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new
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Draft work visa regulations a boon for attracting skills
Draft work visa regulations a boon for attracting skills
South Africa’s new draft work visa regulations are a milestone for the country’s efforts to attract investment and promote job creation.
This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who addressed the nation through his weekly newsletter on Monday.
Last week, the Department of Home Affairs released the draft second amendment of the Immigration Regulations for public comment. The draft regulations deal with remote work and critical skills visas.
“The publication of the new draft regulations are part of our ongoing drive to reform the country’s visa system, making it easier to attract the skills our economy's needs and promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. An efficient, agile, responsive visa regime is key to attracting business investment and boosting economic growth.
“International experience shows that employees with critical skills contribute to improved productivity, enhanced innovation, and improving the competitiveness of the firms they work for,” President Ramaphosa said.
He explained that the new remote working visa is a response to “the rapidly evolving world of work, where increasing numbers of skilled workers…are attracted by the lifestyle benefits of working from a remote location”.
“It also caters to so-called digital nomads, who are able to work virtually from any location in the world. A remote worker who wants to work in South Africa while being employed by a foreign company will be able to receive such a visa.
“The draft regulations propose the introduction of a points system for critical skills visas that will take into account factors such as age, qualifications, language skills, work experience and having an offer of employment, amongst others,” the President said.
Attracting the right skills
President Ramaphosa explained that although South Africa has invested in producing the skills needed for the digital economy, more is needed.
“To succeed in an ever-changing global economy, our country needs far more people with the right skills. This is so that our economy can be competitive, grow and create employment. As a country, we have invested much in producing these skills, from significantly expanding access to higher education, introducing digital programmes in TVET colleges and a shift to a new pay-for-performance approach to skills development.
“However, it will take some time before we will be able to produce enough skilled people to enable our country to grow rapidly.”
He added that attracting these skills to South Africa will be important as the country is “fast becoming an increasingly attractive destination for industries like business process outsourcing and customer experience”.
“Last year, for example, a leading international strategic advisory firm ranked South Africa second as the most favoured offshore customer experience delivery destination globally. Since 2016, government has invested more than R3 billion towards supporting the growth and expansion of business process outsourcing and is targeting the creation of approximately 500 000 jobs in the sector by 2030.
“In line with our ongoing efforts to attract higher levels of investment and promote job creation, the new work visa regulations are a milestone. They are part of high-impact structural reforms we are undertaking to improve the business operating environment.
“They send a clear signal to business that we are committed to attracting skills that meet the demands of a modern, inclusive and growing economy,” he concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 10:09
885 views
Gauteng Health cautions against risky sexual behaviour as STI infection rises
Gauteng Health cautions against risky sexual behaviour as STI infection rises
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has cautioned the public against engaging in risky sexual behaviour, as this increases the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV infection.
Between April and December 2023, 167 109 males presented at public health facilities across the province and 67 400 (40%) were treated for male urethritis syndrome (MUS).
According to the provincial department, the MUS data accurately reflect newly acquired STIs.
Symptoms of MUS include discharge from the penis and burning urination.
If left untreated, complications can include pain and swelling of the testes, while gonorrhoeae and chlamydia are the most predominant cause of MUS in South Africa.
In 2020, the MUS incidence in the province was recorded at 12% and has increased over the years to 15% in 2023.
The department said it has noticed a peak of STI incidence in sub-districts E (Alexandra and Sandton) and F (Inner City, Braamfontein and Hillbrow) in Johannesburg.
Some areas include the Merafong sub-district in the West Rand, Katlehong, Ekurhuleni South, Germiston, Katlehong and Vooslorus, Lesedi in Sedibeng and Bronkhorstspruit in Tshwane.
Sub-districts E and F in Johannesburg have tertiary institutions and high-risk individuals such as sex workers and people who inject drugs.
Meanwhile, Merafong is a mining area with a majority male population. Region 7 has farming areas, where cultural norms hinder the uptake of services, especially amongst men.
Ekurhuleni South and Lesedi have technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges, informal settlements, truck stops and hostels.
The GDoH has implemented a combination of prevention intervention approaches, which incorporate STI components in these areas such as the promotion of consistent use of male and female condoms, which are free and available in health facilities.
The interventions also involve encouraging the reduction in the number of sexual partners, increased uptake of HIV counselling and testing, STI screening, delayed sexual debut, as well as the promotion of sexual wellbeing.
The MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko has urged people who are sexually active to use male and female condoms, which they can access free at their local healthcare centres to protect themselves against STIs and HIV.
She said the rise in MUS is attributed to high rates of unsafe behaviour such as non-use of condoms while engaging in vaginal or anal sex, multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, high levels of substance use and cultural norms.
“Our clinics provide free condoms and STI and HIV prevention, testing and treatment services. We should not let STIs go untreated, as they increase the risk of HIV infection and transmission, which will hamper the province’s goal to reduce new HIV infections by 2030,” emphasised Nkomo-Ralehoko.
In addition, the MEC encouraged women to start early antenatal care as soon as they realise that they are pregnant for thorough screening of any STI, and appropriate and timely treatment for those who test positive.
Between April and December 2023, she said 1 255 out of 66 377 pregnant women who presented at our facilities for antenatal care for the first time tested positive for syphilis.
“If left untreated in pregnant women, syphilis can have adverse outcomes for the growing baby as well as increased morbidity in the mother. It can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy (congenital syphilis), leading to stillbirths, health complications, congenital deformities and even infant death,” said the concerned MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko.
The MEC also said that there has been a noticeable increase in women who are presenting at health facilities to be initiated on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), which is an antiretroviral drug prescribed for HIV-negative people to prevent them from becoming infected with HIV.
Between April and November 2023, 38 305 females aged 15 to 49 years were initiated on PrEP, compared to 11 988 males.
“We believe that the high uptake of PrEP among women has led this group to have unprotected sex resulting in a high incidence of MUS. The studies have reported that STI incidence is also high among young women receiving PrEP.
“We would like to encourage more males to get initiated on PrEP to protect themselves against STIs. Additionally, both men and women who are on PrEP should use condoms to protect themselves against STIs, HIV and unwanted pregnancies,” the MEC said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 11:29
1013 views
Transnet steps up efforts to curb shipping delays
Transnet steps up efforts to curb shipping delays
The first batch of four hydraulic mooring units procured by Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) to improve operations and reduce shipping delays at ports have been delivered and operationalised at the Ports of Cape Town and Ngqura.
The batch is part of the 52 units procured by the authority.
TNPA General Manager for Infrastructure, Thecla Mneney, said: “This marks the first of a series of major port equipment deliveries at our commercial seaports this year. We continue to make progress in fast-tracking the implementation of key investments in port infrastructure to improve operational efficiencies and provide quality service to the maritime industry”.
The TNPA also explained the uses of the units.
“A hydraulic tension mooring unit is a system that is placed on the quayside to ensure the safety of vessels alongside and mitigate the severity of long-wave effects on vessels. The units assist with stabilising vessels alongside during strong winds, adverse weather conditions and high swells. The benefits also include minimized down-time and safety during operations.
“The new mooring units increases TNPA’s capacity to prevent excessive surge motions of vessels alongside, bringing the total number of units to six at the Port of Cape Town and four at the Port of Ngqura.
“TNPA has procured 52 shore tension units with an allocation of 16 units for the Port of Cape Town, 14 for the Port of Durban, eight for the Port of Port Elizabeth, six for the Port of Ngqura, four for the Port of Saldanha and four for the Port of Richards Bay. The phased delivery of the rest of the units will be completed by early 2025,” TNPA said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 11:30
440 views
Headline sponsors contribute to Simola Hillclimb success
Castrol celebrates fifth year as official lubricants partner of Simola Hillclimb Suzuki Auto South Africa enters fourth year in 2024, continues as Tier 1 sponsor Volkswagen’s second year as Tier 2 sponsor, will feature ex-WRX Polo again Other key sponsors include Hyundai, XPEL and PG Glass 14th edition of the Simola Hillclimb takes place […]
Green projects to present investment pipeline of over $1 billion at Africa’s Green Economy Summit
CAPE TOWN, 30 January 2024: Africa’s Green Economy Summit, taking place from 21-23 February 2024 in Cape Town, not only features the continent’s major sustainability thought leaders, but also provides a springboard for companies operating in the green sector to sell themselves to investors. The event brings together key African stakeholders – including investors, project …
Fanta® Unveils Apple Pie as the Mystery Flavour in South Africa’s #WhatTheFanta Campaign
The wait is over! Fanta in South Africa reveals Apple Pie as the much-anticipated mystery flavour of the #WhatTheFanta campaign 2023, leaving everyone surprised and excited.
