SA U19 Women Star In Latest Round Of The CSA Professional Domestic Women’s League
JOHANNESBURG: The Cricket South Africa (CSA) Professional Domestic Women’s League is in full swing and months after the inaugural ICC U19...
KwaZulu-Natal
KZN teachers march for safety at schools
“Some of our colleagues have been brutally murdered while at the workplace”
The Popular Vitality Dash Series Is Coming To Gqeberha This Saturday!
Discovery Vitality has partnered with Rafi’s Appliances and Mattresses to bring the popular National Vitality Series to Gqeberha on Saturday. The Rafi’s BayRun will be hosted by 32Gi and Achilles Athletics clubs on Saturday, 21 October, and will start and finish at Cape Recife High School. Collection of race numbers and late entries will be …
Census 2022 shows decrease in orphans in the country
Census 2022 shows decrease in orphans in the country
South Africa's Census 2022 national results has shown a decrease in the percentage of children aged 0-17 who are orphans in the country.
“KwaZulu-Natal observed the highest decrease in all orphanhood types from 2011 to 2022. Paternal orphans are highest in all censuses and provinces,” Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke said.
The data from Census 2022, which Maluleke handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday in Pretoria, indicates that information on parental survival is collected in order to determine maternal or paternal orphanhood, and estimation of adult mortality.
In 2011, the stats for paternal orphans were at 12.1% while in 2022 they were at 8.9%, maternal orphans stood at 3.0% in 2011 and in 2022 they were at 2.3%. Double orphans were at 3.9% in 2011 and they decreased to 2.5% in 2022. In 2011, non orphans were at 81.0% and in 2022 the figure stood at 86.2%.
“Comparison of Census 2011 and census 2022 showed that in both censuses, paternal orphanhood was more prevalent compared to maternal and double orphanhood. Trends show that there has been a decrease in orphanhood and this is the case for all the three types,” he said.
Non orphans are children 0-17 aged years whose both biological mother and father were still alive while paternal orphans are children 0-17 aged years whose biological fathers were no longer alive but their mothers were still alive.
Maternal orphans refer to children aged 0-17 years whose biological mothers were no longer alive but their fathers were still alive and double orphans are children aged 0-17 years who reported that both mother and father have died.
“Provincial variations in orphanhood showed that Eastern Cape (15.8%) and KwaZulu-Natal (15.5%) had the highest percentage of paternal orphans in both Censuses 2011 and 2022. In census 2022, Eastern Cape (3.4%), Free State (3.1%), North West (2.9% and Mpumalanga (2.6%) provinces had percentage of double orphans above the national average (2.5%),” Maluleke said.
Agricultural households
Census 2022 shows that 13.8% (2 463 429) of all households are agricultural households compared to 19.9% in 2011 (2 879 590).
Most of the households were involved in agriculture to produce ‘only for own consumption’ (1 988 825 or 80.7%) and ‘mainly for own consumption with some sale’ (189 371 or 7.7%).
Approximately 4.3% or 107 112 of agricultural households were producing ‘only for sale’.
“The major provinces contributing to the decrease are KwaZulu-Natal (-167 726 agricultural households), Eastern Cape (-114 846 agricultural households) and Free State (-65 522 agricultural households).
“Most of the agricultural households were in KwaZulu-Natal (24.9%), Eastern Cape (20.7%) and Limpopo (16.3%) in 2011. In 2022, KwaZulu-Natal (22.3%) still reported the highest percentage of agricultural households.
“However, Limpopo (21.1%) overtook Eastern Cape (19.6%). Northern Cape and Western Cape reported the lowest percentage of agricultural households in both 2011 and 2022,” Maluleke said.
The trends in percentage contribution by various population groups to total agricultural households remained largely the same in the two years.
Black African households (91.4% in 2011 and 90.8% in 2022) constituted the largest percentage of agricultural households, followed by white households (5.2% in both 2011 and 2022) in both years.
“Livestock and poultry production was the leading agricultural activity, reported in 959 365 (38.9%) households, followed by fruit or vegetable production (661 613 or 26,9%) and grains, food crops and industrial crops (650 096 or 26.4%).
