Court Criticises PRASA for Illegal Evictions
Ndifuna Ukwazi’s urgent application for interdict on behalf of Foreshore land occupiers continues
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Season Two of NBA Africa’s “Born & Bred” Original Content Series Featuring Raptors’ Ulrich Chomche and Jazz’s Babacar Sané Premieres on the NBA App
Second Season Tells the Stories of Five Current and Former NBA Academy Africa (www.NBA.com) Prospects from Cameroon, Central African Republic, Egypt and Senegal; All Five Episodes Will Be Available on the NBA App with One Episode Releasing Weekly Throughout September.
NBA Africa announced the return of its first original documentary series “Born & Bred” which will premiere its second season on the NBA App today. The docuseries returns with five episodes telling the stories of current and former NBA Academy Africa student athletes from Cameroon, Central African Republic, Egypt and Senegal as they pursue their basketball dreams at the academy and beyond.
Season two of “Born & Bred” features the first NBA Academy Africa prospect drafted to the NBA Ulrich Chomche (Toronto Raptors; Cameroon), former NBA G League Ignite players Babacar Sané (Utah Jazz; Senegal) and Thierry Darlan (Central African Republic), and current NBA Academy Africa prospects Ali Assran (Egypt) and Modou Fall Thiam (Senegal).
Chomche became the first prospect from one of the three NBA Academies around the world to be drafted directly to the NBA when he was selected 57th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies and traded to the Toronto Raptors in the 2024 NBA Draft. During his time at NBA Academy Africa, he was named the Defensive Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the 2022 Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Africa camp and participated in the Basketball Africa League's (BAL) Elevate program, representing Rwanda Energy Group Basketball Club (REG BBC) in 2023 and Cameroon's Forces Armées et Police in 2022.
The first episode, “Small Village. Big Dreams”, features Chomche and is available to watch today on the NBA App. All five episodes will be available to stream on the NBA App, with one episode releasing each week throughout September.
Descriptions of each season two “Born & Bred” episode are included below:
- Episode 1 (Aug. 29): “Small Village. Big Dreams” features Ulrich Chomche, an 18-year-old forward from Bafang, Cameroon, who is set to make his NBA debut later this year during the 2024-25 NBA season. Chomche joined NBA Academy Africa in 2019. He represented Team World at the 2024 Nike Hoop Summit in Portland, Oregon in April, before declaring for the 2024 NBA Draft. He became the seventh Cameroonian to be drafted, joining Ruben Boumtje-Boumtje (NBA Draft 2001), Luc Mbah a Moute (NBA Draft 2008), seven-time NBA All-Star and 2022-23 Kia NBA MVP Joel Embiid (NBA Draft 2014), two-time NBA All-Star Pascal Siakam (NBA Draft 2016), Christian Koloko (NBA Draft 2022) and Yves Missi (NBA Draft 2024).
- Episode 2 (Sept. 5): “Birth of Young Ossoko” features Babacar Sané, a 20-year-old forward from Ziguinchor, Senegal. Following his breakthrough performances during the BAL's second season, he spent two years with NBA G League Ignite, before going undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft and signing with the Jazz earlier this month.
- Episode 3 (Sept. 12): “Breaking Ground” features Ali Assran, a 17-year-old forward from Cairo, Egypt. Assran represented the U17 Egyptian national team at the 2024 FIBA Basketball World Cup and joined the NBA Academy Africa in 2023. The episode follows him as he continues to discover his passion for basketball while channeling his struggles into determination and finding solace on the court.
- Episode 4 (Sept. 19): “The Quiet Leader” features Modou Fall Thiam, a 19-year-old from Senegal who joined NBA Academy Africa in 2023. Hailing from Yeumbeul, the athletic dunker faced an early injury which saw the young point guard sidelined in his second year at the academy. Thiam details his journey of playing in several international tournaments, participating in the BAL's third season as a BAL Elevate member of Nigeria's Kwara Falcons, and the adversity of dealing with an injury as a young athlete.
- Episode 5 (Sept. 26): “Against All Odds” features Thierry Darlan, who as a 20-year-old guard from Bangui, Central African Republic became the sixth NBA Academy graduate and third from the NBA Academy Africa to sign with NBA G League Ignite. Named the MVP of the 2022 BWB Africa camp in Egypt, Darlan also led the academy team to a championship at the NBA Academy Games in Atlanta, Georgia the same year. Following his BAL debut with Angola's Petro de Luanda in 2022 as part of the BAL Elevate program, Darlan returned to the BAL in 2024, making his professional debut during the Nile Conference for Central African Republic's Bangui Sporting Club.
“Born & Bred” season one (https://apo-opa.co/4e2kQbl) premiered on the NBA App last November, featuring current and former NBA Academy Africa prospects Nigeria's Rueben Chinyelu, Egypt's Seifeldin Hendawy, South Sudan's Khaman Maluach, Senegal's Khadim Rassoul Mboup, and Angola's Aginaldo Neto, spotlighting each prospect's basketball journey, including the communities where they were raised and the moments that have shaped them as players and young men.
NBA Academy Africa is an elite basketball training center in Saly, Senegal for the top high-school-age prospects from across Africa and the first of its kind on the continent. Since its launch in 2017, more than 40 male and female participants have committed to NCAA Division I schools in the U.S. or signed professional contracts.
