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Pretoria, South Africa – 27 September 2023: Having waded through numerous rivers, conquering treacherous mountain passes, and powering through vast open plains, the Kingsley Holgate Foundation has reached its first major milestone in its Afrika Odyssey Expedition: approximately 1 700 mosquito nets distributed in Angola, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe, constituting the Southern …
Dear Editor DASO notes with great disappointment and disdain the racist and violent actions of the Economic Freedom Fighters Student Command (EFFSC) and the Economic Freedom Fighters(EFF) at the University of Pretoria. In light of the rightful disqualification of their SRC candidates, the EFFSC illegally protested around the Hatfield campus of the University of Pretoria …
Police record successes in dealing with criminal syndicates
Police Minister Bheki Cele says the police are pushing back against crime in the country, and flushing out ruthless and greedy organised criminal syndicates.
“The work of the South African Police Service (SAPS) has, through intelligence-led operations and weekly high density operations, resulted in the arrest of thousands of criminals, especially dangerous and hardened criminals,” Cele said at a briefing in Pretoria on Tuesday.
The Minister outlined some of the successes achieved by the police in dealing with crime in the country.
He said assets worth millions of rands have been recovered and firearms have been removed off the streets.
“These covert operations have also resulted in multiple deaths of suspects who violently resisted arrest,” Cele said.
Cele said some of the meticulously conducted take-downs should renew hope in the country, that the men and women in blue are gaining ground against crime and continue to flush out criminality in both affluent and impoverished areas of society.
“South Africans on various platforms have welcomed the bolstered and decisive policing efforts by the SAPS, who are going toe-to-toe with criminals.
“But in the same breath, we are also aware that the SAPS triumph over crime is a bitter pill to swallow by some,” the minister said.
Cele said crime intelligence information remains central in the take-down of armed and ruthless gangs.
Cele said in the past week alone, police have registered a number of successes, including the latest take down of cash-in-transit heist suspects in Hoedspruit, Limpopo, where four suspects were killed and three suspects arrested.
“We would like to take this opportunity to appreciate the working relationship with the Hoedspruit Farmwatchers, who worked closely with the SAPS in taking down this syndicate.
“Among those arrested was a most wanted suspect, a Mozambican national, linked to the murder of a police officer, a spate of car hijackings, house and business robberies and fraud cases. Police seized one pistol, a rifle and some of the stolen money,” the Minister said.
Provincial overview
Among the successes achieved by the police include, in Gauteng, a multidisciplinary team led by the Anti-Kidnapping Task Team, rescued an 18-year-old Wits University student from a kidnapping syndicate last Wednesday.
The syndicate had been targeting the LGBTQI+ community through a popular dating app. Police have broken the back of this particular kidnapping syndicate, which has so far been linked to over 50 kidnappings, where ransom demands were being made.
In KwaZulu-Natal, following a shooting incident which resulted in the fatal shooting of five men at a parking lot in a shopping centre in Richards Bay on the 19th September 2023, police - 24 hours later - acted on information and traced two suspects to an upmarket estate in Ballito, where a shootout ensued.
The pair were shot and killed during a take-down operation, which involved specialised units of the SAPS, including the National Intervention Unit (NIU).
One of the suspects was on the police’s wanted list and being investigated in a number of cases. One suspect is being sought by the police.
In the Eastern Cape, police arrested a gang that had robbed a store of R1 million worth of jewellery.
Just hours later, police followed up on information and tracked down and arrested all 10 suspects, following a crime intelligence-driven operation. All the stolen jewellery was recovered, as well as four firearms. The syndicate is linked to numerous other similar heists across the country.
In Carolina, Mpumalanga, the illicit mining task team shutdown an illegally operated coal mine and seized mining equipment worth over R60 million, as well as coal worth R12 million.
A mine manager was arrested and a manhunt is underway for the mine owner.
In Khutsong, Gauteng province, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) - under Operation Gillette - arrested nine suspects for illegal mining and they attached, through a preservation order, 58 properties (51 vehicles, including luxury vehicles and seven houses) to the value of over R17 million. They will be appearing in court on 29 September 2023.
