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Solar power supplied 67% of all electricity used in February this year at three of leading South African truck body and trailer building company, Serco’s factories and offices in South Africa. And Serco’s goal is to push that figure up to 75% following further investment to raise the ratio even higher in the medium to …
Johannesburg, South Africa, April 2024: Nespresso aims to continue to support the local community and economy by investing 20 million USD spent across coffee purchases, price premiums and technical assistance, by 2026 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), helping to give coffee farmers access to the global markets. The ambition is also to help …
South Africa boasts a thriving food manufacturing industry that plays a crucial role in supplying the nation with a wide variety of food products. From juice powders to milk powder, soups to gravy, and an array of other items, this sector is diverse and essential to meet the dietary needs of the population. In this …
Five-time King of the Hill winner and reigning champion Franco Scribante to face intense onslaught once again from rivals, including 2023 runner-up Reghard Roets Addition of new class for street-legal tuned or modified cars further broadens the appeal and interest in this thrilling event 14th edition of the Simola Hillclimb takes place in Knysna from […]
MSG, owner of Power FM, channelled the money for the National Lotteries Commision
Navigating the world of kosher certification can be a complex journey, whether you’re a business seeking to get kosher certified or a consumer looking for authentic kosher products. Understanding the nuances of different kosher certifications, such as getting a Kosher Certification, is vital for ensuring compliance and authenticity in kosher food production and consumption. Kosher …
Mathe Group’s Hammarsdale facility, which recycles approximately 1 000 radial truck tyres per day to produce 45 tons of rubber crumb, is a pivotal export hub. Although many of its products are distributed internationally, the innovative rubber flooring solutions which helped establish this growing company in the first place, continue to highlight its global reach …
Decorating a room is always exciting, but nothing comes quite as close as the joy of decorating a nursery. But a precious new life also comes with great responsibility, including creating a nurturing environment for the latest member of the family. There are ways to ensure this becomes a reality – one of which is …
Trina Solar (https://www.TrinaSolar.com/), a global leader in smart PV and energy storage solutions, has announced its partnership with China Energy International Group and China Gezhouba Group to power Mooi Plaats 283MWdc ground photovoltaic power plant project in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa. The project is financed by EDF Renewables, in conjunction with South Africa's local financial institutes.
The signing ceremony, held to mark this significant collaboration, underscores Trina Solar's commitment to driving renewable energy forward in Africa. The project will harness the power of 416,325 panels from the NEG21C.20 Vertex N, with impressive efficiency up to 23.2%. These modules are based on the 210mm product technology platform and excel in power, efficiency, reliability, and levelized cost of energy (LCOE). With a project duration of 22 months, the power generated from Mooi Plaats project will be connected to the Koruson substation, 12 km away via a 132 kV transmission line.
"We are proud to partner with China Energy International Group and China Gezhouba Group to bring this groundbreaking project to fruition," said Bao Yang, President, Global Sales & Marketing at Trina Solar. “With a total capacity of 283MWdc, the Mooi Plaats PV Power Plant project is considered the largest single PV power plant project in South Africa and is set to make a substantial impact on the region's energy landscape. This collaboration exemplifies our shared commitment to driving sustainable development and powering the future of energy in South Africa." added Yang.
"We are excited to join forces with Trina Solar on this landmark project," said Hu Yuhong, General Manager at China Energy International Group South Africa. "This collaboration represents a significant step towards achieving our shared goal of promoting clean energy and sustainable development in South Africa."
Chen Zhipei, Project Manager of Mooi Plaats project, at China Gezhouba Group, commented, "As a leading player in the global energy sector, we are proud to contribute our expertise to this project, which will not only deliver clean, reliable power but also drive economic growth and job creation in the region."
The Launch of 283MWdc Mooi Plaats PV Power Plant project represents a major milestone in South Africa's new energy market, Trina Solar is honored to contribute its expertise and technology to this transformative project, which will not only accelerate South Africa's transition to clean energy but also create new opportunities for economic growth and environmental stewardship.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Trina Solar.
About Trina Solar:
Founded in 1997, Trina Solar Co Ltd (stock symbol: Trina Solar; stock code: 688599) is engaged mainly in PV products, PV systems and smart energy. PV products include R&D, production and sales of PV modules. PV systems consist of power stations and system products. Smart energy comprises mainly PV power generation and operations and maintenance, smart solutions for energy storage, smart microgrid, and development and sales of multi-energy systems. We are committed to leading the way in smart PV and energy storage solutions and facilitating the transformation of new power systems for a net-zero future.
On June 10, 2020, Trina Solar was listed on the Science and Technology Innovation Board (STAR Market) of the Shanghai Stock Exchange(SSE). It was the first PV and energy storage company to go public on the STAR Market providing PV products and systems, as well as smart energy. For more information, please visit www.TrinaSolar.com.
