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President Ramaphosa to address National Women’s Day Commemoration

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa will tomorrow, Friday, 9 August 2024, officiate the National Women's Day Commemoration hosted by the Khâi-Ma Municipality at Pofadder in Namakwa District of the Northern Cape.

The President will address the national commemoration of Women's Day under the theme "Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom Towards Women's Development" at the Denis Nel Stadium in Pofadder.

The national event marks 68 years to the day since 20 000 women of diverse backgrounds from across South Africa marched to the Union Buildings to protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women.

During 30 years of democracy, South Africa has made significant strides in advancing gender equality in all domains of society, including economic empowerment of women.

The Women's Charter advances women's economic programmes through targeted reforms that drive equality. 

Women's Day 2024 is the first national day led by the Government of National Unity and takes place in a rural community as part of including all South Africans in national events and placing a focus on the achievements and needs of women in all corners of the country.

President Ramaphosa will ahead of leading the commemoration at the Denis Nel Stadium tour a services-on-wheels exhibition of government services that will be provided to citizens attending the national day, as well as a trade expo featuring, small medium and micro enterprises led by women entrepreneurs in the Northern Cape Province. 

Details of the National Women's Day Commemoration are:
Date: Friday, 09 August 2024
Time: 10:00
Venue: Dennis Nel Stadium,Poffader, Northern Cape

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read morePresident Ramaphosa to address National Women’s Day Commemoration

Empowering SA’s unemployed through entrepreneurship for economic growth

Location: MyPR

South Africa faces a youth unemployment crisis with a staggering rate of 45.5%, the highest in the world in 2023 per www.statista.com. Empowering entrepreneurs and driving micro business development is crucial for economic growth, addressing unemployment challenges and lack of income opportunities, reducing financial inequality, and ultimately uplifting communities. Job scarcity, lack of skills, educational …

Read moreEmpowering SA’s unemployed through entrepreneurship for economic growth

Strategic Partnership Helps Tackle Early Childhood Development Crisis in South Africa

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg, South Africa – Internationally acclaimed non-profit organisation, The Unlimited Child are proud to announce their newly established partnership with National Treasury’s Jobs Fund. The two have joined forces to address the challenges in Early Childhood Development (ECD), focusing on marginalised rural and peri-urban communities while creating sustainable jobs. Recognising the importance of investing in …

Read moreStrategic Partnership Helps Tackle Early Childhood Development Crisis in South Africa

Under One Roof rolls out its residential property listing service in South Africa

Location: Business
Under One Roof

Under One Roof (www.UnderOneRoof.co.za), is an entirely new concept set to solve some of the most frustrating problems encountered with other property listing websites. It introduces a homeownership resource-concentrated hub that not only presents properties for rent or sale - which uniquely also assists its clients to complete a transfer to a new owner - but also incorporates offerings that empower homeowners to make well-informed decisions about their lifestyle.

Simultaneously, Under One Roof heralds the entry of a new female real estate CEO, Lynne Krawchuk, who is set to change the traditionally heavily-male dominated property executive clique. Her decades of experience as a marketing professional give Under One Roof the edge when it comes to converting website visitors to loyal clients, putting their needs and wants ahead of merely presenting a search engine of listings.

“We are going to completely change the way properties are showcased,” says Krawchuk. “We will reveal the power of delivering an innovative property ecosystem that will optimise anyone's property journey, be that the property practitioner or agency, the buyer, seller, or renter.”

Under One Roof is something not yet seen before on existing South African property platforms, where listings and advice remain unsupported by other digital marketing strategies, and which are not catering to the different demographic markets.

“This is likely due to complacency by the dominant few property-listing players who have amassed a following due to their monopoly. As such they have created an uneven playing field that restricts the marketing efforts of, particularly, the small-, micro-, and medium-sized property players who are further compromised by the prevailing challenge of diminishing property prices and weakened purchasing power of consumers,” says Krawchuk.

The key differentiator with Under One Roof is its functionality and pricing plan. Krawchuk explains that all users, be those buyers, sellers, renters, landlords, developers, or property practitioners, are provided with a unique login aligned to their own customised backend dashboard.

“Here they can access in-depth data relevant to individual listed properties, be that municipal charges or alternative power and water solutions. Buyers and renters will be able to download walk-through video's and monitor listings they are interested in for an easy revisit or comparison.”

Estate agents and private listers will be able to monitor the number of visitors to their listings, update, and edit details, and can avail of either a three- or six-month subscription per listing with a unique twist. “If the property is sold before the subscription expires, the outstanding months of the package can be transferred to another property listing, provided the first property sale is proven. We can even upload listings if that is preferred, at no charge,” explains Krawchuk.

