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Can tracking mouse footprints give clues to climate change? Yves Vanderhaeghen speaks to the founders of WildTrack, which is pioneering technology in South Africa to track small mammals so they can tell us about disruptions to ecosystems. Is it a mouse? A shrew? A rat? We can read a lot into the pawprints of small …
Department of Health, trade union welcome Dr Aaron Motsoaledi as new Minister
The Department of Health has welcomed Dr Aaron Motsoaledi as their new Minister and his Deputy, Dr Joe Phaahla, as part of the newly established seventh democratic administration to move South Africa forward.
On Sunday, President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed Motsoaledi as the Minister of Health when he was announcing the Government of National Unity (GNU) Cabinet.
Motsoaledi replaces Phaahla, who has served in the portfolio since August 2021.
However, Motsoaledi is no stranger to the department, having previously served as the Minister from 2009 to 2019.
“The department believes the return of both political principals will ensure continuity and stability in the implementation of key health priorities, which include increasing life expectancy, strengthening health system effectiveness and the National Health Insurance (NHI) to enable the country to attain universal health coverage,” the department said.
The department took the time to also thank the outgoing Deputy Minister, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, for his “sterling” work, which accelerated access to sexual and reproductive health services.
Dhlomo has been praised for establishing youth-friendly zones in primary health facilities to create a conducive environment to access essential health services without standing in queue with the general customers.
“He also championed the healthy lifestyle programme to reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and so on," the department said.
It said it was looking forward to the leadership of both Motsoaledi and Phaahla to lead the health sector, guided by policies and legislations to ensure equal access to quality and affordable healthcare services for all South Africans to achieve universal health coverage.
Meanwhile, the South African Medical Association Trade Union (Samatu) has also welcomed Motsoaledi following his appointment.
The union has described the Minister as someone with proven dedication and extensive experience in the healthcare sector.
“Minister Motsoaledi has a commendable track record of addressing critical health challenges and implementing significant reforms to improve the health of all South Africans.
“Samatu is confident that Minister Motsoaledi's deep understanding of the South African healthcare landscape will prove invaluable as we embark on the rollout of the NHI, which aims to provide universal health coverage and ensure that all South Africans, regardless of their socio-economic status, have access to quality health services,” the statement read.
READ | President Ramaphosa signs NHI Bill into law
The trade union believes that Motsoaledi possesses the vision, commitment, and expertise needed to implement the NHI successfully.
“His reappointment comes at a crucial time when the NHI’s foundational structures are being established, and his leadership will be instrumental in ascertaining that this transformative healthcare reform is realised seamlessly and effectively.”
The union has since pledged its full support to Motsoaledi and said it was looking forward to working collaboratively with his office.
“We are committed to advancing the health and well-being of all South Africans, addressing the inequalities in healthcare access, and building a robust healthcare system that serves everyone proficiently.
“We call upon all stakeholders in the healthcare sector to unite behind Minister Motsoaledi’s leadership and contribute positively towards improving healthcare services in our country. This collective effort will be pivotal in enhancing our nation's public health and achieving the vision of a healthier South Africa.”
Samatu is a voluntary, independent, and non-discriminatory trade union for medical doctors and offers labour relations and bargaining services. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 07/01/2024 - 12:44
The Proteas are ready to fight for the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup, having narrowly missed out on their 3rd win to Australia in 2019. With KwaZulu-Natal’s Durban Shongweni Club hosting the competition from 17 to 28 July 2024, the South African polocrosse team will enjoy a home-side advantage as they take on the …
KZN Premier recommits to collaborative and effective governance approach
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has reiterated his commitment to a team-oriented approach to governance, and to collaborate with everyone willing to work alongside him.
Ntuli made the commitment during his meeting with the officials in the Office of the Premier in Pietermaritzburg on Friday.
The meeting, which saw a large turnout from staff eager to engage with the new Premier and hear his vision for the future, set a positive and constructive tone for Ntuli's administration, laying the groundwork for a collaborative and effective governance approach in KwaZulu-Natal.
Ntuli extended a warm welcome to all the staff and acknowledged their dedication and hard work.
The Premier also addressed staff concerns and sought to ease any uncertainties regarding the transition in leadership, emphasising the importance of inclusivity and unity.
"While working at King Cetshwayo District Municipality, I worked with everyone, irrespective of political affiliation. When you have a new leader, people expect new things, meaning that we must improve on what has been there.
“We need to work with speed to serve the people of KwaZulu-Natal. My leadership style would be collaborative and focused on building on the existing foundations to achieve greater efficiency and service delivery,” Ntuli said.