“Eastern Cape (247 902 or 25.8%) and KwaZulu-Natal (247 043 or 25.8%) reported the highest number of households involved in livestock and poultry production. The leading provinces in the production of grains, food crops and industrial crops were Limpopo (250 463 or 38.5%) and KwaZulu-Natal (126 727 or 19.5%),” he said.
The main place used for household agricultural activity in 2022 was backyard (2 196 736 or 89.2%), followed by farm land (131 105 or 5.3%)
‘Other’, which includes schools and other public spaces, was reported by 51 007 households, and constituted the least reported place of agricultural activity.
“With the exception of chickens, Eastern Cape reported the highest numbers in all types of livestock ownership. Nationally, chickens (38.2 million) were the most numerous type of livestock kept at household level, followed by sheep (17.7 million) and cattle (12.3 million).
“The black African and white population groups were the most dominant in livestock and chicken farming. The highest number of cattle (7.7 million) and sheep (12.5 million) were reported in white-headed households, whereas most chickens (19.0 million), goats (4.9 million) and pigs (1.1 million) were reported in black African households,” Maluleke said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 10:55
310 views
SARS, law enforcement agencies wreck coal syndicates
SARS, law enforcement agencies break coal syndicates
A massive inter-governmental search and seizure operation across five provinces was carried out on Thursday to break the back of a sophisticated criminal syndicate of alleged coal-smugglers, who played a major role in exacerbating the energy crisis and loadshedding.
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) was the lead agency in yesterday’s search and seizure operation because information became available regarding a host of tax crimes allegedly committed by members of the coal-smuggling syndicate.
“This success of today’s (Thursday) operation is due to exceptional inter-governmental co-operation and information-sharing under the auspices of the NATJOINTS Energy Safety & Security Priority Committee tasked with unmasking and bringing to book the criminals that have caused economic hardship and personal hardship to all citizens of the country,” said the South African Revenue Services in a statement.
“It is due to such hard work, often behind the scenes, that leads to these investigative breakthroughs and ensures that South Africans can return to a lifestyle without loadshedding. These targeted operations also help to prevent the loss of revenue to the fiscus, which in this case amounted to more than R500-million,” SARS said.
According to SARS, the alleged coal-smugglers and their related entities are active and have a presence in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State and Limpopo.
The suspects targeted yesterday include former Eskom employees who facilitated procurement fraud, as well as other individuals involved in the diversion of high-grade coal.
SARS managed to establish links between individuals and related entities and confirmed possible gross contraventions from a tax perspective in terms:
- Non-registration for Income Tax, VAT and/or PAYE.
- Failure to submit tax returns.
- Under-declaration of income.
- Claiming undue VAT refunds.
- Making false submissions (Fraud)
The sophisticated network of coal-smugglers is suspected to consist of local and foreign nationals. Coal trucks destined for power stations are diverted to designated coal yards where high-grade coal is replaced with low-grade or sub-standard product.
The high-grade coal is then exported or sold to willing buyers. The low-grade coal is often blended with scrap or other materials and then delivered to power stations.
The low-grade coal damages the infrastructure at the Eskom power stations, which is a major factor in crippling the power utility’s ability to generate electricity for the South African grid.
SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter commended the country’s law enforcement agencies for this massive breakthrough in ongoing investigations.
“It is because of such naked greed that the country has experienced unprecedented loadshedding, which harms business, undermines foreign direct investment and leads to job losses – all of which negatively affect revenue collection,” he said.
“All law enforcement agencies must continue their aggressive fight against criminality, each according to its mandate. For its part, SARS will continue to pursue taxpayers involved in intentional and wilful non-compliance – without fear, favour or prejudice,” Kieswetter said.
SARS is encouraged that the message is clear and unequivocal to all those involved in organised crime – you will be hunted down and brought to book. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 11:34
123 views
WESTOWN ONE-YEAR-ON AND TAKING SHAPE: Westown, Shongweni KwaZulu-Natal – The Novel City of the West celebrates its first anniversary since breaking ground and what has been planned, sketched, and rendered is now coming to life.
