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US forges ahead to build stronger relations with Africa under AGOA

Location: News

US forges ahead to build stronger relations with Africa under AGOA

Amid challenging global economic circumstances, United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai believes there is an opportunity to shape a stronger, new and forward-looking vision for United States-Africa trade, where more segments of society are brought in.

"[A vision] where, as President [Joe] Biden would say, ‘the benefits are realised from the bottom up and the middle out,” Tai told delegates on Friday.

In the words of Tai, the United States remains a committed partner as Africa continues this journey.

Tai was speaking at the three-day African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum currently underway at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg.

“As President Biden said at the US-Africa Leaders' Summit last December, ‘the United States is all in on Africa’.” 

African Continental Free Trade Area

Tai, who is the principal trade advisor and spokesperson on United States trade policy, announced that her country backs the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) under the US-AfCFTA Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation for Trade and Investment. 

This comes after the AfCFTA Secretary General, Wamkele Mene, and Tai signed the MoU during the summit.

“We created four Technical Working Groups, and the US government is providing approximately $160 million to support the negotiation and implementation of the AfCFTA,” Tai said. 

This includes support from the United States Agency for International Development, the US Department of Agriculture, and Prosper Africa.

“The United States is here to build and enhance our relationships so that more Africans can enjoy the benefits of economic growth, to empower workers and their communities, and to build fair and equitable societies, not just for today, but for years to come,” Tai said.

She has since called on all stakeholders to work together to further unlock the potential of the partnership to pursue sustainable and equitable growth, especially for women, youth and the African diaspora.

The representative said she was looking to talk about improving utilisation rates, exploring additional trade tools to complement the AGOA relationship, implementing the AfCFTA, and better use of the multilateral trading system for the benefit of underserved groups. 

“All of you in this room play such an important part in fully realising this vision. No one government can get there alone, and that is the power of this forum. A committed and thoughtful community with a common goal of strengthening our US-African trade and investment relationship.”

Tai described AGOA as a vehicle for workers and businesses across Africa.

“This is important, as all of us continue our economic recovery from the COVID pandemic.”

She also shifted her focus to challenges following the pandemic that battered economies, climate crisis, growing inequality and economic insecurity.

“But there have also been positive developments,” Tai said.

The green shoots, she said include trading under the AfCFTA since January 2021 and African Union joining G20 in September this year. 

Tai cited the African Development Bank’s report that stated that five of the world’s 10 fastest-growing economies are projected to be in Africa.

She singled out South Africa, which is ranked one of the largest AGOA users, with the country being the top exporter in 2022, with $3.6 billion in exports. 

“South Africa is leading the continent on other aspects as well, including through its clear commitment to human rights.”

She noted that the total goods imported into the United States under AGOA was about $10 billion in 2022, a significant increase compared to $6.8 billion in 2021.

Meanwhile, the non-petroleum imports –  major sources of new investment and jobs in Africa, went up to $5.7 billion in 2022, from $5 billion in 2021.

“The programme has fostered economic growth and development on the continent to increase investment and to create new jobs and opportunities,” Tai said.  – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 14:27

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AGOA an opportunity to elevate labour standards and social justice issues

Location: News

AGOA an opportunity to elevate labour standards and social justice issues

The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum creates a significant opportunity to elevate issues associated with labour standards and social justice.

This is according to Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi who delivered opening remarks at the Organised Labour and Civil Society AGOA Forum on Thursday. 

“We exist within complex social and economic environments that are ever changing. But our goals should be to achieve social justice and decent work for all people through a focus on decreasing unpaid labour, increasing social protection, doing away with employment discrimination, increasing wages, and improving job security. 

“Through these efforts we could contribute significantly to raising the standard of living within our communities,” he said. 

The Africa Growth and Opportunity Act is a unilateral trade preference scheme that provides qualifying Sub-Saharan African countries with duty-free, quota-free access into the United States market. AGOA remains the cornerstone of the USA’s commercial relations with Sub-Saharan Africa.

The Minister highlighted that an important component of the AGOA built into the AGOA Act are issues of labour, employment and human rights.

He said that each AGOA Forum has had a Civil Society Forum on the fringes which has included organised labour and civil society organisations from AGOA eligible countries.

 However, the Organised Labour and Civil Society Forum being hosted in South Africa marks the first time that organised labour is elevated as a separate sector.

“From a South African perspective we see this as a significant step to elevate some key issues in relation to employment, labour rights and trade matters,” the Minister said. 

Nxesi said Africa has a youthful workforce and this creates a significant opportunity for the development of the continent.

“To be able to leverage this immense potential it is becoming increasingly important to consider the forces at play in shaping the future of work globally and on the continent.  