The Premier also outlined several strategic priorities for his administration and stressed the need for rapid improvements in service delivery, particularly in areas that directly impact the lives of the people of KwaZulu-Natal.
He underscored the importance of innovation and modernisation in government operations to ensure that the province keeps pace with the evolving needs of its citizens.
The Premier further encouraged open communication and sharing of ideas, noting that “diverse perspectives are crucial for effective governance".
Ntuli assured the staff that their contributions are valued and that their professional development will be supported.
The inaugural meeting marked the beginning of Premier Ntuli's tenure, signalling a period of unity and focused progress aimed at enhancing the province's governance and service delivery. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 07/01/2024 - 12:48
Reaching any midpoint, whether it's to catch one's breath on a ultra-marathon to gear up for the next stretch, or a project team reflecting on their progress and making necessary modifications – it's all about positioning for success. So too a mid-year retail check-in offers valuable insights into some of the latest developments shaping how retailers connect with consumers and drive innovation in the second half of this year.
Overview | Global & Local
The rise and rise of ecommerce, the integration of online and offline, platforming sustainability, contactless and convenient quick and easy payment options, price-sensitive pricing strategies and building customer loyalty – dominated the past six months.
So too, and no surprises here, but the broader classification of the consumer is changing yet again. If 2023 was the year of the resilient consumer, it seems that 2024 is seeing the year of the empowered consumer. Mastercard Data & Services [May 2024] reported that despite rising interest rates, inflation and the threat of a recession, consumers still confidently spent in 2023. This year however, consumers are carefully prioritising resources – with many people worldwide now looking for more deals and discounts to carefully balance their household budgets. Technology is also playing a bigger role in bringing innovation and efficiency to retailers and consumers, reflecting a more concerted shift towards a customer-centric and digitally driven retail landscape.
“Don't blink was my pennies worth at our trends check in November 2023,” said Mike Smollan, Chief Growth Officer, Smollan. “We've seen the rapid changes this year, from powerful tactical retail that has global brands amping up the flavour and integration experience for consumers. To local shifts in South Africa for example, with 61% of Gen Zs finding their feet and telling us via a recent Trade Intelligence report, that social media influencers are their best source of information when it comes to shopping. It's about meeting consumers wherever, whenever, and however they prefer to shop, and being cognisant of and embracing the shift to empowered consumerism.”
Global retail examples always provide a relevant yardstick to illustrate these shifting dynamics on a larger scale. Take Walmart for example who despite relatively little store growth, has maintained its number one ranking with a robust online marketplace and a range of new financial resources for shoppers. Costco expanded its warehouse format this year to a range of countries while Ikea is reinventing, by opening smaller-format stores around the world.
So too, the ecommerce world continues to baffle the brain – with relative newbie Temu topping US$5 billion in sales in 2023, just one year after they launched. With Statista reporting that their app has been downloaded over 52 million times as of May this year.
A wild ride and evolving storyline as we watch the disruption of this sector.
Closer to home, Shoprite South Africa (SA) have adapted in 2024 to serve customers who want more promotions, combo deals and collective buying. They also noted that their customers are switching to private labels. Furthermore, they have expanded their premium stores and on-demand delivery services, as well as venturing into mobile services and financial offerings. On the ecommerce front Tech Safari, reporting on Amazon's entry into SA in May this year, have suggested a possible pricing war benefitting consumers with faster deliveries, more products and better support. This space in the spotlight from now until year end and beyond, with competition on the up as Takealot, in response to Amazon's entry, launched a free delivery service with a monthly subscription.
At A Glance | Four Trends
Accelerated ways to enable retailers to anticipate, experiment, adapt and satisfy consumers, even before they are aware of them, will be the golden thread. With Forbes identifying four evolving trends for the second half of the year:
Sustainability
Customers want organisations to step up and show proof of their eco stance however they have “green fatigue” and are quickly on the scent of businesses that are simply ‘greenwashing'.
AI
This is constantly evolving and retailers need to use AI to improve efficiencies and processes, and balance this with a human touch.
Personalised Communication
Consumers want messages tailored to them and their purchasing behaviour and not to be bombarded with general marketing messages. Shifting tactics from purely transactional to empathetic.
Social Commerce
CRM Essentials showed that 37% of consumers trust influencers more than brands. This year social commerce and creator economies present a perfect symbiotic relationship as brands are now more focused on telling stories on social platforms that conclude with a commerce moment.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Smollan.
