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SANRAL announces temporary closure of Alan Paton Avenue carriageway

Location: News

SANRAL announces temporary closure of Alan Paton Avenue carriageway

The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has announced the full closure of Alan Paton Avenue Southbound Carriageway between Blackburrow Road and the N3 in Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal.

The closure is due to the construction of the Epworth underpass.

The Alan Paton Avenue Southbound Carriageway (onramp from Alan Paton Avenue to the N3 towards Durban) will be fully closed to traffic to facilitate roadworks as part of the N3 upgrade project between Gladys Manzi (Murray) Road and the New England Road Interchange.

The closure will take place from 27 October 2024 to 27 November 2025, a period of approximately 11 months.

The Alan Paton Avenue Northbound carriageway (offramp from the N3 to Alan Paton Avenue/ Scottsville/Pietermaritzburg CBD) will remain open to traffic during this period.

“Our traffic accommodation team, with the assistance of the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), will monitor the closure,” SANRAL’s Eastern Region Project Manager Jason Lowe said on Thursday.

Alternatives for access to the N3 Southbound carriageway (towards Durban) are via the New England Road and Market Road interchanges.

A temporary access ramp will be provided for local traffic to access the N3 Southbound carriageway.

It is also expected that the new link between Cleland Road and the Market Interchange will be in place within six months from the Alan Paton Road ramp closure.

“Increased traffic volumes can be expected at the New England Road and Market Road interchanges, as well as the roads leading to them. These will lead to increased travel times, especially during the morning and afternoon peak hours.

“Motorists are urged to plan and adjust their routes ahead of time to minimise delays and remain patient during the closure. SANRAL apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates the public’s patience during the ongoing major road enhancements,” said Lowe.

The planned closure will allow:
•    The demolition of the existing N3 Epworth Underpass.
•    The construction of the new N3 Epworth Underpass in a new location.
•    The construction of the new Blackburrow Spruit Culvert.
•    The construction of adjacent N3 and Alan Paton Avenue roadworks. - SAnews.gov.za

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Fri, 10/18/2024 - 11:27

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Healthcare Indaba 2024: Advancing Global Health Through Innovation and Digital Solutions

Location: News

Africa Health
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Delegates will gather in the Mother City in South Africa this month, when the second annual Healthcare Indaba takes place at Cape Town's CTICC. The two-day event forms part of the 2024 edition of Africa Health Congress (www.AfricaHealthExhibition.com), the premier healthcare gathering on the African continent.

Building on the success of its inaugural edition last year, the Healthcare Indaba 2024 expands to a two-day format. It dives into the realms of Global Health on day one and exploring AI & Digital Health on day two of the Congress (running from 22 to 24 October 2024).

Another new element to the Congress and the Indaba deliberations, is the dedicated forum within the Africa Health Congress 2024 entitled, “EmpowHER: Women in Healthcare”.

“Our goal is to create a lasting brand that celebrates female leadership and fosters a supportive community.  Our audience is eager to gain insights into the realities of leadership in healthcare and understand the journey it takes to reach the top. The mandate for our speakers will be candidness and honesty,  they will share their personal experiences, challenges, and successes in the hopes of inspiring the audience. Their stories and insights will help ensure the long-term sustainability of our industry through supporting women and celebrating their successes,” says Cynthia Makarutse, spokesperson for the organisers of Africa Health.

“Much like the Mining and Tourism Indabas which inspired it, the Healthcare Indaba has emerged as a crucial platform for shaping the future of our industry on the continent. This year's focus aligns with our commitment to position Africa at the forefront of medical innovation with worldwide impact,” says Makarutse.

The Indaba will feature discussions led by some of the most influential voices in African healthcare and technology.

“Global Health” – Africa claiming its right place on global stage.

Head of the Global Surgery Division at the University of Cape Town, Professor Salome Maswime, will chair the Global Health deliberations of the Indaba on day one. She explains that she is excited about hosting a dynamic programme that brings leaders together from all over the world and from all sectors.

“We hope to have thought provoking sessions about the role of Africa on the Global Health Stage. This will be a first for Africa Health, with the Vice President of the United Nations Foundation delivering the keynote on Global Health strategies for a resilient future,” she adds.

“I think most importantly it gives us an opportunity to discuss and find consensus on the strategies for Global Health and to align on international programmes, and to collaborate on new and strategic programmes. Many of us are involved on international Global Health platforms, yet the global health agenda is still mainly driven and owned by high income countries. We have an opportunity to re-imagine the future of Global Health for Africa.

“It is time for Africa to get involved on all matters related to Global Health. We cannot afford to be left behind. We have an obligation to provide universal health coverage and to improve healthcare in Africa,” says Maswime.

“AI & Digital Health” – building sustainable solutions.

The second day of Indaba 2024 (on Wednesday 23 October) shines the spotlight on AI & Digital Health.

“The significance of this event lies in its ability to convene leading industry experts, innovators and key stakeholders from across the continent to address pressing healthcare challenges and explore transformative solutions,” says Dr Mories Atoki, CEO of ABCHealth and a speaker on the day.

“The ABCHealth side forum on Digital Health will serve as a platform to discuss how AI and digital health can revolutionize healthcare delivery, making it more accessible and efficient. It is a critical moment for both the private and public sectors to explore more and collaborate on building sustainable systems that address Africa's unique healthcare needs through AI.”

For the people of Africa, Dr Atoki believes this congress provides hope.

“The conversations and outcomes from these sessions will not only influence policy but also drive tangible improvements in healthcare services, enhancing quality of life and reducing healthcare inequalities across the continent.

“For the medical sector, it presents a unique opportunity to explore new opportunities,  strengthen partnerships, share groundbreaking innovations, and leverage digital health means to drive healthcare accessibility and efficiency. This signifies progress toward better healthcare outcomes through improved access, affordability, and quality of care. By highlighting the potential of AI and digital health, we can pave the way for more inclusive, patient-centric care which can also bridge gaps in underserved areas,” she says.

“Africa's healthcare future relies largely on embracing digital interventions.  AI and digital health are not just trends—they are an essential part of a globally advancing economy that can help solve some of the continent's most pressing healthcare challenges, from limited access, specialized care to overburdened systems.

“Achieving this on a large scale requires robust ecosystems, supported by both regulatory frameworks and financial investments. Policy reforms and investments are essential to creating a thriving digital health ecosystem. It will also require multi-sector partnerships that prioritize patient safety, data protection, and equitable access and inclusivity,” says Dr Atoki.

“AI & Digital Health: The need to first address health data accessibility.”

“We cannot hope to effectively use the rapidly increasing AI  set of commodities that are becoming available globally in Africa, before we first address health data accessibility and governance locally” says Dr Chris Fourie, a medical doctor, machine learning operations (MLOps) engineer, researcher and online grassroots community organiser.

As another speaker on day two, he says: “My presentation is related to the foundation that we need (i.e. health data accessibility) in order to do any kind of quantitative analysis, data science, machine learning, or AI for health in Africa. When considering the potential impact and significance of these in Africa, a good place to start is with understanding the burden of disease in Africa.”

