Welfare Organisations Unpaid for Six Months by Gauteng Government
This is despite having signed agreements with the provincial Department of Social Development
Johannesburg
Gals in Hard Hats
Building a future for women in construction and infrastructure ‘Curiosity has no gender’: a pertinent observation from Palesa (Ntuku) Mokwena, a fourth year Bachelor of Science (civil engineering) student from the University of the Witwatersrand. Raised in a family that encouraged resourcefulness and discouraged gender stereotypes, Mokwena is fascinated by the diversity of civil engineering. …
The Benefits of Saunas for Your Home in Cape Town and Johannesburg
Saunas have long been associated with relaxation, health benefits, and overall wellness. Whether you’re looking for a way to unwind after a long day or seeking to improve your health, investing in a sauna can provide the perfect solution. For those in Cape Town and Johannesburg, home saunas have become increasingly popular, providing the convenience …
President Ramaphosa urges US business to invest in SA’s growing economy
President Ramaphosa urges US business to invest in SA’s growing economy
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on US businesses to deepen their investment ties with South Africa, highlighting the country's renewed focus on economic recovery and structural reform.
Speaking at the SA-US Interactive Business Forum in New York on Monday, the President emphasised the progress made under South Africa's Government of National Unity (GNU) and the vast opportunities available to foreign investors.
He said this is a “timely intervention”, referencing his first visit to the US since South Africa's general elections in May, which led to a coalition government of political parties committed to inclusive growth and job creation.
“The advent of the Government of National Unity has renewed investor optimism in the South African economy. The message I bring to US investors today is that this optimism is well-placed.
“South Africa is firmly on the road to recovery, and we invite you to be part of this journey. Investments in South Africa are secure. Our business environment is stable. This is supported policy certainty and regulatory safeguards,” the President said.
He added that South Africa intends to stay the course on the structural economic reform process, on scaling up investment in key infrastructure, and on improving the business operating environment.
The President noted South Africa’s success in attracting investment, revealing that the country had achieved its target of raising R1.2 trillion (approximately USD 63.6 billion) ahead of schedule in 2022.
“We have announced a new target of approximately R2 trillion or approximately USD 100 billion over the next five-year period up to 2028.
“The far-reaching structural reforms we have implemented over the past six years have opened up the country to increased levels of investment that continues to grow,” the President said.
Ramaphosa particularly underscored the potential in the clean energy sector, which has attracted significant investment, supporting South Africa’s commitment to decarbonisation and energy security.
"We are equally committed to a Just Energy Transition that is inclusive, that take our developmental needs into account, and that leaves no community behind.
“We have a supportive and enabling industrial policy that incorporates amongst others expanding the special economic zones, driving export-led growth, and harnessing the potential of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area or AfCFTA. In January 2024 we began preferential trading under the AfCFTA,” he said.
The President emphasised that the Government of National Unity is furthermore committed to prudent monetary and fiscal policy and to strengthening regulatory and legislative frameworks to combat corruption.
The President also highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships with US businesses, especially in sectors like advanced manufacturing, energy, healthcare, and infrastructure.
“South Africa and Africa is ripe for investment in financial services, advanced manufacturing, energy, healthcare, infrastructure development, mining, science and technology and other sectors. South Africa is also developing the value chains of the future.
“With substantial reserves of critical energy transition minerals, we are positioning ourselves to be at the forefront of the green energy revolution,” he said.
He added that as the country with the world’s largest platinum group metal reserves, South Africa has a competitive advantage when it comes to the production of sustainable energy technologies, including electric vehicles, new energy vehicles and renewable energy components.
President Ramaphosa praised the collaboration between the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), following the 2022 Memorandum of Understanding. He stated that the partnership between the two stock exchanges “promotes cross-border investment and drives economic growth on a global scale.”
The President further highlighted the US as one of South Africa’s most valued trade partners, noting that bilateral trade totalled USD 17.6 billion in 2022.
He also praised the impact of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) in fostering trade and creating jobs in sectors like automotive, agriculture, and precious metals.
With Africa's population expected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, President Ramaphosa painted a bright picture of the continent's economic prospects, noting that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) would "drive a wave of industrialisation and create dynamic regional value chains."
“This too presents opportunities for US businesses and investors, and opens up new markets for their goods, products and services.
“Mutually beneficial trade and investment not only unlocks the dynamism and potential of an entire continent. It will also aid Africa’s efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals,” the President said.
In closing, President Ramaphosa reassured investors of the stability and security of investments in South Africa.
“South Africa is open for business. Sustainable and inclusive growth spurs development and creates jobs.