For buyers, especially those who either do not fully comprehend the property purchase journey or are frustrated by the number of steps in the process, Under One Roof offers to source bond origination, bridging finance, rate clearance certificates and assistance with the transfer. “This feature alone responds to an undeniably underserved market, more specifically first-time home buyers and millennials who prefer to engage a full-range service.”

The Under One Roof customer-centric approach is also going to present as a novelty, for while technology may be driving the platform, AI chatbots are not a feature. “Our research indicates that customers prefer having a human respond to online or email queries. We acknowledge that while today's customers are considered as ‘smart consumers' who may be familiar with the digital realm, chatbots have no empathy, are unable to solve critical problems, and tend to aggravate users who may have a unique request.” 

As Under One Roof grows, so too will the breadth of the platform. “Beyond the necessary features, we are concentrating on targeted demographics, where demands differ in terms of cultural and locality preferences,” says Krawchuk. “For example, in the future we will be presenting neighbourhood video visits hosted by a typical resident, and guidance manuals and features that highlight lifestyle choices. Commercial and retail properties will also be introduced.

“We believe that Under One Roof is the most intelligent, powerful, transparent, and streamlined real estate game-changer since property listings went online in the late 90s,” emphasises Krawchuk. “The team at Under One Roof is intentional about manifesting change in the market by filling the gaps that have been prevalent for too long. And, while others may think we are a disruptor, we disagree! We prefer to think of ourselves as renegades by challenging the existing, staid, and unadventurous status quo.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Under One Roof.

About Under One Roof:
Under One Roof (www.UnderOneRoof.co.za) is reinventing the property listing experience by delivering a one-to-one personalisation online platform for agents, buyers, sellers, and renters. It has developed a unique South African approach to all thing's property-focused, including lifestyle, with its presentation of a combination of digital and human interactions. Under One Roof is a compelling property hub that speaks to, and inspires, a new generation of property stakeholders.

Headquarters: Pretoria, South Africa

For more information, please visit our website: www.UnderOneRoof.co.za

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Unlimiting The Future

Location: MyPR

The Unlimited Child CEO Named Finalist in 2024 Santam Women of the Future Awards The Unlimited Child, the largest and leading Early Childhood Development (ECD) non-profit organisation in South Africa, is incredibly proud to announce that their CEO, Candice Potgieter, has been named a finalist in the prestigious 2024 Santam Women of the Future Awards …

Read moreUnlimiting The Future

The Black Business Council (BBC) welcomes the signing into law, by H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa, of the National Small Enterprise Amendment Act.

Location: MyPR

The Black Business Council (BBC) welcomes the signing into law, by H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa, of the National Small Enterprise Amendment Act. The National Small Enterprise Amendment Act, which amends the National Small Enterprise Act of 1996, establishes the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEDFA) through the incorporation of the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa), …

Read moreThe Black Business Council (BBC) welcomes the signing into law, by H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa, of the National Small Enterprise Amendment Act.

National Small Enterprise Amendment Act touted as gamechanger

Location: News

National Small Enterprise Amendment Act touted as gamechanger

The signing into law of the National Small Enterprise Amendment Bill by President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to revolutionise the small business ecosystem.

“We are confident that the National Small Enterprise Act, as amended, will turn the tide in favour of small enterprises, by levelling the playing fields and enabling the provision of more integrated and effective financial and non-financial support to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and co-operatives,” Minister of Small Business Development Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams said on Tuesday.

The Act establishes the Office of the Enterprise Ombuds Service, redefines and simplifies the term “small enterprises” and empowers the Minister to declare certain trading practices in relation to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as unfair trading practices.

This streamlines the support services that government provides to MSMEs to broaden their participation in the economy in line with government’s commitment towards placing MSMEs at the centre of the reconstruction and recovery of the economy.

The new Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEDFA) will drive economic transformation and inclusive growth in the economy through ensuring the provision of customised financial and non-financial support for MSMEs and cooperatives to enable them to play a strategic role in the value chains of various sectors of the economy.

“The Act also provides for the establishment of the Office of the Small Enterprise Ombud Services which will serve as an impartial mediator in the disputes, especially for small enterprises, thereby avoiding costly litigation processes.

“The lack of effective and affordable access to a justice mechanism for small enterprises has been a matter of grave concern to all in the small enterprise eco-system. Business-to-business disputes and the late and nonpayment of legitimate invoices remain a significant reality in the lives of small enterprises and cooperatives, with very real implications for their growth and sustainability,” the Minister said.

MSMEs will now avoid the litigation route, which is wearisome and costly, and use the alternative dispute resolution mechanism of the Ombud. 

