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By Mitchan Adams, founder of Venture Builder, Aions Creative Technology In South Africa, there are more than two million small, micro, and medium enterprises (SMMEs), which represent more than 98% of formal business, and employ 50-60% of our labour force and contribute 34% towards GDP. But – South Africa has the world’s highest failure rate …
Citizens urged to reflect on 30 years of freedom
As South Africa marks 30 Years of Freedom, citizens have been urged to remember how far government has come in improving the lives of South Africans and undoing the damaging legacy of apartheid.
“As we mark 30 Years of Freedom, we must not exercise our reflections and recollections without remembering exactly where we’ve come from or without acknowledging what has confronted us as a society in our journey to here,” Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said in Cape Town.
Addressing a joint debate on the State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Wednesday, the Minister said despite the global economic meltdown of 2007 and 2008 as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, government has continued to provide economic opportunities for citizens.
“Tintswalo or the Black Diamonds as they are generally referred to or the national breadwinners as they called themselves during the COVID19 vaccination period, continue to lead the installation of digital connectivity in deep-rural KwaZulu-Natal and other provinces. They work as young black and women engineers at our power stations,” the Minister said.
She said government has also provided opportunities for young people to work side by side to create a sovereign launch capability that has allowed the country to take satellite technologies into space and they are the bedrock of the more than 10 000 small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) that are suppliers to the National School Nutrition Programme.
The Minister said that young people are the engineers and contractors behind the more than 750 000 km road network from 525 000 km in 1995.
“Yes, some of the provincial and municipal roads have potholes but we are intervening. Currently South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has taken over 2 600 km of roads transferred from provinces so we can use its road construction and maintenance capacity to deliver better roads and with more under consideration,” she said.
She added that in the past five-years, SANRAL has executed projects to the value of R120 billion, which translated to just under 45 000 job opportunities and the participation of almost 6500 black owned SMMEs.
“Just this January, SANRAL announced another R28 billion injection into the industry with the implementation of over 70 projects. SANRAL’s work to improve the country’s road network is complemented by Operation Valazonke aimed at closing potholes on municipal roads across all municipalities. We are aware that some municipalities are progressing faster than others,” Ntshavheni said.
Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa
The Minister affirmed that work is underway to rebuild the network industries to ensure it services the country more effectively.
“Despite the teething challenges, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has restored operations on 26 out of 40 commuter rail corridors following disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the criminality that vandalised our rail infrastructure.
“Of these restored service lines, 19 of them are operated with the new trains. PRASA has received 184 new trains that have been built in Nigel, Ekurhuleni. In addition, 276 Metrorail coaches have been upgraded or refurbished, 97 train stations have been refurbished, and 29 cooperatives are responsible for cleaning and basic maintenance of these stations.
“Through the capital spend, PRASA created more than 46 000 job opportunities. Even Transnet is starting to register a turn-around at its operations with the arrival of critical equipment, irrespective of the weather – those containers can be loaded and offloaded at the harbour.”
Promoting public employment
She noted that eight consecutive Quarterly Labour Force surveys have indicated an improvement in the unemployment situation in the country – with 16.7 million people in employment by the end of the third quarter of 2023 – the first to surpass the pre-COVID-19 employment levels.
“Although six million youth are now in employment, the challenge of youth unemployment like the world over remains. It is for that reason that President [Cyril] Ramaphosa led the establishment of initiatives like the Youth Employment Service (YES) in partnership with private-sector partners.
“YES has created over 130 000 work experiences for young people to date. Over 1.7 million work and livelihood opportunities for unemployed South Africans have been created through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which prioritised predominantly youth and women.”
Key achievements in the stimulus include:
“The SA Youth Mobi platform was launched, which provides pathways for young people to employment, learning and youth enterprise. To date, over 4.8 million young people have registered on the platform and more than one million have been placed in earning opportunities.
“The National Youth Service has been revitalised, offering young people opportunities to undertake work that builds the community and provides them with skills, self-confidence and work experience. Over 47 000 participants were placed in the first phase of the National Youth Service,” the Minister said.
She said all these achievements have been made possible by South Africans who consider it their duty to be part of transforming the country and undoing the damaging legacy of apartheid.
“The work done during the sixth administration and 30 years under the democratic dispensation is to ensure we leave no-one behind, despite the hand this President’s tenure was dealt,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 09:12
CAPE TOWN, 30 January 2024: Africa’s Green Economy Summit, taking place from 21-23 February 2024 in Cape Town, not only features the continent’s major sustainability thought leaders, but also provides a springboard for companies operating in the green sector to sell themselves to investors. The event brings together key African stakeholders – including investors, project …
In the realm of payment technology, there’s a growing trend of companies offering innovative solutions that simplify and secure the way transactions are conducted. A key development in this sector is the introduction of contactless card payment technology that can be integrated directly into mobile phones. This approach allows merchants to accept payments without the …
Upgrades on R57 set to commence
The Gauteng MEC for Transport and Logistics, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has officially turned the sod, marking the beginning of upgrades on the P122/1 (R57) Road in Irene in the City of Tshwane.
The includes the upgrade of the P122 single carriageway, spanning approximately 9.4km from Olifantsfontein to Solomon Mahlangu Drive.
During the rehabilitation launch on Thursday, Diale-Tlabela said the upgrades that the department is undertaking will not only benefit the people of Gauteng in terms of construction.