The NBA App is free to download here (https://apo-opa.co/3T9WrZA).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Basketball Association (NBA).
Contact:
Chumani Bambani
NBA Africa Communications
cbambani@nba.com
+27 65 548 1031
About NBA Africa:
NBA Africa is an affiliate of the National Basketball Association (NBA), a global sports and media organization with the mission to inspire and connect people everywhere through the power of basketball. NBA Africa conducts the league's business in Africa, including the Basketball Africa League (BAL), and has opened subsidiary offices in Cairo, Egypt; Dakar, Senegal; Johannesburg, South Africa; Lagos, Nigeria; and Nairobi, Kenya. The league's efforts on the continent have focused on increasing access to basketball and the NBA through youth and elite development, social responsibility, media distribution, corporate partnerships, NBA Africa Games, NBA Stores, the BAL, and more.
NBA games and programming are available in all 54 African countries, and the NBA has hosted three sold-out exhibition games on the continent since 2015. The BAL, a partnership between the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and NBA Africa, is a professional league featuring 12 club teams from across Africa that concluded its fourth season in June 2024. Fans can follow @ NBA_Africa and @ theBAL on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.
Call to place young people in critical infrastructure projects
Call to place young people in critical infrastructure projects
Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has emphasised that every project, from ideation to implementation, must include the upskilling, reskilling, and placement of young people, through emerging industrialist apprenticeships.
Chikunga was speaking at the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI) learning event on youth unemployment crisis and gender equity.
“The country is currently facing a situation where serious infrastructure projects, from small harbours development, rail, road, and rural bridge construction to human settlements projects, water sanitation projects, and energy, are in [the] pipeline. It is about time that we insist that no labour is imported for these projects while unemployed graduates are sitting at home,” Chikunga said at Thursday’s event.
Putting in place sustainable interventions
Chikunga underscored a need for strategies to cultivate all of the country’s resources in a coherent and purposeful effort and put forward interventions that can be sustained into the future.
The Minister argued that South Africa cannot have youth hopping from one learnership to another, and from one internship to another.
She emphasised the need for an emerging industrialist programme that reaches every corner of the country.
“These interventions should, in line with our DDM (District Development Model), be implemented at national, provincial and local levels by government, parastatals, organisations within civil society and the private sector working within the framework of reconstruction and development.
“In order to respond in a more purposeful way, we are called upon to transcend traditional boundaries and do away with siloed interventions and adopt a more integrated and coordinated approach,” Chikunga said at the gathering held in Sandton, Johannesburg.
According to the Minister, a lack of industrial dynamism, youth unemployment, the high cost of living, economic inactivity, violent crime, and a lack of social cohesion, are all multidimensional challenges that require what economists refer to as a “Mission-Oriented Approach” to development.
“We are required to set ambitious goals; foster creative public-private collaborations; approach the state as a patient investor-of first resort; and develop dynamic capabilities to adapt and steer the mission as it evolves.
“The NYDA, for example, must be transformed into a capability that is able to gather market and economic intelligence about the future of industry and work; identify emerging strategic opportunities; measure (cross sectoral) impact of policies; enhance our ability to spot risks/opportunities; increase our ability to anticipate and adapt; and support new agents of systemic socio-economic change.”
Research capability
She also challenged the NYDA to have a well-resourced research capability that is able to provide situational awareness.
“[The NYDA] must address the questions such as: in light of the youth question, where are we, where should we be going, and what is likely to get in our way [both threats and opportunities], as we navigate to that collectively desired destination.
“What adjustments, if any, do we need to make to deal with the threats and make the most of opportunities? Through knowledge management, we must be able to anticipate, respond, and navigate uncertainties and potential crises,” Chikunga said.
In efforts to attract manufacturing, promote beneficiation and drive industrialisation, Chikunga stressed a need to ensure that women and youth have access to land for agricultural purposes and related value chains. She also stressed the need for an emerging industrialist fund to turn young people’s ideas and innovation into productive economic activities.
She also spoke of a need to engage with all unemployed graduates, listening to their experiences, understanding their needs, and working with them to pursue sustainable opportunities; as well as a need for a cap on the minerals that leave as unprocessed rocks.
‘We need to leverage public procurement to provide off-take for youth and women owned business. We can only do this if we leverage our convening powers as government,” Chikunga said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 08/29/2024 - 13:52
281 views
Visa applicants to receive outcomes of visa waiver applications digitally
Visa applicants to receive outcomes of visa waiver applications digitally
In an important first step towards the digital transformation of the Department of Home Affairs, Minister of Home Affairs Dr Leon Schreiber has instituted a new rule to deliver the outcomes of visa waiver applications digitally via email to applicants.
In the first phase of the rollout of this process, the outcome of waiver applications for holders of Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEPs) will be sent digitally, effective immediately.
Over time, the digital-first approach will be extended to other applicants in the visa and permit regime.
This means that applicants will no longer be required to visit a VFS Global office to collect physical, paper-based copies of the waiver letters.
Instead, starting from today with ZEP holders and later all, applicants will conveniently receive digital waiver letters, in PDF format, through email. These digital letters can be used to submit a mainstream visa application going forward.