Kusile Power Station’s Unit 5 reaches commercial operation
Eskom’s Kusile Unit 5 has achieved commercial operation, adding some 800MW to the grid.
This comes as the power utility has maintained at least 90 days of uninterrupted electricity supply.
Eskom Group Chief Executive Dan Marokane said the move is part of the power utility’s focus on its recovery plan.
“We stated in our winter outlook…that we would add new generation capacity to the grid with Kusile Power Station Unit 5, as part of our intense focus on delivering the Generation Operational Recovery Plan. This addition is part of a total of 2500MW that will be added before the end of this calendar year.
“Eskom will continue to focus on implementing operational recovery, strengthening governance and future proofing the organisation to enable energy security, growth and long-term sustainability to the benefit of South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa,” Marokane said.
Kusile Power Station is located in Mpumalanga.
The power utility’s Group Executive for Generation Bheki Nxumalo added that the addition of the much-needed megawatts is a result of the collective efforts of all Eskom employees.
“The delivery of the unit, as part of our Generation Operational Recovery Plan, showcases the remarkable achievements possible when our 40 000 employees work together as a collective.
“I extend my gratitude to all Eskom employees and contractors for their diligent work in bringing this unit to commercial operation. This achievement aligns with our commitment to maximising grid capacity,” Nxumalo said.
According to Eskom, the unit was first synchronised to the grid in December 2023 but will now “begin contributing power, increasing Kusile Power Station’s total output to 4000MW”.
“Since its synchronisation…the unit has met performance expectations, supported the grid and helped to reduce load shedding. Upon completion, Kusile Power Station will consist of six units, producing a maximum of 4800MW.
“Additionally, Kusile is equipped with wet flue gas desulphurisation (WFGD) technology, making it the first power station in South Africa and Africa to use this emissions abatement technology. WFGD removes sulphur dioxide from flue gas before it is released into the atmosphere, ensuring compliance with international air quality standards.
“Construction of the remaining Kusile Unit 6 is progressing as planned, with it expected to be synchronised to the grid in November 2024,” the power utility said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 07/01/2024 - 10:43
Dalberg (www.Dalberg.com) is a strategic advisory firm that combines the best of private sector strategy skills and rigorous analytical capabilities with deep knowledge and networks across emerging and frontier markets. All projects include an option to integrate strategy design with implementation. With staff on the ground in more than 50 countries, speaking over 90 languages, and understanding diverse sectoral priorities and nuances, Dalberg is able to bring a local team to execute solutions tailored for the local market—while simultaneously drawing on global topical expertise and insight. Dalberg also offers the advantage of continuity. “The trusting relationships we build during the strategy phase carry through the inevitable pitfalls of execution,” points out Shruti Goyal, an Associate Partner with Dalberg. “We maintain senior project leadership from strategy through to execution and learning. This provides smooth transitions between phases of the project. Our ability to support clients in shaping their strategy is enhanced by bringing in the learning from implementation, particularly in addressing shifting client priorities, external disruptions, and opportunities.”
Since 2020, Dalberg has collaborated with governments, philanthropies, multilaterals, NGOs, and corporates to seamlessly integrate strategy and execution support for over 55 projects—including, recently:
Dalberg's local presence also allows it to partner with grassroots organizations to drive implementation at the community level. “Our goal is systemic change,” says Goyal. “We hope to continue our deep partnerships from the start of the strategy journey through to execution to maximize the impact from our work.”
Below are two examples of how we have helped deliver complex assignments across multiple topics and geographies in Africa.
The Malaria Vaccine Technical Assistance Program – Lillian Kidane
Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for over 90% of malaria cases and related deaths globally and faces a host of challenges in vaccine deployment—from accessibility to integration with existing health systems. Earlier this year, Dalberg established the Malaria Vaccine Technical Assistance Program in collaboration with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. The initiative constitutes a comprehensive strategy to integrate the vaccine into national health systems, ensuring that the vaccine reaches the most vulnerable populations. Dalberg is working with multiple countries over the next three years to create tailored approaches to rolling out the new malaria vaccine. “We're already seeing results,” says Lillian Kidane, Partner and Dalberg's Regional Director for Africa. In Cameroon, for example, the successful launch of the malaria vaccine in 42 health districts has laid the groundwork for scaling up to the remaining 74 health districts. “The work also strengthens the case for promoting comprehensive healthcare delivery at the community level,” Kidane adds. Valuable insights from the program will facilitate the introduction of future vaccines, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
Rural Women's Agricultural Aspirations – Naoko Koyama
Dalberg is working with the World Bank, Amtech, and CGAP to design, test, and scale financial and non-financial solutions to meet the unique needs and aspirations of rural women in Kenya. Through the program, Dalberg aims to increase rural women's use of financial and non-financial services, taking advantage of the national network of digitized and sustainable savings and credit cooperative organizations (SACCOs) as trusted community financial institutions, and strengthening access to markets through digitized farmer producer organizations (FPOs) and climate-smart agtechs and agribusinesses. The aim is to integrate services that include access to inputs, information, extension and capacity strengthening, and digital technology to enhance agricultural production. “Ultimately, we want to build more resilient agricultural livelihoods with increased access to financial services and markets, particularly for women,” says Naoko Koyama, a Dalberg Partner based in South Africa.
