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You are here: Home / Archives for Manufacturing

Manufacturing

15 April 2024

Efficiency and Reliability: Pumping and Wastewater Solutions

Location: MyPR

In the realm of industrial processes and municipal infrastructure, efficient handling of fluids and wastewater is essential for smooth operations and environmental sustainability. From transferring fluids to managing sewage, a reliable pumping system is the backbone of these applications. Let’s explore the diverse range of pumping solutions, from centrifugal pumps to sewage pumps, and understand …

Read moreEfficiency and Reliability: Pumping and Wastewater Solutions
14 April 2024

New Tiger Brands facility a sign of confidence in SA

Location: News

New Tiger Brands facility a sign of confidence in SA

Tiger Brands’ new R300 million state-of-the-art peanut butter manufacturing plant is a sign of confidence in the South African economy, said Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Nomalungelo Gina.

The Deputy Minister was speaking during the official launch of the company’s facility in Chamdor, Krugersdorp in Gauteng.

In a statement on Friday, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) said the plant is located on more than 8000 square meters of land within Mogale City, with 62 full time employees. 

“The company says up to 70% of the peanuts used in the production process are procured locally and the remaining 30% from markets outside South African due to local farmers not being able to meet the actual need,” said the dtic.

Gina also commended Tiger Brands for its commitment to the economic transformation agenda and growing Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMME) through Enterprise Supplier Development (ESD).

“As government, we insist on this policy direction because we know that SMMEs contribute 34% to the national GDP [gross domestic product]. As the country, we are under pressure to maximise employment in this country as we are pursuing [the] re-industrialisation of the economy. SMMEs will remain an important aspect of growing our economic base. Big corporates have an obligation to use the ESD model effectively through empowerment measures such as ESD mechanisms,” she said. 

Gina further urged Tiger Brands and South African based companies to fully utilise the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCTA) to ensure their own advancement and those of the South African and African economies.

The African Continental Free Trade Area creates the world’s largest free trade area by number of countries, and has the potential to bring transformative change and tremendous opportunities to African economies and businesses. -SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Sun, 04/14/2024 - 15:56

248 views
Read moreNew Tiger Brands facility a sign of confidence in SA
11 April 2024

Massification of skills development and job creation programmes to combat unemployment

Location: News

Massification of skills development and job creation programmes to combat unemployment

By Minister Thulas Nxesi

I believe that we can all agree that, at the end of the day, a decisive reduction in the unacceptably high level of unemployment is dependent on higher economic growth resulting in more jobs. This process is led by business investing in the private sector with resultant economic development and rising employment.

Nonetheless, as the President has argued, government as the largest employer in the country and a large-scale procurer of goods and services, has a major role to play both to create an environment conducive to investment, growth and development, but also to directly mitigate the impact of unemployment through social protection measures, demand-led training, targeted job creation and preservation.

To this end government, has strived to strengthen and expand its programmes for skills development and job creation, particularly in respect of the youth, seeking to mobilise and coordinate resources across government. In so doing, government has also sought to deepen and increase the areas of cooperation with the private sector. Initially focused on the strategic areas of energy security, port and inland logistics, and crime and corruption, cooperation has been expanded to include issues of skills and employment.

Which brings us to the expanded roll-out of government jobs and skills projects. First, I need to flag that this orientation and vision has a very long pedigree. Indeed, it is captured in the National Development Plan 2030 adopted in 2011. The earlier example of the Expanded Public Works Programme has been in existence for over two decades, and is utilised by local governments of all political persuasions.

So the present roll out of UIF Labour Activation Programmes (LAP) which started on April 6th in Gauteng – in tandem with the provincial Nasi Ispani Project - is part of this long tradition, expanded now to pool resources across departments and provinces, and in partnership with the private sector.

Following the 2019 elections, the mandate of the old Labour Department was expanded to become the Department of Employment and Labour. The reconfiguring of the Department to reflect the mandate has been taking place ever since. Part of this process is to leverage the existing resources of the Department for job creation and preservation. The Labour Department had long been involved in skills training of the unemployed. One of the things we did after 2019 was to re-orientate training towards in-demand and scarce skills with the guarantee of a job at the end of the programme, replacing the previous training for training’s sake mentality. Another critical part of the reconfiguration of the Department was to undertake a structural architecture review of the funds – the UIF and Compensation Fund – carried out by an independent analyst, and with the express purpose of greatly strengthening client service and ensuring necessary financial controls, systems, governance, accountability, risk and compliance mechanisms are in place.

