MyZA

News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff

You are here: Home / Archives for new

new

World Nuclear Association to Highlight Southern Africa’s Nuclear Prospects

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

Director General of the World Nuclear Association (WNA) Dr. Sama Bilbao y León will speak at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) forum in Paris this May, unpacking unprecedented opportunities in southern Africa's energy sector. 

The WNA is an international organization that promotes nuclear power with the goal of tripling nuclear capacity by 2050 to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. On the African continent, South Africa is currently the only country with an operational nuclear power plant – the 1,860 MW Koeberg Nuclear Power Station – which accounts for approximately 5% of power generation. Last December, the country's Department of Mineral Resources and Energy announced plans to procure 2,500 MW of additional nuclear capacity and is in the process of seeking bids to commission new projects.

Organized by Energy Capital & Power, IAE 2024 (https://apo-opa.co/3UMOOtQ) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 14-15, 2024 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

Following the discovery of large uranium deposits in eastern Uganda, the East African nation is forming a joint venture with South Korea and Russia to construct two nuclear power facilities totaling 15,000 MW. Burkina Faso is partnering with Russia's Rosatom to construct a nuclear power plant, while Ethiopia and Zimbabwe have also signed agreements with Russia to cooperate on nuclear technology and infrastructure development. Rwanda is developing a nuclear reactor pilot project in-country, expected to be operational by 2026.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

Media files
Energy Capital & Power
Download logo
Read moreWorld Nuclear Association to Highlight Southern Africa’s Nuclear Prospects

New health centre to meet diverse needs of the community

Location: News

New health centre to meet diverse needs of the community

Jubilation and ululations, mixed with tears of joy, were the order of the day as the community of Umtubatuba in KwaZulu-Natal witnessed the sod turning ceremony marking the official start of the long-awaited construction of a local community health centre.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, joined by Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane and UMkhanyakude District Municipality Mayor, Siphile Mdaka, presided over the sod turning ceremony at the site for the construction of the Mtubatuba Community Health Centre (CHC), which will provide comprehensive health services.

The establishment of the community health centre represents a vital step towards redefining healthcare access for the residents of Umtubatuba. 

By bringing essential medical services closer to home, the CHC aims to alleviate the burden of traveling long distances in search of healthcare, thereby saving community costs and time. 

The initiative aligns with the overarching goal of ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare services for all members of the community.

The most noteworthy aspect of the CHC project is its commitment to provide a wide range of healthcare services tailored to meet the diverse needs of the community. 

Upon completion, the centre will serve as a one-stop destination for disease screenings, medication collection, dental and optometric consultations, TB and cancer screenings, as well as specialised services for male health. 

The centre will also offer free circumcision services and facilitate access to mobility aids, including wheelchairs and crutches, further enhancing the quality of life for residents.

Speaking at the event, Dube-Ncube said the construction of the community health centre will result in the creation of more than 300 jobs. 

The Premier urged people responsible for employing staff to refrain from employing people based on political affiliation or membership.
 
“We also discourage community members who demand that only local professional people must be employed in health facilities. Employment of professionals in these facilities need to be done on merit – irrespective of where the health professionals hail from,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier introduced the contractor tasked with the construction of the health centre and handed over ten vehicles to Community Policing Forums (CPFs) in Umkhanyakude District Municipality. 

The ten cars are part of a fleet of 85 vehicles that were unveiled during the handing over of tools of trade to community crime fighting structure in Durban on 5 April 2024. 

Simelane emphasised that access to quality healthcare is a human right, and people in rural areas are also entitled to it like others in urban areas.

The MEC also assured that the local community will receive priority during recruitment of people who will work during the construction of the facility.

The Department of Health said the construction of the health centre is expected to be  completed in the next three years.– SAnews.gov.za

 

 

GabiK
Sun, 04/21/2024 - 10:27

194 views
Read moreNew health centre to meet diverse needs of the community

Government makes progress in recovering rail services

Location: News

Government makes progress in recovering rail services

While commuter rail services have deteriorated due to criminal syndicates over the years, government is making significant strides in restoring passenger rail services that are reliable, safe, modern and affordable.

“To date, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has restored 31 of the 40 lines nationally, with over 263 of the 463 stations that were vandalised refurbished to basic functionality,” Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga said on Friday.

The Minister made these remarks after taking a trip on a train from the Nancefield to Johannesburg line, which was reopened recently.

In Gauteng, PRASA has recovered six more lines that were targeted for the 2023/24 financial year.

