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Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens Strengthens u.s. – SA Ties During Groundbreaking Official Visit

Location: Business

U.S. Embassy & Consulates in South Africa
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Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens concluded a landmark official visit to South Africa, accompanied by a delegation of 35 Atlantan political, business, and community leaders.  The December 4-11 visit marked a significant milestone in Atlanta Phambili—a subnational diplomacy initiative centered on deepening U.S.-South Africa partnership through the City of Atlanta– and reaffirmed the shared commitment to advancing economic, cultural, and educational collaboration between the two nations.

“This trip was a celebration of the enduring bonds between Atlanta and South Africa, built on shared histories and common goals,” said Mayor Dickens.  “Atlanta Phambili embodies our joint vision for progress and collaboration, creating opportunities for both our citizens and economies.”

The visit followed the launch of Atlanta Phambili in March 2024 with a trade and investment roadshow hosted in Atlanta, featuring senior South African business executives and government officials.

South Africa and Atlanta United in Progress

The South African government, in partnership with Standard Bank, BrandSA, Amazon, and the American Chamber of Commerce in South Africa, hosted a robust program focused on trade and investment, science and innovation, and the creative economy.  This was led by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC), the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC), the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), the Gauteng and Western Cape provincial governments, and the cities of Johannesburg and Cape Town.

“The South African government's partnership on the Atlanta Phambili initiative is a testament to the strength of our bilateral ties and the shared potential of our cities to drive innovation, inclusion, and prosperity,” said U.S. Ambassador to South Africa Reuben Brigety, II.

Visit Milestones

Atlanta Phambili Pledge

The visit kicked off with the unveiling of the Atlanta Phambili Pledge on December 5 at the Standard Bank Trade and Investment Seminar in Johannesburg.  This open call to action seeks to mobilize stakeholders across both nations to deepen collaboration in trade, investment, and entrepreneurship.  The pledge reflects Atlanta's and South Africa's shared commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth and creating opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Go Global Trade Expo: Strengthening Black-Owned Business Connections
On December 5, Ambassador Brigety announced a collaboration between the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Atlanta Black Chambers to support the Chambers' Go Global Trade Expo.  The program will bring a delegation of Black-owned South African businesses to Atlanta in 2025, connecting them with the Chamber's extensive network and U.S. buyers.

Through this agreement, export-ready businesses will build connections with Atlanta-based platforms to foster trade and investment between South Africa and the United States.

FAME Week Africa 2025: Atlanta Announced as the Feature Destination
On December 9 in Cape Town, Mayor Dickens announced Atlanta will be the Feature Destination for FAME Week Africa 2025, the continent's premier gathering for professionals in film, television, music, fashion, and animation.  This recognition highlights Atlanta's emergence as a global creative hub and its strong historic and Diaspora ties to Africa.

“Atlanta being recognized as the Feature Destination for FAME Week 2025 is an excellent fit,” said Mayor Dickens.  “Our city is uniquely poised to satisfy the growing demand in the United States for African content and support production innovations.”

This honor also grants Atlanta a dedicated pavilion and events at FAME Week 2025, scheduled to take place in Cape Town from September 1-6, 2025.

Business-to-Business Engagements in Johannesburg and Cape Town

  • Standard Bank Trade and Investment Seminar:  This December 5 event convened leading South African and Atlanta-based companies, government officials, and entrepreneurs to explore opportunities for investment and trade.
  • Wesgro Business Briefing: In Cape Town on December 9, the official tourism, trade and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape, Wesgro, hosted a vibrant networking event where Atlanta delegates met with South African exporters and investors, fostering connections that will drive future partnerships.

Empowering Entrepreneurs and Celebrating Culture

  • A tour of the Mamelodi Business Hub on December 6 showcased collaboration with Georgia State University students supporting township entrepreneurs.
  • Discussions with South African leaders and creatives at Freedom Park on December 6 emphasized the shared cultural and historical connections between South Africa and Atlanta.
  • Visits to Amazon's African headquarters and The Wine Arc on December 9 and 10, respectively, highlighted e-commerce opportunities and Black-owned wine brands breaking into international markets.
  • A tour of Nike's Shapa Center in Soweto on December 4 modeled how private investments in sports support community growth and development.