“Together, we can forge a path to shared success and progress, leveraging our combined strengths to achieve enduring prosperity for our people,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 09/24/2024 - 11:01
179 views
2 Deaths From Hypothermia
In the News Today: JOHANNESBURG (AP) — Unseasonably late snowstorms battered coastal areas of South Africa over the weekend, killing two people and forcing the closure of some of the country’s major highways. The deaths were attributed to hypothermia after the two people were stuck in vehicles stranded by heavy snowfall on the N3 highway, which …
University Rowing Teams Shine at RMB Universities Boat Race 2024
The highly anticipated RMB Universities Boat Race 2024 came to a thrilling close on the Kowie River, marking another successful year of this premier rowing event. From the 12th to the 14th of September, South Africa’s top university rowing teams battled it out in a series of intense head-to-head races, showcasing exceptional talent, teamwork, and …
Parts on Call Expands Its Reach for Used Nissan Spares in South Africa
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Siyavela Impact Program Ambassadors Complete Inaugural Retreat
Johannesburg – 21 September 2024 – A select cohort of 18 leaders across the corporate, public, development and nonprofit sectors have completed their inaugural retreat as Siyavela Impact Program Ambassadors for 2024. The Siyavela Impact Program is a response to the challenges CSI, NPO and project leaders expressed in research conducted by the Siyavela Impact …
Gauteng Legislature Attempts to Hide the Truth Regarding Corruption Scandals
Dear Editor The Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL) continues to hide the truth regarding the corruption scandals that occurred under the watch of the former Speaker, Ntombi Mekgwe. Mekgwe, the Deputy Speaker, Nomvuyo Mhlakaza-Manamela, and the ANC Chief Whip, Lesego Makhubela, are implicated in corruption and interference with the disciplinary process involving 32 employees and two …
Chikunga hopeful of Women’s Forum recognition
Chikunga hopeful of Women’s Forum recognition
Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, says she is confident that the BRICS Women’s Forum will be recognised at this year’s Kazan Summit Declaration, scheduled to take place next month.
Chikunga made the remark as Russia prepares to host the BRICS Summit to be held in Kazan, from 22 to 24 October, after the country assumes the BRICS chairmanship in 2024.
This as the Minister led the discussions at the BRICS Women Affairs meeting held in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
READ | Chikunga arrives in Russia for BRICS Women Affairs Meeting
The meeting saw BRICS Member States discussing cooperation prospects in the fields of women’s leadership and enhancing the role of women in finance, agriculture, innovation, healthcare, creative industries, tourism, environmental safety, and the inclusive economy.
Speaking at the BRICS Women's Forum, which included the BRICS Ministerial Women’s Affairs Meeting on Friday, Chikunga congratulated the Russian Federation on assuming the Chairship of BRICS 2024, and the sterling work that it has undertaken to date.
“As you are aware, this forum of Ministers was first initiated in 2023 during South Africa's Chairship of BRICS. It is indeed encouraging to witness its growth under the stewardship of the Russian Federation's 2024 Chairship, and it will undoubtedly flourish under the future Chairship of fellow BRICS member states.
“We applaud Russia's choice of the theme 'Women, Governance, and Leadership' as a timely intervention that ensures this forum continues to amplify the voices, interests, and full representation of women across BRICS member states, promoting their meaningful participation at all levels of governance and decision-making.”
Chikunga also reflected on some of the key points that emerged during hybrid BRICS Ministers for Women Affairs held in December 2023, where the forum was recognised as a fundamental platform to elevate equality, women’s rights, economic autonomy, and empowerment; and to address major concerns related to women across the BRICS countries.
The forum also promotes mainstreaming of women’s issues across BRICS’ processes, priority areas, declarations and agreements; and provides a platform for the exchange of knowledge and best practices in advancing the current and future wellbeing of women and girls across BRICS.
“Our meeting recognised the tremendous progress that successive BRICS summits have produced in the areas of global governance, development, peace and security, energy, climate change, and social issues. We noted, however, that discussions in these areas would be further enriched by a ministerial meeting dedicated to women affairs.
“There was consensus on the potential of this forum to accelerate the implementation of existing commitments, principles, goals, and actions outlined in various international instruments on women. These include the Beijing Platform for Action (1995), the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW - 1979), UN Resolution 1325 (2000) on Women, Peace, and Security, as well as the UN [United Nations] Agenda 2030 and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” Chikunga explained.
The meeting further agreed to support the acceleration of the implementation of the African Union Agenda 2063, with a particular focus on Aspiration 6, which promotes women's empowerment.
Asserting women’s interests
The Ministers also highlighted the need to assert women’s interests across the broader BRICS agenda, strengthen multilateralism, and synergise with the work of the BRICS Business Women’s Alliance to accelerate the mainstreaming of socio-economic priorities for greater inclusivity and equity.
