Ramaphosa

9 November 2023

Strides being made to claw back against effects of State Capture

Location: News

Strides being made to claw back against effects of State Capture

While the remnants of State Capture continue to impact government and state coffers, progress is being made to bring those responsible to book.

This according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who was addressing the ongoing National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council’s (NACAC) National Dialogue in Gauteng.

President Ramaphosa highlighted that among the billions of Rands that have been retrieved from corrupt elements, at least nine separate court cases, involving 47 individuals and 21 companies, have been brought to court.

“Freezing orders amounting to R14 billion have been authorised by the Asset Forfeiture Unit and a total of R5.4 billion has been recovered and returned to the state. Government departments, municipalities and professional bodies are taking disciplinary action against individuals identified by the [State Capture] Commission.

“The South African Revenue Service has collected R4.9 billion in unpaid taxes as a result of evidence brought before the State Capture Commission. While there is a long road ahead, the fight against corruption is gaining momentum,” the President said.

He highlighted that over the last five years, significant resources have been invested to “rebuild the law enforcement agencies and other bodies that were devastated by state capture”.

“We appointed new leadership with the track record, integrity and capability to tackle crime and corruption. We are now in the process of developing legislation that will insulate the appointment and removal processes for key positions shown to be vulnerable to state capture.

“In 2018, we established the NPA Investigating Directorate to focus on state capture and other serious crimes. We established the Special Tribunal to enable the Special Investigating Unit to fast track the recovery of public funds.

“In November 2020, Cabinet adopted the National Anti-Corruption Strategy, whose six strategic pillars anchor the deliberations of this National Dialogue,” he said.

President Ramaphosa acknowledged that corruption has a significant impact not only on state coffers but in the belief that citizens have in government.

“All South Africans suffer…when goods, services and resources meant for public benefit are misappropriated, mismanaged and stolen and when that happens, it is the poor who suffer most.

“Corruption carries a huge opportunity cost…it imposes a huge burden on the lives of our people. Economic growth is stifled and businesses suffer. Development stalls and institutions across the board – both in the public sector and in the private sector – also fail.

“Corruption has wounded our democracy in a number of ways and has also shaken people’s faith in our institutions. If corruption is not curbed, arrested or stopped, the greatest damage will not be in the funds stolen…or the jobs lost. It will be in damaging our democracy,” he said.

Reflecting further on South Africa’s democracy – which will turn 30 years old in 2024 – President Ramaphosa said next year, both progress and failings will be acknowledged.

“We will…reflect on how far we have come as a country in improving the lives of our people…the quality of their lives and also…in entrenching a culture of democracy and human rights.

“We will reflect on the progressive policies that have enabled millions of our people to be lifted out of absolute poverty and that have provided…basic necessities which they didn’t have…such as housing, electricity, water and other basic services.

“We will also, at the same time, acknowledge where we have not achieved enough, where the expectations and aspirations of our people have not been met. As we consider the great achievements of our democracy, we must be forthright about one of the great weaknesses where we have fallen short and that is with regard to corruption,” the President said.

The President emphasised that the fight against corruption and crime should be taken up by all of society.

“When it comes to criminality, we have 95 000 police in our country [and] we are adding [more]. Between last year and this year we are going to be adding up to 30 000 even next year. But those police will never be in every household, they will never be in every street, they will never be in every locale.

“In the end, the fight against criminality is also a societal one. Quite often…as communities, we know the people that get involved in criminality…and we don’t speak out. It is up to us as well to speak out, to make sure that we root out criminality working together with the police where we become the eyes and the ears of our people as a whole.

“Similarly when it comes to corruption, it is our duty all of us. It is a societal challenge and I hope this summit is going to come up with a lot of strategies and measures that we need to take to push back on corruption and end corruption in South Africa,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 09:46

119 views

8 November 2023

SA remains the preferred investment destination in Africa

Location: News

SA remains the preferred investment destination in Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that South Africa remains one of the preferred investment destinations and is an important gateway for markets and other business opportunities throughout the continent.

The President was delivering remarks at the Procter & Gamble Plant launch in Kempton Park, in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng.

“As a clear demonstration of the value of trade between African countries, Procter & Gamble currently exports from South Africa to Namibia, Swaziland, Mozambique and Botswana. We understand that the company is set to supply the African continent from South Africa through the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

“The African Continental Free Trade Area will unlock opportunities for the development of export markets, enhance industrial bases and regional value chains.

“We expect the continental free trade area to reduce the cost and improve the ease of doing business in Africa,” he said, adding that government wants to make the movement of products, processes and people seamless as companies increase their footprint on the continent.

Over the years, P&G has been a valuable partner to the South African government through the South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC), continually announcing new investments.

Procter & Gamble stands behind many brands that are household names in South Africa, such as Vicks, Old Spice, Gillette, Oral B and Pampers, amongst others, and has a strong manufacturing footprint in the country.

The company has been in Africa for over 50 years. It has manufacturing operations in South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt and Morocco, and has distributor operations in over 45 countries.

The President said that it has been greatly encouraging to see the company’s response to South Africa’s ambitious investment drive and the investment commitments made by the company at the five South Africa Investment Conferences that we have held since 2018.

“It is a pleasure being here today with all of you to launch this state-of-the-art production line of Pampers Premium Care. The timing of this launch is very opportune.

“South Africa has just hosted the 20th AGOA Forum. It was an opportunity to showcase the capabilities of the African continent to the United States, the world’s largest consumer market. I was pleased to see that leading companies that have an established presence on our continent, like Procter & Gamble, were represented,” he said.

The launch of Tuesday’s production line is the latest in a number of projects that have given effect to Procter & Gamble’s investment pledges.

Through these and other investments, Procter & Gamble is contributing to the reindustrialisation of South Africa’s economy.

“To drive growth that is sustainable and inclusive, we are working to expand and diversify our manufacturing base, and improve its competitiveness and dynamism,” he said.

The President noted that disruptions to global supply chains caused by COVID-19 lockdowns have highlighted the imperative for companies all over the world to diversify their sources of supply.

Investment

“Just as we have seen the benefits of nearshoring and localisation for South African manufacturers, we can appreciate its value to broader global supply stability.

“South Africa is an investment destination with significant untapped potential. We have the ability to attract higher levels of investment and we look forward to working with Procter & Gamble on its future pipeline of investments,” he said.

While investment decisions often take several years to reach fruition, the President said that the investment commitments made to date have already resulted in substantial investment into the productive economy and have created jobs.

He highlighted that Procter & Gamble has heeded government’s call and has sought to increase the participation of small South African businesses in its value chains.

“We are encouraged by the company’s commitment to sourcing local materials, reducing waste, promoting skills development and creating more roles for women in the company.

“We welcome the work the company has undertaken alongside government departments in expanding access to menstrual hygiene products and supporting Early Childhood Development centres.

“We see these partnerships as a testament to the continued commitment of Procter & Gamble to South Africa and the African continent,” the President said.

The President emphasised that government will continue to support Procter & Gamble to increase its footprint through local sourcing and to contribute to job creation, technological development and sustainability.