The businesses were chosen from 173 applications following a rigorous selection process. The chosen projects come from the energy, transportation, agriculture, forestry and other land uses, circular economy and water sectors.
The businesses concerned will receive tailored one-to-one and group support from financial, technical and gender equality and social inclusion experts to help increase their chances of securing finance from South African and international investors. For the first time, two separate cohorts have been created to trial providing capacity building to promising early-stage projects.
So far, almost a third of projects from the first two phases of CFA South Africa have found investment since participating in the programme.
British High Commissioner to South Africa, Antony Phillipson said:
"South Africa has a huge number of companies and organisations with innovative ideas on how to tackle climate change. Support provided to these projects will help them secure investment, deliver green growth and jobs and contribute to South Africa meeting its climate commitments."
The 10 core cohort projects will undertake intensive capacity building before pitching to investors at an event in July, which early-stage projects will also be invited to attend.
The 5 projects selected in the early-stage pilot will have the opportunity to attend elements of the core capacity building training and will be encouraged to share their experiences with members of the core cohort, who may act as mentors.
CEO of the National Business Initiative (NBI), Shameela Soobramoney said:
"NBI believes that identifying and supporting innovative, low carbon companies across key green economy sectors is not just a strategic initiative, but a moral imperative. These companies represent the vanguard of progress, offering solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing our country and the globe."
"Initiatives like CFA illustrate how targeted support, collaboration, innovation, and unwavering dedication can pave the way for a brighter, greener future for generations to come. If we don't create the future we want, the one we get will be worth infinitely less."
CEO of GreenCape (GC), Michael Mulachy said:
"Food systems, rare earth metal beneficiation, storage, e-mobility, waste and sanitation are all featured in this year's CFA finalists. This incredible cohort have solutions to some of the most pressing green economy challenges globally."
"Each finalist has found its niche in South Africa and has the potential to scale up rapidly – creating much needed jobs and investment in South Africa's green economy. The CFA programme has been an incredibly effective launch pad for these innovative green companies and GreenCape is eager to see the impact of this cohort."
The 10 core cohort projects are:
The 5 early-stage cohort projects are:
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of British High Commission Pretoria.
Agriculture in South Africa is growing. The primary agricultural sector has increased by an average of 7.5% per year since 2008, outpacing the total economy, which grew by 6.6% on average per year over the same period. Despite its relatively small share of the total GDP, primary agriculture is a significant provider of employment, and …
Call for inclusivity in efforts to grow biodiversity economy
President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that previously disadvantaged individuals and communities must be at the centre of efforts to fully harness the benefits of the biodiversity economy.
“We must put rural communities at the centre of every decision making process, and ensure we are empowering and equipping them for the new opportunities in the biodiversity sector,” President Ramaphosa said on Tuesday in Boksburg.
Addressing the Inaugural Biodiversity Economy and Investment Indaba, the President called on industry, finance institutions, philanthropies, civil society and traditional leaders, healers and practitioners to collectively embrace government’s vision for a transformed biodiversity economy.
“For us to fully harness the benefits of the biodiversity economy, we have to understand its scope and breadth. Work is underway to develop Natural Capital Accounting for the biodiversity sector.
“This is being done through a partnership between the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Statistics South Africa and the South African National Biodiversity Institute. This initiative will ensure that the contribution of the biodiversity sector, including its entire value chain, is formally recognised.”
He said today, sustainable use of biodiversity is a pillar of rural economies across South Africa, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs.
Beneficiation
“Sustainable biodiversity use also contributes to urban economies. For example, traditional medicine markets exist in nearly every major urban centre in South Africa.
“The trade in indigenous medicine plants is a multi-million-rand industry that supports jobs and livelihoods across the value chain. As a country, we have been firm that communities must benefit in a tangible manner when plant and animal species are harvested for commercial gain,” the President said.
He mentioned that Rooibos as a product is popular not just in South Africa but around the world.
“Four years ago, the first industry-wide benefits sharing agreement was launched between the South African Rooibos Industry and the Khoi and San Councils.
“This agreement has to date distributed a total amount of R28 million to the two councils in recognition of the communities’ indigenous knowledge of the Rooibos species.”
There must be tangible beneficiation in communities when indigenous plant species are harvested for commercial benefit, whether it is for medicine, cosmetics or other purposes.
“Sustainable mass cultivation of indigenous plant species must support the creation of businesses, factories and value chains that allow for end products to be exported to the rest of the continent and abroad.
“This mass cultivation can also assist land restoration and rehabilitation, as well as carbon sequestration, which is important in the context of climate change. To ensure a more holistic approach to access and benefit sharing, we are developing nurseries for the production of indigenous species, so these can be cultivated for medicinal and cosmetic purposes,” Ramaphosa said.
