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“The future of cinema is IMAX and the large formats. The audience wants to see something that they cannot have at home, that they cannot have on streaming. They want to experience an event… It’s a tremendous art form that needs to be experienced in theatres.” – Filmmaker Denis Villeneuve The launch of the much-anticipated …
February is a time when hearts are in the spotlight. It is a time earmarked for raising awareness on congenital heart disease (CHD). According to studies it’s classified as the most common type of birth defect1,2 with up to 3.12 million babies born with CHD in 20193. To commemorate the annual CHD calendar awareness week, …
Following the recent announcement of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series’ unprecedented, combined Prize Purse of R 1,560,000.00 in 2024, Stillwater Sports, the organisers of South Africa’s acclaimed road running series, have also unveiled an impressive “SA Athlete Prize Incentive Schedule” for the 2024 edition of the series. The “SA Athlete Prize Incentive Schedule” is …
JOHANNESBURG: It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that Cricket South Africa (CSA) mourns the passing of Shaun George, a...
A planned shutdown of the Eastern Cape town was thwarted by police
Government congratulates Sibusiso Ngalwa on Africa Editors Forum appointment
The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) has congratulated Sibusiso Ngalwa who is the current Chairperson of the South African National Editors Forum on his appointment to the Executive Committee of the Africa Editors Forum.
In a statement on Thursday, the GCIS said this appointment is particularly important as the media sector is facing a variety of challenges such as fake news and declining revenues.
The editor’s forum is an expression of the need for editors and all media practitioners on the continent to work together towards preserving journalism and promoting media freedom.
The Africa Editors Forum plays a crucial role in fostering dialogue among media professionals and addressing challenges faced by the media industry across the African continent. The department added that it recognises the significant contributions made by SANEF in upholding press freedom, ethical journalism, and media diversity in South Africa.
GCIS Acting Director-General, Nomonde Mnukwa said: “We believe that the involvement of Mr Ngalwa in the Africa Editors Forum Executive Committee will undoubtedly enhance the forum's efforts in promoting values of media freedom on a broader scale and fostering collaboration among African media organisations.
“We also acknowledge the importance of a free and responsible press in any thriving democracy. Therefore, Mr Ngalwa’s appointment is a recognition of the SANEF professionalism and commitment to journalistic principles.” – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 02/23/2024 - 09:24
Hope is on the horizon despite South Africa’s economic challenges The nation’s eyes and ears will be focused on Cape Town today as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana presents the 2024 National Budget. It is no secret that South Africa faces a challenging economic climate where austerity is the phrase most commonly used during the Budget. …
JOHANNESBURG: The stage is set for the inaugural International Masters Cricket Over-40s World Cup, scheduled to commence on Monday, 19...
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) mourns the passing of Mike Procter, one of the game’s greatest all-rounders, who has died...
JOHANNESBURG: Blind Cricket South Africa (BCSA) has announced the squad to face New Zealand Blind Cricket in the upcoming series...
Accessing accurate public information
By Zanele Mngadi
Through social media apps, websites, and other digital tools, the internet gives us a lot of ways to connect with each other. This makes information easy to find.
However, the ease with which we get information online makes it hard to determine how true it is. The COVID-19 pandemic is a great example of this challenge because knowledge spread very quickly through our phones and social media sites.
During this dark time, scary fake news spread very quickly, making it harder for people to get the right information and stay safe, which was bad for their health and made them less likely to trust others.
In order to fight fake news, the South African government set up many ways for people to easily get true and accurate information. This included the SA Coronavirus website, social media accounts, and regular updates for the whole country.
Lessons from the pandemic
Because of the pandemic, government learned that giving people easy access to reliable information gave them the tools they needed to make smart choices about how to protect their health.
Building on the success of spreading information widely during COVID-19, government has adopted a multi-media approach that uses all forms of media to give South Africans more power by giving them accurate information about problems facing the country, the government's solutions, and programmes meant to bring about change.
