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CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA, 20 March 2024 – Cape Town’s skyline is reaching new heights as The Rubik, a dazzling luxury apartment complex in the heart of the CBD, has reached the peak of its vertical ascent. With 27 levels of premium living and commercial spaces, The Rubik’s modern glass exterior promises residents and businesses …
“Countless human rights violations are rooted in toxic and wounded masculinity, it’s time to man-up and realise human rights for all!’ says a leading NPC, Father A Nation Johannesburg, March 2024 – As South Africa (SA) observes Human Rights Day, a non-profit company (NPC) calls for the need to promote positive masculinity as a solution …
Government working on reforms to develop sustainable infrastructure - President
President Cyril Ramaphosa says government is working on reforms to develop sustainable infrastructure, boost business confidence and encourage investment.
The President was addressing the National Assembly during an oral reply session on Tuesday.
“One of the most important pillars of government’s economic recovery plan is a significant increase in infrastructure investment. This has meant that we have had to give specific attention to effective project preparation and the mobilisation of funding on a far larger scale.
“We have amended the Division of Revenue Act to provide for the pledging of future infrastructure grants to crowd-in private sector finance and to leverage external technical capacity,” he said.
The President said this will facilitate integrated planning and implementation. It will also enable the development of a funded maintenance programme, a monitoring and evaluation framework, and a governance structure to manage the programme delivery.
He highlighted that he previously spoke about the Northern Cape and Eastern Cape as pilot provinces to address the social infrastructure backlog in schools as well as in housing.
He told the National Assembly that Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) is making use of its project preparation facility to support the two pilot provinces to develop quality business cases for submission to the Treasury Loans Coordinating Committee and the Budget Facility for Infrastructure.
“Through this mechanism we will ensure that social infrastructure, particularly health and education infrastructure, is delivered in a manner that is cost-effective and rapid.
“It will also help to increases the participation of the private sector, both in terms of financing this build programme and also drawing on its expertise and capabilities,” he said.
As part of capacity building, he said, the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA) is developing guidelines for municipalities to use for project scoping and packaging. Importantly, the Municipal Infrastructure Grant makes provision for a portion of the grant to be utilised for refurbishment.
The President said through these efforts, the infrastructure build programme is starting to gain momentum.
Infrastructure projects worth over R230 billion are currently in construction, including in energy, water, roads, rural bridges, human settlements and student accommodation.
“These projects are contributing to greater economic activity and creating employment while improving the lives of South Africans and expanding the capacity of our economy,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 03/20/2024 - 10:15
Discover romantic date night packages, great value family escapes, unforgettable dining experiences, or the perfect place for after-work drinks with Southern Sun’s selection of specials and packages. Try something new, explore our country’s hidden gems, and enjoy the best Mzansi has to offer. Cape Town Carnival: The Year’s Biggest Street Party Local is Lekker, step …
After a groundbreaking decade at the forefront of podcasting in South Africa, CliffCentral.com founders Gareth Cliff and Rina Broomberg are embarking on an exciting new chapter. One on One Productions, the visionary force behind CliffCentral, is proud to announce two strategic pivots which marks the launch of Podcast Party and The Real Network. The Real …
JP van der Walt set to defend his triple King of the Hill crown in Road Car and Supercar category in Porsche 911 Turbo S Official entries from Suzuki, BMW and Mercedes-Benz feature the latest petrol, hybrid and alternative energy-powered vehicles Category covers everything from hot hatchbacks to muscle cars and high-powered supercars – from […]
South Africa's Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala unpacked the country's 2024/2025 infrastructure priorities and project pipeline during a panel session at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium South Africa (SIDSSA) 2024 in Cape Town on Tuesday.
According to Minister Zikalala, the country's top 12 infrastructure priorities seek to stimulate job creation, promote economic competitiveness and contribute to broadening economic inclusivity.
“We announced the 12 priority projects today and it's important to give a background as to how we arrived at this priority list. We want projects that will contribute to higher GDP impact, but at the same time, ensure export and embrace the green economy,” he stated.
Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit https://SIDSSA.org.za/.
With support from Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) – a program within the Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure – the projects also aim to accelerate private sector-led development. The projects are poised to serve as a catalyst for closing the infrastructure investment gap, while meeting the infrastructure target set out by the government's National Development Plan.
“It was very important for us to ask what we plan to contribute from an operational perspective to all the socioeconomic perspectives outlined by the Minister,” stated Mameetse Masemola, Head of ISA. “We will work very closely with the project sponsors in unpacking the work and once we are ready, we will invite transactional advisors.”
It was noted during the session that shortfalls in operation and maintenance have resulted in the underdevelopment of South Africa's infrastructure strategy. As such, the need to meet end-user's requirements, the mobilization of digital infrastructure and ensuring operational competency were noted as prerequisites to de-risk investment in the sector.
“The projects listed give the catalytic impetus to develop our industry,” stated Wayne Petersen, Director of Transport and Infrastructure at WSP Group. “We have to ensure that the private sector invests strongly in the projects that are implemented.”
Meanwhile, panelists touched on the importance of bankability and sustainability in attracting private sector investment towards infrastructure projects in the country.
“Infrastructure assets are not only about the assets themselves, but also about the economics that surround them,” said Catherine-Candice Koffman, Group Executive for Project Preparation at the Development Bank of Southern Africa. “Bankability is very much about ensuring we have a project that doesn't rely too much on the fiscus. A successful project is one where you use as little budgetary capital to fund the projects as possible.”
For South Africa's infrastructure projects to maintain operational efficiency after completion, it was noted that the country will need to invest in attracting international talent while promoting human capital development, with Partner at PwC Southern Africa Chris van der Merwe stating, “These projects need to strike a balance between economic and social projects.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
About SIDSSA 2024:
SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event.
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In today’s digital-first landscape, businesses across diverse sectors from B2B enterprises to healthcare, retail, and e-commerce are ardently seeking technological synergies that not only streamline operations but also carve a path for competitive superiority. Does that sound like a business? How intelligently any chain links together dictates its strength. There isn’t the space for weak …
Design is a powerful tool for change. As part of reshaping the industry’s paradigms, this year’s theme for Decorex Africa, the continent’s leading decor and design showcase, is Designing for Impact. It marks a commitment to thinking beyond traditional boundaries and identifying the sweet spot that lies at the intersection of creativity, commercial viability and …
The glitz and glamour of the Oscars may have faded, but the magic of the award-winning films lives on. If you’re a movie lover, you know the Oscars are the ultimate benchmark of the year’s must-watch films. Every year, the Academy Awards honour the best of the best in cinema, from acting to directing, from …
South African and regional ministers convened to pinpoint key infrastructure priorities both within South Africa and across the continent during a Leaders Meeting at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium (SIDSSA) 2024 on March 18 in Cape Town.
The discussion, which was led by South Africa's Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala, underscored the importance of project preparation, engagement from both the public and private sectors, maintenance and the implementation of sustainable facilitation methods as crucial elements in fostering investment and promoting regional harmonization within the infrastructure sector.
Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit www.SIDSSA.org.za..
“The purpose of this forum is to identify areas of priority on infrastructure and ensure that we integrate efforts to implement those projects,” Minister Zikalala stated.
The establishment of Infrastructure South Africa aims to serve as a point of entry for infrastructure planning in the country. The organization is a one-stop shop that catalyzes the country's infrastructure target set out in South Africa's National Development Plan, providing best practices in project preparation, planning and technical and financial support for projects.
“We have been established as a bespoke infrastructure development agency in the country,” stated Infrastructure South Africa Head Mameetse Masemola, adding, “We deal with matters around private sector-led infrastructure projects, which require authorizations, permits, licenses and normal bureaucracy around getting projects to be implemented. We unlock these restrictions.”
Meanwhile, it was noted that cross-border collaboration between countries in Africa is a requisite to creating the conditions conducive for the private sector to participate in the continent's infrastructure development. A number of MoUs between South Africa and its neighboring countries – including Lesotho, Eswatini and Zimbabwe – have served to promote regional integration in the infrastructure sector.