There are already a number of commercially successful game meat production facilities in several parts of the country.
“For many decades, fishing was the preserve of commercial enterprises only. This is something we are working hard to change. In January this year, we allocated 15-year fishing rights to the small-scale fishing sector in the four coastal provinces. We must build on this,” said the President.
Job creation
“Job creation must be at the centre of our efforts. As with our mineral resources, we cannot simply be mere exporters of raw materials so that jobs and industries can be created elsewhere. Jobs and opportunities must remain here, in South Africa, in our communities. This is what the revised Biodiversity Economy Strategy aims to address,” the President said.
He said when it comes to animal species, beneficiation must result in the establishment of community-run businesses, be they lodges or game meat butcheries and production facilities.
“We have a Game Meat Strategy that is focused on scaling economic enterprises for communities and previously disadvantaged individuals and providing land use patterns that are compatible with conservation.
“It aims to synergise our economic and conservation objectives by emphasising that a successful biodiversity economy must be linked to the restoration of ecosystems. It broadens the existing terrestrial goals and adds marine, coastal, estuarine and freshwater opportunities,” the President said.
Transformation
This strategy places the transformation of the biodiversity sector at the centre of efforts to fully harness the benefits of the biodiversity economy.
“Rural communities, disadvantaged individuals and traditional leaders must be part of devising new approaches to investment in community-owned land for biodiversity-based enterprises.
“The work to conserve and restore our biodiversity takes place as the world is experiencing the increasingly destructive effects of climate change. African countries are among the most vulnerable to the effects of a rapidly changing climate. They have to adapt and build resilience within the context of historically low levels of development and severely limited capacity,” the President said.
The Climate Change Bill, which is currently before the National Council of Provinces, seeks to enable a just transition towards a low-carbon, climate-resilient society.
“This just transition must contribute toward the creation of decent work for all, social inclusion and the eradication of poverty. A just transition puts people at the centre of decision making, especially those most affected by the transition, by empowering and equipping them for new opportunities of the future,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 03/26/2024 - 13:08
Fund launched to empower young tech entrepreneurs
A transformative fund to empower innovators and tech entrepreneurs from higher education institutions was officially launched by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on Monday.
The Higher Education Innovation Fund is aimed at students aspiring to become innovators and tech entrepreneurs emerging from Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and universities.
“This will be done through programmes that support general entrepreneurship, ideation, and design thinking,” said Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, speaking at the launch in Pretoria.
He informed the audience that the stakeholders aim to fill the gaps in the current set of tools and programmes available to support innovation and technology entrepreneurship nationwide.
“This will be done through, among others, supporting business model development, validation and development of tech-entrepreneurship, support commercialisation, market access and IP [intellectual property] protection, and supporting scale-up and investor readiness.”
According to Nzimande, there is a need for a well-coordinated, integrated and responsive innovation-entrepreneurship ecosystem to support student innovators and tech-entrepreneurship in higher education.
The parties are also looking at sufficiently funding an innovation-entrepreneurship ecosystem and for all partners to back the “ecosystem”.
In addition, the fund also aims to train and up-skill student tech entrepreneurs, who are capable of developing and commercialising competitive innovative products, and to support the establishment and management of sustainable tech-enterprises.
Unemployment
The department said the fund represents a beacon of hope in addressing youth unemployment, inequality, and poverty by fostering the growth of the knowledge economy.
While South Africa grapples with youth unemployment, Nzimande noted a concerning trend of increasing unemployment among graduates, as reported by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA).
He highlighted a few challenges that characterise innovation and entrepreneurship in the post-school education and training (PSET) sector, including poor coordination across the ecosystem, a weak culture of entrepreneurship and innovation, and a lack of support and networks at institutions of higher learning.
He raised concern about students’ limited exposure to entrepreneurial opportunities, mentoring and coaching, and a small number of innovation leaders in TVET colleges.
Another stumbling block, he added, was the lack of early seed funding and incentives.
“These challenges are more acute in TVET colleges and historically disadvantaged universities,” Nzimande said.
Background
The fund’s establishment process began with a Memorandum of Understanding signed between Nzimande's department and UNDP in 2021.
The Higher Education Innovation Fund is provided by the 2019 White Paper on Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI), which according to Nzimande, acknowledges the challenge of high youth unemployment in the country.
“Further to this, our Decadal Plan commits my department to transformation and inclusion of the marginalised, in terms of demographic, institutional and geographical transformation of the National System of Innovation.
“This is why innovation for inclusion is a theme that runs across all chapters of our Decadal Plan and overlaps with many of the Policy Intents of the White Paper on STI,” the Minister explained.