After months of exhilarating guesswork, adventurous sip-testing, and endless fun, we finally unveil the mysterious limited-edition flavour - an unanticipated yet delightful Apple Pie. This distinctive flavour combines scrumptious dessert-inspired notes with an enticing purple hue.
"We have been thrilled by the response to our #WhatTheFanta campaign in South Africa. We know everyone loves a mystery flavour challenge and our mission is to inject playfulness into the grey of the everyday. This fun flavour mystery got Fanta enthusiasts across South Africa involved, guessing, and discussing what the mystery flavour could be," said Ramokone Ledwaba, Senior Marketing Director at Coca-Cola Africa.
Our thrilling #WhatTheFanta campaign offered more than just website clues. Consumers enjoyed a thrilling treasure hunt through the streets of Mzansi, finding novel Fanta clues at participating retailers. This campaign reached new heights with influencer collaborations, digital promotions, TV commercials, and enticing instant wins. Prizes included vibrant purple Crocs, the latest iPhone 15, unique Airbnb experiences, vouchers, and more!
The Apple Pie flavour perfectly embodies Fanta's vibrant spirit, creating a wave of excitement through its dessert-themed flavour containing no added sugar. True to Fanta's legacy, it continues to encourage its fans to embrace a playful and adventurous outlook on life.
We express our gratitude for the participation from our Fanta lovers! Head out, grab a bottle of the limited edition deliciously mysterious Apple Pie – while stocks last – and keep the Fanta flavour festivities going! Join the fun on social media platforms using the hashtag #WhatTheFanta.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca-Cola.
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About The Coca-Cola Company:
The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company's purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes Coca-Cola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and AdeS. We're constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people's lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.Coca-ColaCompany.com and follow us on Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/42DbAWX), Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4bKvZ0m) and LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/3UC5vYv).
Infrastructure development
Infrastructure development
By David Jacobs
Investments in infrastructure made today are an investment in a nation’s future success. It enhances mobility and accessibility, facilitates enhanced trade, overall economic productivity and boosts a country’s wellbeing.
In understanding this crucial interplay, government launched its infrastructure investment programme in mid-2020 to build critical network infrastructure such as ports, roads and rail across the country.
These infrastructure projects have been steadily gaining momentum, turning many parts of the country into construction zones. One such project is the N2 and N3 Upgrade Programme which is expanding the capacity of our national highways in Kwa-Zulu Natal
It includes the ground breaking R2.4bn Ashburton Interchange Project in the Msunduzi Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, which will see additional lanes being constructed. This section of highway has been hamstrung by chronic traffic congestion that prevents the quick movement of freight.
With more than 60 percent of goods transported through this corridor, the road is a key economic artery for the movement of goods from the Port of Durban, the largest port in Sub-Saharan Africa, to the rest of South Africa and the continent.
We see this project as central to our country’s competitiveness and to the growth of the economy. Through the smooth movement of goods and services across our economy, we can enhance efficiencies, attract investment and boost job creation.
Importantly, the upgrades will not only reduce the overall travel time for road freight transport but also ensure increased safety for all road users.
Government has placed infrastructure development at the heart of our country’s economic recovery plan because it is widely known that infrastructure has a powerful multiplier effect on restoring economic growth, creating new jobs and protecting livelihoods.
Through the Ashburton Interchange Project, we have created a number of direct jobs and indirect jobs for surrounding communities. The project is also helping draw more young people into the productive sectors of the economy through training and learnerships.
The Ashburton Interchange Project adds to other projects already at an advanced stage of construction on the N3, such as the widening a section of the Camperdown Interchange and the road upgrade between Dardanelles and Lynnfield Park in Kwa-Zulu Natal.
Another major highway upgrade being undertaken at an investment of over R 10 Billion is the N2 Wild Coast road project which connects the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga.
Once completed, the route will shorten travel times, making it 1,5 hours faster for light vehicles and 3 hours faster heavy freight transport. This will significantly reduce vehicle carbon emissions and the time-cost saving to motorists and freight operators will be approximately R1.5 billion per annum.
The project will also see the construction of the highest bridges on the African continent with the R1.65 billion cable-stay Msikaba Bridge. The bridge will be 580m in length and be 195m high, showcasing our country’s engineering excellence.
Infrastructure projects similar to these road transport projects are being prepared and packaged for investors by Infrastructure South Africa (ISA). ISA is also driving project preparation to enhance transparency and eliminate key risks at the earliest possible time.
