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Two sentenced to 60 years in prison
Two sentenced to 60 years in prison
Two suspects have each been sentenced to 60 years in prison on several charges, including two counts of attempted murder, murder and the possession of illicit firearms.
The two, Sakhiwo Khala (42) and Siyabulela Mcelu (37) were sentenced in the Khayelitsha Regional Court in the Western Cape on Monday.
According to the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation (Hawks), the sentences emanate from a 2015 incident where an SBV cash vehicle arrived at Nolungile Railway Station in Khayelitsha.
It is alleged that when SBV crew members came back from collecting the money they were attacked and shot by three unknown suspects.
The crew returned fire and one suspect was fatally wounded during the ordeal and two other suspects were wounded but fled the scene on foot.
The suspects were charged for fatally wounding one of their own co- suspects. The crew members also sustained injuries during the shootout. The wounded suspects were traced and arrested.
The two were found guilty of the counts on 08 November 2023.
The accused were sentenced as follows:
Count 1: Attempted robbery with aggravating circumstances, sentenced to 12 years imprisonment each.
Count 2: Attempted murder, sentenced to six years imprisonment each.
Count 3: Attempted murder, sentenced to six years imprisonment each.
Count 4: Murder, sentenced to 22 years imprisonment each.
Count 5: Possession of illicit firearms, sentenced to 12 years imprisonment each.
Count 6: Unlawful possession of ammunition, sentenced to two years imprisonment each.
The court ordered that counts 1,2,3 ,5 and 6 run concurrently with count 4.
Effectively each accused will serve 22 years direct imprisonment.
In terms of Section 103 (1) and (2) of the Firearms Control Act, Act 60 of 2000, both accused were declared unfit to possess a firearm.
The Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation in the Western Cape Major General Mathipa Makgato commended the team and was delighted that justice has been served. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 14:51
274 views
New Season Of The Met: Live In Hd Features Nine Sumptuous Operas From The Met Stage To The Big Screen, Exclusively At Ster-Kinekor Cinemas
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Shabbat against genocide held at Nelson Mandela Foundation
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Master the Court: Finding Your Perfect Match with adidas Padel Rackets
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President gives go-ahead to dig into corruption at PRASA
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SIU to investigate Home Affairs and PRASA
SIU to investigate Home Affairs and PRASA
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is expected to launch a probe into allegations of serious maladministration in the affairs of the Department of Home Affairs and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA).
This after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed proclamations authorising the corruption busting unit to investigate the department and PRASA.
The SIU said it will also probe “improper or unlawful conduct by officials or employees of the State entities and…recover any financial losses suffered by the State”.
“Proclamation 154 of 2024 empowers the SIU to probe serious maladministration in connection with the affairs of Home Affairs relating to the issuance of permanent residence permits; corporate visas; business visas; critical/exceptional skills work visas; study visas; retired persons’ visas; work visas; and citizenship by naturalisation, contrary to the Immigration Act, 2002; the South African Citizenship Act, 1995; manuals, guidelines, circulars, practice notes or instructions applicable to Home Affairs; or manuals, policies, procedures, prescripts, instructions or practices of or applicable to the Department,” the SIU said.
The unit said it will also investigate “improper or unlawful conduct by officials or employees of Home Affairs in relation to the installation of T200 firewalls”.
“The Proclamation also empowers the SIU to investigate any irregular, unlawful or improper conduct by officials or employees of Home Affairs or any other person or entity, in relation to the allegations being investigated.
“The Proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that took place between 12 October 2004 and 16 February 2024, the date of the publication of the Proclamation or before 12 October 2004 and after the date of the Proclamation that are relevant to, connected with, incidental to the matters or involves the same persons, entities or contracts investigated,” the SIU said.
PRASA
The SIU explained that in relation to PRASA, the unit will investigate allegations of corruption related to the awarding of tenders for the supply of trains.
The proclamation covers a period from 1 January 2010 to 16 February 2024.
“Proclamation 153 of 2024 empowers the SIU to probe offences that were committed…in relation to the award of tenders for the supply of various train locomotives to Swifambo Rail Leasing Pty Ltd, and the supply and maintenance of an integrated security access management system at various train stations to Siyangena Technologies Pty Ltd.
“The SIU will also investigate serious maladministration in the affairs of PRASA relating to fraudulent liability claims processed and paid by PRASA’s Group Insurance Department, including claims paid as one time vendor payments. The probe will also extend to employment of ghost employees identified by PRASA’s Project Zivese in August 2021,” the anti-corruption unit said.
