July 18 marks the birthday of the founding President of a democratic South Africa and is a global celebration. It is a day for personal and collective actions for good that honour the leader’s life and legacy.
The Presidency has since called on citizens and communities to take time to reflect on Mandela’s values and principles and to make a positive impact on communities globally.
The OPA will take place at the Cape Town City Hall.
South Africans can tune into their favourite television or radio station to be part of this national milestone.
Proceedings will also be covered via government and Parliament social media accounts. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 14:57
147 views
Creative Coffee Week brings one of the biggest names in global coffee to Durban!
The 7th annual edition of Creative Coffee Week (CCW) in partnership with FNB, held every July in Durban since 2018, is bringing one of the biggest names in Specialty Coffee to South Africa. The event is taking from 24-26th July 2024 at FNB’s Acacia House on Umhlanga Ridge. Patrik Rolf, from April Coffee in Denmark, …
Novus Holdings Invests in Bytefuse
Successful AI projects in education place bright spotlight on SA startup South Africa, 10 July: Novus Holdings has announced a R55m investment in Bytefuse, an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) company, to enhance its capabilities to deliver enterprise scale AI solutions. Having observed Bytefuse’s success in enhancing Maskew Miller Learning’s (MML) educational services through advanced AI solutions, …
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The Countdown to the 2024 Totalsports Women’s Race Begins
With just over three weeks until the start of the Totalsports Women’s Race celebrations in Women’s Month (August 4 in Durban, August 9 in Cape Town, and August 17 in Joburg), runners and walkers are reminded to secure their spot at the start line before entries run out. “The Totalsports Women’s Race is a mass …
Hero’s welcome for SA’s tennis star
Hero's welcome for SA's tennis star
A hero's welcome awaited South African wheelchair tennis champion Kgothatso Montjane as she beamingly made her arrival at OR Tambo International Airport, on Monday morning.
Excitement, loud cheers, the flashing lights of cameras and hearty clapping was the order of the winter morning as the sportswoman emerged into the terminal, after her splendid showing at Wimbledon over the weekend.
Montjane and her Japanese partner Yui Kamiji bagged their third Grand Slam title together on Sunday.
The number one seeds defeated Dutch duo, Diede De Groot and Jiske Griffioen 6-4, 6-4, to secure the Wimbledon Ladies' Wheelchair Doubles title in London, United Kingdom.
READ | President Ramaphosa congratulates tennis star Kgothatso Montjane
She told journalists that her victory has not sunk in yet, especially after the duo was named silver finalists last year.
“I’m still digesting it - but I’m sure it will sink in. This is just a great feeling,” she told journalists as she beamed from ear to ear.
According to the newly crowned champion, the matches are gruelling and require professionalism to play at this level.
“We try to fight as a team. We wanted to win this one considering our performance last year. After that match last year, we felt we needed to give it our best. We felt we lacked strategy. So, you can imagine how badly we wanted it.
“That’s why we needed to put our differences aside and put our heads together and fight together as a team.”
Montjane had her left leg amputated at age 12 due to a congenital disorder.
She described yesterday’s win as a confidence booster as she prepares for the Paralympic Games in August in Paris.
“I feel like I really needed this. I’ve been having ups and downs throughout the year and my ranking going through ups and downs, and not being sure where I am.
“This one really gives me a great feeling that I can go to the Games to deliver,” she said.
Montjane, who first picked up the racket at the age of 19, thanked her team for motivating her.
“I’m having so many blows and they’re the ones who try to keep me motivated so that I keep my head down and continue to work hard. I keep saying I’m winning the wrong Slam but it’s still a great achievement. The plan is still to win the Singles title.”
The 38-year-old believes that she is closer to winning the singles and that all she needs to do is to put her head down and keep working hard towards her goal.
In 2018, the athlete became the first black South African woman to compete at Wimbledon, and she reached the championships' singles and doubles finals for the first time.
“To the young ones, they must keep believing and working hard. Their dreams are valid and they must believe in the world of possibility. Their turn will come,” Montjane said.
Limpopo's MEC for Sport, Arts, and Culture, Jerry Maseko, was also present at the airport to welcome Montjane.
The MEC told SAnews that he and the provincial leadership were excited and proud of the athlete.
“The Premier and I were both excited. She directed me to come receive this jewel, this diamond from Limpopo, from a rural township of Seshego.”
READ | Tennis superstar Kgothatso Montjane inspires hope
Maseko took the time to express gratitude to the star for her dedication and the consistency she demonstrated from the grassroots to the professional level.
He also paid tribute to Montjane’s many sponsors and said he was rallying the private sector to construct a tennis court that will be named after the champ.
“It’s important to us to honour the living legend. We shouldn’t honour people when they have passed on. We must appreciate them while they’re still alive.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 14:44
246 views
Government activities for the week 15 – 19 July 2024
Government activities for the week 15 – 19 July 2024
On Monday, 15 July, President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address at the opening session of the National Treasury Climate Resilience Symposium 2024.
The symposium is being hosted by National Treasury, the Presidential Climate Commission, the World Bank and a range of partner organisations.
On Monday, 15 July, the Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, briefs media on the ministry’s priorities in the seventh administration at the GCIS head office in Pretoria.
On Tuesday, 16 July, the Climate Resilience Symposium 2024 – hosted by National Treasury, the Presidential Climate Commission, the World Bank and a range of organisations – continues.
On Tuesday, 16 July, the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson will deliver the keynote address at the 2024 Infrastructure Africa Business Forum at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.
On Wednesday, 17 July, the Climate Resilience Symposium 2024 – hosted by National Treasury, the Presidential Climate Commission, the World Bank and a range of organisations – concludes.
On Thursday, 18 July, President Cyril Ramaphosa will open Parliament in a joint sitting (official Opening of Parliament). 18 July also marks Nelson Mandela International Day in honour of South Africa’s first democratically elected President.
Matona
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 11:26
170 views