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The golden era of jazz illuminates Journey to Jazz 2025 with a special look through the lenses of photographers Alf Kumalo, Bob Gosani, Peter Magubane, Ernest Cole, Jurgen Schadeberg and Paul Weinberg in Prince Albert 1 – 4 May As the dawn breaks in Prince Albert, for the start of this year’s Journey to Jazz (J2J), festivalgoers are in for more […]
Cape Ballet Africa Brings a Company of 50 and International Guest Stars to Johannesburg! Ticket sales for the brand-new production of The Nutcracker on stage at Montecasino’s Teatro in December are now on sale at Webtickets.co.za. Cape Ballet Africa and Global Star Events proudly present this magical ballet featuring South Africa’s finest classical dancers joined […]
The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) is reminding talented young South African with a passion for arts and culture wishing to apply for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme (NSP) 2025 that applications close at midnight on Sunday, 30 March. Space is limited and late applications will not be considered. The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme (NSP) […]
Presented by Showtime Management and How Now Brown Cow Productions, the Tony Award-Winning, Best Musical DEAR EVAN HANSEN is now on at Montecasino’s Teatro, Johannesburg for a limited season ending on 6 April. Tickets are on sale at Ticketmaster.co.za This brand-new, reimagined production of Dear Evan Hansen combines talent and innovative technology, with its incredible […]
Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, in partnership with the African First Ladies, announced the winners of Merck Foundation's Song Awards 2023 under two themes - “More Than a Mother” and “Diabetes and Hypertension.”
The awards were announced by Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of Merck Foundation ‘More Than a Mother' campaign, together with African First Ladies, who are also the Ambassadors of Merck Foundation ‘More Than a Mother' campaign.
Senator Dr. Kelej said, “I feel so elated to announce the winners of Merck Foundation's “More Than a Mother” and “Diabetes and Hypertension” Song Awards in partnership with my dear sisters, African First Ladies, who are also the Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”. I congratulate and applaud our 13 talented winners.
Songs are a powerful medium for addressing and influencing social and health issues across Africa. This year's entries were exceptional, with lyrics that effectively conveyed impactful messages, sparking meaningful thought and dialogue within communities.”
The theme of “More Than a Mother” Song Awards was to raise awareness on any of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, Stopping GBV and/or Women Empowerment at all levels and the theme of “Diabetes and Hypertension” Song Awards was to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension in the African countries.
Senator Rasha added, “I have always believed that music and art have the power to evoke emotions, which in turn inspire engagement and action. This belief led us to introduce our Song Awards in 2019. To date, we have celebrated close to 50 winners.
Moreover, we have produced over 30 songs and music videos to address many critical and sensitive issues across Africa.”
Click here to listen to Merck Foundation Songs:
Here is the list of Merck Foundation ‘More Than a Mother' Song Awards 2023 winners:
English Language
Theme: Women Empowerment
Theme: Women Empowerment and GBV
Theme: GBV
French Language
Theme: Child Marriage
Theme: FGM
Theme: FGM
Theme: FGM
Theme: GBV and FGM
Theme: Women Empowerment
Theme: GBV and FGM
Here is the list of winners of Merck Foundation ‘Diabetes & Hypertension' Song Awards 2023:
FIRST POSITION:
Theme: Diabetes & Hypertension (English)
Theme: Diabetes & Hypertension (French)
Theme: Diabetes & Hypertension (English)
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej further added, “I would also like to announce the Call for Applications for the 2025 Edition of the two Merck Foundation Song Awards ‘More Than a Mother' and ‘Diabetes & Hypertension', in partnership with First Ladies of Africa and Asia.
“I invite entries from all Singers, Musicians and young talents, to contribute towards making a difference in society with their inspiring songs with strong and relevant messages about critical and sensitive issues we face in our continent. Be the voice of the voiceless, break the silence and let's all join hands to create a cultural shift”, Senator Kelej added.
Details of Merck Foundation SONG Awards 2025:
1. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2025 “More Than a Mother”
Theme for the awards: Address one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, Stopping GBV and /or Women Empowerment.
Who can apply: All Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a song with the aim to address one or more of the above-mentioned social issues.