“The determinations by the Ombud will be mandatory and binding. The provision will still be made within the act for review specifically on the grounds of illegality, procedural unfairness; or irrationality, thus still protecting the constitutional rights of all persons involved,” she said.

Unfair Trading Practices

The Act also enables the Minister to declare certain trading practices in relation to small enterprises as unfair trading practices on recommendation of the Ombud.

“It sets the parameters and procedures in terms of which the Minister, by notice in the Gazette, may declare certain practices in relation to small enterprises to be prohibited unfair trading practices.

“The unfair trading practices relate to exclusionary compliance requirements for small enterprises, retrospective changes to contracts, ambiguous contracts, sudden and unjustified termination of a commercial relationship or termination without reasonable notice to MSMEs and Cooperatives,” Ndabeni-Abrahams said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 07/24/2024 - 14:16

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Read moreNational Small Enterprise Amendment Act touted as gamechanger

Savour the artistry: Exclusive Chef’s Table experience debuts at @Sandton Hotel

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

@Sandton Hotel is thrilled to announce the launch of its exclusive Chef’s Table experience in a newly transformed private dining room, located in the heart of our exquisite wine storage area. This modern, eclectically finished space provides an intimate setting for up to eight guests, offering an unparalleled dining experience curated by Executive Chef Tony …

Read moreSavour the artistry: Exclusive Chef’s Table experience debuts at @Sandton Hotel

SA to work with Palestine in research, technology and innovation programme

Location: News

SA to work with Palestine in research, technology and innovation programme

Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande,  has announced a new programme to foster cooperation in science, technology and innovation (STI) between South Africa and war-torn Palestine. 

“The programme will also have a special focus support for safeguarding, rebuilding, and developing Palestine’s research and innovation capacities and infrastructure,” Nzimande explained on Tuesday.

According to the Minister, the decision was made following a series of collaborations between the two nations. 

These include a joint research project, seed funding for developing South African–Palestinian knowledge networks, the hosting of Palestinian scholars and students in South Africa in exchange programmes and sharing South African policy experience regarding science policy and system development.

The Minister, delivering his 2024/25 Budget Vote, stated that the programme aligns with the department’s strategic objective of using science diplomacy to foster human solidarity, and social justice, and support the country’s foreign policy.

“This new programme will be implemented by our entity the NRF [National Research Foundation] and will be funded from the department’s existing budget for international cooperation,” he told Members of Parliament (MPs). 

Vaccines
 

For the 2024/25 financial year, the department experienced a budget cut, which was adjusted to R10 562 billion from R10 874 billion in 2023/24. 

“I am honoured to be delivering the first Budget Vote of the Department of Science and Innovation, under the seventh administration, in the same year we celebrate 30 years of democracy. 

“In these 30 years, our country has made tremendous strides in science, technology, and innovation,” he added. 

He highlighted some of the achievements under the previous administration, which he believes have laid a foundation for deepening work in the new government.  

This includes a new Vaccine Manufacturing Strategy (VIMS) to promote domestic design, development and production of vaccines.

Through VIMS, the department targeted vaccine development to fight the Rift Valley fever (RVF), human papillomavirus (HPV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and the hepatitis B virus. 

Working with the World Health Organisation (WHO), government also set up capacity for the local development of mRNA vaccines in response to future Coronavirus threats. 

Hydrogen economy 

Nzimande also touched on the hydrogen economy, which was specifically referenced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) last Thursday. 

“The DSI is leading major innovations to promote the transition to green hydrogen as an alternative source of energy to fuel our economy and to facilitate a net-zero energy future,” he explained.  

In 2023/24, they also provided R53 million as an initial investment to support women-led small, medium, and micro-enterprises (SMMEs) in the hydrogen economy. 

Achievements

A national solar research facility was also established by the government to enable localisation and technology transfer in support of the Cannabis Industrialisation Masterplan and the Renewable Energy Masterplan. 

“Arising from this, it is pleasing to report that the CSIR [Council for Scientific and Industrial Research] graduated 23 SMMEs with two commercial value-added products each.” 

The Minister also highlighted the role of the department in leading scientific and technological advancements in the field of astronomy, particularly in the construction of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project, which is poised to become the world’s biggest-ever radio telescope array. 

In the area of agro-processing and farmer development in the 2023/24 period, the department provided 1 480 black emerging farmers with technology development support. 
 

New growth industries

Building on the successes of the sixth administration, the Minister said they remain committed to ensuring the sustainability of existing businesses in the agricultural, manufacturing and mining sectors and supporting the development of new growth industries. 