“The digital transformation and technological advancements in and across sectors create immense opportunities for greater diversification within sectors of the economy however, they also pose challenges to our labour and social fabric.

“Therefore, as we grapple with the integration and mainstreaming of these forces into our communities we should not lose sight of the importance of respecting, promoting and realising fundamental principles and rights at work,” he said.

Guided by international labour standards, the Minister said stakeholders should seek to create resilient, sustainable and inclusive communities with greater levels of equity that lead to the improvement of living standards.

Nxesi said the question that needs to be asked is: “How do we best utilise the opportunities which come with AGOA to expand trade and investment – but in such a way that we create employment, thus improving the conditions of our people – whilst also strengthening human and labour rights?” – SAnews.gov.za 

 

DikelediM
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 09:13

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Partnerships are key to decarbonizing the South African economy.

Location: MyPR

The “energy trilemma” of delivering lower carbon energy that is affordable and secure is an issue facing all businesses and policymakers in the energy space. We believe that the world’s leading energy companies meaningfully want to achieve all three priorities. In January 2023, the New York Times reported that 2022 was the fifth-hottest year on …

Read morePartnerships are key to decarbonizing the South African economy.

Authorities must take immediate steps to protect persons with albinism against discrimination and advocacy of hatred constituting incitement

Location: News

Amnesty International
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Ahead of the court appearance tomorrow of South African traditional healer Bongolethu “Dr Khehlelezi” Mzozo, over a video shared on YouTube in April 2023 spreading misinformation about persons with albinism, Amnesty International and the National Albinism Task Force are calling on the South African government to protect persons with albinism in the country against discrimination, hostility and violence.

Following the release of the video, in line with Section 20 of the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act 2000 (PEPUDA) (No 4, 2000), the Thembisilemadlala Albinism Foundation supported by The National Albinism Task Force lodged a case with the Equality Court against Khehlelezi, arguing that the video was discriminatory and amounts to “hate speech” against persons with albinism.

Amnesty International's Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah said;

“Persons with albinism are no different from anyone else. They have the right to enjoy all human rights, including the right to be free from discrimination and protected against advocacy of hatred. It is deeply concerning that those with influence in society continue to marginalise and discriminate against persons with albinism. Perpetuating hate and discrimination puts them at serious risk of being harmed.

“The National Albinism Task Force in South Africa and Amnesty International call on the South African government to take immediate steps to respect, promote, and fulfil all the rights of persons with albinism and ensure that all those who violate such rights are held to account. The government must take measures to eradicate discrimination and counter misinformation and stereotypes about persons with albinism.

Chairperson of the National Albinism Task Force in South Africa Patrick Wadula said;

“We call on everyone in South Africa to stand in solidarity with people with albinism by condemning and reporting any behaviour that amounts to advocacy of hatred that constitutes incitement to discriminate against persons with albinism.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Amnesty International.

Read moreAuthorities must take immediate steps to protect persons with albinism against discrimination and advocacy of hatred constituting incitement

New State-of-the-art Primary Healthcare Clinic to Meet Growing Health Demands in Botleng Extension 6

Location: News
GE

As part of GE Vernova's (https://www.GEVernova.com/) commitment to support communities in areas it operates in, GE Vernova's Steam Power business, is proud to announce the handover of the Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre, a first-of-its-kind primary healthcare facility in Delmas, Mpumalanga, South Africa. The clinic was officially handed over to the Mpumalanga Department of Health and marked by an official opening ceremony in Nkangala District of Victor Khanye Local Municipality.

The Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre represents an approximated R75 million investment towards the turnkey construction and full equipment kitting of the clinic in efforts to uplift the local healthcare infrastructure. The clinic will play a critical role in meeting the growing healthcare demands of the community and its surrounding areas. Up to 100 000 local beneficiaries will have access to comprehensive primary healthcare services including 24-hour emergency care, maternity, dentistry, eyecare, medical dispensary, and mental healthcare services.

While Botleng Extension 6, part of a rapidly growing settlement in Victor Khanye Local Municipality was being serviced by a mobile clinic with restricted services that visits the area twice a week, the new clinic will alleviate the community's burden of travelling great distances to access quality healthcare services. The state-of-the-art facility boasts of a cutting-edge maternity ward equipped with premium GE Healthcare ultrasound/V-scan equipment, ensuring precision healthcare for expectant mothers and their babies. In addition to this, GE Healthcare will roll-out technical, clinical, and soft skills training programmes for nurses and midwives at the clinic, enhancing the quality of healthcare services.