In the Northern Cape, 867 illegal miners were arrested during an intelligence driven operation in the Namakwa region on Tuesday, 19 September 2023. The area, which is a hotspot for illegal mining activities, is being closely monitored, and police are working closely with other relevant departments to combat illegal mining activities. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 09/26/2023 - 12:21
College Rovers and Naka Bulle powered their way to impressive victories over the weekend to secure home ground advantage in the African Rainbow Community Gold Cup semi-finals. Meanwhile, the Northam Rhinos continued their high-scoring run, and Crusaders claimed a win away from home to advance to the penultimate round. The Rhinos have been the most …
First of all you will need to directly ask your electrician if he/she is a registered master or installation electrician and for their registration numbers for themselves and their business. To verify the above, you can: Visit the website of the Electrical Conformance Board of South Africa (ECBSA) – https://electrician.org.za/ – and search for your …
Have your say on draft conservation policy
Members of the public are invited to submit their comments on the draft Policy Position on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Elephant, Lion, Leopard and Rhinoceros.
This after the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, published the draft policy in the Government Gazette.
“The draft Policy Position is informed by the White Paper on Conservation and Sustainable Use of South Africa’s Biodiversity, which was published for implementation on 14 June 2023, under Government Notice No. 3537, Government Gazette, No. 48785; the High Level Panel (HLP) report; the recommendations of the Committee of Inquiry (CoI) that was appointed to advise on the possibility of proposing legal interventions on international trade in rhino horn to the 17th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), and the Colloquium Report on captive lion breeding for hunting.
“The draft Policy Position focuses primarily on correcting unsustainable practices, promoting conservation and sustainable use of the five species (elephant, lion leopard, black and white rhinoceros), and providing policy direction for international commercial trade,” the department said.
According to the department, the draft policy proposes “three conservation and sustainable use policy objectives to enhance species management”, as well as three international commercial trade-related policy objectives.
These are:
Members of the public are invited to submit, within thirty (30) days from the date of publication of this Notice in the Government Gazette or in the newspaper, whichever date is the last date, written comments to this Notice, to any of the following addresses:
By mail: The Director-General: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Attention: Dr Tsepang Makholela
Private Bag X447
PRETORIA
0001
By hand at: Environment House, 473 Steve Biko Street, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0001
By e-mail to: policyposition@dffe.gov.za
Any inquiries in connection with this notice or in connection with obtaining a copy of the Socio-Economic Impact Assessment Study (SEIAS) on the draft Policy Position, can be directed to Dr Tsepang Makholela at 071 608 4556. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 09/24/2023 - 15:09
UIF task team to intervene in Belville Labour Centre
The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) has dispatched a task team to the Bellville Labour Centre to intervene in concerns that have come to light through a media article about UIF payments and related matters at the centre.
UIF Commissioner Teboho Maruping said on Friday: “We need to have a thorough understanding of the specific issues on the ground so that we can intervene swiftly. It bothers me when I hear that workers are struggling to get what is due to them. Whatever the issue, it will be addressed. I will take it upon myself to see to it.”
The fund said the task team, which is from the UIF head office in Pretoria, is expected to “establish facts and submit a report to [Maruping] within a week”.
“In recent times, the UIF has introduced various mechanisms to improve customer experience, including mobile buses, queue management, kiosks, online application platforms, free Wi-Fi at all labour centres, a data free mobile application, as well as a free USSD platform that can be used on any mobile device from anywhere,” the fund said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 09/24/2023 - 14:52
Deputy President to open UNESCO engineering conference
Deputy President Paul Mashatile is expected to deliver a keynote address when engineers from across the globe gather from Monday at the UNESCO 9th Africa Engineering Week and 7th Africa Engineering Conference at the CSIR in Pretoria.
According to the Presidency, the event will be held under the theme, 'Celebrating and Growing Engineering Excellence in the African Region' and seeks to celebrate engineering excellence prevalent in the African continent.
“The Deputy President will be supported by the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Sihle Zikalala, as the host department; Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa; Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Bhuti Manamela, as well as Governors and Ministers from the African continent.
“The event will feature the who is who of the engineering fraternity in Africa and abroad, who will be attempting to solve the world and the African continent’s pressing challenges.
“Furthermore, scores of aspiring engineers from South Africa will also get the opportunity to obtaining knowledge and skills,” the Presidency said.
Meanwhile on Tuesday, the Deputy President is expected to convene an engagement with inter-faith leaders to “strengthen existing partnerships with the faith sector towards the country’s social cohesion and nation-building project”.
“The engagement will consider practical steps towards institutionalising partnership between government and inter-faith leaders as part of the Deputy President’s delegated responsibilities. It will also address the challenges and seek to resolve issues raised by the inter-faith community.
