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Johannesburg, 16 May 2024: The Black Business Council (BBC) applauds the ESKOM Board ably led by Chairman Mteto Nyati, Management lead by GCEO Dan Marokane, Group Generation led by Bheki Nxumalo as Group Executive and all employees on improving the Energy Availability Factor (EAF) to 70.78%, “a milestone last achieved nearly three (3) years ago. This …
Swanson, a renowned international brand specialising in premium vitamins, supplements, and natural health products, is thrilled to announce its official launch in South Africa. With over 50 years of experience delivering high-quality supplements and natural health solutions globally, Swanson is set to empower individuals across South Africa with its trusted range of products now available …
Hundreds come to central Durban to hand over memo to Premier’s office
Africa’s two leading providers in the shared workspace industry, KOFISI and Workshop17, have announced a strategic partnership to provide a wider range of services and locations across Africa. The demand for shared workspace continues to grow faster in Africa than the rest of the world – fueled by the growth in the working age population …
Celebrating excellence in African real estate, including South Africa: enter now! Johannesburg, 13 May 2024 – The 8th annual African Property Investment Awards (API Awards) are now open for entries. This prestigious platform recognises excellence in the African real estate industry. This year, for the first time, the #APIawards will be open to entries from …
BCX Alibaba Cloud Academy and Arovy University have joined forces in a strategic partnership aimed at empowering students to cultivate essential skills for the expanding digital economy in Africa. The basis of this initiative is the Alibaba Cloud Academic Empowerment Programme, a pioneering effort to embed digital excellence within academic institutions globally. Arovy University, situated …
30 years of democracy: The electrification of South African households
Despite a myriad of challenges – both present and past – along the way, the South African government through Eskom and municipalities has made great strides towards achieving universal access to electricity in the country.
This came out during a roundtable on the electrification programme since 1994 hosted by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).
According to the Eskom website, in 1987, fewer than 13 million people had access to electricity with the vast majority of that access servicing white households – leaving other population groups reeling in the dark.
At the dawn of democracy in 1994, Parliament endorsed a plan to create universal access to electricity – defined at some 97% due to population growth and challenges related to the formalisation of informal settlements.
This charged government’s wholesale plan to electrify homes. Now, access to electricity in South Africa today is at least 94% according to Statistics South Africa.
Director Project Monitoring and Intergovernmental Relations at the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, Lufuno Madzhie, said the electrification programme has thus far, been a success.
“[During 1994 to 1998] Eskom and municipalities only electrified 2.5 million households. In 2001, then government decided this [electrification] programme needs to reside within the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy [DMRE]. Through us as the department, working with different stakeholders, we have achieved a lot with regard to this electrification programme.
“Through this programme, the department has achieved a huge milestone. Currently, we have electrified over 8.3 million households,” he said.
Eskom’s Pozisa Njezula emphasised how access to electricity improves the welfare of households and explained how Eskom contributes to facilitating access for hard-to-reach rural areas.
“[It allows for the] improving on safety where we no longer have to use candles and paraffin stoves. It improves on convenience where we no longer have to collect wood to cook and also, in terms of improving on education where kids can study at night.
“With…us now pushing towards universal access, the challenge that we are now faced with is that we now have to reach the far-flung areas. The far corners in all the rural areas. With the support from the DMRE, as Eskom we have started and embarked on the rolling out of micro grids for those far-flung areas where you may not be able to get grid electricity because of losses as well as the amount of money that you would have to spend to get to those areas.
“The [micro grid] is just a container, it has solar panels, it has got batteries and then you’ve got the reticulation network. When you get to a certain area, you electrify it off grid and those people benefit,” she said.
Challenges and solutions
Njezula bemoaned that although the electrification programme is going full steam ahead, the power utility faces serious and dangerous challenges when going into communities.
“We are not immune as Eskom to the crime [and] extortion in our project sites. In South Africa, with almost all the projects that are being undertaken, there’s reports of these extortions and these demands for certain amounts of money, for protection fees and so forth.