The SIU said it will also “identify system failures and make systematic recommendations to improve measures to prevent future losses”.
“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers during its investigations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.
“The SIU is empowered by the SIU Act to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during its investigation caused by acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 02/19/2024 - 11:54
650 views
DPCI determined to deal with national priority offences
DPCI determined to deal with national priority offences
Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, says members of the DPCI are determined to deal with national priority offences.
“Their persistence led to securing the attendance in court of at least 724 suspects, which is made of 705 natural persons and 19 juristic persons,” Lebeya said.
Briefing media in Pretoria on Monday to outline progress made in the third quarter of the 2023/24 financial year, Lebeya said 229 accused persons, which is made of 220 natural persons and nine juristic persons, were convicted and sentenced.
“The top five national priority offences that contributed a high number of arrests are 156 for fraud, including 15 companies; 64 for precious metals and diamonds; 67 for narcotics; 51 for non-ferrous metals and 51 for corruption,” Lebeya said.
Lebeya said during the arrests, the DPCI seized various exhibits, including precious metals and diamonds, endangered species, vehicles, cash, firearms, ammunition, counterfeit goods, explosives and electronic devices worth R102 614 521.89.
“Out of the 229 convictions, fraud contributed the highest number of convictions, with a total number of 63. Precious metals and diamonds are the second highest, with a total number of 45 accused persons.
“Over and above arrests and convictions, the Directorate, in collaboration with the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), secured 92 orders with a monetary value of R39 642 652.71,” Lebeya said.
Lebeya used the opportunity to warn criminals attacking police officers that the law will not have mercy on them.
“An attack on police official is an attack on the State, and the death of one police official, who is the protector of all the people in South Africa, is unacceptable,” he said.
Lebeya said 22 police officials were murdered in the third quarter, 12 off duty and 10 on duty, and that 12 arrests were effected.
As part of successes in apprehending those that are attacking police officers, three accused persons were convicted and sentenced to share four life imprisonment and 38 years imprisonment terms.
“This sentence serves as a deterrent to other would-be criminals that under the doctrine of common purpose, not only will the accused be held liable and charged for the murder of police officers, but also for the murder of their accomplices who died during a crossfire with the police.
“The crimes that your co-perpetrator commits are imputed on you. If the crimes committed results in the death of a co-perpetrator, the surviving co-perpetrator will be charged with the death of his or her co-perpetrator, regardless of the fact that the death may have been inflicted by the victim,” he said.
Crimes against the State
With regards to crimes against the State, Lebeya cited an incident which took place in July 2021, where a video clip inciting people to burn and loot the Brookside Mall in Pietermaritzburg was circulated on social media platform. The perpetrator was arrested on 28 August 2021.
The Hawks initiated investigations and identified the author of the video clip as Mdumiseni Khetha Zuma (36). He was arrested in KwaZulu-Natal, where his bail was also denied.
Zuma was sentenced to10 years imprisonment for the first count, of which two years was suspended for five years, on condition that he is not convicted of the same offence during the period of suspension.
He was further sentenced to six years imprisonment on a second count, of which two years is to run concurrently with the sentence on the first count.
“We may recall that 65 alleged July unrest instigators were secured to appear in court on charges of conspiracy to commit public violence, incitement to commit public violence and incitement to commit arson.
“A charge of terrorism has been added. All the accused are on bail and the case is postponed to 8 April 2024 at the Durban Local Division of the High Court,” Lebeya said.
With regards to illegal miners, Lebeya said there have been some successes. On 24 November 2023, three suspects -- Progress Bayeni Mlambo (42), Leornard Moyo (46) and Kocanai Sithole (26) -- were arrested by a team comprising Welkom-based Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation, Hawks’ Head Office Precious Metals & Diamonds (PMD) team, Public Order Police and Protea Coin Security.
“Information about the accused exchanging gold for cash between the Free State and Gauteng led the investigators to seek a search and seizure warrant. They had their eyes set squarely on a certain house in Parys, where these illegal activities were said to be taking place.
“The suspects appeared before the magistrate in Parys on 27 November 2023 for contravention of the Precious Metals Act 37 of 2005, and again on 29 January 2024,” Lebeya said.
Lebeya described human trafficking as modern-day slavery and a crime against humanity.