Strengthening Historic Ties

Atlanta Phambili builds on a historic relationship between South Africa and Atlanta, from collaboration between U.S. civil rights activists and members of the South African anti-Apartheid movement to Nelson Mandela's historic 1990 speech at Georgia Tech.  This trip further cements Atlanta as a gateway for South African businesses to access U.S. markets and strengthens South Africa's position as a premier investment destination for Atlanta's private sector.

“Our visit reflects a robust partnership that will continue to grow as we move forward together,” said Mayor Dickens. “The commitment of the South African government and its people has been vital in shaping this initiative.  I look forward to building on these foundations for years to come.”

Ambassador Brigety added “From trade and investment to culture, sports, and education, Atlanta and South Africa are charting a future defined by innovation, inclusion, and opportunity.  The future economic partnership between Atlanta and South Africa is built to last and poised for growth.”

A Shared Vision for the Future

The U.S. Embassy in South Africa and the City of Atlanta extend their gratitude to the South African government and all participating partners for making this visit a success.  Together, Atlanta and South Africa are moving forward—Phambili—toward an even brighter, shared future.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of U.S. Embassy & Consulates in South Africa.

Read moreAtlanta Mayor Andre Dickens Strengthens u.s. – SA Ties During Groundbreaking Official Visit

Police rescue kidnapped businessmen

Location: News

Police rescue kidnapped businessmen

Police have in the past week rescued two kidnapped businessmen, arrested seven kidnappers and seized firearms, cell phones and vehicles used in the commission of the crimes.

On Saturday, a Chinese businessman was hijacked and kidnapped in Springs, Ekurhuleni.

Within 24 hours, a multi-disciplinary team operationalised intelligence, which led them to the location of the kidnappers. 

The team intercepted the kidnappers' vehicle, an Audi A3, at an intersection in Lenasia and arrested two suspects on Sunday.

The team then proceeded to an address in Meriting, where they arrested one more kidnapper and rescued the businessman.

In an unrelated incident, on 1 December 2024, another businessman was hijacked and kidnapped in Wierdabrug, Tshwane.

The victim's vehicle was later recovered in the area of Heuweloord.

Intelligence led a multi-disciplinary team to recover the kidnappers' vehicle, a Jeep, which was left abandoned in a garage in Nellmapius, Tshwane.

The team followed up on a lead, which led them to an address in Mamelodi, where they arrested four suspects and rescued two kidnapped victims. Firearms, cell phones, a Jeep SRT8 and a Hyundai Getz were seized.

Investigations in both these cases are still ongoing.

"These operations would not have been successful without the assistance of other law enforcement agencies including private security," said the South African Police Service in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Tue, 12/10/2024 - 09:45

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PRASA committed to fostering a skilled workforce

Location: News

PRASA committed to fostering a skilled workforce

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has asserted that it remains committed to fostering a skilled and innovative workforce to drive the future of rail. 

As one of the strategies that it is implementing to attract a skilled workforce for the future of rail, the agency is engaging young learners, with the intention to empower and inspire the next generation to pursue careers in the rapidly evolving industry.

On Monday, the agency’s Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) Hishaam Emeran addressed about 70 learners from Mamelodi, Soshanguve, Lyttelton, Soweto, Tembisa, and Kempton Park at PRASA’s first ever career day held its headquarters in Johannesburg. 

READ | PRASA to expose learners to careers in the rail industry 

Emeran encouraged learners to consider a career in rail as the agency needs a new generation of leaders.

“PRASA is turning around, and we need a new generation of leaders. There is a future for you at PRASA, and the PRASA of the future will need new skills, new  innovation, and you are the generation that can drive that innovation,” Emeran said on Monday.

Emeran, who has an engineering background reaffirmed the agency’s commitment and aspirations to restore and revitalise passenger rail as the backbone of South Africa’s public transport.

During his address he provided an overview of what the agency does under its two primary mandates – providing transport services and generating additional revenue from its assets such as key stations. 

He also shared PRASA’s ongoing rail rebuilding milestones, including the rollout of world-class trains across the country and the development of student accommodation at Cape Town Station, which are positively impacting communities.

“Working for PRASA or a state-owned entity is a noble profession. You are changing the lives of millions of people. One day, you could be in my position, addressing learners like yourselves,” Emeran said.

