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Condolences for Mapaputsi

Location: News

Condolences for Mapaputsi

Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Gayton McKenzie has joined South Africans in mourning the loss of kwaito music pioneer, Sandile Ngwenya.

Ngwenya who was popularly known as Mapaputsi, passed away at the age of 48 earlier this week.

“We recognise the important contribution of this creative pathbreaker who was taken away from us too soon. Mapaputsi put kwaito on the map together with other legends like Zola 7, TKZee, Chiskop and many others,” the Minister said in a statement on Saturday.

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture said Mapaputsi’s unique talent and style has significantly impacted the kwaito music genre, broadening its appeal by fusing pantsula, pop and hip-hop elements.

“He shall be sorely missed. Our hearts go out to his family, friends and legions of fans. The Ministry will respect the family’s wishes for privacy during this difficult time,” the Minister said.

Meanwhile, Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Matome Chiloane expressed sadness at the passing of the “Izinja” hit maker.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of musician Mapaputsi. His influence on the sound of kwaito was unique. With his natural ability and swag, he took kwaito to a new level of appreciation by many fans of [the kwaito] music genre, infusing pantsula, pop, and hip-hop into one. 

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and all those [who] loved his music.”

The MEC said Mapaputsi’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians “and his name will remain etched in the files of our music catalogue.” -SAnews.gov.za 
 

Neo
Sun, 09/08/2024 - 13:33

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Praise for SA sports 

Location: News

Praise for SA sports 

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) has congratulated the Springboks on their 18-12 triumph against the All Blacks.

“Congratulations Bokke! Mzansi is very proud!” the department said in social media post on X.

Saturday’s win at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town is a second consecutive win for the Springboks against New Zealand in the 2024 Castle Lager Rugby Championship.

“The Boks outscored New Zealand by two tries to zero, clear proof of their eventual dominance, but they will be the first to admit that it was not the way they planned to execute the game plan. Like at Emirates Airline Park last weekend, the All Blacks led at the break, this time 9-3, but they could not maintain that, while a second yellow card by the visitors late in the game cost them dearly,” SA Rugby said in a match report.

The win saw the Boks clinch the Freedom Cup for the first time since 2009.

“It was also the Boks’ fourth win in a row over the Kiwis, the first time they achieved this in the professional era, and as a result, they won back the Freedom Cup for the first time since 2009.”

Meanwhile, the Springbok Women were also in action on Saturday, winning their match against the Barbarians Women’s side in Cape Town.

The Springbok Women claimed a 59-17 victory over their opponents.

In Friday’s match against Uganda, the men’s national football side Bafana Bafana drew 2-2 with their counterparts in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier at Orlando Stadium.

“Uganda had thought that they were on the cusp of a famous victory in South Africa, but debutant Thalente Mbatha had other ideas and snatched the precious equaliser deep in the referee’s optional time to ensure a sharing of the spoils,” said the South African Football Association (SAFA) in a statement.

In a post of X, DSAC Minister, Gayton McKenzie commended the team for their fighting spirit.

“Thanks for the great fight back Bafana Bafana ! You didn’t leave us heartbroken,” said the Minister adding that the team’s performance “made us jump for joy”. -SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Sun, 09/08/2024 - 11:57

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Two declarations inked in China to boost construction sector in SA

Location: News

Two declarations inked in China to boost construction sector in SA

South Africa has signed two declarations of intent with the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) and ASI Global during the State Visit to China.

South Africa’s Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson was one of the Ministers who joined President Cyril Ramaphosa on his State Visit to China to help achieve the vision of turning South Africa into a construction site, growing the economy and creating thousands of new jobs.

READ | SA to transform economy into manufacturing hub

According to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, the declaration of intent with the CCCC will work towards inviting the company to bid through the Public Management Finance Act (PMFA) in the construction and development of municipal works and public-owned buildings, fishing harbours and small ports. 

Meanwhile, the declaration of intent with ASI Global will work towards the entity helping to develop construction talent in South Africa, as well as their professional development.

“Shortly after I was appointed as Public Works and Infrastructure Minister roughly two months ago, I vowed that I will aim to use the portfolio to turn the country into a construction site for us to grow the economy and create thousands of new jobs. 

“The two declarations of intent signed during bilateral meetings in China, therefore, mark an important step towards us achieving that goal,” Macpherson said in a statement.  

He described the CCCC and ASI Global as two “very important” players in their respective fields. 

“The declarations of intent means that we can now invite them to make their expertise available to help develop our infrastructure and construction capabilities in South Africa, which will benefit the South African people across the country.” 