“STI is also about transforming the socio-economic conditions of working-class communities in townships and rural areas.”

He also touched on the Mandela Mining Precinct, a public-private partnership between the DSI and the Minerals Council of South Africa aimed at revitalising mining research, development and innovation to ensure the sustainability of the industry.

As part of building a capable State, he said his department has begun establishing an Earth Observation Data Centre to provide decision support tools for government in fire and flood mapping, food security monitoring, human settlements mapping, forest mapping, disaster management, climate change and water resources management. 

In addition, he told Parliament that government was looking at ways of raising gross expenditure on research and development (GERD) equal to 1.5% of the gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030/31. 

“Our challenges notwithstanding, we present this budget as our commitment to transform our National System of Innovation and using science, technology, and innovation to impact the lives of our people in a transformative way,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 07/23/2024 - 13:15

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Read moreSA to work with Palestine in research, technology and innovation programme

President Ramaphosa Assents to National Small Enterprise Amendment Bill

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa has assented to the National Small Enterprise Amendment Bill which streamlines the support services government provided to small and medium businesses as part of broadening participation in the economy by a greater number of South Africans.

The National Small Enterprise Amendment Act signed by the President amends the National Small Enterprise Act of 1996 to establish a new entity, the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency, which will incorporate the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEFA), the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) and the Cooperative Banks Development Agency (SEDFA).

SEDA and SEFA are currently located within the Department of Small Business Development.

The new Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency will function as a one-stop-shop for aspiring entrepreneurs and promote the development of the Co-operative Banking Institutions (CBIs).

The Act also establishes the Office of the Small Enterprise Ombud Service which may, as part of dealing with complaints, recommend that the Minister of Small Business Development declare certain practices in relation to small enterprises to be prohibited unfair trading.

Under the new law, the Minister may make regulations setting the criteria to determine the classification of micro, small and medium enterprises as well as any legislation affecting small enterprises.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read morePresident Ramaphosa Assents to National Small Enterprise Amendment Bill

Your cute tote bag is not green

Location: MyPR

As the fight against plastic intensifies, alternatives have come into the market in the form of cute cotton tote bags adorned with environmentally friendly puns, becoming a trend and an aesthetic for social media. Yet the impact of these so-called plastic alternatives is debatable. Dr Lize Barclay, Senior Lecturer in Futures Studies and Systems Thinking, …

Read moreYour cute tote bag is not green

ReSURGEnce Durban conference to present new markets for local businesses

Location: News

ReSURGEnce Durban conference to present new markets for local businesses

EThekwini Municipality City Manager, Musa Mbhele, says the 2024 reSURGEnce Durban Conference is an opportunity for new markets to be opened up to local businesses.

Mbhele’s remarks come ahead of the biggest global investment conference expected to hit the city’s shores - the reSURGEnce Durban Conference, which is taking place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre from 17 to 21 July 2024.

The conference, which is hosted by eThekwini Municipality, in collaboration with partners from the United States of America (USA), will see a large number of USA delegates, including captains of industry, businesses, investors, financers, decision makers, and high-profile leaders, who are expected to descend on the city next month.

Held under the theme ‘Moving the needle forward towards economic emancipation’, the event, will present platforms where entrepreneurs will gain access to capital and investment opportunities.

Mbhele said the five-day investment conference will take place in the form of trade shows, empowerment conferences, taking hosted delegations on site visits to local key developments, networking and pitching sessions, youth entrepreneurship, and a music concert to showcase local talent to an international audience.

“This is part of the city’s efforts and plan of action to boost trade and investment in Durban. This could unlock new markets, clientele base and collaborations which could result in massive business growth,” Mbhele said.

Mbhele has invited interested local businesses to register and showcase their businesses to an international investment delegation. The exhibitor registration closes on 30 June 2024. 

Exhibition registration fees are as follows:
• Small, medium, and micro enterprises: R500 
• Non-profit organisations: R1 000
• Non-governmental organisations: R1 000
• Tertiary institutions: R2 000
• Government departments: R5 000
• Government agencies: R5 000 
• Corporates: R5 000 

To register for the reSURGEnce Durban Conference and for more information visit www.resurganceconference.org. – SAnews.gov.za 

GabiK
Wed, 06/26/2024 - 12:28

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Read moreReSURGEnce Durban conference to present new markets for local businesses

Regent Business School introduces LearnHUB: comprehensive online short learning programmes to foster upskilling and reskilling

Location: MyPR

Regent Business School, a leading provider of higher education, is excited to announce the launch of its new platform offering short learning programmes, SMME focused programmes and free micro-skilling videos. In line with Regent Business School’s commitment to making education accessible and affordable, this initiative aims to support individuals and businesses in their quest for …