He congratulated the Procter & Gamble team, from the shop floor to the senior executives, on the launch of this production line.

The President further congratulated the team for the continuous stream of investments being made to increase the company’s footprint on the continent.

“Through the launch of this production line, Procter & Gamble is making a worthy contribution towards our vision of African producers supplying quality goods to African markets.

“This is the vision of a continent that is emerging as the next frontier of global production, meeting the needs of its own people and the peoples of the world,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 11/08/2023 - 15:55

141 views

7 November 2023

Two appear in court for Phala Phala farm robbery

Location: News

Two appear in court for Phala Phala farm robbery

Two people have appeared in the Bela-Bela Magistrates’ Court on charges related to the Phala Phala farm robbery.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the two - Imanuwela David (39) and Froliana Joseph (30) – are facing charges including conspiracy to commit housebreaking with intent to steal and theft, and money laundering.

It is alleged that some US$580 000 was stolen during the robbery at the farmed owned by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Regional Spokesperson, Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi, said the two were arrested on Sunday and Monday.

“The investigations revealed that between 1 January 2020, the accused persons conspired to commit housebreaking with intent to steal and theft at Phala Phala farm, and on 8 January 2020, David, with two others, entered Stokkiesdraai farm, believing that it was Phala Phala farm. They broke and entered but nothing was stolen.

“The following night, they located Phala Phala farm, where they broke, entered and stole US$580 000. The matter has been postponed to 10 November 2023 for… David to arrange for legal representation and for a formal bail application,” Malabi-Dzhangi said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 11/07/2023 - 13:29

307 views

7 November 2023

Empowering women: Turning the tide on GBV

Location: News

Empowering women: Turning the tide on GBV

Throughout our history, organised South African women have proven to be a force to be reckoned with by rising above painful circumstances and empowering themselves to create a brighter future for our nation.

The powerful impact of women on our nation was demonstrated on the 9th of August 1956 when 20 000 South African women marched against discriminatory apartheid laws.

Thanks in a large part to the resilience of women, the pass laws were later abolished and it was proven that when “you strike a woman, you strike a rock”. Today we applaud the strength, determination and bravery of the women who came before us. Many were harassed, detained and died in their quest for freedom. Their selfless actions helped to pave the path for our democracy and its manifold opportunities.

Since 1994, we have made great strides in gender equality, inclusion and representation of women in all spheres of government, business and civil society. Successive democratic administrations have also sought to empower women through our Constitution, legislation and progressive policies.

Though we have accelerated opportunities for women, there is still much work to be done and one of the major challenges that persists and affects women is Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).

Considering the harmful effects of GBVF and the alarming rate of these cases, it prompts the question of what is being done to overcome GBVF.

The need to empower GBVF survivors led to the establishment of several Thuthuzela care centres across the nation. These centres are part of our toolkit and actions to help prevent, respond to and support rape victims.

Through these facilities, individuals can report rape cases, receive medical assistance and counselling, open a police case and prepare for court. In this way, these centres give power and hope back to survivors by prioritising their needs and helping them heal from past trauma.

Another government initiative helping victims rise from pain into power is the victim empowerment programme, which supports victims through shelters, counselling and life skills that facilitate behavioural change.

The victim empowerment programme is aimed at eliminating all forms of violence against women and children through a collaborative approach.

Given the complex nature of GBVF, government has been working to strengthen the entire criminal justice system. In this regard, President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2022 signed into law three pieces of legislation to strengthen the criminal justice system, promote accountability across the state and support survivors.

The pieces of legislation includes tightening bail conditions, strengthening parole conditions, ensuring consequences for contravening a protection order, as well as increasing the minimum sentence for perpetrators of sexual offences.

Through stricter legislation, enhanced policing powers that enable peace officers to arrest perpetrators without a warrant at the scene of domestic violence, and the collaboration of the NPA and courts, women are empowered to take action as we strive to bring perpetrators to book.

Government’s efforts towards tackling the scourge of GBVF continues and currently all avenues are being explored to make attaining protection orders easier.

Alongside government efforts, we also applaud the efforts of the private sector in tackling GBVF. Through the private sector GBVF response fund, we have raised millions to support GBVF prevention programmes, forums, shelters and welfare organisations.

We urge all entities and individuals to continue to work towards eradicating GBVF and to act when they see or know something. One of the ways individuals can assist is through the Bright Sky SA initiative (free mobile application), which helps assess whether someone may be in an abusive situation through completion of a risk assessment questionnaire, as an endeavour to protect them.

We call upon everyone to report GBVF cases to their local police station, toll-free Crime Stop number: 086 00 10111, or via the GBV command centre: 0800 428 428.

Together we can tackle the scourge of GBVF and build the society we want to live in.

*Mnukwa is the Acting Director-General of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)

Matona
Tue, 11/07/2023 - 15:51

139 views

7 November 2023

President Ramaphosa appoints Judges to High Court Divisions

Location: News

President Ramaphosa appoints Judges to High Court Divisions

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Judges to the Supreme Court of Appeal, the Gauteng Division of the High Court and the KwaZulu-Natal Division of the High Court.

The President appointed the following Judges in terms of Section 174(6) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, and on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission:

(i) Madam Justice Fayeeza Kathree-Setiloane as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal, with effect from 01 December 2023, in an existing vacancy;

(ii) Madam Justice Anna Maleshane Kgoele as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal, with effect from 01 December 2023, in an existing vacancy;

(iii) Adv Soraya Khatija Hassim SC as a Judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy;

(iv) Adv Omphemetse Mooki SC as a Judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy;

(v) Adv Jacobus Johannes Strijdom SC as a Judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy;

(vi) Adv Brad Christopher Wanless SC as a Judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy; and

(vii) Prof Mbuzeni Johnson Mathenjwa as a Judge of the KwaZulu-Natal Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 November 2023 in an existing vacancy.

Furthermore, President Ramaphosa has appointed Justice Mogomotsi Edwin Molahlehi as Deputy Judge President of the Labour and Labour Appeal Courts with effect from 1 November 2023 in an existing vacancy.

The appointment of Justice Molahlehi was done in terms of Section 153 (1)(b) of the Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act 66 of 1995), acting on the advice of NEDLAC and the Judicial Service Commission and after consultation with the Minister of Justice and the Judge President of the Labour Court.

In terms of Section 169(1) of the Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act 66 of 1995), acting on the advice of NEDLAC and the Judicial Service Commission and after consultation with the Minister of Justice and the Judge President of the Labour Appeal Court, President Ramaphosa has appointed:

(i) Madam Justice Madeline Portia Nompi Nkutha-Nkontwana as a Judge of the Labour Appeal Court with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy;

(ii) Madam Justice Katherine Mary Savage as a Judge of the Labour Appeal Court with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy; and

(iii) Mr Justice André Johann Van Niekerk with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy.