Government just recently set up two WhatsApp channels, governmentza and the PresidencyZA, that people can follow to get regular updates on things that affect everyone, like chances for legal education and work.
This adds to government’s social media platform GovernmentZA, which lets people get true information right away and talk to the government directly. People should follow these social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, WhatsApp, X, and YouTube, as well as government websites like https://www.gov.za, https://www.gcis.gov.za/, and https://www.thepresidency.gov.za/, to get accurate news about issues that affect the whole country.
The GCIS also has its own in-house news agency, SAnews (https://www.sanews.gov.za/) which provides regular news updates on matters of public concern, at no cost. In addition the GCIS launched a podcast, Vuk Talks to give people more access to information about government programmes. It’s on YouTube and Spotify.
Our online presence adapts to the changing needs of our citizens, but we also make sure that people who don’t have access to the internet can still get information.
The government tries to get accurate and reliable news to millions of people in rural areas and townships. Over the years Vuk’uzenzele newspaper has touched the lives of many people. It also brought the government to closer to the people through Izimbizo and partnerships with local community radio stations. From April 2024 on, the newspaper will only be available online, but its articles will still be useful to everyone in South Africa. We have also partnered with SABC 2 on the 13-part series Citizens Connect in an attempt to educate more citizens.
The value of accurate information
All of these online platforms let people to easily get reliable information directly from the government about their lives, our country, and the world we live in. Reliable information is essential to make democracy work. The opposite is equally true: inaccurate information, often a result of fake news, can be dangerous to democracy, especially during big national events such as elections.
As the seventh national and provincial elections get closer, people are being warned to be careful of fake news online, especially since new technologies make it hard to tell the difference between fact and fiction.
With the rise of deep fake content, fake content can seem credible. Dishonest people use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to make fake videos, pictures, and audio recordings of other people. Public figures, such as our political leaders, are often the targets of these attacks.
Be vigilant at all times
Government urges every citizen to be wary of falling victim to fake news. Pay close attention to face features and lip movements that don’t match up on videos because that can be a sign of deep fake content. If in doubt, verify the information you receive via trustworthy information sources (such as government platforms). That’s how you can learn the truth and make smart decisions about your future.
If you use social media and websites as sources of information, make sure that they are real. It’s easy to miss fake accounts or profiles because their names sound a lot like real ones. So, double-check the writing of the profiles and websites you follow.
Every South African needs to make sure that the news they spread comes from reliable sources. Let’s all stay alert all times to avoid being duped by fake news. Let’s all play our part to make our democracy strong. Let’s fight disinformation.
*Zanele Mngadi is Chief Director: Products and Platforms at the GCIS
Janine
Wed, 02/21/2024 - 10:38
The Met: Live in HD, the Metropolitan Opera’s award-winning series of live high-definition cinema simulcasts, is into its 17th season exclusively at select Ster-Kinekor and Cinema Nouveau cinemas. Still to come in the 2023–24 Live in HD season are new productions of Bizet’s Carmen and Verdi’s La Forza del Destino; and revivals of Gounod’s Roméo …
Celebrating its second anniversary in the friendly city on Sunday 07 April 2024, all entrants of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K will have the exciting chance to win a brand-new Chery Tiggo 4 Pro LiT Vehicle valued from R279 000. “We are thrilled to announce that every participant in the Absa RUN YOUR …
Stillwater Sports, the team behind South Africa’s acclaimed road running series, is thrilled to reveal that the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series will boast an impressive, combined Prize Purse of R 1,560,000.00 in 2024. Transforming the landscape of road running since its inception in 2015, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series comprises five mass participation …
The latest collection brings together iced coffees, accessories and trendy recipes for a summer inspired experience that ignites the taste buds Nespresso is embracing the South African season of sunshine and warmth with a refreshing Californian Dream inspired experience. With a lineup of delicious coffees crafted to be enjoyed over ice, beautifully designed accessories and …
HONOR just launched its new X9b 5G smartphone in South Africa, which offers a bunch of flagship features such as its impressive 6.78-inch display, 108MP camera, and high-end performance. HONOR provided MyBroadband with the X9b 5G to unbox and test – and this was our experience. From: Business Tech CLICK HERE to submit a Video …
In today’s crowded digital landscape, visibility is key for businesses of all sizes. While major publications and directories have their place, niche industry-focused publications can offer unique advantages and be essential for targeting specific audiences. Let’s explore why getting mentioned or listed in these publications can be a valuable growth strategy. Reach the Right Audience: …
Introduction As we venture into 2024, the landscape of Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Staying abreast of the latest trends, algorithm updates, and best practices is more crucial than ever for businesses and marketers aiming to maintain and enhance their online visibility. With search engines becoming increasingly sophisticated, a …
JOHANNESBURG: The highly-contested domestic red-ball season returns on Wednesday, 14 February 2024 as Division 1 teams are back in action...
