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“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, …
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 …
Vossloh made R1.8-billion from a dodgy deal and has not paid back a cent
SA, Ghana have great potential to unlock economic opportunities
President Cyril Ramaphosa says there is great potential to unlock economic opportunities through investment-led trade initiatives aimed at increasing the trade of value-added products between South Africa and Ghana.
“We need to move beyond trade in commodities and on to the purchase of job creating agricultural goods, and advanced manufactured and value-added products,” President Ramaphosa said.
Addressing the SA-Ghana Business Forum held at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand on Tuesday, President Ramaphosa said South Africa and Ghana share a long and rich history defined by the struggle for freedom.
“This history provides a firm foundation to forge closer economic ties that can spur growth and development in both countries,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said South Africa is pleased to host the Business Forum to explore business opportunities that enhance bilateral economic relations.
Earlier in the day, President Ramaphosa and his Ghanaian counterpart, President Nana Akufo-Addo, reaffirmed the importance of nurturing of the existing historic relations and bonds of friendship between the two countries.
The two Heads of State emphasised that these relations are based on mutual partnership and solidarity, which date back to the struggle against apartheid and colonialism.
President Akufo-Addo is in South Africa on a working visit at the invitation of President Ramaphosa to co-chair the 2nd Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between the two countries.
Tuesday’s BNC, which was held at the Department of International Relations offices in Pretoria, was preceded by a ministerial meeting on Monday,11 March. Meanwhile, a senior officials meeting was held on Friday, 8 March.
At the Business Forum, President Ramaphosa said Africa has been at the lower-end of global value chains.
"We have abundant natural resources, but limited productive capability to process them for higher value capture.
“However, the need for a global transition to a low-carbon future offers the continent new opportunities to upgrade and diversify into technology-intensive global value chains. Our two countries are in a strategic position to benefit from the rapid growth of key clean energy manufacturing industries.
“Most of the minerals critical for the manufacturing of clean energy technologies, such as battery storage and electric vehicles, are held in Africa,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said there is a need to improve manufacturing capacity and scale up production and export through the building of domestic and regional linkages and value chains.
READ | SA, Ghana explore ways to expand trade and investment
“It is important to explore practical cooperation between key players in industry to foster effective and mutually beneficial collaboration between our countries to promote green industrialisation.
“This will help to build on the strong trade and investment links between our economies. South Africa is already the largest purchaser of Ghanaian exports in Africa, and the third largest importer of Ghana’s products globally,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa emphasised the need to move beyond trade in commodities and on to the purchase of job-creating agricultural goods, advanced manufactured and value-added products.
“The importance of Ghana to South Africa as an anchor partner country within West Africa is affirmed by the many South African trade missions to explore business opportunities in the form of investment-led trade,” he said.
The relationship between the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Ghana has grown exponentially over the years.
Cooperation between the two countries has been elevated from a Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation (PJCC) that is held at a Ministerial level to a Bi-National Commission, presided over by the two Heads of State and Government.
The Business Forum brought together companies and entrepreneurs from South Africa and Ghana with the aim of deepening trade and mutual investment and leveraging the opportunities created within the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Expanded trade and investment will stimulate growth and job creation in both countries and facilitate closer people-to-people interaction between the two nations. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 03/13/2024 - 10:41
Indwe 4IR Lab a hub for communities: Manamela
Higher Education, Science and Innovation Deputy Minister, Buti Manamela, says the establishment of the Indwe 4IR Lab positions the Ekurhuleni East TVET College as a transformative hub for communities.
Manamela made the remarks during the launch of the Indwe Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) Lab at the Ekurhuleni East TVET College’s Artisan and Skills Development Centre on Tuesday.
The state-of-the-art lab is set to provide staff and students at the TVET (Technical Vocational Education and Training) college with cutting-edge skills pertinent to 4IR.
The establishment of the Indwe 4IR Lab is a direct result of a collaborative private-public partnership involving the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA), Festo Didactic and the Ekurhuleni East TVET College.
Festo Didactic offers state-of-the-art learning concepts for technical basic and further training.The company’s customers include vocational colleges, universities, research centres, educational institutes and industrial companies all over the world.
