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[Pretoria, South Africa] – As we wrap VApril, a month dedicated to education and awareness about vaping, the Vapour Products Association of South Africa (VPASA) recommits itself to keeping the public informed about the ongoing process for South Africa’s Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill (the Tobacco Bill). Most recently, several public hearings …
Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health coverage, explores whether giving up alcohol can improve fertility. “The question of whether giving up alcohol can improve fertility is a topic of growing interest among individuals and couples hoping to conceive,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “While numerous factors influence fertility, lifestyle choices can …
Introduction Mammograms are an essential part of breast health, helping to detect breast cancer at an early, more treatable stage. Whether you’re looking for a mammogram clinic near me or want to understand the costs involved, this guide will provide all the necessary information. What is a Mammogram? A mammogram is an X-ray of …
President Ramaphosa reiterates government's commitment to service delivery
President Cyril Ramaphosa has assured citizens that government remains committed to delivering services and addressing their challenges.
The President was speaking during the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo held in Kuruman in the Northern Cape on Thursday.
The DDM Presidential Imbizo programme presents a platform for communities to lay out the challenges they face to the President, his Cabinet and provincial and local government.
VIEW | Scenes from the Northern Cape DDM Presidential Imbizo
“We don’t want you, our people, to lose hope. Government is working in a very focused manner to address the issue of education and health. We are focusing on various industries, industries that are important for your progress like mining and renewable energy.
“Those are some of the key industries that we are focusing on. We are also focusing on spreading the skills base. That is why training is going to happen here… The public employment programme is going to create more job opportunities.
“With that, we should be filled with hope and confidence that in the course of time, we will be addressing some of the issues that you have raised here,” he said.
During the imbizo, residents told of challenges, including a lack of access to water, educational and vocational training facilities for youth, housing challenges and crime related issues.
READ | Communities eager to see and listen to President Ramaphosa
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the imbizo, President Ramaphosa acknowledged that the challenges the residents face are enormous but vowed that government will address them.
“As an administration, we have sought to fulfil and address those needs and we will continue to do so. They were huge from 1994 and we have done a lot to address many of those needs. The needs of our people will continue but we will continue working very hard to address those needs.
“But what is good is that the people have the freedom and the opportunity to raise their concerns, and as they raise their concerns, we are much more encouraged to address those concerns. It’s important that we should get to hear how our people are living, and what they are experiencing.
“This is a great opportunity for us to do more and to do more together, with our people,” he said.
IMAGES | Northern Cape imbizo in pictures
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There have been at least 13 Presidential izimbizo held throughout the term of the sixth administration, touching tens of thousands of people who interacted with all three spheres of government.
The Northern Cape Presidential imbizo is expected to be the last to be held for this term.
READ | District Development Model Imbizo kicks off in the Northern Cape
“A lot of people were very enthusiastic to raise their views and raise questions. The engagement with the community I always find it very rich, very empowering as well. We have been able to follow up on a number of issues that have been raised at our izimbizo.
“In a way, we saved the best for last. This is the imbizo that really tops everything and closes off the sixth administration,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 17:04
South Africa’s great climate and beautiful natural resources support a vibrant running community, with trail and road running races popular countrywide. As the Comrades Marathon approaches on 9 June, many runners are preparing to compete in The Ultimate Human Race, and along with increasing endurance, foot care will need to be a priority. Kroko, manufacturers …
George building collapse: numbers revised
A total of 81 construction workers have been confirmed to have been on site at the time a building collapsed in George Municipality in the Western Cape on Monday.
The revised number was confirmed on Thursday following a previous report of 75 people having been reported to have been on site when the incident happened.
Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi visited the site of the collapsed building, where he interacted with the local and provincial government to get an update from rescuers and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) inspectors from the department, who were dispatched to the site.
Briefing media, Nxesi said the police are currently "in control” at this stage and will be allowed to do their own work unhindered until their investigation is complete.
“At some stage, once they are done with their work, the police will hand over to the Department of Employment and Labour, which will be able to start with its own investigation. Our investigations are informed by the Occupational Health and Safety Act, in particular Section 31 and 32, [which guides what] normally happens when we face such incidents,” Nxesi said.