Read moreRegent Business School introduces LearnHUB: comprehensive online short learning programmes to foster upskilling and reskilling

MPA Day makes it to the Top 10 of the OceanLove Innovation Award 2024

Location: MyPR

The winners of the inaugural OceanLove Innovation Award 2024 were unveiled on 19 June 2024 in a spectacular ceremony at the Oceanovation Festival, The Hague, with South Africa’s Marine Protected Areas (MPA) Day making it into the Top 10. The submitted ideas were assessed based on several criteria including originality, impact, reach and feasibility. Out …

Read moreMPA Day makes it to the Top 10 of the OceanLove Innovation Award 2024

The Coca-Cola System in Kenya Announces Major Investment

Location: Business
Coca Cola Beverages Africa

The Coca-Cola system, consisting of The Coca-Cola Company and its authorised bottler Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (https://www.CCBAGroup.com), has announced its intention to grow its investment in Kenya by up to $175 million over the next five years, should the business achieve its anticipated growth targets in the country.

Hosting Kenyan President H.E. Dr William Ruto at The Coca-Cola Company's headquarters in Atlanta, Sunil Gupta, CEO of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, said, “The Coca-Cola system has been an integral part of Kenya's landscape for more than 75 years. Today, we are excited to announce our intention to strengthen this legacy through a substantial investment.”

“This investment is aimed at accelerating the Coca-Cola system's capacity and capability expansion over the next five years. Our decision to invest underscores our belief in the long-term potential of Kenya's economy,” Gupta said.

Luisa Ortega, President of The Coca-Cola Company's Africa Operating Unit, emphasized the importance of collaboration with the government to create a stable policy environment. "The Coca-Cola system has been part of communities in Kenya for more than seven decades. We are excited to continue growing our business and supporting communities across Kenya for many years to come," said Ortega.

The Coca-Cola system has a rich legacy of refreshing Africa and making a difference in the East Africa region, where it is a major employer, directly employing 10,000 people.

The Coca-Cola system also works with over 500,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises across the region, giving the company a direct connection to the experiences shared by many businesses in Kenya and across the East African region.

“Our value chain supports livelihoods for over a million people in distribution, sales and other roles,” said Gupta. “We source close to 8,000 metric tons of mango puree from East African farmers. We believe in the region's potential and its ability to achieve significant growth through collaboration between public and private sectors. Our business in Kenya is centered on a local approach - we hire locally, produce locally, distribute locally and source locally.”

“We are optimistic and fully committed to Kenya's future. We foresee great social and economic advancement, and this is why we continue to invest in our Kenyan business as well as community programs that help strengthen Kenya's prosperity,” Ortega concluded.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca Cola Beverages Africa.

ISSUED BY:
Wendy Thole-Muir
Group Head of Reputation and Communication
Coca-Cola Beverages Africa
Tel: +27 83 795 8524
Email: WThole-Muir@ccbagroup.com

Clifford Machoka
Senior Director
Public Affairs
Communication & Sustainability
East & Central Africa
Coca-Cola Africa
Tel: +254 734 109 260/1
Email: cmachoka@coca-cola.com

About The Coca‑Cola Company:
The Coca‑Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company's purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes Coca‑Cola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee, and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and AdeS. We're constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people's lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Follow us on Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/42DbAWX), Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4bKvZ0m) and LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/4bpOQ03).

About Coca-Cola Beverages Africa:
Coca-Cola Beverages Africa is the 8th largest Coca-Cola bottling partner in the world by revenue, and the largest on the continent. It accounts for over 40% of all Coca-Cola products sold in Africa by volume. With over 18,000 employees in Africa, CCBA services more than 720,000 customers with a host of international and local brands. The group was formed in July 2016 after the successful combination of the southern and east Africa bottling operations of the non-alcoholic ready-to-drink beverages businesses of The Coca-Cola Company, SABMiller plc and Gutsche Family Investments. CCBA shareholders are currently: The Coca-Cola Company 66.5% and Gutsche Family Investments 33.5%. CCBA operates in 15 countries, including its six key markets of South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Mozambique, and Namibia, as well as Tanzania, Botswana, Ghana, Zambia, the islands of Comoros and Mayotte, Eswatini, Lesotho and Malawi.