Nzimande’s department and the UNDP are the lead partners, while the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) recently joined as a co-funder and potential implementer of some programmes and looking for more donors.
“Equally important, in a couple of months, two calls for proposals will be publicised for interested parties with suitable programmes and expertise to apply," said the Minister.
Nzimande said they were looking to grow the Higher Education Innovation Fund to R1 billion.
He also used his platform to invite private sector companies and other funding institutions to come on board and help achieve this objective.
“The Higher Education Innovation Fund is a first for our PSET system and country. Also, this fund has great potential to become a game changer in terms of the production of student innovators and tech entrepreneurs and by extension, helping us to address the interconnected challenges of skills development and youth unemployment.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 03/25/2024 - 12:56
This year’s Integrated Resources Plan is horrifying
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 […]
Government harnessing Land Reform to support growth of agriculture and job creation
President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that government is actively implementing various programs and initiatives to enhance the effectiveness of land reform aimed at bolstering agricultural growth and to foster increased employment within the industry.
President Ramaphosa was responding to questions for oral reply in the National Assembly on Tuesday.
A Member of Parliament asked the President to elaborate on the integrated plan that government has in place to maintain growth and job creation in the agricultural sector through land reform.
“Government’s land reform programme is supported by several complementary programmes and initiatives to enable growth and job creation.
“Through these complementary programmes and initiatives, we are working to ensure that land reform is harnessed more effectively to support the growth of agriculture and agro-processing and to expand employment and livelihoods in this vital industry,” the President said.
The President told Members of Parliament that land reform is vital to the transformation of our society and to correct historical injustices.
He noted that redistribution, restitution and the provision of secure tenure also contribute to greater agricultural activity and enable more people to earn a living off farming.
President Ramaphosa highlighted that in May 2022, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development signed the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan with partners in business and labour.
Among many other things, the plan supports the acceleration of land reform and outlines actions that the private sector can take to support optimal use of land available to black farmers as a result of land reform projects.
These actions include support to black farmers and SMMEs at the processing level to have better access to domestic and export markets.
The plan also encourages large commercial farmers to participate voluntarily in the land reform programme by donating land to historically disadvantaged farmers or participating in joint ventures to facilitate linkages between small- and medium-scale farmers operating on a commercial basis.
“If the proposed interventions are implemented effectively, the social partners believe that by 2030, the agricultural sector can grow by an additional R32 billion above the ‘business-as-usual’ baseline.
“Through this plan, they intend to maintain the existing jobs in the sector and create 75,000 new jobs by 2030. For the economic potential of our land reform programme to be fully realised, we are prioritising broader rural development,” the President said.
The Integrated Rural Development Sector Strategy of 2023 aims, among other things, to revitalise the rural economy through investment in, and development of rural infrastructure.
This includes investment in roads, bridges and other transport infrastructure, water and irrigation schemes, public health and education.
The strategy also provides for support to industries that support rural development, including agriculture and agro-processing, mining, the digital economy, the ocean economy, tourism, arts and culture.
“Improvements in rural infrastructure are necessary if we are to reap the economic potential of land reform. Beneficiaries of the various land reform projects need to be able to access water resources, get their produce to market, participate in local economic activity and have ready access to funding and other support,” he said.
The President highlighted that the land reform programme is also supported by initiatives that support skills development and employment, particularly for the youth.
Through the National Rural Youth Service Corps (NARYSEC) government provides young people with the skills and capabilities to participate in the economy.
He explained that through such rural development initiatives, more than 1 100 jobs have been facilitated in the current financial year.
He further stated that through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, more than 180 000 agricultural production input vouchers have been issued to subsistence producers.
The Presidential Employment Stimulus has also worked with the provincial departments of agriculture and social partners to provide support to more than 62 000 subsistence and smallholder producers to strengthen self-employment and food security. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 15:02
Trina Solar (https://www.TrinaSolar.com/), a global leader in smart PV and energy storage solutions, proudly announces the commencement of the groundbreaking Springbok project in collaboration with SOLA and WBHO, marking a significant milestone in South Africa's renewable energy landscape. The signing ceremony for this monumental venture took place at Solar & Storage Live Africa, highlighting the importance of strategic partnerships in driving sustainable energy solutions. The Springbok project, located in South Africa's Free State province, is the first and largest privately developed n-type utility-scale project in the country with a capacity of 195MW, standing as a landmark initiative. It is also the first project in South Africa to serve multiple off-takers.