“The Deputy President will be supported by the Ministers of Social Development and Sport, Arts and Culture; Deputy Minister of Social Development, Premier of Gauteng Province and senior government officials,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 09/24/2023 - 08:48
2023 Street Lines Skate Tournament Announced It’s back! The highly anticipated Street Lines Skate Tournament, presented by LW Mag and Dragon Energy Drink in association with Dickies, Garmin and GoPro, returns to Thrashers Skatepark for the third time on 30 September 2023. The country’s best skaters will battle it out for their share of …
Pretoria’s Premier Arborist Offers Comprehensive Tree Felling, Stump Grinding, and Emergency Tree Removal Services Pretoria, 22 September 2023 – Super Green Tree Felling Pretoria, a renowned arborist and family tree specialist in the region, is pleased to announce its comprehensive range of services, including emergency tree felling, stump grinding, and tree pruning, ensuring the safety …
Tea and Scones – a signature Walkersons delight When it comes to indulging in British culinary traditions, the charming ‘afternoon tea’ tradition of with tea and scones stands out as a quintessential delight. Synonymous with leisurely gatherings, the appreciation of fine teas and a delectable array of tea-time treats, afternoon tea originated in 19th century …
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Ms Barbara Dallas Creecy, hereby gives notice of her publication of the draft Policy Position on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Elephant, Lion, Leopard and Rhinoceros (the draft Policy Position), in the Government Gazette 49322 (Notice No. 3889). A copy of the Government Notice is available at www.gpwonline.co.za(link is external) or https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/202309/49322gon3889....
The draft Policy Position is informed by the White Paper on Conservation and Sustainable Use of South Africa's Biodiversity which was published for implementation on 14 June 2023, under Government Notice No. 3537, Government Gazette, No. 48785; the High Level Panel (HLP) report; the recommendations of the Committee of Inquiry (CoI) that was appointed to advise on the possibility of proposing legal interventions on international trade in rhino horn to the 17th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES); and the Colloquium report on captive lion breeding for hunting.
The draft Policy Position focuses primarily on correcting unsustainable practices, promoting conservation and sustainable use of the five species (elephant, lion leopard, black and white rhinoceros), and providing policy direction for international commercial trade. It proposes three conservation and sustainable use policy objectives to enhance species management as follows:
(a) To end the captive keeping of lions for commercial purposes and close captive lion facilities, put a halt to the intensive breeding of lion in controlled environments, and end the commercial exploitation of captive and captive-bred lions;
(b) To phase out the domestication and intensification of management of rhinoceros; and
(c) To enhance the conservation and sustainable use of leopard.
The draft Policy Position also proposes three international commercial trade-related policy objectives as follows:
(a) To promote live export of the five species only to range states or any other appropriate and acceptable destinations with suitable habitats on the African continent;
(b) South Africa will work with range states to support a proposal for international commercial trade in rhinoceros horn from protected wild rhinoceros, for conservation purposes, when conditions become favourable; and
(c) Consider international commercial elephant ivory trade only when conditions become favorable.
Members of the public are invited to submit, within thirty (30) days from the date of publication of this Notice in the Government Gazette or in the newspaper, whichever date is the last date, written comments to this Notice, to any of the following addresses:
By post to: The Director-General: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Attention: Dr Tsepang Makholela
Private Bag X447
PRETORIA
0001
By hand at: Environment House, 473 Steve Biko Street, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0001
By e-mail to: policyposition@dffe.gov.za(link sends e-mail)
Any inquiries in connection with this Notice or in connection with obtaining a copy of the Socio-Economic Impact Assessment Study (SEIAS) on the draft Policy Position, can be directed to Dr Tsepang Makholela at +27 71 608 4556.
Comments or inputs received after the closing date may be disregarded.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.
Applications open for bursaries in environmental field
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has invited full-time students to apply for bursaries, to be awarded in the 2024 academic year, in various fields of study.
The department said the minimum requirements to apply for the bursary is Grade 12, and consideration will be given to previously disadvantaged and people with disabilities, who are South African citizens.
“This advert only applies to full-time students enrolled with an institution of higher learning or currently doing Grade 12 (Matric) and not employed. Please indicate clearly on the application form the reference number and the study field,” the department said in a statement.