Categories: ENGLISH, FRENCH, PORTUGUESE, AND LOCAL LANGUAGE
Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
2. Merck Foundation SONG Awards 2025 “Diabetes & Hypertension”
Theme for the awards: Promote healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.
Who can apply: All Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a song with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.
Categories: ENGLISH, FRENCH, PORTUGUESE, AND LOCAL LANGUAGE
Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.
Contact details:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
+91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com
Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4ckPNYZ
X: https://apo-opa.co/4l4jFwE
Youtube: https://apo-opa.co/4j36IRW
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4iGvG9Q
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4iDYPm3
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4l4eKM8
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4ckPNYZ), X (https://apo-opa.co/4l4jFwE), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4iGvG9Q), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4j36IRW), Threads ( https://apo-opa.co/4iDYPm3) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4l4eKM8).
The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.
SIU investigates unfinished arts centre backed by music legends Caiphus Semenya and Letta Mbulu
A celebration of 30 years of South African democracy through Jazz Basel, Switzerland, 19 March 2025 – In a landmark celebration of South Africa’s 30 years of democracy, South African award-winning drummer and composer Kesivan Naidoo, and his acclaimed ensemble, Kesivan & The Lights, are set to embark on a national tour of the country titled ‘Freedom in Sound’. This […]
Cape Ballet Africa and Global Star Events are proud to present a brand-new production of The Nutcracker in December 2025, bringing this magical ballet to Montecasino’s Teatro in Johannesburg for the festive season. The ballet will see South Africa’s finest classical dancers joined by renowned international guest stars, all collaborating to bring Tchaikovsky’s enchanting score […]
Bringing people together through art, craft and kindness to create connections that matter Prince Albert, 18 March 2025 – The Journey to Jazz (J2J) festival returns to the heart of the Karoo in May, and alongside the stellar musical performances, this year’s Greet & Meet Programme offers festivalgoers a unique and immersive experience of Prince Albert’s rich cultural and natural […]
Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, in partnership with the African First Ladies, announced the winners of Merck Foundation's Song Awards 2023 under two themes - “More Than a Mother” and “Diabetes and Hypertension.”
The awards were announced by Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of Merck Foundation ‘More Than a Mother' campaign, together with African First Ladies, who are also the Ambassadors of Merck Foundation ‘More Than a Mother' campaign.
Senator Dr. Kelej said, “I feel so elated to announce the winners of Merck Foundation's “More Than a Mother” and “Diabetes and Hypertension” Song Awards in partnership with my dear sisters, African First Ladies, who are also the Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”. I congratulate and applaud our 13 talented winners.
Songs are a powerful medium for addressing and influencing social and health issues across Africa. This year's entries were exceptional, with lyrics that effectively conveyed impactful messages, sparking meaningful thought and dialogue within communities.”
The theme of “More Than a Mother” Song Awards was to raise awareness on any of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, Stopping GBV and/or Women Empowerment at all levels and the theme of “Diabetes and Hypertension” Song Awards was to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension in the African countries.
Senator Rasha added, “I have always believed that music and art have the power to evoke emotions, which in turn inspire engagement and action. This belief led us to introduce our Song Awards in 2019. To date, we have celebrated close to 50 winners.
Moreover, we have produced over 30 songs and music videos to address many critical and sensitive issues across Africa.”
Click here to listen to Merck Foundation Songs: https://apo-opa.co/4iKrDsx
Here is the list of Merck Foundation ‘More Than a Mother' Song Awards 2023 winners:
English Language
Theme: Women Empowerment
Theme: Women Empowerment and GBV
Theme: GBV
French Language
Theme: Child Marriage
Theme: FGM
Theme: FGM
Theme: FGM
Theme: GBV and FGM
Theme: Women Empowerment
Theme: GBV and FGM
Here is the list of winners of Merck Foundation ‘Diabetes & Hypertension' Song Awards 2023:
FIRST POSITION:
Theme: Diabetes & Hypertension (English)
Theme: Diabetes & Hypertension (French)
Theme: Diabetes & Hypertension (English)
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej further added, “I would also like to announce the Call for Applications for the 2025 Edition of the two Merck Foundation Song Awards ‘More Than a Mother' and ‘Diabetes & Hypertension', in partnership with First Ladies of Africa and Asia.