I need to say more about the central role of the UIF in the work of the Department. The UIF is best known for paying out unemployment and maternity benefits, drawing on the contributions of employers and employees, but, in fact the UIF Act gives it a much larger mandate to mitigate unemployment, and includes funding:

  • Job preservation in the form of the temporary employer/employee relief scheme (TERS) – administered by the CCMA enabling distressed companies to continue to pay their employees, and the business turnaround and recovery programme run by Productivity South Africa;
  • training of the unemployed for employment (now anchored on a demand-led approach, with jobs at the end of it);

And job creation through:

  • supporting enterprise development and entrepreneurship; and
  • economic growth and job creation through investment of the reserves of UIF and the CF.

It was in furtherance of this mandate that the UIF established the LAP, where these kind of programmes have been running since before 2019, and will continue after the 2024 election. (The bizarre claim that the current LAP projects are a ‘rip off’ of the irregular Thuja proposal is historically inaccurate.) The decision of government to ‘massify skills development and job creation’ in response to persistent high levels of unemployment and sluggish growth utilises the LAP platform – expanded to pool resources across departments and entities, and to partner with the private sector. The funding model for the current expanded LAP provides a sliding scale of funding support for programmes with 70% of partners contributing, and a maximum 30% would being non-contributors (i.e. receiving 100% UIF/LAP funding), together with projects across government departments and entities on a rand-for-rand funding basis, for example including working with the IDC and the Department of Basic Education to recruit and pay salaries for Teacher Assistants designed to employ 200,000 unemployed graduates (part of the Presidential Youth Employment Stimulus programme).

The current expanded LAP ‘Training for Employment and Entrepreneurship’ programme sets ambitious targets: 2 million opportunities over three years, consisting of jobs preserved and created; demand-led skills training and entrepreneurial opportunities. Currently, 333 projects have been recommended for implementation across every province, with planned some 704,000 beneficiaries. Some 55,000 opportunities were announced for Gauteng on 6th April with the launch of the Nasi Ispani Project, supported and jointly funded by the LAP across 24 sectors: Agriculture, Services, IT, Construction, Engineering, Wholesale and retail, safety and security, hospitality, social services, textile, transport, furniture manufacturing; education, energy, food and beverage, health and wellness, aviation, insurance, jewellery, hygiene, arts and culture, and financial sector. The partnering with the Gauteng provincial government seeks to ensure that government maximises the impact of its spending by pooling resources and eliminating duplication.

I also need to flag that the LAP projects have been – or still are to be - subject to meticulous quality assurance processes to ensure:

  • they are compliant – with policy and legislation;
  • all necessary controls are in place;
  • there is capacity and necessary resources in place,
  • and that these programmes produce real outcomes in terms of jobs and entrepreneurial prospects.

Labour activation programmes are not a silver bullet to end the challenge of unemployment, but they are a viable force-multiplier that can be used together with other initiatives and interventions as part of a response to mitigate unemployment. 

The sectors and industries that will contribute significantly to the creation of these opportunities include economically growing and in-demand sectors such as agriculture, ICT, construction, engineering, manufacturing, education, transport and mining. 

An initial amount of R15 billion has been budgeted for the expanded LAP roll-out, eventually rising to R23.8 billion funding permitting. Opportunities will run between 12 and 36 months. The money invested in the plan will be recouped by the UIF through contributions and revenue generated from investments, as has been in the past sustainability model of the Fund.

There is this saying that: “the proof is in the pudding.” The UIF has proven that it is capable of taking strategic measures when required – such as the Covid-TERS benefits – distributing R64 billion to 5 million laid off workers and their families during the pandemic – whilst remaining financially sound.

The official national launch of the expanded LAP programme takes place in KZN on 16th April with a progressive roll-out of projects province by province, district by district culminating in the Northern Cape on the 9th May to coincide with the Presidential Imbizo in Kimberly.

Details of other launches and the impact to be derived from these projects will be communicated on an ongoing basis. This demonstrates our serious commitment to creating opportunities for our people, and to embed these processes and programmes into the future.