Additionally, President Ramaphosa has, in terms of Section 153(4) of the Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act 66 of 1995), acting on the advice of NEDLAC and the Judicial Service Commission and after consultation with the Minister of Justice and the Judge President of the Labour Court, appointed the following judges:

(i) Adv Kelsey Allen-Yaman as a Judge of the Labour Court with effect from 1 December 2023, in an existing vacancy;

(ii) Mr Reynaud Neil Daniels as a Judge of the Labour Court with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy; and

(iii) Mr Molatelo Robert Makhura as a Judge of the Labour Court with effect from 1 January 2024, in an existing vacancy.

“These appointments will ensure continuity in the administration of justice at all levels and centres of the judiciary.

“President Ramaphosa wishes the newly appointed justices well as they take up their new roles in upholding the rule of law in the country,” the Presidency said in a statement. - SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Tue, 11/07/2023 - 13:32

160 views

6 November 2023

SA remains concerned about ongoing Russia-Ukraine, Israel-Palestine wars – Pandor

Location: News

SA remains concerned about ongoing Russia-Ukraine, Israel-Palestine wars - Pandor

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, has told her Ukrainian counterpart, Minister Dmytro Kubela, that South Africa remains deeply concerned about the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the continuing loss of lives and the very worrying humanitarian situation.

"We are in discussion with our own leader, President Cyril Ramaphosa, to look at how we can have a greater impetus to the Africa Peace Initiative to address our concerns with respect to this war,” she said on Monday.

Pandor was hosting Kubela in Pretoria for political consultations, where the two leaders also briefed media.

Africa, Pandor said, has been witness to numerous conflicts and overcame difficult wars over the years.

“All conflict has devastating effects on the countries involved. The effects are felt both politically, as well as economically and in terms of the development opportunities for often innocent citizens.

“As a continent, we continue to strive to build peace; strive to work toward developing a culture of peaceful resolution of conflict, and the promotion of the importance of diplomacy and peace as the route to resolving any dispute.”

This is the reason the Minister said South Africa always encourages a process of peaceful resolution of conflicts in Africa and globally.

“We believe the only path to peace is through diplomacy, dialogue and commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter, including the principle that all Member States shall settle their disputes by peaceful means, and many people forget this particular provision of the UN Charter.”

Regarding the unfolding tragedy in the Middle East, Pandor urged the international community to be louder in voicing a call for the immediate cessation of hostilities.

During his address to the General Assembly in September this year, President Ramaphosa insisted that the UN Charter principle of respect for the territorial integrity of every country be upheld. He told Member States that South Africa values the importance of engaging all partners in conflict to achieve peaceful, just and enduring resolutions.

“Minister, we’re meeting at a time when the world is experiencing a grave escalation of the conflict between Israel and Palestine. The carnage and senseless destruction of property, as well as the untold pain and suffering on all sides, should be condemned unreservedly,” Pandor said on Monday.

The unfolding events, she said, reminded South Africa of its own suffering at the hands of the apartheid machinery.

“Therefore, we call for an immediate end of hostilities, unconditional provision of medical supplies and humanitarian aid. It has thus become more urgent that the relevant UN resolutions and decisions are fully executed to ensure peaceful co-existence between Israel and Palestine for sustained peace. [It] is our belief, as President Mandela, said that the struggle of South Africa is not complete if the people of Palestine are not free.”

Kubela said he was happy that he is the first Ukrainian Foreign Minister to visit South Africa since 1998.

“On the other hand, I am unhappy that the pause in high-level bilateral contacts between foreign ministers has taken so long. We should commit today never to allow this to happen again, and to have regular political dialogue between our countries.”

Kubela said the leaders will not only discuss bilateral relations between Ukraine and South Africa but also the larger regional perspective of African politics and development.

“No one in today's world exists in isolation. Neither peace nor war exists in isolation in today's world.

“So while Ukraine has been suffering from the large-scale invasion by Russia since February 2022, we do observe and follow with utmost concern the crisis in the Middle East, and we wish for just and lasting peace to be restored in the Middle East based on the principle of a two-State solution.”

Kubela said he believes that the deeper the contact between the countries, the higher the level of trust between both nations.

“There are good reasons for that to happen, which will allow us to address the most sensitive issues in the bilateral and Global Agenda successfully and together.”

These issues, according to Kubela, include the implementation of Ukraine's peace formula to end the war, international organisations, the development of trade and the involvement of Ukrainian expertise in the digitalisation of government services, and the production of agricultural food products across Africa.

“All of this is on the table and I'm looking forward to a fruitful discussion, and as we diplomats like to say, 'result-oriented discussion',” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 11/06/2023 - 12:52

79 views

6 November 2023

Africa Investment Forum welcomes Rugby Africa President to discuss the business of sport

Location: News, Sport

The newly elected President of Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com), the continental governing body for rugby in Africa, Mr Herbert Mensah, will discuss the business of sport in a one-to-one fireside chat at the 2023 Africa Investment Forum (AIF) (www.AfricaInvestmentForum.com) on Thursday, November 9 in Marrakech, Morocco.

Championed by the African Development Bank and seven other founding partners (Africa50, Africa Finance Corporation, Afreximbank, Development Bank of Southern Africa, European Investment Bank, Islamic Development Bank and Trade and Development Bank), the Africa Investment Forum is Africa's investment marketplace to accelerate transactions to close Africa's investment gaps.

Founded in 2018, the Africa Investment Forum has mobilized nearly $143 billion in investment interest. The event brings together heads of state, business leaders, decision makers and investors to advance critical investment transactions to closure. Previous attendees include H.E Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda, H.E Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, and H.E Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana.

The sports industry in Africa is experiencing rapid growth, with the potential to generate jobs, improve public health, foster social inclusion and drive economic growth. According to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), the industry was valued at $7 billion in 2018 with an expected growth of $12 billion in 2027. Despite the potential, investment across Africa remains limited, with only 1% of startup financing directed towards the sport sector.

Rugby Africa President, Herbert Mensah, continues to emphasize the business potential of rugby across Africa. Since his election, President Mensah has called for a change of mindset from African governments and international organizations to increase investment in rugby across Africa. In June, President Mensah delivered a keynote speech on treating rugby as a lucrative business venture at the Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa 2023 event in Marrakech, Morocco.

Watch the video on the Bloomberg Website: https://apo-opa.info/466rOcr

The annual three-day Africa Investment Forum Market Days event will commence on Wednesday November 8 to Friday November 10 under the theme “Unlocking Africa's Value Chain” in Marrakech, Morocco.

Read more information about the Africa Investment Forum: https://www.AfricaInvestmentForum.com/en

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.

Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com

About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women's rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 39 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.

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4 November 2023

Patel supports call for reauthorisation of AGOA

Location: News

Patel supports call for reauthorisation of AGOA

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel, has thrown his weight behind the reauthorisation of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) as swiftly as possible and with refinements that do not require lengthy discussions.

Patel was delivering closing remarks at the three-day 20th African Growth and Opportunity Act Forum held at Nasrec in Johannesburg.

“One idea that's come up from the discussions is whether we should consider, if needed, a two-stage programme. But the first stage firmly focused on reauthorisation as rapidly as possible, maybe with a modest package of refinements that does not require lengthy discussions.