“I invite entries from all Singers, Musicians and young talents, to contribute towards making a difference in society with their inspiring songs with strong and relevant messages about critical and sensitive issues we face in our continent. Be the voice of the voiceless, break the silence and let's all join hands to create a cultural shift”, Senator Kelej added.
Details of Merck Foundation SONG Awards 2025:
1. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2025 “More Than a Mother”
Theme for the awards: Address one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, Stopping GBV and /or Women Empowerment.
Who can apply: All Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a song with the aim to address one or more of the above-mentioned social issues.
Categories: ENGLISH, FRENCH, PORTUGUESE, AND LOCAL LANGUAGE
Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
2. Merck Foundation SONG Awards 2025 “Diabetes & Hypertension”
Theme for the awards: Promote healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.
Who can apply: All Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a song with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.
Categories: ENGLISH, FRENCH, PORTUGUESE, AND LOCAL LANGUAGE
Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.
Contact details:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
+91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com
Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
Facebook: apo-opa.co/43QeNES
X: apo-opa.co/43LhE1Y
YouTube: apo-opa.co/43IxXfW
Instagram: apo-opa.co/4iJ4Ope
Threads: apo-opa.co/3FCNOma
Flickr: apo-opa.co/4iNzxkZ
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download the Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4hv7F44
About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (apo-opa.co/43QeNES), X (apo-opa.co/43LhE1Y), Instagram (apo-opa.co/4iJ4Ope), YouTube (apo-opa.co/43IxXfW), Threads (apo-opa.co/3FCNOma) and Flickr (apo-opa.co/4iNzxkZ).
The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.
The future of theatre and digital storytelling is here. The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT), in collaboration with Soda World and the Dumisani Masilela Theatre (DMT), proudly announces the launch of South Africa’s first-ever Smart Theatre. Supported by the City of Ekurhuleni and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, this groundbreaking initiative will be […]
African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies, the premier platform for Africa's energy sector, marks its fifth anniversary in 2025, celebrating a legacy of driving investment, fostering partnerships and advancing the continent's energy future. Since its inception, AEW has established itself as the continent's leading energy event, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, investors and global stakeholders to catalyze development across Africa's oil, gas and renewable sectors.
Over the past five years, AEW has facilitated multi-billion-dollar deals, shaped policy discussions and strengthened regional cooperation. Its inaugural edition in 2021 set a strong foundation, attracting 1,700 delegates, including ministers, global energy executives and financial institutions. The event reinforced Africa's appeal to investors while establishing AEW's strategic goal of eradicating energy poverty by 2030. The event introduced key features such as the African Energy Awards, panel discussions and forums covering the entire energy sector across four venues. Country spotlight sessions provided market insights, while the African Energy Chamber, alongside African energy ministers and a representative from the German government, launched the African Green Energy Dialogue Initiative to accelerate investment in Africa's green energy space.
The 2022 edition of AEW kicked off with opening remarks from esteemed African leaders including the presidents of Uganda and Mozambique, Minister of Hydrocarbons from the Republic of Congo, as well as prominent industry figures from APPO, the European Commission, the International Energy Forum and the private sector. AEW 2022 provided a platform for high-level discussions on investment opportunities, energy policy and strategies for driving Africa's energy transition. In addition to insightful discussions and networking opportunities, AEW 2022 introduced the Just Energy Transition Concert, blending music and culture with energy dialogue to promote investment, development and wider participation across the energy industry.
AEW 2023 saw an unprecedented level of participation, with opening remarks from the presidents of Namibia, Senegal and Uganda, alongside energy ministers from South Africa, South Sudan, Uganda, Equatorial Guinea, the Republic of Congo, Ghana and Mozambique. Representatives from OPEC, APPO, GECF, and key global partners from Russia, the U.S., Europe, and Saudi Arabia further reinforced the event's strategic importance. Afreximbank played a central role, hosting a dedicated deal room and supporting Africa's growing M&A activity. Key agreements signed included Afreximbank's $75 million financing deal with Torxen Energy Resources for Nigeria's PPL 241, a hydrogen exploration agreement between The Gambia and H2 Gambia Limited, and a $60 million term loan for Alphaden Energy & Oilfield Limited to develop a gas facility in Nigeria. Additionally, the African Energy Chamber partnered with the Black Impact Foundation to promote global opportunities for the Black community. The African Farmout Forum connected investors with available blocks, accelerating exploration and partnerships across Africa's oil and gas sector.