Premier of Mpumalanga, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane expressed the provincial government's gratitude for this significant contribution to the healthcare infrastructure in the region. "This facility will be heralded and safeguarded by generations to come. Not only has it exceeded our standard infrastructural requirements but should be used as a benchmark for public service and infrastructural excellence," Mtshweni-Tsipane stated. "Thank you for leading by example and being a prime example of how private public partnerships can significantly aid our efforts and serve as catalysts for sustainable employment opportunity creation in our communities."

In line with its continuous strategy to empower local businesses, GE Vernova's Steam Power business supported local businesses and communities throughout the construction process where GVK-Siyazama Construction served as the principal contractor, overseeing construction activities. A minimum of 30% of the work was sub-contracted to local Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), and the general workforce was sourced entirely from the local community and empowered through accredited trade and skills development trainings. It was critical for the clinic's design approach to incorporate ecologically conscious solutions like rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient fittings and low maintenance landscaping throughout the construction process.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Emmanuel Thouet, GE Vernova's Steam Power SSA Regional Leader, expressed the company's commitment to driving social change through public-private partnerships. " Over the years, large infrastructure projects have provided us opportunities to create jobs and develop the critical skills needed to drive continuous growth in the energy sector. We recognize that for us to make a sustainable impact, we must be deliberate in our efforts to support social change," he stated. "Through our expertise and innovation, we are able to address social challenges by creating shared value. We are proud to be part of this transformative project that will significantly improve the social and economic vitality of the Botleng Extension 6 community."

Zandile Shange, Eskom General Manager for Kusile Power Plant Project, expressed her enthusiasm for the community-centric partnership Eskom enjoys with GE Vernova's Steam Power business in delivering this essential healthcare facility. " Health and wellness are fundamental human rights for all South Africans," Shange said. "The Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre represents a crucial step in providing accessible healthcare services to the people of this region. We are proud to be part of this initiative, which aligns with our mission to support the well-being of our communities and in accordance with one of our core values, ‘Sinobuntu'."

The Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between industry leaders, government agencies, and the community to address critical healthcare needs and uplift local communities.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GE.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Kashumba Macombe
Middle East & Africa Content Creation & Communications Specialist
GE Vernova
+27 71 372 3110
Kashumba.Macombe@ge.com

About GE Vernova:
GE Vernova is a planned, purpose-built global energy company that includes Power, Wind, and Electrification segments and is supported by its accelerator businesses of Advanced Research, Consulting Services, and Financial Services. Building on over 130 years of experience tackling the world's challenges, GE Vernova is uniquely positioned to help lead the energy transition by continuing to electrify the world while simultaneously working to decarbonize it. GE Vernova helps customers power economies and deliver electricity that is vital to health, safety, security, and improved quality of life. GE Vernova is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S., with more than 80,000 employees across 140+ countries around the world. GE Vernova's Steam Power business provides a broad portfolio of technologies and services that help industrial and non-renewable energy power plants deliver reliable power as they transition to a lower carbon future.

GE Vernova's mission is embedded in its name –it retains its legacy, “GE,” as an enduring and hard-earned badge of quality and ingenuity. “Ver” / “verde” signal Earth's verdant and lush ecosystems. “Nova,” from the Latin “novus,” nods to a new, innovative era of lower carbon energy. Supported by the Company Purpose,The Energy to Change the World, GE Vernova will help deliver a more affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy future. Learn more: GE Vernova (https://www.GEVernova.com/) and LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.info/3Qc09j6).

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President calls for UN to lead negotiations to resolve Israeli-Palestinian conflict

Location: News

President calls for UN to lead negotiations to resolve Israeli-Palestinian conflict

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a United Nations-led negotiation process towards resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

“The international community has a responsibility and a duty to support peace, and to create favourable conditions for negotiation and dialogue,” the President said on Saturday.

He made these remarks at the Cairo Summit for Peace, which discussed the ongoing escalation of the conflict in Israel and the Gaza Strip, and the urgent need for humanitarian support.

“As South Africa, we hold the firm view that the attack on civilians in Israel, the ongoing siege of Gaza and the decision to forcibly move the people of Gaza, together with the indiscriminate use of force through bombing, are violations of international law. More than that, these acts are an affront to our common humanity.

“We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the release of hostages, the lifting of the siege of Gaza, the opening of humanitarian corridors and the urgent provision of humanitarian aid on the required scale to the people of Gaza,” President Ramaphosa said.

The international community, the President said, has a responsibility and duty to support peace and create favourable conditions for negotiation and dialogue.

“As South Africans, we can relate to what is happening to Palestinians. Our people waged a brave and courageous struggle to achieve their freedom and were subjected to untold suffering just like the Palestinians are going through.