The vast, 100 hectare site is a hive of activity, with local contractors Stefanutti Stocks heading up the construction work with approximately 500 people currently on site. Piling, earthworks, retaining structures and columns of Westown Square are virtually all complete and the walls of the 50 000m² retail experience, the first project within Westown, are …
Balwin Extends Its Footprint In KZN With Its Novel Lifestyle Estate At Iconic Westown
Shongweni Park to comprise 1 260 apartments in 20 phases over the next four years at Westown, near Hillcrest in outer west Durban Complements its two coastal estates in Umhlanga and Ballito Shongweni Park lifestyle estate will be developed according to Balwin’s Classic brand and include one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments Each apartment sold with a …
Bowmans appoints Effect Linington as tax executive in Johannesburg
Leading African law firm Bowmans continues to enhance the breadth and depth of its offering in tax, this time with the appointment of Mark Linington as tax executive in its Johannesburg office. Linington is a chartered accountant with 28 years’ experience as a tax adviser. ‘Mark is a well-known and respected practitioner and will enhance …
Samsung announces the winner of the Solve for Tomorrow schools competition
South Africa – Mbilwi Secondary School from Venda, Limpopo was announced as the winner of the Solve for Tomorrow schools competition at a ceremony at Birchwood Conference Centre in Johannesburg. The competition, which was run in partnership with the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), was aimed at giving grade 10 and 11 learners from underserved …
Manhunt launched for escaped inmates
Manhunt launched for escaped inmates
The Department of Correctional Services together with the South African Police Service (SAPS) have launched a manhunt for two escaped inmates in KwaZulu-Natal.
According to the department, the two were based at the Nkandla and Vryheid Correctional facilities in that province.
“The escapees are 34-year-old Siyabonga Sikhakhane, serving 16 years imprisonment of which 8 years is suspended for housebreaking and theft. He has been incarcerated at the Nkandla Correctional Centre since 23 March 2022.
“The second escapee is 29-year-old Siphamandla Gift Simelane, serving two years for similar offences of housebreaking and theft. He was admitted at the Vryheid Correctional Centre on 03 October 2023.
“The Emergency Support Team of Correctional Services is working together with the South African Police Service in an effort to rearrest the two. The circumstances under which the two inmates escaped are being investigated as they were both out with the spans (work teams],” the department said.
The department has urged the public to report any sighting of the two to the police. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 10/11/2023 - 10:15
379 views
Hollywood Foundation Contributes R10 Million to Refurbish KZN Children’s Hospital for Adolescent Mental Health Ward on World Mental Health Day
In honour of World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2023, the Hollywood Foundation is thrilled to announce its substantial contribution of R10 million towards the renovation of the KwaZulu-Natal Children’s Hospital. This remarkable contribution will be dedicated to the creation of a state-of-the-art 15-bed Mental Health ward, catering specifically to adolescent girls with neurological …
Nkandla Correctional Centre fugitive rearrested
Nkandla Correctional Centre fugitive rearrested
An inmate of the Nkandla Correctional Centre in KwaZulu-Natal who escaped from custody has been rearrested.
This after the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) and the SA Police Service launched a manhunt for the inmate – Siyabonga Sikhakhane – as well as another fugitive yesterday afternoon.
On the rearrest, DCS National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale, said: “This is good progress and we remain determined to find Siphamandla Gift Simelane who remains at large”.
According to the department Sikhakhane is expected to appear in court and will be transferred to another facility.
“The Department of Correctional Services remains relentless in its mission to apprehend those that escape from correctional centres. Escaping from lawful custody is a criminal offence and those aiding such acts shall be spared no mercy,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 10/11/2023 - 11:25
263 views
Agriculture Committee Concludes Public Hearings on Preservation and Development of Agricultural Land (PDAL) Bill in Parliament
The Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development concluded the last leg of nationwide public hearings on the Preservation and Development of Agricultural Land (PDAL) Bill in Parliament yesterday.
