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[Marietta, GA] – Minbro Marietta is excited to announce the launch of its innovative coworking space in Marietta GA, designed for professionals and businesses seeking flexible, modern workspace options. Situated in a prime location, this premium facility caters to those in need of office space in Marietta or a versatile Marietta office space for rent. …
President Ramaphosa signs Electricity Regulation Amendment Act into law
President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act which sets out far-reaching reforms of the country’s electricity sector, including the establishment of a competitive electricity market.
In a statement on Friday, the Presidency said the bill assented to by the President amends the Electricity Regulation Act of 2006. This is so as to respond to current realities in the electricity sector.
It also opens up pathways to greater competition and reduced energy costs; increases investment in new generation capacity to achieve energy security; establishes an independent transmission company as the custodian of the national grid; and imposes severe penalties for damage to and sabotage of infrastructure.
The Electricity Regulation Amendment Act provides for the establishment, duties, powers and functions of the Transmission System Operator SOC Ltd (TSO) – which must be established as an independent entity within five years – and for the National Transmission Company of South Africa to act as the TSO in the interim.
It also provides for an open market platform that allows for competitive, wholesale or retail buying and selling of electricity.
The Act provides for market operation as a new activity that may be licensed by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA).
In addition, it requires the development of a Market Code that will establish rules to govern the future competitive market and outlines the process through which the code will be approved.
The Act further clarifies the principles that apply to the setting or approval of prices, charges and tariffs, providing, among others, that NERSA must enable an efficient licensee to recover the full cost of the licensed activity, must allow for a reasonable return proportionate to the risk of the licensed activity, and may provide for incentives for continued improvement of technical and economic efficiency.
As it does so, the regulator may consider factors such as security of supply, the diversity of supply and the promotion of renewable energy.
In addition, the Act distinguishes between tariffs that must be set or approved by the regulator, such as network charges, and those which are subject to a direct supply agreement or arise as an outcome of a competitive market.
“To ensure a level playing field for competition between multiple electricity generators, the Act provides that the system operator shall not discriminate between different generators or customers in relation to dispatching or balancing the system, except for objectively justifiable and identifiable reasons approved by the regulator.
“Access to the transmission and distribution power system must be objective, transparent and non-discriminatory,” said the Presidency.
These changes are in line with the broader reforms guided by the Energy Action Plan and the Eskom Roadmap, which aim to modernise and transform South Africa’s electricity system to end load shedding and ensure long-term energy security.
It is anticipated that diversity of supply and the promotion of renewables will stimulate a demand for new skills, innovation and technology in the electricity sector, which will generate new industrial activity and in turn mitigate unemployment.
Reinforcing the protection of public infrastructure as part of the fight against crime, the law provides for fines of up to R1 million or five years in prison – or both – for persons who, among other offences, damage, remove or destroy any transmission, distribution or reticulation cable, equipment or infrastructure.
Penalties for persons who unlawfully receive such cables, equipment or infrastructure face fines of up to R5 million or 10 years in prison, or both.
Going forward, the Act will lead to long term energy security, a more competitive energy system, more rapid uptake of renewable energy sources, and ultimately lower energy prices for all South Africans.
The Electricity Regulation Amendment (ERA) Bill was passed through a majority in the National Assembly in March.
READ | National Assembly passes Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill
-SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sat, 08/17/2024 - 08:32
In the world of marketing and trade shows, visibility and ease of setup are key to making a lasting impression. One of the most versatile tools for achieving this is the retractable banner. This simple yet effective promotional tool is designed to enhance your visibility and streamline your setup process. Here’s everything you need to …
Shipping containers have become an integral part of modern logistics, construction, and storage solutions. Their robust design and adaptability make them suitable for various uses beyond traditional shipping. This article explores the many facets of shipping containers, including the benefits of container conversions and the availability of shipping containers for sale. What Are Shipping …
Current concerns for store owners include: So-called ‘hermit’ consumers and how to draw them out The rise of the tech-savvy shopper and ‘phygital’ shopping The need for elevated in-store service Pervasive pragmatism and price consciousness Live-streamed sales promotions The recommerce boom Did you know retail sales are estimated to represent close to 20% of South …
New shopping centre and filling station planned for the precinct Recent sales at 1 300-hectare Renishaw Coastal Precinct have set off a chain reaction of development that will benefit local businesses, surrounding communities and outside investors, further igniting the economic reawakening of the KZN Mid-South Coast. On the morning of Wednesday, 7 August 2024, stakeholders …
In-between preparing for his highly anticipated fight later this month, UFC Middleweight Champion, Dricus du Plessis, has partnered with Checkers to launch two locally produced products for sports enthusiasts and fans. The Stillknocks shirt by Old School – a true collector’s item Dricus’ apparel brand, Stillknocks, and popular South African sports supporter gear brand, Old …
Providing freshness to the community of oThongathi
by Keneilwe Velaphi
Sabelo Mkhwanazi’s business, Mayanda Fresh supermarket, is centred on providing fresh produce to the community of oThongathi, KwaZulu-Natal.