In 2024, AEW underscored its role as a catalyst for deal-making and sectoral development. Afreximbank committed over $120 million in financial facilities to support Africa's oil and gas sector, while the Republic of Congo's Société nationale des pétroles du Congo partnered with the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan to modernize the CORAF refinery and the African Farmout Forum returned to highlight available block opportunities for partnership and investment. The event featured a distinguished lineup of speakers and delegations, including energy ministers from South Africa, Namibia, the Republic of Congo, Gabon, Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea and Angola; OPEC and APPO secretary generals; and top executives from Eni, bp, Chevron, TotalEnergies and other leading energy companies.
The fifth edition of AEW promises an even greater focus on investment opportunities and project developments, including 2025/2026 licensing rounds, multi-phase LNG facilities, new refining capacity, drilling and appraisal programs and cross-border pipeline infrastructure. All flagship features will return, including the Big Five Stages of Premium Industry Content, the African Farmout Forum, the Deal Room, the OPEC-Africa Roundtable and more. With capital-intensive projects requiring global financing, AEW 2025 will serve as the premier platform to connect investors with Africa's most promising energy opportunities.
By bringing together key stakeholders, AEW has enhanced Africa's global competitiveness, enabled cross-border partnerships and fostered policy dialogue that advances sustainable energy development. As the conference celebrates five years of impact, its role in shaping the future of Africa's energy sector remains stronger than ever, ensuring that the continent's vast energy resources continue to drive sustainable development and economic transformation.
“The five-year milestone is a testament to AEW's commitment to shaping the future of Africa's energy sector. As the continent continues to navigate the complexities of energy development, AEW remains a vital platform for stakeholders to engage and drive progress across the continent,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, adding “As AEW celebrates five years of impact, its influence on the continent's energy landscape remains unparalleled. The conference has consistently demonstrated its ability to drive sustainable energy development, ensuring that Africa's vast energy resources are harnessed to drive economic transformation and sustainable development.”
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECweek.com for more information about this exciting event.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
Presented by Showtime Management and How Now Brown Cow Productions the Tony Award-Winning, Best Musical DEAR EVAN HANSEN opens at Montecasino’s Teatro, Johannesburg from 15 March for a limited season. Tickets are on sale at Ticketmaster.co.za This brand-new, reimagined production of Dear Evan Hansen combines talent and innovative technology, with its incredible multi-media set design […]
Mogorosi Motshumi is finishing two graphic books
Production debuts at the Lesedi Theatre in Johannesburg this April “Letters of Reflection” by WGRUV Dance company will take to the stage of the Lesedi at Joburg Theatre over five performances from 9-13 April 2025. The performance highlights seven original works created by Holly and Lex Gruver, as well as highlighting a much-loved piece by […]
Killer hit musical CHICAGO returns to razzle dazzle SA again! It would be criminal to miss it! CHICAGO – The Musical returns! Owing to popular demand, Showtime Management is pleased to announce that CHICAGO is back in 2025 and sexier than ever before! The award-winning Broadway and West End musical will be on stage at […]
Cultural Creators from three of South Africa's neighbouring countries feature in KFC Streetwise's (https://Global.KFC.com/) new Original Feeds Original campaign, which celebrates the inspiration that feeds creativity.
Windhoek fashion designer Ruberto Scholtz, Harare visual director Rowan Sakarombe and the Botswana Metalheads feature in the campaign's epic TV commercial (https://apo-opa.co/43najWe), which stars Khuli Chana, Blxckie and 25K. The commercial's soundtrack (https://apo-opa.co/4irtnad) is a new song, the Originals Anthem, written and recorded by the rappers.
“Just as KFC's Streetwise brand takes its inspiration from the iconic taste of KFC's Original Recipe – while adding bucketloads of value for a new generation – the film depicts Khuli, Blxckie and 25K inspiring each other and those who will follow them,” says KFC Africa Chief Marketing Officer Grant Macpherson. “The Cultural Creators are part of the same powerful narrative.”
Scholtz, who made the suits Blxckie and 25K wear in the photoshoot scene in the TV commercial, is inspired by collaborations. “If you see someone who can do something well, why not work with them?” he says.