“The project will also assist in transforming the lives of the people who reside in Wards 47, 83, 71, 91, and 65, which are the communities that will be affected by the rehabilitation works,” she said.
The scope of work in this project involves the reconstruction of the existing road, construction of paved shoulders, upgrading of intersections along the route, and widening the existing cross-section with broader traffic lanes.
"To ensure fairness and inclusivity, we will prioritise the affected municipal wards when procuring services, giving local small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) the chance to actively participate in this transformative initiative.
“If capable service providers cannot be found within these communities, SMMEs from outside the wards, but within the provincial boundary, will also be considered,” the MEC said.
The project also saw three Community Liaison Officers (CLOs) from the affected wards being appointed to ensure that the project is delivered within the allocated time and that the voice of the community is heard throughout the delivery stages of the project.
The MEC called on communities to ensure that the works continue uninterrupted and avoid any actions that may impede the speedy delivery of the project.
“This project will undoubtedly bring about significant changes but it is crucial for all of us to ensure its proper care. In case of grievances against any party involved in the works, we must avoid halting or interrupting the project rollout programme,” said Diale-Tlabela. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 01/26/2024 - 09:02
Suitable for Both Small Businesses and Large Enterprises, New Cloud-based Platform Streamlines Management of LG Digital Signage Solutions BARCELONA, Jan. 26, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) is set to unveil its innovative cloud solution platform, LG Business Cloud, at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2024. The convenient, new platform allows business customers to browse and subscribe …
Condolences for Violet Siwela
Minister of Small Business Development Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams has paid tribute to the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Small Business Development, Violet Siwela, for serving the committee with distinction.
In a statement on Thursday, Ndabeni-Abrahams expressed her heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, comrades and her political home, the African National Congress.
“Her sad passing marks the end of a life that was selflessly dedicated to serving the people of South Africa, in particular the informal traders, cooperatives, micro, small and medium enterprises ecosystem.
“Inspired by her proud legacy, we pledge to continue working tirelessly to ensure the growth and sustainability of small businesses. In her name and in honour of her legacy, we commit to ensure that the National Small Enterprise Amendment Bill is passed,” the Minister said.
The Bill seeks to amend the National Small Enterprise Act to provide for the establishment of the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEDFA) and the subsequent disestablishment of the Small Enterprise Financing Agency (Sefa), the Co-operative Banks Development Agency (CBDA) and the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda); and for the establishment of the Office of the Small Enterprise Ombud Service.
The Bill further enables the Minister to declare certain practices in relation to small enterprises to be prohibited as unfair trading practices and to make regulations with regard thereto.
“The successful passing of this Bill will be a fitting tribute to her commitment, dedication and passion for small business development,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 10:50
The Hollywood Foundation, renowned for its commitment to Enterprise and Supplier Development, proudly hosted the third edition of the Bambelela Business Awards in Limpopo on January 18, 2024. This distinguished event served as a platform to recognise and celebrate the achievements of local heroes who have made a positive impact on the communities of Limpopo. …
Over 900 Tourism Equity Fund applications initiated
A total of 985 applications for the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF) have been initiated by prospective applicants with 131 completed applications submitted that meet all application requirements.
This follows the opening of the TEF application process for businesses on 6 November 2023.
The Department of Tourism, together with the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa), an agency within the Department of Small Business Development, announced the opening of the application process for TEF on 2 November 2023, after Cabinet’s approval in September 2023 for the revised TEF implementation in September 2023.
The R1.2 billion fund aims to increase growth, transformation and stimulate more inclusive participation in the tourism sector in line with the targets of the Tourism Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Sector Codes.
The TEF is intended to address the funding challenges faced by Qualifying Small Enterprises and Emerging Micro Enterprises in the tourism sector.
According to a Sefa report, the 131 submitted applications represent a combined investment value of just over R2 billion.
Sefa reported that some of the 131 applications formally submitted have already been pre-screened, while pre-screening for the remaining applications will be completed by the end of the year.
Although no specific information is available yet on the type of enterprises, or the nature of projects for which TEF support have been applied for, Sefa’s preliminary report that 45 of the registered applications originated from Gauteng, 21 from KwaZulu-Natal, while between 10 and 14 applications were submitted between Limpopo, North West, Western Cape and Eastern Cape and with only one from the Free State.
Subsequent to basic or pre-screening, Sefa explained that the applications are subjected to a due diligence process, which includes a more detailed assessment of financial viability, Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA) compliance and reporting, credit and legal checks before preparation for presentation to the relevant investment committee for final adjudication.
“Depending on the readiness of projects, the applications may potentially be presented at upcoming committee meetings that Sefa has provisionally scheduled in Quarter 4 between January and March 2024,” the agency explained.
Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille, said the department is encouraged by the level of interest and applications to the Tourism Equity Fund, which is aimed at driving empowerment and transformation to support the growth of new and emerging enterprises in the tourism sector.
“This is in line with our aims as government to support investment by the private sector to grow an inclusive tourism sector that can continue to contribute to the country’s economy and job creation. We will continue to keep businesses and the public updated on this important project in the coming weeks and months,” de Lille said.
The TEF will be implemented by:
• Assessing and scoring applications against jobs to be sustained and/or jobs to be created, location and geographic spread, and targeted groups (youth, women, and people with disabilities).