“Regularly published Global Burden of Disease data shows us that infectious disease and maternal child health are consistently top of the list for Africa. These should be considered when deciding where data science and AI interventions could target. As an example, Africa would stand to benefit a great amount from interventions that can drop the cost and increase the efficacy of primary health interventions,” says Fourie.

“While the scope for what AI can do is really broad, for Africa the capacity to help collect and utilise data for primary and pre-primary care could generate immense impact.”

Fourie says this could be realised as:

  • Broader and interactive patient health education (especially if in one's their own language) making existing health information more accessible.
  • Better health service accessibility e.g.
    • Encrypted / safe remote conversational / natural language health data collection.
    • Cost-effective, early and automated diagnosis and triage using multimodal data from existing patient records and new data from e.g. mobile personal devices.
  • Rapid and higher quality patient data linkage / aggregation and government action related to this data - e.g. the growth of national health data centres in the global south – this is very useful for toward data driven public health policy development.
  • Lower cost and quicker drug development e.g. to address rising resistance.
  • Personalised healthcare and clinical decision support tools, with data driven patient follow up, treatment tracking and dynamic treatment adjustment.

“I would like to see the initiation and ongoing development of multidisciplinary, multi-stakeholder, participatory collectives to help provide effective channels of communication and cooperation between patients, healthcare service providers, researcher, funders and policy makers toward a future culture of open science and sustainable health equity.”

EmpowHER: Women in Healthcare: The power of she – A new class of women leaders.

Day three of the Africa Health Congress will see a long list of leading female voices in the healthcare space sharing their stories at a dedicated forum that celebrates female leadership and fosters a supportive community.

“Everything we are doing at Congress this year is about tackling the challenges wherever they may be located in the healthcare space and finding solutions. This is the same motivation also for EmpowHER as we invite trailblazing women from across Africa's healthcare scene to unite!

“This summit will ignite community, growth, and empowerment for established and emerging leaders. Through dynamic panels and keynotes, shatter personal and professional boundaries and emerge ready to champion change for women in leadership” says Cynthia Makarutse, spokesperson for the organisers of Africa Health.

Speakers on the day include the Chief Scientific Officer at the SA Medical Research Council Professor Glenda Gray, Microsoft's Kenya Country General Manager Phyllis Migwi, the World Bank's Lead: AI for Human Development Marelize Prestidge, and Wesgro's HealthTech Ecosystem Manager Mandi Swanepoel.

Indaba – an ecosystem of innovation.

"The Healthcare Indaba has become the intellectual core of Africa Health; it's a catalyst for change on a global scale,” says Makarutse.

“By bringing together diverse stakeholders at the highest echelons of their various fields in healthcare – including policymakers, facility directors, entrepreneurs, and academics – we are establishing an ecosystem of innovation that can truly transform healthcare delivery across Africa and inspire solutions worldwide.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Health .

About Africa Health Congress:

  • Africa Health is organised by the Informa Markets' Global Healthcare Group. It takes place at Cape Town International Convention Centre in South Africa between 22 and 24 October 2024.
  • A summary report from the Africa Health Congress 2023 can be downloaded from https://apo-opa.co/3YvA7Nb
  • The Exhibition will host CPD-accredited conferences that are aimed at bridging the gap in medical knowledge by providing the very latest insights into cutting-edge procedures, techniques, and skills.
  • For more information, visit www.AfricaHealthExhibition.com 
  • Media queries and requests for accreditation can be addressed to Martin Slabbert at 079 500 1503 or martin@alkemi.global

Issued by Alkemi Collective on behalf of Africa Health.

Read moreHealthcare Indaba 2024: Advancing Global Health Through Innovation and Digital Solutions

McKenzie reflects on 100 days in office

Location: News

McKenzie reflects on 100 days in office

Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has reflected on his first 100 days in office as being characterised by "putting out fires" and ensuring that the sector has access to opportunities.

These opportunities include a new agreement to fund the film sector, as well as ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive in sport and the arts.

“One key observation of the first 100 days in government is that the ministry has had to respond to several crises and last-minute challenges. One example was the need to rescue the National School of Arts, which was facing closure due to overwhelming financial pressures.

“In August 2024, the Ministry also became aware of a crisis in South Africa’s imminent hosting of the U18 African basketball championships, known as the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) U18 Afrobasket.

“To safeguard South Africa’s international reputation as a credible host country, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) took over the handling of the event with less than two weeks to go, which ultimately saved the tournament,” the ministry said on Thursday in Johannesburg.

READ | Minister McKenzie steps in to assist National School of the Arts

McKenzie and Deputy Minister Peace Mabe provided a full feedback report to the nation on their first 100 days in office following their swearing into office in the Government of National Unity (GNU) on 3 July 2024.

The Minister’s wide-ranging portfolio encompasses sport, arts, culture, heritage, recreation, social cohesion and nation building, the custodianship of archives and more.

“At the end of August, South Africa’s attendance at the World Athletics U20 Championships in Peru was also about to fail. The ministry had to step in at the last minute to ensure the young athletes were able to fly to South America. The athletes received their flights to Peru, with mere hours to spare.

“The South African team then delivered an outstanding all-round performance, finishing sixth in the overall medal standings, with a total of seven medals: three gold, two silver, and two bronze. Rising star Bayanda Walaza was confirmed as the fastest teenager in the world,” the ministry said.

READ | Acting President Mashatile congratulates South African sports stars

Access to opportunities

McKenzie has signed a ground-breaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube.

“The new MoU aims to progressively transform access to both sports and cultural programmes in schools, ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive in sport and the arts.

“This MoU marked a milestone in the GNU’s vision to deliver equality of access for all young people, particularly those in rural, township, and underprivileged areas,” the ministry said.

READ | Partnership to transform access to sports programmes in schools

Furthermore, the Cultural and Creative Industries Bosberaad took place on 29 - 30 August and was attended by 72 sector and sub-sector organisations, with a total of more than 200 participants in attendance.

“The Bosberaad was a follow-up to bilateral meetings that the ministry had earlier set up with individual organisations and key industry players across different domains and disciplines.

“It assisted in reimagining a new sector ecosystem, where representative sector and sub-sector organisations can enjoy direct recognition and support from government.

“This reconfiguration has enabled the department to come up with a new funding model, which will be rolled out in the new financial year, built on principles of inclusivity, broad-based recognition and equitable distribution of available resources for sector-organisation support – as opposed to just funding a few, selected organisations,” the ministry said.

The ministry also provided new musical instruments and infrastructure to the Mitchell’s Plain Music Academy and the Isivivana Centre in Khayelitsha, which received audiovisual equipment and support.

“The ongoing process of formalising the uniquely South African motorsport of spinning is continuing apace, with the ministry being part of the announcement of two major new sponsors for the sport, Cell C and Kappa, with more support for the sport now flowing in from the private sector,” the ministry said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 10/18/2024 - 09:45

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Minister leads charge for ethical leadership in local government

Location: News

Minister leads charge for ethical leadership in local government

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has urged municipal councils to adopt the new Code for Ethical Leadership in Local Government and submit their resolutions to the MECs responsible for local government.

