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Entrepreneurial sisters venture into US market

Location: News

Entrepreneurial sisters venture into US market

It was a drive to explore international trade that saw entrepreneurial sisters, Michelle and Mo Mokone, grabbing an opportunity to venture into the United States of America market.

The pair are the co-owners of Mo’s Crib, a company that produces a range of handmade home décor products. 

Their product range includes handwoven baskets, planters, trays, wall art and home outdoor items. It was in 2021 that the pair decided to take advantage of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a United States Trade Act, which was enacted in May 2000.  

AGOA allows 35 qualifying Sub-Saharan countries to export 1 835 tariff lines - duty-free - to a significant consumer market in the US.

Michelle Mokone, who is the Operations and Supply Chain Director of Mo’s Crib, says their products are manufactured from unique materials such as ultra-durable polyvinyl chloride plastic, reclaimed from landfills and construction sites throughout South Africa, and various types of grass. 

All this is underpinned by a particular interest in the protection of the environment.

“Our mission is to leverage the craftsmanship of South African artisans to help accelerate awareness about the most pressing environmental and social issues faced today.

“With every sale, we are creating economic and educational opportunities for South African men and women, while diverting plastic waste from the natural resources of our hometown of Pretoria,” Michelle said.

In addition to safeguarding the natural environment, the Mokone sisters are deeply committed to the development of the people in their community.

“We are striving to create opportunities and make a meaningful impact. We would like to grow our footprint beyond the USA and enter new markets, such as Europe and the United Arab Emirates. We have our own internal plan to create 20 new jobs within the next two to three years,” Michelle said.

She said a forwarding agent assisted them with the compliance and administration process to booking various containers.

“Since 2021, we have shipped a total of eight containers to the USA. We are on track to ship two more containers before year end of 2023.  We also regularly ship a container to fulfil our orders for our online store, which is fulfilled through our warehouse in New Jersey.

“Although shipping is relatively expensive, especially for a small business that is 100% self-funded, we have benefited from the AGOA Act through significant market access.  Currently, the USA orders constitute 60% of our overall revenue,” she said.

South Africa is working to secure a renewal and extension of AGOA, including through direct engagement between government and business representatives, as well as with members of the US Senate and Congress across party-political lines. 

During a recent parliamentary briefing, Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel, told Members of Parliament that South Africa’s participation in AGOA benefits neighbouring countries through shared value chains. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 10:54

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Read moreEntrepreneurial sisters venture into US market

Moove rolls out R284m Investment Conference pledge

Location: News

Moove rolls out R284m Investment Conference pledge

Moove, a mobility financial technology (fintech) company, has rolled out a R284 million investment, which it pledged at the fifth South African Investment Conference hosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa in April 2023.                                                 

As an impact driven fintech, Moove exists to provide financial services to those who are unbanked or underserved by traditional lenders, so they can obtain revenue-based financing and access a path to asset ownership and financial stability.

It does this by embedding its alternative credit scoring technology onto ride-hailing, logistics, mass transit, and instant delivery platforms, using proprietary performance and revenue analytics to underwrite customers that have previously been excluded from financial services.

“The pledged amount of R284 million was invested in the purchase of more than 2 000 vehicles in Cape Town and Johannesburg.

“These vehicles were deployed to mobility entrepreneurs operating in these cities. Further investment of R300 million will soon be allocated to the purchase of 1 400 new vehicles, with further funding and vehicle allocation taking place in 2024,” said the Managing Director of Moove South Africa, Warren Peters.

Peters said the initial investment created over 2 000 jobs across mobility entrepreneurs, Moove employees and the technical resources employed at dealerships in Johannesburg and Cape Town.

“We anticipate future funding to create opportunities for an additional 1 400 mobility entrepreneurs and an estimated 50 additional jobs through our network of partners and service providers,” Peters said.

The investment, Peters said, allows Moove to offer financial inclusion to mobility entrepreneurs. It creates opportunities for deserving South Africans, who are currently excluded from access to certain financial services, and who aspire to become mobility entrepreneurs and asset owners.