Our logistics infrastructure investments also extend to our nation’s ports as we address slow turnaround times. Following an internal diagnostic review by Transnet, there are plans to invest R160 billion to address the infrastructure.
It includes procuring 16 gantry cranes and acquisition of four ship-to-shore cranes to address slow turnaround times affecting the docking and offloading of containers at the port. Transnet also plans to deepen and lengthen two berths at its Durban Container Terminal Pier 2 which handles about 65 percent of the country’s containerised cargo as part of efforts to ease backlogs.
Government is addressing concerns of corruption and maladministration in the construction industry through our anti-corruption strategy designed specifically for the sector. It sets out to detect and prevent corruption and we are working closely with the Special Investigating Unit to execute the strategy.
As we gather pace on our infrastructure development, we are certain to see the benefits in our economy and on jobs. Through our investments in infrastructure we are setting the foundation for a much brighter future.
David Jacobs is Chief Director: Cluster Communication at Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)
Neo
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 09:53
125 views
Klaasen credits ‘hard work’ behind the scenes for Betway SA20 Season 2 success
Baartman and Jansen reflect on championship-winning performances Sunday, 11 February 2024: Heinrich Klaasen’s last 12 months have been out of this...
Canon Student Development Programme 2024 to open for entries this month
Up to 100 students to receive mentorship from industry experts representing established news agencies and news publications, as well as Canon Ambassadors (www.Canon-CNA.com); A shortlist of 25 students will be invited to take part in a four-day workshop in Girona, including a visit to Visa pour l'Image, where they can form new connections with professionals and peers; Applications are being accepted between 12th February and 7th March to students across Europe, Middle East and Africai.
Canon Europe announces the call for entries for the eighth edition of the Canon Student Development Programme (CSDP), a prestigious annual programme designed to help aspiring photojournalists advance their careers. The industry-leading initiative offers access and exposure to experienced professionals from the photographic community and the opportunity to attend key industry events.
CSDP has established itself as an invaluable springboard to the next generation of photojournalists. Former alumni have gone on to work for reputable news agencies and internationally renowned publications and continued to build successful careers. 2022 alumni Mohamed Mahdy (b. 1996), whose work focusses on the hidden and often unseen communities in Egypt, has won a main prize at the 2023 World Press Photo awards in the Open Format category. Fellow alumni Alexandra Corcode (b. 2000) has been selected for the 2023 Tom Stoddard Award for Excellence with her intimate portrayal of loneliness and abandonment amongst the elderly generation in her home country of Romania. Finalists of the 2023 programme, Ebrahim Alipoor and Fatma Fahmy, have both been selected for the 2024 VII Mentor program, run by VII Academy.
The 2024 edition is open to students and internsi residing and studying in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, with applications running from February 12th until March 7th. A limited number of spaces will also be available to talent endorsed by industry professionals. Submissions will be judged by a panel of editors from Getty Images, Reuters Pictures, AFP and EPA who will decide on the initial cohort of the region's most promising young storytellers.
One-to-one mentorships
The selected students will be partnered up with one of the programme's expert mentors, with the aim to discuss their current work and longer-term career aspirations in dedicated one-to-one sessions. Virtual reviews throughout summer will help refine their new project proposal and current portfolio – with a particular focus on exploring different editing options and ways to further strengthen narrative skills and develop authorial signatures.
Canon Ambassador and photojournalist, Brent Stirton said, “This is a unique programme to meet and spend time with curators, editors and photographers – a real investment into the future of photography. Stats show that only a fraction of those who study photography survive in the profession long term, and I know that it will make a profound difference for those selected. Growing up in South Africa, there was no way that I could've accessed some of the best editors and photographers in the world when I was starting out, much less borrowing some of the best gear out there.”
Girona workshop and Visa pour l'Image in Perpignan, France
In September, up to 25 students will be invited to a four-day Canon workshop in a grand Catalan farmhouse in Girona, Spain, concluding with a final night's stay at the Visa pour l'Image international photojournalism festival in Perpignan, France.
The workshop will offer an intimate forum to exchange ideas and build relationships with renowned professionals from the world of photography. Group portfolio reviews offer a rich learning opportunity for students and a chance to both critique the work of their fellow peers, as well as receive professional feedback on their own.
Aside from taking in the key exhibitions and evening screenings during Visa pour l'Image, students will also have the opportunity to participate in additional portfolio reviews and further expand their network.