This comes after the Minister jointly signed a circular with the South African Local Government Association (Salga), President Bheki Stofile. 

The Minister has further urged councils to implement the code swiftly, with a clear timeframe for action.

Launched in March 2024 during the Local Government Summit on Ethical Leadership, the code was developed through the Local Government Ethical Leadership Initiative (LGELI) in partnership with the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, the Ethics Institute, Salga, and the Moral Regeneration Movement.

“The code is a cornerstone of the Local Government Anti-Corruption Strategy, aiming to build a sector committed to ethical standards, service delivery, and good governance. 

“It addresses corruption head-on, ensuring incidents are dealt with swiftly and justly while embedding a professional culture of ethics within municipalities,” the statement read. 

Unlike the code of conduct for councillors or municipal staff, the department said this one provides local government leaders with guidance on navigating key issues that impact ethical governance, creating well-governed and effective municipalities. 

It also applies to both the political and administrative municipal leaders.

“For the code to truly make a difference, it must become central to municipal discourse and be adopted by municipalities nationwide. Its principles must be consistently implemented by municipal leaders,” Hlabisa explained. 

Last year, the then Minister of CoGTA, Thembi Simelane, launched the Code for Ethical Leadership in Local Government and said this was an indication of the department’s commitment to fostering a just, inclusive, and transformed society through effective and efficient functioning municipalities.

“The collaboration by the State and non-State actors reaffirms that collaboration and shared responsibilities are key to addressing challenges faced by local government.

“Through this partnership, government is not only taking a stand against unethical conduct and corruption but also promoting a collaborative approach to governance that is essential for sustainable development,” Hlabisa said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 10/17/2024 - 11:29

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Move towards electronic vehicles a ‘major industrialisation opportunity’

Location: News

Move towards electronic vehicles a 'major industrialisation opportunity'

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the global move from Internal Combustion Engines towards Electronic Vehicles (EVs) presents a major opportunity for South African industrialisation.

The President was speaking during the South African Auto Week held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in the Western Cape on Thursday.

“As many of our major trading partners rapidly shift towards EVs, it is imperative that we remain part of this global supply chain. This is a major industrialisation opportunity for South Africa and the region, particularly within the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

“This will position South Africa as a forward-thinking, green economy. It will advance our aspirations to be a global automotive hub,” President Ramaphosa said.

He acknowledged that decarbonisation presents a challenge to the automotive sector, but assured that government is committed to working closely with the sector.

“The transition towards cleaner and more sustainable fuels – together with stringent regulations in key markets – puts a number of automotive firms and sub-industries in a vulnerable position. Even as the journey to net zero poses a challenge for the auto industry, there is at the same time immense opportunity. 

“The local automotive sector needs to position itself to take advantage of the demand for electric vehicles, new energy vehicles and sustainable fuels. The transition to cleaner, more sustainable practices in the automotive industry is a priority for our government. The automotive industry has a critical role to play in achieving South Africa’s climate targets.

“We are committed to working hand-in-hand with the private sector to promote the production of New Energy Vehicles [NEV] and the development of the necessary infrastructure to support them,” he said.

READ | President Ramaphosa to address SA Automotive Week

Furthermore, President Ramaphosa revealed that the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, National Treasury and the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources are in discussion on the implementation of the Electric Vehicle White Paper.

“This work includes the beneficiation of our critical minerals for the production of new energy vehicles and their associated value chains. It also includes the production of batteries for battery electric vehicles and the development of value chains in the green hydrogen fuel cell market.

“We are working to finalise comprehensive NEV policy guidelines that do not exclude alternative technologies such as hybrids and plug-in hybrids. Consideration must be given to incentives for manufacturers as well as tax rebates or subsidies for consumers to accelerate the uptake of electric vehicles.

“This is not just about creating a greener future but also about ensuring South Africa remains competitive in the global market.”

Removing barriers

The President emphasised that government, through reforms in energy, logistics and other sectors, is working to remove the barriers that affect the sector.

“As government, we remain firmly committed to the work already underway to improve the operational performance of our energy, freight and logistics sectors – all of which directly impacts the automotive industry.

“Transnet continues with its work to revitalise the Port of Durban. It is also proceeding with the upgrade of the Gauteng-Eastern Cape railway line as part of Project Ukuvuselela,” he said.

The President told the delegates that the Government of National Unity looks forward to “deepening our collaboration as government, industry and labour” to achieve the objectives of inclusive growth and job creation.

“There may be headwinds. But in challenges lie opportunities. It is up to us to harness these opportunities to grow, to expand and to transform,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 10/17/2024 - 11:30

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Vantage Capital Concludes a €66M Deal With Camusat

Location: Business
Vantage Capital Group

Vantage Capital (www.VantageCapital.co), Africa's largest mezzanine fund manager, announced today that it had closed a €66 million mezzanine investment in Camusat Holding S.A.S, the proceeds of which will be used to refinance debt and fund the capital expenditure required for expansion of the group's AktivCo division. Vantage Capital's investment is part of a global financing package of €81m provided in consortium with Eurazeo, a leading European investment group. 

Camusat is a leading telecommunications player managing fully integrated and sustainable business models for the deployment and management of telecom infrastructure whilst championing the decarbonization of mobile network operators (MNOs). Partnering with major investment funds that support green investments, Camusat is pursuing its ambition to become the leading “Infra as a Service”  partner for the mobile telecom industry, with a broad presence in emerging markets, especially in Africa. The group operates across twenty countries (including fifteen on the African continent) and through two synergistic divisions, AktivCo and OpCo: 

  • AktivCo is the Infrastructure as a Service business structuring and financing complex transactions under long-term contracts to transform the telecom infrastructure by applying sustainable business models. With a strong focus on low carbon footprint solutions and digitalization of operations, AktivCo accelerates the expansion and modernization of MNOs' infrastructure and reshapes the telecom world for cleaner communications; and  
  • OpCo is a telecom service partner that combines technical expertise with operational excellence to design, build, and manage  telecom infrastructure. 

Since inception, Camusat has been capitalizing on the rapid expansion of the telecom industry, but most importantly the ever-growing need of MNOs to outsource non-core operations to specialized service providers. This trend is observed worldwide but is more prevalent in emerging markets, especially Africa. As network coverage remains relatively low, MNOs are being pushed by regulators to ramp up their infrastructure investment especially to increase coverage in rural areas, where most of the population lives. MNOs therefore need to contract with service providers like Camusat to support the rapid and viable roll-out and management of their tower infrastructure. 

In this context, Camusat has established itself as the key strategic partner for telecom operators such as Orange, Moov Africa (Maroc Telecom group), MTN, Vodafone, Airtel and others. The group's comprehensive offering drives long-term performance for mobile networks and inclusive connectivity, digitalization and sustainable access to technology, making it a one-stop-shop for MNOs. Its multi-decade experience and track record attest to the quality of its performance. 