Mkhwanazi said prior to launching the establishment, he realised that his community was complaining about purchasing expired and rotten goods from nearby shops, which prompted him to start the business model.
Mayanda Fresh was officially opened in June 2023.
“I entered the supermarket industry because I was driven by passion and the need to supply fresh high-quality produce to my community,” said Mkhwanazi.
The goal of Mayanda Fresh was to create a welcoming and convenient shopping experience to customers, while also supporting local farmers and suppliers.
“There is a need to offer a wide variety of fresh products at affordable prices. Another goal is to strive towards becoming a trusted name in the retail industry in South Africa.”
Mkhwanazi ensures stock availability through the use of advanced technology and strong supplier relationships.
“I have established a trustworthy relationship with my suppliers, allowing me flexible payment terms. This mutual trust ensures timely deliveries and consistent stock availability.”
This approach allows Mayanda Fresh to always supply customers with fresh produce.
Furthermore, Mkhwanazi’s state-of-the-art inventory management system accurately tracks all stock levels, providing real-time updates as he purchases and sells products.
He added that he has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers, stakeholders, and the community.
His supermarket also serves the residents of surrounding areas, as well as those who work in oThongathi.
“In order to attract and retain customers, I have strategically chosen to position my first store at the centre of the oThongathi central business district. This is a commercial area that is conveniently near residential neighbourhoods, and the location makes it easy for customers to access daily essentials.
He also leverages media relations to reach a wider audience, ensuring that more people are aware of what Mayanda Fresh has to offer.
The self-made entrepreneur said he did not receive funding from government but with the support of his family and community, he was able to establish his business.
“My business came across many challenges one of the biggest being managing the supply chain to ensure a consistent and timely delivery of fresh produce, and building, and maintaining strong relationships.”
Mkhwanazi has big growth plans.
"I plan to develop an e-commerce website to create an online business, allowing customers to shop from their homes and have their products delivered to their door,” he concluded.
Visit the Mayanda Fresh Instagram page @mayanda_fresh or follow them on Tik Tok @Mayanda Fresh.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Tue, 08/06/2024 - 11:48
RMB (www.RMB.com) has released the highly anticipated 2024 edition of its Where to Invest in Africa report, a comprehensive analysis of the top investment destinations on the continent. The report, which has been developed in collaboration with the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), leverages a robust methodology that has been updated to reflect new data sources, taking into account a variety of factors that have been proven to determine a country's progress and therefore its investment potential.
“Africa is not a country, but a vast, diverse and complex continent with different cultures, economies and investment potential. Our report therefore is not a definitive guide, but rather it is designed to provide insight to uncover the underlying drivers of a country's performance that inform its ranking. This offers invaluable insights for investors, policymakers, and business leaders looking to navigate Africa's dynamic economic landscape,” says Isaah Mhlanga, Chief Economist at RMB.
Expanded data, extended granularity
Investment decisions need to be viewed through both an economic performance lens and an operating environment lens. As a result, the methodology used for this edition of the Where to Invest in Africa report builds and expands on previous editions, taking into account new data sets as well as changing geopolitical and macroeconomic climates.
The scorecard for the 2024 issue highlights 31 countries that collectively represent 92% of the continent's economic activity (measured by GDP), and more than one billion people (three quarters of the continent's population). It draws on publicly available data sets from global institutions, including the World Bank, the IMF, the African Development Bank, the United Nations, and the International Labour Organisation.
The model is constructed from 20 metrics across four measurement pillars: economic performance and potential; market accessibility and innovation; economic stability and investment climate; and social and human development. Each metric is weighted, which translates into a weight for each pillar, and based on these metrics a standardised scorecard is produced, with rankings that enable effective comparison across Africa's complex and heterogeneous environment.