“The second stage with further and perhaps deeper improvements that require more time and further study, and that can be done fairly shortly thereafter. We are particularly keen to get the reauthorisation in the earliest part of 2024, so this will be very helpful.

“These are ideas that we want our friends in the United States to think through and consider. We are also reflecting a little bit on these weighing up the pros and cons,” the Minister said.

The Africa Growth and Opportunity Act is a unilateral trade preference scheme that provides qualifying sub-Saharan African countries with duty-free, quota-free access into the United States market. AGOA remains the cornerstone of the USA’s commercial relations with sub-Saharan Africa.

The Minister said that discussions at the forum also looked at a graduation system once countries reach a particular level of advancement, adding that they can be even considered a "constructive conversation about the matrix of that level of advancement".

Patel also emphasised that there are policy areas that need to be relooked, adding that polishing existing policies would make room for more African products to make it to the international market.

“Those colleagues who’ve been enjoying our fruits, SA citrus fruit from the region, which can be available in larger quantities, we can resolve those things. Matters we constructively engage in, for example relating to steel and aluminium, these are practical solutions we believe can unlock the value of trade. In different parts of the continent, in West Africa, there are constraints in accessing the American market. In East Africa, there are different products we need to refine.”

Patel highlighted that the discussions also looked at the idea of small businesses to small business partnership between the African continent and the United States.

“We looked at the product scope. Is there appetite to increase the number of products covered by AGOA? By way of illustration, we shared with Congressional representatives, an example of 10 products where Africa has capacity, and where Africa has fantastic products, some of which you've tasted in the last few days,” he told delegates.

“We recognise we need to balance the level of our ambition on extending the product list against the concerns about the time that may be required to reach consensus in Congress on these factors. While we would obviously prefer as much as possible, we want to avoid such a broad review that we delay reauthorisation,” he said.

Mineral beneficiation

Mineral beneficiation on the African continent was also under the spotlight.

“We said we don't want to be the exporter of rocks. We want to be the exporter of consumer and capital goods… and the producers of electric vehicles. And it raises the question of a moment of a grand bargain between Africa and its friends elsewhere in the world, where there's a partnership around critical minerals, but also with processing of critical minerals on the African continent,” he said.

The Minister believes that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a game changer.

He explained that AGOA on its own gave the continent significant access on a range of products to the world's single biggest national consumer market.

“What the AFCFTA will add to that is that the combined weight of access to African markets and access to the US market will give us the scale to draw investment, and scale is what investors look at. They want to be able to see that the size of the market justifies the investment.

“We also said that AFCFTA is helping to foster value chains. It is a critical driver to help industrialise and so more and more countries will now begin to have these value chains, so those value chains will then enable better utilisation of AGOA,” he said.

Impact

The United States of America Trade Representative, Katherine Tai, also addressed the closing ceremony and emphasised that AGOA remains the cornerstone of the U.S. economic partnership with Africa.

“Let us not forget the real impact AGOA has had on real lives, real people: the woman entrepreneur seeking to expand her macadamia nut processing business; the small business owner making apparel and handicrafts, and the countless students and youth, waiting to make their mark on this ever-changing continent,” she said.

President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the opening of the forum on Friday. In his address, the President said an extension of AGOA for a longer period of time could act as an instrument to entice investors to pour more resources into the African continent.

“We would like you to look at the extension or renewal of AGOA for a sufficiently lengthy period for it to act as an incentive for investors to build new factories on the African continent,” said the President.

The purpose of the forum is to discuss ways to expand trade and investment relations between the United States and sub-Saharan Africa, and the implementation of AGOA, including encouraging joint ventures between small and large businesses. - SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Sat, 11/04/2023 - 19:43

247 views

3 November 2023

Africa has products for the global market

Location: News

Africa has products for the global market

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says what African producers seek is increased access to markets.

She was speaking on the sidelines of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum held in Johannesburg on Friday.

The Minister explained that producers on the African continent seek even greater access to markets in order to thrive.

“We’ve got a lot of production that is coming from Africa and what we are seeking is more access to markets. There’s been a tendency – and business and organised labour, and also civil society, raised this concern – that the largest trade in AGOA is taking place in minerals and raw products instead of getting the beneficiation.

“We need to get the beneficiation. We need investors to invest here. But there are products from SMMEs, who are now given certification in terms of rules of origin, that they are done on the African continent and therefore they must have access to market there.

“Our agricultural products, for example, were part of the issues that were raised… We’ve got a lot of products not only for the US market but for the global market from the African continent,” Ntshavheni said.

The Minister reiterated President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call for an extended period of extension for the AGOA initiative.

“[During the forum] there were readouts from the various sectors… the private sector, organised labour, civil society, women representatives and the trade ministry and all of them collectively have reiterated the need to make the AGOA extension not a short extension but a longer extension, with a proposal of a 20-year extension so that it can be what the President [Cyril Ramaphosa] deemed the long haul.

“That gives certainty to investors and you can then look in the longer term and a bigger investment. That’s the gist of us being here and we are happy that despite the challenges, the 20th edition of the AGOA Forum is taking place in South Africa,” she said.

The Minister emphasised that Africa is on a growth path that will lead to a strong future.

“We are determined as the African continent that we are going to work together to make sure that Africa is the hub of development. Africa, by 2030, will be the continent with the largest population, therefore it will be the largest market for any global goods and services and therefore, we are going to rely on ourselves,” Ntshavheni said.

The Minister responded to questions related to perceptions of “shaky” relations between South Africa and the US.

“South Africa-US relationships are not shaky. We have South Africans who speak very loudly and express their views, and the Americans also do the same. But the relationship between South Africa and the US has always been solid because they are one of our largest trading partners and we are one of their largest trading partners on the African continent,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 15:32

309 views

3 November 2023

Cosatu backs SA’s continued AGOA membership

Location: News

Cosatu backs SA’s continued AGOA membership

Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) President Zingiswa Losi says the federation has thrown its weight behind the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and for its renewal as the country continues to fight joblessness.

“As a trade federation movement, our responsibility is towards ensuring we protect jobs and that is why we have always had support for our government.

“But beyond that, we continue to advocate and request our sister federation in the US to be our voice on that side that the United States of America and the Biden administration will be able to renew AGOA for the next 10 years before they go for their elections next year,” she said on Friday.

Losi was speaking during a media briefing on the sidelines of the AGOA Forum, which is currently underway at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg.

Launched in 2000, AGOA grants exports from qualifying African countries duty-free access to the United States market.

She reflected on the impact of the piece of legislation, which has created 450 000 jobs linked to the United States-Africa trade in different sectors. Losi said the mining, manufacturing, auto manufacturing, clothing, agriculture and jewellery industries have benefited from the legislation through exports.

The Cosatu President said the federation supports South Africa’s continued AGOA membership.

“It is also important that that unaligned role is strengthened when we deal with the geopolitics and it’s critical for government and business to simultaneously expand the trade and investment with other large trading partners such as the European Union, China and Japan and as you know we’re also part of the BRICS Trade Union Forum.”