Trains are now running from Hercules to Belle Ombre, Pretoria to Kaalfontein, Leralla to Germiston, Germiston to Johannesburg, Germiston to Elsburg, Johannesburg to Naledi, Johannesburg to Nancefield, Johannesburg to Florida, connecting the three great municipalities of Gauteng: Pretoria, Ekurhuleni, and the City of Johannesburg - all the way to the West Rand.

“I am also pleased to tell you that since the recovery of the passenger rail services in the 2020/2021 financial year, over 70 million passenger trips have been made to date, from a low base of 7.4 million passenger trips made in the 2020/21 financial year. That is more than a tenfold increase and that makes us proud.

“Since the recovery of the Nancefield line, this service alone is making over 1 000 passenger trips per day.  Though we are not where we should be, this marks a significant improvement, and illustrates the demand for the service. It also tells the story that people are gradually choosing rail as their preferred mode of transport,” the Minister said.

PRASA anticipates that the numbers will steadily increase as more lines and stations are reopened.

“With the reopening of the Nancefield to Johannesburg railway line, we are seeing the transformative power of commuter rail services.

“Residents from Klipspruit, Mlamlakunzi, Sebokeng, Orange Farm, can now travel to industrial parks in Braamfontein, Germiston and various destinations by train. We are connecting people to places of work and economic opportunities - affordably.

“For soccer fans who enjoy watching games at the stadium, they can now travel to their favourite stadium via the Orlando station,” she said.

Chikunga said commuters have expressed that they are relieved now that the trains are back and can get to their various destinations on time, without the stress and uncertainty that came with the old PRASA train services.

“The people I have interacted with through this recovery journey appreciate the new high-tech trains, Isitimela Sabantu that we are rolling out on our corridors, proudly manufactured right at our backyard in Dunnottar, Gauteng.

“The people love the security features that come with the trains, they love the automated doors, the voice command that tells them of the next stopping stations and the air-conditioning system. More importantly, they appreciate the savings they make on travelling costs. They can now put more money back into their pockets,” the Minister said.

Chikunga said by providing affordable and efficient transportation options, government has empowered marginalised groups, improved access to opportunities, and fostered greater social and economic inclusion.

“Our people now have access to comfortable, modern trains that get them to their various destinations on time with the comfort of knowing that there is security onboard the train and on the station platforms.

“Work continues on these lines and the stations. Soon, residents from Katlehong, Springs, Midway, Roodepoort to Residentia, will be able to access these services.

“Our work now is to increase the frequency of the trains and reduce the waiting times for the next train to arrive. It is what they are asking for. The National signalling project has started in earnest,” the Minister said.

The new modern signalling system will ensure that trains run frequently and safely and this is while work continues to rehabilitate the stations.

“As national government, we made a commitment to not only empower our people but transform their lives. The investment made through our capital projects ensure that the economy continues to be the beacon of hope for many South Africans.

“Through the passenger rail capital projects, around R30 billion has been invested over the last two years to stimulate the economy, and over 5000 jobs have been created nationally just this last financial year,” the Minister said.

Another 312 jobs were created just on the rebuilding of the Nancefield line and16 local Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) appointed, boosting the local economy in these areas.

“The skills and on-job experience acquired go a long way in improving the lives of our people. The reopening of train services has also breathed in new life to the secondary/informal economy that was almost decimated when train services were suspended.

“Traders can now earn a living at our stations selling their products to commuters and visitors of various stations. We are making a positive impact on their well-being,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 11:14

508 views
Read moreGovernment makes progress in recovering rail services

Pandor welcomes Egypt into family of BRICS nations

Location: News

Pandor welcomes Egypt into family of BRICS nations

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, has welcomed Egypt into the family of BRICS nations.

“This development further enhances the role the South plays in global matters,” she said on Friday. 

The BRICS grouping of major emerging economies – Brazil, India, China, South Africa and Russia –  has admitted four new members. These include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. 

Pandor was speaking in Pretoria where she was co-chairing the 10th Session of the Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) with her counterpart, Egypt Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sameh Shoukry.

Meanwhile, Pandor said South Africa and Egypt need to exponentially increase trade and investment. 

“In this regard, partnerships between our private sectors and Sstate-owned entities are crucial. This also entails the need to formally establish and launch a Business Council,” she said. 

The Minister announced on Friday that a decision on the Business Council has been taken and once operational, this structure will go a long way in coordinating and galvanising trade and investment opportunities. 

She also asked her counterpart to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), which will facilitate easier trade.