The Minister said that in the months ahead, the department will build on these declarations of intent to further develop agreements towards unblocking any challenges which may stand in the way of launching construction projects in South Africa.

“I look forward to inviting the CCCC and ASI Global to join us as we work towards our dream of turning the country into a construction site. 

“If we truly want to see rapid economic growth and job creation, the assistance of entities such as the CCCC and ASI Global, and many others across the world, will be crucial. I look forward to seeing how they work to help us improve South Africa. Let us build South Africa.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 13:02

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Tourism remains a key driver of the economy 

Location: News

Tourism remains a key driver of the economy 

The tourism sector remains a key driver of South Africa’s economy, says Tourism Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu.

Speaking at the recent Tourism Women’s Stakeholder Engagement, Sotyu said the Department of Tourism, through its programmes, gives expression to its mandate for inclusive economic growth and to grow the tourism sector.

“It is in this context that government will continue to create a conducive environment for youth, women and people with disabilities in tourism to pursue tourism careers including entrepreneurship.

“The world's fastest growing employment sector, tourism continues to adapt to new trends and South Africa is building the sector to ensure its sustainability for future generations. To drive sustained and inclusive growth of [the] tourism sector, we need to boost the talent pool. A demand-led skill supply in the sector is therefore pivotal,” she said.

Over the years, tourism has experienced continued growth and has undergone diversification to become one of the fastest growing economic sectors.

Programmes by the department include the Wine Service Training Programme, Chefs Training Programme, Professional Cookery, Food Safety Quality Assurers Programme, Food and Beverages Training, Tourism Monitors Programme and Tourist Guiding.

Deputy Minister Sotyu said the benefits of these programmes remain economic relief through stipends, placement in tourism establishments for exposure and experience and accreditation ranging from National Qualifications Framework (NQF) level 2 to NQF level 4.

“We will continue working with social partners to identify essential and demand-led skills required in the tourism sector and build the requisite skills through our departmental funding.

“The Tourism Incentive Market Access Support Programme offers partial financial support through contribution towards the cost of exhibition space, return airfare and hotel accommodation to qualifying small tourism enterprises to participate and exhibit at selected international tourism marketing platforms,” Sotyu said.

Tourism Month

Tourism Month is celebrated annually in September and provides a heightened month-long focus on the importance of the sector to the South African economy.

It features themed activities that are aligned to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation’s (UNWTO) World Tourism Day celebrations.

This year’s World Tourism Day will be celebrated in the Northern Cape Province under the localised theme: “Tourism and Peace – 30 years of connecting People to Places and Cultures”.

The event will be a celebration of the nation’s diverse cultural and historical heritage that continues to foster peace in South Africa, making the country a preferred holiday destination.

This global observance day by The United Nations World Tourism Organisation aims to foster awareness of tourism’s social, cultural, political and economic value and the contribution that the sector can make towards reaching the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Tourism Sector Recovery Plan

Tourism Month encourages South Africans to travel domestically to sustain jobs and support the recovery of tourism in line with the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan.

The department developed the plan with the tourism sector, and it contains a set of interventions to protect and rejuvenate supply, reignite demand and strengthen enabling capability to support the sector’s recovery.

“Tourism is a significant pillar of our economy and presents us with the best chance of increasing social inclusion by making heritage and tourism work for social, spatial and economic growth. But tourism is so much more than generating revenue. It also generates goodwill. Tourism is about the people of South Africa – united in diversity,” Sotyu said.

South Africa recently welcomed the latest inscription of the South African human rights and liberation struggle sites in the prestigious list of UNESCO’S World Heritage Sites.

READ | Cabinet commends addition of SA sites to UNESCO list

These heritage listings will add to the nation’s brand value and competitiveness of South Africa as a sought-after tourist destination as well as greatly support the country’s heritage tourism sector. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 13:27

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SA increases imports to China

Location: News

SA increases imports to China

Beijing, China - With the agreements that South Africa has signed with China in relation to trade, the country will see an increase in the imports of agricultural and manufactured products to China.

“We were able to sign eight agreements, many of which have to do with increased trade between the two countries and that has led to the opening up of the Chinese market for South African products, particularly with regards to beef,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Thursday in Beijing, China.

Addressing members of the media on the conclusion of his visit to the People’s Republic of China, Ramaphosa said the importation of beef into the Chinese market kept fluctuating as a number of areas in South Africa were affected by livestock diseases such as foot and mouth disease.