The committee facilitated the final hearings to give stakeholders and individuals who had expressed their wish to clarify their written submissions an opportunity to do so. Stakeholders taking up this opportunity included the Minerals Council South Africa, Agri SA, the KwaZulu-Natal Agricultural Union, the Agricultural Business Chamber, the Black Agricultural Commodities Federation, Inyanda National Land Movement and the Rural Women's Assembly (RWA) of South Africa.
The Mineral Council of South Africa, a voluntary membership founded in 1889 representing mining companies producing about 90% of South Africa's mineral production, submitted that it vehemently opposes mining through restrictions and imposing additional authorisations for mining on agricultural land. The council pointed out that the Bill obliges municipalities to designate all land as agricultural land, except land specifically excluded under the Bill. The committee was told that this approach is flawed, as it appears to intrude on the municipal competence with respect to municipal planning.
The council further stated that the Bill does not recognise the crucial role mining plays in job creation, export earnings and infrastructure development. In addition, the absence of exemption for mining and of defined processes for how competing mining interests will be accommodated leaves the mining industry at mercy of the Minister of Agriculture.
The Inyanda National Land Movement and the RWA, which includes black smallholder crop and livestock owners in several of provinces, including the Eastern, Western and Northern Cape, Limpopo and the Free State, welcomed that the PDAL Bill recognises, “it is in the national interest to preserve and promote the sustainable development of agricultural land for the production of food and other agricultural products for the primary purpose of sustaining and enhancing human life for the benefit of present and future generations.”
However, they had some concerns that they hope the committee will consider when taking the Bill forward. One concern is the requirement that smallholder and “emerging” producers have “adequate buffer to cater for risks related to climate variability”, which they say is exclusionary and ignores the reality of black producers, who continue to be allocated less productive land, as the best agricultural land was taken by colonial settlers.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela, thanked all the stakeholders who took the time to present their views to the committee. He said their inputs will be considered when the committee finalises its report for submission in the National Assembly.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
How Thabo Bester murdered Nomfundo Tyhulu
The Thabo Bester Story is on sale today
Programme to assist unemployed people acquire driving licenses
Programme to assist unemployed people get driving licenses
The KwaZulu-Natal Transport Department has called on all unemployed citizens in the province to apply for a programme designed to assist them get drivers' licenses and increase their chances of getting a job.
As part of the provincial Transport Month campaign, Transport, Community Safety and Liaison MEC, Sipho Hlomuka, launched the Thuthuka Driving Skills Programme that will assist more than 3 000 people across all age groups to get free learners and driving licences from Code 08 to Code 14.
“This is part of our ongoing contribution to job creation because we know that when people have licences, they stand a better chance of being employed across all sectors. We have already begun to engage with the driving schools’ executives to bring them on board and work with them in rolling out this programme,” Hlomuka said.
Hlomuka added that through the Thuthuka Driving Skills Programme initiative, the department is working on the eligibility criteria for obtaining a driver licence.
To access the application form for the programme, click on https://bit.ly/3ZNieZ0, alternatively, you may access the form on the department’s website http://www.kzntransport.gov.za then click on Electronic Reading Room on the left-hand sidebar and choose forms from the options, then choose forms again. Click on the Thuthuka Skills Development Programme Application Form in order to download and fill out the form.
Completed forms may be handed in at the nearest Department of Transport Regional Office or Cost Centre office, as well as the department’s Head Office.
Applications for the programme close on 17 October 2023.
Protests by internal contract workers condemned
Meanwhile, Hlomuka has condemned the protests by the department’s internal contract workers, which has seen the attack of department officials and government cars being stoned.
The protests have been taking place at various departmental offices due to grievances surrounding the recruitment process of Road Worker Aides.
Hlomuka said, as part of S’thesha Waya Waya, more than 5 978 posts were advertised for Road Worker Aids and Grader Operators.
The MEC noted that due to the number of posts, the department knew that there would be a huge number of people applying, and in the process “a lot of dissatisfaction to many people seeking employment, even among our own internal contractor workers who are employed through the Vukayibambe Routine Road Maintenance Programme”.
“We have labour laws in the country and if people are unhappy about the recruitment process there are clear channels to follow. Where there are genuine complaints, we have directed the Head of Department to investigate any concerns and call upon our contract workers to not resort to violence,” Hlomuka said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 10/10/2023 - 12:54
1346 views
Local government called to drive tourism investment
Local government called to drive tourism investment
KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, has challenged local government to drive tourism through investment in socio-economic infrastructure.