*Thulas Nxesi is the Minister of Employment and Labour.*

Neo
Thu, 04/11/2024 - 11:26

350 views
Read moreMassification of skills development and job creation programmes to combat unemployment
10 April 2024

RS Imports’ Office Chairs Collection

Location: MyPR

A comfortable and ergonomic office chair is essential for maintaining productivity and well-being during long hours of work. At RS Imports, we understand the importance of having quality seating options in the workplace, which is why we offer a diverse range of office chairs to suit every need and budget. Let’s explore the selection available …

Read moreRS Imports’ Office Chairs Collection
10 April 2024

Explore RS Imports’ Blender Collection

Location: MyPR

In the realm of culinary creativity, blenders play a vital role in transforming ingredients into delectable delights. Whether you’re whipping up smoothies, soups, sauces, or dips, having the right blender can make all the difference in achieving the perfect consistency and flavour. At RS Imports, we understand the importance of quality blenders in the kitchen, …

Read moreExplore RS Imports’ Blender Collection
10 April 2024

Unlocking Malawi’s Trade Barriers Through One-Stop Border Posts

Location: News

The World Bank Group
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Malawi's economy suffers from a lack of investment and high trade costs due to poor logistics and infrastructure; Clearing goods at the Malawi-Dedza border post with Mozambique previously took an average of three days; One-Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) reduce border waiting times and the cost of cross-border transactions.

The Dedza border post, situated between Malawi and Mozambique, is a busy place. On average, more than 80 trucks are cleared daily, carrying shop merchandise from South Africa to Malawi including fertilizers for Malawi's agriculture sector.

For the past few years, before the construction of the new One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) facility, it took about 24 to 36 hours to clear a truck carrying items such as wheat, fertilizers, groceries, and raw materials for Malawi's manufacturing industry. Drivers and clearing agents had to dash from one office to another between the two countries to clear the goods. Malawian traders traveling to and from South Africa through the Dedza–Mozambique border had difficulty locating the appropriate offices to present the required paperwork. In addition, the lack of parking facilities meant that the road leading to the border post was always congested, as trucks scrambled for space to park while waiting to be cleared.

Establishing One-Stop Border Posts

In 2015, the Government of Malawi embarked on an ambitious program to construct border posts in Dedza and Mwanza (both bordering Mozambique) and Songwe (bordering Tanzania), set up OSBPs with these neighboring countries, and establish the National Single Window (NSW). The NSW is an electronic platform system connecting international trade and transport stakeholders to fulfill all imports, exports, and transit border control procedures. World Bank support of $91.7 million was provided through the Southern Africa Trade and Transport Facilitation Project. The objective was to reduce the cost of cross-border transactions by supporting the modernization, simplification, and harmonization of the trade and transit procedures and policies.

The Dedza One-Stop Border Post, which was completed in 2023, boasts two examination bays for goods, parking spots for 100 freight trucks, and a modern passenger terminal.

“We now take less than half a day to process all the paperwork to clear the goods that we have carried, which is far less than the minimum of three days that we used to spend here,” says Flatella Makwakwa, a truck driver who has been using the Dedza border for more than three years. He also acknowledges the benefits of the new system when it comes to facilitating the passing of trucks and making life more comfortable for the users.

The new office infrastructure has made the process of clearing goods easier for the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA), various other border officers, and users. The OSBP concept requires border officers from adjacent countries to be hosted in the same building. “It now feels good to go to work as the environment looks spacious and comfortable and we are looking forward to hosting our Mozambique counterparts very soon,” says Lucy Chikhawo, the MRA Station Manager for the Dedza border post which hosts more than a hundred government officers—including those from the Malawi Bureau of Standards, Immigration, Police, Agriculture and Health.

Traders also have access to better sanitation facilities as they wait for their goods to be cleared.

“From the feedback we have received so far about the Dedza OSBP, we feel encouraged to support the government in fast-tracking the completion of the other two border posts at Mwanza and Songwe in Karonga. Our main goal is to support initiatives that reduce time to clear passengers and goods, as any impediments are costly to the economy of the country,” says Chikondi Nsusa, Senior Transport Specialist at the World Bank Malawi Country Office, who is also the Task Team Leader for the project.

Improving Malawi's Trade, Logistics, and Infrastructure

The latest Malawi Country Economic Memorandum report highlights that Malawi's economy suffers from a lack of investment and high trade costs. Key reasons include poor logistics and infrastructure, compounded by being a small and landlocked country, as well as other non-tariff barriers at the borders.

According to the document, “the presence of non-tariff barriers at the border and in neighboring transit countries such as Mozambique, Tanzania, and Zambia add to the costs of trade for Malawian exporters and importers and there is lack of coordination between Malawi and its neighbors to address this issue that likely reduces both the number of firms exporting and the total value of exported goods.” In this context, establishing more OSBPs is a big step in the right direction.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.