• Department of Tourism and Sefa in partnership with banking and/or financial institutions in the Republic of South Africa, which includes, amongst others, banks and developmental finance institutions that will offer affordable and tailor-made financial solutions, in an attempt to close funding gaps in the market, through the provision of a blended finance solution.
• Disbursing a total of 80% of the TEF funds to existing Small Medium and Micro Enterprises in the market to enable these businesses to grow. The remaining allocation of 20% of the funds will be disbursed to new businesses.
The Minister said Sefa will implement, execute, and manage the fund through a fund management agreement signed with the Department of Tourism. The department will support and monitor the implementation of the TEF on a monthly basis.
“The funding structure comprises grant funding, and debt financing, to meet the distinct needs of tourism enterprises that are either seeking equity acquisition, investment in new developments, or expansion of their existing businesses.
“The fund will focus on tourism enterprises in the accommodation, hospitality and related sectors-, and travel and related services-subsectors. The TEF will consider applications for start-ups, acquisitions, expansion and development projects in line with the Tourism B-BBEE sector codes,” de Lille said.
With consideration of Regulation Gazette No 11067, Volume 697, No 49018 published on 25 July 2023, withdrawing Regulation Gazette No 11241, Volume 668 of 19 February 2021. No 44172, all applicants (including previous applicants) are encouraged to submit new applications that will align with the new qualifying criteria of TEF.
For more information on the Tourism Equity Fund and the application process visit: https://www.tourism.gov.za/CurrentProjects/Tourism_Equity_Fund/Pages/Tourism_Equity_Fund.aspx. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Fri, 12/22/2023 - 08:12
Government refurbishes Wolwekloof Nature Reserve project to attract tourists
Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille has handed over the multimillion rand refurbished Wolwekloof Nature Reserve Project in the Witzenberg Municipality to CapeNature in the Western Cape.
The multimillion rand infrastructure maintenance project was funded by the Department of Tourism with the intension to stimulate demand by investing in tourist attractions to build and diversify the country’s tourism offerings.
“Tourism is a key sector in our economy, injecting billions into the economy each year and providing much needed jobs for our people. We must therefore continue to work with urgency and work as partners to grow our tourism offering so that we attract more tourists to our beautiful country. The more tourists we welcome, the more investment and jobs the tourism sector can create,” the Minister said on Tuesday.
The Wolwekloof Resort in the Witzenberg Municipality, near Ceres, was one of the few facilities that people of colour could visit during the apartheid era and it was a place of many great memories for families and friends.
In recent years, the facility was closed to the public and was used by various government user departments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) until a few years ago when Cape Nature was afforded the opportunity to take over management of the resort.
“The maintenance work at the Wolwekloof Resort sought to preserve the quality of product offerings at the identified site, as well as enhance the visitors’ experience and destination competitiveness.
“The scope of work entailed upgrading the existing pools, installing a new pool slide and installing new fencing to pools, construction of new braai areas and construction of walkways. The project site was handed over for implementation in December 2022 with a contract value of R3.7 million and reached practical completion earlier this year,” the Minister said.
This project is part of the national maintenance and beautification of provincial State-owned attractions, which initially were a part of the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme.
Throughout the duration of the contract implementation, the project has provided employment to 11 general workers of which six were youth who have assisted in duties such as bricklaying, painting, paving and plumbing including any general construction duties.
Opportunities were also offered to six Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), who participated in skilled labour such as works installation and repairs.
Apart from the work done by the Department of Tourism’s contractor at the Wolwekloof Resort, the department also conducted infrastructure maintenance work at several other sites in the Western Cape.
“The investment by government into these projects is critical to our mission to provide quality and enjoyable tourist attractions to local and international visitors. Infrastructure investment by government is about creating the conditions for further investment and job creation by the private sector.
“We are also pleased that these projects have been able to employ people from surrounding communities to assist with job creation and poverty alleviation measures by government. Although the Department of Tourism’s work at Wolwekloof is now complete, CapeNature is still conducting an extensive amount of work in a phased approach,” the Minister said.
The Wolwekloof Resort project is still in phase one with more work to be done on the water and electricity infrastructure at the site by CapeNature in the next three phases.
CapeNature’s vision is to reinstitute the site for recreational and leisure purposes with a modern twist.
“While we hoped the facility could be opened in time for the peak summer tourism period, CapeNature will be completing a range of important work to get the site up to standard and envisages to open the resort to the public in the Spring of 2024. It is my hope that we will continue to work as partners, all three spheres of government, together with CapeNature to restore this important tourist attraction to its former glory and upgrade it to be better than before,” De Lille said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 12/20/2023 - 10:20
Department to intensify efforts to pay service providers on time
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala has vowed to put an end to the failure to pay service providers in the construction industry within 30 days.
Minister Zikalala was speaking at the National Stakeholder Forum convened by the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) which is an entity of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI).
The National Stakeholder Forum is comprised of contractors in the built industry, government departments and municipalities involved in infrastructure development, built industry organisations and councils, institutions of higher learning and other key players in the built environment industry.
The forum was convened in order for the Minister to gain insight from players in the industry and go through emerging trends and developments, respond to threats and new opportunities emerging within the sector.
“We will commence engagements with all contractors not paid on time. It is time that we fight bribery and corruption where payments are delayed in order to force them to pay. We are alarmed at the allegations that outstanding invoices amount to billions. We will intensify the Re a Patala campaign in all provinces,” said the Minister.