“Our view is that local government is where tourism happens, and this is why local government is best placed to create a memorable experience for tourists,” Duma said.
Duma was speaking at the Provincial Tourism and Investment Committee (PTIC) meeting, held at Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre on Tuesday.
The PTIC, which includes representatives of KZN metropolitan, district and local municipalities; CEOs of public entities and private sector organisations, seeks to deliberate on radical industry transformation matters.
The meeting aimed to assess progress in relation to investments in socio-economic infrastructure in various municipalities across the province.
In his opening remarks, Duma said local government aims to ensure that KZN is amongst the top tourist destinations.
“Each one of us here has a special role to play in making this a reality-in one way or another, we have a direct impact on the future of tourism," Duma said.
Duma said the province is lobbying and bidding to host the national and international events, as part of the stimulation of tourism.
“We hosted, successfully, the MTN 8 Finals over the weekend. We will be hosting the South African Music Awards around 17 to 18 November at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.
“KZN will be put firmly on the map as we host the jewel of the creative industry. We will be doing destination marketing and activations in various parts of the province,” Duma said.
To achieve this, he said all municipalities must play a role and maximise the considerable job creating potential of the tourism sector.
“The tourism sector is a national priority sector with enormous potential to promote economic development, thus requiring of municipalities to promote it and support it. We must pride ourselves on a responsible, sustainable and transforming sector,” the MEC said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 10/10/2023 - 15:22
26 views
Family Call For The Vitality Sprint Series In Gqeberha
Discovery Vitality has partnered with Rafi’s Appliances and Mattresses to bring the National Vitality Series to Gqeberha on Saturday, 21 October. The Rafi’s BayRun, which will be hosted by 32Gi and Achilles Athletics clubs, will start and finish at Cape Recife High School. The Vitality Run Series was introduced in 2017, with the aim to …
Police dealing decisively with crime ahead of festive season: Masemola
Police dealing decisively with crime ahead of festive season: Masemola
The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, has reassured that police will continue to deal decisively with criminals ahead of the busy festive season.
Through Operation Shanela, police continue to “dislodge and disrupt activities of organised crime syndicates” linked to serious and violent crimes, especially aggravated armed robberies such as cash-in-transit (CIT) heists.
Masemola said police remain on course to sniff out more syndicates. He said police “will not negotiate with criminals”.
“We are tailoring our operations to ensure that a strong presence of police is felt on the ground. We are investing in our police to ensure they are operationally ready and have the required resources,” Masemola said.
In the latest takedown operation, Gauteng police arrested four suspects linked to a CIT robbery, which took place in Kaalfontein, near Tembisa.
The suspects were traced to various addresses in Tembisa. In their possession, police found a Mercedes Benz alleged to be used as a getaway vehicle, dye stained money, explosives and an AK47.
In their preliminary investigation, the police have established that the Mercedes Benz that has been recovered was hijacked in Springs earlier this year. The owner of the vehicle will be traced and informed accordingly.
In KwaZulu-Natal, four suspects were shot and killed during a confrontation with police at a home utilised as a safe haven for the syndicate in KwaMashu on Friday morning.
In their possession, police found four firearms including an AK47, explosives and false vehicle number plates.
The Hawks also arrested a 38-year-old Zimbabwean national, who was found with explosives on Friday morning. The team was following up on information when a bus from Zimbabwe, heading to Johannesburg, was pulled over on the N14.
The team is investigating the possibility of such explosives being utilised in the spate of CITs in the country. Investigations continue to trace the origin of the explosives and where they were destined.
The police are also appealing to communities not to pick up money at CIT crime scenes, as this amounts to theft and defeating the ends of justice.
According to the police, CIT crime scenes are dangerous and can also pose a risk for the loss of life.
High-density operations are being intensified through regular roadblocks, stop and searches and the tracing of wanted suspects across the country to ensure the safety and security of all people living in South Africa.