To apply to be a part of the 2024 Canon Student Development Programme or view the entry criteria, please visit: https://apo-opa.co/3UFOaxZ
Footnotes:
[i] For full terms and conditions, please go to this page: https://apo-opa.co/3SxqRUx
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).
Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com
APO Group - PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com
About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon's business within the Africa region - by strengthening Canon's in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon's commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.
Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa's rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.
Canon's corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.co/3SvVhrS) – ‘living and working together for the common good'. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon's products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.
For more information: www.Canon-CNA.com
The Convenience and Versatility of Self Storage Units
In an ever-changing world where space comes at a premium, the need for extra storage has become a common challenge for individuals and businesses alike. Fortunately, the solution lies in the convenient and versatile world of storage units. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of self storage and how it can cater to various …
Stop conflating criticism of Israel with antisemitism
They demanded Germany stop supporting the war on Gaza and resume funding UNRWA
Freeride MTB: Every The Winners From Darkfest 2024
Stellenbosch – The incredible Darkfest 2024 MTB event at The Hellsend Dirt Compound at Vuurberg Farm near Stellenbosch saw high action throughout the week. From huge makes, some brutal slams and tons of good times on and off the bikes, the spirit of freeride is alive and well. The gathered international riders had to endure …
Revolutionising Home Comfort: The Era of Smart Blinds and Smart Light Switches
In the constantly evolving world of smart home technology, two innovations have significantly changed how we interact with our living spaces: smart blinds and smart light switches. These advancements are not just about embracing modernity; they are about enhancing convenience, energy efficiency, and personalising home environments to suit our lifestyles. Let’s delve into how these …
SA’s perspective on global issues found expression in Ubuntu concept
SA’s perspective on global issues found expression in Ubuntu concept
Deputy President Paul Mashatile says South Africa’s unique perspective on global issues has found expression in the concept of Ubuntu, which informs the country’s approach to diplomacy and shapes its vision of a better world for all.
“It was the commonly shared values of Ubuntu that motivated us as a government to mobilise our sharpest legal minds to prepare a solid case to be presented to the International Court of Justice in the hopes of arresting the genocide in Gaza, which the UN Secretary-General has called an unprecedented catastrophe,” Mashatile said.
Mashatile made the remarks at the Eighth Annual Ubuntu Awards 2024 ceremony, held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on Saturday night.
Hosted annually by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), the awards recognise South African industry leaders, including eminent people and ordinary South African citizens for their distinguished service and contribution to promoting South Africa’s national interests and values across the world.
The event takes place after the opening of Parliament and brings together captains of industry, civil society leaders, members of Cabinet and eminent persons, in addition to all Ambassadors and High Commissioners accredited to South Africa.
Delivering his keynote address, Mashatile said President Cyril Ramaphosa's reference to Tintswalo during the sixth administration's final State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday solely serves as an indication of the bare minimum achievements that South Africa has achieved over the last three decades.
“We are cognisant that to some, Tintswalo may appear to be an unattainable ambition for a variety of reasons; but, as government, we want the life of Tintswalo to mirror the life of every person and the possibilities that exist for all South Africans, possibilities that exceed Tintswalo’s wildest dreams.
“To achieve this, we must all come together as government, NGOs [non-government organisations], private sector and communities to build a society that will see everyone with equal opportunities,” Mashatile said.
The Deputy President said the reference to Ubuntu in the interim Constitution created hope of an equal and just society, which does not discriminate against people on the grounds of their culture, race, gender or religious beliefs.
Mashatile reiterated government’s commitment to ensuring that South Africa maintains its position as a prominent nation in diverse sectors in the coming years, thereby effecting positive change both domestically and internationally.
Awards winners
The recipients of Ubuntu Wards included, amongst others, South Africa’s Springbok Captain, Siya Kolisi, who received an award in the category of Ubuntu Sports Diplomacy Award (Male). Multichoice received an award in the category of Ubuntu Economic Diplomacy Award (Africa); MaXhosa Africafounder and owner, Laduma Ngxokolo received the Ubuntu Economic Diplomacy Award (Global).
Ambassador Mohammed Dangor was honoured with the OR Tambo Lifetime Achievement Award, while 30-year-old female farmer from Khayelitsha, Ncumisa Mkabile received Ubuntu Youth Diplomacy Award.
Ngxokolo said he is super honoured to be acknowledged by DIRCO and sponsors through the award.