“As an important blueprint and contributor to integration, the AfCFTA lessens the barriers towards trade, promotes preferential trade and provides an enabling framework, which will be mutually beneficial to both our two countries and the continent in general.”

She stated that long bonds of friendship, solidarity and collaboration underpin their relationship. 

Pandor also paid tribute to Egypt for supporting the country’s anti-apartheid movement, which eventually led to the demise of the old order and the creation of a democratic and free South Africa.

Pandor believes that the depth and impact of the bilateral relationship is very important. “The Cape to Cairo nexus should not only be one of our guiding lights but should highlight the importance of regional integration.” 

JCC

Meanwhile, Pandor said the framework provided by the JCC entails that the constituent committees cover a wide range of areas of bilateral cooperation. 

These include trade and investment, agriculture and agro-processing, infrastructure development, water resources management, health, financial services, tourism, transport, information technology, communications, women and people with disabilities, judicial matters, sport, arts and culture, people-to-people links and consular issues. 

She also announced that several Agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are expected to be concluded during the session. 

Conflict 

She highlighted several conflicts and wars that have erupted and called on the international community to be vigilant and redouble its efforts to promote peace, stability and development. 

“The United Nations, our premier guarantor of global order as enshrined in its charter, and the regional organisations should remain seized and be decisive in addressing these matters.” 

However, Pandor said the world was witnessing an attack on the global system of multilateralism and its institutions of governance.

“The world is seeing the rise of unilateralism and impunity that threatens to erode the very foundations of multilateralism, international law and the creation of a just and equitable world.”

South Africa, she said, is deeply concerned about the unfolding tragedy that has befallen the people of Palestine. 

“The catastrophe that is happening before our eyes in the Gaza Strip, with the destruction carried out by the occupying state of Israel, and the humanitarian disaster therein, is a collective blemish on the moral conscience of the world.” 

She also spoke about the unresolved plight of the Saharawi people. 

“Silencing the Guns on our continent is a pressing challenge that the African Union and the Regional Economic Communities should continue to address.” 

She reiterated South Africa’s position, which views dialogue, mediation and negotiations as vital for the peaceful resolution of conflicts. 

“In this regard, it is important not to further delay the reforms needed to transform the United Nations, particularly the United Nations Security Council, and for it to reflect the realities of today. In this endeavour, although North-South collaboration remains important, the Global South should remain united in ensuring that its voice is resoundingly clear.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 15:32

83 views
Read morePandor welcomes Egypt into family of BRICS nations

Nxesi calls on all spheres of government to work together to fight unemployment

Location: News

Nxesi calls on all spheres of government to work together to fight unemployment

Employment and Labour Minister, Thulas Nxesi, says government spheres must do away with a “silos mentality” as it prevents service delivery programmes from reaching ordinary citizens.  

In an effort to eradicate unemployment in South Africa, particularly among the youth, Nxesi engaged several potential employers and work-seekers at the Saldanha and Vredenburg areas in the Western Cape on Thursday. 

The Department of Employment and Labour is hosting a two-day jobs fair and service delivery initiative, where Nxesi has paid a visit to work-seekers at the local Vredenburg Sports Ground.  

The two-day event commenced with an Employer Breakfast Session where the Minister led discussions on labour market issues and addressing unemployment in the province. 

Nxesi said unemployment and employment have nothing to do with politics. 

“I want to repeat this, employment or no employment knows no politics. It is a crisis facing our young people. Therefore, when we deal with the issue of unemployment, we must know that we are dealing with a crisis, which is facing our young people. 

“And we are saying, we are interacting with all the Premiers, but our intention is very simple because the Premiers have the authority to talk with their departments and their municipalities. At the end of the day, if we want these programmes to be relevant they must come to the district and local municipalities and that is our logic,” he said. 

He is of the view that the problem with the state is not allowing each sphere of government to conduct programmes in provincial, district and local government. 

“The District Development Model (DDM) says we must come down to the people to talk with them. The President said he wants integration and coordination of all the programmes between national and all spheres of government. 

“We should do away with the silos. The problem with government is silo mentality and territorial,” he added.

The department and the Minister have since embarked on the initiative to provide a platform for employers to share information, engage with stakeholders and develop partnerships. 

The jobs fair initiative is championed by the department’s Public Employment Services (PES) branch and seeks to create opportunities for work seekers and provide a platform to interact with prospective employers. 

“These efforts should be understood against President [Cyril] Ramaphosa’s 2019 Budget Speech in which he committed government to the roll-out of a new integrated district-based approach – popularly known as the DDM tailored to promote and support local businesses and local communities.” 