Moove operates in various cities across Africa, the Middle East, Europe and India. These include Lagos, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Dubai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Mumbai and London. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 14:44

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SAPVIA launches Solar PV Data Portal for members

Location: MyPR

The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) has launched a new data portal that gives its members access to periodic data about solar installations across the country. The project, in collaboration with GEOTERRAIMAGE (GTI), was launched this week. GTI leveraged years of expertise in satellite image interpretation and analysis to develop advanced machine learning methods …

Read moreSAPVIA launches Solar PV Data Portal for members

Human Settlements launches Title Deeds Friday

Location: News

Human Settlements launches Title Deeds Friday

Human Settlements Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has called on public servants and representatives - together with the relevant institutions - to work around the clock to fast track the processing and issuing of title deeds to the rightful beneficiaries.

Kubayi made the call at the handing over of title deeds at Mabopane Sports Complex in Tshwane on Friday.

The event formed part of the launch of Title Deeds Friday campaign aimed at mobilising beneficiaries of government-subsidised homes -- Breaking New Ground (BNG) -- to collect their title deeds at municipal offices.

Kubayi, who was accompanied by Deputy Minister Pam Tshwete; Tshwane Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Human Settlements, Ofentse Madzabatela, and local councillors handed over title deeds to some community members of Mabopane, Winterveld and Ga-Rankuwa (MAWIGA), north of Tshwane.

The community members of MAWIGA have been advocating to be recognised as the rightful owners of houses located around Ga-Rankuwa, Mabopane, Kudube and Winterveldt.

The Minister declared MAWIGA a Ministerial Project and established a committee with the community to resolve the ownership and transfer for 8 000 uncontested properties held by the City of Tshwane. 

The over 14 000 properties, including contested ones, date back to pre-1994.

During the event, Kubayi provided feedback to the community on the roll-out status. She said a phased approach has been adopted to avoid keeping communities waiting due to red tape and intergovernmental disputes.

Kubayi said government has declared war on the title deeds backlog, particularly as President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised the need to get rid of red tape within the State. 

“We are deliberately launching this campaign here in MAWIGA to re-emphasise our message that as a government, we have heard the cries of this community and others, who are yet to receive their title deeds. Every parent deserves to know that his or her children have a place to call home. 

“These title deeds are legal documents that assure you these properties are yours. Today, you can be at peace that the houses you have lived in and raised your families in over the years are yours and are valuable assets to hand over to future generations,” Kubayi said.

She said the handing over of title deeds is also a testament that “when government partners with community members, nothing is impossible to achieve”.

The MAWIGA Ministerial Project was declared in 2022, with a committee established and tasked with the responsibility of facilitating the transfer of uncontested properties to the rightful owners. 

Kubayi said government is using MAWIGA to showcase the importance of working together with the community to resolve their challenges.

Speaking on behalf of the community, Moota Mfulwane, said they are happy that finally, working together with government, they made some breakthroughs. 

“Although some of those who were also waiting for this day have since unfortunately passed on, we are hoping as a community that the targeted handover of 14 000 title deeds will be realised,” Mfulwane said.

Meanwhile, the Ministry has undertaken to convene an urgent meeting with municipalities to unlock existing bottlenecks. 

Kubayi said interventions are required, working with all three spheres of government, including the urgent establishment of townships to pave the way for the registration of title deeds. 

The Minster made a call to all councillors to champion the Title Deeds Friday campaign by working with municipal officials to issue all title deeds on hand. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 11:13

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Read moreHuman Settlements launches Title Deeds Friday

Parliament should Strengthen Oversight to Ensure Acceleration of Socio-Economic Development

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Chief Whip of the National Council of Provinces, (NCOP), Mr Seiso Mohai, has called on Parliament to strengthen its oversight over the Executive to ensure that best practices and governance models from other countries translate into the acceleration of socio-economic development in South Africa.

Mr Mohai participated as a South African delegate in the 66th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference held in Accra, in Ghana from 30 September to 6 October 2023. He emphasised the importance of Parliament in ensuring that trade agreements that are brought to Parliament by the Executive should indicate how they address national interests.

Mr Mohai participated in the workshop under the theme: “What does sustainable trade and economic development mean for small jurisdictions?”. He said the conference deliberated extensively on the issue of unbalanced trade relations in the African continent particularly in countries that are in the North of Africa and the bigger economies such as the United States.

The deliberations sought to encourage countries in the Africa region so they can address the economic imbalances in the region. He said addressing these challenges is crucial particularly as Africa focuses on Agenda 2063, which focuses on Africa continental free trade which requires the continent to be more coherent and emerge with a common approach in order to deal with common challenges that face it.