Mr. Richard Thomas, CEO of Camusat, commented, “we are very pleased to have concluded the transaction with Vantage Capital. This financial and strategic partnership comes at a time when we are further expanding our presence in Africa, and we are confident that Vantage Capital's extensive network and expertise on the continent will be a great support in achieving our objectives.” 

Mr. Luc Albinski, Executive Chairman at Vantage Capital, added, “we are proud to partner with such a leading and dynamic group as Camusat. Throughout the process, we have been impressed by management's deep knowledge of the telecom industry, but also their firm commitment to help increase connectivity in parts of Africa where network coverage remains underdeveloped.” 

Mr. Thibaut de Rodellec, Deputy CEO of Camusat, said, “we were convinced from our very first discussions that Vantage Capital and Camusat would be a great fit. We always look beyond the financial aspect when forming new partnerships, and we were glad to discover that our firms share common ethics, vision and dedication. We will ensure this partnership is a success for all stakeholders.” 

Mr. Driss Benabdeslam, Partner at Vantage Capital, concluded, “by investing in Camusat, we are backing a group that is engaged in a vital and buoyant industry and constantly strives for operational and corporate excellence. Camusat has incorporated best-in-class ESG practices and implemented various CSR measures directed at supporting local communities and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions from the telecom sector. We are thrilled to support the group in creating more value and generating an even greater positive social impact over the years to come.”  

This transaction represents Vantage Capital's 39th investment across four generations of funds with its portfolio of investments spread across eleven African countries.   

Vantage Capital was advised by Clifford Chance (in Morocco) who acted as its legal counsel. KPMG (in France) and Webber Wentzel (in South Africa) provided tax advice, KPMG (in France) was the financial advisor, Emerton (in France) provided commercial advice, and Ibis Consulting (in France) reviewed the environmental impact. 

Camusat was advised by Goodwin Procter (in France) who acted as their legal counsel and Marlborough Partners (in France) who acted as financial advisor. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Vantage Capital Group.

For more information contact: 
Luc Albinski
Executive Chairman 
luc@vantagecapital.co.za  
Driss Benabdeslam 
Partner
driss@vantagemezzanine.com  

About Vantage Capital: 
Founded in 2001, Vantage Capital is an Africa-focused fund manager that has raised funds of over $1.6 billion. 

Since 2006, Vantage Capital's Mezzanine division has made 39 investments across four successive funds into 11 African countries, making it the largest and most experienced independent mezzanine funder on the continent. In addition, Vantage Capital's GreenX division has made 15 senior debt investments into South African solar and wind energy projects across three funds. Vantage Capital launched Vantage Best in Class in 2022 to provide long-term financial and strategic support to education businesses operating in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. As a first step, Vantage Best in Class has partnered with Maple Bear Global Schools, the largest and fastest growing franchise of K-12 bilingual schools in the world in a €100 million investment programme for the Central & Eastern European region. 

Vantage Capital targets mezzanine debt opportunities of $10-50m across more than a dozen key African markets. 

Mezzanine debt is an intermediate form of risk capital, which is situated between senior debt, the least risky tranche of the capital structure, and equity, the riskiest tranche of the capital structure. It combines elements of both debt and equity thereby providing companies with long-term funding on terms which are less dilutive to shareholders than pure equity. 

Website: www.VantageCapital.co.za  

About Camusat:  
Headquartered in Paris, Camusat is a global group operating in the telecommunications industry across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America.  

Over almost five decades of existence, it has established itself as leading player and a key partner for telecom operators, thanks to a comprehensive offering and best-in-class capabilities. With the launch of its AktivCo division in 2017, the group pioneered the ESCO (Energy as a Service) and TWESCO (Tower & Energy as a Service) models in Africa, enabling clients to achieve significant cost-savings and streamline their cash outflows, while ensuring a positive environmental impact with the use of renewable energies, low environmental solutions and smart technologies to support the deployment, extension and management of telecom infrastructure. The group has been able to secure infrastructure debt funding from major development finance institutions, including FEI (Facility for Energy Inclusion), Africa Go Green Fund, Proparco, and Norfund. 

Camusat employs more than 2,000 people and is guided by a highly dedicated and experienced management team with deep industry expertise and firm commitment to financial, operational, and environmental excellence.  

Since 2016, the group has been majority-owned by Equistone, a leading mid-cap private equity fund in Europe with 12 billion euros of assets under management since inception. Camusat's management owns the remaining share capital. 

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SA an “ardent voice” for the urgent reform of the UN Security Council

Location: News

SA an "ardent voice" for the urgent reform of the UN Security Council

South Africa will continue to advocate for the “urgent reform” of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who was delivering oral replies to questions in the National Assembly on Thursday afternoon.

The President bemoaned the fact that African countries make up at least a quarter of the United Nations (UN) member states, “yet not a single African country has a permanent seat at the table where decisions on the maintenance of international peace and security are made”.

He said this was a concern when issues relating to the African continent stand on the agenda of the UNSC.

“During the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, there was an acknowledgement by some of the five Security Council members that Africa should indeed by granted two permanent seats. However, there is no clarity to the issue of the veto.

“South Africa was among those UN member states that successfully advocated for the recently adopted Pact for the Future to commit urgently [for the] reform the Security Council.

“South Africa will remain an ardent voice for the urgent reform of the UN Security Council and the need to correct the historical injustices committed against our beloved continent,” President Ramaphosa said.

Pressing further, President Ramaphosa insisted that the reform of the UNSC was “vital to global efforts to advance peace and stability in the world”.

“In its current configuration, the [UNSC] has failed in the execution of its charter mandate because of narrow national interests that are pursued and the quest for further geo-political influence.

“It has not been able, in recent years, to prevent or to resolve several damaging conflicts around the world. This is evident in conflicts currently underway in the Middle East, in Sudan, in the East part of the DRC and between Russia and Ukraine.

“The shortcomings of the UNSC have had a disastrous impact on the African continent and the global South which in many ways often experiences the social and economic effects that are taking places elsewhere,” he said.

The President emphasised that geo-political realities have changed since the formation of the UN.

“South Africa maintains that the international political and economic system remains unequal and unjust. It reflects the world as it was more than 70 years ago not as it is today.

“We therefore continue to call for the urgent reform of the Security Council based on the common African position. This position, which is articulated in the Ezulwini Consensus, calls for two permanent seats and five non-permanent seats on the [UNSC] for Africa. 

“It calls for the abolishment of the veto right and prerogative that currently is held by five members. But is also says that for as long as the veto exists, it is a privilege and a prerogative which should be extended to all new permanent members as well,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 10/17/2024 - 15:16

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Empowering Africa’s Energy Future With Advanced Power Solutions

Location: Business
HIMOINSA

HIMOINSA (www.HIMOINSA.com), a leader in power technology solutions and part of the Yanmar Group, is proud to announce the launch of its latest innovation: the HGY Series. This new engine line, with a capacity range from 1250kVA to 3500kVA (with future plans to reach 4000kVA), has the potential to significantly help address Africa's growing energy needs, particularly in key sectors critical to the continent's economic development, such as healthcare, mining, oil and gas, and tech hubs like data centers.