The strategic alliance aims to introduce comprehensive 4IR educational programmes that will significantly boost the employability and productivity of the workforce, as well as enhance the capacity-building efforts for staff at TVET colleges.
Speaking at the launch, Manamela said the launch of the lab must be viewed as part of government’s strategic goals such as developing the relevant skills to help address the country’s pressing socio-economic challenges, but also “help steer our economy from being resource driven to one that is more knowledge driven.”
Manamela said the advent of the 4IR has rendered some skills and jobs obsolete, which will require the country to reimagine the content of what is taught at universities and TVET colleges, as well as their role in society.
“The other priority that our embrace of the 4IR must help us to address is the issue of youth unemployment and in particular, the disturbing phenomenon where over two million of our young people, are not in any form of employment, education, or training, what is commonly referred to as the NEET problem.
“As a country, we can’t hope to sustain our key national goals of skills development, education, and employment, if an important section of our population-our young people-are not in any form of schooling or training. This is a huge risk that threatens to undo much of the progress we have made thus far in education and skills development,” Manamela explained.
The Deputy Minister said the launch of the Indwe 4IR Lab also forms part the department’s programme to equip TVET colleges with 4IR related capacity.
“The Indwe 4IR Lab is also envisioned as a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation, offering opportunities for young people to engage with cutting-edge technologies. It also imagined to be a space where young people can acquire skills in exciting areas such as robotics, 3D printing, the Internet of Things, and advanced wireless technologies.
“These skills are no longer optional but essential for success and prosperity in the digital age. There is therefore no doubt the establishment of Indwe 4IR Lab also positions the Ekurhuleni East TVET College as a transformative hub for the communities of Ekurhuleni,” he said.
Equipping young people
Manamela also encouraged the TVET college to reach out to the surrounding community and open its doors for the youth and young adults to access the cutting-edge technologies that can equip them with the knowledge and skills to get out of the debilitating grip of poverty and unemployment.
“As the Department of Higher Education, we remain steadfast in our support for visionary initiatives such as the Indwe 4IR Lab and this is because we value the role of our TVET colleges in equipping our young people with the skills, not only to pursue relevant careers, but also for them to be able to earn a living from what they are taught,” Manamela said.
The introduction of 4IR programmes to TVET colleges initiative started at Maluti TVET College in the Free State, with Ekurhuleni East TVET College being the second beneficiary.
The department said the initiative will be rolled out to additional TVETs nationwide, including Ehlanzeni in Mpumalanga; Lovedale Eastern Cape; Majuba in KwaZulu-Natal; Northern Cape Urban; South West Gauteng; Waterberg in Limpopo; West Coast in the Western Cape; and Taletso in North West Province. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 03/12/2024 - 15:35
Barriers look intimidating until one day somebody shows just how surmountable they are. Rene Baker’s success in the traditionally male-dominated realm in the world of tyres, shocks, batteries and the like is an inspiration, especially when one considers just how far out of her comfort zone it was. Rene began her working life as a …
In the world of industrial material handling, efficiency and safety are paramount. This is where the power of magnets comes into play, changing the way heavy materials are managed. From the intricate operations on conveyor belts to the robust lifting in warehouses, industrial magnets are indispensable. Let’s delve into the various types of magnets that …
Patel completes working visit to China
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel and a high-level delegation have completed a four-day working visit to Shanghai, Nanjing and Beijing to meet with government officials, investors and a number of Chinese electric vehicles and battery manufacturers.
Patel was hosted by his Chinese counterpart, Wang Wentao, the Chinese Minister of Commerce, at a bilateral meeting and working dinner during the visit.
The discussion reviewed trade relations and considered steps taken to implement agreements signed during President Xi Jinping’s State Visit in August 2023. New opportunities were also identified to strengthen economic ties. The leaders also discussed a possible Memorandum of Understanding on the automotive industry.
During his visit, Patel held bilateral meetings with eight Chinese companies, met six South African companies operating in China and undertook two factory site visits.
The SA delegation met with six potential Chinese investors in the electric vehicle value chain. Four are vehicle manufacturers, namely the Shanghai Automotive Industrial Corporation (SAIC), BYD Auto Manufacturers (the world’s largest electric vehicle producer), Foton Group and Beijing Automotive Industrial Group (BAIC).