“The nightmare of apartheid was only brought to an end by the relentless struggle of our people and the courage and foresight of leaders, who put aside their differences and sought peace rather than revenge.

“We believe that peace is the only option to bring about peace between Israel and Palestine. To achieve this, steps must be taken now. We therefore call on all parties to exercise restraint and on all state actors to desist from providing weapons to either of the sides to the conflict,” the President said.

He expressed concern that the response of the Israeli government to the attack on its citizens will further deepen a conflict that has engulfed the region for many decades, and will make the attainment of a just and lasting peace even more difficult.

“We are also concerned that this conflict can spread to include other countries in the region. This must be avoided at all costs. The only way to bring about peace is the fulfilment of the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people to human rights, dignity and statehood.

“This is in line with the decisions that have been taken by the United Nations that guarantees statehood for both Israel and Palestine based on the 1967 borders. Only through a negotiated settlement, supported by the international community, can the people of Israel achieve the security they seek and the people of Palestine realise the freedom they deserve,” President Ramaphosa said.

He encouraged the international community to call for a ceasefire, find a sustainable solution to the conflict and stand on the side of peace, justice and human rights for all. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 10/22/2023 - 10:58

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Read morePresident calls for UN to lead negotiations to resolve Israeli-Palestinian conflict

President Ramaphosa calls for international peace

Location: News

President Ramaphosa calls for international peace

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated the South African government’s calls for an immediate end to “hostilities” not only between Israel and Palestine but also in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The President was speaking during Official Talks with the Kingdom of Netherlands King Willem-Alexander on the occasion of that country’s State Visit.

“We are meeting at a time when our resolve to build a peaceful, equal future is being sorely tested, and where reconciliation and healing is most sorely needed.

“The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the devastating events unfolding in Israel and Palestine have left many of us saddened. They have left us fearful for the future of international cooperation and for our common aspiration to realise a world free of conflict.

“As South Africa we have reiterated that there should be an immediate cessation of hostilities between the warring parties, that the tenets of international law should be upheld, and that the international community has a responsibility to help bring about favourable conditions for negotiation and dialogue,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said South Africa’s painful history and now democratic present is proof that peace – in a time of great conflict – can be achieved.

“As a country that chose the path of reconciliation over conflict, and peace over war, we believe it is indeed possible for adversaries, even those that share bitter histories, to come together for the sake of peace. We believe change can never come too late, and that it is indeed possible.

“The relationship between our two countries is testament to this. The Netherlands is a former colonial power but is now supporting development and economic growth across the developing world, including in former Dutch colonies,” the President said.

Bilateral relations

President Ramaphosa praised the relationship between South Africa and the Netherlands – highlighting in particular the Netherlands’ place as a major investor into the country.

South Africa, in turn, is a leading destination for tourists from the European country.

The President said this relationship is one from which South Africa derives “great benefit”.

“Our bilateral relationship spans agriculture, education and skills development, transport and logistics, science and innovation, water management and a number of other areas.

“Our energy cooperation is increasing, notably in the fields of green hydrogen and renewable energy,” he said.

The President said South Africa looks forward to “expanding the horizons of this relationship well into the future”.

“Ours is a strategic partnership and we can be proud of it. It has evolved, matured and I see it growing exponentially in the next coming years. May our shared values and common commitment to development guide us as we write what I would believe is a new history and a new chapter in our relations,” he said.

Historical ties

President Ramaphosa reflected on the history between the two countries which began with the arrival of Dutch settlers in the Cape in 1652.

He said traces of Dutch culture can still be found in South African society.

“More than 200 years since the Dutch ceded sovereignty of the Cape, there are a number of Dutch influences that still play an important part in the cultural and linguistic life of many South African communities.

“The Afrikaans language has much of its origins in Dutch and is the third most widely spoken national language of South Africa. Our country’s Muslim community can trace its origins to the arrival in 1658 of free labourers and political exiles from the-then Dutch East Indies. There are distinct Dutch influences in the cuisine and customs of our country,” he said.

The President emphasised that despite this colonial past, the strong bilateral relations between the two countries “reflect a commitment to acknowledge and confront the injustices of our past”.

“We are determined to forge a new path for our respective countries based on shared values, and a common commitment to human rights, equality, development and prosperity for all.

“We are determined to build the bridges of tolerance and understanding in pursuit of a better future and better world.