Diversification, Losi believes, will ensure South Africa is able to trade with all countries to address the 42% unemployment rate, of which 60% of those are youngsters.

“Importantly, for us to do that we need to address issues of energy in the country, crime and corruption and also the issues of rail and infrastructure.”

Meanwhile, during President Cyril Ramaphosa’s main address, he said he remains concerned about the negative effects that trade restrictions on products like steel, aluminium or citrus fruit have on AGOA utilisation rates.

President Ramaphosa said he hopes the forum will help lay the basis for these to be addressed in future and that more targeted efforts to promote greater levels of investment can help unlock AGOA’s opportunities. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 15:36

143 views

3 November 2023

President Ramaphosa calls for substantial lengthening of AGOA

Location: News

President Ramaphosa calls for substantial lengthening of AGOA

An extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) for a longer period of time can act as an instrument to entice investors to pour more resources into the African continent.

“We would like you to look at the extension or renewal of AGOA for a sufficiently lengthy period for it to act as an incentive for investors to build new factories on the African continent.

“As we were going around talking to a number of product producers, the recurring message and word I heard is ‘we can do more…if this opportunity is extended and we can build more capacity if we have certainty that yes, the period of extension will be longer’.

“Shorter periods of extension impede investment ambitions and we therefore want to see a much lengthier period of extension. The United States and Africa… are going to be here for a long time. We are here for the long haul so let us make AGOA a long haul opportunity for all of us,” said President Cyril Ramaphosa at the opening of the AGOA Forum, currently underway at Nasrec in Johannesburg.

The President reflected on the successes that have been made under AGOA for African countries.

“When excluding exports of crude oil under AGOA, the data show that the programme has substantially improved the export competitiveness of certain African products, especially textiles and apparel.

“Apparel exports from Lesotho, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Madagascar and Kenya have not only led to the creation of tens of thousands of jobs but these countries have become reliable producers for American consumers.

“Other parts of manufacturing have also seen success under AGOA. South Africa’s auto exports to the United States under AGOA have contributed to job creation in South Africa and in the auto supply chain within neighbouring countries.

“We value the relationship with the United States, the world’s largest national market, and a country with which we have relationships that go well beyond trade. The African Growth and Opportunity Act – or AGOA – has served as the cornerstone of the US-Africa commercial relationship for more than two decades,” President Ramaphosa said.

Africa on the rise

President Ramaphosa told the forum that trading has been in the DNA of Africans for thousands of years – predating colonial oppression.

“From earlier times, our forebears were already trading not only within Africa but with the rest of the world. They traded right across the continent… but they also traded with the world. Trading is part of our DNA; it is in our blood and it is this trading that we want to modernise and we look for partners to support us in this development as we modernise our trading practices and relations,” he said.

As the continent continues to modernise its trading, it is moving away from being a supplier of raw materials to a producer of ready-made consumer products.

“Africa is an important source of critical raw materials but we do not want to be defined by simply being the producers of commodities. The great industrial opportunity lies instead in the transformation of the rocks that we mine and the metal that we produce into the sophisticated industrial and consumer goods that societies across the world need.

“Gone should be the days when Africa is just seen as a source of rock, soil and dust being exported out of our continent. We now want to produce the products that are finished or near finished, which are utilised in other parts of the world. We want to earn full value for our products,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said he remains concerned about the negative effects that trade restrictions on products like steel, aluminium or citrus fruit have on AGOA utilisation rates.

“We hope that the discussions at this forum will help lay the basis for these to be addressed in future.”

The President said more targeted efforts to promote greater levels of investment can help to unlock AGOA’s opportunities.

NeoB
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 13:07

125 views

3 November 2023

Government on course to manage expenditure

Location: News

Government on course to manage expenditure

The sixth administration is on course to prudently manage government expenditure while retaining the focus on infrastructure, health, education and policing as critical areas of growth and development.

This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who was responding to Questions for Oral Reply in the National Assembly on Thursday.

Leader of the opposition party (Democratic Alliance), John Steenhuisen asked the President the reasons for the drastic budget cuts to government departments, which will have an impact on government’s delivery of frontline services at a time when citizens are being battered by the cost-of-living crisis.

The President highlighted that the Minister of Finance tabled the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) on Wednesday, which outlined the country’s fiscal position and provided information on government’s spending priorities over the next three years.

“Among other things, the Minister of Finance indicated in the MTBPS that we are resolved to stabilise public finances while maintaining support for the most vulnerable and protecting frontline services.

“At the same time, we are fast tracking growth-enhancing reforms, which includes a new financing mechanism for large infrastructure projects. Work is underway to reconfigure the structure and size of the state, while strengthening its capacity to deliver quality public services,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa told Members of Parliament that the cost containment guidelines issued by the National Treasury give advice and guidance to government departments to ensure a sound and prudent management of public finances in the context of significant constraints.

“The increase in fiscal constraints is mainly due to reduced revenues. The cost containment guidelines target non-critical spending items such as travel, catering, accommodation and capital items that have not yet commenced,” he said.

Turning to the discussions that the President and Deputy President Paul Mashatile have had with Ministers on an ongoing basis, President Ramaphosa said the meetings are focused on how programmes and activities undertaken by departments advance economic growth, social development and service delivery.

“Ministers and their departments engage with National Treasury on how best to implement any budget restructuring and delay projects where necessary without compromising the needs of communities,” he said. - SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 09:10

275 views

2 November 2023

Military Veterans commence payment pension benefit to eligible military veterans

Location: News

Department of Defence, Republic of South Africa
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The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Thandi Modise promulgated the Military Veterans Regulations on the 06th of October 2023 through the Government Gazette. Following the publication of the Regulations, the Government Pension Administration Agency (GPAA) started the admission and processing of prospective pension beneficiaries. The first batch of approved applicants received their first monthly pension benefit yesterday, the 01 November 2023, and will be getting their payments at the end of each month.

The Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Mr Thabang Makwetla, is pleased to announce the initial commencement of the payment of military veteran's pension benefit to eligible military veterans. The Presidential Task Team (PTT) has been seized with this process since its establishment by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The PTT in consultation with Military Veteran's Associations; the Department of Military Veterans; and the Government Pension Administration Agency (GPAA) have been hard at work to ensure that the disbursement of the Military Veterans Pension benefit, is paid out to all deserving military veterans.

“Today marks the beginning of yet another important milestone in our ongoing efforts to address the plight of military veterans in accordance with the provision of the Military Veterans Act No 18 of 2011” said Deputy Minister Makwetla.

According to GPAA Director of Special Pensions, Mr Kabelo Jonathan, military veterans should note that payments will be made from the date of approval of the applications. All applicants who have been contacted by GPAA, are required to submit the bank forms (Z894), bank statements and other relevant documents for prompt processing and payment of the military veteran's pension. To date, 18 119 applications have been received for the pension benefit of military veterans.

Military Veterans are urged to apply for this pension benefit and submit their applications to the Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Defence, Republic of South Africa.