Giving the different statutory roles played by different levels of government and departments, the Minister said it was agreed that all parties will play their roles collaboratively and in support of one another.
“Any interested parties who want to do their investigations will do them, but we will also do our own investigation and we will be informed by the police once they are done. At the end, once we get the investigation of the police and our investigations, in particular, we will be able to say what we are going to do,” Nxesi said.
He emphasised that the department did not want to speculate on what transpired but will leave everything to the investigations.
“Once the investigations have been able to expose the facts, we will talk to that.”
The Minister noted that a number of national department Ministers, including Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Human Settlements, Police and Social Development, also have interest in the matter.
“We will be following through our people on the ground on what is happening. We were also informed that the Department of International Relations and Cooperation also has an interest because we [will not] be able to communicate with some of the families, in terms of the languages.
“We need to talk to the various missions who are here in South Africa to send their people… so they can communicate properly with the families,” Nxesi said.
He noted that while the department has compensation to give, this can only be done once all the people have been identified.
He said there is no timeline for the investigation, as it will depend on what is uncovered during the investigation, and the police will hand over the site to the department.
The Minister further appealed to the employer of the construction workers or the construction owners to come forward and talk with the families of the workers.
“Thus far, in terms of what I’ve been briefed, we do not know where they are,” Nxesi said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 15:29
In our fast-paced world, convenience often trumps sustainability. One glaring example of this is the widespread use of disposable coffee cups. While these cups offer a convenient solution for our on-the-go caffeine fix, their impact on the environment is significant and concerning. In this article, we’ll delve into the environmental issues posed by disposable coffee …
Introduction Abortion clinics play a critical role in providing reproductive health services. This article offers an overview of the services provided by abortion clinics, explores access issues, and discusses the supportive environment these clinics strive to foster for individuals seeking their services. What is an Abortion Clinic? An abortion clinic specialises in …
Fabulous Woman Awards is thrilled to announce that nominations across all categories are now open, ready to honour agents of change making a difference in communities throughout South Africa. Celebrating its twelfth year, and themed Ethical Leadership, the annual Fabulous Woman Awards are back and will again shine the spotlight on outstanding women in the …
The sad history of Net1 and the Post Office shows that this is an important question
Government committed to resolve SA challenges
While government has made significant progress in improving the lives of its citizens in the past 30 years, President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged that for millions of South Africans, the promise of 1994 has not yet translated into a meaningful change.
“That is why we must, and we will, continue to work in earnest to resolve the challenges that are holding back our progress,” the President said on Wednesday in Pretoria.
Addressing the launch of the 30 Year Review Report, he said there is room for improvement in growing the economy, addressing unemployment, poverty, inequality and underdevelopment.
The 30 Year Review Report reflects on the work the country has collectively undertaken to build a democratic, prosperous and free South Africa.
“We continue our efforts to overcome the energy crisis, to implement structural reforms to boost economic growth, to drive programmes that create more employment, and to improve the capacity of the state to deliver services,” Ramaphosa said.
He said the democratic breakthrough of 1994 represented both a decisive break with a painful past and an opportunity for South Africa to chart a new course.
WATCH | Launch of the of the 30 Years of Democracy Review Report in Pretoria
Strides made
“South Africa is a vastly different place compared to what it was 30 years ago. Guided by our Constitution and its Bill of Rights, successive democratic administrations have implemented progressive policies and programmes to uplift the material condition of all South Africans, particularly society’s most vulnerable,” the President said.
These policies have included the provision of basic services, housing, education, health care and social support.
“We have established a unitary, democratic state and created institutions to uphold democracy and promote accountability.
“We have an independent judiciary, a robust civil society, a free media and a clear separation of powers between the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government.
“We have advanced transformative policies to change the racial and gender composition of the economy and the workplace. We have implemented laws to protect workers and advance their rights.”
Government has restored land to many who had been dispossessed and has provided emerging farmers with the means to productively use their land.
Challenges
“South Africa today is a valued member of the international fellowship of nations. We pursue a progressive foreign policy rooted in advancing the African Agenda, in social justice and solidarity, and in support of multilateralism. Yet we know that still much more needs to be done.