Re Ya Patala (We Pay) was launched by the DPWI October 2009 as means to address payment backlogs to service providers.
Responding to challenges faced by small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) and emerging contractors around access to finance, Zikalala noted the historic partnership between the CIDB and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) for construction industry financing mechanisms to focus on financing small and medium contractors and cooperatives involved in the construction sector.
The partnership under consideration will see the CIDB contribute up to R150 million and SEFA matching that with R150 million over the medium term.
“The struggle faced by SMME’s in the construction sector requires innovation. Many collapse because they do not have access to finance and loans for building materials and other resources. We need to develop a finance institution led by the industry to support contractors,” said the Minister.
Stakeholders have implored the Minister to investigate and report on the escalating rate of the cancellation of tenders, especially big tenders by parastatals and institutions which is costing the construction industry billions of rands.
The forum noted that big state entities cancel tenders after contractors have spent money and time putting together infrastructure.
Career paths
Meanwhile, the Minister raised concern over the slow pace in which the built environment industry is advancing the career path of professionals.
“The DPWI is worried that there are suspicions of gatekeeping. At least over 30 000 professionals have been kept at the candidacy level for a longer period of time. There seems to be no appetite to graduate them and empower them with skills relevant to their qualifications,” said the DPWI.
The department, through one of its entities, the Council for the Built Environment (CBE), will establish a national logbook to track progress in this area.
The entity has also been tasked with standardising the process of how one obtains professional recognition within the industry.
The CBE will strengthen its relationship with tertiary institutions and councils to accelerate the preparation, mentoring and registration of students at lower academic levels. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 12/14/2023 - 09:21
The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) has approved a $300 million loan to South Africa to implement its Energy Governance and Climate Resilience Programme.
The Programme prepared in collaboration with other development partners including the World Bank and KfW Development Bank (KfW), will help advance South Africa's energy transition.
It will spur economic growth by furthering structural reforms to restore energy security, promote private sector participation in the electricity market and enhance the operational efficiency of the national power utility Eskom in line with South Africa's Energy Action Plan and the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JET IP) 2023–2027.
The Programme will accelerate mitigation and adaptation efforts by promoting renewable energy generation and shifting businesses to low-carbon activities, resulting in lowering the carbon footprint of the South African economy and improving financing for green projects. These expected outcomes align with South Africa's updated Nationally Determined Contribution and the country's Long-term Low-Emissions Development Strategy.
It will ensure the security and affordability of energy for families and small businesses. It will enable the government to increase budget allocations to connect electricity to poor households and establish a mechanism to encourage families and micro- and medium-sized businesses to invest in renewable energy.
The reform priorities discussed with the Government are designed to complement and create synergies with existing support from the African Development Bank and other development finance institutions for the Just Energy Transition.
Through a $629 800 (470 000 UA) grant with co-financing from the Climate Insurance Fund, the Bank will provide support to ensure affected communities are not left behind, crowd in more women as decision-makers and support young entrepreneurs, especially women, to build skills and create jobs for the green economy.
South Africa's country's Energy Governance and Climate Resilience Programme aligns with the African Development Bank's ‘High 5' strategic priorities, especially "Light up and Power Africa", "Industrialise Africa", and "Improve the quality of life for the people of Africa".
Welcoming the operation, Mrs Leila Mokaddem, Director General for Southern Africa, noted the Bank's long-term support to South Africa's energy sector. Energy has the largest share of the Bank's portfolio at 43.4%. The programme complements this support and aligns with the recently approved Country Strategy Paper (CSP) for South Africa, which recognizes the centrality of Energy reforms to achieve economic growth and improve business confidence.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
Editor's note: A previous version of this press release issued 31 October 2023, included references to potential contribution from the Government of Canada. This has been removed.
Media Contact:
Mansour Diouf
Communication and External Relations Department
Email: media@afdb.org
About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org.
New reservoir to enhance water supply to Boksburg community
The City of Ekurhuleni has commissioned a new 30 megalitre (ML) water reservoir to benefit communities and businesses in Rondebult, Mapleton, Roodekop Industries and Klippoortjie in Boksburg, Gauteng.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Water, Sanitation and Energy, Thembi Msane, announced the launch of the new Cossins mega reservoir in the City of Ekurhuleni on Friday.
Msane said a total of 21 983 residential and business stands will be supplied by the reservoir.
“The Cossins reservoir zone has the potential to supply an additional 53 606 stands when linked to the Dawn Park supply zone. This is part of the flagship initiative by the City of Ekurhuleni aimed at providing security of water supply to residents and businesses,” Msane said.
Msane said the project comprised the construction of the new 30ML Cossins Reservoir, with associated pipe work on site and the upgrading of the supply pipe from a Rand Water connection (RW4529).
“Before the commissioning of the reservoir, the available storage on the site comprised a single 8ML reservoir supplied from the RW1461 connection via a bulk supply pipeline that ran on the right-hand side of Rondebult Road towards the South,” Msane said.
The scope of the work done included the construction of concrete chambers, complete with the required meters, pipe specials, control and isolation valves to ensure effective operation of the system, a paved access road and clear view fencing.
Msane said the project has created a total of 43 job opportunities and sub-contracting opportunities for four local small, medium and micro enterprises. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 12/10/2023 - 09:11
Commission recommends a CPI plus 3% adjustment in National Minimum Wage
The National Minimum Wage (NMW) Commission has issued another invitation to interested parties to submit written representations concerning possible adjustments to South Africa’s national minimum wage in 2024.