“We acknowledge that this goal will be further enriched when we leverage our collective strength as the Global South, alongside robust people-to-people exchanges and cooperation within BRICS nations and across the African continent.
“A key highlight of the Johannesburg II Declaration was the recognition of the vital role of women and youth in trade and their potential to act as catalysts for industrialisation, infrastructure development, food security, agricultural modernization, sustainable growth, healthcare, and addressing climate change,” she said.
The Johannesburg II Declaration is a document that encapsulates significant BRICS viewpoints on matters of global economic, financial and political significance.
READ | BRICS adopts Johannesburg II Declaration
– SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 09/23/2024 - 13:42
58 views
Heritage Month Quiz: Discover Your Perfect South African Heritage Experience
It’s Heritage Month and in celebration of South Africa’s rich diversity of cultures and traditions, First Loyalty Plus – SA’s premier All-Round Rewards Programme – has created a fun quiz, designed to help you uncover your perfect South African heritage experience. “South Africa is a multi-faceted land with a storied past,” says Samantha Pillay, Director …
Celebrate Heritage Day at Rosebank Mall: Discover the Richness of African Culture at the Rosebank Art & Craft Market
Heritage Day is fast approaching, and there’s no better way to celebrate South Africa’s diverse cultural tapestry than by visiting the Rosebank Art & Craft Market. Located at Rosebank Mall on Cradock Avenue, this market is a treasure trove rich in African heritage, offering a unique opportunity for locals and tourists alike to immerse themselves …
Neutrogena’s New Body Care Range Shines at Enchanting Johannesburg Launch
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Understanding Trichologists and Their Role in Hair and Scalp Health
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Gelant, Mulaudzi, and Kipngetich Set for Showdown at Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K
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Heavy snowfall on N3 claims life of a 39-year-old woman
Heavy snowfall on N3 claims life of a 39-year-old woman
A 39-year-old woman died on Saturday while trapped in the blizzard that has engulfed the N3 between Van Reenen’s Pass, connecting KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State.
This was confirmed by paramedic services, Midlands EMS [emergency medical services] Rescue Medics, in a statement.
According to the medical service, the Midlands EMS Howick crews, along with Midlands EMS Rescue Medics, were dispatched to a shopping centre in Merrivale for a person who had collapsed after being exposed to severe cold overnight, while in a taxi stuck in traffic in the snow.
The person was a passenger on the taxi travelling from Johannesburg towards KwaZulu-Natal. The taxi had stopped for refreshments when the incident occurred.
“Upon arrival, it was found that the individual had collapsed and was in a critical state of hypothermia, requiring urgent medical care.
“While en route to the hospital, the patient’s condition rapidly deteriorated. Full resuscitation efforts were performed but sadly, the patient was pronounced deceased upon arrival at the hospital,” reads the statement.
uMgungundlovu District Municipality and its sector departments have expressed their “deepest regret” for this tragic incident.
“We express our sincerest condolences to the family and once again, we reiterate to motorists to exercise restraint now that the roads are accessible to obviate further inconvenience, accidents and the risk of losing lives,” the municipality said in a statement.
Midlands EMS Rescue Medics urged the public not to underestimate the dangers of cold weather, and to ensure they always stay warm and safe. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 09/22/2024 - 08:27
141 views
The 2024 Carling Currie Cup Bulletin #23 – The Final
The 2024 Carling Currie Cup Premier Division will come to a thrilling conclusion in Johannesburg on Saturday when the Fidelity ADT Lions and Hollywoodbets Sharks XV meet in the final – the first between these two teams since 2011 – which is scheduled to kick off at 16h00 at Emirates Airline Park. The Highvelders will …
Gauteng Legislature Corruption Scandal
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL) demands the immediate resignation of the former Speaker, Ntombi Mekgwe, Deputy Speaker Nomvuyo Mhlakaza-Manamela, and ANC Chief Whip Lesego Makhubela. Following the recent revelations of political interference, corruption, and the deliberate suppression of justice within the GPL. The actions of the then Speaker …
Nyoloha Scholarship Programme Announces Costume and Fashion Designer Winner
The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) is proud to announce that young and upcoming designer, Thato Mahlangu, is selected as the winner of the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme costume and fashion designers gala performance finals event collaboration competition. Mahlangu, will have the opportunity to design costumes for participants showcasing their talents at the prestigious ACT …
Manzini Scoops R250 Million Loan From the Public Investment Corporation
Johannesburg, 20 September 2024: The decision to take a hard stance and regain financial control has paid dividends for Daybreak Foods’ CEO, Richard Manzini, as he welcomes the Public Investment Corporation SOC Limited’s (PIC) approval of a ZAR 250 million ($ 13 million) corporate loan. “It has not been an easy road for any of …
An Inside Look at the T20 Challenge Captains Day 2024/25
JOHANNESBURG: The 2024/25 T20 Challenge is set to kick off on Friday, 27 September, with the defending champions, DP World...