“While this step on its own may be a small one, it is still meaningful as part of our larger quest to clamp down on corruption and to enhance efficiency of services by transforming Home Affairs into a digital-first department.
“This simple embrace of a digital-first approach to processing waivers has also significantly accelerated our work to clear the permitting backlog that dates back a decade, which started out at over 306 000 unprocessed applications.
“Through this change, we have been able to effectively process 60 582 outstanding ZEP waiver applications, many of which date back to 2022.
“Another 22 529 ZEP waiver applications are set to be processed soon, further reducing the backlog and freeing up valuable resources in a department that has been financially gutted to the point of only having 40% of the staff resources. This step illustrates our absolute determination to use technology to do more with the little we have,” the Minister said.
Applicants who still prefer to collect hardcopies of ZEP waiver letters at branches will still be able to do so.
The department said applicants should not be doubtful when they receive an outcome digitally via email from the following official addresses: No-reply1.dhasa@vfshelpline.com; No-reply2.dhasa@vfshelpline.com; No-reply3.dhasa@vfshelpline.com; No-reply4.dhasa@vfshelpline.com; No-reply5.dhasa@vfshelpline.com; No-reply6.dhasa@vfshelpline.com - SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 08/29/2024 - 15:16
206 views
Government remains committed to establishing Sovereign Wealth Fund
Government remains committed to establishing Sovereign Wealth Fund
President Cyril Ramaphosa says government remains committed to creating a Sovereign Wealth Fund which will benefit future generations, however, the conditions do not currently exist to establish an immediate one.
The President was responding to questions for oral reply in the National Assembly in Parliament, Cape Town on Thursday. This was his first such session under the Government of National Unity.
Member of Parliament Joseph Maswanganyi asked President Ramaphosa how government will develop the Sovereign Wealth Fund and ensure that its development benefits the majority of the people of the Republic.
“We are committed to create a Sovereign Wealth Fund and we believe that the architecture that we are putting together now will be able to assist us in building a Sovereign Wealth Fund. This we will be doing for future generations because it takes quite a while to build a facility like a Sovereign World Fund.
“While conditions do not currently exist for the immediate establishment of a Sovereign Wealth Fund, this is an objective which we should continue to work towards. Such a fund could help to ensure that the national wealth of our country is effectively used to support economic and social development for years to come,” the President said.
On whether the fund will benefit the majority of the people of South Africa, President Ramaphosa said the fund is meant to achieve precisely that purpose.
“The Sovereign Wealth Fund should be seen as a contributor to economic development and as a vehicle through which the state can invest money that is in surplus and can be utilised for various economic projects. It could be specific economic sectors that it focuses on and could also be funding, or surplus money utilised to invest in other countries and companies.
“The fund in my view is the way to go and we now have better architectural opportunity to be able to do so rather than just to continue talking about it without knowing exactly how it will source money and how it will be structured.
“Setting up a Sovereign Wealth Fund is a project we will work on as we improve our state-owned enterprises (SOEs),” the President said.
Explaining how the Sovereign Wealth Fund will work, he said they are by nature often used by many countries across the world to harness national resources for economic as well as for social development.
He added that they are often used to preserve and to grow a country's wealth for the benefit of future generations.
A document published in December of 2021 by the National Treasury described some of the features of a Sovereign Wealth Fund, saying that such a fund is often a state-owned company that would accumulate resources for capital investment through a dedicated revenue instrument or instruments.
“It will then invest these resources in different asset classes. Countries with Sovereign Wealth Funds - there is quite a number of them around the world - often maintain surpluses in their current accounts and balance sheets or balances, this provides the fiscal space to establish a Sovereign Wealth Fund.
“At present, with our current fiscal position, with substantial current accounts and budget deficits it is currently not the most opportune or favourable time for us to establish the fund, however, there are a number of options that are under consideration,” the President said.
He emphasised that funding for service delivery remains under pressure, with additional resources required to improve the recruitment of key personnel such as police and teachers.
He said that the country also needs to increase investment in the maintenance of basic service infrastructure.
“In light of these realities, the most appropriated policy path for us is to use any additional resources at this moment to reduce the debt burden that our country carries and improve the delivery of services.
Among other questions, the President also briefed Parliament on steps government is taking to encourage private sector investment to improve ports, railways and other infrastructure to drive economic growth. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 08/29/2024 - 15:25
335 views
Government remains committed to establish a Sovereign Wealth Fund
Government remains committed to establish a Sovereign Wealth Fund
President Cyril Ramaphosa says government remains committed to creating a Sovereign Wealth Fund which will benefit future generations, however, the conditions do not currently exist to establish an immediate one.
The President was responding to questions for oral reply in the National Assembly in Parliament, Cape Town on Thursday. This was his first such session under the Government of National Unity.
Member of Parliament Joseph Maswanganyi asked President Ramaphosa how government will develop the Sovereign Wealth Fund and ensure that its development benefits the majority of the people of the Republic.
“We are committed to create a Sovereign Wealth Fund and we believe that the architecture that we are putting together now will be able to assist us in building a Sovereign Wealth Fund. This we will be doing for future generations because it takes quite a while to build a facility like a Sovereign World Fund.