Africa's top five investment destinations
Combining these elements results in a ranking across the 31 countries measured. The results of the report show that the two small island economies of Seychelles and Mauritius rank first and second as the most attractive investment destinations on the continent, while the significantly larger economies of Egypt, South Africa, and Morocco rank in third, fourth and fifth places respectively.
Seychelles leads the rankings thanks to high levels of personal freedom, human development, and a stable economic environment. Seychelles offers a unique and attractive investment climate. Despite scoring lower on economic size and potential, Mauritius is known for innovation, economic freedom, and high GDP per capita. It continues to be a top destination for investors seeking stability and growth opportunities in a well-regulated environment.
Egypt represents Africa's largest economy by GDP (2023), offering a substantial market with diverse opportunities in sectors like technology, manufacturing, and services. Its strategic location and economic complexity further enhance its attractiveness. Despite facing significant challenges, South Africa remains a crucial hub for investment in Africa. Its robust financial sector, diverse economy, and potential for infrastructure development make it a key player. Finally, Morocco's strong performance in connectedness, innovation, and economic stability positions it as a top investment destination. Its strategic proximity to European markets adds to its appeal.
Distilling diversity – investment archetypes explained
Africa is an incredibly diverse continent, and no two markets are the same, which means there is no such thing as a universal success story. However, when we zoom out and view nations through the lenses of size and the relevant investability score, it becomes apparent that they fall into distinct groupings with shared traits. The 2024 edition of Where to Invest in Africa suggests five potential investment archetypes based on shared characteristics revealed through the four measurement pillars.
‘Highflyers' represent the large, well-established economies that offer stability and a range of investment opportunities, such as Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt and Ethiopia. Those ‘Cleared for Take-off' are countries with high economic growth and innovation potential thanks to factors like a young population and abundant resources, including Senegal and Côte d'Ivoire. ‘People Potential' are markets with a young and growing demographic, creating a sizeable consumer base and a future workforce, such as Kenya, DRC and Uganda. ‘Global Connectors' are more advanced economies with a strong international presence, such as Morocco, Mauritius, Tunisia and Seychelles. ‘Low-Base Boomers' are smaller markets with high potential for explosive growth but a corresponding higher degree of risk, including Rwanda, Mozambique, and Benin.
Additional insights unpacked
The report also highlights a number of trends across the various markets, and the role of innovation and economic complexity in driving growth is a central theme. Countries such as South Africa, Kenya, and Ghana are noted for their strides in technological innovation and diversification of their economic bases, making them attractive destinations for investment.
The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) holds significant potential for boosting intra-African trade, enhancing economic integration, and creating a more competitive continental market. Effective implementation of the AfCFTA is expected to drive economic growth and development across the continent. Africa's young and rapidly growing population also presents a unique opportunity for economic growth, with countries like Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Uganda poised to benefit from this demographic dividend, provided they can create sufficient employment opportunities and foster a conducive environment for economic participation.
In addition, there are a number of emerging markets with significant growth potential, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya. Despite facing challenges such as political instability and infrastructural deficits, these countries offer substantial opportunities due to their large and youthful populations, improving business climates, and diversification efforts. Africa's vast natural resources, including minerals and arable land, are pivotal for sustainable economic growth. However, the report cautions against the "resource curse" and underscores the importance of good governance and strategic management. Angola, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of Congo are highlighted for their rich resources and potential for sustainable development.
One area that requires critical attention across the continent is the need for infrastructure investment. Improved transportation, energy, and digital infrastructure are essential for unlocking Africa's economic potential, and South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria are identified as key markets where infrastructure development could yield significant returns.
Beyond the rankings – a deeper look at African investment
Looking beyond metrics and scorecards, Africa holds massive potential but equally faces numerous challenges. The continent is rich in natural resources, which can be a major driver of economic growth, but they also present challenges in the form of corruption and environmental degradation. Increased activity around trade agreements can open new markets for foreign investors and boost economic activity, but lack of adequate infrastructure is a major hurdle for many African economies. Investment in this space will improve connectivity and create new opportunities, while rapid and increasing urbanisation will prove attractive to investors in consumer goods, retail, and financial services. Finally, countries in Africa are embracing new technologies, leapfrogging traditional development stages and creating new investment opportunities in the tech sector.