Looking forward
Dalberg sees a range of ways in which governments, philanthropies, multilaterals, NGOs, and private sector companies can accelerate their impact with implementation support, especially when they are taking on complex issues at the systems level. To learn more about our implementation work, please contact Shruti Goyal.
Contact: shruti.goyal@dalberg.com
ROUND 1
Great strategies are only the first step. Turning them into real-world change requires specialized skills and resources.
This strategy-to-action gap is where we come in. Dalberg combines global best practices with deep local understanding, thanks to our team in over 50 countries. This allows us to tailor solutions that consider sectoral priorities and nuances.
[Link]
Learn more by contacting Shruti Goyal at shruti.goyal@dalberg.com.
#StrategyExecution #ImpactAtScale #LocalSolutions #SystemicChange #EmergingMarkets #GlobalExpertise #DevelopmentConsulting #DalbergImplement #SustainableDevelopment
Tweet
Turning strategies into real-world change requires specialized skills and resources. Dalberg bridges this gap with global best practices and deep local understanding. Boost your impact now: [Link] #StrategyExecution #ImpactAtScale #SystemicChange #DalbergImplement
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ROUND 2
Great ideas are the fuel for progress. With Dalberg's implementation support, they can translate to great impact.
[Link]
Contact Shruti Goyal (shruti.goyal@dalberg.com) to learn more.
#StrategyExecution #ImpactAtScale #LocalSolutions #SystemicChange #EmergingMarkets #GlobalExpertise #DevelopmentConsulting #DalbergImplement #SustainableDevelopment
Visual (infographic: https://apo-opa.co/45NduFS)
Why Dalberg Implement?
Continuity: From strategy to execution to learning, led by the same leadership
Adaptability: To shifting priorities, external disruptions, and new opportunities
Credibility: Over 55 projects since 2020, across diverse sectors and geographies
Capacity: Teams in more than 50 countries, speaking over 90 languages
Tweet
Great ideas can translate to great impact with Dalberg's implementation support. Bring strategy to life with seamless execution: [Link] #LocalSolutions #SystemicChange #GlobalExpertise #DevelopmentConsulting #DalbergImplement
ROUND 3
We believe our implementation support can significantly boost your impact on complex, systems-level issues.
Turn your ideas into lasting impact now: [Link]
#StrategyExecution #ImpactAtScale #LocalSolutions #SystemicChange #EmergingMarkets #GlobalExpertise #DevelopmentConsulting #DalbergImplement #SustainableDevelopment
Quote card (https://apo-opa.co/3zpQH70)
“We maintain senior project leadership from strategy through to execution and learning. This provides smooth transitions between phases of the project. Our ability to support clients in shaping their strategy is enhanced by bringing in the learning from implementation, particularly in addressing shifting client priorities, external disruptions, and opportunities.”
Shruti Goyal, Associate Partner at Dalberg
Tweet
Dalberg's implementation support can significantly boost your impact on complex, systems-level issues. Turn your ideas into lasting impact now: [Link] #LocalSolutions #SystemicChange #GlobalExpertise #DevelopmentConsulting #DalbergImplement
[SG1]Can we say ensure long term career outcomes for young women
[VK2]Done.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Dalberg Advisors.
CHENNAI: On Day 3 of the one-off Test between the Proteas Women and India, a maiden century from Suné Luus and...
Meet SA's new cabinet
President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Sunday 30 June 2024, announced the new members of the National Executive for the seventh administration, which is inclusive of all the parties to the Government of National Unity.
The highly anticipated announcement took place after Ramaphosa was elected as the President by the National Assembly on Friday, 14 June 2024, after which he was inaugurated on Wednesday, 19 June 2024.