Honouring radio broadcasters on World Radio Day
As government joins the global community in celebrating World Radio Day, it has also recognised the invaluable contributions of broadcasters, journalists, and producers who work tirelessly in radio to bring quality programming each day.
“Together, let us continue to support and nurture this timeless medium as we strive to build a more inclusive, informed, and enlightened society for all South Africans. Happy World Radio Day,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said.
World Radio Day is being celebrated on Tuesday under the theme, "Radio: A Century Informing, Entertaining, and Educating”.
This year’s theme underscores the rich history and diverse contribution of radio to society.
“Radio remains a reliable source of information and a catalyst for positive change. It has also been a constant companion to millions of South Africans, providing them with essential news, entertainment, and valuable educational content. Importantly, the affordability and accessibility of radio makes it an essential medium, particularly in remote and disadvantaged communities," GCIS Acting Director-General, Nomonde Mnukwa, said.
For over a century, radio has played a pivotal role in informing, entertaining, and educating societies and it has been a critical tool for communication, connecting people across vast distances and diverse cultures.
“Its ability to transcend barriers of language and geography makes it a powerful instrument for promoting inclusivity and fostering unity among the country's diverse communities.
“In South Africa, radio has historically been a cornerstone of democracy, serving as a platform for dialogue, debate, and the exchange of ideas. It has played a crucial role in promoting social cohesion, advancing human rights, and amplifying the voices of marginalised groups,” the GCIS said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 02/13/2024 - 09:42
Today (13 February 2024), Government joins the global community in celebrating World Radio Day under the theme, "Radio: A Century Informing, Entertaining, and Educating”. This year's theme underscores the rich history and diverse contribution of radio to our society.
For over a century, radio has played a pivotal role in informing, entertaining, and educating societies and it has been a critical tool for communication, connecting people across vast distances and diverse cultures. Its ability to transcend barriers of language and geography makes it a powerful instrument for promoting inclusivity and fostering unity among the country's diverse communities.
In South Africa, radio has historically been a cornerstone of democracy, serving as a platform for dialogue, debate, and the exchange of ideas. It has played a crucial role in promoting social cohesion, advancing human rights, and amplifying the voices of marginalised groups.
The GCIS Acting Diretor-General, Nomonde Mnukwa said: “Radio remains a reliable source of information and a catalyst for positive change. It has also been a constant companion to millions of South Africans, providing them with essential news, entertainment, and valuable educational content. Importantly, the affordability and accessibility of radio makes it an essential medium, particularly in remote and disadvantaged communities."
As the world celebrates World Radio Day, Government also recognises the invaluable contributions of broadcasters, journalists, and producers who work tirelessly to bring quality programming each day.
Together, let us continue to support and nurture this timeless medium as we strive to build a more inclusive, informed, and enlightened society for all South Africans.
Happy World Radio Day!
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of Communications and Digital Technologies.