2 November 2023

Rugby World Cup win demonstrates power of transformation

Location: News

Rugby World Cup win demonstrates power of transformation

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the 2023 Rugby World Cup (RWC) win has demonstrated the power of transformation.

“The Springboks are a potent symbol of just how far we have come as a people. That is why you have been so warmly embraced by South Africans of all races as their own,” President Ramaphosa said.

This was the fourth victory by the Springboks for the championship. All four championships have taken place during South Africa’s democratic years.

The President reflected on when former Boks captain Francois Pienaar and President Nelson Mandela lifted the Webb Ellis Cup at Ellis Park Stadium on 24 June 1995.

“Our democracy was just over one year old. South Africa had just been readmitted to World Rugby three years earlier. There was only one black player on the team, the legendary Chester Williams. It was a monumental, historic and deeply symbolic occasion. This win is also monumental,” he said.

The Springboks won the 2023 RWC against New Zealand at the finals in Paris, France, on Saturday, 28 October 2023.

Welcoming the Rugby World Cup champions at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Thursday, the President was joined by scores of Springbok supporters across different age groups and races, who filled the streets and cheered for the team.

They were in high spirits, proudly wearing their Springbok jerseys as they celebrated and chanted the names of their favourite players.

A large media contingent was also present to capture the Webb Ellis Cup parade, which kicked off in Pretoria. The world champions are embarking on a four-day Trophy Tour to major regional population centres from Thursday, with the next stop being in Johannesburg and Soweto, concluding at FNB Stadium.

“Never in the history of the Rugby World Cup has any team lifted the trophy on four occasions. Until now. In doing so, you have lifted the spirits of an entire nation and filled us with pride.

“You have united the South African people. The words 'Amabokobo', 'Go Bokke' are being shouted from the rooftops by black and white, young and old, urban and rural dwellers, in all our national languages. Over the past eight weeks, this country has been a sea of green and gold.

“People who haven’t even followed rugby before or been interested in the game are now talking with confidence about scrums, rucks, drop kicks and tries,” the President said.

He said the performance of the Springboks in this year’s Rugby World Cup has captured people’s imagination and energised them in a way not seen in a long time.

“It has reminded us that even amidst our many challenges, there is always room for optimism and hope. I have said before that we do not make light of the challenges our country faces. We certainly do not imagine that a sporting victory can or will wish them away.

“Your journey to victory in France on Saturday night was as much about our journey towards nationhood as it was about sporting excellence. It was as much about the power of transformation,” said the President.

He said Amabokoboko are testament to the power of a dream.

“Every young boy and girl in this country today – whether they are black, white, Indian or coloured – now knows they don’t have to be content with dreaming of becoming like you. They know they can be you,” the President said.

The Springbok rugby team tour will continue in Cape Town (Friday, 3 November) and Durban (Saturday, 4 November) before concluding in the Eastern Cape (East London) on Sunday, 5 November.

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi expressed gratitude to South Africans for supporting the team during the tournament.

“We, as a team, chose to dedicate this World Cup to you because you are the reason we are where we are today. Your resilient spirit, how hard you work and the things that you go through to be where you are in life.

“Your support kept us going. We are very diverse and we wanted to show that diversity is our strength in South Africa. We need to use our diversity. It is a powerful force that many countries do not have and that we can use.

“When we work together regardless of our backgrounds, we put South Africa first and work for South Africa. That is what we did. We did it by playing rugby,” Kolisi said.

South African Rugby Union (SARU) President Mark Alexander said the team’s victory is a testament of the unwavering support and boundless passion of the millions of South Africans who supported the team.

“Your Tik Toks, YouTube and Facebook posts celebrating the victories played a role in motivating our team as they fought brilliantly on the field. Our team has achieved a historic fourth Rugby World Cup, an epic accomplishment that could not have been possible without the dedication and commitment of our players, led by the coaching team,” Alexander said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 11/02/2023 - 11:56

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1 November 2023

Protesters call for closure of Israeli embassy

Location: News

Cape Town march in support of Palestine

1 November 2023

President Cyril Ramaphosa appoints Advocate Nompilo Kholeka Gcaleka as Public Protector

Location: News

The Presidency: Republic of South Africa
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President Ramaphosa appoints Advocate Gcaleka as Public Protector

President Cyril Ramaphosa has in terms of section 193(4) of Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and on the recommendation of the National Assembly, appointed Advocate Nompilo Kholeka Gcaleka as Public Protector of the Republic of South Africa for a non-renewable term of seven years with effect from 1 November 2023.

The President wishes Advocate Gcaleka well in her position and trust that she will serve the people of South Africa with honor and dedication.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.

1 November 2023

Partnerships are key to decarbonizing the South African economy.

Location: MyPR

The “energy trilemma” of delivering lower carbon energy that is affordable and secure is an issue facing all businesses and policymakers in the energy space. We believe that the world’s leading energy companies meaningfully want to achieve all three priorities. In January 2023, the New York Times reported that 2022 was the fifth-hottest year on …

1 November 2023

President Ramaphosa appoints Advocate Gcaleka as Public Protector

Location: News

President Ramaphosa appoints Advocate Gcaleka as Public Protector

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Advocate Nompilo Kholeka Gcaleka as Public Protector of the Republic of South Africa for a non-renewable term of seven years with effect from 1 November 2023.

The President appointed Gcaleka in terms of section 193(4) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and on the recommendation of the National Assembly.

“The President wishes Advocate Gcaleka well in her position and trust that she will serve the people of South Africa with honor and dedication,” the Presidency said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 11/01/2023 - 10:20

160 views

1 November 2023

President Ramaphosa to welcome rugby world champs

Location: News

President Ramaphosa to welcome rugby world champs

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday morning welcome the Rugby World Cup Champions, the Springboks, to the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

The Springboks won the 2023 Rugby World Cup against New Zealand in Paris, France on Saturday.

The welcome ceremony at the Union Buildings for the national team signifies the start of the Rugby World Champions’ National Trophy Tour.

The team touched down at the OR Tambo International Airport on Tuesday to a rousing welcome from the public.

The Webb Ellis Cup parade will kick off on Thursday in Pretoria, Johannesburg and Soweto, concluding at FNB Stadium; and proceed to Cape Town on 03 November 2023; Durban on 04 November 2023 before the tour ends in the Eastern Cape (East London) on 05 November 2023.

Members of the public in Pretoria are welcome to witness this event from Government Avenue, Arcadia.

President to update Parliament

Meanwhile, President Ramaphosa will on Thursday afternoon engage with Members of Parliament (MPs) on diverse national issues when he responds to Questions for Oral Reply in the National Assembly.

Among issues MPs have raised with the President are:

• the mandate of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) and its accountability to Parliament;
• commissions of inquiry established by the President;
• combating violence against women and children;
• insights gained from the Census 2022 for macro-economic policy;
• fiscal discipline within Government.

The President will also discuss the state of readiness of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and its capacity to fulfill its constitutional mandate.

Parliamentary Questions for Oral and Written Reply are one of the mechanisms through which Parliament holds the Executive to account.