“That is a great achievement because it will lead to the increase of our agricultural products coming into China and we should see increased production in South Africa. Whenever such an occurrence would happen, they would ban the whole country, and we were able to reach an agreement that if there is an outbreak of foot and mouth disease it would just be restricted to one area in the country.

“That is a great achievement because it will lead to the increase of our agricultural products coming into China and we should see increased production in South Africa.

“The other area is for manufactured goods and products, to have an easier entry into China. With the agreement that we signed we were able to ensure that China would enable more manufactured goods from South Africa to be brought in. That for us is an important development,” the President said.

Agreements

He noted that China has achieved enormous development in technological development.

“We were able to reach an agreement on science, technology and innovation in terms of cooperation in relation to innovation research and we were able to have good discussions.

“We were able to reach agreements on aspects of our energy security. South Africa has been going through a huge challenge of energy security. China’s assistance in this regard is going to stand us in good stead so therefore our other objective was achieved.

“We also wanted enhanced cooperation on international issues in relation to our cooperation in BRICS is consolidated and solidified and in other multilateral organisations such as the United Nations and financial institutions that there needs to be reforms,” the President explained.

Relations with China

He said at a state level, South Africa has achieved a great deal during the visit to China.

“Our visit has been hugely successful. We will see a lot of progress in the country in developing our relationship with China, remembering that China is the second largest economy in the world. For us as South Africa it is important for us to promote our relations with China.

“China is our biggest trading partner, and we want an all-round cooperative strategic partnership in the new era to take it to a higher level. President Xi Jinping is at pains when he talks about not having enough manufactured goods from South Africa. He wants to see more goods in China from South Africa.”

To this end, President Xi opened the Chinese market for African countries to come and exploit the Chinese market.

“As the most industrialised country on the continent South Africa stands to benefit immensely from this relationship. This is an important market for us as South Africans. This is a county that is willing to deal with us at a very serious, economic and political level.

“This is an important market, and we have seen increased trade between our two countries. At the moment, the trade is imbalanced and in favour of China, rather than in our favour and it is this that we are focusing on, to correct that imbalance.

“That is why we welcome the opening up of the Chinese market for more and more finished goods from South Africa.

“We want to upgrade that economic activity to a higher level, so we are able to bring in more finished mineral goods, products or commodities into China and more finished agricultural products,” the President said. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 05:41

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Cabinet commends Eskom’s performance

Location: News

Cabinet commends Eskom's performance

Cabinet has commended Eskom for not implementing load shedding for more than 150 days – including over the South African winter period.

Acting Minister in the Presidency, Maropene Ramokgopa, told a post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday that stable electricity supply is imperative for economic growth in the country.

“Cabinet commends Eskom, its board, management and all its employees who have worked tirelessly to ensure that South Africa will have no load-shedding this summer as the power utility continues to add more electrons to the grid through its generation recovery plan.

“A reliable energy supply is vital for growing our economy, boosting confidence and enhancing the quality of life of our citizens.

“Government continues to execute the Energy Action Plan, which has been instrumental in reducing the frequency of load-shedding through planned maintenance of Eskom’s power-generation fleet. The reform of our energy sector is a critical component of our efforts to create a secure energy future for our people,” she said at the briefing held in Cape Town.

Staying on the reform agenda, Ramokgopa said President Cyril Ramaphosa has fulfilled his undertaking to “recalibrate” State Owned Enterprises (SOEs).

In that regard, she added, the responsibility for strategic SOEs have been “transferred to the various line ministries, after the President had signed the relevant proclamation to this effect”. 

“This step coincides with plans to create a centralised shareholder model through which the State seeks to better leverage the capabilities of our SOEs to grow the economy, improve service delivery, and infuse the SOEs with the requisite commercial and strategic agility.

“The responsibility for power utility Eskom has been transferred to the Ministry of Energy and Electricity and Transnet, South African Airways and South African Express to the Ministry of Transport.

“The state-owned diamond mining company Alexkor will be managed by the Ministry of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, aerospace and military technology conglomerate Denel will fall under the Ministry of Defence and Military Veterans while South African Forestry Company SOC Limited, which is responsible for state forestry, will report to the Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment,” Ramokgopa said. 

SA avocados in Japan

On agricultural export matters, the first batch of South African avocados have arrived in Japan.
“[This marks] a significant boost for the local avocado sector, and demonstrates the positive impact of the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan, which aims to expand access to key new markets for South African producers.