“The richness of Africa's diversity makes fully analysing its nuance and contrast a challenging task, but an important one when it comes to understanding the varied markets that make up this vast regional economy. The 2024 RMB Where to Invest in Africa report aims to develop a balanced, robust and actionable view of the drivers, challenges and opportunities that characterise each of the 31 African markets included in the analysis,” Mhlanga concludes.
Download the full report here to uncover the insights and drive more informed investment decisions.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rand Merchant Bank.
Under One Roof (www.UnderOneRoof.co.za), is an entirely new concept set to solve some of the most frustrating problems encountered with other property listing websites. It introduces a homeownership resource-concentrated hub that not only presents properties for rent or sale - which uniquely also assists its clients to complete a transfer to a new owner - but also incorporates offerings that empower homeowners to make well-informed decisions about their lifestyle.
Simultaneously, Under One Roof heralds the entry of a new female real estate CEO, Lynne Krawchuk, who is set to change the traditionally heavily-male dominated property executive clique. Her decades of experience as a marketing professional give Under One Roof the edge when it comes to converting website visitors to loyal clients, putting their needs and wants ahead of merely presenting a search engine of listings.
“We are going to completely change the way properties are showcased,” says Krawchuk. “We will reveal the power of delivering an innovative property ecosystem that will optimise anyone's property journey, be that the property practitioner or agency, the buyer, seller, or renter.”
Under One Roof is something not yet seen before on existing South African property platforms, where listings and advice remain unsupported by other digital marketing strategies, and which are not catering to the different demographic markets.
“This is likely due to complacency by the dominant few property-listing players who have amassed a following due to their monopoly. As such they have created an uneven playing field that restricts the marketing efforts of, particularly, the small-, micro-, and medium-sized property players who are further compromised by the prevailing challenge of diminishing property prices and weakened purchasing power of consumers,” says Krawchuk.
The key differentiator with Under One Roof is its functionality and pricing plan. Krawchuk explains that all users, be those buyers, sellers, renters, landlords, developers, or property practitioners, are provided with a unique login aligned to their own customised backend dashboard.
“Here they can access in-depth data relevant to individual listed properties, be that municipal charges or alternative power and water solutions. Buyers and renters will be able to download walk-through video's and monitor listings they are interested in for an easy revisit or comparison.”
Estate agents and private listers will be able to monitor the number of visitors to their listings, update, and edit details, and can avail of either a three- or six-month subscription per listing with a unique twist. “If the property is sold before the subscription expires, the outstanding months of the package can be transferred to another property listing, provided the first property sale is proven. We can even upload listings if that is preferred, at no charge,” explains Krawchuk.
For buyers, especially those who either do not fully comprehend the property purchase journey or are frustrated by the number of steps in the process, Under One Roof offers to source bond origination, bridging finance, rate clearance certificates and assistance with the transfer. “This feature alone responds to an undeniably underserved market, more specifically first-time home buyers and millennials who prefer to engage a full-range service.”
The Under One Roof customer-centric approach is also going to present as a novelty, for while technology may be driving the platform, AI chatbots are not a feature. “Our research indicates that customers prefer having a human respond to online or email queries. We acknowledge that while today's customers are considered as ‘smart consumers' who may be familiar with the digital realm, chatbots have no empathy, are unable to solve critical problems, and tend to aggravate users who may have a unique request.”
As Under One Roof grows, so too will the breadth of the platform. “Beyond the necessary features, we are concentrating on targeted demographics, where demands differ in terms of cultural and locality preferences,” says Krawchuk. “For example, in the future we will be presenting neighbourhood video visits hosted by a typical resident, and guidance manuals and features that highlight lifestyle choices. Commercial and retail properties will also be introduced.
“We believe that Under One Roof is the most intelligent, powerful, transparent, and streamlined real estate game-changer since property listings went online in the late 90s,” emphasises Krawchuk. “The team at Under One Roof is intentional about manifesting change in the market by filling the gaps that have been prevalent for too long. And, while others may think we are a disruptor, we disagree! We prefer to think of ourselves as renegades by challenging the existing, staid, and unadventurous status quo.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Under One Roof.
About Under One Roof:
Under One Roof (www.UnderOneRoof.co.za) is reinventing the property listing experience by delivering a one-to-one personalisation online platform for agents, buyers, sellers, and renters. It has developed a unique South African approach to all thing's property-focused, including lifestyle, with its presentation of a combination of digital and human interactions. Under One Roof is a compelling property hub that speaks to, and inspires, a new generation of property stakeholders.