“We are contending with slow economic growth, high unemployment, poverty, inequality and underdevelopment. What is made clear by this Review Report is that the task of consolidating our democratic gains is not just the responsibility of the state. It is a responsibility that we all share.
“Just as we stood together to overcome COVID-19, just as we have united to confront other crises, we can overcome this period of difficulty in the life of our nation together,” the President said.
He said government was to create a better South Africa, a transformed South Africa, a South Africa that leaves no-one behind.
“The story of 30 years of democracy contained in this report is an honest and critical appraisal. It presents both light and shade, both progress and challenges. It is a vital reference for anyone who wants to understand the last 30 years and for everyone who wants to look into our future.
“It is our hope and expectation that this Review Report will be studied in detail and that its findings will be applied. This 30 Year Review Report is much more than a chronicle of a changing nation.
"As we chart the path ahead for our democracy, we will look to this Report as a valuable instrument for transformation, progress and growth. Let us make this a living document that inspires, encourages and guides us as we continue to build a democratic, prosperous and free South Africa,” the President said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 05/08/2024 - 13:55
Professor Brian Ganson is Head of the Centre on Conflict & Collaboration at Stellenbosch Business School, a hub for research and reflection on the private sector, conflict, and human security. We already know that whatever new governments emerge at local, provincial, and national levels due to voting on 29 May, they will face overwhelming challenges …
Introduction Dog supplements play a crucial role in maintaining the health and wellness of our canine companions. Just like humans, dogs have specific nutritional needs that sometimes are not fully met by their daily diet. This blog explores the various types of supplements available for different health issues and how they can benefit your dog. …
Mashatile meets with Rand Water leadership to address water challenges
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has stressed the significance of strategic engagement and collaboration in light of the water shortages affecting many municipalities, including those in Gauteng.
The Deputy President was addressing the leadership of Rand Water in his role as the Chairperson of the Water Task Team.
President Cyril Ramaphosa established a Water Task Team under the leadership of the Deputy President to address water challenges in various areas in the country.
Rand Water, according to the Presidency, is the largest bulk water utility in Africa and one of the largest in the world, providing bulk potable water to more than 11 million people in Gauteng, parts of Mpumalanga, Free State and the North West.
“In our efforts to avert a water crisis in Gauteng province and other municipalities around the nation, we must have strategic engagements and collaboration with the Rand Water leadership to urgently find solutions to this pressing issue,” said the Deputy President on Wednesday.
During the engagement, the country’s second-in-command also received an update on Rand Water’s efforts aimed at ensuring the efficient provision of water to Gauteng residents.
With a global reputation for providing high-quality water, its customer base includes metropolitan municipalities, local municipalities, mines and large industries in the province and surrounding areas.
The Deputy President commended efforts by Rand Water to ensure that millions of people have access to water constantly, as this has a significant impact on the wellbeing of the society as it relates to socio-economic factors such as health, food security and general welfare.
As part of his engagement, the Deputy President also visited the Rand Water Zuikerbosch Plant in Vereeniging.
The water purification plant at Zuikerbosch Station 5A was built to ensure a sustainable water supply and meet the current and future water demands.
The water purification plant, according to his Office, is part of the water utility’s capital expenditure projects and seeks to bring more capacity to the water utility system to ensure water security.
“I am eager to collaborate closely with the Rand Water leadership to identify a preventative measure against the impending water scarcity crisis.
“It is widely recognised that water is essential for sustaining life, and ensuring access to an adequate amount of water is a basic duty outlined in the Constitution, which states that ‘Everyone has the right to have access to sufficient food and water’,” said the Deputy President.
The Deputy President was supported by Police Minister Bheki Cele, Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo and Cooperative Governance Deputy Minister Parks Tau. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 05/08/2024 - 15:17
George tragedy: Call for organisations to prioritise safety in workplaces
Employment and Labour Minister, Thulas Nxesi, says the collapse of the building which was under construction in George is a sobering reminder of the critical importance of prioritising safety in the workplace.