“South Africa has not been spared this twin-pandemic of trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants,” he said.
During this reporting period, 19 potential victims of trafficking in persons were rescued. Three foreign nationals were convicted, while four suspects were arrested.
Lebeya said 16 awareness campaigns were pro-actively conducted and 17 disruptive operations were reactively conducted. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 02/19/2024 - 12:31
514 views
Taxi operators halt City from relocating families in Khayelitsha
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Justice and Correctional Services Committee Calls Public Input on Deputy Public Protector Candidates
The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services today called for public comments on applications and nominations received for the position of Deputy Public Protector (DPP).
Committee Chairperson Mr Bulelani Magwanishe said the position became vacant late last year when the then DPP was appointed as Public Protector (PP). Mr Magwanishe said the committee received a total of 46 applications and nominations of which two has since withdrawn.
Mr Magwanishe said a list of all the nominations/applications received is now available on the Parliament website in order to allow members of the public to comment on the suitability of candidates. Please find list of candidates below:
He said the DPP is appointed by the President on the recommendation of the National Assembly for such a period as the President may determine at the time of such appointment, but not exceeding seven years. The DPP may at the end of his or her term be reappointed for one additional term. The annual salary for the position is R1 924 542.
The person recommended for appointment as DPP must be a South African citizen, who is a fit and proper person to hold such office, and who:
- Is admitted as an advocate or an attorney and has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years after having been so admitted, practiced as an advocate or an attorney; or
- Is qualified to be admitted as an advocate or an attorney and has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years after having so qualified, lectured in law at a university; or
- Has specialised knowledge of or experience in, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years, the administration of justice, public administration or public finance; or
- Has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years, been a member of Parliament; or
- Has acquired any combination of experience mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (d), for a cumulative period of at least 10 years.
Nominations/applications must contain a curriculum vitae (CV) providing the nominee/applicant's:
- Full name, ID number and gender;
- Contact details, including physical address, telephone/cell phone number and email address;
- Relevant previous work experience (including relevant dates and organisations concerned); and
- Academic qualifications.
Mr Magwanishe said a list of all the nominations/applications received will be published in order to allow members of the public to comment on the suitability of candidates. He said the shortlisted candidates will be subjected to a screening process.
Comments must reach Mr Vhonani Ramaano at Dppvacancy@parliament.gov.za by no later than 23 February 2024 at 16H00.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
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SA strengthens its response to climate change
SA strengthens its response to climate change
South Africa is enhancing its efforts to address climate change by introducing the Climate Change Response Fund aimed at fostering collaboration between government and the private sector to effectively tackle environmental challenges.
This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who addressed the nation through his weekly newsletter on Monday.
“For our part, South Africa has established a Climate Change Response Fund that will bring together all spheres of government and the private sector. By coordinating financial mobilisation from both government and the private sector, our country will have collaborative efforts to build resilience and respond to climate change.
“This includes climate-proofing existing essential infrastructure and facilities, such as water and food systems, roads, rail and ports, human settlements and health care.
“The fund will also collaborate with a variety of partners to respond to immediate needs in communities following climate change related disasters,” the President said.
The fund forms an important part of South Africa’s comprehensive response to climate change, which includes both adaptation and measures to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
President Ramaphosa has just returned from the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where the worsening effects of climate change on the continent were raised prominently.
African leaders have been advocating for urgent, practical and stepped up climate action, given the continent’s extreme vulnerability to the effects of global warming.
“We have seen a rapid increase in climate-related disasters worldwide as extreme weather events become more frequent. In our own country, we have had wildfires in the Western Cape, heatwaves in the Northern Cape, continuing drought conditions in the Eastern Cape and intense storms in Gauteng.
“Even before we could properly recover and rebuild after the 2022 floods in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and North West, we were hit again this year with more flooding, further loss of life and damage to livelihoods, property and the local economy,” he said.
President Ramaphosa said the insurance industry is warning about the increasing costs of disaster risk finance, and the prospect of highly vulnerable regions eventually becoming uninsurable.
As noted during the AU Summit, the President explained that the African climate action is constrained by inadequate and unpredictable climate finance.
“It has long been the continental position that those most responsible for climate change and its impacts, namely developed countries, bear a responsibility to assist developing countries to build climate resilience.