Headquarters: Pretoria, South Africa
For more information, please visit our website: www.UnderOneRoof.co.za
The 2024 Parkview Potjiekos competition was a huge success, and initial figures suggest that we sold almost 2000 meals and raised over R200,000. This is great news as all the proceeds go toward the Nicarela beneficiary charities. Daneel Jordaan, the chairman of Nicarela said: “This event shows the power of community. We are immensely grateful …
Fuel price decreases in August
The Department of Minerals and Petroleum Resources has announced decreases for all grades of fuel for the month of August.
The price decreases expected to kick in on Wednesday are as follows:
• Petrol 93 (ULP and LRP): 15 cents decrease
• Petrol 95 (ULP and LRP): 15 cents decrease
• Diesel (0.05% sulphur): 28 cents decrease
• Diesel (0.005% sulphur): 17 cents decrease
• Illuminating Paraffin (wholesale): 22 cents decrease
• Single Maximum National Retail Price for illuminating paraffin: 29 cents decrease.
• Maximum LP Gas Retail Price: 14 cents per kg decrease
This means that a litre of 95 petrol, which currently costs R23.26 in Gauteng, will now cost 23.11 cents a litre as of Wednesday.
In a statement on Monday, the department explained the international and local factors leading to the price adjustments for this month.
“The average Brent Crude oil price increased from 82.24 US Dollars (USD) to 83.55 USD per barrel, during the period under review. The main contributing factors are the decline in US inventories, reduced production from Canada due to the wildfires, tensions in the Middle East as well as continued production cuts by OPEC [Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries].
“The average international product prices for petrol increased slightly on average as the summer seasonal demand in the Northern Hemisphere improved, while diesel and illuminating paraffin prices decreased on average during the period under review.
“The Rand appreciated on average, against the US Dollar (from 18.44 to 18.23 Rand per USD) during the period under review when compared to the previous one. This led to lower contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of all products by about 14.00 per litre,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:00
Orms, known to Cape Town’s creative community as the one stop destination for all things photographic and creative, is calling for entries for its 5th Annual Sea Point Promenade Photographic Exhibition Competition. Every year, this open-air curated group exhibition – hosted by Orms in collaboration with Canon and SJ Artists – thrills promenade visitors, who …
At the water’s edge, where visitors from near and far gather for an unparalleled retail experience, public opinion is paramount. The V&A Waterfront would not be the inclusive, accessible neighbourhood it is without the support of its visitors, which is why this year’s new Neighbourhood Retail Tenant Awards are turning to the people who matter …
SA to further focus on manufacturing and exports to grow economy
Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield says it is essential that South Africa’s economic growth is grounded in manufacturing-led growth and export-oriented economy.
To this end, the department will support local industries to increase their manufacturing capacity and volumes, enhance their competitiveness and identify suitable export markets for their manufactured products.
Whitfield was speaking during a debate on the Budget Vote of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Parliament on Tuesday.
“It is essential that South Africa’s economic growth is grounded in manufacturing-led growth.
“Manufacturing is indeed less volatile and less vulnerable to economic downturns and will create real, sustainable and decent paying jobs for our people.
“South Africa must also create an export-oriented economy. A dedicated focus on manufacturing growth will also lead to export growth,” he said.
Whitfield said one of the dtic’s key focus areas under the new administration will be a renewed export drive to lower the risk of slow domestic growth, while also identifying high growth opportunities.
“The creation of an export-oriented economy can be realised through a dedicated focus on implementing measures to boost the competitiveness of local industries in global markets, streamlining export processes, lowering trade barriers, offering financial and technical assistance to exporters and cultivating beneficial trade alliances with other nations,” explained Whitfield.
He said South Africa’s exports in May this year totalled over R178 billion and the country recorded a trade surplus of over R20 billion, significantly higher than forecast, and the widest trade surplus in six months.
“This is commendable and illustrates the important contribution that exports can make to our fiscus. We will support local industries by building a supportive and competitive ecosystem to drive manufacturing growth.
“We will also identify intermediate goods that could make our manufacturers more competitive; as well as identify products that we produce competitively and the markets that consume those products in large and/or growing volumes,” Whitfield said.
Earlier this month, dtic Minister Parks Tau reiterated the commitment to “smart industrial policy”, which will support the successful implementation of government’s development imperatives.