The Department of Employment and Labour said the commission had three proposals on its table after it issued an invitation to interested parties to submit written representations concerning next year’s wage increase.
“The NMW Commission has published a report in the government gazette with the intention to present the commission’s report and recommendations on the annual review of the national minimum wage and also invite written representations from the public,” the department said.
A minimum wage is the lowest remuneration employers can legally pay their employees for each ordinary hour worked. It is illegal for an employer to pay employees less than this minimum floor.
The three proposals tabled in the report are as follows:
• The recommendation by the majority is Consumer Price Index (CPI) plus 3%. Eight of the 12 commissioners propose that the national minimum wage increases by CPI plus 3%.
• The recommendation by the Business Constituency is CPI.
• The recommendation by an independent expert is CPI plus 0.75%.
“The CPI is a measure of the change in prices as paid by consumers for goods and services over time. In South Africa, the latest consumer price inflation as published by Statistics South Africa was 5.9% in October 2023, up from 5.4% in September 2023,” the department said.
The commission’s latest invitation for inputs follows similar calls in August and September in accordance with section 6(2) of the National Minimum Wage Act, No. 9 of 2018.
The commission comprises representatives from organised labour, business, community and experts in the field of labour market and conditions of employment.
In 2021, the commission recommended increasing the national minimum wage from R20.76 to R21.69 per hour. The 2022 national minimum wage was revised from R21.69 to R23.19 per hour. In 2023 the minimum wage was revised to R25.42 per hour.
Factors considered by the commission in the annual adjustment include inflation, the cost of living, and the need to retain the value of the minimum wage; wage levels and collective bargaining outcomes; gross domestic product; the ability of employers to carry on their businesses successfully; the operation of small, medium or micro-enterprises and new enterprises; and impact on employment or the creation of employment.
Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi will announce in February 2024 the new rate of adjustment, which will come into operation from 1 March 2024.
The public has until 8 January 2024 to make their written representations.
Requests for inputs should be sent to the directorate: Employment Standards, Department of Employment and Labour, Private Bag X117, Pretoria, 0001 or be sent to nmwreview@labour.gov.za. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 12/08/2023 - 13:31
Gauteng officially opens upgraded K73 Allandale Road
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has officially opened the upgraded K73 Allandale Road, in Midrand, Johannesburg.
“Gauteng as the economic hub of the country cannot be a province with lots of potholes or roads that are not well maintained. I am excited that this project was done within budget,” Lesufi said on Wednesday.
The multi-million rand road project involved the construction of a dual carriageway of the new road section between Montrose and Allandale Roads, upgrading of Woodmead Drive and Allandale Road as well as the construction of a bridge along the road.
The upgrade of the road has made a significant improvement in traffic flow by alleviating traffic congestion, making commuting and vehicle mobility smoother and more efficient around the Midrand area.
The project provided jobs to local communities and saw 34 small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) sub-contractors awarded construction work such as kerbing, paving, concrete channels, stormwater pipes, subsoils and ancillary works, plant hire, training as well as security.
“If a municipality can’t fix their roads….if a municipality is busy with squabbles, we will take over their function and fix the road.
“Beyond 2024, all spheres of government must review laws and regulations in improving infrastructure in government. We are building more roads and even the rules and regulations must be agile to accommodate changes,” Lesufi said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 11/22/2023 - 14:00
World Business Angels Investment Forum kicks off in Durban
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube will on Tuesday welcome hundreds of international delegates attending the World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF) 2023 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban.
The World Business Angels Investment Forum, an affiliated partner of the G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI), is a strategic global organisation whose mission is to ease access to finance for businesses from start up to scale up.
In 2021, the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, through the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, put forward a successful bid to host the WBAF 2023.
Dube-Ncube said hosting the gathering of global leaders is a welcome boost for the province, particularly because it aligns with the province’s economic recovery and development strategy, which puts supporting and financing innovation, start-ups and Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) at the centre.
She said the province also the event which brings together entrepreneurs, investors and policy makers from different parts of the globe, saying they will make meaningful connections and match-making for provincial local businesses.
“As we rebuild our economy, we recognise the importance of entrepreneurship and international investment. In particular, we welcome the fact that as an affiliate of G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI), WBAF 2023 focuses on the digital and business transformation of small businesses.
“There is also a special focus on the quality of local investors as part of efforts to increase financial inclusion in local economies in post-pandemic times,” Dube-Ncube said.
The meeting will take place from 21 - 22 November 2023. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 11/21/2023 - 10:06
Following the global celebration of World Kindness Day, Amazon Web Services staff embraced the ethos of kindness in a vibrant culinary collaboration alongside the V&A Waterfront, Makers Landing and SA Harvest, the food rescue and hunger relief organisation that has delivered almost 50 million meals in the four years since its launch. This heartwarming partnership …
Small business can stimulate economic growth, job creation
Focusing on Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) and cooperatives can trigger growth, create jobs and build a more inclusive economy, says President Cyril Ramaphosa.
“As a country, we need to get behind our entrepreneurs and SMMEs and strengthen the eco-system that supports them,” the President said.
The country’s first citizen was speaking on Friday night at the 2nd National Presidential SMME and Cooperatives Awards in Johannesburg.