Read moreUnlocking Malawi’s Trade Barriers Through One-Stop Border Posts
9 April 2024

Trailer Manufacturer Powering Ahead with Solar

Location: MyPR

Solar power supplied 67% of all electricity used in February this year at three of leading South African truck body and trailer building company, Serco’s factories and offices in South Africa. And Serco’s goal is to push that figure up to 75% following further investment to raise the ratio even higher in the medium to …

Read moreTrailer Manufacturer Powering Ahead with Solar
8 April 2024

Exploring the Realm of Electrical Distribution Board Manufacturers

Location: MyPR

Introduction The manufacturing of electrical distribution boards is a critical aspect of the electrical industry. These boards are essential in managing the distribution of electrical power in both residential and commercial settings. Innovation in Design Manufacturers in this sector are constantly innovating to meet diverse needs. From compact designs for small spaces to large, complex …

Read moreExploring the Realm of Electrical Distribution Board Manufacturers
8 April 2024

Discovering South Africa’s Food Manufacturing Sector

Location: MyPR

South Africa boasts a thriving food manufacturing industry that plays a crucial role in supplying the nation with a wide variety of food products. From juice powders to milk powder, soups to gravy, and an array of other items, this sector is diverse and essential to meet the dietary needs of the population. In this …

Read moreDiscovering South Africa’s Food Manufacturing Sector
7 April 2024

FAW Trucks South Africa Supports Community Outreach At 15Th Annual Trucker’s Function

Location: MyPR

Vredendal, South Africa – 28 February 2024: FAW Trucks South Africa, in partnership with FAW Paarl – MyRide Commercial, proudly participated in the 15th Annual Truckers Function held in Vredendal on 22 February 2024. The event, which has been a staple in the transport industry for the past 15 years, aimed to raise funds for …

Read moreFAW Trucks South Africa Supports Community Outreach At 15Th Annual Trucker’s Function
7 April 2024

Navigating the World of Specialized Pumps

Location: MyPR

In various sectors, pumps play a pivotal role in facilitating the movement of liquids and gases, driving critical processes, and ensuring efficiency and productivity. From irrigating vast agricultural fields to processing food, extracting minerals, managing municipal water systems, supporting industrial operations, and enabling refrigeration, specialized pumps are at the heart of vital systems. This blog …

Read moreNavigating the World of Specialized Pumps
5 April 2024

Nxesi launches skills training programme to assist unemployed citizens

Location: News

Nxesi launches skills training programme to assist unemployed citizens

Employment and Labour Minister, Thulas Nxesi, has launched a skills training and entrepreneurship programme designed to benefit the youth and the unemployed in the country. 

The programme will afford Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) beneficiaries and unemployed youth with an opportunity to be integrated into the labour market or start their own businesses.

Nxesi announced the launch of the Unemployment Insurance Fund Labour Activation Programme (LAP) during a media briefing held in Pretoria on Thursday.

LAP was established within the UIF to enhance the department’s mandate through enhancing the employability of the unemployed through training; enable entrepreneurship through enterprise development; preserve jobs through the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) and Productivity SA, and collaborate across government departments and entities to massify jobs, skills training and enterprise creation.

Nxesi said an amount of R23.8 billion will be allocated to implement this plan. 

“Opportunities will run between 12 and 36 months. The money invested in the plan will be recouped by the UIF through contributions and revenue generated from investments, as has been the sustainability model of the fund.

“The spread of our implementation nationally will be across every province, with 333 recommended projects to provide seven training, small enterprise support and employment opportunities to 704 000 unemployed people,” Nxesi explained.

Nxesi said the department is collaborating across with other government departments and entities to massify jobs.

“As early as next week, we will be talking about a joint programme with the Department of Higher Education and Training, and Small Business, which is also a collaboration with the programme we are talking about today,” Nxesi said. 

The Minister assured that the projects have all been subjected to meticulous quality assurance processes to ensure that they are compliant with the policy and legislation. 

“There are necessary controls in place, there is capacity and necessary resources in place, and these programmes produce the real outcomes in terms of the jobs and at a perineural scheme or prospect. 

“Employability interventions are delivered through contracts with the condition that they guaranteed jobs for beneficiaries with a minimum period of employment of one year post intervention,” Nxesi said.

Nxesi said he hopes the companies and industries will contribute significantly to the sectors, including agriculture, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), construction, engineering, manufacturing, education, transport, and mining.