“South African avocado growers now stand to benefit significantly as efforts to increase market access for our agricultural produce continues. India, China and Japan represent a combined market opportunity of over 2.5 billion people,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 09/05/2024 - 11:58

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Economic spinoffs of direct Munich-Joburg flight

Location: News

Economic spinoffs of direct Munich-Joburg flight

The significance of a direct flight from Munich in Germany to Johannesburg is “incalculable” for Gauteng’s economy, according to the Gauteng Department of Economic Development (GDED).

This follows the inaugural landing of the Lufthansa direct flight from Munich to Johannesburg on Wednesday.

The airliner is expected to operate at least three weekly flights between the two cities.

“The significance of this route to the Gauteng provincial economy is incalculable. Munich, the third largest metropolitan region in the European Union by gross domestic product is the nerve centre of the south German economy and a global city that serves as the headquarters for many international companies in the manufacturing, finance, telecommunications, automotive, media and logistics sectors. 

“Thus, this new direct Johannesburg-Munich flight brings better connectivity to corporate companies who are headquartered in southern Germany, facilitating the further economic development and strong business relations between Germany and South Africa in general, and the Gauteng City Region in particular,” the department said in a statement.

The GDED said the launch of the route during South Africa’s Tourism Month is also significant.

Last year, some 245 259 German tourists visited South Africa – a rise from 173 146 the previous year.

“[This is] a period dedicated to shining a spotlight on tourism, its impact on the economy and livelihood. Munich is a particularly popular destination amongst tourists visiting Germany, as such, this direct flight will offer residents of Gauteng and South Africa broadly, an opportunity to explore the world with greater ease.

“Destination Gauteng is also positioned to welcome more international tourists from Germany and the broader European Union, where they will explore and enjoy the many diverse tourism offerings that the province has to offer including paleo-sciences, gastronomy, sports tourism, and quality township tourism experiences,” the statement read.

The department revealed that since the devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused a “severe loss of airlift and new routes development work”, it has been hard at work to implement a programme of, among others, route development.

“Together with our marketing partners, the [department] has implemented a protracted programme of air routes development, aggressive recruitment of new airline routes into the destination’s main international airports and support for freight, cargo and film crews, private charters, and medical rescue services.

“The Tourism Business Council of South Africa…supported this targeted work by the Gauteng Provincial Government in improving airlift capacity in the province. 

“With their R5 million injection, we managed to power our marketing and coordination work resulting in the province welcoming new routes from Sao Paulo in Brazil, Abidjan in Ivory Coast, Lusaka in Zambia, Perth in Australia, eSwatini Airways, Qantas Airline and now Munich in Germany,” the GDED statement said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 09/05/2024 - 13:27

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Ster-Kinekor Launches Capegate Kids’ Cinema

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

Ster-Kinekor invites kids and their families to the new Kids’ Cinema at Capegate Shopping Centre in Brackenfell, designed exclusively for children and their families. This exciting addition offers a unique, immersive movie experience that combines the magic of cinema with playful features that children will love. A Cinema Tailored for Kids The new Capegate Kids’ …

Read moreSter-Kinekor Launches Capegate Kids’ Cinema

Tugboats to improve services at Transnet’s Port of East London 

Location: News

Tugboats to improve services at Transnet’s Port of East London 

The Port of East London on Thursday received the two last tugboats marking the completion of Transnet National Ports Authority’s (TNPA) R1billion investment towards the Marine Fleet Renewal Programme.

The programme is aimed at boosting tugboat availability and enhancing shipping operations.

The programme is a key element of the Transnet Recovery Plan which is critical in driving shipping efficiencies and reliability, whilst also positioning the ports as competitive and a catalyst for economic growth. 

The tugboats are designed to provide marine services including the safe navigation of vessels, pilotage, towage and waterside pollution combat.

The two tugs delivered by Damen Shipyards Cape Town (DSCT) replace the existing tug fleet that has reached its operational lifespan at the Port of East London in the Eastern Cape.

The latest tugs comprising modern technology solutions are built with an azimuth stern drive and have an improved bollard pull of 60-tonnes compared to the 43-tonnes bollard pull on the existing tugs.
The procurement of the tugs serves as a catalyst for the port’s expansion plan.

The plan also includes the deepening and strengthening of the port’s automotive berth to address berthing challenges. 

The project hit a significant milestone in November 2023 with the commencement of the concrete works package. 

Also included in the river port’s expansion plan is the delivery of two jib cranes for the port's dry dock facility, which will increase the ship repair facility’s capacity and volume throughput in the 2024/25 financial year.

Strategic projects

The advanced features of the two new tugs will enable the port to respond to the anticipated shipping and volume demands.

“The journey towards the full recovery of Transnet lies in our commitment to growth and investing in fit-for-purpose equipment,” said Transnet Board Chairperson, Andile Sangqu who spoke during the tug naming and christening ceremony held at the port.