The eleven parties to the GNU include the African National Congress, Democratic Alliance, Patriotic Alliance, Inkatha Freedom Party, Good Party, Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, Freedom Front Plus, United Democratic Movement, Al Jama-ah, Rise Mzansi and the United Africans Transformation.
Addressing the nation on Sunday evening, the President said given the challenges that the country faces and considering the electoral mandate this government must implement, he has decided to make certain changes to the national government portfolios.
“In the course of the sixth democratic administration, we indicated our intention to reduce the number of portfolios in the National Executive. However, due to the need to ensure that the National Executive is inclusive of all the parties to the Government of National Unity, this has not been possible.
“In some instances, we have considered it necessary to separate certain portfolios to ensure that there is sufficient focus on key issues,” Ramaphosa said at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
WATCH |
Changes to portfolios
He said the Ministries of Electricity and Energy will be merged.
“There will be a separate Ministry of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. The Ministry of Agriculture will be separated from the Ministry of Land Reform and Rural Development.
“The Ministry of Higher Education will be separated from the ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation. The ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development will be separated from the ministry of Correctional Services.
“There will no longer be a Ministry of Public Enterprises. The coordination of the relevant public enterprises will be located in the Presidency during the process of implementing a new shareholder model,” the President said.
The new National Executive
Ramaphosa has decided to make the following appointments to the National Executive:
Click here for the Summary of the new National Executive |
- SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 06/30/2024 - 22:41
'Unprecedented' Government of National Unity to roll up its sleeves
President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially announced his new cabinet and South Africa is now firmly into the seventh administration - led by what the President has termed an “unprecedented” Government of National Unity (GNU).
The President announced the members of cabinet on Sunday evening, about a month after the National and Provincial Elections were held on 29 May 2024.
“The incoming government will prioritise rapid, inclusive and sustainable economic growth and the creation of a more just society by tackling poverty and inequality,” President Ramaphosa assured the country, as he addressed the nation from the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
This year’s General Election results produced no outright majority winner – tasking various political leaders to work together to form a government, much like what was required at the dawn of democracy in 1994.
Some 11 political formations have come together and signed a Statement of Intent to work together to form a GNU, reflective of the representatives from those parties.
“The establishment of the Government of National Unity in its current form is unprecedented in the history of our democracy. We have had to consider how to form the new government in a manner that advances the national interest, that gives due consideration to the outcome of the election and that makes use of the respective capabilities within each of the parties.
“We have had to consider not only the immediate needs of the country. We have also had to consider the stability, effectiveness and durability of the government we are establishing,” he said.
WATCH | Cabinet announcement
READ| Meet SA's new cabinet
Serving all South Africans
With Ministers and Deputy Ministers now coming from a plethora of parties, President Ramaphosa told the nation that those appointed to those positions will work to serve all South Africans and not just those who voted for them.
“These men and women we have appointed to the executive are drawn from all corners of our country. They reflect the diversity of our nation. They have a responsibility to work together to serve the people as a whole.
“None of the members of the National Executive has been appointed to serve the interests of a particular constituency, a particular party or a particular section of society,” he said.
Strengthening democracy
Turning to the length of time it has taken to form a cabinet, President Ramaphosa soothed concerned South Africans – pointing out that other countries have taken longer to walk the same path.
“[Many] people have pointed to the experiences of other countries that have a far longer history of democracy, where the formation of multi-party governments have sometimes taken several months.
“As a relatively young democracy, we should be proud that we have moved to establish a government comprised of eleven parties within such a short space of time.
“Through our discussions we have been able to build consensus on the tasks of government. We have shown that there are no problems that are too difficult or too intractable that they cannot be solved through dialogue,” he emphasised.
National Dialogue
With the cabinet announced, a National Dialogue is expected to be convened by the incoming GNU and other formations in the “spirit of partnership and collaboration”.
“Through this National Dialogue, all parties, civil society groups, labour, business and other stakeholders will be invited to work together to address the critical challenges facing the nation.
“We call on all South Africans to participate in the National Dialogue and to give their support to this Government of National Unity as it begins its work.
“As the leaders of political parties, as Ministers and Deputy Ministers, as public representatives, we understand and accept the responsibility that we bear. We have all been called upon to serve the people of this country, and we will do so to the utmost of our ability,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 06/30/2024 - 23:22
Paul Mashatile appointed as Deputy President
President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Paul Mashatile as Deputy President of South Africa in the seventh administration.
Mashatile is reprising his role from the sixth administration.
This was announced by President Ramaphosa in an address to the nation on Sunday night, announcing the country's new cabinet.
Mashatile served as Deputy President from March 2023 following the resignation of former Deputy President David Mabuza.