The President told delegates the ceremony was pressing given the current volatile global times.
“Our prospects for a faster and more sustained recovery after COVID-19 have been set back amidst continued supply chain disruptions, high inflation and depressed market demand.
“Governments are under pressure to stimulate the economy and to provide more social relief, but with reduced fiscal resources.”
This is the reason he is of the view that SMMEs can stimulate growth and job creation.
He told guests he was encouraged by the work being done by the Department of Small Business Development since the launch of the third iteration of the country’s SMME strategy almost a year ago.
The National Small Enterprise Development Strategic Framework aims to use resources within the broader eco-system to build practical partnerships that enable entrepreneurship and SMME growth.
Government is establishing a new one-stop small enterprise agency that will bring together the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) and the Co-operatives Banks Development Agency (CBDA).
The strategic framework calls for concrete partnerships and actions in four areas. These include tackling the red tape and regulatory burdens that frustrate SMMEs.
“The Department of Small Business Development is also streamlining business licensing processes, with the Businesses Licensing Amendment Bill soon to be gazetted.
“But there is much more to be done. We know some of the frustrations which tech start-ups in particular have with foreign exchange controls that impede inward flows of venture capital, and affect the local registration of intellectual property.”
The other areas of focus entail addressing market concentration and enabling market access, especially for SMMEs owned by women, youth and other underserved communities; access to finance and entrepreneurship support.
“If we get this right, we can change the country’s fortunes.”
The current administration, he said, has set a target of establishing new 100 small enterprise incubators. To date, the state has established 110 with another 11 under development.
“It is encouraging that the number of people engaged in entrepreneurial activity has significantly increased.”
Citing the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, he said the working-age population involved in business start-ups in South Africa increased from 6.5% in 2001 to 17.5% in 2021.
“This clearly reaffirms what our National Development Plan envisioned, the creation of 11 million jobs by 2030 with nine million of these coming from small enterprises.
“We just need to scale up our interventions to create a conducive environment for SMMEs, and onboard other eco-system partners, especially the private sector, to play their part.”
He told the entrepreneurs in the room that citizens depended on their innovation and entrepreneurship to create the opportunities that would enable them to get the much-needed jobs.
“Congratulations to the winners and the runners-up. You have gone through a rigorous selection process and thoroughly deserve to be here. It is your dynamism and drive that will revitalise our economy and improve our global competitiveness.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 11/19/2023 - 10:25
Planning an end-of-year getaway is exciting, but for many plant parents the excitement of going away is tinged with worry at the thought of leaving their plants home alone. While some plants can survive a few days without water, a plan must be made for others if you’re planning a longer holiday. Tips for a …
The Milken Institute and the Motsepe Foundation (https://MilkenMotsepePrize.org) today announced the five teams (https://apo-opa.info/3tXVKZw) advancing to the Finalist Round of the Milken–Motsepe Prize in Green Energy. Each finalist team will receive $70,000 to further develop and test their designs in a live field test demonstration in South Africa next year.
The finalist teams are:
“Access to electricity can advance industrialization across Africa and improve the standards of living for many marginalized communities,” said Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, co-founder and CEO of the Motsepe Foundation. “These finalists are building innovative solutions to deliver on the promise of a sustainable future, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. We will be delighted to welcome them to South Africa for the live demonstrations next year.”
An independent panel of expert judges determined the five teams continuing to the Finalist Round based on a rigorous evaluation of real-world data.
Judges will continue to evaluate competing teams' abilities to meet the challenge of generating 60kWh of electricity in a 24-hour period by:
“These finalists have once again proven the value of the innovation competition model in driving breakthroughs,” said Emily Musil Church, PhD, senior director at the Milken Institute. “The Semifinalist Round pushed these teams to stretch their limits and build solutions that are scalable and life-changing for millions.”
To date, the competition has awarded US$750,000 to entrepreneurs testing bold ideas to expand access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity in Africa.
In May 2024, the judges will award a US$1 million Grand Prize. A runner-up prize of US$250,000 will also be awarded. In total, the Milken–Motsepe Prize in Green Energy will award over US$2 million in prizes and additional benefits.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Program.
Media Contact:
Chad Clinton
+1 (202) 262-1067
cclinton@milkeninstitute.org
About the Milken Institute:
The Milken Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank focused on accelerating measurable progress on the path to a meaningful life. With a focus on financial, physical, mental, and environmental health, we bring together the best ideas and innovative resourcing to develop blueprints for tackling some of our most critical global issues through the lens of what's pressing now and what's coming next. For more information, visit www.MilkenInstitute.org
About the Motsepe Foundation:
The Motsepe Foundation was founded in 1999 by Dr. Patrice Motsepe and his wife, Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe. The goal of the Motsepe Foundation is to contribute towards eradicating poverty and to sustainably improve the living conditions and standards of living of poor, unemployed, and marginalized people in South Africa, Africa, and the world. In January 2013, Dr. Patrice Motsepe and Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe joined the Giving Pledge, which was started by Warren Buffet and Bill and Melinda Gates. Dr. Patrice Motsepe and his wife committed to give half of their wealth to the poor and for philanthropic purposes during their lifetime and beyond.
Request for proposals for the Tourism Equity Fund opens.
The Department of Tourism together with the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (sefa), an agency within the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) is pleased to announce the opening of the application process for the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF) starting from Monday 6 November 2023.