Nxesi raised concerns about the unemployment rate on the West Coast, which he said was “alarmingly high”. 

“In an attempt to mitigate this, the department has considered the Jobs and Careers Fair as a useful platform where the unemployed, especially the youth, can meet with prospective employers from different sectors to access both jobs and learning opportunities,” said the Minister. 

The inter-departmental jobs fair involves the Departments of Small Business Development and Higher Education, Science and Innovation. 

The session also provides a platform where people can get access to career information and employment counselling; registration of work-seekers and exhibitions by various departments; registration of vacancies and or recruit work-seekers on the Employment System of South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 09:09

259 views
Read moreNxesi calls on all spheres of government to work together to fight unemployment

The Ultimate Guide to Modern Projectors

Location: MyPR

Introduction: A New Era of Visual Experience In the fast-evolving world of technology, the demand for high-quality projectors has surged, offering a gateway to superior visual experiences. Whether for personal or professional use, the current market is bustling with options, catering to a wide array of preferences and requirements. The Premier Selection: Highlighting Top Picks …

Read moreThe Ultimate Guide to Modern Projectors

Elevating Your Presence with a 10×20 Trade Show Booth

Location: MyPR

Expanding your trade show presence to a 10×20 trade show booth offers a fantastic opportunity to deepen engagement with attendees, showcase a broader range of products or services, and enhance your brand’s visibility. With double the space of a 10×10, a 10×20 booth allows for more creative design and interactive possibilities. Here’s how to fully …

Read moreElevating Your Presence with a 10×20 Trade Show Booth

Y’Africa, the TV show that showcases African talent: Orange announces a third season dedicated to the continent’s athletes

Location: News
Orange Middle East and Africa

Orange (www.Orange.com) is launching the third season of its flagship program Y'Africa, which will be broadcast weekly from mid-April on 15 national TV channels across Africa; This new season is dedicated to the journeys of 28 rising sporting talents from 12 countries; Like the first two seasons, it is directed by Dan Assayag and produced by Fame Productions; Season 3 has 7 episodes, each 52 minutes long.

The Y'Africa project was launched by Orange in February 2020. The first two seasons were very successful, not only on the 15 African terrestrial TV channels on which it was broadcast, but also on social media, where content from the series has racked up 80 million views. The first two seasons highlighted the richness and diversity of African culture by profiling 63 artists. The third season presents 28 high-level Olympic and Paralympic athletes and champions, each of them represents the continent's hopes.

Inspired by the extraordinary pool of talent seen across the continent, Y'Africa celebrates the vitality and plurality of modern Africa and its people. The name of the program also reflects this connection, “Y'Africa” is the contraction of “Africa Ya lelo”, or “Africa today” in Lingala.

Breathtaking images, extraordinary stories

Season 3 of Y'Africa involved 18 months of filming in all corners of the world: South Africa, Algeria, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Spain, the US, Ethiopia, France, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, and Tunisia. Among our 28 athletes are 13 Olympic champions, world champions, or world record holders, including:

  • Tigst ASSEFA (Ethiopia), World Marathon Women's Record Holder
  • Hugues Fabrice ZANGO (Burkina Faso), 2023 Triple Jump World Champion
  • Cheick Sallah Junior CISSÉ (Ivory Coast), 2023 World Champion, gold medalist at the 2016 Rio Taekwondo Olympics
  • Tamirat TOLA (Ethiopia), 2022 World Marathon Champion
  • Amane BERISO SHANKULE (Ethiopia), 2023 World Marathon Champion
  • Amos KIPRUTO (Kenya), bronze medalist at the 2019 World Marathon Championships
  • Sabastian KIMARU SAWE (Kenya), 2023 Road Half Marathon World Champion
  • Khadija EL MARDI (Morocco), World Heavyweight Champion in Amateur Boxing 2023
  • Nicolas Pieter DU PREEZ (South Africa), gold medalist at the Beijing 2020 Paralympic Games in Road Cycling
  • Djamel SEDJATI (Algeria), 2022 World Vice-Champion in the 800 Meters
  • Kaylia NEMOUR (Algeria), 2023 Vice-World Champion, Uneven Bars
  • Soumaya BOUSAID (Tunisia), bronze medalist at the Beijing 2020 Para-JOs in the 1500 Meters T13
  • Oussama MELLOULI (Tunisia), gold medalist at the 2012 London Olympics in the 10 Kilometer Open Water

Y'Africa Season 3 covers 21 Olympic disciplines, from traditional favorites (such as athletics, swimming, boxing, gymnastics, fencing, and judo) to the most exciting new ones (including BMX, skateboarding, and surfing). As well as the acclaimed athletes profiled in the series, we also feature rising athletes, training for top-level international competitions through sheer rigor and commitment, despite having not yet won a title. Their journeys, their preparation, and their stories are worth hearing.