The bursaries will be awarded to students in study fields including Environmental Programmes; Forestry Management; Regulatory Compliance Sector Monitoring; Fisheries Management; Oceans and Coasts; Biodiversity and Conservation; Climate Change and Air Quality Management, and Chemicals and Waste Management.
The maximum amount of the bursary is R50 000.
The department said students who have previously participated in the public service internship programme are not eligible for consideration.
“Upon completion of your studies, participation in the internship programme is mandatory, as part of the bursary contract agreement. It is important to note that regulations prohibit participation in the programme more than once,” the department said.
All applications should be accompanied by the following documents:
• Motivation as to why the bursary should be awarded to you.
• Certified copies of qualifications and recent academic records.
• Certified copies of Identity Document (applicant and both parents or guardians).
• Proof of registration (if already enrolled with an institution of higher learning).
• Latest Grade 12 results (if currently in high school).
• Proof of parents or guardians' income.
• Proof if parents are deceased.
• Affidavit if parents are not working.
Hand deliveries or courier applications should be sent to:
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Environment House
473 Steve Biko Street
Cnr Steve Biko and Soutpansberg Road Arcadia
Pretoria
OR
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
63 Strand Street
13th Floor Nedbank Building
Cape Town
For enquiries, applicants should contact Joshua Moepya on 012 399 8682/067 417 3739; Busisiwe Stemele on 012 399-8685/066 156 0042; Mokhobo Putu on 012 399 9018/066 081 2662; Kgomotso Moela on 021 402 3329/081 492 5570; Mooketsa Mabe on 021 402 3412/ 071 540 2685 and Neliswa Magwala 021 814 8089/066 081 9858.
The postal address is: The Director-General (for the attention of the Learning and Development - Bursary Section), Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Private Bag X447, Pretoria, 0001.
Applications closes on 27 October 2023. Faxed or emailed applications will not be accepted.
“Correspondence will be limited to successful applicants only. If you have not been contacted by end of January 2024, please accept that your application was unsuccessful,” the department said.
Successful applicants will be expected to sign a bursary contract. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/22/2023 - 10:16
Gauteng launches Khanya Lesedi Sports School of Specialisation
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has officially lunched Khanya Lesedi Sports School of Specialisation in Ratanda, Heidelberg.
Khanya Lesedi is a distinguished public school with a rich history of academic excellence, sport achievements, artistic endeavors and social development.
Established in January 1898, the school has consistently excelled in sports disciplines such as soccer, netball and athletics, and it has proudly represented the Sedibeng cluster at the district, provincial, national and even international levels.
Chiloane said it is encouraging that students have the privilege of interacting with sports icons and legends, who offer coaching clinics and guidance based on their respective sports.
“Community involvement is encouraged, allowing local residents to access school facilities. This collaboration also holds the promise of revitalising the township economy, drawing spectators and boosting local businesses as outside communities come to witness sporting events at the school,” Chiloane said.
The school is home to many of South Africa’s successful athletes such as the late world 400m champion, Moses Mabaso, who earned National Springbok colors during his time at the school, ultimately receiving a scholarship at Waterkloof in Pretoria.
In a subsequent decade, twin athletes from the school represented the country in Botswana and Hungary. Among the school's standout athletes are Emma Manana, who excelled in events like 800m, 1500m, and cross-country for five consecutive years from 1990 to 1995, and John Tshabalala, an exceptional athlete in 5000m and cross-country for a similar duration.
More recently, Bontle Lekone and Thabang Dube represented South Africa in soccer in Italy, adding to the school's impressive athletic legacy.
Given this remarkable track record, Chiloane said Khanya Lesedi has earned its status as a Sports School of Specialisation, providing students with opportunities to nurture their talents alongside academic pursuits.
The school features a real racing track, through which learners can run various lengths of races, hurdles and marathons. Accessible at the school is also a tennis court, volleyball court, soccer pitch, basketball court, and various equipment that can be used for javelin, discus and long jump, among other athletic sports.
The MEC added that the specialised curriculum extends beyond physical activities, incorporating scientific innovation in physical health.