"We have knocked at the doors of DIRCO many times and they have graciously opened. MaXhosa is a growing organisation, it will grow by strategic networks that we are building with DIRCO and various other stakeholders within government and fraternity.
Ngxokolo noted that MaXhosa brand is in a business of selling Ubuntu, African art, and business of selling culture.
“African culture is still a new industry that we stumbled upon, and we were brave enough position our brand around the world. We were confident believe that culture is important, and we believe that every country has brands and their economic driving force,” he said.
Ngxokolo said that the brand currently has 300 staff members and is looking to recruiting 100. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 02/11/2024 - 13:40
45 views
Exploring the World with Kosher Travel: Unforgettable Journeys for Every Taste
Traveling the world while adhering to Kosher dietary laws has never been easier. With the rise of specialised travel options, you can now enjoy the wonders of travel without compromising on your dietary needs. From the wild beauty of safaris to the structured allure of guided tours, there’s an option for every kind of traveler. …
A Survey at the Rising Popularity of Padel Tennis in SA
Padel tennis, a sport that has been gaining immense popularity worldwide, is now making significant strides in South Africa. This racquet sport, often described as a hybrid of tennis and squash, has captured the interest of sports enthusiasts across the nation. With the emergence of dedicated padel clubs and a growing market for padel rackets, …
Huge Gugulethu housing project dead in the water
Successive failure of construction companies leaves families waiting
Back to School Magic: Perkal Promos Guide to Selecting the Best Branded Kids Gifts
As the academic calendar in South Africa gears up for the new school year, it’s an opportune moment for businesses and organisations to contemplate the impact of promotional gifts for children. Perkal Promo, a front-runner in the promotional gift arena, comprehensively understands the significance of handpicking that ideal gift which adds an extra sprinkle of enchantment …
Understanding the Inner Workings of Search Engines: A Must-Know for Every Business Owner
Pretoria, South Africa – In a digital age where online presence is paramount, understanding the intricate mechanisms of search engines has become more crucial than ever for business owners. Click Results, a leading digital marketing firm based in Pretoria, South Africa, unveils valuable insights into the functionality of search engines and the importance of Search …
Silicon Savannah: A solution to bottlenecked universities and shattered dreams
Johannesburg, 2024 – Despite the recent matric results boasting a 40.9 percent Bachelor’s pass rate, a sense of disappointment, disillusionment, and desperation is sweeping over the class of 2023 as a cruel enigma looms. Inclusion, accessibility, and affordability is bottlenecking the potential of South Africa’s (SA) youth, stifling the aspirations of countless young minds and …
MEC Mireille Wenger invites citizens to comment on proposed amendments to Immigration Regulations
The Department of Home Affairs has released the draft second amendment of the Immigration Regulations, dealing with two key categories of visas - the remote working and critical skills visa, and ancillary matters for public comment.
This comes after extensive lobbying by the Western Cape Government since 2021 for the introduction of a digital nomad visa and reforms to the visa regime to enable South Africa to attract skilled individuals to South Africa, to help develop and grow the economy.
“To boost tourism, facilitate foreign investment, and allow digital nomads to work in South Africa, while spending their earnings here, we need to make it as easy as possible for them to access South Africa,” said Minister Wenger. “At the same time, it is essential that South Africa can attract and welcome skilled individuals that will contribute to growing the complexity of our economy, facilitate new industries and thereby create new South African jobs” she continued.
“The longer it takes to implement necessary changes to the current disastrous visa regime in South Africa, the more opportunities we miss out on to grow the economy and create jobs. While I welcome the progress signalled by the call for comments by the Department of Home Affairs, time is really of the essence, ” said Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger.
“I strongly encourage all those who wish to see our economy grow and thrive, creating hundreds of thousands of new jobs, not just in the Western Cape, but across this incredible country, to review the draft second amendments and submit their comments to the Department of Home Affairs, by the deadline of 29 March 2024,” concluded Minister Wenger.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Government.
The Earthshot Prize Announces Earthshot Week and Awards in Cape Town this November
The Earthshot Prize will travel to Cape Town, South Africa this November for Earthshot Week 2024, featuring The Prize's annual Awards Ceremony. Across five days of landmark events, The Earthshot Prize will celebrate the groundbreaking work of fifteen global environmental solutions and convene leading innovators, Earthshot Alumni, partners, investors and philanthropists for inspiring conversations and action on catalysing solutions to protect and restore our planet.