“While conditions do not currently exist for the immediate establishment of a Sovereign Wealth Fund, this is an objective which we should continue to work towards. Such a fund could help to ensure that the national wealth of our country is effectively used to support economic and social development for years to come,” the President said.
On whether the fund will benefit the majority of the people of South Africa, President Ramaphosa said the fund is meant to achieve precisely that purpose.
“The Sovereign Wealth Fund should be seen as a contributor to economic development and as a vehicle through which the state can invest money that is in surplus and can be utilised for various economic projects. It could be specific economic sectors that it focuses on and could also be funding, or surplus money utilised to invest in other countries and companies.
“The fund in my view is the way to go and we now have better architectural opportunity to be able to do so rather than just to continue talking about it without knowing exactly how it will source money and how it will be structured.
“Setting up a Sovereign Wealth Fund is a project we will work on as we improve our state-owned enterprises (SOEs),” the President said.
Explaining how the Sovereign Wealth Fund will work, he said they are by nature often used by many countries across the world to harness national resources for economic as well as for social development.
He added that they are often used to preserve and to grow a country's wealth for the benefit of future generations.
A document published in December of 2021 by the National Treasury described some of the features of a Sovereign Wealth Fund, saying that such a fund is often a state-owned company that would accumulate resources for capital investment through a dedicated revenue instrument or instruments.
“It will then invest these resources in different asset classes. Countries with Sovereign Wealth Funds - there is quite a number of them around the world - often maintain surpluses in their current accounts and balance sheets or balances, this provides the fiscal space to establish a Sovereign Wealth Fund.
“At present, with our current fiscal position, with substantial current accounts and budget deficits it is currently not the most opportune or favourable time for us to establish the fund, however, there are a number of options that are under consideration,” the President said.
He emphasised that funding for service delivery remains under pressure, with additional resources required to improve the recruitment of key personnel such as police and teachers.
He said that the country also needs to increase investment in the maintenance of basic service infrastructure.
“In light of these realities, the most appropriated policy path for us is to use any additional resources at this moment to reduce the debt burden that our country carries and improve the delivery of services.
Among other questions, the President also briefed Parliament on steps government is taking to encourage private sector investment to improve ports, railways and other infrastructure to drive economic growth. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 08/29/2024 - 15:25
77 views
Competition Commission Briefs Health Committee on Health Market Inquiry
The Portfolio Committee on Health met to discuss the findings of the Competition Commission's Health Market Inquiry (HMI) Report, which investigates the state of competition in the South African healthcare sector.
The HMI was initiated in 2013 to assess features that may impede affordable healthcare access and its final report was published in September 2019.
Responding to the commission's presentation, the committee focused on various concerns with the National Health Insurance (NHI) and the implications for the healthcare system, particularly in light of the HMI's recommendations.
Committee members asked about the origins of current challenges in the healthcare sector, emphasising that many issues stem from historical changes to medical schemes made before the current administration. During the engagement, it was noted that the previous regulatory environment, which guaranteed payment to providers and uniformity in care, has eroded, leading to confusion and instability. Members made a strong call for a return to foundational principles, including statutory tariffs and guaranteed benefits for medical scheme members, to restore order and fairness in the healthcare system.
The economic implications of the NHI were also highlighted. The committee expressed its concern that the transition could exacerbate existing issues within the healthcare sector. Committee members also called for a thorough investigation into potential collusion among major market players and highlighted the importance of ensuring that the NHI implementation does not lead to further monopolisation of healthcare services.
The committee's discussion also focused on potential challenges in implementing the NHI within the current fragmented healthcare environment. Concerns were expressed that without a coherent regulatory framework, the goals of the NHI may be undermined. Members raised questions about how the government plans to engage with existing healthcare providers and stakeholders to incorporate their perspectives into the NHI rollout.
The need for collaboration between the ministries of Health and of Trade and Industry was another issue mentioned as crucial for creating a unified approach to healthcare reform. The committee indicated that such collaboration is essential for addressing both health outcomes and economic impacts, allowing for the development of policies that promote innovation and competition in the healthcare sector.
The role of the private sector within the NHI framework was also discussed, focusing on balancing contributions from private healthcare providers while maintaining a robust public healthcare system. The committee emphasised the necessity of feedback from both the public and private health sectors to create a fair and efficient healthcare system.
Making his contribution on the report, committee Chairperson Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, expressed deep concern regarding maternal healthcare outcomes in South Africa, particularly the stark differences in delivery methods between public and private hospitals. He noted that in public hospitals, approximately one million babies are delivered annually, with only three out of 10 mothers opting for caesarean sections. In contrast, in private hospitals seven out of 10 women delivering via caesarean, raising issues about the motivations behind these choices. Dr Dhlomo emphasised the importance of natural deliveries, highlighting that women are capable of delivering safely without unnecessary surgical interventions.
He criticised the practice of prolonging hospital stays for women who have undergone caesarean sections, pointing out that many are required to remain in the hospital for several days post-delivery, which incurs additional costs and may not be medically justified. He argued that the standard of care should allow for early discharge, particularly for women who meet health criteria within six hours after delivery. Dr Dhlomo called for a revaluation of these practices, advocating for a healthcare system that prioritises the well-being and autonomy of mothers, rather than financial gain.