“That delays the progress in our projects, and it really puts the lives of our employees as well as our contractors in danger. In some instances, we have to leave site, we need to be escorted, we need protection,” she said.
Head of energy and electricity distribution at the South African Local Government Association, Nhlanhla Ngidi, described South Africa’s electrification plan as a “moving target”.
“In terms of access itself, at 94%, I think it’s very important that people understand because this is a moving target. In a year’s time, you could find this being below 94% and it’s because of all these challenges…people moving towards where the economy is more active.
“Municipalities have done quite well but with the capacity challenges we have, we still need municipalities to be assisted and government needs to put in place agencies that can come in and be catalysts in terms of the implementation of the programme,” he said.
Energy expert, Chris Yelland, agreed that access to electricity has improved but warned that affordability remains a blockage to some households.
“[There] are some technology developments that require that we look at these distant rural customers. The first thing of course is renewable energy. The price of renewable energy…has come down dramatically over the last ten years. This is now opening the doors to renewable energy for remote households that never existed ten years ago.
“There’s a lot to celebrate in electrification [but] there’s a lot to do about affordability. We are not there yet. We need to understand where we come from, where we are and where we’re going and for that we need data…so that we know where we are and where we’re going” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 05/14/2024 - 14:06
The majority of people who rent residential accommodation do so for financial reasons with nearly half admitting they can’t afford to buy a property, according to credit bureau TPN’s latest Tenant Survey. The annual Tenant Survey Report provides the property sector, including property owners and managers, with insights into tenants’ needs, wants, aspirations, and challenges, …
Below this article is a list of around 600 OUTLINKS that have been clicked on from MyPR to the site/s listed. If you are reading this and saying; “Huh!” then let me quickly précis for you why this is a GOOD THING: In the world of digital marketing, search engine optimization (SEO) plays a crucial …
Outsourced CFO marked a significant milestone as they were honoured with the prestigious title of Xero Partner of the Year 2024. The award was accepted by Jacques le Grange and Damian Baker during a vibrant ceremony, celebrating their leadership in cloud accounting. This accolade comes as a recognition of the exceptional contributions made by the …
Gauteng, South Africa – TT Waterproofing, a trusted leader in the roofing and waterproofing industry, announces its commitment to providing tailored solutions for the unique challenges faced by industrial clients. With over 9 years of experience serving the Gauteng region and beyond, TT Waterproofing continues to uphold its reputation for excellence and reliability. Industrial facilities …
First Care Solutions launches a first-of-its-kind healthcare platform built for patients, doctors, and businesses. Johannesburg, South Africa: First Care Solutions today announced CareFirst, an innovative digital healthcare platform, a bouquet of technology solutions that is revolutionising the way medical care is delivered. CareFirst Virtual Healthcare aims to bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers …
The United Nations Secretary-General's Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, will visit South Africa from 13 to 15 May 2024 to support national and local authorities' road safety initiatives. In particular, the Special Envoy will launch the UN Global Campaign for Road Safety, in partnership with the No.1 outdoor advertising company worldwide, JCDecaux, under the hashtag #MakeASafetyStatement.
One of the main goals of this campaign is to raise awareness of life-saving actions among young generations, who as statistics show, are the major victims of road crashes especially for young people aged from 5 to 29 years old worldwide. Supporting the efforts of South Africa in addressing this issue is key in a country where more than 60% of the population is under 35 years old.
The launch events are to be held in Johannesburg and Pretoria with the participation of the Minister of Transport of South Africa and the Executive Mayors of Tshwane and Johannesburg.
Mr. Todt will meet members of the Government as well as representatives of the private and public sectors and NGOs to advocate for the effective implementation of the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, which aims to halve the number of road fatalities by 2030.
"Africa is the continent most affected by road crashes. Knowing that these affect the youngest first, it is beyond the human tragedy, an economic devastation sacrificing or invalidating for life the active force of a country. While the vaccine to avoid this carnage on the road exists, I urgently call on everyone to use it," said the Special Envoy.