"At Trina Solar, we are proud to contribute to South Africa's renewable energy landscape through the Springbok Project, which will mark a significant milestone in the nation's sustainable journey. Empowering Africa's transition towards renewable energy is fundamental to our mission. Through innovation and technological advancement, we're committed to providing accessible and efficient solar solutions, that propel the continent towards a greener, net-zero future." - Yang Bao, President, Global Sales & Marketing at Trina Solar
This innovative project will harness the power of advanced n-type technology, with Trina Solar supplying a total of 331,200 panels of Vertex N series modules (NEG19RC.20). Leveraging the 210mm product technology platform, these modules excel in power, efficiency, reliability, and levelized cost of energy (LCOE), and have gained recognition among global customers. The Vertex N modules, renowned for their high energy yield, are poised to deliver exceptional performance across diverse settings and weather conditions, setting a new standard for utility-scale photovoltaic projects in South Africa.
"Trina Solar is proud to supply its advanced Vertex N modules for the pioneering Springbok project and thereby delivering substantial value to our customers," commented Zaheer Khan, Regional Director of Southern Africa at Trina Solar. "Our decision to utilize n-type modules emphasizes our dedication to providing high-performance solutions that optimize energy yield, reduce BOS and lower LCOE. We are confident that our modules will deliver unparalleled results, further solidifying South Africa's position as a leader in renewable energy adoption."
WBHO also shared their enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its transformative impact on South Africa's energy landscape."We are thrilled to be part of this groundbreaking initiative," added Derek Wallace, Managing Director of WBHO Construction's Projects Division. "The Springbok project not only demonstrates the potential of renewable energy but also highlights our commitment to fostering sustainable development and driving economic growth in South Africa."
Leveraging on the success of the pioneering 135MW Merak 1 Project, which marked the inception of our partnership with SOLA and WBHO, as well as this groundbreaking 195MW Springbok project, Trina Solar looks forward to continuing such long-term collaboration with both parties to harness the collective expertise and drive further innovation.
As South Africa continues its transition towards renewable energy, Trina Solar remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the nation's journey towards carbon neutrality. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, Trina Solar is playing a pivotal role in advancing the country's solar industry and contributing to global efforts to combat climate change. With the integrated n-type industrial chain, high-quality products, and excellent service, the company will keep contributing to a net-zero future.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Trina Solar.
About Trina Solar:
Founded in 1997, Trina Solar Co Ltd (stock symbol: Trina Solar; stock code: 688599) is engaged mainly in PV products, PV systems and smart energy. PV products include R&D, production and sales of PV modules. PV systems consist of power stations and system products. Smart energy comprises mainly PV power generation and operations and maintenance, smart solutions for energy storage, smart microgrid, and development and sales of multi-energy systems. We are committed to leading the way in smart PV and energy storage solutions and facilitating the transformation of new power systems for a net-zero future.
On June 10, 2020, Trina Solar was listed on the Science and Technology Innovation Board (STAR Market) of the Shanghai Stock Exchange(SSE). It was the first PV and energy storage company to go public on the STAR Market providing PV products and systems, as well as smart energy. For more information, please visit www.TrinaSolar.com.
More than four billion people (https://apo-opa.co/4aerFVs) worldwide will take part in elections this year, including in the US, UK, India, and South Africa. However, the increasing prevalence of disinformation, fuelled by the growing use of deepfakes and generative AI, means that politicians and voters alike will need to be on high alert.
In the 2024 Global Risks Report (https://apo-opa.co/3wRJRWs), the World Economic Forum identified AI-generated misinformation and disinformation as the second most significant global risk after extreme weather. This concern is well-founded, especially with the rapid rise of tools like generative AI empowered deepfakes, posing a threat to the integrity of democratic processes. Deepfakes, which are highly realistic fabricated videos or images, can deceive voters, manipulate public opinion, and tarnish the reputation of political parties and politicians.
Anna Collard, SVP Content Strategy and Evangelist at KnowBe4 AFRICA, a cybersecurity training organisation, says there has been a vast improvement in the quality of deepfakes over the past year, making them more convincing and difficult to identify. In a notable incident from October last year, cybercriminals used deepfake videos (https://apo-opa.co/4aewZYY) to impersonate African Union Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat during online conversations with European diplomats. Similarly, in December, Facebook removed over 100 deepfake paid advertisements (https://apo-opa.co/3TBfnkt) featuring British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak after nearly half a million people viewed them.
“Deepfakes pose major risks in the run-up to elections, both in the UK and South Africa,” says Collard. “Voters need to be aware of this risk and be proactive about mitigating their impact.”
Be aware of deepfakes
According to Collard, the initial step in combating the impact of misinformation and disinformation through deepfakes is raising awareness. “It's crucial for the public to be aware of the existence of this phenomenon,” she emphasises, adding, “The production of deepfake videos and images is cheap and easy.”
CounterCloud, a research project to showcase how easy it is to create fully automated (https://apo-opa.co/3wSNhZ0) disinformation campaigns, operated with a modest budget of only $400. Its goal was to counter negative depictions of the US propagated by Russian media. “If you're a politician, expect deepfakes impersonating you to appear in order to sway public opinion,” she asserts. “Similarly, voters should not believe everything they see or hear on social media to be true.”