The meetings were held with two battery producers: CATL - the world’s largest battery producer, and Gotion Hi-Tech International, who have a partnership with Volkswagen.
“The investors we met were very interested in the market particularly with commencement of trade by South Africa under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (the AfCFTA).
“I found them knowledgeable about local market conditions and keen to explore investment partnerships. This builds on positive sentiment we found in September last year in New York among American investors too,” Patel said.
China is the world’s leading producer of electric vehicles (EVs) and batteries. The visit provided Patel with an opportunity to present the South African automotive value proposition and government policy support to companies looking to invest in the South African automotive industry, particularly in EV manufacturing.
The SA automotive industry is supported by stable long-term policies, such as the South African Automotive Master Plan (SAAM) 2035 and a government support package for capital investment, and vehicle and component production.
The South African government released the Electric Vehicle White Paper in December last year. The paper outlines the country’s approach to supporting the transition to zero-emission vehicle production for the export and domestic market.
As part of the support for the transition, government has improved the automotive industry incentive package for electric vehicle production in South Africa. This includes increased investment support through a recently-announced tax measure.
The support from government ensures South Africa can compete in attracting vital investment into the industry that will facilitate the transition of this well-established sector to new energy vehicles. Access to export markets makes South Africa a more attractive investment destination.
Minister Patel also met investors in the steel and energy sectors and discussed their plans for the SA market.
The Minister was accompanied by senior officials from the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and the dtic.
China is currently South Africa’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade estimated at $34 billion (R556 billion) in 2022. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 03/08/2024 - 09:08
Residents say the Kokstad complex is built in a wetland and “doomed”
Johannesburg, February — FAW Trucks South Africa, a key player in the global commercial vehicle manufacturing arena, reflects on a successful 2023 and charts an ambitious course for 2024 with strategic plans to reinforce its market presence and customer support. 1. Impressive 2023 Performance: Leading the Pack At the close of 2023, FAW Trucks SA …
The African Polystyrene Industry Alliance (APIA), a pioneering non-profit industry body, is thrilled to announce its official launch event scheduled for Thursday, 29 February 2024, at the Plastics SA office in Midrand. The event will mark a significant milestone in the polystyrene industry’s journey towards sustainability, circular economy practices, and responsible production. As an industry …
As temperatures rise and the heat of summer approaches, keeping cool becomes a top priority for many. Whether you’re looking to beat the heat in your home, office, or outdoor space, having a reliable fan can make all the difference in staying comfortable and refreshed. At RS Imports, we understand the importance of quality fans …
Government working to address South Africa's gas supply
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) is expected to present a Gas Master Plan to Cabinet this month to address gas supply in the country.
This is according to DMRE Minister Gwede Mantashe, who delivered the opening address at the Africa Energy Indaba held in Cape Town.
Recent media reports have suggested that South Africa may run out of natural gas supply in 2026, which could have devastating consequences for jobs and manufacturing.
In his written speech, the Minister said government has “noted concerns regarding the current and future gas supply in the South African market due to commercial disputes between Sasol and its customers”.
“Our understanding is that this is in relation to the gas flow decline at source. It is a known fact that natural gas, like other natural resources, is a finite resource and therefore, Sasol reaching a cliff in its gas block in Mozambique is not an anomaly.
“Having noted this eventuality, we, together with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic), have established a task team that includes private sector players to develop a joint strategy that will ensure a seamless transition and business continuity, thus ameliorating potential job losses. The DMRE has also completed all the modelling and drafting work for the country’s Gas Master Plan, which we intend to present to Cabinet this month,” the Minister said.
Mantashe emphasised the importance for African countries to invest in gas infrastructure also as a means of transitioning from high carbon emitting energy sources.
“In its 72nd edition of the Statistical Review of World Energy, the Energy Institute states that fossil fuel consumption as a percentage of primary energy remains steady at 82%, whereas renewables’ share of primary energy consumption reached 7.5% in 2022.
“In the same year, the European Union taxonomy declared both nuclear and gas as sustainable and part of transitional activities. It is, therefore, crucial for African nations to invest in gas infrastructure, including expansion of pipelines.