In the sixth administration, Deputy President Mashatile was tasked with discharging the following duties:
In the term of the sixth administration Deputy President Mashatile also chaired the Governance, State Capacity and Institutional Development and the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cabinet Committees.
Mashatile hails from Gauteng and was the Minister of Arts and Culture between 2010 and 2014.
He has also served in various positions in the Gauteng Provincial Government, including as Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Finance and Economic Affairs, MEC for Housing and MEC Transport, Roads and Public Works.
He was an anti-apartheid activist prior to the dawn of South Africa’s democracy in 1994 and was arrested and detained for some four years by the brutal Apartheid government. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 06/30/2024 - 22:30
The road to the Opening of Parliament Address
The peaceful transfer of power from one administration to the next has defined our democracy since 1994. This moment is a culmination of a number of things but is symbolised most notably by the Presidential Inauguration. By affirming the oath of office, the incoming President begins a new term of government and swears to work for our country and her people.
On 19 June 2024, against the backdrop of the historic Union Buildings and with the eyes of the nation, the continent and the world upon him, President Cyril Ramaphosa took the oath of office with the words: I, Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, swear that I will be faithful to the Republic of South Africa and will obey, observe, uphold and maintain the Constitution and all other law of the Republic.
These words signalled the start of his second term as President, and the beginning of the seventh administration of a democratic South Africa. The symbolism of the inauguration is important as it represents the beginning of a new chapter and signals to the world that our democracy remains strong.
This inauguration was also the first since 1994 where the President addressed the nation with no one party having a clear majority. “The voters of South Africa did not give any single party the full mandate to govern our country alone. They have directed us to work together to address their plight and realise their aspirations,” he said.
These words by President Cyril Ramaphosa are a potent reminder that our nation has always been at its strongest when we are united in a common purpose. Time after time during the past 30 Years of Freedom, we have shown that our unity remains our greatest strength.
As we look towards the seventh administration, we will as always be guided by our Constitution and democratic principles. The road to the establishment of the seventh democratic parliament begins with the Opening of Parliament Address, which will take place at the first joint sitting of the National Assembly and National Council of Provinces. The address is delivered by the President of the Republic and occurs once every five years after an election.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will address the Opening of Parliament on 18 July 2024 and will use this occasion to outline the priorities of the 7th Administration. Fittingly, the Opening of Parliament Address will coincide with the United Nations-declared Nelson Mandela International Day, which is celebrated annually to mark the birthday of the founding President of a democratic South Africa.
The Opening of Parliament Address is more than a ceremonial occasion; it is a platform where the President will detail government’s vision and priorities to the nation. Importantly, it sets the tone for the legislative and administrative actions to follow as we begin the hard work to further advance our nation. It also symbolises the functioning of the new parliament, reflecting the continuity and stability of governance.
Continuity and stability has been the hallmark of our democracy since 1994, with each successive administration building on the work of the one before. The incoming administration will be guided by existing plans such as the National Development Plan, as well as agreed upon Government of National Unity (GNU) priorities anchored by respect for the Constitution, the Bill of Rights in its entirety, a united South Africa and the rule of law.
The seventh administration, like the ones before it will continue to work to ensure a better tomorrow for all, however we cannot do it alone. We call on all South Africans to join us as we chart a new path. Let us work together and continue to build a society that is truly reflective of the will of the people.
*Nomonde Mnukwa is Acting Director-General of the GCIS
Neo
Sun, 06/30/2024 - 14:50
President Ramaphosa to announce new National Executive
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to announce a new National Executive this evening, 30 June 2024, at 9pm.
The announcement, which will be in the form of a televised address to the nation, follows the inauguration of President Ramaphosa on Wednesday, 19 June 2024, which in turn followed the President’s election by the National Assembly on Friday, 14 June.
The new National Executive will constitute the seventh Democratic Administration as a Government of National Unity, comprising a diversity of political parties as an outcome of the National and Provincial Elections held on Wednesday, 29 May 2024.
The SABC will provide a content feed to all media and PresidencyZA will also live stream the proceedings. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Sun, 06/30/2024 - 16:49
Durban singer Philasande Musawenkosi Ntombela, best known as Jaey Price that his upcoming album ‘No Other Optionz’ is almost done. Jaey Price recently released a new EP album #noproblemz in April via Equity Distribution. The young artist has been buzzing and has been making a name for himself. Jaey Price (born September 9, 1997) is …
Free State Premier charts a new path for seventh administration
Newly inaugurated Free State Premier, MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae, has emphasised the urgent need for a dedicated public service, spearheaded by selfless and noble public servants, as government begins the work of the seventh administration.