“This acquisition is a crucial investment towards creating a sustainable port system and will enable the execution of strategic projects currently underway at the Port of East London,” Sangqu said.

Recovery Plan

Sangqu said Transnet is currently executing a number of actionable steps to halt the decline in operational and financial performance through the Transnet Recovery Plan launched in October 2023.

“The Recovery Plan directs us to prioritise revitalising our ageing marine assets in order to improve operational efficiency and serve our customers better. Investing in port infrastructure to drive efficiency and reliability is a catalyst for improved economic competitiveness. 

“Ports are the lifeblood of trade, the gateways through which goods flow in and out of our economy,” Sangqu said.  

Lentswe and Kganya

At the christening ceremony, tug Lentswe meaning “the voice of sailors” was unveiled by Transnet Board Member, Boitumelo Sedupane in her role as the tug’s Lady Sponsor, while tug Kganya meaning “light” and symbolising guidance in safe navigation of vessels, was revealed and christened by TNPA Board Member Valda Gossman. 

The names of the tugs were chosen through a naming competition run among TNPA employees.

The two tugs are in addition to the five tugs which were delivered at the Port of Durban last month.

“We are proud to have delivered these tugboats for TNPA. The vessels represent a substantial investment in our maritime infrastructure and will contribute to local job creation and skills development as DSCT will provide all operational support, including spares, repairs, and services,” said Sefale Montsi, Director at Damen Shipyards Cape Town.

“Through a centralised system, the vessel will provide data-driven insight for timely information on ship operations,” she said. 

Attracting investors

 Eastern Cape acting Premier Mlungisi Mvoko said the acquisition of the two tugboats is part of enhancing operations at the Port of East London.

“Today’s milestone aligns with our strategic view that our ports are the biggest instruments for attracting investors in the province,” Mvoko said.

Mvoko said the province is pleased with TNPA’s investment in boosting tugboat availability and shipping efficiencies at the port.

“Our customers in this port are set to benefit from the improved capacity in the new tugboats when compared to the existing maritime crafts that have reached their lifespan. We believe that this will have positive impact on the container vessel turnaround time and ultimately increase efficiencies and productivity at the port. 

“It is these efficiencies that we will leverage on to increase our economic activities in areas of the automotive sector and agriculture, our two main economic drivers in the Eastern Cape.

“We are trying very hard to lure as many investors to the province as we can. It is the only way we can deal with the high rate of unemployment. All customers in this port are set to benefit from the improved capacity in the new tugboats when compared to the existing maritime crafts that have reached their lifespan,” the acting Premier said.

The delivery of the fleet is part of TNPA’s R1 billion investment in boosting tugboat availability and shipping efficiencies in the South African seaports.

From the acquisition, the Port of Durban has been allocated five tugboats while two tugs have been allocated to the Port of East London. – SAnews.gov.za 

Edwin
Thu, 09/05/2024 - 13:29

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Cabinet welcomes efforts to ensure water security over the next decade

Location: News

Cabinet welcomes efforts to ensure water security over the next decade

Cabinet says efforts to improve the management of existing water assets and ensure water security over the next decade has been boosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa's assent to the South African National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency SOC Ltd Bill. 

According to the Acting Minister in the Presidency, Maropene Ramokgopa, the new legislation will also see that a new agency responsible for developing and managing national water infrastructure is established.

READ | President Ramaphosa assents law advancing water security for South Africa

The plan is to also mobilise finance for new projects through innovative models to crowd in private investment.

“Cabinet welcomes the new legislation as signifying a critical step in the reform process to increase investment in the maintenance and construction of water infrastructure and improvement of water quality,” the Minister said on Thursday. 

Ramokgopa was addressing the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.

The new legislation will also enable South Africa to expand bulk water infrastructure. 

In a statement released by the Presidency last month, it explained that the law seeks to address the current fragmentation in water resource management between the Department of Water and Sanitation, the Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) and the Water Trading Entity. 

Meanwhile, Deputy President Paul Mashatile will be visiting Limpopo to assess progress achieved in various intervention projects undertaken to improve water services in the Greater Giyani Local Municipality on Friday and Saturday. 

The Deputy President will conduct the visit as Chairperson of the task team established to address water challenges in various areas of the country. 