“Our main role for the continent is to ensure that we invest in critical infrastructure so that we put in the building blocks that ensure that our nations prosper and that we grow together,” stated South Africa's Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille.
A number of efforts introduced by South Africa's Department of Transport have worked to facilitate the ease of movement from the country's ports and air space. By liberalizing the continent's air space and maritime territories, Africa will be able to harmonize the implementation of favorable regulatory frameworks that promote integration.
“We have introduced a number of efforts in trying to bring about this harmonization between our countries,” stated South Africa's Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga, adding, “For instance, in South Africa, we have introduced Cross Easy, which ensures that when a truck arrives at a port, it is already processed and reduces its travel time.”
The participation of the Premiers of the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal provinces showcased how South Africa can further integrate the country's infrastructure systems. It was noted during the discussion that South Africa's economy relies on the efficiencies of its ports, rail network and aviation network and that it is imperative for the rest of the continent to benefit from the modernization of the country's infrastructure industry.
“We share borders with countries such as Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho, amongst others, and this puts us in a strategic position in terms of ensuring our infrastructure planning and the integration of our infrastructure maximizes the potential of the African continent in terms of moving goods,” stated KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube.
International ministers from Liberia, Eswatini, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Seychelles and Equatorial Guinea also participated in the Leaders Meeting, making a case for investment in their respective countries' infrastructure space.
“We have come to share with you, to learn with you and to communicate with you. We find that rapid technological advancement is significant and cannot be overstated,” stated Liberia's Minister of Ports and Telecommunications Sekou M. Kromah, adding, “As we experience the competitiveness of the digital age, it is imperative that our digital infrastructure is able to meet the demands of an ever-changing landscape.”
“The heads of infrastructure departments must always gather to discuss and help other countries that haven't been developed yet,” concluded Equatorial Guinea's Minister of Public Works, Housing and Town Planning, Don Pascual Ondo Nze Oyana.
SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
T20 Challenge leaders Dafabet Warriors will be in action on their home ground of Dafabet St George’s Park twice over the coming public holiday and long weekend. After a run of four straight wins, they play World Sports Betting Western Province on March 21, the public holiday. “We are looking forward to our local fans …
In today’s complex healthcare landscape, understanding the nuances between various insurance products is crucial for ensuring comprehensive coverage and financial protection. Two key options available to members of medical schemes are Gap Cover and Medical Aid. While they serve distinct purposes, they also complement each other in providing holistic healthcare coverage. Let’s delve into the …
Upgrade of Main Road P2-53 to boost economy in uPhongolo Municipality
Residents and businesses within Nongoma, uPhongolo and surrounding areas stand to benefit from a multimillion rand upgrade of the Main Road P2-53, which will not only improve local infrastructure, but create employment and contribute to economic growth in the area.
The Main Road P2-53 53 in uPhongolo Local Municipality serves as a crucial feeder road to the National Road, N2-32.
Its resurfacing, at a cost of over R329 million, is aimed at enhancing accessibility, benefiting numerous residents and businesses within Nongoma, uPhongolo and surrounding areas.
The development of the road will also improve road safety in the area, and also help to boost the local economy by making it easier for people to travel to and from the area.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube said the development of the road not only promises better accessibility, but also aims to bolster road safety within the region.
Dube-Ncube said the upgraded road is also expected to catalyse the local economy by facilitating smoother travel for residents and visitors alike.
“Moreover, the upgraded road provides vital access to numerous communities, social facilities, and businesses, including educational institutions like Petergate Primary, Empakama Public, KwaMagwaza Combined Primary, and others.
“It also serves as a gateway to essential amenities such as healthcare facilities, police stations, places of worship, and recreational areas like the Mkhuze Game Reserve,” Dube-Ncube said.
To ensure the inclusivity of the project, the Premier said a combination of established contractors and emerging contractors was enlisted through the Contractor Participation Goal (CPG).