Download document: https://apo-opa.co/3NyfcCw

With the HGY Series, HIMOINSA enters the high-capacity engine segment, providing tailored solutions that meet the needs of Africa's mission-critical sectors where reliable and efficient power generation is vital. The company's focus on Africa reflects its strategic commitment to supporting the continent's rapid industrialization and infrastructure expansion.

Delivering Reliable Power Where It Matters Most

Africa is home to some of the world's fastest-growing economies, yet power generation remains a critical challenge in several key regions. HIMOINSA's HGY Series engines are engineered to deliver robust and sustainable solutions, particularly in areas with unstable national grids, helping to mitigate downtime, load-shedding and other challenges. By offering flexible fuel options, currently capable of operating with a range of diesel types and HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil), with future plans to support natural gas and hydrogen, the HGY Series ensures that businesses and communities across Africa have access to low-emission, efficient, and reliable power, regardless of local grid conditions.

Guillermo Elum, HIMOINSA's EMEA Region Head, highlighted the company's dedication to the African market: “Africa is a key growth region for HIMOINSA, and our approach goes beyond merely selling products; we are committed to building local capacity. Our training programs in Angola, South Africa, Morocco, Togo and soon, in Tanzania, ensure that African technicians and engineers are fully equipped to manage and maintain our technology, creating skilled jobs and developing expertise across the continent.”

Boosting Africa's Economic Growth

The launch of the HGY Series is part of HIMOINSA's broader investment strategy to support Africa's economic development. The company's Spanish production facilities, including a new factory in Murcia with a capacity of 1,000 units currently under construction, are set to help supply the African market, ensuring fast delivery and minimal logistical challenges, so businesses can rely on timely support and services. Additionally, its focus on training and local partnerships enhances the technical skills of local communities, empowering them to manage critical power infrastructure and stimulating economic growth.

Francisco Gracia, CEO of HIMOINSA, stressed the significance of the HGY Series for Africa: “We see enormous potential in Africa's industrial and digital sectors, and the HGY Series is a powerful tool for realizing that potential. From supporting vital healthcare facilities to powering new data centers that drive digital transformation; to providing continuous power for mining projects, our solutions are designed to make a tangible impact in Africa's growth story. This launch is more than just a product introduction; it is our commitment to being a partner in Africa's progress.”

Dedicated to Sustainability in Africa

The HGY Series engines are not just about power—they are about powering Africa sustainably. Designed to work seamlessly with micro-grids and renewable energy sources, these engines offer a viable solution for rural and urban areas seeking to integrate intermittent solar and wind power into their energy mix. HIMOINSA's generators support Africa's energy transition, aligning with the continent's growing focus on renewable energy and reduced carbon emissions.

The company's presence in Africa through divisions in Angola, South Africa, Morocco, Togo, and Tanzania enables it to deliver localized support in the continent's most widely spoken languages. This commitment to on-the-ground engagement ensures that African clients receive comprehensive training and support, helping businesses reduce operational costs and improve efficiency.

Driving Innovation Across Africa's Most Critical Sectors

HIMOINSA's new HGY Series is ideally suited for sectors that drive Africa's economic growth. Data centers, which are rapidly expanding due to the rise of digital services and AI, can now benefit from high-capacity, low-emission solutions designed to minimize downtime and optimize performance. Healthcare facilities, often located in remote or underserved areas, will gain access to dependable power solutions essential for life-saving equipment. Mining operations and oil and gas fields can also leverage the versatility and efficiency of the HGY engines to operate in demanding environments, ensuring continuity even when the grid fails.

https://HGY-Series.HIMOINSA.com/

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of HIMOINSA.

About HIMOINSA: 
Founded in 1982, HIMOINSA is a global leader in the design and manufacture of power generation solutions. With a wide range of products including generator sets, lighting towers, and energy storage systems, the company has a track record of delivering reliable, efficient, and innovative power solutions. As part of the Yanmar Group, HIMOINSA combines decades of expertise with cutting-edge technology to meet the evolving energy needs of customers worldwide.

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New vehicles to help fight crime in eThekwini

Location: News

New vehicles to help fight crime in eThekwini

To bolster ongoing efforts to curb crime and ensure increased police visibility, the eThekwini Metro Police in KwaZulu-Natal has procured an additional 146 vehicles to be added to their fleet.

The procurement of new vehicles comes after the city announced plans to roll out the Smart Policing System, which seeks to fast track crime reports.

eThekwini Metro Police spokesperson, Colonel Boysie Zungu, said the fleet includes 50 Volkswagen (VW) Golf GTIs, 29 Ford Rangers, 30 Isuzu bakkies, and 37 VW Polos.

Zungu commended the council for approving the procurement and for sharing the Metro Police’s vision of ensuring a safe city for residents, businesses and visitors.

“Further crime prevention initiatives will be implemented and will be announced in due course as the city prepares to welcome thousands of holidaymakers during the festive season,” Zungu said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK
Thu, 10/17/2024 - 09:40

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SIU, GP Legislature sign MoU

Location: News

SIU, GP Legislature sign MoU

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Integrity Commission have signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance governance, ethics, and integrity through collaborative oversight.

The SIU said in a statement that the two will embark on activities including responding to complaints, sharing reports, exchanging governance information and collaborating on joint projects. 

“The cooperation will also involve sharing practical experience, organising roundtable discussions, and referring complaints between the parties. Specific implementation strategies will be developed through project-specific memoranda of agreements. A monitoring and implementation committee will conduct quarterly assessments,” the SIU said.

Integrity Commissioner at the legislature, Koko Mashigo, said the signing of the MoU “lays the foundation for a fruitful and mutually beneficial collaboration”.

“This partnership is built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared vision of making a broader impact by ensuring that the institutions we represent and all spheres of government conform to the highest standard of ethical behaviour. 

“By combining our resources and leveraging your skills and competencies, we are destined to make a meaningful impact in our respective institutions,” Mashigo said. 

SIU Head Advocate Andy Mothibi said the move was another step in implementing and maintaining high standards of integrity in the public sector.

“We are delighted that the SIU and the Gauteng Legislature have agreed to this memorandum of understanding. So today marks a new chapter in our shared journey. 

“We are not just signing a document. We are cementing what is a promise to ourselves and a promise to the public, a promise to work together to innovate and to create value that extends far beyond our individual capabilities. 

“This MOU is built on a foundation of mutual respect and shared vision. We believe that by combining our strengths, we can achieve a remarkable objective in the fight against corruption, maladministration and malpractices in South Africa,” Mothibi said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 10/16/2024 - 14:45

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Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI) And Deep Tech Innovations Take Centre Stage

Location: Business
Expand North Star

Expand North Star 2024 (www.ExpandNorthStar.com), the world's largest startup and investment event, continued its journey of innovation on its third day at Dubai Harbour. Attendees from around the world witnessed revolutionary advancements in Applied AI and Deep Tech, demonstrating how these technologies are disrupting industries and solving complex global challenges.   