READ | The dtic to support programmes outlined by the President
“In line with what the President said [during the Opening of Parliament Address] when talking about smart industrial policy, the dtic group will implement sectoral plans building on the successes recorded in the automotive, clothing and textiles, retail and agro-processing sectors.
“Smart industrial policy speaks to underlining beneficiation and export-led growth. It highlights the imperatives of the Public Procurement Act that will complement the essential legislative tools to unlock localisation and transformation.
“Every year the South African economy spends 25% of the national wealth created on imported goods. Not only is this propensity to import much greater than our competitor countries, it is also out of sync with our developmental needs,” Tau said.
The Minister said government will reverse this in pharmaceuticals and medical devices, green industries, food products and manufactured goods, among others. He noted that smart industrial policies and programmes are being implemented to respond to the global market trends towards electric vehicles. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 07/31/2024 - 14:31
JR Promotions Western Cape, a leading name in the promotions industry, continues to redefine the landscape of in-store brand activations. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for creating memorable brand experiences, the company stands at the forefront of below-the-line marketing, helping brands connect with consumers in meaningful and impactful ways. Pioneering In-Store Activations …
Exness (https://apo-opa.co/3LKDl87), one of the largest multi-asset retail brokers in the world, has announced that it has reached yet another significant regulatory milestone. The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) has granted the company an ‘Over-the-Counter Derivative Provider' (ODP) license in South Africa, broadening its license portfolio.
This achievement underscores Exness' dedication to client security, high regulatory standards, and transparency within the South African market.
The ODP license mandates stringent risk management protocols, and reporting standards, providing clients with an extra layer of protection in the trading environment. This enhanced regulatory status further reinforces Exness' position as a trusted broker for local traders.
Paul Margarites, Exness Regional Commercial Director, said, "The ODP license acquisition signifies a significant stepping stone for Exness in South Africa. Our promise to provide a frictionless trading experience doesn't stop at trading conditions and a seamless client journey but extends to robust safety and security measures that put our clients first. In today's online trading landscape adherence to the FSCA's stringent standards ensures that our South African clients have an extra layer of peace of mind when trading with Exness.”
Exness uses technology and ethics to raise the industry benchmark and create favourable conditions for traders. It offers clients a frictionless trading experience through its superior proprietary platform and unique market protections, allowing traders to experience how the markets should be.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Exness.
Johannesburg, South Africa, 22 July 2024 – Nicci Boutiques is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated reopening of its flagship store in Hyde Park Corner, Johannesburg. As a long-standing fixture in one of South Africa’s premier shopping centres, Nicci is set to redefine the shopping experience for its customers with a transformed and updated store. …
Introduction In a world where financial transactions are becoming increasingly digital, the physical handling of cash and payment devices remains a cornerstone of many businesses. Cash handling equipment distributors play a vital role in providing the necessary tools to ensure these transactions are conducted smoothly and securely. The Importance of Cash Handling Equipment Cash …
South Africa’s choice of motor vehicle segment and body shape is changing – perhaps permanently – and, as a struggling market adapts to new realities, brand favourites face challenges too. South Africa’s motor retail industry landscape over the past 15 years has been affected by slow economic growth, poor infrastructure, political uncertainty and a series …
SevenC, a leading IT infrastructure and network service provider striving to identify and make available the best possible ICT strategies for its clients’ unique needs, explores the value of artificial intelligence and machine learning for South African companies. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are not just buzzwords; they are transformative technologies reshaping industries …
Johannesburg – Pest Control WR, a leading pest control company in Johannesburg, highlights the essential connection between food safety and pest control in the retail industry. With years of experience, Pest Control WR has gained valuable insights into how proper pest management ensures compliance with food safety standards, protecting both businesses and consumers. The Critical …
Listening to the soulful singing of young women and girls in Nomzamo township in Strand, Cape Town, South Africa, and watching their jubilant dancing, it would be difficult to guess the complex and life-threatening challenges they have faced in their young lives. These girls and women, members of the Young Women for Life Movement, have every reason to be ecstatic; they are extricating themselves from the cycle of poverty and the effects of HIV/AIDS and GBV in a country where women are disproportionately affected by HIV.
Of the nearly 7.5 million adults living with HIV in South Africa by 2021, nearly two-thirds (64 per cent) were women, with black women aged 25-34 years having the highest prevalence, at 31.6 per cent, and highest incidence, at 4.5 per cent according to data from The Lancet. While the infection rate has dropped from 14 per cent in 2017 to slightly less than 13 per cent in 2022, according to the Human Sciences Research Council's 2023 data, the rates are still quite high, translating to more than 1 in 10 persons living with HIV in South Africa.