The Earthshot Prize is an ambitious global environmental prize which aims to discover and help scale the world's most innovative climate and environmental solutions to protect and restore our planet. The Prize is centered around five ‘Earthshots'; simple but aspirational goals to ensure our communities, oceans and ecosystems can thrive together in harmony for generations to come.
This year, The Earthshot Prize will bring its annual celebration to South Africa for the first time, following events in London in 2021, Boston in 2022 and Singapore in 2023. Over the coming months, a rigorous selection process will unearth fifteen Finalists from around the world, of whom five will be awarded a £1 million (R23 800 000,00) prize to scale their solutions, during the ceremony in Cape Town.
Hannah Jones, CEO of The Earthshot Prize said: “This is the Earthshot Decade, a decade in which we must, by 2030, reduce CO2 emissions by over 40 percent, and protect 30 percent of nature, oceans, and freshwater. The nominations to The Earthshot Prize remind us that human ingenuity, grit and determination can turn the seemingly impossible into the new normal. We're delighted to be working with changemakers and partners across Africa to spotlight the incredible innovation emerging across the continent, to convene courageous conversations about scale and finance, and to partner with young creators and filmmakers to tell the story of changemakers across Africa.”
Nearly 400 nominees for this year's Prize are Africa-based, highlighting the trailblazing creativity and innovation across the continent with the potential to inspire optimism and provide pathways to transformative change around the world. One of The Prize's inspiring 2023 finalists was Cape Town's ABALOBI, a non-profit partnership between fishers and scientists aimed at protecting small-scale fishing communities while arming their customers with better information about the origin of their seafood.
Despite contributing the least to global warming and having the lowest emissions, Africa is the most vulnerable continent to the impacts of climate change. In 2022 alone, more than 110 million people across Africa were directly affected by weather, climate, and water-related hazards according to the World Meteorological Organization. Yet in the face of these challenges, nearly all African countries have committed to enhancing climate action through reducing their greenhouse gas emissions and building resilience.
Earthshot Week will begin with The Prize's annual Awards Ceremony, an evening of extraordinary storytelling and star-studded performances, celebrating the work of the fifteen Earthshot Prize finalists. The ceremony will be followed by Earthshot+, a day of thought-provoking conversations aimed at multiplying the impact of The Earthshot Prize Winners and Finalists.
During Earthshot Week, Cape Town will also play host to the annual Earthshot Fellowship Retreat which will kickstart the yearlong Earthshot Prize Fellowship Programme. The programme is a key element of the wrap-around support that each cohort of fifteen Finalists receives in addition to the £1 million prize, providing mentorship, resources and technical support, helping to accelerate the growth of each groundbreaking solution. That support includes access to the Prize's robust network of the world's largest businesses, philanthropists, investors and environmental organizations committed to climate action.
The Prize has recently completed its annual nominations process, culminating in nearly 2500 entries submitted from 432 Official Nominators from around the world, doubling the nominations from any previous year. Nearly 400 of the 2024 nominations are headquartered in Africa, three times more than in any previous set of nominations. The fifteen new finalists chosen this year will be emblematic of a growing global movement of innovators, gamechangers and entrepreneurs creating transformative solutions that, if scaled, could accelerate a green, just transition to a net zero world.
The Prize's first three cohorts of 45 Finalists have already driven incredible impact to repair and regenerate our planet with more than 1.5 million people benefiting directly from their solutions. Over 7,000 hectares of land and almost 2.1 million hectares of ocean have been protected or restored, while over 35,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions have been reduced, avoided or sequestered. The Prize's 2023 Finalists, announced this past autumn, are well on their way to creating similar impact.
The Earthshot Prize is proud to partner with MultiChoice Group to bring Earthshot Week to Africa. As a member of The Earthshot Prize Global Alliance of Partners, the MultiChoice Group is part of a global network of non-profit and international organizations committed to the environment and sustainable development. It is one of the fastest-growing entertainment providers globally, delivering entertainment products and services to more than 22m households across 50 countries on the African continent. In partnership with MultiChoice, The Earthshot Prize will provide a platform to African Youth Creators to spotlight and celebrate African solutions and the people behind them.
Imtiaz Patel, MultiChoice Group Chairman, said: “As the leading entertainment company in Africa, we are immensely proud to be the African Broadcast partner for Earthshot Prize at such a monumental time. This marks the first time the prestigious prize comes to our continent.