“Day in and day out, we are taking down these criminals one by one! These takedowns must serve as a deterrent to those involved in these aggravated robberies. We are ushering in the festive season and we are prepared to deal decisively with crime and criminals in all forms and shape,” Masemola said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 11:33
213 views
Phaahla to lead World Mental Health Day commemoration
Phaahla to lead World Mental Health Day commemoration
Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, will on Tuesday lead the World Mental Health Day commemorative event in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal.
The day will help improve knowledge, raise awareness and drive actions that promote and protect everyone’s mental health as a universal human right.
Phaahla will be joined by the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Health Nomagugu Simelane, World Health Organisation’s Country Director Dr Owen Kaluwa, representatives from human rights bodies and local leaders.
The 2023 campaign will be commemorated under the theme “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right” theme, which serves as a clarion call for countries to improve access to quality mental health services and ensure that the human rights and well-being of people with mental disorders are respected and upheld.
The Department of Health has called on communities and organisations to create an enabling environment for people to openly discuss mental health challenges and share experiences to help break down barriers.
According to the department, this will also encourage health-seeking behaviour for early diagnosis and effective management.
“Stigma and discrimination can make mental health problems worse and delay a person from seeking help they need to recover,” it said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 10/08/2023 - 13:33
165 views
Kzn Mec Celebrates With Futurelife® At Factory Opening
Leading food company, wholly-owned by PepsiCo South Africa, FUTURELIFE®, today celebrated the grand opening of its new cutting-edge manufacturing facility at Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone (SEZ), in Kwa-Zulu Natal. This event brought together key government officials, business leaders, and FUTURELIFE® employees. The opening of the facility showcases FUTURELIFE®’s resilience, innovation, and steadfast commitment to …
A Comprehensive Guide to SEO Packages in South Africa
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) has become an integral part of any business’s digital marketing strategy. In a world where online visibility can make or break a brand, it’s vital to invest in the right SEO package. In South Africa, with its diverse landscape and unique regional characteristics, SEO services have been tailored to cater to …
Grant beneficiaries queue at ATMs as KZN post offices sprint out of cash
“In the 90s, the Post Office was reliable but now it seems as if everything is falling apart,” says KwaMashu pensioner
Futurelife invests R75m in Dube Trade Port SEZ facility
Futurelife invests R75m in Dube Trade Port SEZ facility
KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, says the investment in a new Futurelife manufacturing facility at the Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has created hope for a better future for the province.
Duma made the remarks during the launch of a R75 million investment by South African health foods manufacturer, Futurelife, which took occupation in a new manufacturing facility in Dube TradePort, located near the King Shaka International Airport.
The modern factory is set to streamline Futurelife's production processes, enhancing the organisation's efficiency through the purchase of advanced machinery and equipment that will enable the factory to operate at international standards.
Cutting the ribbon to officially mark the factory opening for business, Duma emphasised the important role that the factory will play in sustainable economic development in KwaZulu-Natal.
Duma said locating the business within the Dube Trade Port SEZ will ensure efficiencies in the operations while reducing the logistics costs.
Ahead of the COVID-19 lockdown, about 315 000 people were employed in manufacturing, representing just of 12% of total formal and informal employment.
He said the plant is an integral part of the provincial industrial strategy which aims to stimulate the manufacturing industry in order to increase employment.
“This launch is a result of your ability to work together to master new state-of-the-art technologies and to do this all on schedule. If we are to realise the province’s full potential and discharge our shared commitment to create a better life for all South Africans, then increased investment in the province is of critical importance.
“The fact that Futurelife already sources 87% of its raw materials locally, gives local producers an advantage of future upstream integration as Futurelife continues to pursue growth into regional and international markets," Duma said
Futurelife, which previously had its operations in Pinetown for 14 years, was fully acquired by food and beverage company, PepsiCo South Africa in 2023.
Former Futurelife Managing Director and now PepsiCo South Africa’s Commercial Vice President Mark Bunn said the exceptional facility is a testament to the company’s commitment to transforming and improving South Africans' health and well-being.
“The new factory embodies our dedication to contributing positively to the local community and ultimately the broader economy. The company has its origins in KwaZulu-Natal and has experienced significant growth and success within this region and, over time, in South Africa at large.