This feminized HIV epidemic is mostly due to high levels of inequality. South Africa has the highest income inequality in the world, according to the World Bank. Unemployment is rampant, and many women and girls do not have good economic prospects. For many, this makes them vulnerable to risky sexual behavior as they struggle to survive. This is compounded by high rates of GBV in the area and in the country in general. Young women and girls in Strand area's townships know this all too well.
“Before I got wind of the Young Women for Life Movement, I had given up on life,” said Sinesipho, fondly referred to as “Shorty” due to her pint size by members of the group that she now considers her sisterhood. Sinesipho Petshana had a difficult background at home, low self-esteem, and was engaging in risky sexual behaviour out of desperation to help make ends meet.
“By speaking with me about my potential and growing my skills through training, the group changed my mind and this helped me change my life,” she said. Now working as a cashier in a retail store in Cape Town, she is proud of how far she has come and calls the Young Women for Life Movement a lifesaver.
Started in 2019 as an informal group of just eight young women and girls aged 15 to 28 who wanted to give each other moral support, the Young Women for Life Movement has now impacted 8,000 girls in South Africa alone. Convened by the Southern Africa Catholic Bishops' Conference and Peace Commission, the movement is supported by UN Women through funding from the Unified Budget, Results and Accountability Framework (UBRAF) as part of the outreach under the HeForShe campaign.
Through its partnership with Work4aLiving, a skills-building programme and one of the three pillars of the Young Women for Life Movement, the community group has trained women and girls in Nomzamo Township in entrepreneurship, financial management, baking, and other skills to help them begin to earn an income and become self-sufficient. Earlier this year, 70 girls graduated from a hospitality course offered under the Movement. Many of them have already secured jobs in the city.
Guguletu Mdoba (Gugu), 29, another member of the Movement, is a shining example of how the girls and young women are pulling themselves out of poverty. Now a renowned baker in the area, Gugu's products are so popular that she can barely keep up with her customers' orders. Training on financial literacy helped her learn how to save and budget, and she has used this new knowledge to expand her enterprise. This year, she bought a bigger kitchen stove and also began training other young women and girls in the area to bake, which is having a positive ripple effect on their household incomes. Overwhelmed with demand, she is now expanding into a more established fast-food shop.
“Some of the girls and young women in the group are living with HIV,” said Phindile Maseko, Coordinator of the Young Women for Life Movement, who the members call Sis. Phindile, meaning Sister, out of admiration. “They were so discouraged when we met them that they had even stopped taking antiretroviral (ARV) medication as they felt that they had nothing to live for,” said Phindile, who also serves as the Facilitator of Work4aLiving.
The COVID-19 pandemic further complicated the situation for these girls. Like elsewhere on the globe, the pandemic wreaked havoc on incomes and livelihoods in this already vulnerable township, driving many families into hunger. The effects were complex as lack of access to meals severely interfered with ARV compliance.
With support from UN Women and partners, girls and young women from the Movement managed to access seedlings and technical know-how to start small-scale vegetable farming. The project thrived and now not only caters for the members, their families, and the community, but also generates income through the supply of fresh produce to shops.
What started as a small circle of 80 girls in 2019 has become a movement of 8,000 girls in South Africa alone. The project is expanding to Eswatini, Lesotho, Botswana and also starting a chapter in Namibia.
“The Young Women for Life project demonstrates that it is possible to reduce HIV infections and end the cycle of risky behaviour and violence,” said Jacqueline Utamuriza-Nzisabira, HIV/AIDS Specialist for UN Women East and Southern Africa and the manager of this project, “These girls decided to take their lives into their own hands and are no longer on a destructive path that was going nowhere.”
The young women's and girls' rallying cry, “Asinaluvalo”, meaning "We are not afraid", is testament to their resilience and newfound hope.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN Women - Africa.
22 July, Johannesburg. The Neighbourhood Square premier convenience shopping centre in Linksfield, Johannesburg, has transferred into the hands of its new owners Flanagan & Gerard Property Group and Burstone Group (JSE: BTN). Burstone Group partnered with retail real estate specialist Flanagan & Gerard to acquire the strategic retail asset, with each owner holding a 50% …