Letsoha-Mathae said this when she met with the officials in the Office of the Premier at the Bram Fischer Building in Bloemfontein on Thursday.
Addressing the officials, the Premier stressed the importance of creativity, hard work and collective effort to combat the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
"As we embark on this new journey, I implore you to remember that we are not just public servants, but patriotic citizens tasked with building a united, democratic, non-sexist, non-racial, and prosperous South Africa.
“Let us work together to deliver quality services to our people and make the Free State a beacon of hope and excellence," Letshoha-Mathae said.
The Premier emphasised participatory democracy, urging public servants to take an active role in addressing societal issues.
She reiterated her administration's commitment to providing prudent oversight, overseeing, and coordinating the delivery of quality services, leveraging on the District Development Model (DDM) for integrated development.
Letshoha-Mathae stressed the importance of empowering the previously disadvantaged women and the youth in building a capable developmental state that prioritises the needs of the people.
The Premier said there would be a zero-tolerance approach towards maladministration, unethical practices and laziness of officials.
"The preoccupation of government, moving forward, should be that of ensuring public servants are held accountable and that the state is responsive to the plight of the people,” the Premier said.
Collective approach towards GBVF
Letsoha-Mathae added that there was a need for a collective approach towards ending gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in the province and South Africa in general.
The Premier led a GBVF march in Bloemfontein on Wednesday, following the brutal murders of two young women in Mangaung.
The march, held under the banner “March for Justice”, was organised by various sectors and associations of society.
“Together, we are determined to overcome this pervasive threat that has invaded our communities. I urge men to stand up and protect women and children, while encouraging women to never tolerate any form of abuse," Letshoha-Mathae said.
Addressing key government priorities
Meanwhile, announcing the members of the Free State Executive Council for the seventh administration last week, Letsoha-Mathae said the team reflects the commitment to addressing key priorities of the provincial government, enhancing public service, and ensuring a sustainable future for all people.
She said each member brings a wealth of experience, commitment, and a shared vision for the prosperity of our province.
“This Executive Council shall be constituted of men and women who are dedicated to serving the people of the Free State with integrity, transparency, and responsiveness to the needs of our people and reflects our commitment to addressing key priorities of our government, enhancing public service, and ensuring a sustainable future for all our people,” the Premier said.
“This Executive Council shall be constituted of men and women who are dedicated to serving the people of the Free State with integrity, transparency, and responsiveness to the needs of our people,” she said.
The Members of the Executive Council are as follows:
• MEC for Finance, Tourism and Economic Development, Moses Ketso Makume
• MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure, Dibolelo Kathleen Mahlatsi
• MEC for Social Development, Nokwanje Selina Leeto
• MEC for Education, Mantlhake Julia Maboya
• MEC for Health, Monyatso Viceroy Mahlatsi
• MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs, Elizabeth Cornelia Rockman
• MEC for Community Safety, Roads and Transport, Jabu Ntsokolo Ishmael Mbalula
• MEC for COGTA and Human Settlements, Teboho Zacharia Mokoena
• MEC for Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Ntobizanele Beauty Sifuba
Visits to health facilities
The Premier will today conduct a monitoring visit to the health facilities accompanied by Health MEC Monyatso Mahlatsi.
The Premier will first visit Bongani Hospital in Welkom and then Katleho District Hospital in Virginia. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 06/28/2024 - 09:13
Eastern Cape women entrepreneurs aim high
A Sara Baartman District Women Entrepreneurs Awards (WEA) winner aspires to be a fabric design factory owner who will in turn be able to employ the local people of Makhanda.
Kholiswa Seti of Kholi Designs was named the best smallholder in the rural development category, during the WEA ceremony hosted by the Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) in the Sarah Baartman and Amathole districts.
As part of the annual Women Entrepreneur Awards, the provincial department has been recognising top performing women who are contributing to economic development and job creation through the agricultural sector.
The objective of the awards is to empower and honour women in agriculture and agro-processing sectors by recognising their contributions.
The awards are an instrument through which the contribution of women in the fight against poverty, hunger and joblessness is recognised to increase participation and visibility of women in the sector.
Expressing her joy in winning the award, Seti--who was displaying her products at the National Arts Festival held this week--said her win happened at the time when she “just identified my niche market.”
She said it was only on Monday when she got great reviews about the quality of her work when she decided to have two pop-ups stalls to showcase her products in a solo marketing venture.