He urged the Department of Health to respond proactively to these concerns, emphasising the need for systemic changes that support equitable and high-quality maternal care across both public and private sectors.
In his concluding remarks, Dr Dhlomo asked the Department of Health to take note of all the questions and concerns raised during the discussions. He said the department would be given the opportunity to respond in detail when the committee convenes for its next meeting. “This approach ensures that the Department of Health can provide comprehensive answers and engage in meaningful dialogue regarding the issues surrounding the National Health Insurance and the findings of the Health Market Inquiry Report,” said Dr Dhlomo.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Nzimande calls for urgent need to transform South Africa’s science landscape
Nzimande calls for urgent need to transform South Africa's science landscape
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, has called on the National Advisory Council on Innovation (NACI) to convene a summit to discuss transformation within South Africa’s national system of innovation (NSI).
Speaking in Pretoria at the launch of the 2024 Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Indicators Report, Nzimande said that the summit should bring together stakeholders to address the remaining barriers to achieving a fully transformed innovation system.
Despite the report highlighting increases in the numbers of women and Black academic staff at higher education institutions in South Africa, the Minister said there is still much room for improvement.
“We must recognise the ongoing challenges in transforming our STI landscape. We need to ensure that our NSI truly reflects the demographics of our nation, particularly in terms of race, class and gender,” he added.
According to the report, university enrolments in South Africa increased by 12% between 2012 and 2021, with a 41% rise in the number of graduates.
Black African academic staff representation rose to 43%, marking substantial progress in gender and racial equity.
Meanwhile, scientific publications increased from 3 693 in 2000 to 27 208 in 2022, securing a global share of one percent.
Diversity among authors has also improved significantly, with the percentage of women authors rising from 32% in 2005 to 45% in 2022, and contributions from black academics growing from under 15% to over 52%.
The Minister said the ongoing transformation of the NSI is about ensuring that the benefit of innovation is shared equitably across society.
This includes enhancing access to science and technology education for young people from working-class and poor backgrounds to ensure they can become future scientists and innovators.
However, he said the positive increases in university enrolments and graduates, coupled with the growing representation of women and Black African academic staff, were testament to government’s commitment to building a more equitable and inclusive scientific community.
The National Research Foundation, which celebrated its 25th anniversary last week, said that, among 4 212 rated researchers in South Africa, Black South Africans account for 38%.
Nzimande believes this was testimony to the commitment to transform the country’s research landscape.
The STI report, titled ‘Measuring science, technology and innovation to guide their contribution to socio-economic development’, highlights South Africa’s advancements and the challenges that remain.
Commissioned by NACI, the report provides data and insights that inform policy decisions by government, helping to shape strategies aimed at improving the country’s STI landscape.
The report reveals that South Africa invested R2.4 billion in national research infrastructure and R1.2 billion in the National Equipment Programme, strengthening research capabilities across the country.
The nation’s e-Government Development Index improved from 0.49 in 2012 to 0.74 in 2022, with its global ranking jumping from 101 to 65 out of 193 countries, reflecting significant progress in digital inclusion.
Manufacturing exports increased by 11.7% between 2021 and 2022, with medium and high technology (MHT) exports showing strong growth.
The sector saw a notable rise in patent filings and publications in emerging technologies, including digitalisation and nanotechnology, indicating a robust commitment to innovation.
The report identified ongoing challenges, including low research and development (R&D) intensity, declining international patent applications, and reduced venture capital investment.
South Africa’s patenting activity has declined significantly over the past few years.
Domestic patents granted decreased from 694 in 2019 to 513 in 2022, while patent applications abroad dropped from 1 457 in 2020 to 968 in 2022.
Additionally, patents granted by the European Patent Office decreased from 80 in 2020 to 38 in 2022.
However, there was a slight increase in patents granted by the US Patent and Trademark Office, from 125 in 2021 to 150 in 2022.
“As we move forward, it is imperative that we make targeted and sustainable policy, institutional, and resource interventions to address the challenges identified in the 2024 STI Indicators Report. Our goal is to place science, technology, and innovation at the core of South Africa's national development agenda, the Minister.
CEO of NACI, Dr Mlungisi Cele, underscored the importance of addressing these challenges with a comprehensive strategy. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 08/28/2024 - 15:23
556 views
Luxury Properties Seized in New Lottery Crackdown
Pretoria High Court grants preservation order over assets
Siphokazi Jonas Debut Poetry Collection Published by Penguin Random House In Book Stores Now
On the eve of the multi-award-winning writer, performer and poet Siphokazi Jonas’ forthcoming debut, Penguin Random House poetry collection, Weeping Becomes a River, released in September 2024, the latter part of 2024, into 2025 looks to be an eventful and confirmatory career trajectory for the firebrand. Siphokazi Jonas is a weaver of seemingly discordant worlds; …
At 104 Years Old, War Veteran William Sadiki’s One Wish Is to Have a Toilet Inside His House
“War is not good, and it is painful. If I were asked to go to war again, I would not agree.”