Integrated with GITEX GLOBAL, Expand North Star runs until 16 October, providing a powerful platform for over 1,800 exhibiting startups and more than 1,200 investors managing assets exceeding USD $1 trillion. 

Applied AI and Deep Tech Innovations Redefine Healthcare and Space Innovation 

Day three was a showcase of next-generation solutions in robotics, AI, and deep tech, providing a glimpse into the future of these sectors.  

Cutting through the noise were innovative startups such as China's RoboCT with their innovative exoskeleton technology, launching the UGo Rehab Exoskeleton, specifically designed for patients with lower-limb dysfunction, spinal cord injury, strokes, or cerebral palsy. Dr. Tian Wang, Founder and CEO of RoboCT Group, stated, "UGo enhances the rehabilitation process and delivers an effective walking training solution by integrating advanced sensors, data analysis, and research, empowering patients to rehabilitate more effectively at home."  

On the digital health frontier, JADE introduced a platform tailored for neurodivergent children, including those with ADHD, down syndrome, and autism. The app's sophisticated tracking of eye movements, cognitive response times, and memory functions equips healthcare professionals and educators with precise data to create personalised care and learning strategies.  

Meanwhile, scanO, a pioneering Indian-born deep tech company, is leading the way in developing generative AI models for predicting disease progression. The company showcased its flagship product, scanO air—the world's first contactless AI-powered robotic system for oral health screening—revolutionizing early detection and diagnosis. 

In space technology sector, Triggers-Reports from Mauritius introduced Triggers-sat, a satellite platform that provides high-resolution imaging and 3D modeling to assist businesses and governments in areas such as natural resource management and climate risk disaster monitoring. 

Rising International Participation from Asia and Latin America  

As the global innovation hub, Expand North Star continues to see international participation rise, showcasing how regions and countries are pushing boundaries with novel solutions. 

Tatiana Riera, COO of ApexBrasil, highlighted Brazil's expanding presence at Expand North Star: "From just 20 startups in 2019, we have expanded to 45 startups this year, along with four innovation hubs. Brazil is a great hub for fintech because of the diversity in social levels, so most of our unicorns come from fintech. We also focus a lot on Deep Tech, AI, and climate tech solutions since we have six biomes and need to take care of them. We have a company that uses natural foam to build soundproof material for construction and another company building silent tractors that run on renewable energy."   

Similarly, Singapore's SGTech made a noteworthy debut at Expand North Star, emphasizing the importance of cross-border collaboration in driving tech-driven solutions forward. Alex Ng, Exco Member, SGTech said: "Singapore's innovative startups are making a significant impact at Expand North Star 2024, with six outstanding companies exhibiting under the Singapore Pavilion. These companies showcase cutting-edge technologies across various sectors, including digital twins, industrial AI and biotech, with the event serving as a groundbreaking global launchpad for startups to foster valuable networking with investors." 

Africa's Path to Economic Growth 
With global participation continuing to flourish, the spotlight also turned towards Africa, where burgeoning tech ecosystems are paving the way for a new wave of entrepreneurs and innovators. H.E. Savannah Maziya, Minister, Ministry of Information, Communications & Technology, Eswatini, alongside other thought leaders, emphasised the importance of structured development to tackle unique market challenges and unlock Africa's economic potential.   

Celina Lee, CEO & Co-Founder, Zindi, South Africa, highlighted the trend of talent returning to Africa to start companies and create ecosystems that foster innovation and attract global corporations like Microsoft to set up labs in Ghana and Nairobi.   

Speaking on the challenges facing Africa, Olatunbosun Alake, Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Lagos State Government, Nigeria, said, "The greatest challenge in Africa is education. In Nigeria, if you look at the most educated parts, they show economic value, whereas in the north, where education levels are not as high, economic productivity is lower. There needs to be an African Renaissance of education funding across the board because if you drive education, educate, and enlighten people, people will change the environment.” 

Across its four-day span, Expand North Star continues to shed light on the future of industries through defining events such as GITEX Impact, Fintech Surge, Future Blockchain Summit, and Marketing Mania. These events underscore how emerging technologies are transforming the way we live and are also playing a pivotal role in reshaping the future.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Expand North Star.

Media Contact: 
Tayce Marchesi, PR Manager, DWTC | tayce.marchesi@dwtc.com     
Ahmad Khalloudi, Account Manager, Seven Media | ahmadkhalloudi@sevenmedia.ae 
Doyin Odulana, Senior PR Manager, Seven Media | adedoyinodulana@sevenmedia.ae 

Follow Expand North Star on Social Media: 
Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/487fqdm)| X (https://apo-opa.co/4h5l6sx)| Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4eIQXhe)| LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/485znl3)
Hashtag: #ExpandNorthStar 

About Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC):  
A global business facilitator since 1979, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) is home to the region's leading purpose-built convention and exhibition centre. DWTC provides a platform for connecting people, products, innovation and ideas from around the world through a dynamic calendar of international trade exhibitions and its own roster of sector leading mega events. As a designated free zone, complemented by award-winning commercial real estate, DWTC plays an integral role in Dubai and the region's growth story. Since its inauguration, DWTC has hosted over 6,000 events, with an estimated economic output of AED 248 billion, attracting over 38 million business visitors to Dubai. 

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Warning against government subsidised housing scam

Location: News

Warning against government subsidised housing scam

The Department of Human Settlements has warned the public to be vigilant of a housing scam on social media platforms.

On social media accounts, scammers falsely claim to be department employees and offer assistance with government-subsidised housing applications, targeting unsuspecting citizens and offering government subsidy houses (RDP), also known as Breaking New Ground (BNG), around the country at a staggering cost of R100 000.

The department emphasised that applications for RDP/BNG houses can only be processed through the provincial Departments of Human Settlements and municipalities, and “no organisation is mandated to facilitate this on behalf of the government”.

“To qualify for a fully subsidised government house, applicants must meet specific criteria, including being a South African citizen, a first-time homeowner, and having a combined household income of less than R3 500 per month,” the department said.

The department urged citizens to exercise caution and report suspicious social media accounts to the department or municipalities immediately.

“To verify authenticity and avoid potential scams, citizens can contact the national Department of Human Settlements directly on 0800 146 873 or via email at info@dhs.gov.za, or visit their local municipal offices.

“The department remains committed to providing safe and affordable housing opportunities to qualifying South Africans and urges citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Wed, 10/16/2024 - 12:14

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Revitalising SA’s national parks to world destinations

Location: News

Revitalising SA’s national parks to world destinations

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has undertaken a bold initiative designed to elevate the country’s parks to world-renowned tourism destinations.

This will be achieved through the new Kruger, Kirstenbosch-iSimangaliso Icon Status Strategy, or KISS, which is focused on reforming each of these iconic sites into world-class destinations that set new standards for conservation, education, and sustainable tourism.