Season 3 was also the occasion for last summer's launch of the Y'Africa Facebook page (https://apo-opa.co/4d04OPE). With more than 350,000 followers to date, this exceptional communication platform will help us continue to promote African talent.

Jérôme Hénique, CEO of Orange Africa and Middle East: “Season 3 of Y'Africa marks a new stage in our commitment to highlighting the wealth and diversity of African talent. This series offers a unique platform to celebrate our ambitious and determined youth. I am delighted that the Orange Group is once again playing a key role in highlighting these inspiring stories.”

Caroline Guillaumin, Executive Director of Communications at Orange: “In this Olympic year, we have decided to highlight the sporting talents of the African continent. After two seasons dedicated to artists, Y'Africa returns with an exceptional series of portraits of athletes, women and men, champions, and their aspirations, all arranged around the theme of surpassing oneself. Through this program, launched in 2020, we want to share the dynamics of the African continent with as many people as possible. It is also another way of consolidating the Orange brand by establishing a sincere dialogue with audiences.”

Dan Assayag, Director: “I have admired the beauty, grace, agility, and power of athletes when they realize their full potential. I have understood why motivation is nothing without discipline. I have observed that top athletes have an above-average work capacity. I have also seen their tolerance of pain. I have understood that Olympic sport is a world of its own. And they made me understand, all in their own ways, what it meant to represent your country as an African. For all these reasons, Season 3 of Y'Africa is special for me.”

Discover the first episode of the new season: https://apo-opa.co/49KN1ci

Password: Y'africa

Additional information on Season 3 of Y'Africa is available on Orange.com

And here (https://apo-opa.co/3Jp4axr) you can find the biographies of the athletes, photos and a trailer, as well as the broadcast schedule for the program in the different countries.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Orange Middle East and Africa.

Press contacts:
Elodie Filopon
ef@35ouest.com
+225 07 89 031 724

Ibtissame Nafii
ibtissame.nafii@orange.com
+33 6 37 38 60 50

About Orange:
Orange is one of the main telecommunications companies in the world, with a turnover of 44.1 billion euros in 2023 and 137,000 employees as of December 31, 2023, including 73,000 in France. The group served 298 million customers on December 31, 2023, including 254 million mobile customers and 25 million fixed broadband customers. The group is present in 26 countries. Orange is also one of the world leaders in telecommunications services to multinational companies under the Orange Business brand. In February 2023, the group presented its Lead the Future strategic plan, built on a new business model, and guided by responsibility and efficiency. Lead the Future capitalizes on high-standard networks to strengthen Orange's leadership in quality of service.

Orange is listed on Euronext Paris (ORA) and on the New York Stock Exchange (ORAN).

For more information, see www.Orange.com, www.Orange-Business.com, and the Orange News app, or follow us on Twitter: @presseorange.

Orange and any Orange product or service mentioned in this press release are trademarks owned by Orange or Orange Brand Services Limited.

Media files
Orange Middle East and Africa
Download logo
Read moreY’Africa, the TV show that showcases African talent: Orange announces a third season dedicated to the continent’s athletes

Luxury Unveiled: Art Trader and RED! the gallery Present an Exclusive Auction Event in Cape Town

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

Cape Town, 18 April 2024: Brace yourselves for an evening of cultural immersion as Art Trader and the esteemed RED! the gallery proudly announces their collaboration to host an unparalleled art auction extravaganza. David Endean and Lisa King extend a cordial invitation to art enthusiasts far and wide to join them for an unforgettable soirée …

Read moreLuxury Unveiled: Art Trader and RED! the gallery Present an Exclusive Auction Event in Cape Town

Perfectly paired: LG’s soundbar brings the WOW factor to your smart TV

Location: MyPR

With its WOW Orchestra, Interface, Cast and Bracket, the LG SC9S soundbar is an essential component that takes the overall viewing experience to new audiovisual heights. As technology continues to advance, the demand for immersive home entertainment experiences has never been higher. LG Electronics, a pioneer in the realm of cutting-edge audiovisual innovation, raised the …

Read morePerfectly paired: LG’s soundbar brings the WOW factor to your smart TV

W Cape State vets at the centre of efforts to increase agricultural exports

Location: News

W Cape State vets at the centre of efforts to increase agricultural exports

Western Cape State veterinarians have been lauded for the province’s efforts to increase agricultural exports. 