“In this regard, Your Majesty, I wish to acknowledge the apology that you have made for your country’s role in the slave trade, including in South Africa. This was an important step towards promoting reconciliation, restoration and healing old wounds,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 10/19/2023 - 12:30

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Lamola calls for conclude to violence in Israel-Palestine

Location: News

Lamola calls for end to violence in Israel-Palestine

Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola, has called for the urgent cessation of violence in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Lamola was addressing the 61st annual meeting of the Asian African Legal Consultative Organisation (AALCO) in Bali.

The most recent uptick in violence has been ongoing for about 10 days and follows a long standing conflict whose origins can be traced to the proclamation of the State of Israel in 1948.

“At the outset, we wish to express our condolences to all victims of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The atrocities committed against civilian populations are causing great concern, and we urgently call for an immediate cessation of violence from all parties involved.

“Our primary concern is the urgent humanitarian assistance those affected require, and we implore that all basic life-supporting necessities be provided to alleviate their suffering,” he said.

Lamola warned that delays in resolving the deadly conflict have “led to an unending cycle of unspeakable atrocities and human rights violations”.

SA's foreign policy

Lamola told the meeting that “supporting Palestinian nationhood” has been a part of government’s foreign policy since the dawn of democracy.

“South Africa’s foreign policy aims to promote a viable and sustainable peace plan for the Middle East, wherein Palestine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic viability are secured, and there is sovereign equality between Palestine and Israel.

“As a matter of international law, the principle of self-determination for the Palestinian people is widely recognised and enshrined in various international covenants, instruments, and the United Nations Charter.

“South Africa’s policy position on the Israeli-Palestine conflict aligns with the Oslo Accords, the Roadmap, and the Arab Plan 2002, recognising the two-State option as the only viable solution,” he said.

The Minister called on members of AALCO to work together to find a “permanent solution to the conflict, in accordance with relevant United Nations resolutions, international law, and internationally agreed parameters”.

“As global citizens, we envision a world where every nation adheres to international law and collaborates to promote peaceful coexistence. Achieving this noble goal requires collective effort from all of us.

“As members of the international community, we have a responsibility to take action whenever we observe any violations of international law or impediments to peace. However, we cannot attain this objective alone. We must work in unison and extend support to each other,” Lamola said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 10/17/2023 - 10:45

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Pandor clarifies content of her discussion with Hamas leader

Location: News

Pandor clarifies content of her discussion with Hamas leader

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) confirmed on Tuesday that Minister Naledi Pandor received a request to call the Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh to discuss getting humanitarian aid to Palestine. 

“During the call, and in line with the government's position, Minister Pandor reiterated South Africa’s solidarity and support for the people of Palestine and expressed sadness and regret for the loss of innocent lives, both Palestinians and Israelis. 

“Minister Pandor and the Hamas leader discussed how to get the necessary humanitarian aid to Gaza and other parts of the Palestinian territories,” the statement read. 

However, according to the department, reports that Pandor also offered support for the ‘Battle of Al-Aqsa Flood’ are untrue and meant to “impugn” the Minister and the South African government. 

“Minister Pandor’s call with the Hamas leader is in line with South Africa's readiness to engage all interlocutors as part of facilitating dialogue to end the ongoing conflict. South Africa, therefore, calls on all sides to seize the opportunity for peace as opposed to violence, and for the international community to actively advocate for the implementation of its own international resolutions and establish a credible peace process.” 

Meanwhile, according to the department, South Africa stands ready to share its experience in mediation and conflict resolution as it has done on the continent and around the world. 

According to the latest reports, about 2 808 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli air raids, while Israelis killed in Hamas’s attack and military operation stands at about 1 400, including 286 soldiers.

President Cyril Ramaphosa used his weekly newsletter on Monday to call for an immediate cessation of acts of war between Israel and Palestine, the opening of humanitarian corridors and a United Nations-led negotiation process towards resolving the conflict.

President Ramaphosa said this must lead to a just and lasting peace that satisfies the human rights, dignity and aspirations of all the people on both sides of this conflict.

The President noted that South Africans, like many across the globe, have watched with great anguish and pain the devastating violence and destruction in Israel and Gaza since Saturday last week.
 
“It has never been our nature as South Africans to reserve our empathy only for those with whom we share an ethnic, racial, religious or cultural affinity.

“As South Africans, we have made it part of our national DNA to stand firm against all forms of prejudice, including racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia and xenophobia. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of both Palestine and Israel as they go through these difficult times,” the President said.

He said he hoped that the Israeli and Palestinian people come together, reconcile and choose the path of a just peace. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Tue, 10/17/2023 - 13:55

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Read morePandor clarifies content of her discussion with Hamas leader

President Ramaphosa calls for cessation of acts of war in Israel and Palestine conflict

Location: News

President Ramaphosa calls for cessation of acts of war in Israel and Palestine conflict

President Cyril Ramaphosa has used his weekly newsletter to call for an immediate cessation of acts of war between Israel and Palestine, the opening of humanitarian corridors and a UN-led negotiation process towards resolving the conflict.