The first roll-out of LAP projects will be launched in Gauteng with the provincial government on 6 April 2024, followed by KwaZulu-Natal on 16 April, Western Cape 17 April, Eastern Cape 19 April, Free State 22 April, North West 23 April, and Mpumalanga on 24 April 2024.

The launch will also move to Limpopo on 30 April, with the last roll-out to take place in the Northern Cape on 9 May 2024.

The programme will be offered to people across all ages. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 04/05/2024 - 09:54

238 views
Read moreNxesi launches skills training programme to assist unemployed citizens
4 April 2024

Gauteng SMMEs Offered Vital Growth Opportunity through Exporter Competitiveness Programme

Location: MyPR

Gauteng’s Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are receiving vital support to boost their businesses through a transformative six-month Exporter Competitiveness Programme (ECP) initiative introduced by the government, aimed at propelling them forward. SMMEs that have been operational for a minimum of two years within the manufacturing, agriculture, and agro-processing sectors, are urged to seize …

Read moreGauteng SMMEs Offered Vital Growth Opportunity through Exporter Competitiveness Programme
4 April 2024

Cultivating the market for green flooring solutions

Location: MyPR

Mathe Group’s Hammarsdale facility, which recycles approximately 1 000 radial truck tyres per day to produce 45 tons of rubber crumb, is a pivotal export hub. Although many of its products are distributed internationally, the innovative rubber flooring solutions which helped establish this growing company in the first place, continue to highlight its global reach …

Read moreCultivating the market for green flooring solutions
4 April 2024

Discover What Major National Customers Want From Suppliers

Location: MyPR

Join a Free Workshop for SMEs in the CTFL Sector The journey for most South African Small, Medium Enterprises (SMEs) is fraught with challenges, with a staggering 75% failure rate* – one of the highest in the world. Even the most promising ventures struggle to survive beyond their first five years. Kyle Ballard, Head of …

Read moreDiscover What Major National Customers Want From Suppliers
2 April 2024

President Ramaphosa to unveil KZN terminal and Tetra Pak Manufacturing plant

Location: News

President Ramaphosa to unveil KZN terminal and Tetra Pak Manufacturing plant

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to officially open the Newlyn PX Terminal and the Tetra Pak Manufacturing plant in KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday as part of South Africa’s investment drive.

These entities made pledges through the South African Investment Conference, an initiative led by President Ramaphosa with the ambitious goal of attracting R1.2 trillion in investments over five years.

“The multi modal rail terminal in Bayhead next to the port of Durban pledged R2 billion for the development of the largest multi modal rail terminal in Africa and has completed the last phase of the development exceeding the initial pledge by R2.6 billion.

“The entity has over the last 26 years demonstrated its commitment as well as significant financial, technical and human resource development in developing transformational logistics infrastructure along the country’s major trade corridors,” the Presidency said in a statement.

Furthermore, the terminal is considered a leading development for logistics.

“The terminal has also been recognised as [a] flagship development expanding the logistics capacity of the country as well as enhancing global competitiveness as part of the critical NATCOR trade corridor linking Johannesburg to the port of Durban.

“The development will further facilitate an integrated ecosystem yielding benefits to freight owners, Transnet and logistics service providers.  This will also accelerate government’s objective of migrating of cargo from road to rail,” the statement read.

The Presidency highlighted that in 2022, the Tetra Pak Group invested more than R500 million in the manufacturing plant in KwaZulu-Natal. Tetra Pak is the world’s leading food processing and packaging company with a presence in more than 155 countries.

“Post the investment, the manufacturing plant is now the only state-of-the-art facility in Africa producing carton asceptic packaging for the domestic market and Africa export; meeting standards of sustainability; supporting a circular economy and propelling industrial growth.

“These investments will form a critical industrial base for South Africa’s recent commencement of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), for export opportunities,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 04/02/2024 - 09:19

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Read morePresident Ramaphosa to unveil KZN terminal and Tetra Pak Manufacturing plant
27 March 2024

Smart Home Forecast: What’s in store for 2024?

Location: Business
CBI-electric: low voltage

Nowadays, the phrase ‘home is where the tech is' defines modern living, as South Africans increasingly (https://apo-opa.co/3TSowVR) adopt smart home innovations. These advancements are continuing to adapt and evolve in their capabilities which not only improve convenience and security but can also decrease energy consumption, contributing to cost savings.

This is according to Dr Andrew Dickson, Engineering Executive at CBI-electric: low voltage (www.CBI-LowVoltage.co.za/), who says that, in 2024, homes will become even more high-tech in terms of the efficiency, functionality, and personalised living experiences they provide. “We may still be a few years away from homes resembling those dreamed up by sci-fi movies, but we are already heading in the direction of smart technology becoming less of a luxury and more of a staple in modern homes.”