#MakeASafetyStatement
Ten South African celebrities including Yvonne Chaka-Chaka, Bryoni Govender, Dr. Khumalo, Sello Maake Ka Ncube, Maduvha Madima, Leanne Manas, Dr. Moratwe Masima, Thokozani Ndaba, Gaisang Noge, and Caster Semenya, will join the campaign's worldwide ambassadors to encourage users to adopt simple but effective rules to keep their roads safe.
“Human Factors contribute 88% to South African road fatalities and therefore the involvement of celebrities as role models for the Youth in the #MakeASafetyStatement campaign will contribute towards the reduction of accidents on our roads,” stressed Ms. Sindisiwe Lydia Chikunga, Minister of Transport of the Republic of South Africa.
New alarming figures
The Special Envoy's visit coincides with the recent release of the Global Status Report on Road Safety 2023 from the World Health Organization (WHO) on road safety, highlighting that Africa remains the region the most affected by this tragedy.
According to the WHO report, the number of victims on African roads continues to grow with a mortality rate of 19/100,000 people, while in Europe, we observe a rate of 7 deaths/100,000 people. In South Africa, there are 25 deaths per 100,000 people.
According to the World Bank (2026), the cost of road crashes represented 8.6% of South Africa's GDP in 2016. The RTMC 2023 State of Road safety Report highlights for 2023 the rate of 2.74% of South Africa 's GDP.
Reliable data for swift revitalization
Recent bus accidents have highlighted the run-down state of Africa's vehicle fleet. Failure to comply with the Highway Code and to enforce penalties are also significant causes of accidents.
Solutions to be implemented include adhering to the African Road Safety Charter and the United Nations Conventions on Road Safety, strengthening the health services that treat the injured and stepping up public awareness campaigns. Systematically collecting reliable data on road accidents and monitoring casualties is also a key element in reducing the number of victims.
There is also a need to protect the most vulnerable road users, pedestrians, and cyclists, who are often the most disadvantaged and the youngest. Africa has the highest proportion of cyclist and pedestrian deaths, accounting for 44% of all road deaths.
In South Africa, the efforts of the authorities are to be commended, with new initiatives such as the implementation of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences, the adoption of new technologies to enhance access to traffic licensing services (National Traffic Information System Online Services), the professionalization of the Traffic and Road Safety Officers Training through the National Framework Level 6 Qualification), Standardization and Harmonization of Traffic Law Enforcement and the development of a National Traffic Law Enforcement Code.
Risk factors that are too often neglected
Drink-driving, speeding, drowsiness, carelessness, non-use of seatbelts and helmets, negligence and non-compliance with the Highway Code are responsible for most road accidents in Africa. However, according to the WHO, more progress must be made regarding legislation and safety standards.
Only six countries in the world have laws that comply with WHO best practices for all the risk factors - speeding, driving under the influence or distracted driving, use of UN-standard motorbike helmets, and use of seatbelts and child restraints.
In South Africa, speeding in urban areas is high (60KM/h), and child restraint systems are not always available. At a time when the use of motorbikes is on the increase, particularly among young people, the wearing of seatbelts and quality helmets remains a real challenge, even though it could prevent many deaths and reduce the risk of serious injury by 69%.
Recent data reveal that the majority of road crashes occur at night from Friday till Sunday with youth and pedestrians being the lead victims.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).
What is a Distribution Board? A distribution board is a critical component of an electrical supply system that divides an electrical power feed into subsidiary circuits, providing a protective fuse or circuit breaker for each circuit within a common enclosure. Exploring Types and Features of Distribution Boards There are various types of distribution boards …
GITEX Africa 2024 (www.GITEXAfrica.com), the continent's largest tech and startup exhibition scheduled from 29-31 May in Marrakech, Morocco, emerges as a pivotal platform for exploring the intersections of digital transformation, financial inclusion, and economic empowerment. As South Africa's banking of finance sector takes center stage in this global dialogue, the event promises to be a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and growth.