The questions session will start at 14:00. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 11/01/2023 - 09:40

51 views

31 October 2023

Permits to change the lives of farmers

Location: News

Permits to change the lives of farmers

By Gabi Khumalo

A group of farmers have dispelled the myth that government initiatives seldom have an impact on the lives of ordinary, real people.

Recently, 664 hemp and cannabis farmers who are on the KwaZulu-Natal Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) database, received permits which grants them authorisation to cultivate, store and transport content with a Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) of not more than 0.2%.

THC is the major psychoactive component and one of the 113 cannabinoids recognised in cannabis.

What does the handing over of the permits mean you ask? It means that the permits, handed over at a provincial Cannabis Expo and Conference, held at Okhahlamba Sports Complex in Bergville, will enable the farmers to have access to cutting edge technology through the Analytical Lab based at Cedara in uMgungundlovu District Municipality, near Pietermaritzburg.

To grow the local sector, the MECs of the provincial Departments of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) and Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) invited captains of industry, including experts, academics, Amakhosi and local growers to a two-day expo and conference to share ideas that will grow the sector to its full potential.

Held under the theme: “One love, one heart,” the event provided a platform for local cannabis and hemp farmers, and others with an interest in the sector to engage with business and academia.

Among the issues under discussion were that of regulations, registration, production, agro processing and exports.

Local business who will be providing services to permit recipients were also granted R300 000 each. Services include processing, erecting tunnels and providing lab equipment, packaging, testing, and finding a market for farmers.

Masterplan

The first citizen of the province, Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube said the expo and conference will be etched in the minds of the people, as the starting point of a “new era for the cannabis sector in the province.”

Dube-Ncube noted that many milestones had been achieved through the KZN Cannabis Masterplan.

“Through DARD we have set aside an amount of R47 million for cannabis research. We have allocated R10 million to assist farmers in cannabis production and hemp permit application.

“We have facilitated an investment commitment of R120 million and we have participated in the Cannabis and Hemp Phakisa Action Lab in order to secure much-needed policy coherence and to ensure closer collaboration amongst government entities," she explained.

This as pilot projects targeting commercial growers are ongoing, and the province has supported several investment leads, which were in the process of rolling out district-based capacity building programmes under the umbrella of the proposed KZN Cannabis Association.

Reaping the rewards

EDTEA MEC Siboniso Duma said, the expo had been a success and that the work by both EDTEA and DARD was just beginning.

“We want our farmers to be the champions of the cannabis sector and we want them to be able to speak for themselves. We are giving them an assignment to come closer to us because what we have started together, will change people’s lives,” Duma said.

Meanwhile, DARD MEC Super Zuma said the province has worked steadfastly and the time to unlock the province’s prosperity through the hemp and cannabis sector, had now arrived.

“We have ensured a smooth process for our hemp permit holders and we covered all their costs. We are winning the fight to alleviate poverty and unemployment and we are extremely proud of the ongoing collaborative work that continues behind the scenes, and I must say all our collaborative efforts have yielded fruit,” Zuma said.

Permit recipient from the Umzinyathi District Municipality, Sphelele Shezi, said this was the beginning of great things for her small business of hair products, noting that the success of the products relies on hemp seed oil.

“I applied for my permit in July because I want to start extracting oil to use in our hairspray. We also manufacture shea butter which will soon be hemp infused.

“This permit will allow my business to grow and I have a vision of owning a manufacturing plant which will open up job opportunities,” Shezi said.

The owner of Old Grey Distillery--which manufactures cannabis infused beverages in Johannesburg-- Derek Collard, said his business has received great exposure at the expo.

“The expo has been superb. We started our business when cannabis became legal and we started experimenting with different cannabis infused gin flavours. We have met incredible contacts that we will be supplying. There are business opportunities as well as local growers that we could potentially partner with,” Collard said.

Nonhlanhla Qhoboshiyane, a hemp and cannabis farmer from Durban, who was introduced to the plants after falling ill, said she was grateful for the opportunity to be part of the informative expo.

“My interest started in 2016 when my husband and I were diagnosed with cancer. We used hemp oil and we would make cannabis leaf tea to help with the pain.

“These plants are from the Lord, created to bring about economic recovery in South Africa, there should be no stigma attached to them. The rural economy will grow because of hemp and cannabis,” she said.

Investment

In the 2023 State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Cyril Ramaphosa reiterated government’s commitment made in 2022 to unlock investment in the hemp and cannabis sector.

During the Phakisa Action Lab gathering held in June 2023, the President said the cannabis and hemp sector is one of 14 priority sectors that have been defined in government’s Country Investment Strategy as holding significant potential to secure investment, job creation and support for sustainable rural livelihoods, in recognition of people’s rights.

“I am confident that the collaborative commitment to work together which characterises our society, will find expression in the Hemp and Cannabis Phakisa, leading to immediate short term regulatory reform, the adoption of a set of foundational policy principles to achieve longer term legislative reform and a detailed plan to achieve inclusive growth and investment,” the President said at the time.

Participants at the Action Lab collectively agreed on the regulatory reforms required to better enable the development of the hemp and cannabis sector.

The reforms will unlock the potential of cannabis in African traditional medicine; pharmaceutical and complementary medicines; and multiple industrial applications.

The regulatory reforms agreed to include reviewing the schedules to the Medicines Act to further enable cannabis grown for non-medicinal uses, including industrial purposes.

The Phakisa Action Lab further resolved to explore mechanisms to fast-track the removal of cannabis from the Drugs Act.

This will be a historic achievement through which the cultivation of non-medicinal cannabis will be legal under the terms and conditions of the Plant Improvement Act, which falls under DALRRD.

The development of the hemp and cannabis industry has so far seen the issuing of 83 cannabis licences, four manufacturing licences and 30 research permits by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) since 2022. The authority is an entity of the Department of Health

The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development has also issued 371 hemp permits, which has enabled significant investment, employment creation, the application of technology, intellectual property development and exports to highly competitive global markets.

And that is no smoke and mirrors story. - SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 10/31/2023 - 11:43

539 views

31 October 2023

President to update Parliament on accountability of South African (SA) Reserve Bank and efforts to combat violent crime

Location: News

The Presidency: Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 02 November 2023, engage with Members of Parliament (MPs) on diverse national issues when he responds to Questions for Oral Reply in the National Assembly.

Among issues MPs have raised with the President are:
• the mandate of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) and its accountability to Parliament;
• commissions of inquiry established by the President;
• combating violence against women and children;
• insights gained from the Census 2022 for macro-economic policy;
• fiscal discipline within Government.

The President will also discuss the state of readiness of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and its capacity to fulfill its constitutional mandate.

Parliamentary Questions for Oral and Written Reply are one of the mechanisms through which Parliament holds the Executive to account.

The Questions session will start at 14h00.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.

31 October 2023

A Rallying Cry For Unity And Triumph At The Cricket World Cup

Location: Sport

JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) extends its gratitude to President Cyril Ramaphosa for his unwavering support for the Proteas at the...