Choosing the Right Garage Doors for Your Home
Selecting the right garage doors is not only about enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home but also about increasing functionality and security. Whether you’re considering a new garage door installation or replacing an existing one, understanding the different materials and styles available can make a significant difference in your decision-making process. Importance of …
Prasa Taken to Court Over “Illegal” Eviction in Cape Town City Centre
Man stabbed during shack demolitions
Bara’s burn unit gets a much-needed upgrade
Bara's burn unit gets a much-needed upgrade
The upgrading of the Wits Roy McAlpine Burns Unit at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH) will go a long way in positioning the facility as one of the leading centres in Africa, focusing on the treatment of burns.
This is according to Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, who opened the new extended wing together with Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Wits University, Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, and the Roy McAlpine Foundation.
The additional wing is expected to enhance critical care and specialist training.
Since its establishment 33 years ago, the burns unit at the hospital has admitted over 30 000 patients and performed more than 40 000 burn-related surgical procedures.
“The opening of this new wing is more than just an expansion of physical space; it represents a crucial step forward in our ability to provide lifesaving world-class care to the hundreds of patients who depend on the public health system.
“This centre of excellence will go a long way in ensuring that more patients, both adults and children, can be counted among those whose dignity was restored post severe burns,” explained Nkomo-Ralehoko.
According to the CHBAH Head of Burns Unit, Professor Adelin Muganza, the facility’s expansion includes 12 newly- equipped intensive care unit (ICU) beds and a new operating theatre to reduce delays in surgical procedures - a critical factor in treating severe burns.
The unit also boasts office space, a large outpatient service area ensuring that more patients receive timely follow-up care, and rehabilitation spaces for occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech therapy, and recreational activities.
According to Muganza, all these are essential for the holistic recovery of burn victims, including a skin substitute laboratory to improve the training of specialists and patient outcomes through cutting-edge research.
The impact of this expansion is already being felt by patients such as 29-year-old Nontleko Sithole from George Goch in Johannesburg who suffered burns to her body and face.
She was admitted to the Wits Roy McAlpine Burns Unit earlier this month after a devastating fire at her home, which sadly claimed her grandmother.
“I am impressed and happy with how the hospital treated my wounds and amazed about the progress I am making so far. I never thought I was going to recover so quickly, but now I am positive because of the work done on me by the healthcare workers,” she said.
Another patient, Bafana Alex Ntombela from Pimville, Soweto, was severely burned after collapsing onto a hotplate stove, causing significant injuries to the lower part of his body.
“I thought my life was over after seeing how badly I was burned. I underestimated Bara and its staff, but they surprised me with the treatment they gave me. They counselled me, and I have hope that I will recover. The progress of my healing is amazing.”
The facility is set to recruit additional specialists, medical officers, and nurses, further strengthening its capacity to meet the growing healthcare needs of the community.
This milestone underlines the GDoH’s commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure and preparing for the National Health Insurance (NHI) by expanding and upgrading facilities to meet the increasing demand for healthcare services.
The facility will also significantly improve burns services not only in Gauteng but also across South Africa and the broader Southern African Development Community region. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 08/28/2024 - 10:23
363 views
Police Officer Filmed Assaulting Man Is Still on Duty
Three officers are accused of assaulting Juma Igiranieza, a barber, in Mowbray on 7 November 2023
Chikunga reacts to brutal killing of two Limpopo women
Chikunga reacts to brutal killing of two Limpopo women
Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has commended law enforcement agencies for their speedy arrest of the farm owners, who allegedly killed two Limpopo women.
The owners of Onverwacht farm, near Sebayeng, outside Polokwane, have appeared in court on charges of attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and defeating the ends of justice.
“The ferocious murder of the two women confirms that South Africa is struggling to overcome the burden of race, class, and gender-based inequality inherited during the periods of colonialism and apartheid.
“Women in rural, remote and severely underprivileged areas remain one of the most vulnerable groups to violence in their communities and their homes,” Chikunga said.
Chikunga said violence against women has reached alarming proportions in South Africa and it affects all women in this country.
The Minister emphasised the need to give attention to the extent of the vulnerability of rural women and women living on farmlands to have access to the justice system.
She said unequal access to education, segregated communities and massive economic disparities persists particularly among rural women and women on farms who are the most marginalised groups of women in South Africa.
“Approximately 55.5% (30.3 million people) of the population is living in the national upper poverty line while a total of 13.8 million people (25%) is experiencing food poverty.
“Action has never been more urgent to reduce inequality in society, the department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities is leading the socio-economic empowerment of women youth and persons with disabilities, by ensuring that gender-responsive planning and budgeting becomes a norm for the whole country as it works towards ensuring equality,” Chikunga said.
The accused remained in custody and the case was postponed to 30 August 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 08/28/2024 - 11:15
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Public Safety Survey Highlights Magnitude of Work the SAPS Must Do to Regain Trust
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Mr Ian Cameron, has expressed concern that only 58% of housebreaking victims report the crime to the police, mainly because they believe that the South African Police Service (SAPS) will not do anything about it. The Chairperson was responding to Statistics South Africa's release of the 2023/24 Governance, Public Safety and Justice Survey.
“The trust deficit between the SAPS and communities is a major Achilles heel in the fight against crime. It is up to the South African Police Service to work hard, through deeds and action, to reverse this negative sentiment,” Mr Cameron said.
The Chairperson welcomed the release of the survey, as it gives a deeper analysis of the crime picture in the country. What is worrying, Mr Cameron said, was the general decline in reporting acts of crime across the board, especially sexual offences.