Learn more at  https://www.CCBAGroup.com

Follow us on LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/4dfq8AC)

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Celebrating Whisky Month with Johnnie Walker Blue Label: Exceptional Cocktails for Every Occasion

Location: MyPR

May is Whisky Month, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with the luxurious, complex flavours of Johnnie Walker Blue Label. Renowned for its smooth, rich taste, Johnnie Walker Blue Label is perfect for crafting cocktails that elevate any occasion. Here are some exquisite cocktail recipes that highlight the elegance and sophistication of this …

Read moreCelebrating Whisky Month with Johnnie Walker Blue Label: Exceptional Cocktails for Every Occasion

30 years of democracy: The electrification of South African households

Location: News

30 years of democracy: The electrification of South African households

Despite a myriad of challenges – both present and past – along the way, the South African government through Eskom and municipalities has made great strides towards achieving universal access to electricity in the country.

This came out during a roundtable on the electrification programme since 1994 hosted by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).

According to the Eskom website, in 1987, fewer than 13 million people had access to electricity with the vast majority of that access servicing white households – leaving other population groups reeling in the dark.

At the dawn of democracy in 1994, Parliament endorsed a plan to create universal access to electricity – defined at some 97% due to population growth and challenges related to the formalisation of informal settlements.

This charged government’s wholesale plan to electrify homes. Now, access to electricity in South Africa today is at least 94% according to Statistics South Africa.

Director Project Monitoring and Intergovernmental Relations at the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, Lufuno Madzhie, said the electrification programme has thus far, been a success.

“[During 1994 to 1998] Eskom and municipalities only electrified 2.5 million households. In 2001, then government decided this [electrification] programme needs to reside within the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy [DMRE]. Through us as the department, working with different stakeholders, we have achieved a lot with regard to this electrification programme.

“Through this programme, the department has achieved a huge milestone. Currently, we have electrified over 8.3 million households,” he said.

Eskom’s Pozisa Njezula emphasised how access to electricity improves the welfare of households and explained how Eskom contributes to facilitating access for hard-to-reach rural areas.

“[It allows for the] improving on safety where we no longer have to use candles and paraffin stoves. It improves on convenience where we no longer have to collect wood to cook and also, in terms of improving on education where kids can study at night.

“With…us now pushing towards universal access, the challenge that we are now faced with is that we now have to reach the far-flung areas. The far corners in all the rural areas. With the support from the DMRE, as Eskom we have started and embarked on the rolling out of micro grids for those far-flung areas where you may not be able to get grid electricity because of losses as well as the amount of money that you would have to spend to get to those areas.

“The [micro grid] is just a container, it has solar panels, it has got batteries and then you’ve got the reticulation network. When you get to a certain area, you electrify it off grid and those people benefit,” she said.

Challenges and solutions

Njezula bemoaned that although the electrification programme is going full steam ahead, the power utility faces serious and dangerous challenges when going into communities.

“We are not immune as Eskom to the crime [and] extortion in our project sites. In South Africa, with almost all the projects that are being undertaken, there’s reports of these extortions and these demands for certain amounts of money, for protection fees and so forth.

“That delays the progress in our projects, and it really puts the lives of our employees as well as our contractors in danger. In some instances, we have to leave site, we need to be escorted, we need protection,” she said.

Head of energy and electricity distribution at the South African Local Government Association, Nhlanhla Ngidi, described South Africa’s electrification plan as a “moving target”.

“In terms of access itself, at 94%, I think it’s very important that people understand because this is a moving target. In a year’s time, you could find this being below 94% and it’s because of all these challenges…people moving towards where the economy is more active.

“Municipalities have done quite well but with the capacity challenges we have, we still need municipalities to be assisted and government needs to put in place agencies that can come in and be catalysts in terms of the implementation of the programme,” he said.

Energy expert, Chris Yelland, agreed that access to electricity has improved but warned that affordability remains a blockage to some households.

“[There] are some technology developments that require that we look at these distant rural customers. The first thing of course is renewable energy. The price of renewable energy…has come down dramatically over the last ten years. This is now opening the doors to renewable energy for remote households that never existed ten years ago.

“There’s a lot to celebrate in electrification [but] there’s a lot to do about affordability. We are not there yet. We need to understand where we come from, where we are and where we’re going and for that we need data…so that we know where we are and where we’re going” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 05/14/2024 - 14:06

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Read more30 years of democracy: The electrification of South African households

KZN tourism entrepreneurs set to showcase province’s rich culture at Indaba

Location: News

KZN tourism entrepreneurs set to showcase province’s rich culture at Indaba

As thousands of delegates attending Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) 2024 descend on Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, emerging tourism entrepreneurs participating in the event are set to showcase their businesses and the province’s rich culture and history.

The Travel Indaba, which kicks off from 13 to 16 May 2024 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC), brings together exhibitors from various African nations and buyers worldwide to showcase a collection of products from across the African tourism sector.

The event also emphasises capacity building and knowledge sharing, benefiting all attendees, including smaller and emerging businesses in the industry.