“Contracts were strategically grouped to maximise employment opportunities, aligning with the objectives of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and contract participation goals, thus fostering job creation within the area,” the Premier said.
The section of the road undergoing upgrades falls under the governance of Mgazini Traditional Council, under the leadership of Inkosi Ntshangase, and Osuthu Traditional Council, under the auspices of His Majesty King Misizulu kaZwelithini, covering Ward One and Ward 18. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 09:55
In today’s fast-paced world, the convenience of online shopping has revolutionised the way we procure goods, and car parts and car spares are no exception. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or simply in need of a replacement part for your vehicle, the internet offers a plethora of options for sourcing auto parts and aftermarket car parts …
ACCRA: Team South Africa slipped to a 70-run defeat against Kenya in their second match of the African Games at...
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SANRAL invests R2 billion in Eastern Cape road maintenance
The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) is expected to inject close to R2 billion into the Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape when it implements its road maintenance projects over the next three years.
The roads agency said it will implement two road infrastructure development projects in the municipality, which include the road improvements of the R61 National Road between All Saints to Bayiza, as well as road improvements of the R61 National Road between Qumanco and eNgcobo.
The scope of work on these projects will entail the upgrading of roads, bridges and culverts and improving road safety in the area.
SANRAL has set aside a minimum of 30% of the project value to be subcontracted to SMMEs and a minimum of 8% of the project value will be set aside for local labour.
The construction tender closed on 8 March this year, and the projects are envisaged to take place over three years once a contractor is appointed.
SANRAL Southern Region’s Stakeholder Coordinator Welekazi Ndika said project liaison committees (PLCs) would be established to ensure better communication and transparency on SANRAL projects, as well as ensuring that work done on projects is seamless.
“PLCs will assist in creating a platform for project liaison, works execution, subcontracting and facilitating employment opportunities for local community members. These include young people, women, people with disabilities and military veterans. Local subcontractors and communities must benefit from our projects, and we value transparency with communities on these contracts,” Ndika said.
While highlighting the country’s high unemployment rate among the youth, Ndika implored the youth to participate in PLC structures.
SANRAL Southern Region’s Transformation Unit Zenande Mpondo said the roads agency will train and develop Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMME) contractors to enhance their business acumen and tendering skills.
“All small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) will be required to undertake assessment and class activities during the training, and they will have to demonstrate competence to be awarded the unit standard. The unit standards are from the National Certificate: Construction Contracting NQF 2. These unit standards are a skills programme that will have a credit value towards the National Certificate,” Mpondo said.
She mentioned that it is SANRAL’s commitment to ensure that SMMEs are assisted with information on tenders, as well as on development opportunities, ensuring that they can participate in SANRAL projects.
“Through our Supplier Development Desk at SANRAL, we are available to manage incoming queries from our Transformation Portal, telephonic queries, emails, as well as walk-ins. The desk also advises on upcoming training, workshops and transformation sessions that we host. We also offer guidelines for SMMEs on how to tender on the portal. This is just one of our ongoing efforts to ensure that we improve interaction with SMMEs,” Mpondo said.
SANRAL currently manages a road network of 5 334km in the Eastern Cape. The roads agency has recently taken over several roads in the province, and this will increase its road network to 5 600km in the Eastern Cape.
SANRAL invested over R28 billion in the Eastern Cape between 2014 and 2022, significantly boosting economic development and job creation.
In line with its strategic intent to ensure sustainability of the construction industry, SANRAL intends to spend just over R55 billion between April this year and March 2027. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 03/18/2024 - 14:04
Maumela faces gross misconduct and incompetence charges because of late judgments
When redefining value, higher education institutions will be increasingly required to step out of their comfort zones Higher education institutions worldwide are currently facing a critical period in their existence. They have to redefine their value proposition to a cohort of students who are not only digital natives but have grown up in an environment …
In the lead up to International Women’s Day, it is an opportune time to engage in a thoughtful reflection on the strides made and the persistent challenges encountered in the pursuit of gender equality. Avon’s recently unveiled 2024 Global Progress for Women Report serves as a catalyst for contemplation, urging us to delve into the …