Mr Mohai said these deliberations call for South Africa to develop industrial policies that address inequality, promote inclusive economic activity to allow for greater economic opportunities and exploration and provision of new industries through progressive funding models.

The challenge of inequality and unemployment still prevails in the Africa region. It necessitates the industrialisation of the economy to manage trade relations amongst the South-to-South countries. Mr Mohai believes that it is only through the expansion of industrialisation that job opportunities would be created where the majority of people would benefit in the developing countries. This means Africa needs to open its borders to ensure that free continental trade becomes a success.

Mr Mohai added that Parliament will need to have an efficient monitoring and evaluation model that ensures that resolutions taken at these multi-lateral forums are implemented. As an activist Parliament, it is important that the South African Parliament finds resonance with the concerns and frustrations of the people. Economic issues are dominant in the minds of the people and discussions on trade and trade agreements and the laws that govern them should be a priority for the country.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

Read moreParliament should Strengthen Oversight to Ensure Acceleration of Socio-Economic Development

NMB GELVANDALE 10km Road Race and 5km family run/walk, SATURDAY, 14 OCTOBER 2023

Location: MyPR

The Gelvandale 10km road race will be held at the Gelvandale Athletics track, Liebenberg Road, Gelvandale on Saturday, 14 October. The 10km road race starts at 06.00 and 5km family walk/run at 06.15. The well-established Gelvandale Run, which was formerly over a 15km distance, is sponsored by the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality as part of …

Read moreNMB GELVANDALE 10km Road Race and 5km family run/walk, SATURDAY, 14 OCTOBER 2023

Henkel South Africa to Partner with Hudson Rubber to Produce Vehicle Sealing and Acoustic Solutions

Location: MyPR

Henkel South Africa is partnering with Hammanskraal-based Hudson Rubber to locally fabricate Henkel’s vehicle rubber sealing and acoustic solutions for OEM vehicle panel reinforcing, noise reduced and vibration protection. Henkel’s patented technology of 2D and 3D sealing and acoustic solutions along with damping materials for the body shop provides robust noise, vibration, harshness protection – …

Read moreHenkel South Africa to Partner with Hudson Rubber to Produce Vehicle Sealing and Acoustic Solutions

AfricaIgnite Hosts the African Leg of the Start-up World Cup at Africa Tech Festival

Location: News
Africa Tech Festival

Wait for it…AfricaIgnite, formerly AHUB, Africa Tech Festival's (https://tmt.knect365.com/Africa-Tech-Festival/) flagship event for the African continent's start-ups and innovators, has been announced as the host for the African leg of the globally prestigious Start-Up World Cup 2023, and 10 African start-ups will have the opportunity to pitch for a spot at the grand finale to be held in San Francisco, USA on 1 December 2023.

USD1 million up for grabs – The AfricaIgnite Start-up Pitch showcase will take place at Africa Tech Festival in November in Cape Town, South Africa.  To enter, African early-stage start-ups and scale-ups with seed fundings of up to $15million will need to apply (https://apo-opa.info/3PGV3Lz) by 15 October.  The finalists, to be unveiled on 30 October, will then need to make their way to Cape Town and pitch in front of hundreds of investors and tech leaders on 16 November.

The winner of Africa Tech Festival's pitch competition will then be invited to compete in the grand finale of the Startup World Cup, to be held in San Francisco on 1 December, for that impressive 1 million US dollar investment, in front of industry greats such as ABC's Shark Tank Barbara Corcoran, Sundeep Jain, Chief Product Officer at Uber, Daniel Sturman CTO at Roblox and more.

Since launching in 2016, the festival's start-up platform has been committed to supporting the growth of Africa's nascent entrepreneurs and innovators.  The interest in the offering has grown significantly to the point where AfricaIgnite has now taken on a life-force of its own. 

James Williams, Director, Events | Connecting Africa | Informa Tech: “Africa's bright and forward-thinking minds need a platform to network, get inspired, and co-build a stronger tech start-Up investment ecosystem, which is exactly what AfricaIgnite offers. As Africa Tech Festival, we are excited to be partnering with The Startup World Cup to offer our African colleagues the opportunity they deserve to present their businesses on a global stage. This is a very exciting partnership, and the first, we hope, of many as the continent's innovation sector gathers momentum.”