PRASA’s Chief Engineer of Signals and Telecommunications Pabalelo Nkwe shared his personal journey and insights into the diverse career options within PRASA TECH.

“You can pursue a career in civil engineering to become a Perway Engineer with key focus on maintenance and engineering works for bridges; structures and railway tracks, mechanical engineering, electro-mechanical and mechatronics if you are interested in maintenance and engineering of the rolling stock/trains, or electrical engineering (Heavy Current) to become an Overhead Traction Equipment (OHTE) or substation engineering specialist or like me, pursue a career in Electrical Engineering (Light Current) and specialise in Railway Signalling and Telecommunications,” Nkwe said.

The event concluded with a trip to the Gibela manufacturing plant where PRASA’s new blue and white modern trains - Isitimela Sabantu - are manufactured. 

The Gibela team explained that it is manufacturing 600 trains for PRASA and 245 of these trains have been manufactured. Learners were given a tour of the facility and a first-hand look at the production process, sparking great excitement and interest. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 10/15/2024 - 14:48

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Read morePRASA committed to fostering a skilled workforce

Government activities for the week 14 – 18 October 2024

Location: News

Government activities for the week 14 – 18 October 2024

From 13 – 17 October, Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina participates in the 9th Africa Water Week and 7th Cairo Water Week. The event concludes on 17 October. 

From 13 – 14 October, the leadership of the North West Provincial Government, led by Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi, will hold a two-day EXCO Planning Lekgotla to identify the provincial government’s key priorities for the next five years.

On Monday, 14 October, the Minister of Energy and Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, briefs media on the implementation of the Energy Action Plan.

On Monday, 14 October, the Public Service Commission (PSC) briefs media on the PSC’s Quarterly Bulletin titled, ‘The Pulse of the Public Service for the period: 01 April to 30 June 2024’.

On Monday, 14 October, Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube and Deputy Minister Dr Reginah Mhaule, joined by North West Education MEC, Viola Motsumi, will host a media briefing following a Listening and Learning visit to the North West.

On Monday, 14 October, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) hosts a career day aimed at exposing about 70 learners from Mamelodi, Soshanguve, Soweto, Tembisa, and Kempton Park to diverse career paths within the agency and the broader rail industry.

On Monday, 14 October, the Department of Employment and Labour hosts a career and jobs fair in the North West province this week. The jobs fair will conclude on 16 October.

On Monday, 14 October, the Department of Employment and Labour hosts an Occupational Health and Safety conference with the construction industry. The conference will conclude on 15 October.

On Tuesday, 15 October, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, and Deputy Ministers Bernice Swarts and Narend Singh, will brief media on their 100 days in offices in Cape Town.

On Tuesday, 15 October, the Western Cape provincial government will conduct free inspections for vehicles of scholar transport operators in the Cape Town and Swartland areas at the Gene Louw Traffic College and Malmesbury Testing Centre from 08h30 to 15h00.

On Wednesday, 16 October, the Department of Employment and Labour launches the Occupational Health and Safety Prevention Accord and will unveil the OHS strategy.

On Wednesday, 16 October, Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC, Nonceba Kontsiwe, will launch the department’s R80 million cropping programme in Ngxakaxha village, Dutywa on World Food Day. – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Mon, 10/14/2024 - 13:30

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Read moreGovernment activities for the week 14 – 18 October 2024

PRASA to expose learners to careers in the rail industry

Location: News

PRASA to expose learners to careers in the rail industry

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) will today host a career day aimed at exposing about 70 learners from Mamelodi, Soshanguve, Soweto, Tembisa, and Kempton Park to diverse career paths within the agency and the broader rail industry.

“During the day, the group of learners will have the unique opportunity to get first-hand experience of the manufacturing process of the new world-class modern blue and white trains, known as Isitime Sabantu, at the state-of-the-art Gibela Manufacturing plant, and ignite their curiosity in the production of trains,” PRASA said of Monday’s career day.

The learners will also hear from industry professionals from Gibela, the Gautrain and the Transport Education Training Authority, who will share their personal career experiences and opportunities in the rail sector.

In addition, PRASA teams from Human Capital, PRASA TECH, and PRASA CRES (Corporate Real Estate Solutions) will be present to provide further career guidance.