In South Africa, digital transformation has become imperative across industries, and the financial sector is no exception. From the convenience of online banking to mobile payment solutions, banks are leveraging digital technologies to enhance efficiency, improve customer experience, and expand access to financial services.
With a growing youth population favoring digital banking, financial institutions are investing in user-friendly mobile apps and online platforms to meet evolving customer preferences.
Banks Face Competition from Fintech and Innovative Platforms
These digital banking platforms provide users with convenient access to a wide range of financial services, including account management, payments, and lending, all through intuitive user-friendly mobile and online interfaces.
However, amidst this digital transformation, banks face stiff competition from a diverse array of players, including agile fintech startups and innovative tech-driven platforms. These disruptors offer innovative solutions that challenge traditional norms and cater to evolving customer needs.
South African fintech startups, recognized locally and globally, provide convenient digital banking services, investment platforms, and innovative lending solutions, drawing customers away from traditional banks with their agility and customer-centric approach. In 2021, South Africa boasted the highest number of fintech startups in the African region with 154 companies (https://apo-opa.co/3KjmVTL). As of May 2022, fintech startups in South Africa secured close to $US77 million (https://apo-opa.co/3ys79ms).
The fintech value chain encompasses a wide range of services including banking, infrastructure, crowdfunding, digital currencies, lending, payment, and regulation technology.
By facilitating dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing, GITEX Africa accelerates the pace of digital transformation in the financial services sector, driving inclusive growth and economic empowerment across the African continent. Among the more than 35 esteemed speakers from South Africa include Lillian Barnard, President at Microsoft Africa; Zondwa Mandela from Mandela Legacy; and Chipo Mushwana, Executive of Emerging Innovation and Payments, Nedbank.
Major South African investment funds, unicorns, and start-ups fast-forwarding cross-continental progress at GITEX AFRICA 2024 include SAVANT, Zindi, and go1.
Lillian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa, said: “Africa has long been recognised for its formidable growth prospects and AI is the long-awaited key to help unlock that potential.”
“The AI-powered innovation we're seeing today is poised to reinvent every aspect of society from healthcare to financial services, manufacturing and beyond. If Africa is to benefit from the paradigm shift currently sweeping the globe, we must make the promise of AI real for people and organisations across the continent – and do so responsibly.”
Hands-on Support Required for Startups
Bongani Sithole, CEO of Founders Factory Africa and a speaker at GITEX Africa outlines key challenges facing African startups: difficulties in finding product-market fit, hiring the right talent, maintaining company culture while expanding into new markets and securing funding.
Despite these challenges, Sithole highlights opportunities for startups to tap into, including the “development of new products and services to meet the needs of their growing customer base. This can lead to increased innovation and competitiveness.”
In terms of specific trends within the African startup ecosystem, Sithole says we can expect to see more mergers and acquisitions (M&As) continue this year, primarily driven by larger companies seeking to acquire earlier-stage companies. “M&As are strengthening the startup ecosystem by offering a guarantee of revenue and funding for founders.” Additionally, he notes the potential of AI applications to address societal challenges and drive economic growth.
As Africa's tech ecosystem evolves, he sees opportunities for cross-regional collaboration through initiatives like cross-border agreements for trade and talent, full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), fast-tracking of regulatory approvals.
Reflecting on lessons from leading African unicorns, he highlights the importance of solving societal problems and embracing failure as part of the startup journey. “Many successful founders are not first-time successes. Founders are encouraged to remain within the ecosystem even after failures to create potential unicorn by leveraging their experience.”
At GITEX Africa, Sithole aims to emphasize the importance of “hands-on support” for early-stage ventures beyond just capital. He also hopes to develop actionable steps to stimulate innovation and funding across Africa, advancing the tech and startup ecosystems.
Financial Inclusion and Economic Empowerment
Recognizing the significance of digital transformation, the South African government has taken proactive steps to promote financial inclusion and economic growth. In 2023, the National Treasury released a policy framework to broaden financial inclusion (https://apo-opa.co/4bff3OC), to achieve 90 percent banked status by 2030. This initiative highlights the government's commitment to leveraging digital technologies to drive socioeconomic development and create opportunities for all South Africans.