“With the loss of lives and the entrapment of individuals, this incident has sparked a call to action for organisations to reevaluate their health and safety protocols and practices,” Nxesi said.
This comes after a multi-storey building under construction in Victoria Street, collapsed on Monday afternoon with 75 construction workers on the site at the time of the incident.
According to the latest statement issued by George Municipality on Wednesday morning, the number of patients admitted has increased to 36, with 39 people still unaccounted for. Seven people have been declared dead.
Nxesi said it is imperative to recommit to the principle that no job is worth risking the safety or lives of employees.
“Every effort must be made to prevent similar incidents in the future. Redoubling efforts to promote a culture of safety, vigilance, and accountability within organisations is paramount.
“It is a collective responsibility to honour the memory of those lost by ensuring that their lives were not lost in vain. Strengthening the commitment to health and safety is essential. Let us work together to prevent such tragedies from occurring again,” Nxesi said.
Nxesi conveyed his heartfelt condolences to family and friends of the deceased construction workers involved in the incident and wished the survivors a speedy recovery.
“No words can adequately express the sorrow felt for the lives lost and the anguish experienced by those awaiting news of their trapped loved ones. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time,” Nxesi said.
The Minister said the department is receiving real time information on the ground from the department’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) inspectors and inspector general, who were dispatched on site when the incident came to the department’s attention.
“We are also aware that multiple disaster service personnel, including SAPS search and rescue teams, with sniffer dogs are involved in a rescue operation to retrieve the trapped construction workers.
“A number of construction crew on site at the time of the incident and deceased workers have been reported, but at this stage we await final confirmations,” Nxesi said.
He added the department will work through the teams on the ground and outlined protocols to communicate and update the public.
“In terms of our processes, we will await the official handing over of the site to the department to enable us to proceed with investigations as per Section 31 and 32 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. The handing over is normally preceded by the finalisation of rescue and recovery interventions,” Nxesi said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 05/08/2024 - 10:01
In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, efficient management of medical practices is crucial for providing quality patient care while ensuring smooth administrative operations. The advent of technology has revolutionised the healthcare industry, offering innovative solutions to streamline various processes. Among these technological advancements, medical billing software, practice management software, EMR (Electronic Medical Records) software, and …
Programme to bridge gap between research, public policymaking
In a move aimed to enhance collaboration between academia and government, the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) have launched the pilot phase of its DSI-NRF Policy Placement Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme.
This initiative is designed to bridge the gap between research and public policymaking, thus addressing societal challenges through evidence-based approaches.
NRF Business Advancement Group Executive, Dr Thandi Mgwebi, said the pilot phase will focus on postdoctoral research fellows and emerging researchers at a postdoctoral level to provide them with a unique opportunity to work within government departments.
“Through close collaboration with key government stakeholders, fellows will engage in policy processes and activities aligned with the thematic areas outlined in the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Decadal Plan 2022-2032.
“These areas include energy, social sciences, agriculture, climate change adaptation and mitigation, health, and other relevant fields,” Mgwebi said.
The pilot phase has seen the appointment of 14 postdoctoral fellows who have been assigned to strategic divisions within the DSI and NRF.
“The DSI fellows will be placed at the Technology Innovation and Research Development and Support divisions, while the NRF fellows will be spread across Business Advancement, Research Analysis and Advice, Knowledge Advancement and Support divisions, as well as Research Chairs and Centres of Excellence,” Mgwebi said.
The fellows will support the human capital development and social grand challenges (HCD and SGCs) five policy focus areas including research impact; internationalisation and partnerships; technology and innovations; and open science.
The fellowship programme is expected to be scaled-up over the next few years, with an open call for postdoctoral researchers to apply for the programme in 2025 and beyond.
The role of research
Mgwebi also noted that in today's complex world, the role of research in shaping public policy cannot be overstated.
She said the DSI-NRF Policy Placement Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme recognises this imperative and seeks to empower outstanding researchers and academics to contribute directly to government institutions.
“This will allow the academics to play a pivotal role in informing policy-making processes. The NRF and DSI are committed to driving national development through research initiatives that have a tangible impact on society.