According to the Western Cape MEC for Agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer, the province is responsible for 55% of South Africa’s primary agricultural exports, with nearly 50% being livestock or livestock products. 

The MEC was addressing 1 500 delegates from 48 different countries attending the 39th World Veterinary Association Congress, which is currently underway at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in Cape Town.

Meyer said the Western Cape Department of Agriculture’s Veterinary Services recently launched its innovative online electronic Export Certificate Office System (ECOS). 

“ECOS provides the customer with a 24-hour export facilitation service, reducing the export certificate application process from days to minutes. The platform streamlines the export process and ensures compliance with international standards. Exports contribute to foreign exchange earnings and a 5% increase in exports will lead to approximately 22 000 new jobs in the agriculture sector in the Western Cape,” he explained. 

He also announced that the Western Cape Government’s (WCG) R30 million revamp of the Provincial Veterinary Laboratory facilities has been completed and that the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) and International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) 17025 certificated laboratory re-opened on 1 April 2024.

Expressing his concern about the shortage of veterinarians, Meyer said the international norm for veterinary services is 200 to 400 veterinarians per million of the population. In comparison, South Africa has around 60 to 70 veterinarians per million. 

“This represents only 25% of our requirements. Therefore, this is a great concern, which puts the country’s food security and human health at risk. A fully staffed veterinary service is a critical enabler to a thriving agriculture sector in the province. The agriculture sector creates jobs and drives economic growth.”

Commenting further on conditions under which live animals are transported at sea, Meyer stated that the unacceptable conditions in which live animals are transported highlight the need to consider placing a ban on the transport of live animals and the importance of biosecurity. 

“This year, the Western Cape Department of Agriculture will prioritise veterinary services and biosecurity. Organisations such as the World Veterinary Association and the South African Veterinary Association (SAVA) will play a key role in strengthening our response to the challenges facing the profession and our sector. We must defend animal welfare and advance biosecurity,” Meyer said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 04/18/2024 - 09:05

433 views
Read moreW Cape State vets at the centre of efforts to increase agricultural exports

Patel welcomes VW’s R4 billion investment in SA

Location: News

Patel welcomes VW's R4 billion investment in SA

Volkswagen South Africa’s (VWSA) investment of R4 billion in their assembly plant in Kariega, in the Eastern Cape, has been welcomed by Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel. 

The investment will introduce a new SUV model built on the Polo platform. 

The move also positions the facility as the sole manufacturer of the Polo brand globally and the new SUV model will be exported to global markets.

Patel addressed the public announcement on Wednesday held at VWSA’s facility in Kariega.

He said the investment was a testament to the country’s industrial policy, and it will not only strengthen the assembly plant but also secure the livelihoods of approximately 3 500 people who are directly employed by VWSA.

“Moreover, this investment has rippled through this part of the Eastern Cape, fostering an ecosystem of prosperity and industrialisation, supporting an estimated 50 000 indirect jobs and livelihoods.”

In the last five years, the department said government has undertaken significant work to bolster automotive production in South Africa. 

Patel highlighted 10 actions, which have been taken in the sixth administration to support the industry:

• New Automotive Masterplan crafted together with the industry was implemented in July 2021, setting the policy framework for the next decade. 

• The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) has concluded modalities, including rules of origin for a first list of auto products, opening up a vast market.

• A free-trade agreement with the United Kingdom after Brexit was concluded and implemented, which enabled South Africa to retain access to preferential terms in the United Kingdom market. 

• The establishment of the R6 billion Auto Industry Transformation Fund, which VWSA and other Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) contribute to bringing Black component manufacturers into the supply chain. 

• A major agreement with tier 1 auto component manufacturers has been concluded that will ensure greater opportunities for Black manufacturers in tier 2 or tier 3 levels. 

• R50 billion in investment commitments in the auto sector have been secured. 

• A landmark agreement with Stellantis for the construction of a new R3 billion plant in the Coega Special Economic Zone has been reached. 

• Semi-knocked down (SKD) production by BAIC, also in the Coega Special Economic Zone, has commenced as a first phase toward more value-additive complete knocked down (CKD) production. 

• A new Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone has been established, with 10 factories for Ford suppliers already built by March 2024, employing 3 300 workers. 