Government assistance
“Just when the excitement got the better of me about this idea, the question was ‘where are you going to get the money girl?’ So, this prize money (R20 000) will make me pull-off this idea of pop-up stalls and I am grateful. Slowly but surely my dreams are coming true [and] soon I will be able to employ more people and have a factory, thanks to the government,” an elated Seti said.
Seti, who received an overlocker and straight industrial sewing machines last year from DRDAR, said before the assistance, she only had one domestic machine and was working alone. Now, she has been able to hire someone on a full-time basis and another part-time.
“I call the industrial machine I received from the department ‘magic machine’ because it is fast and delivers great quality while the overlocker is doing wonders,” she explained.
Kholi Designs produce traditional wear, smart to causal wear, as well as matric dance attire. She said the designs catered for specific seasons, adding that she is currently displaying and selling winter wear at the festival.
Seti is not new to winning awards having won the Best Designer range at the 2017 Nelson Mandela Bay Fashion Week.
Farming for the future
Another winner, Bongeka Gebuza from Khanyisa Agro-organics in Ngqeberha, was awarded the Youth Special Award for her sterling work in her rabbit farming enterprise.
Speaking about her love for rabbits and organic farming, the Bachelor of Science Honours in Agriculture student at Nelson Mandela University, said she was “always interested” in rabbits, especially their nutritional value and how to take care of them.
“When I was gifted three rabbits, I managed to breed them until I had 72,” Gebuza said.
The 34-year-old Gebuza is currently busy with her honours degree research on rabbit manure.
She said her research seeks to look at the soil nutrition where she is planting spinach, using rabbit manure on one side and chemical on the other one.
Gebuza, who casually eats and sells her rabbits, said the prize money will assist her with buying the expensive rabbit feed and improve their cages.
She said she will continue with farming.
“One day I want to be the supplier of rabbit manure. I do not have interest in working as I am more interested in entrepreneurship, but we need funding for that as young people,” an optimistic Gebuza said.
Gebuza encouraged the youth to look into the farming sector, as it has more job opportunities.
“They need to explore and start small while looking for funding,” she said.
The district winners will compete for silverware at the provincial awards ceremony to be awarded by new DRDAR MEC, Nonceba Kontsiwe. The contestants will later represent the province nationally at the awards ceremony to be held in August. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 06/28/2024 - 09:33
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SA ready to host World Rugby Under 20 Championship
The City of Cape Town says it is excited to welcome back the 12 participating nations in the World Rugby Under 20 Championship.
The 14th edition of the World Rugby U20 Championship takes place between 29 June and 19 July 2024, with South Africa being back-to-back hosts.
“What better time to have the World Rugby U20 Championship than during the school holidays. The event’s return to Cape Town for the second successive year is a testament to the Mother City’s reputation as a leading events destination.
“We are excited to support this event, bringing together some of the world's top talent and heart of rugby's next generation. I encourage all Capetonians to go out and show their support for our Junior Boks as well as welcome the visiting teams with electrifying gees,” City of Cape Town Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, said on Thursday.
The tournament sees the world’s 12 best nations competing over five match days across three world-class venues.
Athlone Stadium will stage pool matches while the iconic DHL Stadium will play host to key fixtures, including the opener, semi-finals and the final.
Selected matches will also be hosted at the Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch.
Fixtures
The Junior Boks go into the tournament having finished with a bronze medal at the 2023 championships held in the Mother City.
“This year’s championship sees the host nation in Pool C with England, Argentina and Fiji. France, Wales, New Zealand and Spain are in Pool A and 2023 runners-up Australia, Georgia and Italy are in Pool B.
“During the pool stages, six games will be played on match days, with kick-off times scheduled at 14:00, 16:30, and 19:00. The defending champions, France, open the tournament against debutantes Spain, while the host nation will kick off with a clash against Fiji at the DHL Stadium on 29 June 2024,” the city said.
SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer believes the tournament will match the excitement levels from last year’s competition.
“The World Rugby U20 Championship plays an important role in the global rugby picture and is key in promoting and growing the game, while we are also excited to unearth the next generation of Springboks,” Oberholzer said.
Tournament tickets are available through Ticketmaster, starting at R35 for children 18 years old and younger, and R75 for adults.
A ticket gives fans admission to three games a day per venue.
Traffic Restrictions
Meanwhile, residents and motorists are reminded to plan their travel as the following road restrictions will be in effect on match days:
For more information and other events hosted in Cape Town, the public can visit eventsincapetown.com. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 06/28/2024 - 10:50
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