The PRASA Career Day marks the launch of PRASA’s commitment to community development initiatives, aimed at reaching the communities it serves, and the start of many more similar initiatives nationally.

The event is a collaborative effort with partners such as the Gibela Rail Transport Consortium, Gautrain, Transport Education Training Authority (TETA) and the City of Joburg.

It comes at a time when PRASA is making significant strides in restoring the passenger rail network and services, offering a platform for aspiring youth to dream big and consider a future career in rail. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 10/14/2024 - 08:28

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Cabinet calls on South Africans to support Ronwen Williams

Location: News

Cabinet calls on South Africans to support Ronwen Williams

Cabinet calls on South Africans to show their support for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, who has been nominated as one of the 10 best goalkeepers in the world, at the Ballon d'Or awards for the Yachine Trophy.

South Africans are urged to vote by casting their votes on https://www.lequipe.fr/en/special/selection/ballon-dor-2024/section/the-yachine-trophy

Williams is the first South African player to be nominated for the Yachine Trophy at the Ballon d'Or awards. 

“The 68th edition of the awards ceremony will take place on 28 October 2024 in Parys. Until then, we can vote for Williams in both English and French,” Cabinet said in a statement.

Williams, who won the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award in the January/February 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, has unexpectedly jumped ahead in the polls, leading the pack by 69.6% thus far.

Ronza, as he is referred to with great affection, received nominations for one of the top 10 goalkeepers in the world due to his exceptional play at both the club and international levels.

The 32-year-old goalie will face off against some of the greatest players in the world, including Mike Maignan of AC Milan, Andre Lounine of Real Madrid and Emiliano Martinez of Argentina, who won the World Cup. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 10/10/2024 - 12:52

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Read moreCabinet calls on South Africans to support Ronwen Williams

Maile to visit Cemetery View informal settlement

Location: News

Maile to visit Cemetery View informal settlement

Gauteng's Acting MEC for Human Settlements Lebogang Maile is this morning expected to visit Cemetery View informal settlement following a fire that destroyed shacks in Pretoria East.

“MEC Maile will use the visit to outline government's interventions to assist those affected. More than 2000 shacks were engulfed by the fire. MEC Maile is undertaking this important visit to ensure the safety, security and comfort of those affected by this unfortunate situation,” said the Gauteng Provincial government on Monday.

The MEC will be joined by the City of Tshwane MMC for Human Settlements, councillor Ofentse Madzebatela.
This as the City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department responded to multiple shacks on fire in Woodlake Street in Pretorious Park on the morning of 21 September 2024.

“The multiple-shack fire was reported to the City of Tshwane Emergency Call Centre at about 04:07 am. The centre immediately dispatched multiple firefighting resources from Silverton Fire Station, Hazelwood Fire Station, Central Fire Station, Mamelodi Fire Station, Centurion Fire Station and Heuweloord Fire Station to the scene. These included two fire trucks, an industrial pumper, a mobile command unit, two rapid intervention units, a water carrier and a district commander’s unit,” said the city’s Emergency Services Department in a statement.

The City said that upon arrival firefighters reported that a large area in the informal settlement was on fire with multiple shacks well alight and many people standing outside.

Firefighters then started with firefighting operations and initiated evacuation procedures and the fire was extinguished at 5am.
About 814 shacks burned down and about 2600 people were affected by the fire.

“One male patient was treated on-site and transported to Steve Biko Academic Hospital for critical burn injuries. Another female patient with a critical medical condition was also treated on-site and transported to Mamelodi Hospital. A third patient sadly suffered fatal burn injuries. Gauteng Provincial Government Emergency Medical Services are managing all emergencies pertaining to patients in this regard,” said the city.

The cause of the fire had not been determined.

“The cause of the fire has not yet been determined and the scene is a declared as a hot zone and a crime scene.” 

The city urged residents to be cautious and to extinguish paraffin fires with sand or a fire extinguisher and to never overload electrical plugs, among others. -SAnews.gov.za 
 

Neo
Mon, 09/23/2024 - 10:31

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Read moreMaile to visit Cemetery View informal settlement

Local company sets sights on international markets 

Location: News

Local company sets sights on international markets 

A Mamelodi-based detergents company is determined to take full advantage of the Partnering in Business with Germany Programme and export their products to international markets. 