President Ramaphosa said this must lead to a just and lasting peace that satisfies the human rights, dignity and aspirations of all the people on both sides of this conflict.

The President highlighted that like many people around the world, South Africans have watched with great anguish and pain the devastating violence and destruction in Israel and Gaza since Saturday last week.
 
“It has never been our nature as South Africans to reserve our empathy only for those with whom we share an ethnic, racial, religious or cultural affinity.

“As South Africans, we have made it part of our national DNA to stand firm against all forms of prejudice, including racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia and xenophobia. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of both Palestine and Israel as they go through these difficult times,” the President said. 

The President bemoaned the harrowing deaths of Israeli and Palestinian civilians during this conflict. 

“It has been traumatic to see the images of civilians killed, wounded and captured; of destroyed homes, and of entire neighbourhoods flattened by bombardment. The atrocities that we have witnessed since last week Saturday are the latest chapter in a painful history of suffering, oppression, occupation and conflict going back more than 75 years.
 
“The harrowing deaths of Israeli and Palestinian civilians is a shock to our collective humanity. While international law recognises the right of oppressed people who defend themselves to use arms as a means of struggle and defence, that right must be exercised within the bounds of the Geneva Conventions,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa said the images of the killing of civilians in Israel by Hamas just over a week ago and the ongoing killing of civilians in Gaza by Israeli forces goes against the tenets of international law, which prohibits the targeting of non-combatants, especially women, the aged and children.
 
He expressed the country’s sadness and condolences to all those who are going through the most difficult time with their families.

 
“As South Africans, we are particularly filled with deep sorrow, as some who have died are South African citizens caught in this conflict.
 
“The sheer scale of human suffering is a grim reminder that it is civilians who bear the brunt in armed conflict and who pay the heaviest price. 

“We stand firm against violence directed at civilians; against the killing of children, the elderly, the infirm and non-combatants; against the targeting of critical infrastructure such as hospitals; and against the collective punishment of civilian populations.”
 
The President said that the wanton attack on civilians in Israel and the siege of Gaza and the decision to forcibly expel a population of over one million people from Gaza, together with the indiscriminate use of force, lays the basis for further suffering and death on a huge scale.
 
“Acts of collective punishment like cutting electricity, food, water, medical and other essential supplies to civilian populations are abhorrent, as is the deliberate destruction of people’s homes.
 
“As South Africans, this has echoes of the collective punishment of our own people by the apartheid regime as it sought to destroy the liberation movement. It brings back painful memories, as it does for our neighbours in the region,” the President said. 
 
He emphasised that South Africa echoes the position taken by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, that depriving civilians of goods essential for their survival is prohibited under international law.
 
He noted the growing concern that the current conflict may render the possibility of a sustainable peace between Israelis and Palestinians, and a two-State solution even further out of reach. 
 
The President said reconciliation and peace is possible if there is demonstrable political will from all sides, and when ordinary citizens commit to a common, shared future.
 
“Without justice, there can be no peace. The cycle of violence that has been unleashed is the tragic outcome of decades of unmet and unfulfilled possibilities to peacefully solve the problem between Israelis and Palestinians.
 
“The international community has a responsibility to support peace and to create favourable conditions for negotiation and dialogue, and not to fan the flames of conflict. World leaders need to, and must make, a call for peace and not vengeance,” the President said. 
 
He emphasised that the only way to bring about peace is the fulfilment of the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people to human rights, dignity and nationhood.
 
“It is our collective hope that the Israeli and Palestinian people come together, reconcile and choose the path of a just peace,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 10/16/2023 - 10:48

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Read morePresident Ramaphosa calls for cessation of acts of war in Israel and Palestine conflict

SA condemns violation of the Geneva Conventions

Location: News

SA condemns violation of the Geneva Conventions

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) has condemned in the strongest possible terms Israel’s violation of the Geneva Conventions and the abandonment of International Humanitarian Law in Gaza.

According to the World Health Organisation, the complete blockage of the Gaza Strip announced by Israel remains in effect.

Israeli authorities have stopped their electricity and water supply to the Gaza Strip and no movements of food, fuel, health, other humanitarian supplies or patients are allowed – worsening the already dire situation, said Dirco in a statement.

Article 14 of the Geneva Convention states: “Starvation of civilians as a method of combat is prohibited. It is therefore prohibited to attack, destroy, remove or render useless for that purpose, objects indispensable to the survival of the civilian population such as food-stuffs, agricultural areas for the production of food-stuffs, crops, livestock, drinking water installations and supplies and irrigation works”.