Verify information
Apart from raising awareness, another crucial principle is to verify information. “If a politician purportedly said something that's deeply polarising, it's important to verify whether they genuinely said it.” To counter the risk of deepfakes, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), in collaboration with Media Monitoring Africa, has launched an initiative called Padre (https://apo-opa.co/3THIwux). This initiative allows voters to fact-check information regarding South African political parties and their recent statements.
Google's reverse-image search (https://images.Google.com/) is another helpful tool that enables you to check if an online image has been used elsewhere. Additionally, FotoForensics (https://FotoForensics.com/) provides a more in-depth analysis of images. However, despite these tools, verifying information remains challenging. “Deepfakes are becoming more convincing, making verifying information even harder,” states Collard.
Don't over-react
Lastly, when faced with inflammatory content, Collard stresses the importance of voters not overreacting. “Scammers want to whip up your emotions and get you in a state where you're unable to think rationally,” she says. “Stay calm and don't share content that is overly emotive. Whenever your emotions are triggered, slow down and verify, -it could be a hoax.”
Collard believes that it is every voter's responsibility to educate themselves about the dangers of deepfakes. “AI-generated fake content has huge implications for society, especially during election periods,” she says. “To combat this form of disinformation and safeguard the democratic process, social media platforms, political parties and independent watchdogs as well as us the public will all need to work together.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KnowBe4.
Principal Professional Officer for the City of Cape Town Caley Green announced the launch of the city's 2023 Infrastructure Report at a Masterclass during the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium of South Africa (SIDSSA) on March 17.
Evaluating the city's bulk infrastructure from the past year, the updated report builds on its predecessors by focusing on infrastructure across five sectors, including energy, solid waste, water and sanitation, human settlements and transport. According to Green, “The report provides an update on the bulk infrastructure pipeline of projects assessed in the first report. This new report addresses areas of greatest need and highest demand.”
The Masterclass was led by South Africa's Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala and a panel of experts who called on investors and role-players to support an infrastructure-led economic recovery plan in South Africa.
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/.
During the Masterclass, speakers provided insight into the challenges and opportunities within the country's infrastructure sector. With a focus on infrastructure investment planning, the session explored South Africa's strategy to build state capacity while delivering an aggressive development program and closing the infrastructure investment gap.
“We recognize the importance of this masterclass…” stated Minister Zikalala. “This crucial session marks the beginning of the SIDSSA, which in its third year continues to be a platform to bring together think-tanks like yourselves and critical role-players in the infrastructure investment space.”
The Western Cape government has put a jobs growth and development strategy in place, which is aimed at enabling a R1 trillion economy by 2035. The seven-point plan focuses on short- and medium-term growth based on the need to sustainably enable the economy, drive energy security, ensure access to water and boost resilient investment.
“We must move away from typical thinking around public works within the government space,” stated Director-General for the Western Cape Government Dr. Harry Malila. “We cannot just focus on repairing hospitals and schools; we need to take an economic approach and venture outside of our comfort zone.”
Showcasing South Africa's plan to develop its local content capacity and advance national development goals, local industrialization, skills development, job creation, youth employment and regional economic integration were highlighted as key areas to ensure the implementation of a resilient infrastructure strategy.
“We aim to implement the objectives of the National Skills Development Plan 2030 to increase the number of people that obtain critical or scarce skills needed, and to build the capacity of the construction sector to be economically sustainable and globally competitive,” stated CEO of the Construction Education and Training Authority, Malusi Shezi.
In response to the country's strategy to incentivize infrastructure investment, it was noted during the masterclass that South Africa needs to implement a deliberate effort to mitigate capacity constraints and inefficiency to ensure project completion. This was highlighted as a requisite to attain investor confidence and promote localization and private sector participation in the country's infrastructure sector.
“We have a structural issue in terms of the quantum of infrastructure investment in this country,” stated Development Economist and Senior Lecturer at Stellenbosch University Dr. Nthabiseng Moleko. “We have to shift production towards production sectors. The key priority for that is infrastructure. We have to align investment and enhance the localization of these investments.”
Negligence in infrastructure maintenance has resulted in a lack of confidence in the sector. As such, improved governance, administration and capacity building were highlighted as solutions to addressing infrastructure challenges in South Africa.
“Overall investment has been on a downward trend since 2010 and started picking up in 2022. Despite the overall decline, private sector capital investment continued to grow faster than public sector investment. Yet, much faster growth is needed to expand the economy and reduce unemployment and end poverty,” stated Municipal Infrastructure Support Agency CEO, Mapatane Kgomo.