Investment by the numbers

In 2022, Africa was the only region where start-up investment grew with around USD4.8 billion put into around 1,000 businesses.  That said though, this sum still only represents a paltry 1.2% of all start-up funding raised globally.  However, this is predicted to change quite rapidly in the years ahead as the continent's entrepreneur, start-up and SMME ecosystem fully embraces the digital revolution and connectivity, whilst Africans create the solutions to many of their own, and the world's challenges.

In the 2021 – 2022 period, 37% of investment was channelled to the FinTech space, but its dominance is now being challenged by innovation and new business ideas that solve Africa's energy and waste difficulties.  Other sectors that are attracting interest also include the likes of the telecoms, media and entertainment space, logistics and transport, retail, agriculture, and food, as well as the growing proliferation of deep tech.

“We are very happy to partner up with AfricaTech Festival for the Startup World Cup South Africa Regional and are delighted by the quality and enthusiasm of the start-ups who are competing,” said Anis Uzzaman, Founder and CEO of Pegasus Tech Ventures, who created the Startup World Cup competition in 2016. “Each year we have been able to reach more entrepreneurs in more cities around the world and, in turn, connect more innovation ecosystems to Silicon Valley and the rest of the world.

“We hope this partnership creates new valuable opportunities for the competing start-ups from Africa.”

In good company

Africa Tech Festival also holds its own when it comes to the investor community, with databases of several thousand investors and venture capitalists predominantly spanning Africa and the United States, as well as a strong community of founders, entrepreneurs, and start-ups. 

Aside from the exciting early-stage start-up Pitch Showcase, AfricaIgnite in 2023 is looking to up the ante with a curation of content that is exciting, informative, and definitely going to take participants places.  The AfricaIgnite space located in the AfricaTech Hall will be a centre of activity with an offering of excellent networking and matchmaking between founders and investors, a start-up marketplace and demo area (no pitching required), along with a host of dedicated workshops and masterclasses presented by top professionals.

Delegates, start-ups, and those considering taking a leap of faith into the new world of business, can explore content that covers useful topics such as what to expect from year one as a founder – what to do, get good at and what to ignore; the power of collaboration in building a global company; perfecting the next “X”-tech for future generations; founding, funding and running your start-up in economically challenging times; concept to company – demystifying the entrepreneurial process plus a raft of funding talks and presentations, as well as the all-important insight into exit planning 101!

Never has the time been more right to head to Cape Town 13 – 16 November to be part of the action at Africa Tech Festival, the world's largest and most influential Africa-focused technology, telecoms, and media gathering.  In 2023, expect big things to happen in this space. 

For more information, please see website here: Africa Tech Festival 2023 - The Home of AfricaCom & AfricaTech (https://apo-opa.info/3myppVu)

To apply for the pitch competition, please click here: Africa Tech Festival 2023 – pitch competition (https://apo-opa.info/3PGV3Lz)

View all ticket options for Africa Tech Festival, including start-up passes, here (https://apo-opa.info/3Q04o2r)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Tech Festival.

For media enquiries, interviews and/or images please contact: 
Kaz Henderson 
kaz@networxpr.co.za or call on +27 (0) 82 339 1199. 

(Please note that all requests are adjudicated and there may be some delay before you hear back from us).

Social Media Handles:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.info/3LIdCxG
Twitter: https://apo-opa.info/3EZ7RYB
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.info/3EcywR6

About Startup World Cup:
Startup World Cup is a global conference and competition with the goal of bridging start-up ecosystems worldwide. The competition gives start-up companies from all over the world a chance to win a US $1,000,000 prize in the form of an investment. This year, there will be 50+ regional events across North America, South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia, leading up to the Grand Finale in San Francisco in September. Startup World Cup is organized by Pegasus Tech Ventures, a Silicon Valley-based global venture capital firm.

About Africa Tech Festival 2023:
Africa Tech Festival, including anchor events AfricaCom, AfricaTech and AfricaIgnite is part of the Informa Tech Connecting Africa event series.  A vibrant celebration of Africa's diverse community of tech champions, Africa Tech Festival is the largest tech and digital connectivity conference and exhibition in Africa, attracting hundreds of exhibitors, more than 400 speakers and more than 12000 delegates.