Below, he shares four trends that will help make South African homes smarter this year:

  1. Improved Internet Speed: In the early part of the year, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) will hold another auction (https://apo-opa.co/43wkAO1) for radio frequencies including 5G. What the rollout of more 5G will mean for smart homes is lightning-fast internet speeds, instantaneous communication between devices, and the ability to connect even more gadgets within a smart home ecosystem for seamless integration and control. It will also allow for greater stability and reliability which will prove particularly useful when it comes to monitoring and controlling critical systems remotely in real time. Ultimately, the rollout of 5G is poised to elevate the capabilities of smart home technologies, making them even more intelligent and efficient.

In addition, WiFi-7 is set to roll out in the country this year which will improve internet connectivity to devices in the home, extend range and promises to deliver nearly five times the speed of Wi-Fi 6. This, however, is also reliant on the release of more spectrum and regulatory approvals.

  1. Incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI): Leveraging its data analysis and processing capabilities, AI discerns user patterns, utilising these insights to anticipate and implement homeowners' future decisions and choices. By integrating AI into smart home devices, these products can learn and adapt to a user's habits and preferences, optimising efficiency, intuitiveness, and responsiveness. Consequently, homes become attuned to the unique needs and preferences of their inhabitants. A practical illustration of this is a smart lighting system employing AI to automatically adjust the lighting throughout the entire home in accordance with the time of day or the user's activities. AI will also assist homeowners who may not be tech-savvy by offering them the opportunity to implement advanced automation with their smart devices without the need for manual programming.

In the future, generative AI will make smart homes even smarter. Soon, these tools will not only help to identify appliances that require preventative maintenance but also set up appointments with service providers for their upkeep based on the homeowner's schedule and availability.

  1. Smarter security: Technological innovations are becoming increasingly incorporated into various smart home security systems. Take, for example, the evolution of smart locks, which are now activatable through various interfaces such as fingerprint recognition, PIN codes, voice recognition, and phone apps. Blockchain is also set to play a crucial role in fortifying smart home security systems, rendering them more resilient and resistant to potential hackers. Additionally, AI has the potential to analyse residents' behavioural patterns, promptly notifying homeowners and their security companies if there are deviations or unusual activities within the premises.
  1. Energy optimisation: Anticipating a 20,200MW (https://apo-opa.co/43CvWQp) energy shortfall in 2024, homeowners are turning to smart home technologies like those in the CBI Astute Range (https://apo-opa.co/43yQJEu) of products to monitor and manage energy consumption. These technologies collect and analyse vast amounts of data, helping users identify areas for improvement. Plus, automation can assist them in adjusting their usage, even when they're not at home.

Additionally, as more South Africans embrace rooftop solar (https://apo-opa.co/3IUS6DT), smart technology enables the effortless integration of renewable energy sources to combat the impacts of load shedding while also ensuring that the power produced is used effectively and efficiently.

“In 2024, smart homes will become sanctuaries of innovation, enriching the lives of South Africans and heralding a future where homes understand, adapt and even pre-empt the unique needs of their residents," concludes Dr Dickson.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CBI-electric: low voltage.

For more information, go to https://CBI-LowVoltage.co.za or follow CBI-electric: low voltage on Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3vvHgRW), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/43Cr9hY), LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/4atY8Y6), X (https://apo-opa.co/4aw8czw), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/3VBbqxv) or YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3IWb2Ce).

About CBI-electric: low voltage:

  • Established in 1949, CBI-electric: low voltage is a manufacturer and supplier of quality low voltage electrical distribution, protection, and control equipment. Previously known as Circuit Breaker Industries or CBI, the company specialises in the design, development, and manufacturing of circuit breakers, residential current devices, surge protection, wiring accessories, and metering products.
  • Head quartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, the company is a subsidiary of renowned JSE listed industrial group Reunert (https://www.Reunert.co.za/), with international operations across Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and USA.
  • CBI-electric: low voltage can be found in almost every home and has firmly become a market leader over the last 72 years while supplying products to authorities, utilities, manufacturers, commercial property developers, industrial, mining, telecommunications, and general power distribution applications.
  • In 2021, the brand launched its smart IoT (internet-of-things) home automation range, called the Astute Range.
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Read moreSmart Home Forecast: What’s in store for 2024?
26 March 2024

Pay your customs tax!