“Subjects like Sports Science and Exercise, Geography, Physical Science, and Life Science play vital roles in shaping various aspects of sports training, from pitch conditions to dietary requirements tailored to different sporting codes. ICT, coding and robotics are also taught at the school through our Multi-Certification Skills Programme,” the MEC said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 09/22/2023 - 10:24
UNIQ celebrates 10th store and first summer range The Shoprite Group has opened its 10th UNIQ store in Rosebank Mall, just in time to launch the clothing brand’s inaugural Spring/Summer collection. Offering quality clothing for the whole family, UNIQ focusses on simplicity, comfort, superior textiles and value. The new collection is a fresh take on …
As South Africa gears up for the much-anticipated Heritage Day, Uber is delighted to announce a special mobility activation that will allow South Africans and international visitors to connect with the country’s rich cultural heritage. From September 23rd to 30th, users will be able to enjoy discounted rides to some of the most iconic Heritage …
Repo rate remains unchanged
Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago has announced that the repo rate will remain unchanged at 8.25%.
Kganyago made the announcement in Pretoria on Thursday after a meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC).
He said South Africa’s load shedding has increased and prices for commodity exports continue to weaken. In the near term, stronger El Niño conditions threaten the agricultural outlook, while global climatic events present additional risks.
“Energy and logistical constraints remain binding on the growth outlook, limiting economic activity and increasing costs,” said the Governor.
The GDP growth forecast for 2024 and 2025 is unchanged from the previous meeting, at 1.0% and 1.1%, respectively.
Kganyago said oil prices have increased in recent months and commodity export prices have moderated further.
“South Africa’s external financing needs will increase as the current account deficit expands from a forecasted 2.0% of GDP this year (from 1.9%), to 3.0% of GDP in 2024 and to 3.4% of GDP in 2025.
“Sharply lower tax revenue, higher employee compensation and ongoing financing needs of state-owned enterprises are expected to keep the long-term cost of borrowing elevated. Despite the forecasted moderation of inflation, long-term bond yields currently trade around 12.6%.
“The rand has weakened over the past year, depreciating by about 10% year to date against the US dollar, and is showing high volatility in response to risk-on and risk-off episodes. The implied starting point for the rand forecast is R18.45 to the US dollar, compared with R18.13 at the time of the previous meeting.”
The trajectory of South Africa’s headline inflation rate has been shaped primarily by fuel and food prices.
“Risks to the inflation outlook are assessed to the upside. At a global level, headline inflation continues to moderate, but food price inflation remains high, oil markets have tightened significantly, and core inflation looks sticky.
“Despite recent easing in some food price components, domestic food price inflation was still elevated at 8% in August and the risk of drier weather conditions in coming months has increased.
“We expect food price inflation to moderate further in the near term, but with high risk that it picks up later in 2024. In the absence of sustained increases in energy supply, electricity prices continue to present clear inflation risks.
“Load-shedding and logistics constraints may also have broader effects on the cost of doing business and the cost of living. Given uncertain fuel and food price inflation, considerable risk still attaches to the forecast for average salaries.”
He said sticky inflation implies that average interest rates in major economies will remain high. As a result, tighter global financial conditions are likely to persist, raising the risk profile of economies needing foreign capital.
“Against this backdrop, the MPC decided to keep the repurchase rate at its current level of 8.25% per year,” he announced.
Three members of the committee preferred to keep rates on hold and two preferred an increase of 25 basis points.
“At the current repurchase rate level, policy is restrictive, consistent with the inflation outlook and elevated inflation expectations. Serious upside risks to the inflation outlook remain,” said Kganyago.
He added that decisions will continue to be data dependent and sensitive to the balance of risks to the outlook.
The next statement of the Monetary Policy Committee will be released on 23 November 2023. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Thu, 09/21/2023 - 15:39
RMB is proud to be one of the supporting partners of the upcoming World Masters Rowing Regatta at Roodeplaat Dam. The event is being held from 21 to 24 September. Close to 900 athletes from 40 countries will participate, supported by 50 national and international officials and thousands of fans from around the world. This …
Are you searching for the perfect preschool experience for your child? Look no further! Dibber International Preschools cordially invites all parents and caretakers to its Open Day on September 30th, from 9AM to 1PM. This is an excellent opportunity to explore the Dibber way of learning, discover world-class facilities, meet the dedicated staff, and learn …
In the realm of healthcare, precision is paramount. To deliver accurate diagnoses and perform intricate procedures, healthcare professionals rely on cutting-edge tools and equipment. Here, we delve into the world of healthcare services, focusing on the diverse range of offerings designed to enhance precision and patient care. Microscopes: Unveiling the Invisible Microscopes are the …
PIETERMARITZBURG: AET Tuskers registered an impressive win in their opening match in the top division, with a commanding nine-wicket victory over...