Key themes for 2023 continue to explore the creation and sustainability of a connected Africa and the impact this can have for the people of the continent but also the commercial prospects for local and global businesses and governments.  Topics will include Telcos of Tomorrow, Connecting the Next Billion, Digital Infrastructure Investment, Sustainability & Climate Resilience, ICT Policy and Regulation, Fintech & MFS, Broadcast Media & Entertainment, Pioneer Tech, the Future of Work and Talent and Skills Development. Africa Tech Festival also incorporates and the Africa Tech Festival Awards, an exclusive ceremony celebrating Africa's tech pioneers and held at the luxury 5-star The Bay Hotel, as well as the LeadersIn Africa Summit, an exclusive, VIP-only feature offering high-level presentations and roundtable discussions to Africa's tech elite.

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Africa Tech Festival
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SA calls for terminate to violence between Israel, Palestine

Location: News

SA calls for end to violence between Israel, Palestine

South Africa has called for the immediate cessation of violence, restraint, and peace between Israel and Palestine. 

According to a Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) statement, South Africa is gravely concerned over the recent devastating escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. 

“The new conflagration has arisen from the continued illegal occupation of Palestine land, continued settlement expansion, desecration of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Christian holy sites, and ongoing oppression of the Palestinian people,” the department said on Saturday.

The region, according to DIRCO, is in desperate need of a credible peace process that delivers on the calls of a “plethora” of previous United Nations (UN) resolutions for a two-state solution and a just and comprehensive peace between Israel and Palestine.

“South Africa, working together with the international community, seeks to ensure a lasting and durable peace that produces a viable, contiguous Palestinian State, existing side-by-side in peace with Israel, within the 1967 internationally recognised borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.” 

The department believes that the UN resolutions and international law matter. 

“The international community cannot avoid its duty to act, and together, we must shoulder the responsibility to remove obstacles to peace and any violations of international law.”

The department said violence, killings, imprisonment, forced removals, illegal settlements, and the continued siege of Gaza are not conducive to resolving the conflict. 

“Urgent attention must be given to resolving the final status issues such as borders, the status of Jerusalem, the release of political prisoners, and the right of return.

“No real and lasting peace in Israel, Palestine, and the region is possible in the absence of a just and comprehensive resolution of the conflict. Israelis, Palestinians, and the region do not stand to gain anything from escalated tensions, increased violence, growing instability, and a continued and protracted violent conflict.”

The department has since called on all sides to seize the opportunity for peace as opposed to violence, and for the international community to actively rise on the side of its international resolutions and establish a credible peace process. 

“South Africa stands ready to share its experience in mediation and conflict resolution as it has done on the continent and around the world.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 10/08/2023 - 12:47

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Read moreSA calls for terminate to violence between Israel, Palestine

Kzn Mec Celebrates With Futurelife® At Factory Opening

Location: MyPR

Leading food company, wholly-owned by PepsiCo South Africa, FUTURELIFE®, today celebrated the grand opening of its new cutting-edge manufacturing facility at Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone (SEZ), in Kwa-Zulu Natal. This event brought together key government officials, business leaders, and FUTURELIFE® employees. The opening of the facility showcases FUTURELIFE®’s resilience, innovation, and steadfast commitment to …

Read moreKzn Mec Celebrates With Futurelife® At Factory Opening

FUTURELIFE® Celebrates Opening of Second Concept Store in Cape Town

Location: MyPR

CAPE TOWN – FUTURELIFE®, a leading health and wellness brand, is excited to announce the grand opening of its second concept store, set to make waves in Canal Walk, Cape Town. Building upon the resounding success of its inaugural store in Umhlanga’s Oceans Mall, this new establishment redefines health and wellness retail while offering a …

Read moreFUTURELIFE® Celebrates Opening of Second Concept Store in Cape Town

Why Cruise Holidays Offer The Ultimate In Affordable Luxury Getaways

Location: MyPR

Imagine a world where the boundaries of luxury expand far beyond what you thought possible. Picture yourself in a floating hotel, a majestic vessel that takes you to exotic destinations, offering unparalleled indulgence and convenience. For many, a cruise has long occupied a coveted spot on their bucket lists, often seen as an experience reserved …