“It is in this context that iGas, a subsidiary of the Central Energy Fund (CEF), acquired an additional 40% ownership of the ROMPCO [Republic of Mozambique Pipeline Investments Company] pipeline, resulting in both South Africa and Mozambique jointly owning 80% of the pipeline,” he said.
To solidify gas supply further, South Africa has entered into a gas sales agreement with the Mozambican State-owned hydrocarbon company which has the potential to “deliver up to 200 petajoules of natural gas”.
“To breathe life into this agreement, PetroSA, another subsidiary of CEF [Central Energy Fund], has applied for a gas trading licence with the National Energy Regulator of South Africa [NERSA]. We are convinced that the granting of this licence will ensure continuous gas supply,” the Minister said.
According to the Minister, South Africa has also made “significant new finds of natural gas”.
“The discovery of gas by TotalEnergies in the Outeniqua Basin, and the discovery of maiden gas reserves by Kinetiko Energy in Amersfoort, Mpumalanga, are strategically placed to strengthen South Africa’s energy security and propel the quest for industrialisation that will bring about growth and development,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 12:17
In the world of retail, the term “unboxed deals” often raises eyebrows and piques curiosity. What exactly are unboxed deals, and why are they gaining popularity among savvy shoppers? At RS Imports, we’re here to demystify the concept and shed light on the benefits of embracing unboxed deals for your shopping needs. What Are Unboxed …
Coleus Packaging, the metal crown manufacturer in South Africa, is on track to benefit from its deal with Greek company Astir Vitogiannis through the investment in a new PMC 500 crown manufacturing machine. “Previously, we were majority owned by SAB but in mid-2022 Astir Vitogiannis acquired 75% shareholding in Coleus, and left the remaining 25% …
The use of large amounts of recycled rubber crumb for the manufacture of road surfaces and related products is propelling South Africa towards a circular economy. Waste products are usefully used to address key infrastructure needs, says Dr Mehran Zarrebini, CEO of Hammarsdale-based radial truck tyre recycler, Mathe Group The company recycles approximately 1 000 …
The Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition has launched its sixth annual continent-wide search for 10 exceptional entrepreneurs who are striving to make a positive impact in their local communities. The application form can be accessed for free on ABH's official website (https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/) starting today.
Since its inception in 2019, ABH has spotlighted and supported some of Africa's brightest entrepreneurial minds. The ABH top 10 finalists (Heroes) over the last five years:
In 2023, ABH published a five-year impact report that details the impact ABH Heroes have had. The full report can be accessed here: https://apo-opa.co/3T4mErL
As ABH enters its sixth year, it is calling on entrepreneurs across Africa to pitch on the biggest entrepreneurial stage in the continent. ABH encourages applicants from all 54 countries, from all business sectors, of all ages and genders, to submit their applications in English or French. Along with invaluable benefits such as training, exposure and networking opportunities, the top 10 finalists will also compete for their share of US$1.5 million in grant money.
“Over the past five years, we've had the privilege of witnessing the incredible growth of our Heroes. Many of our Heroes have leveraged the grant funds to expand their geographic footprint, hire talent, grow their operations and invest in new products and services. It's been heart-warming to see our Heroes collaborate with each other and to tap into the ABH network of judges and experts. We are motivated to continue to play our part in supporting the African entrepreneurial ecosystem. We are calling on all eligible African entrepreneurs who are creating positive impact to join us in this journey!” says Zahra Baitie, Head of Partnerships & Programs, Africa's Business Heroes.
To date, nearly 100,000 entrepreneurs have participated in the ABH Prize Competition. Last year's winners were chosen from 27,267 applicants from sectors spanning agriculture, education and training, energy, financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. The competition cumulated in the Grand Finale, where the top 10 finalists mounted Africa's largest augmented reality-powered stage to present their businesses to a panel of esteemed judges.
Dr. Ikpeme Neto, CEO and Founder of Wellahealth Technologies, ABH 2023 First Prize Winner says: “Participating in the ABH Prize Competition has been a transformative experience for Wellahealth Technologies, profoundly impacting our journey as a startup. ABH not only provided us with financial assistance but also offered unparalleled opportunities for entrepreneurship training, networking, and exposure. I urge fellow entrepreneurs across Africa to seize this extraordinary opportunity to enjoy a wealth of benefits that can catalyze growth and success for your ventures.”