While progress has been significant, challenges persist, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to ensure equal access to financial services. As South Africa continues to ride the wave of digital finance, the possibilities are boundless. By embracing innovation and strengthening collaboration, the country is charting a journey toward a brighter and more equitable future for all.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa.
Media Contact:
Tayce Marchesi – PR Executive
Tel.: + 971 58 552 3994
Tayce.Marchesi@dwtc.com
On social media:
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Website: www.GITEXAfrica.com
About KAOUN International:
KAOUN International is the independent events company and wholly owned subsidiary of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) established to organize and manage events internationally. Derived from the Arabic word ‘universe', KAOUN International's mission is to ‘Create Limitless Connections' for the industries and markets in which it operates. Created to leverage the 40-year legacy of DWTC's events management business and drive future MICE sector opportunity in the MENASA region. KAOUN International delivers game-changing live experiences that build robust business connections, create opportunity, and stimulate economic growth, building on DWTC's extensive portfolio of business and consumer events spanning multiple sectors, including technology, food and hospitality, sustainability, broadcast and satellite, automotive, talent development and leisure marine.
Introduction Dust is more than just a nuisance; it can be a serious hazard in many work environments. Controlling it is not only essential for cleanliness but also for health and safety. This article explores effective strategies for dust control and how they can benefit various industries. Why Dust Control Matters Dust accumulation can lead …
Introduction to Home Saunas In recent years, the interest in home wellness solutions has significantly increased, leading many to consider adding a sauna to their homes. Whether it’s the appeal of a steam sauna or the convenience of DIY sauna kits, the benefits are plentiful. Benefits of Owning a Sauna Saunas are not just …
Introduction In today’s digital age, managing documents efficiently is crucial for any business. Electronic filing and document management systems (DMS) offer a way to streamline processes, reduce clutter, and enhance accessibility. Benefits of Electronic Filing Electronic filing systems allow businesses to store, manage, and retrieve documents with ease. This not only saves physical space …
District Development Model Imbizo kicks off in the Northern Cape
Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Minister Thembi Nkadimeng, says the District Development Model (DDM) izimbizo are critical for ensuring that government serves the people and that no one is left behind.
She was speaking at the DDM Imbizo held at the Batlharos Sports Ground in Kuruman in the Northern Cape.
The imbizo is the 13th that has been held by the sixth administration lead by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
READ | President to engage Northern Cape residents on various issues
The izimbizo, which have been held in all provinces, allow members of communities to interact with leaders from national, provincial and local government on service delivery challenges that communities are facing.
“We are here to listen to you as the people who are supposed to receive government services. President Ramaphosa has come with Ministers, provincial leaders as well as councillors so that they can bring answers and solutions to all of the challenges you have.
“The President has come with his Cabinet so that you can talk to them,” she said.
The Minister told the crowd that the upcoming general election – expected to be held on 29 May – does not have any influence on why the DDM is being held.
WATCH |
“We are not here because of elections. We are here because of COGTA that runs the Presidential Imibizo. It is not many Presidents that come in front of the people to answer. It is about delivery in action… Our intention is to leave no one behind,” Nkadimeng said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 12:24
Introduction In the complex and demanding world of industrial fluid management, the choice of pump technology plays a pivotal role in ensuring operational efficiency and reliability. This article delves into the significance and applications of key pump technologies such as submersible drainage pumps, slurry pumps, priming pumps, mining pumps, and centrifugal pumps in various …
Introduction In today’s bustling urban landscapes, the demand for reliable, stylish, and technologically advanced vehicles is more prevalent than ever. The Chery Tiggo series, comprising the Tiggo 4 Pro, Tiggo 7 Pro, and Tiggo 8 Pro, embodies the spirit of modern automotive design and technology, making them ideal contenders in the compact and mid-size …
In our fast-paced world, convenience often trumps sustainability. One glaring example of this is the widespread use of disposable coffee cups. While these cups offer a convenient solution for our on-the-go caffeine fix, their impact on the environment is significant and concerning. In this article, we’ll delve into the environmental issues posed by disposable coffee …
Pan-African legal and business advisory group Centurion Law Group has officially rebranded to CLG (https://CLGGlobal.com), underscoring a firm-wide commitment to innovation and growth. The rebrand aligns closely with the firm's mission to consolidate its position as the leading legal practice and business advisor in an ever-evolving energy environment. With the rebrand, clients can expect expanded service offerings and elevated levels of excellence, as the firm moves to become the go-to legal platform for the African continent.