Read moreWhy Cruise Holidays Offer The Ultimate In Affordable Luxury Getaways

Specialised audit skills needed for climate transition

Location: MyPR

Specialised audit skills needed for climate transition Experienced accountants and auditors will be central to new sustainable business strategies as organisations look to meet net-zero targets With governments around the world looking to restructure their economies in response to a looming climate crisis, it is no longer enough for businesses to just donate to environmental …

Read moreSpecialised audit skills needed for climate transition

RTMC celebrates two years of excellent driving licence renewal service

Location: News

RTMC celebrates two years of excellent driving licence renewal service

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) is celebrating two years since it officially opened its doors to its driving licensing centres in Midrand and Eco Park.

“The RTMC takes pride in the strides it has made in an effort to provide a world class service to the citizens of South Africa living in Gauteng. A total of 127 952 have visited the centres and left with broad smiles on their faces,” the RTMC said on Thursday.

Both licensing centres currently use the Smart Enrolment System to capture applicant details.

“The use of this advanced technology eliminates the need to print ID photos for renewal purposes. This does not only enhance efficiency but also improves the overall experience for clients by reducing the time spent at RTMC centres.

“Eliminating the need for printed ID photos aligns with modern practices of reducing carbon emissions in line with the country’s sustainability goals,” the RTMC said.

The Corporation continued to urge all motorists who have applied for new driving licence cards to present themselves for collection as leaving cards uncollected for long periods could lead to those cards being destroyed.

Applicants are encouraged to take advantage of the extended hours and to transact at RTMC centres  seven days a week from 7am – 9pm. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 09:23

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Futurelife invests R75m in Dube Trade Port SEZ facility

Location: News

Futurelife invests R75m in Dube Trade Port SEZ facility

KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, says the investment in a new Futurelife manufacturing facility at the Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has created hope for a better future for the province.

Duma made the remarks during the launch of a R75 million investment by South African health foods manufacturer, Futurelife, which took occupation in a new manufacturing facility in Dube TradePort, located near the King Shaka International Airport. 

The modern factory is set to streamline Futurelife's production processes, enhancing the organisation's efficiency through the purchase of advanced machinery and equipment that will enable the factory to operate at international standards.  
 
Cutting the ribbon to officially mark the factory opening for business, Duma emphasised the important role that the factory will play in sustainable economic development in KwaZulu-Natal.

Duma said locating the business within the Dube Trade Port SEZ will ensure efficiencies in the operations while reducing the logistics costs.
 
Ahead of the COVID-19 lockdown, about 315 000 people were employed in manufacturing, representing just of 12% of total formal and informal employment. 

He said the plant is an integral part of the provincial industrial strategy which aims to stimulate the manufacturing industry in order to increase employment.

“This launch is a result of your ability to work together to master new state-of-the-art technologies and to do this all on schedule. If we are to realise the province’s full potential and discharge our shared commitment to create a better life for all South Africans, then increased investment in the province is of critical importance. 

“The fact that Futurelife already sources 87% of its raw materials locally, gives local producers an advantage of future upstream integration as Futurelife continues to pursue growth into regional and international markets," Duma said
 
Futurelife, which previously had its operations in Pinetown for 14 years, was fully acquired by food and beverage company, PepsiCo South Africa in 2023. 
 
Former Futurelife Managing Director and now PepsiCo South Africa’s Commercial Vice President Mark Bunn said the exceptional facility is a testament to the company’s commitment to transforming and improving South Africans' health and well-being. 

“The new factory embodies our dedication to contributing positively to the local community and ultimately the broader economy. The company has its origins in KwaZulu-Natal and has experienced significant growth and success within this region and, over time, in South Africa at large. 

“We are, therefore, unwavering in our commitment to giving back to the very community and economy that has played a pivotal role in our journey. Our dedication extends beyond business as usual; it's a pledge to support and enrich the local community and economy through our endeavours, ensuring a lasting positive impact for years to come,” Bunn said.
 
Bunn said the company currently has a staff complement of 186 and anticipates creating an additional 24 direct jobs in the next five years of its operations within the new facility.

He added that the company anticipates growing 30% of its business into export markets in Asia, Middle East, Europe, North America and the rest of the African continent.  
  
Dube Trade Port SEZ CEO, Hamish Erskine said the investment is significant for FutureLife, and serves as a notable endorsement for the SEZ, as an investment destination in South Africa. 