This was said by the Founder and Managing Director of TOSH Detergents, Lufuno Rasoesoe. 
She was speaking during the recent alumni event of the programme that was hosted by South Africa and Germany in Sandton.

According to Rasoesoe, participating in the Partnering in Business with Germany Programme has been of significant benefit to her Gauteng company.

In April, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Change signed a Joint Declaration on Cooperation to formalise a programme to train and mentor emerging exporters from South Africa to access the German market.

“Through the business-to-business meetings and visits to various manufacturing plants in Germany, I gained valuable insights into how we can improve our own manufacturing plant.

“The exposure to advanced processes and operational standards inspired the factory plans that we are currently developing, as well as the implementation of more efficient standard operating systems. This experience has given us a clearer vision of how to elevate our production capabilities and meet global standards,” Rasoesoe said.

She explained that after participating in the programme, her company was invited to participate in the Africa Start-up Connect Week in Berlin, Germany.

At that event, she met entrepreneurs from across the African continent and was exposed to a wealth of export opportunities within the continent.

“This has broadened my network and opened doors for potential collaborations and expansion into various African markets, bringing us closer to our goal of growing TOSH Detergents' presence internationally."

She added that her participation in the Partnering in Business with Germany Programme and the Rand Show Exhibition, both with the assistance of the dtic has impacted positively on her business. 

“Both experiences were incredibly valuable for my business. The Rand Show Exhibition provided us with great exposure to a wider audience, allowing us to showcase our products and build new connections.

“The Partnering in Business with Germany Programme offered insights into international markets, manufacturing best practices, and potential export opportunities. 

“These experiences have been instrumental in growing our brand and expanding our market reach,” Rasoesoe said.

TOSH Detergents was formed in March 2021 as a business initiative aimed at addressing the need for affordable, high-quality cleaning products in South Africa. 

The company was inspired by the desire to create a sustainable business that could provide essential household products while also empowering local communities. 

“TOSH Detergents does not only fill a gap in the market, but also promotes job creation and economic development, particularly in the previously disadvantaged areas,” she said. 

READ | SA-Germany to place trade and investment under the spotlight

The company currently employs 15 people, nine in the production area, and six as merchandisers and sales agents. 

TOSH Detergents products can be found at Shoprite, Checkers, Makro Online, Takealot, Zulzi and distributors in various provinces. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 15:12

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Read moreLocal company sets sights on international markets 

TT Waterproofing Offers Premier Solutions to Protect Properties From Water Damage

Location: MyPR

Pretoria, Gauteng – TT Waterproofing, a leading provider of roofing and waterproofing services, continues its commitment to protecting homes, businesses, and industrial properties from the damaging effects of moisture. With over nine years of industry experience, TT Waterproofing has established itself as a trusted name in Pretoria and beyond, delivering reliable waterproofing solutions that safeguard …

Read moreTT Waterproofing Offers Premier Solutions to Protect Properties From Water Damage

Gauteng police net over 900 suspects

Location: News

Gauteng police net over 900 suspects

Police in Gauteng have arrested over 900 suspects in the high-density Operation Shanela carried out under the leadership of the Gauteng Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni.

The arrested suspects were involved in a wide range of serious crimes, including murder, attempted murder, rape, business robbery, drug dealing, possession of drugs, assault, hijacking, and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

The collaborative effort involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Department of Home Affairs, Department of Correctional Services, Gauteng Traffic Police, Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department (TMPD), Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens, Community Policing Forum and private securities.

Commencing on Saturday, the weekend operation included strategic roadblocks and targeted raids focused on capturing wanted suspects.

During the operation, over 600 suspects wanted for various crimes were apprehended by detectives across the province, with 117 arrests related to gender-based violence.

The Provincial Commissioner took charge of the roadblock in Mamelodi East and West in the Tshwane District, where violent crimes such as murder, assault, hijacking and robbery are prevalent.

Parallel high-density operations were conducted across all districts, resulting in the apprehension of multiple suspects engaged in criminal activities.

In the Tshwane district, 43 suspects were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, 79 were illegal immigrants, two were involved in drug dealing, one was nabbed for employing illegal immigrants, one for dealing in illicit cigarettes and 10 unlicensed liquor outlets were closed for non-compliance with regulations.