CLG's rebranding responds to growing client and shareholder demand for leadership in tackling complex legal issues across all energy sectors. As one of the continent's fastest-growing industries, energy is undergoing significant development and rapid change. The rebrand positions CLG to support these developments with a team of internationally-trained lawyers offering a suite of comprehensive services.
The firm's team of experienced legal professionals offers an in-depth understanding of the market and excels at navigating complex operating environments. CLG is the preferred professional services partner in Africa, equipped to offer on-the-ground support across multiple sectors.
CLG's rebranding journey is driven by several key motivations, including strategic differentiation, a more streamlined identity, global appeal and expanded service offerings. The new brand identity reinforces the firm's commitment to excellence, while signaling a fresh perspective and approach to legal services. It also provides a modern corporate identity that resonates with clients and stakeholders across diverse markets and builds broader brand recognition.
As a firm, CLG has a rich history of spearheading transformative oil and gas transactions across Africa, setting it apart as the leading law firm for the oil and gas industry. With extensive experience and deep-rooted technical expertise in the sector, CLG has a proven track record of providing top-tier legal services and strategic advice to clients across the energy spectrum. Its team has successfully guided clients through complex regulatory landscapes, contractual negotiations and large-scale transactions.
The firm's comprehensive understanding of the industry and its nuances ensures it is well-equipped to handle all legal aspects of oil and gas projects. From exploration and production to refining and distribution, CLG offers tailored solutions that address the specific needs and challenges of its clients.
Operating in several markets including South Africa, Nigeria, the Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Mauritius, Ghana, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique and Germany, CLG prides itself on building lasting relationships with clients and delivering exceptional results. The firm's reputation for excellence and commitment to client satisfaction makes it the trusted choice for businesses operating in the energy sector.
CLG recently achieved several significant milestones, including securing a listing on the Open Market of the Düsseldorf Stock Exchange under Calvert International AG (CIAG). Founded in 2007, the firm has quickly established itself as a leading pan-African legal and advisory conglomerate, dedicated to providing innovative and strategic solutions to clients across the continent. With a focus on excellence, integrity and client satisfaction, CLG has played a central role in driving the growth and success of its clients in an ever-evolving business environment.
The firm's positive track record serves as a cornerstone for future success, and the CLG rebrand marks a pivotal moment in its journey, symbolizing a strategic shift towards greater success, resonance and impact within the global legal and business landscape. This transformation is not only cosmetic, but also underscores CLG's commitment to serving as a modern, dynamic and global-minded legal, business and tax partner.
“While we are proud of our accomplishments, our sights are set on the future, driven by an unwavering commitment to adapt, innovate and position our company for continued growth and success in an ever-changing business environment. CLG stands resolute in our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our clients and enhancing the scope and quality of our services,” stated CLG CEO Zion Adeoye.
“The rebranding to CLG signifies a new chapter for our clients as we enhance our focus on delivering exceptional legal, tax and business advisory services. Our clients can expect a more streamlined and impactful experience, backed by our unwavering commitment to their success,” Adeoye added.
Visit CLG's new website at https://CLGGlobal.com.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CLG.
AI is revolutionizing the way the accounting industry works. It is elevating human performance by taking on the burden of repetitive but required tasks, and by accelerating analysis. But accounting is based on trust. So, companies must be totally sure that AI works accurately before they can use it to its full potential. Even the …