“As the Special Economic Zone operator, we welcome this investment and look forward to working with and supporting FutureLife in their development journey, as we also continue to build a highly secure and functional industrial precinct,” Erskine said.
 
Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone is home to 46 operational business enterprises, which have collectively created 10 803 jobs, as at March 2023. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 14:20

390 views
Read moreFuturelife invests R75m in Dube Trade Port SEZ facility

Futurelife invests R75m to Dube TradePort SEZ facility

Location: News

Futurelife invests R75m to Dube TradePort SEZ facility

KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, says the investment in a new Futurelife manufacturing facility at the Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has created hope for a better future for the province.

Duma made the remarks during the launch of a R75 million investment by South African health foods manufacturer, Futurelife, which took occupation in a new manufacturing facility in Dube TradePort, located near the King Shaka International Airport. 

The modern factory is set to streamline Futurelife's production processes, enhancing the organisation's efficiency through the purchase of advanced machinery and equipment that will enable the factory to operate at international standards.  
 
Cutting the ribbon to officially mark the factory opening for business, Duma emphasised the important role that the factory will play in sustainable economic development in KwaZulu-Natal.

Duma said locating the business within the Dube Trade Port SEZ will ensure efficiencies in the operations while reducing the logistics costs.
 
Ahead of the COVID-19 lockdown, about 315 000 people were employed in manufacturing, representing just of 12% of total formal and informal employment. 

He said the plant is an integral part of the provincial industrial strategy which aims to stimulate the manufacturing industry in order to increase employment.

“This launch is a result of your ability to work together to master new state-of-the-art technologies and to do this all on schedule. If we are to realise the province’s full potential and discharge our shared commitment to create a better life for all South Africans, then increased investment in the province is of critical importance. 

“The fact that Futurelife already sources 87% of its raw materials locally, gives local producers an advantage of future upstream integration as Futurelife continues to pursue growth into regional and international markets," Duma said
 
Futurelife, which previously had its operations in Pinetown for 14 years, was fully acquired by food and beverage company, PepsiCo South Africa in 2023. 
 
Former Futurelife Managing Director and now PepsiCo South Africa’s Commercial Vice President Mark Bunn said the exceptional facility is a testament to the company’s commitment to transforming and improving South Africans' health and well-being. 

“The new factory embodies our dedication to contributing positively to the local community and ultimately the broader economy. The company has its origins in KwaZulu-Natal and has experienced significant growth and success within this region and, over time, in South Africa at large. 

“We are, therefore, unwavering in our commitment to giving back to the very community and economy that has played a pivotal role in our journey. Our dedication extends beyond business as usual; it's a pledge to support and enrich the local community and economy through our endeavours, ensuring a lasting positive impact for years to come,” Bunn said.
 
Bunn said the company currently has a staff complement of 186 and anticipates creating an additional 24 direct jobs in the next five years of its operations within the new facility.

He added that the company anticipates growing 30% of its business into export markets in Asia, Middle East, Europe, North America and the rest of the African continent.  
  
Dube Trade Port SEZ CEO, Hamish Erskine said the investment is significant for FutureLife, and serves as a notable endorsement for the SEZ, as an investment destination in South Africa. 

“As the Special Economic Zone operator, we welcome this investment and look forward to working with and supporting FutureLife in their development journey, as we also continue to build a highly secure and functional industrial precinct,” Erskine said.
 
Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone is home to 46 operational business enterprises, which have collectively created 10 803 jobs, as at March 2023. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 14:20

96 views
Read moreFuturelife invests R75m to Dube TradePort SEZ facility

President Ramaphosa launches Border Management Authority

Location: News

President Ramaphosa launches Border Management Authority

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the newly launched Border Management Authority (BMA) will provide a sustainable solution to the structural challenges of border security, control and coordination. 

The President emphasised that a more secure border is important for curbing illegal migration, human smuggling and trafficking, and that the BMA will help in combating cross-border crime. 

President Ramaphosa was delivering remarks at the launch of the Border Management Authority (BMA) at Musina Show Grounds in Limpopo on Thursday. 

He said that this will be a new model of integration of functions, roles and responsibilities in the broader law enforcement environment.