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. The Masterclass on Sustainable Infrastructure Development is held in collaboration with the National School of Government.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
“By harnessing the potential of renewable energy, Africa’s young, dynamically growing economies can ensure energy supply is generated in line with international climate goals.” – The Renewable Energy Transition in Africa The climate crisis and increasing demand for energy across the continent are supporting the shift towards renewable energy production. Solar power generation, in particular, …
Tsepho portable power brings light to informal settlements
A youth-led enterprise from Vrygrond in the Western Cape, is switching on lights, plugs and lives through its portable power stations solution.
Fuelled by a desire to make an impactful change, three young entrepreneurs, Vincent Mosebe, who is the founder and CEO of Mosebe Enterprise (ME); Leandro Antonio, Marketing Director; and Donovan Pedzai, Chief Operations Officer, set out to revolutionise the energy sector.
They used recycled materials to create the power stations for underserved and rural communities in the Western Cape and beyond.
Their pilot flagship power station “Tsepho – The Power of Hope” is an innovative 10Ah [amp-hour] solar charge energy solution that targets informal settlement households who would otherwise utilise unsafe power methods, including candles and illegal connections, that often lead to settlement fires - and those at the mercy of constant and pro-longed power outages and cable theft.
The trio are exhibiting alongside other start-ups, Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), investors and policy makers at the Global Entrepreneurship Congress+Africa.
The congress is a gathering of entrepreneurs and leaders from 43 African countries, which is currently underway at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in the Western Cape.
Through the organisations funded to implement development entrepreneurial programmes for youth not-in-education-employment-or-training (NEET), the National Development Agency (NDA) extended the invitation to 23 entrepreneurs to afford them a linkage opportunity to showcase their businesses, network and participate as delegates at the conference.
The NDA is an agency of government that reports to the National Assembly. It was formed in 1999 as government’s response to the challenge of poverty and its causes in South Africa.
Mosebe said their power stations address safety and electrification problems experienced by residents in informal settlements.
“Currently, statistics report that an average of 10 shacks catch fire per day in South Africa. We have first-hand experience and have lost personal belongings and community lives to shack fires, having grown up in Vrygrond.
“Tsepho offers a sustainable, affordable, reliable, and eco-friendly power solution that has features, including multiple USB ports, a powerful lithium-ion battery with solar compatibility and 1 12v LED light bulb. Tsepho is not just a device; it is a catalyst for change – a beacon of hope that will bring about a brighter sustainable future,” Mosebe said.
The entrepreneurs have leveraged personal funds to scale production and conduct on-the-ground research.
Mosebe said their immediate plans include expanding production capacity, extending reach to new communities, and fostering more collaborations for future social impact and export.
He said the power station range also includes a bigger version “2 Tsepho” with similar capabilities including an additional feature of a bug-repellent UV light that exterminates insects and bugs (pest control).
“With this power station, we are targeting campers and the caravan community who need extended power. Our next goal is to extend the products further into African countries that struggle with Malaria cases. Additionally, there are two more ranges with extended power capabilities to power up a single power socket that can power up a fridge or microwave.
“The largest, ‘version 3’, packs up a 20.8Ah battery and a 300W inverter offering increased power capacity. This would be a useful tool for students – they can charge laptops and keep WIFI going during outages, promoting a consistent learning experience.
“The starter pack retails from R1 500 without the solar panel. We also offer warranty up to a year for any technical faults,” Mosebe said.– SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 03/14/2024 - 12:40
Johannesburg, March — FAW Trucks SA, a force in global commercial vehicle manufacturing, proudly announces the introduction launch of the new generation JK6 FD/FT variant. This strategic introduction underscores the company’s steadfast commitment to advancing technology and performance in the commercial transport sector. With a rich history dating back to its establishment in South Africa …
SA, Ghana have great potential to unlock economic opportunities
President Cyril Ramaphosa says there is great potential to unlock economic opportunities through investment-led trade initiatives aimed at increasing the trade of value-added products between South Africa and Ghana.
“We need to move beyond trade in commodities and on to the purchase of job creating agricultural goods, and advanced manufactured and value-added products,” President Ramaphosa said.
Addressing the SA-Ghana Business Forum held at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand on Tuesday, President Ramaphosa said South Africa and Ghana share a long and rich history defined by the struggle for freedom.
“This history provides a firm foundation to forge closer economic ties that can spur growth and development in both countries,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said South Africa is pleased to host the Business Forum to explore business opportunities that enhance bilateral economic relations.
Earlier in the day, President Ramaphosa and his Ghanaian counterpart, President Nana Akufo-Addo, reaffirmed the importance of nurturing of the existing historic relations and bonds of friendship between the two countries.
The two Heads of State emphasised that these relations are based on mutual partnership and solidarity, which date back to the struggle against apartheid and colonialism.