“We therefore welcomed the historic agreement at the UN Climate Conference in the United Arab Emirates in December last year to operationalise a Loss and Damage Fund to provide financial support for developing countries that are vulnerable to the impact of climate change. South Africa and the African Group were key to securing this agreement,” the President said.
At the same time, the President said, African countries are forging ahead with plans to mobilise resources in support of climate action across the continent, and the AU Commission has recently established a Climate Finance Unit to ensure this is done in a coordinated manner.
The President emphasised that as a country, South Africa cannot be complacent about climate change because its impacts are already being felt.
“We will continue to contribute our fair share to the global climate change effort. Our country will remain vocal in calling for developed countries to meet their obligations for financing and technology transfer support.
“We will continue to campaign for transformation of the international financial architecture and reform of multilateral development banks and international financial institutions so that developing countries can access the resources needed for climate action and the implementation of the sustainable development goals,” he said.
The President committed to continue to campaign against the implementation of climate and environment based unilateral actions, policies and taxes and their potential impacts on African exports and trade.
“Climate change is a global problem and as such, requires collective global action that is sustainable, that takes the differing circumstances and capabilities of countries into account, and that above all, leaves no-one behind,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 02/19/2024 - 13:12
304 views
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Incredible achievement – South African singer/songwriter FILIPA to seize portion in Portugal’s Festival da Canção
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Emergency housing team to assist Nongoma storm victims
Emergency housing team to assist Nongoma storm victims
Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has dispatched the department’s emergency housing team to establish the extent of damage caused by a storm that hit several houses in Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal, on Saturday.
According to the department’s preliminary assessments, to date, several households in Ekubuseni, Gomodo and Holinyoka villages were largely affected, leaving four households homeless.
Kubayi said after the completion of the assessments, the Emergency Housing Unit will then intervene based on the four categories of emergency housing interventions provided by the department.
The four categories of emergency housing interventions include restoration, relocation, rebuilding and repairs.
Restoration provides building materials to all households whose structures were destroyed by the storm, while relocation provides Temporary Emergency Accommodation (TEAs) for all homeless families.
Rebuilding involves reconstructing Temporary Residential Units (TRUs) for all destroyed mud houses, while repairs include fixing all damaged formal houses after the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC) has completed the structural assessments.
“I have directed officials to ensure that affected households are assisted as a matter of urgency. We have roped in one of our agencies, the NHBRC, to help the team assess the integrity of all structures that have been affected,” Kubayi said.
Established in 2023, the Emergency Housing Unit is tasked with the responsibility of responding to emergencies, including fires and floods.
This is done through collaboration with other spheres of government.
“Our main objective in emergency housing response is to ensure that we respond swiftly and provide solutions that will enable the affected communities to rebuild their homes,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 02/19/2024 - 10:10
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Canon and MindMe International forge partnership to Empower Kenyan Youth through Creative Storytelling
Canon Central and North Africa (Canon-CNA.com), a global leader in imaging solutions, is pleased to announce a transformative partnership with MindMe International (MMI), a registered NGO based in Kenya. This collaboration aims to empower marginalized communities through sustainable development, with a focus on fostering positive change in young individuals' lives.
Central to this collaboration is the shared objective of transforming young participants into effective storytellers. The programme's structured approach includes providing access to equipment, teaching photography skills, showcasing examples and case studies, and guiding participants to tell their stories authentically. Upon completion of the programme, participants will be awarded certificates by Canon, to acknowledge their dedication and accomplishments.
“Canon is proud to partner with MindMe International on this impactful initiative, empowering young individuals to become creative storytellers who can authentically represent their communities. Through the Young People Programme, we aim to provide these young talents with the tools and skills needed to make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond,” says Jeanine El Moughrabi, Developing Regions Sustainability Manager
The programme, officially commenced on 8 February 2024, and kicked off with an introductory event on 1 February. MindMe International, dedicated to eradicating extreme poverty through localized development, will work hand in hand with Canon to run a three-month initiative targeting young people between 11 and 17 years. The workshops are being held at Woodcreek School in Kiambu County, Kenya, with 20 participants.
An integral part of the collaboration is the commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through the Young People Programme (YPP), Canon and MindMe International envision empowering the youth to amplify the SDGs through their narratives. The aim is not only to equip young individuals with practical skills but also to inspire them to become advocates for positive change in their respective communities.
With the initiative running for three months, it allows for the outcomes to be accurately monitored to evaluate the programme's success and impact. The program comprises 12 workshops scheduled every Thursday, that commenced on February 8th and will conclude on May 30th, along with the utilization of Canon EOS 4000D cameras.