WellaHealth (www.WellaHealth.com) provides affordable healthcare plans that start at less than a dollar a month to cover care common conditions delivered via pharmacies and remote doctors. The company serves over 300,000 individuals and is aiming to reach one million within 18 months and expand to 10 million within the next five years, extending its services in Nigeria and throughout Africa.
ABH constantly explores effective ways to help the participating entrepreneurs take their businesses to the next level. As with previous years, the journey to this year's Grand Finale will also include access to a community of business leaders, innovators, industry experts and investors as well as multi-disciplinary boot camps and training sessions.
To better facilitate the engagement with entrepreneurs and facilitate applications, this year ABH will organize a series of roadshows in multiple countries, including Cameroon, Cote d'Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania and Zambia. These events will be conducted in collaboration with local entrepreneur organizations and ABH community members. Participants will gain valuable insights into the ABH initiative as well as enhance their chances of success in the competition. Further details regarding the roadshows and information sessions will be disseminated via ABH's official social media channels and newsletters.
Applications for ABH 2024 are open from now until May 19, 2024. The top 50 finalists will be announced in July, followed by the announcement of the top 10 in September. The final winners will be unveiled at the Grand Finale in November.
To apply, and for more information about ABH 2024, please visit ABH's website (https://apo-opa.co/3uUYEPD) and follow ABH on Twitter (@africa_heroes), Instagram (https://apo-opa.info/3KZTXKa), TikTok (https://apo-opa.co/48DjD7o) and YouTube (https://apo-opa.info/3YDG5bH).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH).
Press Contact:
Africa's Business Heroes Press Room
abh.press@list.alibaba-inc.com
For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact:
English: Tracy Walakira
tracy.walakira@apo-opa.com
French / Arabic: Malika Bouayad
malika.bouayad@apo-opa.com
About Africa's Business Heroes:
The Africa's Business Heroes Prize Competition is a philanthropic initiative sponsored by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy. It aims to support, inspire and enable the next generation of African entrepreneurs across all sectors who are building a brighter future for the continent, by offering grant funding, training programs and support for the development of an entrepreneurial ecosystem. Over 10 years, each year the ABH Prize Competition features 10 entrepreneur finalists as they pitch their business to win a share of US$1.5 million in grant money.
128 Mpumalanga schools introduce coding, robotics
The Mpumalanga provincial government has introduced coding and robotics in 128 schools, as part of its pilot programme.
“That pilot is progressing well and 128 schools, from Grade R to 3 and Grade 7, are currently doing coding and robotics,” Mpumalanga Premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane said on Friday when delivering the State of the Province Address (SOPA).
Since 2022, in its quest to improve learner performance, the provincial government is providing all Grade 12 learners and teachers in Quantile 1 to 3 schools with tablets and laptops respectively.
These devices, the Premier said, are loaded with e-content and will be provided this year with an offline application to enable access to learning even outside the four walls of the classroom without data or connectivity.
“This government continues to strengthen e-learning in our schools. This year, the province will introduce the smart schools concept in eight schools where both teachers and learners will utilise technological devices and thus making the schools paperless," Mtshweni-Tsipane said.
She said the land for the construction of the proposed School for the Deaf and Blind has been secured at Emalahleni Municipality.
“Once the school is completed, the 250 deaf learners currently studying at Bukhosibetfu Full Service School and the 200 in other special schools will be relocated to the new school."
Job creation
By the end of January 2024, a total of 63 478 jobs were created through the 21 identified programmes, including the Siyatentela Road Maintenance Programme, Government Nutrition Programme, School Handymen and Tourism Safety Monitors, to name a few.
“Since 2021 and through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, we have trained and created a total of 65 296 job opportunities for unemployed youth in different schools.
“Since its inception in 2019, the Premier’s Youth Development Fund has disbursed R258 million to fund 182 youth-owned enterprises. The funded beneficiaries have created more than 630 jobs in agriculture, mining, manufacturing as well as film and production,” Mtshweni-Tsipane said.
Growing tourism
As part of ongoing efforts to attract tourism to Mpumalanga, the provincial government has upgraded tourism facilities in four nature reserves with accommodation facilities.