Pretoria September 20 2023 – Greentree Health proudly introduces its state-of-the-art Subacute and Rehabilitation facility, dedicated to helping patients achieve their highest level of independence in the shortest time possible. For those requiring continued care post-hospitalization, Greentree Subacute and Rehabilitation stands as a beacon of hope. The facility boasts a top-tier environment, complemented by a …
Department and police fail to answer questions because they are still investigating three years later
Africa ready for new investment – President Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa has told American business representatives that Africa is ready for new investment and strong partnerships.
The President was delivering remarks at the US - South Africa Trade and Investment Business Roundtable Dialogue in New York on Monday.
“Africa is ready for new investment and strong partnerships. South Africa is well positioned as the continent’s industrial centre, with deep capital markets, the rule of law, protection of property rights and a dynamic and youthful population.
“The significant presence of US companies operating in South Africa, including Ford, Coca-Cola, Pepsico, Procter & Gamble, Google, Amazon and Walmart, among many others, forms a base for increased investment,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa said he was pleased to hear that the US Africa Business Council and BUSA will be hosting the inaugural business and investment forum on the margins of the AGOA Forum scheduled to be held in South Africa in November 2023.
He said this platform will present the countries’ respective governments, private sectors and civil society with numerous opportunities to advance trade and investment relations.
“I look forward to our discussions and encourage your candid views. I also look forward to welcoming all of the companies present here today to South Africa in November this year during the AGOA Forum… I look forward to building and strengthening business relationships that will accelerate growth, enable commercial success and ensure prosperity for both our countries,” President Ramaphosa said.
Global prosperity
The President told the business representatives that global prosperity has been founded on greater levels of openness and engagement between nations and people.
He said in recent decades, a more open, rules-based trading system, complemented by deeper levels of cross-border investment, has helped to sustain and grow global GDP.
He said it has helped to increase employment in many countries and spur innovation and new technologies.
“Yet, the heightened tension of this moment has led to fragmentation, hostility and increasing protectionism. For South Africa, a divided world is not a good thing. We are a trading nation, with above average trade-to-GDP ratios. A significant part of our economic growth is driven by exports.
“We believe that the voices advocating greater dialogue and continued economic engagement between nations need to be strengthened,” he said.
Trade and investment agenda
Turning to the trade and investment agenda, President Ramaphosa said that they are finalising the modalities for the imminent launch of trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
“We expect that the first goods to be traded under this free trade pact would commence within the next six months or sooner. The AfCFTA, as it is called, will cover 1.3 billion consumers in countries possessing some of the world’s most valuable minerals and raw materials,” he said.
South Africa is working with the US Administration to make the case for the extension of AGOA to current beneficiary countries for a further period of 10 years, prior to its expiry in 2025, President Ramaphosa said.
He emphasised that the US remains a very important economic partner in trade and investment, with great potential to further expand economic ties.
Accompanying this trade agenda, the President said government has embarked on far-reaching economic reforms, including the energy market being restructured.
Economic reform agenda
Turning to the economic reforms agenda, President Ramaphosa said the country is also focusing on expanding its industrial capacity.
“The availability of critical raw materials in South Africa and in neighbouring countries is driving efforts to expand high-value manufacturing. This is a real opportunity for more US investment that can leverage off the demonstrated manufacturing base of South Africa.
“African growth rates provide a stable growth in aggregate demand over the next decade and more,” he said.
The recently published African Economic Outlook for 2023 noted: “Growth is projected to rebound to 4% in 2023 and consolidate at 4.3% in 2024, underpinning Africa’s continued resilience to shocks.”
The report goes on to say that Africa is endowed with 30% of the world’s mineral resources and 65% of the world’s uncultivated arable land, the world’s most productive forests both in timber and carbon retention resources, and ample solar, wind and hydropower.
“With this kind of potential, savvy investors will be expanding… their base in South Africa and the rest of the continent.
“Our economic reform agenda also includes targeted measures to open the market for more South Africans to participate,” he said.
The President told the business leaders that South Africa has increased its target for its investment drive to R2 trillion over the next five years.
“To appreciate the great opportunities in our economy, I invite you to the next South Africa Investment Conference, to be held in March 2024,” he said.
The investment drive includes an expansion of Special Economic Zones, the most recent of which was built around the Ford Motor Company plant in the capital city, Pretoria. Around 10 large factories now produce components for the scaled-up Ford plant. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 09/19/2023 - 11:39