“The Border Management Authority is expected to tackle the challenges of congestion, procedural delays, long transit times, lack of predictability and high logistics costs. I commend the Border Management Authority for the speed with which it has already commenced its work.

“When our country’s ports of entry and borders are well-protected and well-managed, we are able to prevent the illegal importation and exit of goods. We see the Border Management Authority as a vital link in our efforts to harness the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area,” he said. 

The President said the Border Management Authority was established in response to a number of serious challenges. One of these challenges is the increase in the number of undocumented foreign nationals entering the country, which has exacerbated many of the country’s social and economic problems.

“The movement of persons and goods at ports of entry has often not been as efficient as it should be, resulting in unnecessary delays and increased costs for individuals and companies. This in turn is harming our economy.

"Deficiencies in border management have also enabled corruption and organised and cross-border crime to thrive. We have faced a problem of fragmentation of powers, responsibility and accountability,” the President said. 

The Border Management Authority is now the third armed service in South Africa after the South African National Defence Force and the South African Police Service.

It is mandated to perform border management functions within ports of entry as well as the law enforcement area. The Border Management Authority is being established through an incremental approach.

Steps have already been taken to integrate under the Border Management Authority various relevant functions of the departments of Home Affairs, Agriculture, Health, and Fisheries, Forestry and the Environment.

To enable its work, the President said the Border Management Authority has signed implementation protocols with the South African Revenue Service, Police Service and Defence Force.

“While the border guard will be conducting border law enforcement functions, including access control, the South African National Defence Force remains responsible for border protection and safeguarding.

“The border guard will interface with the nearest police station with regards to the occurrence of a crime at a port of entry,” the President said. 

BMA important tool to develop the region

The President took a tour to the Beit Bridge Border Post with his counterpart from Zimbabwe, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, and they agreed that the establishment of the Border Management Authority will be an important tool for the development of the region. 

“It will form part of integrating border management activities in the SADC region as we implement the African Continental Free Trade Area. We will be able to work towards eradicating various forms of red tape that are hindering trade, investment and the movement of persons,” he said. 

The President said that Border Management Authority will be redeveloping six ports of entries as one-stop-border-posts. 

This approach will improve efficiency at land border crossings by combining the stops required for processing exit and entry formalities.

In July, the country saw the deployment of the first officers of the border guard of the Border Management Authority at vulnerable segments of the border line, including the informal community crossing points. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 10:20

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Eskom Expo honours young scientists with bursaries, cash prizes, and tech rewards

Location: MyPR

At this year’s Eskom Expo International Science Fair, young scientists have reaped the benefits of their hard work and ingenuity, receiving full- and partial bursaries, cash prizes, laptops, tablet computers, and opportunities for work-based exposure during their school holidays. The fair was held at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Boksburg from …

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KZN speeds up pothole repairs

Location: News

KZN speeds up pothole repairs

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has unveiled 55 new trucks, which will be used to improve the turnaround time in addressing pothole patching in the province.

The procurement of the trucks, which were unveiled at the launch of the 2023 October Transport Month campaign, is part of the commitment made by the Premier in her State of the Province Address, where she committed government to improving the provincial road network conditions.

The trucks -- fitted with the latest pothole patching technology -- will be distributed to all Department of Transport District Offices, in a “fast and effective operation”.

The trucks will comprise a team of nine people, who will be responsible for routine and safety maintenance, including pothole patching, blacktop patching, drain cleaning and verge maintenance, among other duties.

Unveiling the trucks, Dube-Ncube emphasised that the transport sector is the heartbeat of the province’s economy, and crucial in the stimulation of socio-economic development of the nation.

She said during October Transport Month, the province will advance road safety initiatives and highlight several economic empowerment initiatives.

“Under the Department of Transport, over the coming months, the province will ensure that employment intensive road maintenance programmes are increased to provide employment opportunities for more women and the vulnerable in our province. The Zibambele Maintenance Programme will create 41 000 job opportunities,” Dube-Ncube said.

This year’s October Transport Month Campaign is being rolled out under the theme: ‘Siyakha – We are building better infrastructure to grow South Africa together!’.

During this month, the Department of Transport and its entities will showcase transport infrastructure services in aviation, maritime, public transport and roads. 

This month will also be used to further advance the country’s road safety initiatives, while creating awareness of the economic benefits of the sector. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 10:31

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