The culmination of the initiative will be marked by an engaging exhibition showcasing the creative images produced by the young participants. This exhibition will provide a platform for the youth to express themselves creatively and share their unique perspectives on sustainability and community development. Local suppliers in Kenya will be involved in printing toolkits and resource materials for the exhibition, contributing to a positive economic ripple effect and promoting environmental sustainability.
This collaboration builds on the success stories of similar initiatives, such as Kgaugelo Neville Ngomane, a participant in the Young People Programme South Africa, who won the CIWEMs International Young Environmental Photographer of the Year Award. This partnership is poised to create more success stories, scholarships, jobs, and internships for the young participants, emphasizing the potential for meaningful impact.
Carol Kiiru, Director-MindMe International: “MindMe International envisions a world where sustainable development is accessible to all, breaking the chains of extreme poverty. Through our collaboration with Canon in the YPP, we strive to empower marginalized youth, aligned in our Education and Youth (Arts and Digital empowerment) programmes providing them with the tools to tell their stories and advocate for positive change. By fostering creativity, skills, and community engagement, we are aligning with the SDGs and shaping a future where every voice, regardless of background, contributes to building a society free from inequality and poverty.”
Through this partnership, Canon and MindMe International send a powerful message about the significance of empowering young people to be agents of positive change in their communities. Young voices, when equipped with the right skills and platforms, can inspire, and drive social change. In addition, the collaboration serves as an outstanding example of how private and non-profit sectors can work together to contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future.
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: Canon-CNA.com
RS South Africa Showcases Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) Solutions at Mining and Technical Exhibitions (MTE) Display in Jwaneng, Botswana
RS South Africa (https://Africa.RSdelivers.com/), a trading brand of RS Group plc (LSE: RS1), a global provider of product and service solutions for industrial customers, with over 80 years of technological expertise, is set to participate in the MTE Show in Jwaneng, Botswana, on the 8th of March 2024.
With a legacy spanning over 80 years, RS is a global distributor specialising in a diverse range of services, including Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) solutions for Corporates and Industrial customers. The company's commitment to technological excellence has positioned it as an industry leader, offering comprehensive solutions that cater to the unique needs of businesses worldwide.
MRO procurement encompasses a wide range of products and services, including spare parts, consumables, tools, safety equipment, maintenance services, and facility management services. These items are essential to ensure the smooth operation, reduced downtime and upkeep of a company's assets. The concept of MRO procurement involves optimising the supply chain to ensure the timely availability of required items while minimising process costs. This includes activities such as identifying reliable suppliers, negotiating favourable contracts, managing inventory levels and streamlining the procurement process.
One of the key highlights of RS MRO solution (https://apo-opa.co/4bFc2I9) is the seamless automation of the purchasing process, streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency for businesses. By incorporating cutting-edge procurement technology, RS ensures that MRO tasks are executed with precision and speed, delivering optimal results for its clients.
Prosper Shoniwa, Exports Sales Manager at RS South Africa, emphasises the company's commitment to providing top-notch MRO solutions: "At RS, we take pride in being pioneers in the MRO space on the continent. Our consolidated MRO offerings and the automation solutions showcase our dedication to efficiency, reliability, and innovation. We invite all forward-thinking corporations to join us at the MTE Show and explore how RS can add substantial value to their operations."
RS collaborates with the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) globally for extensive research, ensuring its solutions remain at the forefront of industry innovation. CIPS is a global professional body that sets the standard for excellence in procurement and supply management. This collaboration enhances RS ' procurement and supply chain practices, providing access to industry-leading research, best practices, and expertise, ultimately adding value to the customers' operations.
Sharleen Naicker, Digital Marketing Executive, and Charles Nkogatse, Internal Key Account Manager, key representatives from RS, will be present at the MTE Show, ready to engage in discussions with businesses looking to enhance their MRO capabilities. They will be available to share insights into how RS can serve as a strategic partner for companies seeking innovative MRO solutions.
RS recognises the importance of MRO procurement and offers a comprehensive range of products and services to support organisations in this area. Through our vast product portfolio, including our in-house brand, RS Pro, we enable customers to source MRO products efficiently, helping them maintain their operations, reduce downtime, and control costs.