Following the Cabinet's approval in September 2023 for the revised TEF to be implemented, we are delighted to announce that the Request for Proposals for funding from the TEF is now open to businesses.
The R1.2 billion TEF aims to increase growth, and transformation and stimulate more inclusive participation in the tourism sector in line with the targets of the Tourism B-BBEE Sector Codes. The TEF is intended to address the funding challenges faced by Qualifying Small Enterprises and Emerging Micro Enterprises in the tourism sector.
The TEF will be implemented by:
sefa will implement, execute, and manage the Fund through a Fund Management Agreement signed with the Department of Tourism. The Department will support and monitor the implementation of the TEF on a monthly basis.
The TEF places significant emphasis on providing support to tourism enterprises that meet the qualifying criteria, including a minimum of 30% Black ownership either before or after the financial support. The TEF is exclusively dedicated to investing in various sub-sectors within the tourism industry as prescribed in the Tourism B-BBEE Sector Codes.
The Department of Tourism is committed to enhancing transformation in the tourism sector, and the TEF aims to contribute towards achieving transformation goals in this important sector of our economy.
“The funding structure comprises grant funding, and debt financing, to meet the distinct needs of tourism enterprises that are either seeking equity acquisition, investment in new developments, or expansion of their existing businesses,” Minister de Lille said.
The TEF is backed by formidable public-private partnerships, which support the participation of private, commercial, and non-commercial banks, and various developmental funding institutions.
“The collaboration between public and private entities serves as a notable example of successful cooperation in advancing a more inclusive and prosperous tourism sector,” Minister de Lille added.
Minister de Lille concluded: “As stated before. the Department of Tourism remains committed to advancing the transformation agenda through creating equitable opportunities to realise an inclusive and revived tourism economy.”
With consideration of Regulation Gazette No 11067, Volume 697, No 49018 published on 25 July 2023, withdrawing Regulation Gazette No 11241, Volume 668 of 19 February 2021. No 44172, all applicants (including previous applicants) are encouraged to submit new applications that will align with the new qualifying criteria of TEF.
For more information on the Tourism Equity Fund and the application process, please visit the Department of Tourism's website: https://apo-opa.info/3QIzYSG
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Small Business Development, Republic of South Africa.
Tourism announces opening of application process for TEF
The Department of Tourism, together with the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa) - an agency within the Department of Small Business Development, has announced the opening of the application process for the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF) on Monday, 06 November 2023.
“Following Cabinet’s approval in September 2023 for the revised TEF to be implemented, we are delighted to announce that the Request for Proposals for funding from the TEF is now open to businesses,” the Department of Tourism said in a statement.
The R1.2 billion TEF aims to increase growth and transformation, and stimulate more inclusive participation in the tourism sector in line with the targets of the Tourism B-BBEE Sector Codes.
The TEF is intended to address the funding challenges faced by Qualifying Small Enterprises and Emerging Micro Enterprises in the tourism sector.
The TEF will be implemented by:
“Sefa will implement, execute and manage the Fund through a Fund Management Agreement signed with the Department of Tourism. The Department will support and monitor the implementation of the TEF on a monthly basis,” the department said.
The TEF places significant emphasis on providing support to tourism enterprises that meet the qualifying criteria, including a minimum of 30% Black ownership either before or after the financial support.
The TEF is exclusively dedicated to investing in various sub-sectors within the tourism industry as prescribed in the Tourism B-BBEE Sector Codes.
The department said it is committed to enhancing transformation in the tourism sector and the TEF aims to contribute towards achieving transformation goals in this important sector of the economy.
“The funding structure comprises grant funding, and debt financing, to meet the distinct needs of tourism enterprises that are either seeking equity acquisition, investment in new developments, or expansion of their existing businesses,” Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said.
The TEF is backed by public-private partnerships which support the participation of private, commercial, and non-commercial banks, and various developmental funding institutions.
“The collaboration between public and private entities serves as a notable example of successful cooperation in advancing a more inclusive and prosperous tourism sector.
“The Department of Tourism remains committed to advancing the transformation agenda through creating equitable opportunities to realise an inclusive and revived tourism economy,” de Lille said.
With consideration of Regulation Gazette No 11067, Volume 697, No 49018 published on 25 July 2023, withdrawing Regulation Gazette No 11241, Volume 668 of 19 February 2021. No 44172, all applicants (including previous applicants) are encouraged to submit new applications that will align with the new qualifying criteria of TEF.
For more information on the Tourism Equity Fund and the application process visit: https://www.tourism.gov.za/CurrentProjects/Tourism_Equity_Fund/Pages/Tourism_Equity_Fund.aspx - SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 11/02/2023 - 11:55
To reduce the increasing number of zero dose children in the Eastern Cape Province, the National Department of Health, planned a four-day Zero Dose training program for the province, fully funded by the WHO Regional Office for Africa, from 26-29 September 2023. The training took place in collaboration with United Nations (UN) partners, WHO South Africa and UNICEF. The training was designed to benefit senior program managers at the provincial, district, and sub-district levels, as well as facility staff responsible for disseminating knowledge to their constituencies. The training primarily focused on critically evaluating the status of zero dose children and developing micro plans to reach them, with a particular emphasis on the components of the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI).