READ | SMMEs gear up for Africa’s Travel Indaba

The Travel Indaba is expected to be attended by delegates from 26 African countries, including 120 small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs).

Among the KZN entrepreneur exhibitors is Nkosikhona Ndlovu, the man behind Amangonyama Tour Operator, a 100% Black-owned company in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. 

Ndlovu said his aim is to deliver safety, education, and unforgettable experiences for his clients attending the indaba.

“For me, Africa’s Travel Indaba is a huge opportunity to showcase what we offer and to engage with potential buyers from across Africa. I am hoping to make valuable connections and secure future business opportunities,” Ndlovu said.

Entrepreneur Msizeni Mngadi, who is the owner of Indlondlo Cultural Village in the Valley of a Thousand Hills, said he is passionate about introducing visitors to the Zulu culture.

Mngadi noted that Indlondlo Cultural Village is not just a destination, but a portal into the heart and soul of the Zulu people. 

“Here, visitors have the opportunity to delve into the essence of Zulu tradition through guided tours of traditional homesteads, captivating displays of dance and drumming, and interactive activities that allow for a hands-on exploration of Zulu customs,” Ndlovu said.

IMAGES (Source: Africa's Travel Indaba/X) | Africa Tourism Indaba BONDAY discussions

BONday discussions in full swing. BONday discussions in full swing. BONday discussions in full swing.

 

Danica Bartho, who owns Biweda Nguni Lodge and Tandweni Villa with her mother in the heart of Zululand, Northern KZN, said they are eager to showcase their projects to the world at ATI 2024.

Biweda Nguni Lodge offers a blend of comfort and affordability, with farmhouse charm, while Tandweni Villa offers a luxurious safari experience.

With a focus on empowerment and skill development, Bartho and her team provide a safe haven for previously disadvantaged women to flourish within the tourism industry.

“This [ATI] is not just about business, it is about forging connections, sharing stories, and opening doors to new opportunities and continuing our commitment to empowering women and promoting sustainable tourism,” Bartho said.

The ATI event kicks off with the Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay) on 13 May 2024.

BONDay is tailored to foster thought leadership and share global tourism insights under four streams: unlimited, discover, connect, and grow. 

The day is crucial for advancing knowledge and exploring new opportunities in the tourism sector, offering invaluable networking opportunities, thought leadership discussions, and insights into global trends.

Welcoming Africa’s Travel Indaba back to the province, KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, said Africa’s Travel Indaba plays a significant role in KwaZulu-Natal tourism growth and has an immeasurable impact on the province’s economy. 

“Again, this year, we will have several emerging tourism entrepreneurs participating as part of the Tourism KZN Tourism Enterprise Development Programme to afford them an opportunity to showcase their businesses and lock business deals to help them grow in the sector,” Duma said.

EThekwini Municipality Economic Development and Planning Committee Chairperson, Thembo Ntuli, emphasised the significance of the indaba for Durban, saying it is an instrumental platform for the tourism industry, which is firmly on the road to recovery. 

“The show has become synonymous with the city of Durban, as we have hosted this critical tourism showcase over many years. The city’s economy will benefit immensely from hosting this three-day long trade showcase as hotel occupancy is expected to be between 85% and 95%. 

“In addition, local tourism products and community tourism organisations are ready and eager to engage with buyers, tour operators, and travel agencies to continue selling Durban as the destination of choice,” Ntuli said.

The 2023 edition witnessed remarkable growth, with a nearly 62% increase in attendance and over 1 033 exhibiting companies, attracting 8 688 delegates from 22 countries, and contributed R451 546 283 to eThekwini's GDP and R597 051 772 to KwaZulu-Natal, underscoring the event's significance. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 12:26

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Read moreKZN tourism entrepreneurs set to showcase province’s rich culture at Indaba

SMMEs gear up for Africa’s Travel Indaba

Location: News

SMMEs gear up for Africa’s Travel Indaba

With just one day to go until the start of Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) 2024, over 120 hopeful and excited small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) are gearing up for the highlight of their marketing calendars.

Themed, 'Unlocking Opportunities', the renowned Africa Travel Indaba, which will take place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, from 13 to 16 May 2024, is expected to connect the tourism industry with unlimited opportunities.

The event is expected to be attended by 9 000 delegates from over 25 countries.

Acting CEO for Tourism KwaZulu-Natal (TKZN), Sibusiso Gumbi, said of the 120 SMMEs, 15 are KwaZulu-Natal-based SMMEs, which are part of TKZN's Tourism Enterprise Development Programme. 