These include Songimvelo-Kromdraai Camp, Andover, SS Skhosana and Manyeleti.
“Phase 2 of fence installations is in progress in order to minimise human wildlife conflict in Songimvelo, Mthethomusha and Mdala reserves. It’s important for us to implement these projects efficiently, economically and effectively in order to increase the number visitors to our province.
"We are pleased with the intention to support the provincial efforts in this regard, expressed from the National Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development,” the Premier said.
As of 1 April 2024, FlySaFair introduced new routes between Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport and Cape Town
“This adds further impetus to the gains we made when Eurowings, a German airline, chose Mpumalanga as its destination of choice more than a year ago. This is further supported by the Stats SA Tourism and migration report released in January 2024, which placed Mpumalanga at the second spot in international tourist arrivals.
“As early as February 2024, we entered into a strategic partnership with Aspinall Foundation to elevate the Loskop Dam Nature Reserve to a Big Five Game Reserve. We have also concluded a collaboration with Greater Kruger Environmental Protection Foundation to fight poaching in Manyeleti. This collaboration includes establishing new pickets, maintenance of fence and the training of field rangers,” the Premier said.
Transport
The provincial government plans to build a state-of-the-art interchange along the railway line from the city centre leading to Pine Ridge, Klarinet, Siyanqoba and Verena.
“This interchange will improve safety and ease traffic flow in that area. The planning and design process has been completed. The construction of the interchange will commence in the 2024/25 financial,” the Premier said.
During the current administration, government will complete projects including the rehabilitation of sections P8/1 (R36) between Mashishing and Bambi Phase 3; D2950 Mananga to River Crossing; Coal Haul P36/1 Delmas to N12 and the upgrading of D481 Mooiplaas and Ekulindeni; D4407 Hluvukani – Orpen Road near Welverdied.
Caring for the vulnerable
Since the beginning of the sixth administration, government has placed 542 children in foster care.
The Premier also touched on social ills.
"Substance abuse has become endemic, negatively impacting on the lives of the substance abusers and their close families. We opened our doors and our hearts to more than 1 942 substance abusers who needed our help.
“We have completed the construction of the Swartfontein and the Nkangala treatment centres. In the days ahead, we will officially handover the Nkangala treatment centre.
“In the current administration, 7 409 Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) have been supported to implement programmes that are impact driven and aid our efforts to create a Mpumalanga anchored on morals and social cohesion,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 12:54
Limpopo committed to good governance, says Mathabatha
Limpopo Premier Stan Mathabatha says the province has, over the past decade, worked tirelessly to bring stability and sound administration.
“Through collective effort and unwavering commitment, we have seen remarkable improvements in audit outcomes and overall provincial performance,” Mathabatha said.
Delivering the State of the Province Address in Polokwane on Thursday, Mathabatha said the once prevalent disclaimer audit opinions are now a thing of the past in the provincial departments, public entities and municipalities.
"In 2013, Limpopo was at a critical juncture. Five departments were under national administration. Confidence in our provincial administration was waning. Our task was clear, yet daunting. It was to breathe life back into these departments and restore confidence in our governance.
“[Now] no department is under administration. As we reflect on the progress we have made, let us also look to the future with optimism and determination,” Mathabatha said.
Mathabatha said the story of Limpopo's renewal and development is far from over.
“It is a continuous journey, one that requires an active citizenry, and the collective effort of every community and leader. Together, we can build on the foundation we have laid, striving for even greater achievements and a brighter future for all who call Limpopo home.
“Our trajectory towards a Limpopo that we all yearn for is taking shape during an unfavorable, harsh global reality,” he said.
Mathabatha said under the circumstances, the province needs to build greater self-reliance and increase its share of value addition in finished products.
“It is important to continue our efforts to achieve manufacturing localisation, to deepen and expand domestic beneficiation of our minerals and primary agricultural products, industrialise and drive large-scale employment,” he said.
Mathabatha said since 2022, the province has become the fifth largest province in South Africa.
“Although we have moved from the fourth spot, we have become the largest contributor to Gauteng’s population.
“Our economic and social development programmes should help us retain our youth, while protecting their freedom of movement. Democracy has brought about many shifts. More people stay where they want to,” he said.