The high-density operation will persist until a significant crime reduction is achieved in Gauteng.

The apprehended suspects will appear before various provincial Magistrates' Courts. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Edwin
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 10:16

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Read moreGauteng police net over 900 suspects

Officials attacked at Mamelodi court

Location: News

Officials attacked at Mamelodi court

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, has strongly condemned an attack on a prosecutor and a stenographer at the Mamelodi Magistrates’ Court yesterday.

According to the department, a suspect convicted of common robbery and damage to property allegedly attacked the two with a broken bottle immediately after their verdict was handed down.

“We will not tolerate such acts of violence in our courts. The suspect will be prosecuted for committing this crime. It is essential that our courts remain free to fulfil their constitutionally mandated role in administering justice without fear of harm. Any assault on court officials undermines the authority of the state and will not be tolerated,” Simelane said of Thursday’s incident.

The Mamelodi Magistrates’ Court is in Pretoria, Gauteng.

The department added that an investigation into the incident is being conducted.

“As the police are currently investigating the matter, the department is unable to disclose further details at this time. However, senior management from the department has visited the Mamelodi Court and all staff affected by the incident will receive trauma counselling support.

“In response to this incident, the Minister has directed the department to urgently conduct a comprehensive security and risk assessment, identify any potential lapses and implement immediate measures to address any gaps,” the department concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
 

NeoB
Fri, 08/02/2024 - 10:21

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Read moreOfficials attacked at Mamelodi court

DPWI Minister commits to expedite development of EduPark in Mamelodi

Location: News

DPWI Minister commits to expedite development of EduPark in Mamelodi

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has vowed to expedite the development of the EduPark community project in Mamelodi, east of Pretoria.

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has vowed to expedite the development of the EduPark community project in Mamelodi, east of Pretoria.

 

“The EduPark and Mamelodi Skate Club, which forms part of it, is an example of how we need to accelerate development in our communities using State assets,” Macpherson said.

“The EduPark development has the financial backing of international donors to develop sports, education and agricultural facilities, but has been waiting for the release of unused State land in Mamelodi for the development to take place.

“For us to use public assets for public good, we will need to increase the number of partnerships the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has with private and non-profit role players, such as EduPark, to utilise unutilised public land for the best interest of communities.

“When the State does not utilise or protect State land, it often becomes a dumping ground for rubbish or illicit activities, where the municipality is then accused of not taking action to clear and protect the property, when it is not their responsibility. 

“Going forward, we need to work together with municipalities to identify problematic properties and see how they can be used for public good,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 07/31/2024 - 10:40

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Read moreDPWI Minister commits to expedite development of EduPark in Mamelodi

Ayashisa ama-tekkie for growing Sneaker Cleanic

Location: News

Ayashisa ama-tekkie for growing Sneaker Cleanic

In South Africa the word tekkie is generally used to describe sneakers, but Lesego Gumede’s Sneaker Cleanic business has ignited a flame of hope for a better future to his employees who wash sneakers on a daily basis.

Sneaker Cleanic is a shoe-cleaning business that started as a casual conversation between colleagues.

“I realised that my [former] boss’s sneakers were clean when I was still working at a major clothing store. I questioned her about who cleaned them, and she told me that she paid someone R50 per pair to clean them. This made me decide to resign from my job and invest R2500 to launch Sneaker Cleanic,” he said.

What some may have considered a chore turned into a pot of gold for the 28-year-old who is determined to break new ground in the sneaker-cleaning business.

“All I saw was a hot business, ayashisa ama-tekkie,’’ he chuckled.

Shisa is an isiZulu word which loosely means something hot.

Gumede started the business in 2021 and now has two branches in Mabopane and Mamelodi, in Pretoria Gauteng.

With its steady growth, the business has created seven jobs. It has also received assistance from the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda) in the form of marketing and product testing.

Gumede said to move the business forward, he decided to create his brand of sneaker cleaning products which are used at Sneaker Cleanic.

“Our Sneaker Cleanic journey is turning out better than I imagined. Two of our core values are customer service and quality work delivered on time.”

He added that his customers appreciated the Sneaker Cleanic staff who can clean shoes without damaging them.

“Another value that we have is accountability. Customers know that if mistakes occur on their shoes, we can certainly fix them.”