“The decline in reporting sexual offences from 92.3% to 78.4% should be reversed through training of police officers to adequately handle sexual-related crimes to prevent secondary victimisation. Also, the effective investigation of crimes leading to prosecution and the constant updating of victims will enhance trust between the police and victims,” Mr Cameron emphasised.
“It is extremely concerning, as SAPS is not currently equipped to really support victims and unfortunately when protection orders are not adequately enforced victims lose faith in the system,” Mr Cameron said. “Part of the budget adjustments the committee wants to propose can help address some of these shortcomings,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Chairperson underscored the serious concern that the use of illicit firearms, the weapons of choice in many criminal incidents, continues unabated. “We need more capacity within the SAPS to do destruction of firearms handed in and seized by police, as well as effective consequence management against those involved in smuggling firearms. The ease with which criminals access firearms is unacceptable,” Mr Cameron said.
The Chairperson also highlighted that it is unacceptable that people feel unsafe walking the street after dark. Statistics SA revealed that this fear is particularly pronounced among women, who reported feeling less safe walking in their neighbourhoods after dark than men. Additionally, the percentage of people who feel safe walking alone during the day fell from 86,6% in 2019/20 to 84,8% in 2020/21, continuing to decline throughout the reporting period and reaching 80,4% in 2023/24. The Chairperson called for heightened police visibility to curb this worrying trend.
Furthermore, the Chairperson encouraged communities to actively participate in community neighbourhood watches and community police forums, and to continue to be the ears and eyes of the police. “It is crucial that communities exhaust all lawful remedies to help prevent and combat crimes as we work to help adjust resources and budget of the SAPS,” Mr Cameron said.
Meanwhile, the Chairperson welcomed yesterday's multidisciplinary operation undertaken in eThekwini where at least 123 undocumented foreign nationals were arrested. The police also recovered counterfeit US dollars equivalent to R4.1 million, seized 117 rounds of ammunition of various firearm calibres and a large amount of liquor. Also, one suspect was arrested after he was found in possession of cocaine, crystal meth and an undisclosed amount of money. Mr Cameron emphasised that these kinds of disruptive operations are necessary in the fight against crime, and he called the SAPS to intensify such operations.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Trinasolar Reinforces Its Commitment to South Africa’s Renewable Energy Future with Landmark Event in Cape Town
Trinasolar (www.Trinasolar.com), a global leader in smart PV and energy storage solutions, further solidified its commitment to South Africa's renewable energy future with an insightful customer event in Cape Town on August 26th. This event not only emphasized Trinasolar's ongoing expansion in the region but also highlighted its transformative impact on the country's energy landscape.
The event featured a keynote address by Kadri Nassiep, the City of Cape Town's Energy Executive Director, who provided an insightful overview of the city's energy strategies. Mr. Nassiep's address tackled the critical challenges of power outages and outlined innovative solutions that align with Trinasolar's mission to deliver reliable, sustainable energy to communities across South Africa.
Zaheer Khan, Regional Director for South Africa at Trinasolar, spoke to the company's significant milestones in the region, reflecting on Trinasolar's growing leadership in the renewable energy sector. "Our journey in South Africa is one of partnership and progress. Trinasolar's advanced technologies and strategic collaborations are not only addressing the immediate energy needs but also laying the foundation for a sustainable energy ecosystem in the country," Khan stated. He further emphasized Trinasolar's role as a catalyst for positive change, driving both economic growth and environmental stewardship in South Africa.
Peter Pan, Trinasolar's Storage Sales Manager, presented the company's cutting-edge energy storage solutions, which have been instrumental in ensuring energy resilience across different regions. His presentation highlighted Trinasolar's ability to offer full-process solutions that adapt to the diverse and dynamic needs of South African customers, further reinforcing the company's pivotal role in the country's energy transition.
In a surprise highlight, legendary South African cricketer Dale Steyn shared his journey of overcoming challenges, drawing parallels between his career and the resilience required in the energy sector. Trinasolar also announced the establishment of the Trinasolar SA Padel Club, an initiative designed to strengthen business relationships with key partners in South Africa's renewable energy industry. The club will serve as a platform for collaboration and networking among industry leaders, fostering a community dedicated to the shared goal of sustainable energy advancement.
The evening concluded with a gala dinner and a captivating performance, leaving guests with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to driving forward South Africa's renewable energy agenda, with Trinasolar at the helm.
Since its founding in 1997, Trinasolar has emerged as a world-leading photovoltaics technology provider. With a robust presence in South Africa, the company continues to innovate and expand, playing a crucial role in the country's transition to a sustainable energy future.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Trina Solar.
About Trinasolar (688599. SH)
Founded in 1997, Trinasolar Co Ltd (stock symbol: Trinasolar; stock code: 688599) is engaged mainly in PV products, PV systems and smart energy. PV products include R&D, production and sales of PV modules. PV systems consist of power stations and system products. Smart energy comprises mainly PV power generation and operatzions and maintenance, smart solutions for energy storage, smart microgrid, and development and sales of multi-energy systems. We are committed to leading the way in smart PV and energy storage solutions and facilitating the transformation of new power systems for a net-zero future.