According to the Fourth Geneva Convention, “civilians in areas of armed conflict and occupied territories are protected by the 159 articles of the Fourth Geneva Convention. Civilians are to be protected from murder, torture, or brutality, and from discrimination on the basis of race, nationality, religion or political opinion”.

The UN Commission on Human Rights has previously declared Israel’s “continuous grave breaches” of the Fourth Geneva Convention and Additional Protocol I to be war crimes.

“International Humanitarian Law includes the obligation not to target civilian populations, and the responsibility to protect civilians in armed conflict. Israeli bombardments from the air, sea, and land have continued and intensified across the Gaza Strip for the sixth consecutive day.

“This is an egregious violation of International Humanitarian Law,” said Dirco.

According to the latest report from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the continual bombardment of the Gaza strip has now resulted in over 423 000 internally displaced people, this represents an increase of 24 percent over the past 24 hours. Two-thirds of the IDPs are taking shelter in UNRWA schools.

“[The] announcement by Israel giving 1.1 million Gazans 24 hours to leave the Northern Gaza strip and evacuate to the South of Gaza will lead to further catastrophe as, according to humanitarian organisations on the ground, there are not enough resources to host so many IDPs in other governorates - not enough shelter, aid or water.

“The UN has announced that UN schools turned into shelters are already overrun with shortages in resources, including food, water, medicine, and other humanitarian provisions as required under International Law,” the DIRCO statement read.

The department urged the Israeli government to heed calls to provide services to the Gaza strip.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has stressed that crucial life-saving supplies, including fuel, food and water, must be allowed into Gaza.

Between 100 and 150 Israelis, including soldiers and civilians, some of whom are women and children, as well as some foreign nationals, have been captured and forcibly taken into Gaza. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has also called for the “immediate release of all Israeli hostages, which is also forbidden under International Humanitarian Law”.

“South Africa calls on Israel to immediately heed the calls of the UN Secretary General, the plethora of humanitarian organisation operating in Gaza, and a number of governments around the world to immediately provide water, food, fuel, and electricity to the people of Gaza.

“South Africa also calls for the release of the Israeli hostages taken into Gaza,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Sun, 10/15/2023 - 09:01

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Launch of BMA a step in the factual direction in securing South Africa’s borders

Location: News

Launch of BMA a step in the right direction in securing South Africa’s borders

By Dr Michael Masiapato, PhD.

The Musina heat of 37°C gathered thousands of attendees to witness the historic launch of the Border Management Authority (BMA).

The Border Management Authority aims to ensure that South African borders are less porous and more efficient in facilitation of trade as well as ensuring the legitimate movement of goods and people.  South Africa has 72 ports of entry comprising of 53 land ports, 10 aviation or international airports and 9 marine (sea) ports. Over and above managing the 72 ports of entry, we are managing the vulnerable segments of our border lines and community crossing points.

The initial multi-departmental approach we had for the past 29 years was a major challenge, where a number of Departments were operating at the borders.  You had the Department of Home Affairs doing immigration; the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment doing biosecurity functions, the Department of Agriculture doing agriculture functions and also the Department of Health responsible for port health functions. In the previous years we had independent managers of those four departments operating at the ports and reporting back to their various departments. This was over and above the operations of the South African Revenue Services (SARS) facilitating port customs, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) responsible for border policing functions.

There was a necessity to bring a border management model where these port functions of the four Departments are integrated. The model involved the port related functions exiting those Departments and reporting to the Border Management Authority under one command. The need for an integrated and co-ordinated border management was in accordance with the Constitution, international and domestic law, in order to contribute to the socio-economic development of the Republic.

In order to empower the BMA to be effective, it was then created as a law enforcement authority, which became the third armed service in South Africa after SANDF and SAPS. The mandate of the BMA is clear in ensuring the prevention of smuggling and trafficking of human beings and goods; preventing illegal cross-border movement; contributing to the protection of the Republic’s environmental and natural resources; and protecting the Republic from harmful and infectious diseases, pests and substances. In July 2022, the first 221 officers were deployed as BMA Border Guards at vulnerable segments of the border line, including the informal community crossing points. Its formal establishment and assumption of its status as an autonomous schedule 3 (A) public entity was conferred on 1 April 2023. This being one of the most important authorities, it was necessary for President Cyril Ramaphosa, as Commander-in-Chief of the South Africa’s armed forces to preside over the launch of the Border Management Authority.