Despite the success of Gumede’s business, he too has been met with challenges along his journey.

“Some of our major challenges include financial assistance and mentoring. There is also a stigma associated with the sneaker-cleaning industry that it is not a sustainable business,” he said.

While complex challenges remain in this relatively new industry, Gumede’s dream remains simple.

“[My dream] is for the business to outlive me.”

Gumede is determined to succeed and create jobs for his community.

Find more information on Sneaker Cleanic or to use their services visit @Sneaker_Cleanic on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Reach them via WhatsApp/phone on 068 299 5933.

Small business owners who are interested in receiving assistance from Seda should vist their local Seda office, contact 0860 103 703, logon to www.seda.org.za or send an email to info@seda.org.za.

*This story first appeared in Vukuzenzele

Janine
Wed, 07/24/2024 - 12:22

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Read moreAyashisa ama-tekkie for growing Sneaker Cleanic

TT Waterproofing Offers Expert Tips on Comprehensive Home Waterproofing

Location: MyPR

Gauteng, South Africa – TT Waterproofing, a well-established market leader in the installation of roofing and waterproofing systems, shares valuable insights on the importance of comprehensive waterproofing for homes and businesses. With over nine years of industry experience, TT Waterproofing has become synonymous with reliable roof repairs and waterproofing solutions across Gauteng, including Pretoria. Waterproofing: …

Read moreTT Waterproofing Offers Expert Tips on Comprehensive Home Waterproofing

Mpox cases rise to 16, death toll increase to three

Location: News

Mpox cases rise to 16, death toll increase to three

The Department of Health has confirmed that the country has recorded three more cases of Mpox and another death, as efforts to curb the spread of this infectious disease are ongoing in the affected communities.

This brings the total number of laboratory-confirmed cases of Mpox in South Africa to 16 since the outbreak in May 2024, while the death toll is now sitting at three.

According to the department, the latest cases involve a 40-year-old man from Ladysmith in KwaZulu-Natal, who presented with smallpox-like symptoms, including a rash all over his body.

He did not go to the hospital and passed away at home. His results came back positive for Mpox on Sunday, 23 June.

Two additional cases have been confirmed in Gauteng. One case involves a 43-year-old man, who was diagnosed on 22 June at a local private health facility in Johannesburg.

The second case is a 29-year-old male, who was diagnosed at a Mamelodi health facility on 21 June.

“They presented with symptoms indicative of disease and had no international travel history,” the department said.

Of the 16 infections, eight cases are from KwaZulu-Natal, seven cases are from Gauteng, and one case is from the Western Cape.

All individuals involved in the cases are male and aged between 23 and 43 years old.

The department, working with provinces and other stakeholders in the sector, has embarked on health education with funeral parlours on how to handle the human remains of suspected and confirmed cases. 

“The department would like to allay fears of possible travel restrictions or lockdowns due to the Mpox outbreak because the World Health Organisation has not recommended any travel restrictions. However, it is important for travellers from Mpox endemic countries to seek healthcare if they are ill and to alert health officials about their travel for clinical guidance.”

Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It can be transmitted to a person through contact with the virus from an animal, human, or materials contaminated with the virus. It can cause a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes, and a fever.

Citizens are urged to support all those who are showing symptoms to present at their nearest healthcare facilities immediately for screening and diagnosis, instead of self-diagnosis and using over-the-counter medication.

“Anyone can contract mpox regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation and race. Mpox is preventable and manageable, and treatment for both mild and severe cases is available. People at high risk include those living with chronic conditions such as HIV, TB and diabetes.” – SAnews.go.za

Gabisile
Wed, 06/26/2024 - 09:37

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Read moreMpox cases rise to 16, death toll increase to three

Tailored Waterproofing Solutions for the Industrial Sector: Ensuring Lasting Protection

Location: MyPR

Gauteng, South Africa – TT Waterproofing, a trusted leader in the roofing and waterproofing industry, announces its commitment to providing tailored solutions for the unique challenges faced by industrial clients. With over 9 years of experience serving the Gauteng region and beyond, TT Waterproofing continues to uphold its reputation for excellence and reliability. Industrial facilities …

Read moreTailored Waterproofing Solutions for the Industrial Sector: Ensuring Lasting Protection