Sakarombe appears in the film shooting the Originals Anthem music video in the street with Khuli Chana, Blxckie and 25K. He says he's inspired by the “raw experiences of life around me” and the vibrant energy, constant motion and diverse cultures of cities.
The Originals Anthem inspires the Botswana Metalheads – whose music often contains local influences and whose style reflects cowboy culture - to infuse their originality and give it a heavy metal angle.
The campaign, which launches on 04 March 2025 across SADC regions, also features a packaging collaboration between KFC Streetwise and Cultural Creator Sindiso Nyoni, a Bulawayo-born illustrator who has built a stellar career after being inspired by an “original” – his high school art teacher, a retired graphic designer.
Making a mark
Macpherson says it's a time when young people are hungry to share their unique signature with the world. “Who better to feed their hunger than the originals who came before them?” he says.
“We want the Originals Anthem and all the activity around it to inspire all the young Africans trying to make their mark through their creativity and individuality.”
Khuli Chana says that as one of the legends of South African hip-hop, he's passionate about inspiring new artists. “The reason I started Maftown Heights in 2009 was to help rappers from Mahikeng find their footing in Joburg with a sound and language that wasn't mainstream at the time,” he says. “It led to great things and it's still giving new artists a platform. I love inspiring musicians to find their original sound.”
Blxckie says his career and development has been built on collaborations, and every one of them keeps him original. “Musicians lift each other up,” he says. “They support each other and make each other better at what they do.”
25K was introduced to rap by artists such as DJ Mojava, Ghetto Squad, and old school hip-hop groups Dead Prez and Outcast, and became an original by rapping in S'Pitori, a mixed language spoken in Pretoria.
“I want to be remembered for that and I want to inspire kids,” he says. “When I'm no longer here, I want to feel like I left something that will make it easier for another kid to come out of Pretoria.”
Other Cultural Creators who appear in the Original Feeds Original TV commercial include Kind Kid toymaker Sanele Qwabe, “Nail Pimp” Nailed Ntswembu, the Island Gals skateboarders and custom car pimper Ofentse Mphatsoe.
Passing the torch
The commercial begins with Khuli starting to write the Originals Anthem and ends with him as the OG, welcoming Blxckie and 25K on stage and handing the mic to them.
“It's the story of my life and it's the story of KFC Streetwise,” says Khuli. “Passing the mic is like passing the torch, and that's how Original Feeds Original.”
Director Sam Coleman says the 90-second video portrays the endless cycle of inspiration, in which each creator is galvanised by the ones before and motivates those who follow. “It's an explosive mix of visual eye candy, entertainment, musical reward, style, and unique brand integration that instantly hijacks your attention and eyeballs,” he says. “Everything about it is engaging, surprising and fresh.”
And there's an extra twist to the campaign, says Macpherson. “Every time someone streams the Originals Anthem, the money it earns will go to KFC Add Hope. It will be used to feed malnourished children throughout South Africa.
“Among the kids who benefit from Add Hope are the next generation of Khulis, Blxckies and 25Ks and the Cultural Creators of the future. So, anyone who listens to the anthem will be helping them on their way.”
The Originals Anthem is available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify (https://apo-opa.co/4irtnad), YouTube Music (https://apo-opa.co/4if2LsS) and Apple Music (https://apo-opa.co/43srwgO).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KFC Africa.
30” TVC available here (https://apo-opa.co/4h9AfYu)
90” TVC available here (https://apo-opa.co/43najWe)
KFC socials:
KFC Eswatini
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4ilOwlT
Instagram: @ kfc_eswatini - https://apo-opa.co/43mH322
About KFC Africa:
KFC has been in South Africa for over 53 years and has more than 1,300 stores across the country. The first KFC restaurant in South Africa opened in 1971 in Orange Grove, Johannesburg. KFC is the leading quick-service restaurant brand in South Africa with just under a third of market share, according to Brand Image Tracker. KFC serves more than 20 million customers a month and we work hard to ensure that no matter which of our restaurants they walk into, they will get that distinctive KFC flavour and have a great experience. KFC's Original Recipe® Chicken was first made by Colonel Harland Sanders in 1940 when he perfected his secret recipe of 11 herbs and spices at his restaurant in Kentucky. Today, KFC is the world's most popular chicken restaurant, still preparing our chicken with the Colonel's secret recipe to his exact standards. Every KFC restaurant follows the same global processes and procedures to ensure that our customers get great-tasting food, every time. KFC Streetwise is a registered trademark.