Gumbi said the SMMEs will be using every opportunity to showcase and sell their products and services to the thousands of domestic and international travel buyers attending the indaba. 

“These fledgling businesses exhibiting on the TKZN stand have an integral part to play in the growth and development of the tourism sector. SMMEs not only contribute to job creation but are important for bringing new products to market and creating jobs,” Gumbi said.

Whilst most outbound travel is dominated by corporates, Gumbi noted that 80% of those serving the inbound market are small owner-managed operations. 

“In fact, small businesses account for more than 80% of the tourism industry as a whole.

“We want SMMEs to grow into substantial players in this critical sector of our economy. However, we know transformation will not occur spontaneously but requires deliberate and sustained effort from all stakeholders. 

“For this reason, we have implemented various programmes to ensure that our SMMEs get the much deserved and needed support. Enabling SMMEs to attend ATI is one of the ways in which we assist emerging tourism businesses,” Gumbi said.

EThekwini Municipality’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Chairperson, Thembo Ntuli said the city’s economy will benefit immensely from hosting this four-day event. 

“Hotel occupancy is expected to be between 85% and 95%. The total expected spending is estimated at R177 million, contributing R439 million to eThekwini’s GDP with 796 jobs to be created,” Ntuli said. SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Sun, 05/12/2024 - 09:17

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Read moreSMMEs gear up for Africa’s Travel Indaba

Looking past the elections: A more courageous role for big business in delivering the promises of the Constitution

Location: MyPR

Professor Brian Ganson is Head of the Centre on Conflict & Collaboration at Stellenbosch Business School, a hub for research and reflection on the private sector, conflict, and human security. We already know that whatever new governments emerge at local, provincial, and national levels due to voting on 29 May, they will face overwhelming challenges …

Read moreLooking past the elections: A more courageous role for big business in delivering the promises of the Constitution

PRASA reaches milestone with production of 200 trains

Location: News

PRASA reaches milestone with production of 200 trains

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has achieved a significant train production milestone with the 200 modern high-tech Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) manufactured in Gauteng.

“The first train set hit our railway tracks in February 2017. Today, we celebrate this progress made towards the overarching goal of 600 trains. With these new trains, we are contributing towards the reduction of carbon emissions and the promotion of sustainable transportation alternatives,” Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga said on Tuesday in Cape Town.

These efforts are part of PRASA’s Rolling Stock Fleet Renewal Programme which will, among other things, see the manufacturing of new trains. The programme is expected to create approximately 1 500 direct and 8000 indirect jobs over the 10-year period.

“As part of the first phase of the programme, 1 631 direct jobs have been created during the construction phase of the R1 billion factory, and Gibela has now employed over 1 198 full time employees.

“As this government we understand the need to create jobs that will benefit local communities. The workforce comes from local communities such as Duduza, Vosloorus, Katlehong, Kwa-Thema, Tsakane and Alfra-Park have benefitted from this project,” the Minister said.

In addition to the construction jobs, Gibela has employed a total of 1 205 people for both manufacturing and maintenance activities, 37% of those 1 205 come from immediate communities.

“Skills development and knowledge transfer is key for this government. About 20 000 training programmes have been established to enable the transfer of skills and development of employees from top management to unskilled employees.

“In 2019 Gibela Rail in partnership with Small Enterprise Development Agency and City of Ekurhuleni established a multi-sector business incubator, the doors opened in 2020 in the Kwa-Thema Township,” she said.

To date there are 140 Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) that were trained, mentored and coached. A total of 193 SMMEs also accessed Business Development Support.

“Gibela provides bursaries for universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, internships, learnerships, apprenticeships, a railway introduction course and other relevant programmes.

“Through these interventions, we are helping to nurture the next generation of skilled and capable individuals who will not only improve their own futures, but also the futures of their families, communities, and our larger society.

“Since the inception of the programme, we have contracted 1 665 bursars and spent over R127 million towards their studies,” Chikunga said.

Not only is government revitalising the railway and manufacturing industry through skills development that will reignite the industry at large, PRASA is also changing the lives of the previously disadvantaged people and the livelihoods of communities.

“Our young people are now trained as artisans, engineering technicians, technologists and designers, just to name a few. The investment made includes R135 million invested in Enterprise and Supplier Development initiatives, developing SMMEs.

“A total of R743 million has been invested in skills development to support inclusion in the rail sector. Over this 10-year period, Gibela has committed to train and develop 19 500 individuals in various skills such as engineers, artisans, technicians, and technologists.

“These were the contractual obligations that Gibela had to undertake as part of this 10-year project,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

nosihle
Tue, 04/23/2024 - 13:08

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Read morePRASA reaches milestone with production of 200 trains