• The Electric Vehicle Policy was finalised by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic), and a new incentive package to assist the transition was announced by the Minister of Finance in the 2024 Budget.

According to the department, the automotive industry plays a crucial role in our economy, contributing significantly to gross domestic product (GDP) and employment. 

The manufacturing component of the auto industry contributed 2.9% of South Africa’s GDP in 2022. 

With over 115 000 direct employees and an additional 240 000 indirect jobs, the department said the auto industry remains a cornerstone of South Africa's manufacturing sector. 

“Despite global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and supply chain disruptions, South Africa’s automotive industry has continued to grow.”

Over the past five calendar years, South African OEMs produced 2.7 million vehicles and exported 1.7 million vehicles.

In 2023, South Africa exported a record 399 594 vehicles, a milestone for its industrial resilience and global competitiveness.

Notably, last year, South Africa exported its six millionth vehicle since the start of the democratic era. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Thu, 04/18/2024 - 11:14

255 views
Read morePatel welcomes VW’s R4 billion investment in SA

Jacaranda FM’s Good Morning Angels Assists With R150,000 Donation to Pretoria-Based Skills Development Centre

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

New Hope School, a beacon of hope and education for children with special needs in Pretoria, is set to receive a generous donation of R150,000 from Jacaranda FM’s Good Morning Angels initiative. The donation, facilitated by Power Build and supported by Jacaranda FM, will contribute towards the construction of a much-needed Skills Development Centre at …

Read moreJacaranda FM’s Good Morning Angels Assists With R150,000 Donation to Pretoria-Based Skills Development Centre

Brahman Hills Experience Set to Dazzle

Location: MyPR

With just under a month remaining until The Brahman Hills Experience, bookings have reached 70% capacity, with only a few coveted spots left. This exclusive weekend getaway promises an unparalleled blend of luxury, culinary excellence, artistic beauty, and adventure set amidst the breathtaking backdrop of Brahman Hills’ international award-winning gardens. Guests attending this exclusive event …

Read moreBrahman Hills Experience Set to Dazzle

MSC Cruises Introduces Seven Distinct Districts To Its Newest Ground-Breaking Ship, MSC World America, New For 2025

Location: MyPR

• From a dedicated family area or tranquil zen area through to a lively promenade with entertainment, shops and bars – a world of options awaits for guests • MSC Cruises’ new flagship to sail from homeport in Miami, Florida, USA from April 2025, with sailings already available to book MSC Cruises revealed today that …

Read moreMSC Cruises Introduces Seven Distinct Districts To Its Newest Ground-Breaking Ship, MSC World America, New For 2025

Revolutionising Home Comfort: The Impact of Smart Blinds and Light Switches

Location: MyPR

In the realm of home automation, two standout innovations—smart blinds and smart light switches—are transforming our living spaces into havens of convenience, efficiency, and personalized comfort. These technologies are not merely about adopting the latest trends; they’re about reimagining how our homes serve us, making everyday interactions with our environment simpler, more intuitive, and tailored …

Read moreRevolutionising Home Comfort: The Impact of Smart Blinds and Light Switches

RS South Africa Partners with a Kenyan Reseller as a Cornerstone of Its African Strategy

Location: News
RS South Africa

RS South Africa (https://Africa.RSdelivers.com/), a trading brand of RS Group plc (LSE: RS1), a global provider of product and service solutions for industrial customers, has signed up a new reseller in Kenya as a cornerstone of its reseller strategy across Africa.

“As the largest economy in East Africa, Kenya serves as our gateway for market expansion,” comments Prosper Shoniwa, Exports Business Development and Operational Manager, RS South Africa. Such collaboration transcends mere revenue growth. “It is about solidifying our brand presence and fostering lasting connections within the region.”

“The decision to partner with RS stems from our commitment to align ourselves with world-leading products and brands. RS represents excellence and innovation in the industry, making it the perfect fit for our strategic objectives. By joining forces with RS, we aim to offer our customers access to top-notch solutions that meet their evolving needs,” comments Sukhvinder Sagoo, Director, Hydromatics (www.Hydromaticsea.com).

Hydromatics will serve as a key reseller tasked with marketing and selling the full range of RS products in the marketplace. They have a long-standing presence in the Kenyan market, providing them with valuable insight into market dynamics and customer needs. This knowledge enables them to maintain optimal stock levels to reduce lead times and minimise downtime for corporate clients in terms of spare parts and components. Customers also stand to benefit from access to a technically proficient RS partner in Hydromatics, which is equipped to address their challenges effectively.