Subsequent to that, and additional 400 BMA Border Guards including 50 Coast guards are being recruited to ensure that the entity is effective and efficient at all border posts. In order to maintain the BMA integrity and based on the many corruption challenges that were faced in the past, section 13 of the BMA Act requires that all border management officials be fully vetted and regular lifestyle audits to be conducted.

To assist with technological support on Border Management operations, the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi recently announced the issuing of the Request for Proposal to the market for the redesigning and redevelopment of our top six busiest ports of entry. The primary intention is to ensure the realisation of regional economic integration in the SADC region, while facilitating the realisation of African Continental Free Trade Area. The re-developed ports of entry will result in the efficient cross-border management of movement of people, goods and services, improved revenue collection and preventing harmful imports and exports.

The six earmarked ports of entry are:

  • Beitbridge - Zimbabwe
  • Lebombo - Mozambique
  • Maseru Bridge – Lesotho
  • Ficksburg - Lesotho
  • Kopfontein - Botswana
  • Oshoek - Eswatini

These ports were earmarked in order to address the congestion, based on being the largest and busiest by traffic volume.

The re-designing project is expected to create an estimated 38 000 jobs in areas around the six designated ports of entry.

The BMA is a vital link in our efforts to harness the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area. Despite serious challenges faced before, the BMA will provide a sustainable solution to the structural challenges of border security, control and coordination. It is intended that this new approach will adapt and respond effectively to the challenges, threats and opportunities that exist in the Border environment whilst safe-guarding South Africa’s borders and meeting the country’s national, regional and global development responsibilities and human rights imperatives.
* Dr Michael Masiapato is the Commissioner and CEO of the Border Management Authority.

Matona
Thu, 10/12/2023 - 13:44

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Students encouraged to use Higher Health crisis helpline

Location: News

Students encouraged to use Higher Health crisis helpline

Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, has encouraged South African students to use the HIGHER HEALTH 24-hour crisis helpline, which addresses the mental health needs of students and staff in the higher education community.  

Nzimande made the call as the department joined the world in marking World Mental Health Day on Tuesday under the theme, ‘Mental health is a universal human right’.

The HIGHER HEALTH 24-hour crisis helpline can be accessed via a toll-free line on 0800 006 333. 

In response to mental health within the Post School Education and Training (PSET) sector, Nzimande said in the past two years, HIGHER HEALTH, the Higher Education and Training Department’s health and wellness agency, managed 53 619 reported mental health cases by students.
 
Nzimande said through HIGHER HEALTH Mental Health Prevention, the department provided mental health support to 321 004 students from January 2021 to June 2023, aimed towards fighting the stigma and taboos around mental health. 
 
“HIGHER HEALTH is also working with students from the LGBTQ+ [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, asexual, and more] community, survivors of GBV [gender-based violence] and general student and staff, and supports them with their health and psycho-social needs.  
 
“HIGHER HEALTH is equipped with mobile clinics, nurses, community health and wellness practitioners, psychologists and peer educators, to provide support to students, and arm them with knowledge to build their resilience against the scourge of mental health,” Nzimande said.
 
The HIGHER HEALTH Psychosocial Support Counselling Unit equipped with experienced psychologists and counsellors also supported 23 450 students through therapies and mental health treatment, from January 2021 to June 2023. 

Through HIGHER HEALTH, in July 2023, Nzimande launched the National Civic Education and Health Skills Programme’s co-curriculum designed to address a number of personal and social challenges facing youth within the PSET sector. 

The online programme covers six modules, including one Mental Health module. The co-curriculum is offered in all 12 official languages which includes the sign language. 
 
Raising awareness

Meanwhile, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) said it continues to work with all relevant stakeholders to maximise awareness on mental disorders as a disability. 

This includes health promotion, disease prevention, treatment and rehabilitation in primary, secondary and tertiary care. 

“The right to health must be informed by our human rights approach which calls for, among others, investment in community-based care, rehabilitation and prevention,” the department said.

As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, the department, together with SA Federation for Mental Health (SAFMH) and other government departments, will on 17 October 2023 co-host a webinar to discuss mental health issues. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 10/11/2023 - 10:10

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Nobel Peace Laureate Tawakkol Karman to Mentor Young Peacebuilders in South Africa

Location: MyPR

Cape Town , South Africa, October 10, 2023 – Mentoring PeaceBuilders South Africa NPC, an affiliate of the PeaceJam Foundation³, is proud to announce its 7th Annual PeaceJam South Africa Youth Leadership Conference with the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize Winner Tawakkol Karman¹. The conference will take place on October 13-15, 2023 with a Power of …

Read moreNobel Peace Laureate Tawakkol Karman to Mentor Young Peacebuilders in South Africa