Gauteng NCOP Delegation Recommends Criminal Action Against Errant Project Developers Contractors
The NCOP Gauteng delegation conducted a successful oversight visit to unfinished and abandoned human settlements, health, education, and road projects in the West Rand and Sedibeng regions on Wednesday.
The visit is part of the week-long NCOP Provincial Week Programme, held under the theme “Confronting the Challenges Facing the Timely Delivery of Viable Public Infrastructure to Communities.”
The Provincial Week Programme aims to provide permanent delegates to the NCOP and their counterparts from the Gauteng Provincial Legislature with an opportunity to conduct oversight visits to various community development structures, including incomplete road projects, housing projects and other delayed or abandoned public infrastructure projects in the province. These oversight sessions involve officials and managers from affected districts and provincial and national government departments.
Among the abandoned projects visited by the delegation yesterday was the Montrose Mega Project in Randfontein. The project started in 2017 and is expected to yield 13 792 mixed typologies upon completion.
Briefing the delegation on the challenges, interventions and way forward, the provincial Department of Human Settlements said the project had faced various challenges, such as non-performance by the developer, as he failed to resume site in January 2024. The developer also failed to disclose a liquidation order issued by the court against him in 2023 in favour of contractors. The delegation was informed that the developer failed to pay the Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), which he appointed as his service providers. The abandoned project is now facing a serious problem of vandalism of the units.
As part of the interventions, the department reported that it sought a legal opinion on the options available to act against the developer and a notice of termination was issued. The delegation was told that three criminal cases had been opened for the vandalism of the infrastructure, and some of the perpetrators had been brought to justice.
The department further reported that, as part of the way forward, they are appointing a security company to protect the remaining infrastructure and will commence negotiations with the land owner on acquiring the land.
The delegation also visited the Rus-Ter-Vaal Secondary School. The project was initiated in 2016 and set for construction in 2018. A contractor was appointed and initiated the construction process but abandoned the site without completing the project.
The delegation was told that the project remains abandoned as of August 2024. The department is set to appoint a contractor and hand over the site to the contractor by the end of September.
The MEC for Education committed to providing regular feedback to the NCOP on this delayed project and ensured that the contractors' contract would be terminated where there were unjustifiable delays.
The NCOP Gauteng delegation also conducted oversight at Kopanong Hospital in Vereeniging. Construction of the hospital started in 2021, with an original completion date of August 2022. The appointed contractor could not finish the project, and their contract was terminated.
The delegation was very concerned about the state of the Kopanong Hospital, which is in decay. The abandoned, incomplete wards were meant to accommodate emergency patients during COVID-19, but the contractor failed to finish the job.
The delegation also visited the R82 Old Johannesburg Road in Walkerville. The Initial consultant was terminated due to poor performance. A new consulting engineer was appointed on 23 August 2024. The delegation was informed that the project is scheduled to recommence the first week of October 2024. The contractor is mobilising to return to the site at the beginning of September 2024.
Some of the challenges facing the project include the encroachment of 10 households on the site—intervention to relocate the residents is being sought.
The delegation further visited the Bekkerdal Care of the Age Centre, New Simunye High School in Westonaria, and the Lethabong Mega Project in Sebokeng. The delegation applauded the Lethabong Mega Project, as it was the only site progressing well among all the visited projects.
The delegation, led by Ms Jane Mananiso, NCOP Gauteng Provincial Whip, recommended that criminal cases be opened against developers who are at fault for any of the projects' issues.
Highlighting the importance of accountability and transparency, Ms Mananiso said public representatives must ensure that every rand spent on infrastructure development translates into tangible benefits for the people. “The NCOP's oversight provides an invaluable mechanism for ensuring accountability and transparency, and I have no doubt that your engagements with us this week will help strengthen the systems that underpin effective governance,” she said.
The delegation is today, Thursday, 19 September, conducting oversight visits to projects around the Ekurhuleni and Tshwane regions. The projects include:
- - Bakerton Library in Springs
- - Barcelona Primary in Daveyton
- - Semphato Junior Secondary School in Soshanguve
- - Transoranje LSEN - Pretoria
- - Women Living Monument in Pretoria
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Things to Do with Your Kids This Holiday Period: A Week of Fun and Learning
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Nando’s HYD 2024 Announces Top Five Finalists in Its ‘Screen Dream’ Talent Search
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