MultiChoice is well positioned to not only amplify the urgent message of climate change but also to inspire and galvanize innovators, corporate partners, and governments to prioritize sustainable solutions. This partnership signifies our ongoing commitment to fostering a sustainable future for Africa, and we look forward to playing a pivotal role in advancing the goals of The Earthshot Prize.”
The 2024 Earthshot Prize Finalists will be unveiled in September. More details about The Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony and Earthshot Week in Cape Town will be released in due course.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.
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About The Earthshot Prize:
Founded by Prince William and incubated in the The Royal Foundation in 2020 for a year before becoming an independent platform/organization, The Earthshot Prize is a global environmental prize and platform designed to discover, accelerate and scale ground-breaking solutions to repair and regenerate the planet. Inspired by President John F. Kennedy's Moonshot, which united millions of people around the goal of reaching the moon, The Earthshot Prize aims to catalyse an Earthshot challenge to urgently encourage and scale innovative solutions that can help put the world firmly on a trajectory towards a stable climate, where communities, oceans and biodiversity thrive in harmony by 2030. The five challenges are: Protect and Restore Nature; Clean Our Air; Revive Our Oceans; Build a Waste-Free World; and Fix Our Climate.
The Prize aims to turn the current pessimism surrounding environmental issues into optimism by championing inspiring leadership and helping to scale incredible cutting-edge solutions. It will discover 50 winners over 10 years with the power to repair the planet. More than an award, The Earthshot Prize works in partnership with a Global Alliance of Partners to support the scaling of the solutions discovered and selected each year.
The Global Alliance Founding Partners are a group of leading global organizations and philanthropists, which act as strategic funding partners to the Prize, including Aga Khan Development Network, Bezos Earth Fund, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Breakthrough Energy Foundation, Coleman Family Ventures, DP World in partnership with Dubai EXPO 2020, Eleven Eleven Foundation, Holch Povlsen Foundation, Jack Ma Foundation, Law Family Charitable Foundation, Legado Para A Juventude, Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, Marc and Lynne Benioff, Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, Rob Walton Foundation, Sandy and Paul Edgerley, Standard Chartered Bank, Temasek Trust and Wyc Grousbeck and Emilia Fazzalari.
Global Alliance Partners are non-profit environment and sustainable development organizations that bring expertise, global reach and serve as nominating organizations each year. For full list see website: Global Alliance - Earthshot Prize.
Global Alliance Members are some of the world's largest and most influential companies and brands that will support The Earthshot Prize, implement ambitious changes within their businesses and accelerate the advancement of the solutions of Prize Finalists and Winners.
They are: Arup, Bloomberg L.P., Deloitte, Herbert Smith Freehills, Hitachi, Ingka Group (IKEA), Microsoft, The Multichoice Group, Natura &Co, Safaricom, Salesforce, Unilever, Vodacom Group and Walmart. For more information about The Earthshot Prize, visit: www.EarthShotPrize.org.
About MultiChoice Group:
MultiChoice Group (MCG), which listed in the Main Board of the JSE on 27 February 2019, is one of the fastest-growing video entertainment providers globally, delivering entertainment products and services more than 22m households across 50 countries on the African continent. Its track record of more than 30 years is reflective of a commitment to provide audiences with only the best local, sport and international content.
MCG's strong partnerships with distributors, installers and telecommunication companies, along with its well-established payment solutions, competitive pricing and choice of viewership packages continue to secure its place in the global market, while also providing solutions unique to the African market. Its direct-to-home (DTH), digital terrestrial television.
(DTT) and over-the-top (OTT) solutions enable the business to stay relevant and aligned to changing consumer habits while capturing new markets. Content is at the very core of the business. MCG aims to deliver quality content anywhere, anytime and on any device through a comprehensive video entertainment offering at different price points. As pioneers in African video entertainment, MCG plays an important role in making information and entertainment easily accessible to Africans.
MCG aims to secure content rights in a manner that is cost-effective and reflective of the diversity of its audiences. Its substantial portfolio includes award-winning local content (a key differentiator in its service offering), a leading sport offering (including production capabilities) and access to international content, which is all shared on the group's platforms: DStv, GOtv, Showmax, M-Net and SuperSport.
MCG has superior technology capability through the security solutions that Irdeto, its technology company, brings to the group. These solutions enable MultiChoice to protect its investment, create new offerings and combat cybercrime. With 50 years' expertise in software security, Irdeto's software security solutions and cyber services protect over 5bn devices and applications for some of the world's best brands.