For those interested in delving deeper into RS MRO solutions and strategic partnerships, a comprehensive whitepaper, based on research conducted in collaboration with CIPS, is available for download from the RS website: https://apo-opa.co/4bKTIgI.
For more information on the diverse solutions that can add value to your operations, visit https://Africa.RSdelivers.com/.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of RS South Africa.
PR Contact Person – RS South Africa:
Princess Tlou
Communications & Content Specialist
Africa Exports
Princess.Tlou@rsgroup.com
+27 11 691 9366
Media Contact Person – NGAGE:
Thobile Ndlovu
PR Account Executive
thobile@ngage.co.za
+27 11 867 7763
Further information is available via these links:
Twitter : https://apo-opa.co/3T0ICwS
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3I5UIyE
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3T2j16J
RS Africa Exports: https://apo-opa.co/42GY3gZ
RS South Africa: https://apo-opa.co/48m0si7
DesignSpark: https://apo-opa.co/4bJaCwo
RS Group plc: https://apo-opa.co/49isz2Z
About RS Group:
RS is a trading brand of RS Group plc, providing product and service solutions that help our customers design, build, maintain, repair and operate industrial equipment and operations, safely and sustainably. We stock more than 750,000 industrial and electronic products, sourced from over 2,500 leading suppliers, and provide a wide range of product and service solutions to 1.1 million customers.
We support customers across the product lifecycle, whether via innovation and technical support at the design phase, improving time to market and productivity at the build phase, or reducing purchasing costs and optimising inventory in the maintenance, repair and operation phase. We offer our customers tailored product and service propositions that are essential for the successful operation of their businesses and help them save time and money.
RS Group plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange with stock ticker RS1 and in the year ended 31 March 2023 reported revenue of £2,982 million.
Africa dominates list of the world’s 20 fastest-growing economies in 2024—African Development Bank says in macroeconomic report
Report forecasts stronger growth for Africa in 2024, outpacing projected global average; Continent is second-fastest-growing region after Asia.
Africa will account for eleven of the world's 20 fastest-growing economies in 2024, the African Development Bank Group said in its latest Macroeconomic Performance and Outlook (MEO) of the continent released on Friday.
Overall, real gross domestic product (GDP) growth for the continent is expected to average 3.8% and 4.2% in 2024 and 2025, respectively. This is higher than projected global averages of 2.9% and 3.2%, the report said.
The continent is set to remain the second-fastest-growing region after Asia.
The top 11 African countries projected to experience strong economic performance forecast are Niger (11.2%), Senegal (8.2%), Libya (7.9%), Rwanda (7.2%), Cote d'Ivoire (6.8%), Ethiopia (6.7%), Benin (6.4%), Djibouti (6.2%), Tanzania (6.1%), Togo (6%), and Uganda at 6%.
“Despite the challenging global and regional economic environment, 15 African countries have posted output expansions of more than 5%,” Bank Group President Dr Akinwumi Adesina said, calling for larger pools of financing and several policy interventions to further boost Africa's growth.
Africa's Macroeconomic Performance and Outlook, a biannual publication released in the first and third quarters of each year, complements the existing African Economic Outlook (AEO), which focuses on key emerging policy issues relevant to the continent's development.
The MEO report provides an up-to-date evidence-based assessment of the continent's recent macroeconomic performance and short-to-medium-term outlook amid dynamic global economic developments.
The latest report is calling for cautious optimism given the challenges posed by global and regional risks. These risks include rising geopolitical tensions, increased regional conflicts, and political instability—all of which could disrupt trade and investment flows, and perpetuate inflationary pressures.
President Adesina emphasised that fiscal deficits have improved, as faster-than-expected recovery from the pandemic helped shore up revenue.
He explained further: “This has led to a stabilisation of the average fiscal deficit at 4.9% in 2023, like 2022, but significantly less than the 6.9% average fiscal deficit of 2020. The stabilisation is also due to the fiscal consolidation measures, especially in countries with elevated risks of debt distress.”
He cautioned that with the global economy mired in uncertainty, the fiscal positions of the African continent will continue to be vulnerable to global shocks.
The report shows that the medium-term growth outlook for the continent's five regions is slowly improving, a pointer to the continued resilience of Africa's economies.
Presenting the key findings of the report, the African Development Bank's Chief Economist and Vice President, Prof. Kevin Urama said: “Growth in Africa's top-performing economies has benefitted from a range of factors, including declining commodity dependence through economic diversification, increasing strategic investment in key growth sectors, and rising both public and private consumption, as well as positive developments in key export markets.”