SA joins the world in marking Hearing Day
All South Africans have been called to join the global community in commemorating World Hearing Day on Monday.
World Hearing Day, which is celebrated annually on 3 March, aims to raise awareness about deafness and hearing and to promote access to ear and hearing care.
The day highlights a specific theme on which the World Health Organisation and its partners carry out activities based on the theme.
This year’s World Hearing Day theme, “Changing mindsets: Empower yourself”, builds on the 2024 focus on changing mindsets towards ear and hearing care.
Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities spokesperson, Cassius Selala, said that hearing was fundamental to communication, education, employment, and overall well-being.
“If it is left unaddressed, hearing loss can hinder speech development, academic progress, and economic opportunities. It can also lead to social isolation, stigma, and reduced quality of life.
“Hearing impairment (HI) is a silent planetary health crisis that requires attention worldwide. The prevalence of HI in South Africa is estimated at 5.5 in 100 live births, which is about five times higher than the prevalence in high-income countries,” Selala said.
According to the World Report on Hearing 2022, approximately four million people with a hearing disability live in South Africa. However, less than 600 000 South Africans use South African Sign Language, which accounts for just 0.02% of the country’s population, according to Census 2022.
Urgent interventions needed
Selala warned that without urgent interventions, hearing loss, particularly among vulnerable and disadvantaged populations, will continue to rise, exacerbating existing inequalities in healthcare access across the continent.
“It is estimated that by 2030, over 500 million people are expected to have disabling hearing loss, which will also require rehabilitation. Over the years, one billion young people will also face the risk of permanent hearing loss due to prolonged exposure to loud sounds during recreational pastimes, such as listening to music and video game play,” Selala said.
Addressing hearing impairment
To address the growing challenge of hearing impairment, the department is advocating for several key actions, and these include:
• Improve access to ear and hearing care, especially in underserved communities.
• Combat stigma and misperceptions about hearing loss through education and awareness campaigns.
• Strengthen national policies to integrate hearing care into primary healthcare
systems.
• Expand training programmes to increase the number of skilled hearing care
professionals.
• Invest in infrastructure and assistive devices, ensuring that hearing aids, cochlear implants and other technologies are available and affordable for those who need them.
Selala urged individuals of all ages to empower themselves, to ensure healthy ears and hearing for themselves and others. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 09:56
329 views
Kesivan Naidoo and the Lights will premiere their new work celebrating 30 years of democracy for the first time in South Africa and Tribe reunite for the first time in 25 years! Prince Albert, Karoo, 27 February 2025 – The wait is over. Journey to Jazz 2025 (J2J) today revealed the world-class artists who complete the […]
Cape Town, South Africa – FAME Week Africa 2025 is set to return to the Host City of Cape Town at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) from 1-6 September 2025. Offering a hub of opportunities, networking and news for creatives across the continent, FAME Week converges around the diverse sectors of film, television, […]
All eyes will be on the Tuks cricket fields in Pretoria as the inaugural Schools SA20 National Champions are crowned...
Hit the high note and the high life and head to the Baxter Concert Hall, Thursday, 25 February 2025! Cape Town, 18 February 2025 – Opera UCT announces the launch concert for its third season as a production house, which promises to be an unforgettable evening of music. Happening at the Baxter Concert Hall on Thursday, […]
Two exclusive performances: Johannesburg & Cape Town – March 2025 Johannesburg, South Africa, 13 February 2025 – By popular demand, critically acclaimed alternative soul artist Bongi Mvuyana is taking her powerful new album, Power, on tour with two intimate and highly anticipated performances – at Artistry, Johannesburg on 15 March 2025 and at Youngblood, Cape […]
A game changing collaboration, a global house music icon, and an unforgettable festival experience on 22 February 2025. LIGHTHOUSE Festival and The Cape Town Electronic Music Festival (CTEMF) come together for the first time to deliver a next level day-to-night event at the DHL Stadium concourse in Green Point, Cape Town. LIGHTHOUSE Festival: The team […]