Location: News

Pay your customs tax!

Taxpayers have been reminded to settle their tax and customs payments as well as their tax and customs debt to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) by or on Thursday this week.

“Tax payments can be made via a bank, electronic funds transfer (EFT), via eFiling or the SARS MobiApp Customs payments can also be made at any SARS customs office.

“It is important that taxpayers and traders perform the payment transaction during business hours to authorise their banking institutions to release the payment to SARS - a required step if the payment is made via eFiling and the MobiApp.

“Balance amount enquiries may be made by requesting a statement of account on eFiling or the SARS MobiApp or by SMS to SARS on 47277,” the revenue service said in a statement.

Employment statistics

Meanwhile, Statistics South Africa’s latest Quarterly Employment Statistics shows a decrease in total employment during the last quarter of 2023.

Despite this, year-on-year December 2022 to December 2023, total employment has increased.

“[According] to the report total employment decreased by 194 000 or -1.8% quarter-on-quarter, from 10 899 000 in September 2023 to 10 705 000 in December 2023. This was due to decreases in the following industries: community services -214 000 or -6.8%, construction -19 000 or -3.1%, business services -12 000 or -0.5%, manufacturing -7 000 or -0.5%, and mining -1 000 or -0.2%. However, there were increases in the following industries: trade 56 000 or 2.4%, transport 2 000 or 0.4% and electricity 1 000 or 1.6%.

“Total employment increased by 98 000 or 0.9% year-on-year between December 2022 and December 2023,” the institution said.

Fulltime employment showed an increase of some 12 000 jobs between December 2022 and December 2023 while part-time employment increased by 86 000 during the same period.

On a quarter to quarter basis, however, downturns were experienced.

“Full-time employment decreased by 5 000 or -0.1% quarter-on-quarter, from 9 498 000 in September 2023 to 9 493 000 in December 2023. This was due to decreases in the following industries: construction -13 000 or -2.4%, manufacturing -12 000 or -1.0%, community services -11 000 or -0.5%, business services -3 000 or -0.1%, and mining -1 000 or -0.2%. However, there were increases in the following industries: trade 31 000 or 1.5%, transport 3 000 or 0.7%, and electricity 1 000 or 1.6%.

“Part-time employment decreased by 189 000 or -13.5% quarter-on-quarter, from 1 401 000 in September 2023 to 1 212 000 in December 2023. This was due to decreases in the following industries: community services -203 000 or -27.2%, business services -9 000 or -3.8%, construction -6 000 or -7.8%, transport -1 000 or 5.3%. Electricity industry reported no change. However, there were increases in the following industries: trade 25 000 or 10.4%, and manufacturing 5 000 or 6%,” Stats SA said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 03/26/2024 - 14:23

302 views
Read morePay your customs tax!
25 March 2024

Dtic hosts annual Furniture Design Competition Awards

Location: News

Dtic hosts annual Furniture Design Competition Awards

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) is today hosting the annual Furniture Design Competition Awards at the Sandton Convention Centre.

The Furniture Design Competition aims to foster innovation and excellence in South African furniture design and propel careers of young designers.

The competition creates a platform for the development of new, competitive furniture products. It targets design students registered at South African institutions.

This year’s competition centres around the theme: "Celebrating the Outdoors”, encouraging contestants to consider ergonomics, functionality, affordability, and sustainability in their design creations.

Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina says this year’s ceremony will mark a decade of recognising and nurturing design talent within the South African furniture sector and that the awards have played a pivotal role in fostering innovation and excellence in furniture design.

“We are confident and are looking forward to witnessing designs that will not only be aesthetically pleasing but also commercially viable, contributing to the growth of the industry and the expansion of our export market.

“This competition not only propels the careers of young designers, but also serves as a launchpad for the development of new products that contribute to the competitiveness of the South African furniture industry,” she said in a statement on Monday.

Gina said that the South African furniture industry remains an important sector in the economy and is considered to have a huge potential to create jobs and to contribute to increasing exports and the development of small, medium and micro enterprises.

“The design competition is aimed at contributing to the development of the design skills in the furniture sector and it is used as a creative instrument to promote product differentiation and new development.

“This competition also aligns with the recently developed Furniture Industry Masterplan, which outlines a strategic roadmap for the growth and development of the industry,” Gina said.

The ceremony will showcase the work of five design students registered in South African academic institutions and local emerging or established furniture manufacturing companies.

Each finalist responded to the competition's challenges, focusing on designs that prioritise local materials, repurposed elements, and promote a sustainable approach to outdoor furniture.