"Through the creation of opportunities for collaboration between academia and government, we aim to enhance the capacity of researchers in public policymaking, while at the same time ensure that investments towards research culminates into impactful policies,” Mgwebi said.
DSI Research Development and Support Deputy Director-General, Imraan Patel said the programme fills two especially important gaps, one in which they have PhD graduates who have a lot of insight and ways of thinking that can be used by the policy environment effectively, but which cannot be extracted.
“The other in the policy environment where we have the need for deep insight into what is happening, what does the available evidence tells us, etc. This postdoctoral policy fellowship brings together those two needs into what I think is going to be an exciting and innovative programme,” Patel said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 05/07/2024 - 11:48
But lawyer for acting CEO Terrence Magogodela says his client “expects to be a witness for the state”
Prize program awards Aftrak the $1 million Grand Prize to advance green energy in Africa; OMNIVAT awarded runner-up prize of $250,000; The organisations also launch a new FinTech Award in the next installation of the Prize program; winners will be selected in May 2025.
The Milken Institute (https://apo-opa.co/44yU0nF) and the Motsepe Foundation today announced the winners of the Milken-Motsepe Prize in Green Energy, a $2 million innovation competition to reward entrepreneurs working to expand access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable off-grid electricity in Africa. The winners were announced at the Milken Institute Global Conference in Los Angeles.
Aftrak (https://apo-opa.co/4bKg4OT), an initiative based out of the UK and Malawi, was awarded the $1 million Grand Prize for its easily assembled solar microgrid and custom-designed tractors, which have tripled agricultural yield, increased farmer incomes, and provided electricity to remote communities. The runner-up award of $250,000 was presented to South Africa-based OMNIVAT (www.OMNIVAT.Tech) for its containerized electricity generation and storage system, which provides clean water, clean energy, and Wi-Fi enriched by virtual reality support for remote communities.
The Milken-Motsepe Prize in Green Energy is the second in the Milken–Motsepe Innovation Prize Program, a series of multiyear, multimillion-dollar global innovation competitions and awards aimed at advancing technological progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The first competition in this program, the Milken–Motsepe Prize in AgriTech, was launched in 2021, and focused on addressing the goals of no poverty and achieving zero hunger.
Rigorous Judging Process
After launching in November 2022, hundreds of entrepreneurs from 79 countries on six continents registered to compete for the Milken-Motsepe Prize in Green Energy, and 160 of those submitted technological design and business models. In June 2023, an independent panel of expert judges carefully selected 20 semi-finalists to receive $20,000 to develop and test their innovations.
Each of the teams underwent a rigorous, independent judging process, which assessed their innovation's potential to deliver 60 kilowatt hours of off-grid electricity in a 24-hour period using only sustainable sources. Five teams were then chosen to advance to the Finalist Round. Each team received an additional $70,000 and showcased their innovations in a live demonstration in partnership with Stellenbosch University in South Africa.
“Meeting the teams and witnessing their work and determination to solve one of the biggest challenges facing Africa was truly inspiring,” said Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, co-founder and CEO of the Motsepe Foundation. “We congratulate the Green Energy winners and all the finalists. Your innovations show such promise, and we will be watching with pride as you bring your technologies to market.”
The third Milken-Motsepe Prize, focused on FinTech, launched at the 2024 Milken Institute Global Conference. The prize will award companies that demonstrate the use of cutting-edge technologies to expand access to capital and financial services for small businesses in emerging and frontier markets.
The Milken-Motsepe Prize in FinTech offers $2 million in prizes, with a $1 million Grand Prize for the winning company. Registration is open until August 6.
The transformative potential of FinTech lies in its capacity to empower individuals to start and grow a business, even in the most remote communities. By lowering transaction costs, streamlining processes, and expanding access to capital and financial services, FinTech can enable aspiring entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into reality. The Milken-Motsepe Prize in FinTech is designed to leverage the potential of FinTech solutions to break down barriers to financial inclusion and contribute to the achievement of key SDGs, including alleviating poverty (SDG 1), promoting human well-being (SDGs 3 and 4), achieving gender equality (SDG 5), and fostering viable economic opportunities for young people (SDGs 8 and 9).
Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Impact
“The impact of Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prizes goes well beyond the financial awards,” said Dr. Emily Musil Church, senior director, environmental and social innovation at the Milken Institute. “This is a global community of entrepreneurs who believe in imagining and building a better, more abundant, and sustainable world. Our role is to identify and support these bold entrepreneurs and to help accelerate their success.”
The Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Program is a program of MI Philanthropy (https://apo-opa.co/3JSwhFM), which aims to influence the deployment of philanthropic capital to create a better world. MI Philanthropy's work includes the Science Philanthropy Accelerator for Research and Collaboration (SPARC), which has, to date, influenced more than $2 billion in medical research funding.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Program.
For more information about the winners and the Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Program, visit https://MilkenMotsepePrize.org/.
Notes to Editors:
For further information or to request interviews with the winners, please send requests or queries to the media contact below.
Media Contact:
Ima Peter
+27 11 268 6388
ima.peter@razorpr.co.za
About the Milken Institute:
The Milken Institute is a non-profit, nonpartisan think tank focused on accelerating measurable progress on the path to a meaningful life. With a focus on financial, physical, mental, and environmental health, we bring together the best ideas and innovative resourcing to develop blueprints for tackling some of our most critical global issues through the lens of what's pressing now and what's coming next. For more information, visit https://MilkenInstitute.org.
About the Motsepe Foundation:
The Motsepe Foundation was founded in 1999 by Dr. Patrice Motsepe and his wife, Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe. The goal of the Motsepe Foundation is to contribute towards eradicating poverty and to sustainably improve the living conditions and standards of living of poor, unemployed and marginalised people in South Africa, Africa, and the world. In January 2013, Dr. Patrice Motsepe and Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe joined the Giving Pledge, which was started by Warren Buffet and Bill and Melinda Gates. Dr. Patrice Motsepe and his wife committed to give half of their wealth to the poor and for philanthropic purposes during their lifetime and beyond.
One of the most enduring misconceptions about PET, the recyclable and food-grade plastic most often used for beverage bottles, is that it pollutes our environment. As a result, many are pushing consumers to switch to reusable/re-fillable bottles but few are asking the important question: Do reusable bottles trump beverages originally packed and sold in PET …
The Cannabis for Private Purposes Bill is awaiting the President’s signature to become law
High-risk people encouraged to get flu vaccination
As South Africa enters the winter season, Gauteng Health and Wellness MEC, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, has encouraged the public, especially people at high risk of severe influenza, to visit their nearest public clinics or healthcare providers to get the flu vaccination.
Nkomo-Ralehoko urged people, especially those at high risk such as adults aged 65 years and older, people with underlying illness such as heart and lung disease, people living with HIV and tuberculosis, as well as pregnant people, to visit their nearest public clinics or healthcare providers to get the flu jab.
“Getting vaccinated is a safe and effective way to protect yourself and those around you from influenza,” Nkomo-Ralehoko said.
The MEC made the call on Sunday, as the department joined the global community in observing World Hand Hygiene Day to raise awareness about the importance of hand hygiene in preventing the spread of diseases.
World Hand Hygiene Day is observed annually on 5 May to improve hand hygiene standards at home and the workplace - thereby protecting health and care workers, as well as communities from infections and curbing the spread of harmful germs.
The 2024 World Hand Hygiene Day was observed under the theme: “Promoting knowledge and capacity building of health and care workers through innovative and impactful training and education, on infection prevention and control, including hand hygiene”.
Nkomo-Ralehoko emphasised the importance of hand hygiene to stop the spread of respiratory infections.
“It is critical that health and care workers and the public at large make hand hygiene a non-negotiable routine in their daily lives as a simple, yet powerful tool to safeguard their wellbeing. Through advocacy and education, we can foster these good habits that help prevent the spread of diseases,” Nkomo-Ralehoko said.
Nkomo-Ralehoko noted that hand hygiene has proven effective as a preventive measure during the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent Cholera outbreak.
“Hands should be washed with a soap or alcohol-based sanitiser for a at least 20 seconds, covering all surfaces of the hands, including the palms, back of hands, between fingers, back of fingers, thumbs, fingertips, and wrists.