The task team is an institutional coordinating mechanism, which brings together key role players within government to provide leadership and technical assistance towards the resolution of challenges in water services in the country. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 09/05/2024 - 12:32

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Slight GDP increase sets ‘a positive tone’ – Ramokgopa

Location: News

Slight GDP increase sets 'a positive tone' - Ramokgopa

Cabinet has called on all sectors of South Africa to build on the momentum of the slightly increased Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

This is according to Acting Minister in the Presidency Maropene Ramokgopa who briefed the media on Thursday, following a regular meeting held by Cabinet this week.

Earlier this week, Statistics South Africa reported that the economy has grown by some 0.4% during the second quarter of 2024.

“Cabinet noted the slight increase in the growth of the South African economy…which sets a positive tone for our overall economic performance for the year. South Africa’s economy remains robust and Cabinet encourages all sectors of society to build on this momentum going forward.

“When all sectors build on this momentum as a nation, we will realise the creation of more jobs and improve the living standards of all South Africans. 

“Cabinet has prioritised inclusive economic growth and job creation for the Seventh Administration and therefore existing interventions will be intensified to achieve this objective,” Ramokgopa said.

Investment and infrastructure development

Ramokgopa told the briefing that government remains focused on growing the economy, reducing unemployment and creating a more resilient investment climate.

In that regard, she said, Cabinet welcomed the launch of the R1.1 billion automotive components manufacturing facility at the Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone in KwaZulu-Natal.

“The massive investment by Toyota Tsusho Africa (Pty) Ltd and Ogihara Thailand Corporation Ltd is a vote of confidence on South Africa’s position as a formidable destination for foreign direct investment. 

“The investment also underscores the progress that has been made under the stewardship of President Cyril Ramaphosa, who has championed an investment drive that has attracted more than R1.51 trillion in investor commitments since 2018.

“South Africa’s investment appeal continues to draw catalytic investments that affirm the government’s intent to drive economic growth and create jobs,” she said.

Furthermore, Ramokgopa noted that the recently approved R17.8 billion funding from the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB) will accelerate infrastructure development in water and sanitation.

Transnet has also signed a R5 billion loan agreement with the NDB in support of the public entity’s improvement and modernisation efforts in freight rail. 

“The recently approved R17.8 billion funding…for infrastructure projects in water and sanitation will reduce infrastructure backlogs and ensure the provision of basic services to poor households.

“Cabinet expressed appreciation for the funding, which will greatly accelerate infrastructure development in our nation and contribute to improving the lives of people,” Ramakgopa noted. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 09/05/2024 - 11:45

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China looks to elevate relations with African countries

Location: News

China looks to elevate relations with African countries

President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the proposal by Chinese President Xi Jinping to elevate China’s bilateral relations with African countries which have diplomatic ties with China, to the level of strategic relations.

President Xi said that the overall characterisation of China-Africa relations should be elevated to an "all-weather China-Africa community" with a shared future for the new era.

Addressing the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing, China, President Ramaphosa said FOCAC can play an important role, as Africa works to build an integrated network of linkages between countries, within regions and across the continent.

“If we are to realise a sustainable future for Africa and China – and indeed the entire world – we must acknowledge the reality of the interdependence among our community of nations. 

“If we are to build a future that is people-centred, development-orientated and inclusive, we need to work in a spirit of cooperation and collaboration,” the President said.

WATCH | 

 

He said the fourth FOCAC Summit reflects the cooperative, comprehensive and intentional nature of the cooperation between Africa and China.

“This Summit reflects our shared desire for modernisation, development and progress on the African continent. We believe that this shared desire is reflected in the 10 partnership actions on modernisation to be taken by China and Africa, as announced by President Xi.

“Through the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, the economies of Africa are being drawn closer together. We are pursuing projects that reach across national borders. 

“We believe that FOCAC can play an important role, as Africa works to build an integrated network of linkages between countries, within regions and across the continent,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa said FOCAC is a valuable forum to support the implementation of the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

“In the name of our common humanity, we must work together to achieve the Africa we want. And we must work together to achieve the world we want,” the President said.

China has a long history of friendship and solidarity with the people of Africa. 

“Since this relationship was institutionalised through FOCAC in 2000, ties between China and Africa have continued to grow and deepen. We meet today when the world is experiencing many challenges. War and conflict continue to cause great human suffering and instability in a number of places across the world.

“Climate change is causing widespread devastation. The world is falling behind in its efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.  The global contestation for critical minerals is fuelling geopolitical rivalry,” the President said.

He said these challenges affect all nations, but are often most severely felt in Africa. 

“Yet, amid these challenges, there is hope and opportunity. We are driven by a desire to achieve shared prosperity while recognising our individual developmental aspirations,” the President said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 09/05/2024 - 06:21

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China opens market wider for African countries

Location: News

China opens market wider for African countries

Beijing, China - China will voluntarily and unilaterally open its markets wider for African countries, says President Xi Jinping.