“We are, therefore, unwavering in our commitment to giving back to the very community and economy that has played a pivotal role in our journey. Our dedication extends beyond business as usual; it's a pledge to support and enrich the local community and economy through our endeavours, ensuring a lasting positive impact for years to come,” Bunn said.
Bunn said the company currently has a staff complement of 186 and anticipates creating an additional 24 direct jobs in the next five years of its operations within the new facility.
He added that the company anticipates growing 30% of its business into export markets in Asia, Middle East, Europe, North America and the rest of the African continent.
Dube Trade Port SEZ CEO, Hamish Erskine said the investment is significant for FutureLife, and serves as a notable endorsement for the SEZ, as an investment destination in South Africa.
“As the Special Economic Zone operator, we welcome this investment and look forward to working with and supporting FutureLife in their development journey, as we also continue to build a highly secure and functional industrial precinct,” Erskine said.
Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone is home to 46 operational business enterprises, which have collectively created 10 803 jobs, as at March 2023. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 14:20
390 views
Futurelife invests R75m to Dube TradePort SEZ facility
Futurelife invests R75m to Dube TradePort SEZ facility
KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, says the investment in a new Futurelife manufacturing facility at the Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has created hope for a better future for the province.
Duma made the remarks during the launch of a R75 million investment by South African health foods manufacturer, Futurelife, which took occupation in a new manufacturing facility in Dube TradePort, located near the King Shaka International Airport.
The modern factory is set to streamline Futurelife's production processes, enhancing the organisation's efficiency through the purchase of advanced machinery and equipment that will enable the factory to operate at international standards.
Cutting the ribbon to officially mark the factory opening for business, Duma emphasised the important role that the factory will play in sustainable economic development in KwaZulu-Natal.
Duma said locating the business within the Dube Trade Port SEZ will ensure efficiencies in the operations while reducing the logistics costs.
Ahead of the COVID-19 lockdown, about 315 000 people were employed in manufacturing, representing just of 12% of total formal and informal employment.
He said the plant is an integral part of the provincial industrial strategy which aims to stimulate the manufacturing industry in order to increase employment.
“This launch is a result of your ability to work together to master new state-of-the-art technologies and to do this all on schedule. If we are to realise the province’s full potential and discharge our shared commitment to create a better life for all South Africans, then increased investment in the province is of critical importance.
“The fact that Futurelife already sources 87% of its raw materials locally, gives local producers an advantage of future upstream integration as Futurelife continues to pursue growth into regional and international markets," Duma said
Futurelife, which previously had its operations in Pinetown for 14 years, was fully acquired by food and beverage company, PepsiCo South Africa in 2023.
Former Futurelife Managing Director and now PepsiCo South Africa’s Commercial Vice President Mark Bunn said the exceptional facility is a testament to the company’s commitment to transforming and improving South Africans' health and well-being.
“The new factory embodies our dedication to contributing positively to the local community and ultimately the broader economy. The company has its origins in KwaZulu-Natal and has experienced significant growth and success within this region and, over time, in South Africa at large.
“We are, therefore, unwavering in our commitment to giving back to the very community and economy that has played a pivotal role in our journey. Our dedication extends beyond business as usual; it's a pledge to support and enrich the local community and economy through our endeavours, ensuring a lasting positive impact for years to come,” Bunn said.
Bunn said the company currently has a staff complement of 186 and anticipates creating an additional 24 direct jobs in the next five years of its operations within the new facility.
He added that the company anticipates growing 30% of its business into export markets in Asia, Middle East, Europe, North America and the rest of the African continent.
Dube Trade Port SEZ CEO, Hamish Erskine said the investment is significant for FutureLife, and serves as a notable endorsement for the SEZ, as an investment destination in South Africa.
“As the Special Economic Zone operator, we welcome this investment and look forward to working with and supporting FutureLife in their development journey, as we also continue to build a highly secure and functional industrial precinct,” Erskine said.
Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone is home to 46 operational business enterprises, which have collectively created 10 803 jobs, as at March 2023. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 14:20
96 views