President Akufo-Addo is in South Africa on a working visit at the invitation of President Ramaphosa to co-chair the 2nd Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between the two countries.
Tuesday’s BNC, which was held at the Department of International Relations offices in Pretoria, was preceded by a ministerial meeting on Monday,11 March. Meanwhile, a senior officials meeting was held on Friday, 8 March.
At the Business Forum, President Ramaphosa said Africa has been at the lower-end of global value chains.
"We have abundant natural resources, but limited productive capability to process them for higher value capture.
“However, the need for a global transition to a low-carbon future offers the continent new opportunities to upgrade and diversify into technology-intensive global value chains. Our two countries are in a strategic position to benefit from the rapid growth of key clean energy manufacturing industries.
“Most of the minerals critical for the manufacturing of clean energy technologies, such as battery storage and electric vehicles, are held in Africa,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said there is a need to improve manufacturing capacity and scale up production and export through the building of domestic and regional linkages and value chains.
READ | SA, Ghana explore ways to expand trade and investment
“It is important to explore practical cooperation between key players in industry to foster effective and mutually beneficial collaboration between our countries to promote green industrialisation.
“This will help to build on the strong trade and investment links between our economies. South Africa is already the largest purchaser of Ghanaian exports in Africa, and the third largest importer of Ghana’s products globally,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa emphasised the need to move beyond trade in commodities and on to the purchase of job-creating agricultural goods, advanced manufactured and value-added products.
“The importance of Ghana to South Africa as an anchor partner country within West Africa is affirmed by the many South African trade missions to explore business opportunities in the form of investment-led trade,” he said.
The relationship between the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Ghana has grown exponentially over the years.
Cooperation between the two countries has been elevated from a Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation (PJCC) that is held at a Ministerial level to a Bi-National Commission, presided over by the two Heads of State and Government.
The Business Forum brought together companies and entrepreneurs from South Africa and Ghana with the aim of deepening trade and mutual investment and leveraging the opportunities created within the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Expanded trade and investment will stimulate growth and job creation in both countries and facilitate closer people-to-people interaction between the two nations. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 03/13/2024 - 10:41
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Trina Solar (www.TrinaSolar.com), the world's leading provider of smart PV and energy storage solutions has partnered with SOLA, a South African leader in renewable energy with a focus on utility-scale projects and WBHO Construction to embark on a transformative solar project. The Merak 1 project signifies a major milestone in sustainable energy solutions for South Africa.
Sola and WBHO formed a joint venture to ensure the successful execution of the Merak 1 project, contributing to South Africa's renewable energy goals.
Trina Solar will supply the project with 205,161 panels of its advanced Vertex modules. It is set to provide the power needed for the operations of African Rainbow Minerals, one of South Africa's foremost mining companies, underlining the commitment to harnessing clean and efficient energy sources for large-scale industrial applications. The project is set to be operational by the end of 2024.
"We're proud to be part of this project to supply 135MW 210mm p-type bifacial Vertex modules. This collaboration showcases Trina Solar's commitment to advancing clean energy solutions tailored to the country's industrial needs and deliver high-power, high-efficiency and reliable solar solutions. This project marks our inaugural foray into utility-scale projects of South Africa," commented Zaheer Khan, Regional Director of Southern Africa at Trina Solar.
"We are excited to play a pivotal role in the Merak 1 project, leveraging WBHO Construction's EPC expertise to contribute to South Africa's sustainable energy future. This collaboration underscores our commitment to delivering innovative solutions for utility-scale projects," commented Derek Wallace, Director at WBHO Construction.
The Merak 1 project not only represents a leap forward in the adoption of renewable energy but also showcases the potential of strategic partnerships to drive positive change and address the evolving energy needs of South Africa. Trina Solar continues to contribute to the country's transition towards sustainable and efficient energy solutions, further solidifying its role as a key player in the South African solar industry.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Trina Solar.
About Trina Solar:
Founded in 1997, Trina Solar Co Ltd (stock symbol: Trina Solar; stock code: 688599) is engaged mainly in PV products, PV systems and smart energy. PV products include R&D, production and sales of PV modules. PV systems consist of power stations and system products. Smart energy comprises mainly PV power generation and operations and maintenance, smart solutions for energy storage, smart microgrid, and development and sales of multi-energy systems. We are committed to leading the way in smart PV and energy storage solutions and facilitating the transformation of new power systems for a net-zero future.
On June 10, 2020, Trina Solar was listed on the Science and Technology Innovation Board (STAR Market) of the Shanghai Stock Exchange(SSE). It was the first PV and energy storage company to go public on the STAR Market providing PV products and systems, as well as smart energy. For more information, please visit www.TrinaSolar.com.