Delivering his keynote address at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, China, Chinese President Xi said China has decided to give all least developed countries (LDCs), which have diplomatic relations with China, including 33 countries in Africa, zero-tariff treatment for 100% of tariff lines. 

“This has made China the first major developing country and the first major economy to take such a step. It will help to turn China’s big market into Africa’s big opportunity,” President Xi said.

China will expand market access for African agricultural products, deepen cooperation with Africa in e-commerce and other areas, and launch a “China-Africa quality enhancement programme."

“We are prepared to enter into framework agreements on economic partnership for shared development with African countries to provide long-term, stable and predictable institutional guarantee for trade and investment between the two sides.

“China is prepared to carry out 30 infrastructure connectivity projects in Africa, promote together high quality Belt and Road cooperation, and put in place a China-Africa network featuring land-sea links and coordinated development,” President Xi said.

China’s Belt and Road Initiative was launched in 2013 by President Xi. The massive collection of development and investment initiatives was originally devised to link East Asia and Europe through physical infrastructure. In the decade since, the project has expanded to Africa, Oceania and Latin America.

China is ready to assist in the development of the African Continental Free Trade Area, deepen logistics and financial cooperation for the benefit of trans-regional development in Africa.

In addition, China plans to launch 30 clean energy projects in Africa, put in place meteorological early warning systems, and carry out cooperation in disaster prevention, mitigation and relief, as well as biodiversity conservation. 

“We will create a China-Africa forum on peaceful use of nuclear technology, establish together 30 joint laboratories, and collaborate on satellite remote sensing and lunar and deep-space exploration. All this is designed to help with green development in Africa.

“China is ready to establish with Africa a hospital alliance and joint medical centers. We will send 2 000 medical personnel to Africa, and launch 20 programmes of health facilities and malaria treatment. 

“We will encourage Chinese companies to invest in Africa’s pharmaceutical production, and continue to do what we can to help Africa with epidemic response. We support the development of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to strengthen public health capacity in all African countries,” President Xi said.

China will provide Africa with RMB1 billion yuan in emergency food assistance, build 100 000 mu (about 6 670 hectares) of standardised agriculture demonstration areas in Africa, send 500 agricultural experts, and establish a China-Africa agricultural science and technology innovation alliance. 

“We will implement 500 programmes in Africa to promote community welfare. We will also encourage two-way investment for new business operations by Chinese and African companies, enable Africa to retain added value, and create at least one million jobs for Africa,” President Xi said.

Strengthening security

China is ready to build with Africa a partnership for implementing the Global Security Initiative (GSI) and make it a fine example of GSI cooperation. 

“We will give Africa RMB1 billion yuan of grants in military assistance, provide training for 6 000 military personnel and 1 000 police and law enforcement officers from Africa, and invite 500 young African military officers to visit China. 

"The two sides will conduct joint military exercises, training and patrol... and jointly ensure the safety of personnel and projects.

“To implement the 10 partnership actions, the Chinese government will provide RMB360 billion yuan of financial support through the next three years,” the President said.

This can be broken down into RMB210 billion yuan of credit line, RMB80 billion yuan of assistance in various forms, and at least RMB70 billion yuan of investment in Africa by Chinese companies. 

In addition, China will encourage and support Africa in issuing panda bonds (a Chinese renminbi-denominated bond from a non-Chinese issuer, sold in the People's Republic of China) in China to enhance results-oriented cooperation in all areas.

“China is ready to work with Africa to build a platform for governance experience sharing, a China-Africa knowledge network for development, and 25 centers on China and Africa studies. 

"We will make better use of Africa’s leadership academies to cultivate talents for governance and invite 1 000 members of African political parties to China to deepen exchanges of experience in party and state governance,” President Xi said. -SAnews.gov.za

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Thu, 09/05/2024 - 07:03

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Police Committee Continues Deliberations on Latest Crime Statistics

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Police today further deliberated on the quarterly crime statistics for the fourth quarter of the 2023/24 financial year and the first quarter of this financial year.

The Minister of Police, Mr Senzo Mchunu, released the quarterly crime statistics last week. Mr Mchunu attended the meeting with his deputy ministers, Mr Cassel Mathale and Ms Polly Boshielo.

In his opening remarks, Committee Chairperson Mr Ian Cameron said that today's deliberations provided an opportunity to engage in a critical and in-depth analysis of the statistics. “These statistics provide a stark reflection of the challenges we face in ensuring the safety and security of South Africa,” he said.