Immunization is a global health and development success story, saving millions of lives every year and is a key component of primary health care and an indisputable human right. It's also one of the best health investments. Vaccines are also critical to the prevention and control of infectious diseases and outbreaks thereof. While the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI program) responsible for vaccines in South Africa in its schedule covers for eleven vaccine preventable diseases (VPDs), there are still children who do not have access to a single vaccine. These are called zero dose children.
The number of zero dose children has been increasing globally and South Africa is one of the priority countries for high zero dose children. Over the past 5 years, a total number of zero dose children in South Africa accumulated to almost 700,000 (682,967). In 2022 alone, South Africa recorded 147,674 and 19,127(15%) was from the Eastern Cape. The increasing immunity gaps due to the increasing zero dose children has contributed to the recent multiple vaccine preventable disease outbreaks which the country has battled, and this warrants urgent interventions to decrease morbidity and mortality due to VPDs.
The training focused on the all the components of EPI but mainly on critically reviewing where the zero dose children are, and developing micro plans aimed at reaching these children. Other topics covered included:
The way forward from the training was:
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) - South Africa.
Hollard International (https://apo-opa.info/3tUpGWD) will extend its footprint in Africa through the finalisation, on 31 October 2023, of an agreement to acquire a significant interest in Apollo Investments Limited, the holding company of Kenya-headquartered insurer APA Insurance.
This strategic investment, subject to regulatory approvals, gives Hollard International a presence in the East African market, supplementing its existing operations in Southern and West Africa.
Hollard becomes the second international investor in the Kenyan group, following Swiss Re, which acquired a stake in 2014.
For APA, the partnership gives Kenya's second-largest insurer access to a larger market and expanded opportunities for growth, says Ashok Shah, Group CEO of Apollo Investments Limited.
“It's an exciting time for APA because the Hollard International partnership will open new doors and new avenues of growth for our business. We'll have access to substantial new expertise in classes of business such as Motor, Engineering, Marine and other specialist lines of insurance – which we believe will open up a number of profitable business opportunities.”
Expressing the significance of the partnership, Shah notes, "In addition to expanding our operations in Kenya, this venture will also enable us to strengthen our foothold in Uganda and Tanzania. Moreover, it positions us favourably to seize opportunities in the Ethiopian market once it becomes accessible.”
Pravin Kalpagé, CEO of Hollard International, is equally upbeat about the transaction, heralding it as “a vote of confidence in the Kenyan and East African markets”.
He says, “Hollard International has been looking for an East African partner for some time, and APA ticked so many boxes – it has an established track record, an impressive value proposition with strong broker and customer relationships, and it shares our values around community, reliability and customer-centricity. All these elements resonated strongly with us.
“This investment continues Hollard International's African model of finding strong local businesses and management teams with whom to partner in-country, rather than parachuting expatriates into a new market.”
He adds that exploring options in Francophone West Africa is next on Hollard International's to-do list.
Kalpagé has also pledged to bring Hollard International's model of “impact beyond insurance” to the East African market – as demonstrated in Mozambique and Ghana, among other countries.
Hollard Mozambique has developed risk-mitigation insurance products to protect smallholder and subsistence farmers – whose livelihoods are totally reliant on their crops – from extreme weather events through a partnership with local seed providers.
In Ghana, the MeBanbo microinsurance product arose from a partnership between Hollard Life, Vodafone Ghana and Sasai Fintech, a business of Cassava Technologies. It offers accessible, affordable life insurance cover, via an end-to-end digital platform, to the underserved Ghanaian market.
“This focus on being a catalyst for social impact in Africa is in line with Hollard's business purpose, which is to enable more people to create and secure a better future,” concludes Kalpagé.
In South Africa, Hollard is the largest privately owned insurance group, offering both life and non-life product suites. Hollard International extends insurance solutions outside of South Africa through operations in Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia, Lesotho, Botswana and Ghana, with East Africa (Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania) being added to the list through the APA transaction.
APA Insurance is owned by Apollo Investments Limited, which was founded in 1977 with a mission to provide “present and future peace of mind to the East African market and, in turn, enhance the quality of life for both our clients and loved ones”. Built on commitment, integrity and innovation, Apollo has since become one of the leading financial services groups in East Africa, with six companies under its belt.
Issued by Flow Communications on behalf of Hollard.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Hollard.
For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact Khaya Thwala on khayat@flowsa.com or +27 78 349 0668.
About Hollard International:
In South Africa, Hollard is the largest privately owned insurance group, offering both Life and Non-Life product suites. Hollard International extends insurance solutions outside of South Africa through operations in Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia, Lesotho, Botswana and Ghana, with East Africa (Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania) being added to the list through the APA transaction. https://apo-opa.info/3tUpGWD
About APA Insurance:
APA Insurance is part of the Apollo Group, one of the leading insurance groups operating in East Africa, providing a broad array of insurance solutions across Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. APA is one of Kenya's largest non-life insurers and provides access to Motor, Liability, Agriculture, Property and Health insurance as well as a unique range of micro-insurance products. APA Life Assurance is one the fastest growing life insurance companies in Kenya providing Individual Life, Savings, Investments and employee benefits solutions including Group Life, pensions and Annuities. Its other primary insurance business units include APA Life Insurance, APA Insurance in Uganda; an asset management company, Apollo Asset Management; and a property company, Gordon Court. The Apollo Associate in Tanzania is Reliance Insurance Company. https://www.APAInsurance.org/