RS's focus on Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) procurement streamlines purchasing processes, potentially saving corporates up to 35% in expenditure. Moreover, customers can expect top-notch service, thanks to RS's commitment to deliver goods within four to six days. In addition, its in-country resellers are highly qualified professionals dedicated to understanding and addressing client needs comprehensively, ensuring a seamless experience.

“Our strategy is clearly focused on corporate customers, key accounts and appointment of resellers in our focus countries. Adding to this is the critical discussion around MRO, which is our unique value proposition. We believe that this clear route to market strategy and our value proposition will drive our growth in Sub-Saharan Africa,” concludes Shoniwa.

For more information about our extensive product range, visit: www.RSonline.Africa

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of RS South Africa.

PR Contact Person – RS South Africa:
Princess Tlou
Communications & Content Specialist
Africa Exports
Princess.Tlou@rsgroup.com
+27 11 691 9366

Media Contact Person – NGAGE:
Thobile Ndlovu
PR Account Executive
thobile@ngage.co.za
+27 11 867 7763

Further information is available via these links:
Twitter : https://apo-opa.co/3T0ICwS 
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3I5UIyE
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3T2j16J
RS Africa Exports: https://apo-opa.co/42GY3gZ
RS South Africa: https://apo-opa.co/48m0si7
DesignSpark: https://apo-opa.co/4bJaCwo
RS Group plc: https://apo-opa.co/49isz2Z

About RS Group:
RS is a trading brand of RS Group plc, providing product and service solutions that help our customers design, build, maintain, repair and operate industrial equipment and operations, safely and sustainably. We stock more than 750,000 industrial and electronic products, sourced from over 2,500 leading suppliers, and provide a wide range of product and service solutions to 1.1 million customers.

We support customers across the product lifecycle, whether via innovation and technical support at the design phase, improving time to market and productivity at the build phase, or reducing purchasing costs and optimising inventory in the maintenance, repair and operation phase. We offer our customers tailored product and service propositions that are essential for the successful operation of their businesses and help them save time and money.

RS Group plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange with stock ticker RS1 and in the year ended 31 March 2023 reported revenue of £2,982 million.

Media files
RS South Africa
Download logo
Read moreRS South Africa Partners with a Kenyan Reseller as a Cornerstone of Its African Strategy

Thabong Service Centre, a shining example of excellence

Location: News

Thabong Service Centre, a shining example of excellence

by Simphiwe Mngomezulu

Thusong Service Centre Managers and Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) provincial teams from all corners of the country gathered on Tuesday in the Matjhabeng Local Municipality to learn best practices from the Thabong Service Centre.

The benchmarking programme was hosted by the National Inter-Sectoral Steering Committee (NISSC) which is the national coordination structure of the Thusong Service Centre Programme, chaired by the GCIS at national level.

The vibrant intergovernmental programme took place in the heart of the township at the Boitumelo Junction Mall.

During the event, the Thabong Service Centre was acknowledged as one of the most optimally and efficiently performing Thusong Service Centres in the country. It is also the second urban Thusong Centre to be located within a mall like the centre located at Maponya Mall in Gauteng. 

The one-stop-shop provides information and integrated government services from various departments, including the Office of the Premier, South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), Social Development, Labour and Employment, GCIS and the local Councilor.

Lejweleputswa District Municipality Executive Mayor, Veronica Ntakumbana, attended the event and spoke about the importance of bringing services closer to the people.

According to Boitumelo Junction Mall marketing manager, Mampoi Mahasa, the centre services a low-income community that cannot afford to frequently travel to town to access government services.

“The availability of SASSA and the clinic in the centre has been of great help to the community,” said Mampoi.

The Thusong Service Centre programme was first launched in 1999. The Free State province currently has five operational Thusong Service Centers.

The NISSC: Thusong Service Centre programme will run over three days.

On Wednesday, the structure will host a meeting at Mangaung Municipality to provide feedback from the last meeting held in April 2023 and further outline new projects.

On 18 April 2024, the NISSC will host another integrated services outreach at Hoffman Square, in Bloemfontein Central which will be followed by the Annual Thusong Service Centre Awards.

The Awards will take place at the Floreat Hall, Bram Fischer Building, Mangaung Metro, in Bloemfontein. The event will be officiated by the Deputy Ministers in the Presidency and the Premier of the Free State, Mxolisi Dukwana. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Wed, 04/17/2024 - 10:04

131 views
Read moreThabong Service Centre, a shining example of excellence