“Throughout the seventh administration we will reimagine each of our botanical and zoological gardens of the future. It will involve integrating cutting-edge technologies, enhancing visitor experiences, and implementing innovative conservation practices.

“By modernising infrastructure and embracing digital innovations, we aim to transform these destinations into more accessible and engaging experiences for all visitors, both local and international,” Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dr Dion George said on Tuesday in Cape Town.

Addressing the media on his 100 days in office, the Minister said elevating these iconic sites will inspire a deeper appreciation for the country’s environment and reinforce South Africa's leadership in global conservation initiatives.

“However, the transformation of these sites will span beyond environmental stewardship and into economic development. The KISS initiative will aim to create new jobs in the green economy and provide opportunities in fields such as environmental science, sustainable tourism, and wildlife management.

“By investing in training and capacity-building programs, we will empower local communities and foster inclusive growth from the ground up. Moreover, as South Africa prepares to assume the G20 Presidency next year, we see a unique opportunity to showcase these world-class sites on the global stage,” the Minister explained.

He said his department plans to host key G20 meetings and international conferences at locations like Kirstenbosch and the Kruger National Park, which will position South Africa as a premier destination for future global dialogues on sustainability and conservation driven economic development.

Captive lion breeding

Following in the footsteps of his predecessor, the Minister said he has taken a clear and decisive stance against captive lion breeding.

“The process initiated by my predecessor will continue. The Fair Industry for Lions, Leopards, Elephants, and Rhinos initiative, known as the FILLER, is dedicated to ensuring a fair and sustainable future for our country’s most iconic wildlife.

“Our goal is to boost economic activity and create jobs in eco-tourism and conservation, all while safeguarding these magnificent creatures for generations to come,” the Minister said.

Small-scale fishers and coastal communities

Recognising the difficulties faced by small-scale fishers and coastal communities, the Minister has initiated a process to simplify the application for fishing licenses.

“By removing bureaucratic barriers and streamlining procedures, we aim to make it easier for local fishers to obtain the necessary permits to operate legally and sustainably. This will empower individuals and small enterprises, promote inclusivity in the fishing industry and ensure that economic opportunities are accessible to those who need them most.

“In addition to policy reforms, I have embarked on a comprehensive 12-harbour tour to engage directly with the communities that rely on our maritime resources. So far, I have conducted oversight visits at four of these harbours, where I have met with local fishers, community leaders, and stakeholders. These visits have provided invaluable insights into the everyday realities and opportunities within the sector.”

During these engagements, issues ranging from infrastructure needs and safety concerns to market access and training opportunities were discussed.

“Moreover, I am meeting with lawyers for conservationists and small-scale fishers on the litigation currently heading to court. I am certain we can reach a settlement that will ensure the future of our African penguin population in the wild,” the Minister said. 

He was reflecting on the milestones of the work that has been done since his appointment by President Cyril Ramaphosa to lead the department.

The President appointed George and Deputy Ministers, Bernice Swarts and Narend Singh, on 03 July 2024 to lead the department under the Government of National Unity (GNU).

In the short to medium term, the department will prioritise climate change and energy; fisheries, particularly small-scale fisheries, and aquaculture; wildlife and biodiversity; and conservation efforts and environmental protection initiatives. - SAnews.gov.za
 

nosihle
Tue, 10/15/2024 - 12:43

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Minister announces project preparation bid window

Location: News

Minister announces project preparation bid window

A first of its kind project preparation bid window that will allow state owned entities, public entities and municipalities to apply for project preparation support has been announced.

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson and Acting Head of Infrastructure South Africa (ISA), Mameetse Masemola launched the project preparation bid window in Johannesburg on Tuesday.

“As we unveil the first-of-its-kind project preparation bid window, we are taking a decisive step towards achieving the economic growth and job creation that our country so desperately needs,” said the Minister.

The bid window invites submissions from national and provincial governments including state owned entities, public entities, municipalities and private sector projects to apply for project preparation support.

Macpherson said the initiative was a crucial step toward expanding infrastructure investment in the country adding that the announcement represents an important moment for South Africa and an evolution in the work that Infrastructure South Africa does.

“No longer are we talking about the pipeline of infrastructure projects, we are building.

“This initiative will enable us to move beyond the talking phase and focus on action—on laying the foundations for sustainable infrastructure that will support long-term development.

“It is not just about bricks, mortar, or steel. It is about creating a solid foundation for our economy to thrive, for our people to prosper, and for our nation to rise. 

“Infrastructure development touches every aspect of our lives, from the water we drink to the roads we drive on and it has the power to transform not only our economy but our society as a whole. The project preparation bid window we are unveiling today is therefore a game-changer.”

Macpherson said for far too long, one of the major barriers to infrastructure development in South Africa has been the lack of sufficient project preparation support.

“We are providing the tools necessary to ensure that infrastructure projects are shovel-ready, so they can be implemented efficiently and effectively,” he said.

Working together with ISA at the helm, government will see more cranes in the sky, more roads being built and more renewable energy projects coming online.

Masemola said one of the major contributing factors to under investment in infrastructure is the lack of sufficient project preparation support for infrastructure projects.

“To address these challenges and unlock the potential of infrastructure investments in South Africa, the National Treasury has granted ISA a project preparation fund to support project development to accelerate the pace and quality of infrastructure delivery,” she said.

Masemola said in future, ISA seeks to catalyze seed funding to blend with other project preparation facilities available to develop viable and bankable infrastructure projects.

The project preparation support is set to extensively expand the ability of construction projects to be implemented in South Africa. This as one of the major contributing factors to under-investment in infrastructure is the lack of sufficient project preparation support.

The new bid window builds on the 12 infrastructure initiatives President Cyril Ramaphosa previously announced at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium South Africa (SIDSSA) in March this year which already benefits from the first R179 million in project preparation funding allocated by the National Treasury to ISA to support catalytic projects that otherwise would not progress to implementation stage.

Applications

Applications for the next phase of project preparation bid window announced by the Minister today can made at ISA. 
Applications close on 06 December 2024 and is specifically for projects valued at more than R1 billion which have the potential to crowd in investment from alternative sources such as Multilateral Development Banks and Development Finance Institutions other than the national fiscus.

Successfully selected projects will receive comprehensive project preparation assistance including funding structuring support, technical support, legal support, institutional and governance arrangements, capacity deployment and regulatory compliance studies.

The following priority sectors will be considered for project preparation financing:

Energy
Water and Sanitation
Transport (major roads, airports, ports and freight transport)
Human Settlements (excluding student accommodation)
Social Infrastructure (Education & Health)
Municipal Infrastructure (focus will be on infrastructure projects that have potential to leverage private sector financing)
Industrial Development Zones & amp, Special Economic Zones (IDZs &amp, SEZs).

Guidelines for the project preparation bid window can be found on www.infrastructuresa.org. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Edwin
Tue, 10/15/2024 - 14:34

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PRASA committed to fostering a skilled workforce

Location: News

PRASA committed to fostering a skilled workforce

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has asserted that it remains committed to fostering a skilled and innovative workforce to drive the future of rail. 