Major-General Norman Sekhukhune presented the statistics and told the committee that there was an increase in contact crimes over the two quarters, with 171 707 crimes reported in the fourth quarter – an increase of 4.6%. The South African Police Service (SAPS) recorded 153 637 contact crimes during the first quarter of this financial year, an increase of 2.6% compared to the same period last year, the statistics show.

Some committee members also flagged the statistics on crimes against women and children as particularly concerning. The statistics show that although the overall number of women murdered in 2023/24 is lower than 2022/23 (a decrease of 1.92%), the significant increase of 7.9% in the first quarter of 2024/25 compared to the first quarter of 2023/24 is concerning. According to SAPS' statistics, 966 women were murdered during the first quarter of 2024/25, 1 644 murders were attempted against women, and 13 757 women were assaulted with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm. In 2023/24, 24 942 women were murdered, which is significantly higher than in 2021/22 (9.1% increase). Also, in the first quarter of 2024/25, 314 children were murdered, 424 murders against children were attempted, and 1 596 children were assaulted with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

One committee member, Ms Molebogeng Letlape, said the statistics do not present anything new as the numbers from previous quarters show that these crimes – murder and rape – continue to happen in the same areas as before. Ms Letlape asked the SAPS delegation what strategies and measures are in place to address this. “In terms of resources, in terms of crime intelligence, in terms of data collection – what are the measures and strategies that [you] have in place to ensure that there is a decrease in murders, rape and other crimes so that when we come back for the next quarterly report, we don't find ourselves in the same situation?” she asked.

Ms Letlape said it is alarming that despite all the efforts and the budgets made available, improvement remains lacklustre. She also said that of those murdered, over 1 000 are women and are exposed to crime, to murder and rape on a daily basis.

Another committee member, Ms Lise-Mare Schickerling, reminded the meeting attendees that the chilling statistics on rape mean that there is a high probability that one of the women in the (meeting) room could be the next victim of rape.

The acting National Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Tobello Mosikili, said figures showing arrests of gang members, rapists and extortionists indicate that communities' cries are not falling on deaf ears. She said SAPS' focus remains on serious crime, such as murder, gender-based violence and extortion, among others, and will continue to receive the necessary attention.

Committee members also raised concern over the state of some police stations, which are in serious disrepair and are not conducive to quality policing. Others raised concerns over the lack of crime intelligence and limited resources, such as police vehicles, which hamper crime fighting efforts. Given that resources are scarce, Mr Cameron stressed the need for an integrated strategy where both SAPS and the National Prosecuting Authority work towards common goals, “streamlining efforts to ensure that cases are effectively investigated, prosecuted, and brought to a successful conclusion”, he said. “Only through such collaboration can we hope to restore trust in our justice system and provide the safety and security that the people of South Africa deserve,” Mr Cameron said.

Minister Mchunu acknowledged that although crime is coming down, more should be done. He assured the committee that plans are in place and support to SAPS management will continue. “We are working on turnaround times. We need to improve that. We just need a little bit of time,” he said. “We don't expect these numbers to persist. It will go down,” he assured members.

The minister also conceded that crime intelligence is a major worry, especially in terms of capacity (numbers, technology and skills). He reminded the committee that crime intelligence has been hollowed out over the years and improving the situation will take time.

Lieutenant-General Mosikili, in turn, reminded the committee that scarce resources are a challenge across the board. She acknowledged poor maintenance of police stations as a challenge but said SAPS is working with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to attend to this.

Mr Cameron thanked the delegation. “As we work together to protect our communities, we must remember that our ultimate goal is to build a safer, more just South Africa for all. We cannot and dare not fail,” he said.

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

Read morePolice Committee Continues Deliberations on Latest Crime Statistics

CleverLMS Continues to Improve User Experience by Introducing Offline Mode for TaskHub

Location: MyPR

CleverLMS is excited to announce the latest enhancement to our platform: the Offline TaskHub feature. This new functionality allows users to continue their workflow seamlessly, even without an internet connection. Report data that employees wish to send is fully saved in a draft if the internet connection is lost, and it is automatically sent for …

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Budget cuts threaten addressing the education sector challenges definitively

Location: MyPR

Budget cuts threaten addressing the education sector challenges definitively As South Africa continues to plot its new political discourse under the Government of National Unity, education has been identified as a critical focal area where key reforms will lead to future economic growth. However, barely three months after the establishment of the GNU and the …

Read moreBudget cuts threaten addressing the education sector challenges definitively