Food security
Mathabatha said the provincial government remains determined to support its people in food production.
“Limpopo has established a firm role in food security in our country.”
Mathabatha said 29% of households in the province now grow food in their yards.
“This is a testament to the fact that we have an active citizenry in food production. We remain determined to support our people in food production,” Mathabatha said.
He emphasised the need to build on the progress made, harnessing the potential of the youth, investing in infrastructure, fostering industrialisation and promoting sustainable development.
“... We have made progress in addressing the legacy of colonialism and apartheid. We also all acknowledge that there is still a lot of work to be done. I am sure we all agree that the road to success is a journey, not a sprint,” Mathabatha said.
Mathabatha said as the province, they reaffirm what President Cyril Ramaphosa said during the State of the Nation Address earlier this month, that the provincial government must strive for a non-racial and non-sexist democratic South Africa. - SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 13:07
In the realm of hospitality, where comfort and luxury are paramount, the role of linen suppliers cannot be overstated. These suppliers form an integral part of the hospitality industry in South Africa, providing establishments with the essential linens that contribute to the overall guest experience. From hotels and resorts to restaurants and event venues, the demand for …
In the heart of South Africa, a vibrant and dynamic sector is reshaping the culinary landscape—food manufacturing. This industry, characterized by its innovation, sustainability, and quality, plays a pivotal role in feeding the nation and beyond. Among the leaders in this sector are bulk food manufacturers, who are setting new standards in food production, distribution, and …
In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, businesses are continually seeking innovative solutions to stay ahead of the curve. This guide delves into a suite of services that are pivotal for organizations aiming to harness the power of technology and digital transformation. These offerings span from educational initiatives to cloud computing, data intelligence, and beyond, showcasing …
Introduction Pumps are indispensable across various sectors, providing critical support from agriculture to industrial processes. They facilitate a wide array of functions, including irrigation, waste management, and product handling, ensuring efficiency and reliability. This piece explores the nuanced roles pumps play in agriculture, food processing, and industrial applications, highlighting the technological advancements that enhance their performance. …
Stats SA records decrease in number of employed persons
The Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) results for the fourth quarter of 2023 by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) indicate that the number of employed persons decreased by 22 000 to 16.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2023 when compared to the third quarter.
Addressing a media briefing on Tuesday in Pretoria, Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke said the number of unemployed persons increased by 46 000 to 7.9 million compared to quarter three.
“Additionally, the number of people who were not economically active for reasons other than discouragement increased by 218 000 to 13.4 million, while discouraged work-seekers decreased by 107 000 in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to the third quarter of 2023. This resulted in a net increase of 111 000 in the not economically active population.
“The above changes in employment and unemployment resulted in the official unemployment rate increasing by 0.2 of a percentage point from 31.9% in the third quarter of 2023 to 32.1% in the fourth quarter of 2023.
“The unemployment rate according to the expanded definition decreased by 0.1 of a percentage point to 41.1% in Q4: 2023 compared to Q3: 2023,” Maluleke said.
Formal sector employment decreased by 128 000 in Q4: 2023, while informal sector employment increased by 124 000 over the same period.
The industries that contributed to the net employment decline include community and social services (down by 171 000), construction (down by 36 000), agriculture (down by 35 000), trade (down by 28 000) and manufacturing (down by 1 000).
However, finance (up by 128 000), transport (up by 57 000), mining (up by 37 000) and private households (up by 18 000) recorded the largest employment gains.
“Provincially, employment losses were recorded in Eastern Cape (111 000), Limpopo (40 000), North West (30 000) and Northern Cape (2 000). The largest employment increase was recorded in KwaZulu-Natal (62 000), followed by Mpumalanga (48 000) and Western Cape (23 000) during the same period.
“The youth (15–34 years) remain vulnerable in the labour market; the fourth quarter of 2023 results show that the total number of unemployed youth increased by 87 000 to 4.7 million while there was a decrease of 97 000 in the number of employed youth to 5.9 million. This resulted in an increase in the youth unemployment rate by 0.9 of a percentage point from 43.4% in Q3: 2023 to 44.3% in Q4: 2023,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
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Tue, 02/20/2024 - 12:01