As one of the strategies that it is implementing to attract a skilled workforce for the future of rail, the agency is engaging young learners, with the intention to empower and inspire the next generation to pursue careers in the rapidly evolving industry.

On Monday, the agency’s Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) Hishaam Emeran addressed about 70 learners from Mamelodi, Soshanguve, Lyttelton, Soweto, Tembisa, and Kempton Park at PRASA’s first ever career day held its headquarters in Johannesburg. 

READ | PRASA to expose learners to careers in the rail industry 

Emeran encouraged learners to consider a career in rail as the agency needs a new generation of leaders.

“PRASA is turning around, and we need a new generation of leaders. There is a future for you at PRASA, and the PRASA of the future will need new skills, new  innovation, and you are the generation that can drive that innovation,” Emeran said on Monday.

Emeran, who has an engineering background reaffirmed the agency’s commitment and aspirations to restore and revitalise passenger rail as the backbone of South Africa’s public transport.

During his address he provided an overview of what the agency does under its two primary mandates – providing transport services and generating additional revenue from its assets such as key stations. 

He also shared PRASA’s ongoing rail rebuilding milestones, including the rollout of world-class trains across the country and the development of student accommodation at Cape Town Station, which are positively impacting communities.

“Working for PRASA or a state-owned entity is a noble profession. You are changing the lives of millions of people. One day, you could be in my position, addressing learners like yourselves,” Emeran said.

PRASA’s Chief Engineer of Signals and Telecommunications Pabalelo Nkwe shared his personal journey and insights into the diverse career options within PRASA TECH.

“You can pursue a career in civil engineering to become a Perway Engineer with key focus on maintenance and engineering works for bridges; structures and railway tracks, mechanical engineering, electro-mechanical and mechatronics if you are interested in maintenance and engineering of the rolling stock/trains, or electrical engineering (Heavy Current) to become an Overhead Traction Equipment (OHTE) or substation engineering specialist or like me, pursue a career in Electrical Engineering (Light Current) and specialise in Railway Signalling and Telecommunications,” Nkwe said.

The event concluded with a trip to the Gibela manufacturing plant where PRASA’s new blue and white modern trains - Isitimela Sabantu - are manufactured. 

The Gibela team explained that it is manufacturing 600 trains for PRASA and 245 of these trains have been manufactured. Learners were given a tour of the facility and a first-hand look at the production process, sparking great excitement and interest. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 10/15/2024 - 14:48

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Internationally Acclaimed Student TV Quiz Show Africa Challenge Returns as University Challenge Africa!

Location: News
University Challenge Africa

The popular and internationally acclaimed TV quiz show formerly known as Celtel Africa Challenge and then Zain Africa Challenge, is making a comeback as University Challenge Africa (www.UniversityChallengeAfrica.com) in late 2025. The competition sees the brightest students from universities across Africa matching wits in a televised question-and-answer game show.

Richard Reid, the game's creator and producer, shares his excitement: “We are proud to bring back our iconic game under its new name, University Challenge Africa. With education being a top priority across the continent, we remain committed to working with our broadcast partners and sponsors to highlight the academic accomplishments of Africa's students and universities.”  

University Challenge Africa is not just a quiz show; it's an opportunity for students to shine on the international stage, test their skills and knowledge against peers from across the continent, and win a share of over $1,000,000 in scholarships and grants. With millions of viewers and a strong social media following, the show has a lasting impact on participating students and universities.

With previous versions of the competition featuring universities from eight African countries, the new format promises even more representation. Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa are planned participants in 2025, with universities from several other countries on the invitation list.

Reflecting on the programme's prior success, Tito Alai, who was the Group Chief Commercial Officer of Celtel and Zain Group, said: “Throughout its history, the competition was a source of pride in the accomplishments of our young men and women. Sponsoring the Africa Challenge was a great strategic marketing and CSR investment, reflecting our commitment to education, enriching students' lives, and boosting participating institutions' reputations.”

Past winners echo these sentiments, emphasising the transformative impact of the competition. James Tuitoek, Vice Chancellor of three-time winners Egerton University in Kenya, noted the university's pride in its students, along with the fact that the competition had not only enabled them to set up a computer lab with 24/7 internet access for students but also positioned Egerton as a university of choice for international students. Similarly, when Ibadan University in Nigeria won in season three, the House of Representatives Chairman on Education, Hon. Farouk Lawan praised the programme as an educational platform playing a pivotal role in promoting education across Africa.  

In addition to garnering praise from administrators and participants, University Challenge Africa also brings together some of the brightest minds from universities across the continent, with diverse interests and fields of study, presenting an opportunity for businesses to recruit future talent.  

The return of the successful University Challenge Africa will be welcome news to the continent, reflecting the competition's rich tradition of educational excellence and great entertainment, and delivering on the promise of African development.

For more information, please visit UniversityChallengeAfrica.com.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of University Challenge Africa.

Media Contact:
Richard Reid
President of the College Bowl Company
richard@collegebowl.com

Brand Partnerships & Marketing Contact:
Warren Couchman
Managing Director
Brand Partnerships
partnerships@universitychallengeafrica.com
University Challenge Africa: Delivering on the Promise of African Development (http://apo-opa.co/4f6Bp6O)

About University Challenge Africa:
University Challenge Africa, the Inter-University Battle of Brains formerly known as Zain Africa Challenge, is a proud member of the family of academic competitions created by the College Bowl Company. Our games have been part of communities around the world for over 70 years. They also include the award-winning US programmes College Bowl and Honda Campus All-Star Challenge and the renowned British game University Challenge.

Wherever our game is played, our MISSION is simple: Shine the light on the outstanding academic achievements of our players and universities.

We have a proven record of success with participating players and their universities, broadcasters, sponsors, audiences and the general public.

It's easy to explain our success in communities around the world, education is the #1 aspiration. When you support the community, the community supports you!

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Correctional Services addresses parole application backlog

Location: News

Correctional Services addresses parole application backlog

Minister of Correctional Services, Dr Pieter Groenewald, has concluded the backlog of parole applications for inmates who are serving life sentences.

This is according to the Department of Correctional Services (DCS).

“The Minister of Correctional Services, Dr Pieter Groenewald, committed to completing the backlog…by 15 October and has successfully processed these applications well ahead of the deadline.

“All profiles, including the inherited backlog of 495 cases and 104 new cases, a total of 599, have been concluded by the Minister as of 3 October 2024,” the department said.

The department explained that the Minister “approved 23 parole applications and has granted one case of day parole”.

“Three individuals serving life sentences have been granted parole and are subject to deportation, two of whom are citizens of Mozambique and one of whom is a citizen of Zimbabwe.

“The Minister made the undertaking to the Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services to give feedback on the 15th of October. However, the Chairperson indicated that it will form part of the agenda for the next meeting,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

NeoB
Tue, 10/15/2024 - 11:43

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