He added: “Africa's economic growth is projected to regain moderate strength as long as the global economy remains resilient, disinflation continues, investment in infrastructure projects remains buoyant, and progress is sustained on debt restructuring and fiscal consolidation.”
“The future of Africa rests on economic integration. Our small economies are not competitive in the global market. A healthy internal African trade market can ensure value-added and intra-African production of manufactured goods,” said Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals, African Union Commission, Ambassador Albert Muchanga.
He assured that the MEO forecast, and recommendations will be made available to African heads of state and that the report will be useful when the African Union makes its proposals to the G20- an informal gathering of many of the world's largest economies to which the African Union was admitted last year.
The improved growth figure for 2024 reflects concerted efforts by the continent's policymakers to drive economic diversification strategies focused on increased investment in key growth sectors, as well as the implementation of domestic policies aimed at consolidating fiscal positions and reversing the increase in the cost of living and boosting private consumption.
Speaking remotely, Zimbabwe's Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Prof Mthuli Ncube described the report as being “on point” and consistent with the reality in his country, describing it as useful for economic planning across Africa. He urged the African Development Bank to continue its thought leadership to help policymakers continue to build resilience to withstand shocks and drive growth.
Ncube said: “Zimbabwe expects slower growth due to climate shocks in the region. Southern African countries depend on agriculture for economic growth, so climate-proofing agriculture is key. We are in talks with creditors to restructure its debt, which is slowing economic growth. Internally, the country will focus on economic and governance reforms and reforms around property rights to increase agricultural production.”
Up to 41 countries across the continent will in 2024, achieve an economic growth rate of 3.8%, and in 13 of them, growth will be more than 1 percentage point higher than in 2023.
Director of the Center for Sustainable Development, Columbia University Prof Jeffrey Sachs noted that long-term affordable financing must be part of Africa's strategy to achieve growth of 7% or more per year and warned that Africa is paying a very high-risk premium for debt financing. He called for this point to be made to the G20.
“Long-term development cannot be based on short-term loans. Loans to Africa should be at least 25 years or longer. Short-term borrowing is dangerous for long-term development. Africa must act as one, in scale,” he explained.
Sachs, who is also the UN Secretary-General António Guterres' Advocate for Sustainable Development Goals also called for a much larger African Development Bank, better resourced to meet Africa's financing needs.
Overview of economic outlook across regions
The confluence of shocks notwithstanding, the resilience of the continent's economies remains strong, with positive growth projected for the continent's five regions.
- East Africa: East Africa will continue to lead Africa's growth momentum, with growth projected to rise to 5.1% in 2024 and 5.7% in 2025, supported by strong strategic investments to improve internal connectivity and deepen intra-regional trade.
- North Africa: Successive adverse weather conditions and macroeconomic challenges will hold the region's growth steady at 3.9% in 2024 with a slight improvement to 4.1% in 2025.
- Central Africa: Growth is forecast to moderate to 3.5% in 2024 but projected recovery in private consumption and increases in mining investment and exports could help push growth to 4.1% in 2025.
- Southern Africa: Growth will remain sluggish at 2.2 and 2.6% in 2024 and 2025, respectively. This reflects continued economic weakness in South Africa, the region's largest economy.
- West Africa: Growth is projected to pick up to 4 and 4.4% in 2024 and 2025 respectively. Strong growth in most countries in the region is projected to offset slowdowns in Nigeria and Ghana. The announced withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) casts a shadow over the sustainability of gains amid growing uncertainty.
Driving faster and more sustainable economic growth
The 2024 MEO says in the short term, tackling persistent inflation will need a mix of restraining monetary policy coupled with fiscal consolidation and stable exchange rates.
The report identifies structural reforms and strategic industrial policies as key to accelerating economic diversification and strengthening the export sector.
It recommends that countries invest more in human capital and pursue a resource-based industrialisation and diversification strategy that allows the continent to exploit its comparative advantage and build resilience to shocks.
- 2024 Macroeconomic Performance and Outlook (https://apo-opa.co/3UHdVhm)
- President Adesina's speech (https://apo-opa.co/49H7oaV)
- Pictures (https://apo-opa.co/48jUVZu)
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
Media Contact:
Emeka Anuforo
Communication and External Relations Department
media@afdb.org
About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 34 African countries with an external office in Japan, the AfDB contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org