Your “hot date” may be a hotline to becoming a scam victim: Technology has disrupted many aspects of traditional life. When you are sitting at dinner and seeing a couple going out on a “first date”, consider that this may be their first in-person date and that they have been interacting (dating) online for months. According …
Up to 100 students to receive mentorship from industry experts representing established news agencies and news publications, as well as Canon Ambassadors (www.Canon-CNA.com); A shortlist of 25 students will be invited to take part in a four-day workshop in Girona, including a visit to Visa pour l'Image, where they can form new connections with professionals and peers; Applications are being accepted between 12th February and 7th March to students across Europe, Middle East and Africai.
Canon Europe announces the call for entries for the eighth edition of the Canon Student Development Programme (CSDP), a prestigious annual programme designed to help aspiring photojournalists advance their careers. The industry-leading initiative offers access and exposure to experienced professionals from the photographic community and the opportunity to attend key industry events.
CSDP has established itself as an invaluable springboard to the next generation of photojournalists. Former alumni have gone on to work for reputable news agencies and internationally renowned publications and continued to build successful careers. 2022 alumni Mohamed Mahdy (b. 1996), whose work focusses on the hidden and often unseen communities in Egypt, has won a main prize at the 2023 World Press Photo awards in the Open Format category. Fellow alumni Alexandra Corcode (b. 2000) has been selected for the 2023 Tom Stoddard Award for Excellence with her intimate portrayal of loneliness and abandonment amongst the elderly generation in her home country of Romania. Finalists of the 2023 programme, Ebrahim Alipoor and Fatma Fahmy, have both been selected for the 2024 VII Mentor program, run by VII Academy.
The 2024 edition is open to students and internsi residing and studying in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, with applications running from February 12th until March 7th. A limited number of spaces will also be available to talent endorsed by industry professionals. Submissions will be judged by a panel of editors from Getty Images, Reuters Pictures, AFP and EPA who will decide on the initial cohort of the region's most promising young storytellers.
One-to-one mentorships
The selected students will be partnered up with one of the programme's expert mentors, with the aim to discuss their current work and longer-term career aspirations in dedicated one-to-one sessions. Virtual reviews throughout summer will help refine their new project proposal and current portfolio – with a particular focus on exploring different editing options and ways to further strengthen narrative skills and develop authorial signatures.
Canon Ambassador and photojournalist, Brent Stirton said, “This is a unique programme to meet and spend time with curators, editors and photographers – a real investment into the future of photography. Stats show that only a fraction of those who study photography survive in the profession long term, and I know that it will make a profound difference for those selected. Growing up in South Africa, there was no way that I could've accessed some of the best editors and photographers in the world when I was starting out, much less borrowing some of the best gear out there.”
Girona workshop and Visa pour l'Image in Perpignan, France
In September, up to 25 students will be invited to a four-day Canon workshop in a grand Catalan farmhouse in Girona, Spain, concluding with a final night's stay at the Visa pour l'Image international photojournalism festival in Perpignan, France.
The workshop will offer an intimate forum to exchange ideas and build relationships with renowned professionals from the world of photography. Group portfolio reviews offer a rich learning opportunity for students and a chance to both critique the work of their fellow peers, as well as receive professional feedback on their own.
Aside from taking in the key exhibitions and evening screenings during Visa pour l'Image, students will also have the opportunity to participate in additional portfolio reviews and further expand their network.
To apply to be a part of the 2024 Canon Student Development Programme or view the entry criteria, please visit: https://apo-opa.co/3UFOaxZ
Footnotes:
[i] For full terms and conditions, please go to this page: https://apo-opa.co/3SxqRUx
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).
Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com
APO Group - PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com
About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon's business within the Africa region - by strengthening Canon's in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon's commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.
Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa's rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.
Canon's corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.co/3SvVhrS) – ‘living and working together for the common good'. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon's products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.
For more information: www.Canon-CNA.com
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has announced the teams and squads in the upcoming Rural Weeks for inland and coastal...