The event will culminate in the announcement of the category winners, marking a significant milestone in their design journeys. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 03/25/2024 - 08:57

53 views
Read moreDtic hosts annual Furniture Design Competition Awards
20 March 2024

Black industrialists are job creators, wealth generators and agents of change

Location: News

Black industrialists are job creators, wealth generators and agents of change

Despite facing immense challenges, black industrialists have persevered, defying the odds and breaking barriers to create thriving businesses and contribute significantly to the nation's economic development.

“Today, we celebrate the power of empowerment. Empowerment that has not been handed out as charity but earned through hard work, resilience and unwavering determination.

“Black industrialists are not just job creators and wealth generators, they are agents of change, driving social and economic transformation in our communities,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Wednesday.

He said at the heart of every successful industrialist lies a spirit of innovation and creativity.

“Whether it is in technology, manufacturing, agriculture or services, they have shown that excellence knows no bounds and that Africa is a continent brimming with untapped potential and ingenuity.

“None of this progress would have been possible without the spirit of collaboration and partnership,” the President said, addressing the Black Industrialists and Exporters Conference at the Sandton Convention Centre.

President Ramaphosa said it was a good moment for the country to reflect on the empowerment journey which is a central part of the changes that have taken place over the last three decades.

“We have about 1 000 black industrialists present here today. This is a living testimony to the changes that have taken place in the past 30 years, and indeed, over the past five years,” President Ramaphosa said.

He said empowerment is a historical imperative to provide redress to black South Africans who were discriminated against and excluded under the apartheid regime.

“Even after the advent of democracy, and the removal of discriminatory laws, the racial features of privilege and disadvantage remained,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said underdevelopment in townships and bantustans limited access to economic opportunities.

“Bantu education left several generations without the skills needed to improve their economic situation.

“Much has changed in our country, but this iniquitous inheritance continues to diminish the economic prospects of many black and women South Africans. It is this inheritance that we are determined to overcome,” he said.

The President said for far too long, the country's economic landscape was marked by inequality, exclusion and systemic barriers that hindered the progress of aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those from black communities.

The conference takes place on the eve of the 20th anniversary of the implementation of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act (B-BBEE Act).

It has shone the spotlight on the achievements, successes, opportunities and strides made by the Black Industrialists Programme since its inception in 2016.

This years’ conference features 53 large companies or procurers making pledges to buy from the growing class of black industrialists.

The conference will culminate with an awards ceremony aimed at recognising the contribution of Black Industrialists towards driving economic growth, social transformation and in advancing inclusive entrepreneurship in the South African economy.

More than 200 entries have been received and ten awards will be announced at the conference. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 03/20/2024 - 15:14

159 views
Read moreBlack industrialists are job creators, wealth generators and agents of change
19 March 2024

Less talk, more action! South African creatives are designing for social impact

Location: MyPR

Design is a powerful tool for change. As part of reshaping the industry’s paradigms, this year’s theme for Decorex Africa, the continent’s leading decor and design showcase, is Designing for Impact. It marks a commitment to thinking beyond traditional boundaries and identifying the sweet spot that lies at the intersection of creativity, commercial viability and …

Read moreLess talk, more action! South African creatives are designing for social impact
15 March 2024

3 Reasons Why the KZN South Coast is the Destination for Renewable Energy Investment

Location: MyPR

“By harnessing the potential of renewable energy, Africa’s young, dynamically growing economies can ensure energy supply is generated in line with international climate goals.” – The Renewable Energy Transition in Africa The climate crisis and increasing demand for energy across the continent are supporting the shift towards renewable energy production. Solar power generation, in particular, …

Read more3 Reasons Why the KZN South Coast is the Destination for Renewable Energy Investment
14 March 2024

FAW Trucks SA unveils the JK6 FD/FT variant, reinforcing its position as an industry pioneer

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg, March — FAW Trucks SA, a force in global commercial vehicle manufacturing, proudly announces the introduction launch of the new generation JK6 FD/FT variant. This strategic introduction underscores the company’s steadfast commitment to advancing technology and performance in the commercial transport sector. With a rich history dating back to its establishment in South Africa …

Read moreFAW Trucks SA unveils the JK6 FD/FT variant, reinforcing its position as an industry pioneer
14 March 2024

The European company that profited from corruption at PRASA

Location: News

Vossloh made R1.8-billion from a dodgy deal and has not paid back a cent

Read moreThe European company that profited from corruption at PRASA
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