31 October 2023

SA in numbers

Location: News

SA in numbers

78% – the percentage of households in formal dwellings in 2011, which rose to 89% in 2022.

89% – the percentage of households in formal dwellings in 2022, which rose from 78% in 2011.

3 – years since government embarked on the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan, by 30 October 2023.

More than 2 million – jobs lost due to the negative economic effects of the Coronavirus pandemic.

2 million – the increase in the number of people with jobs over the last two years, bringing the level of employment close to its pre-pandemic level.

R350 – the value of the Social Relief of Distress Grant introduced by government in 2020 to keep millions of people out of poverty, and continues to provide much-needed support for those who are unemployed.

Over 1.2 million – employment opportunities created by the Presidential Employment Stimulus since its establishment, representing the largest expansion of public employment in South Africa’s history.

Over 4 million – young people registered on the SAYouth online platform, by 30 October 2023.

More than 1 million – young people registered on the SAYouth online platform, who have been able to access opportunities for learning and earning, by 30 October 2023.

26 – commuter rail corridors, out of 40, whose operations had been restored by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa, by 30 October 2023.

R50 billion – the amount to be spent over the next three years to modernise South Africa’s passenger rail network.

R17 billion – the value of the investment into the Mzimvubu Water Project in the Eastern Cape.

Over 12 000 – megawatts of confirmed projects in development as part of regulatory reforms government has initiated to enable a massive increase in private investment in electricity generation.

Over 4 500 – megawatts of installed rooftop solar that have more than doubled in the last year following the introduction of tax incentives and financing mechanisms.

20 – Economic Infrastructure Task Teams established by the South African Police Service throughout the country to protect critical infrastructure and tackle the “construction mafia”.

880 – members of the South African National Defence Force to be employed to support the police in combating criminal activity that targets critical economic infrastructure.

Over 3 000 – people arrested for illegal mining.

34 – State capture and corruption cases taken to court by the National Prosecuting Authority’s Investigating Directorate over the last four years, involving 205 accused persons.

205 – accused persons involved in 34 State capture and corruption cases taken to court by the National Prosecuting Authority’s Investigating Directorate over the last four years.

R14 billion – the value of freezing orders granted to the Asset Forfeiture Unit for State capture related cases.

Around R5.4 billion – the value of money recovered by the Asset Forfeiture Unit and returned to the State, by 30 October 2023.

18 cents – the amount for every rand that government collects in revenue that goes towards servicing South Africa’s national debt.

Over 6 months – the period during which government will accelerate the implementation of economic reforms.

4 – the number of times the Springboks became the world champions since the advent of democracy in South Africa in 1994.

15 December – the Friday in December 2023 that President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a public holiday in celebration of the Springboks’ momentous achievement and the achievements of all other sportsmen and sportswomen – and as a tribute to the resolve of the united nation. It is a day of hope, celebration and unity.

Matona
Tue, 10/31/2023 - 09:02

179 views

31 October 2023

Government partners with business to tackle economic challenges

Location: News

Government partners with business to tackle economic challenges

Government has established a partnership with business to work together in four critical areas, including energy, logistics, crime and corruption, and employment to give impetus to efforts currently being undertaken.

President Cyril Ramaphosa said this while delivering an address to the nation updating on the Economic Recovery progress on Monday.

“We continue to collaborate with organised labour and civil society to ensure a whole-of-society approach to addressing the most important challenges our country faces. All of this gives us hope that we are turning the tide on the many challenges that we face,” the President said.

This month marks three years since government embarked on the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan, which outlined the actions that it would take to rebuild the economy and create jobs in the wake of the COVID pandemic.

The President acknowledged that the last three years have been extremely challenging, as the country emerges from more than a decade of stagnant economic growth, compounded by the impact of the pandemic.

“We are working to reverse the legacy of the past era of corruption and mismanagement of our State-owned enterprises, which has left us with a persistent energy crisis and an inefficient ports and rail network.

“And we are contending with a range of global and domestic pressures which have set back our economic recovery. And yet, there are clear signs that our efforts are showing results. Electricity supply is improving. Jobs are being created.

“Houses, roads, bridges and dams are under construction. Law enforcement agencies are cracking down on criminal syndicates. The proceeds of State capture are being recovered. These are reasons for hope,” President Ramaphosa said.

Since then, in the midst of severe load shedding and increased global volatility, he highlighted that the economy has continued growing, albeit too slowly. He added that the economy has shown a significant degree of resilience and is now larger than it was before the pandemic.

Reforms – Energy Action Plan

Turning to one of the main challenges in the country, President Ramaphosa told the nation that progress is being made towards ending load shedding.

“We are making progress towards ending load shedding. Our greatest priority has been to reduce the severity and frequency of load shedding to achieve energy security. Over the last few months, there has been a measurable decline in the severity of load shedding,” the President said.

He noted that the Energy Action Plan he announced in July last year is showing positive results, “giving us greater confidence that we will bring load shedding to an end”.

The President said that regulatory reforms that have been initiated have enabled a massive increase in private investment in electricity generation, with over 12 000MW of confirmed projects in development.

Following the introduction of tax incentives and financing mechanisms, he said that the amount of installed rooftop solar has more than doubled to over 4 500MW in the last year.

“The steady progress we are making in resolving the energy crisis is a reason for hope,” he said.

Infrastructure

Another commitment made in the Reconstruction and Recovery Plan was to fix South Africa’s infrastructure through renewed investment in maintenance and construction of new projects.

The President highlighted that several significant infrastructure projects are underway.

“These projects are both contributing to greater economic activity and jobs, and providing much-needed infrastructure for the growth of our economy and the needs of our people.

“These infrastructure projects range from social housing, road construction, rural bridges, and dam constructions,” he said.

President Ramaphosa further highlighted that the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa has to date restored operations on 26 out of 40 commuter rail corridors.

To continue with the restoration of the country’s commuter rail corridors, he said R50 billion will be spent over the next three years to modernise the passenger rail network.

As part of the infrastructure build, the President said that the sixth administration is undertaking significant water infrastructure projects. These include Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project and the Mzimvubu water project in the Eastern Cape, which will involve an investment of R17 billion.

“Around the country, water treatment works are being upgraded, pumping stations are being repaired, and pipes are being laid to get water to under-serviced areas,” he noted.

Logistics system

President Ramaphosa said the country is making progress in restoring its logistics system to world-class standards, so that SA can export goods to global markets.

The National Logistics Crisis Committee is overseeing a range of interventions to stabilise and improve the performance of the logistics system in the short term, in addition to ongoing reform to improve its efficiency and competitiveness in the long term.

He said the Transnet board has developed a turnaround plan, which aims to increase volumes transported on SA’s network.

“Progress is also being made with the introduction of private sector participation in container terminals. I want to make it clear that South Africa’s port, rail and electricity infrastructure are strategic national assets, and that they will remain in public ownership.

“However, introducing competition in operations – both in electricity and logistics – will create greater efficiency and reduce prices in the long term, just as the introduction of competition in the telecommunications sector has led to greater choice and enormous benefits for consumers,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Mon, 10/30/2023 - 21:50

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