On June 10, 2020, Trinasolar was listed on the Science and Technology Innovation Board (STAR Market) of the Shanghai Stock Exchange(SSE). It was the first PV and energy storage company to go public on the STAR Market providing PV products and systems, as well as smart energy. For more information, please visit www.Trinasolar.com.
The Future of African Hospitality
Africa's tourism sector is poised for an exciting ascent, and it has the potential to soar if it is propelled by visionary strategies and robust investments that harness the continent's unparalleled tourist allure.
Amid the unprecedented changes of recent years, Africa's tourist appeal is greater than ever. With the right steps, it can offer more top destinations for today's tourists. The API Hospitality & Residences Forum is a pivotal platform for Africa's hospitality industry that is legendary for its dealmaking, networking, and unique insights. It takes place on 19 September 2024 at the Westin Hotel in Cape Town on the first day of the highly anticipated two-day API Summit.
This year's API Summit is themed “Impact”, and industry leaders speaking at the API Hospitality and Residences Forum highlight the key to unlocking the full potential of Africa's tourism sector to foster sustainable growth and enhance the continent's appeal to both travellers and investors includes focused investments, strategic partnerships and robust public sector involvement. The API Hospitality & Residence Forum sets the stage to catalyse and nurture these outcomes.
Bani Haddad, Founder and Managing Director of Aleph Hospitality, the largest independent hotel management company in the Middle East and Africa, will be among the distinguished speakers. "The pandemic had several profound effects on the tourism sector," Haddad reflects. "One of the most noticeable impacts has been the increased desire among travellers for domestic or regional trips, as well as nature-based or less crowded destinations. Africa is uniquely positioned to benefit from these trends.”
Citing the latest Chain Development Pipeline report by W Hospitality, Haddad notes a 20% growth in the number of hotel rooms in Africa since 2020, reaching a total of 92,134 rooms. “This growth indicates that the supply is expanding across the continent to meet the rising demand. We are also witnessing an increase in the quality and branded hotel supply in resort destinations such as Zanzibar and national parks like Serengeti and Mara. The global demand for nature and experiential experiences presents a significant opportunity for Africa, which has much to offer in this regard."
Haddad continues, "Investing in and fostering partnerships within the tourism sector is not just beneficial but essential for unlocking its full potential in Africa.”
Such efforts can lead to comprehensive economic development, job creation, and the promotion of sustainable and inclusive growth. He emphasises that governments, private sector players, and international organisations all have crucial roles in facilitating these investments and partnerships to ensure the tourism sector thrives and significantly contributes to the continent's development.
Echoing this sentiment, Daniel Trappler, Senior Director – Development Sub-Sahara Africa at Radisson Hotel Group (RHG), who will also speak at the event, outlines RHG's strategic plans in the post-COVID landscape. "RHG plans to capitalise on growth opportunities in key value nodes such as Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Zanzibar, and leisure offerings in the coastal and safari segments across Southern and Eastern Africa. Within these nodes lies the opportunity to increase RHG branded supply to meet the obvious growing demand.”
Trappler highlights RHG's eagerness to expand its footprint in Cape Town's 5-star and luxury segments, which have consistently performed above the market average despite higher rates. In Victoria Falls, RHG aims to replicate the success of its Zambezi River's Zambia side, planning to introduce the upscale Radisson brand to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
"We are actively seeking partners to bring our Radisson, Radisson Blu, or Radisson Collection brands to Zanzibar, given RHG's significant presence in Eastern Europe, the largest source market for Zanzibar," Trappler adds.
Since opening its new Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, RHG has set its sights on replicating the same model within Southern and Eastern Africa, capturing both the foreign market and the regional market, which prefers short travel distances for tourism needs.
“The group is developing resort offerings in various safari and coastal locations, including Masai Mara, Serengeti, the Kenyan coast, Seychelles, Mauritius and the wildlife territories in Namibia and Botswana."
Trappler underscores the critical role of investment and public sector involvement. "The contribution of tourism to GDP is evident across the region. National and local governments need to increase their awareness of the sector's potential contribution to GDP. In South Africa, where RHG aims to double its portfolio, we need to see more active interest and contributions from the public sector towards developing hotels and hospitality infrastructure."
He stresses the need for public sector initiatives driving growth in this sector, particularly in South Africa, where the sector is strong but could be a much larger contributor to GDP and employment creation.
The API Hospitality & Residences Forum is a unique pan-African event that brings hospitality-focused leaders and investors together with Africa's leading real estate community. Sponsored by industry giants like Radisson Hotel Group, Marriott Hotels, HTI Consulting, JLL, and Tui Blu, the forum offers an unparalleled platform for doing business in African hospitality.
With over 500 leaders expected to attend the summit, including more than 250 hospitality delegates, in excess of 75 hotel brands, operators and owners, and 35 speakers, the API Hospitality & Residences Forum is the premier gathering of Africa's leading hospitality professions and consultants.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of API Events.
For any media enquiries or interviews, kindly contact:
Anne Lovell
anne@dmix.com
083 651 7777
Distributed for API Events by Dmix:
API Events
Murray Anderson-Ogle
Email:Murray@apievents.com
Contact: +27 71 890 77 39
Website: www.APIEvents.com
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