“As we enter the winter months - which often sees an increase in cases of flu infections - the message around hand hygiene is even more urgent as a proactive measure to protect ourselves and loved ones and stop the spread of respiratory infections such as influenza,” Nkomo-Ralehoko said.
In an effort to raise awareness, the department’s health facilities will from 5 to 10 May 2024, embark on a handwashing campaign targeting healthcare workers, patients, and the public about the significance of hand hygiene. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 05/06/2024 - 10:54
The African Union Commission (AUC) has officially invited the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to take advantage of the hosting rights benefits of the next 2 editions of the prestigious annual All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA (www.AFRIMA.org).
In a letter bearing reference number HHS/CUL/16/170.23 and signed by the AUC's Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development, Her Excellency, Ambassador Minata Samate Cessouma, the AU said the call aligns with its policies for the strategic transformation of Africa through social integration, as outlined in AU Agenda 2063, the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance, and the AU Plan for Action on Cultural and Creative Industry.
The AU describes AFRIMA as a global platform for celebrating and developing Africa's diverse musical talents and cultural heritage, highlighting the significant opportunities hosting the prestigious awards presents for the selected host country.
"Since 2014, the African Union has been partnering and working successfully with AFRIMA to develop, celebrate and promote African music globally for the purpose of integration/inclusivity, economic prosperity and world peace via its seven core pillars: (1) Music Awards, (2) Music Festivals; (3) AFRIMA creative Academy; (4) Talent Discovery and Promotions; (5) Music Business Hub; (6) Advocacy; (7) Advisory and Policy Debates," the letter reads.
"AFRIMA is the biggest and longest running music award and platform in Africa, with a huge global appeal, diaspora audience, and youthful fans. The main event events of AFRIMA are usually broadcast live to over 84 countries around the world after a continental and global road show, with thousands of music artists, actors, celebrities, members of the diplomatic corps, professionals in the creative space, tourists, media and fans from all over the world converging on the host country."
A letter received by the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, on behalf of the Nigerian government, a copy of which was seen by our correspondent, reads, "Nigeria, as a beacon in African music with huge young population, should it accept to host AFRIMA, stands a promising chance in elevating the country's positive global presence, bolstering artistic, tourism and economic growth, fostering cultural exchange and job creation, and reinforcing a positive perception of our continent's rich cultural heritage on a global scale."
The successful last edition of AFRIMA was hosted and partnered by the government of the Republic of Senegal in the city of Dakar. The hosting rights of AFRIMA are usually bestowed on a country that shows capacity and commitment to meet up with the requirement and conditions.
The Acting Director for Social Development, Culture, and Sports Division, African Union Commission, Ms. Angela Martins confirmed the invitation and request to bid for the hosting rights extended to the two countries.
She said that AFRIMA provides a unique opportunity for the host country to showcase its rich cultural heritage, develop her music sector, promote tourism, and stimulate economic growth.
"This call to action comes as part of the AU's commitment to promoting cultural exchange, unity, and economic development across the African continent. We urge the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to seize this opportunity to strengthen intra-African collaboration (in line with AFCTA) within the music industry and enhance their international visibility positively.
"AFRIMA serves as a premier platform for African artists in Africa and diaspora to showcase their talent, gain international exposure, and connect with audiences worldwide," she said.
She added that as the bidding process is itching towards its deadline, the African Union remains committed to providing support and guidance to ensure a successful hosting of AFRIMA.
She also reiterated the AUC's readiness to work closely with the selected host country to maximize the impact of the event on the African music industry, tourism, general economy growth, and socio-cultural landscape.
Signed,
Adejuwon OSUNNUYI
Communications Officer
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).
South Africa’s LGBTQ+ Community diversity is capably represented, amongst many others, by: Dr. Francois Venter (a leading HIV expert and pioneer in life-saving treatments), Somizi Mhlongo (the beloved TV personality, dancing his way into our hearts), former Constitutional Court Judge Edwin Cameron (an advocate for equality), and professor Sizwe Mabizela (Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor and champion …