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In today’s fast-paced business world, first impressions are paramount. Whether you’re a fledgling startup or an established enterprise, ensuring that every call is handled with utmost professionalism can set the tone for all future interactions. This is where the virtual receptionist comes into play, offering a transformative approach to customer service. Historically, businesses have …
Track It All, a leading software development company is excited to announce the launch of their highly adaptable system software created to meet the unique needs of your company. With a focus on effortless management, improved productivity, and seamless tracking, Track It All empowers businesses to streamline their operations and optimize efficiency. CEO Jenna Brown …
[Cape Town, 14 August 2023] – Uku Inbound, a leading HubSpot Partner in South Africa, and power2Cloud, a leader in digital transformation from Italy with a robust technology ecosystem, are thrilled to announce their partnership, a significant milestone for both companies. The partnership positions Uku Inbound as a formidable player in the digital transformation landscape, …
Following the success of its 7-year long-standing partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal based non-profit, Thanda, Beiersdorf has further committed a funding donation to address the critical long-term aftershocks of the Covid-19 pandemic. With this commitment, Beiersdorf lives up to its sustainability agenda CARE BEYOND SKIN, which seeks to enhance inclusivity within society and achieve sustainable advancements …
Four keys to ensure that People with Disabilities can flourish in your business: Earlier this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Employment Equity Amendment Act into law. While the proclamation of the implementation date is still pending, the Minister of Employment and Labour can establish equity targets for various economic sectors as well as prescribe …
Johannesburg, South Africa – AV-INNOVATE and ATMS Advisors are excited to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), heralding a new era of cooperation, collaboration, and mutual support in the aviation sector. Signed by Mr. Sibusiso Nkabinde, representing AV-INNOVATE, and Mr. Arthur Bradshaw, on behalf of ATMS Advisors, the MOU formalizes the parties’ …
Minister welcomes end of Cape Town taxi strike
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has expressed her sincere appreciation for the resolution of the recent taxi strike in Cape Town.
In a statement on Friday, the Minister congratulated all parties involved for reconvening and reaching an amicable solution that allows for the resumption of normal taxi operations within the city.
As the Minister responsible for transport, it is her duty to uphold the law and ensure the smooth functioning of public transportation systems.
She has commended the commitment shown by all stakeholders in working towards a resolution that aligns with the legal framework governing the industry.
While the strike has ended, the Minister emphasised that the talks that led to the resolution have set a 14-day turnaround time for further discussions.
The Minister will closely monitor these talks to ensure that the agreed upon solutions are implemented effectively and in a timely manner.
“The Minister and government deeply regret the adverse effects the strike has had on learners, workers and all those affected in Cape Town and its surrounding areas. The disruption caused by the impasse has had a negative impact on the local economy, and the Minister acknowledges the challenges faced by individuals who rely on public transportation for their daily activities.
“Tragically, the strike has also resulted in the loss of life. Minister Chikunga urges law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into these incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice. She extends her heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives during this period of unrest.
“The Minister's primary concern is the safe transportation of commuters and visitors in and around Cape Town,” the Ministry of Transport said in a statement.
She called for a cessation of hostilities among the various stakeholders involved and urged them to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve any outstanding issues.
“In the coming days, Minister Chikunga will convene a media briefing to provide further updates on the situation and measures being taken to prevent future disruptions. The date and time of the briefing will be communicated shortly to ensure that the public and media are adequately informed.
“The Minister remains committed to ensuring a safe and efficient public transportation system for all, and she encourages all parties to work together to achieve this goal,” the Ministry of Transport said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 08/11/2023 - 08:53
Introduction In a rapidly evolving business landscape, where adaptability and efficiency are paramount, it comes as no surprise that businesses are finding innovative ways to optimise their operations. One such solution gaining increasing popularity is self-storage. With a notable uptick in businesses utilising self-storage facilities, it’s clear that there’s more to it than meets the …
Introduction: In today’s digital age, the realm of property management has undergone a remarkable transformation, thanks to the advent of rental property management software. This innovative technology has revolutionised the way landlords and property managers oversee their rental properties, enhancing efficiency, tenant satisfaction, and overall profitability. As the demand for streamlined property management practices continues …
Introduction Carbon offsetting has emerged as a vital strategy in the global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. By definition, carbon offsetting involves compensating for carbon dioxide emissions produced by human activities by funding projects that reduce or remove an equivalent amount of greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. This article delves …
Introduction Cold storages or refrigerated warehouses are essential facilities that play a crucial role in preserving perishable goods by maintaining specific temperature and humidity levels. From the food industry to pharmaceuticals, these specialised storage solutions are vital in ensuring product quality, safety, and longevity. This article provides an in-depth exploration of cold storages, covering their …
Introduction Recycling is more than just a trendy catchphrase; it’s a pivotal component of sustainable waste management that plays a crucial role in safeguarding our environment. In a world grappling with mounting waste and dwindling resources, the significance of recycling cannot be overstated. This article delves into the multifaceted importance of recycling, exploring its far-reaching …
All systems go for Eastern Cape Presidential Imbizo
It is all systems go for the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo, which is set to be held in Instika Yethu Local Municipality in the Chris Hani District in the Eastern Cape on Friday.
This is according to Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) Minister Thembi Nkadimeng, who was briefing media ahead of the imbizo.
“All the Ministers will be here. They will be able to account on issues that are raised on human settlements, water and sanitation, health, education, societal ills and crime.
“We are confident that the ninth imbizo will yield the positive results that we have seen in the last eight izimbizo. The main objective is to ensure that our communities are tomorrow afforded the opportunity to speak to the President.
“In a nutshell, tomorrow we will strengthen a partnership with citizens in order to deal with issues affecting their daily lives, as imbizo is a tool of development communication to bridge the information gap and address service delivery backlogs in rural areas,” Nkadimeng said.
Honing in on the challenges the Eastern Cape is facing, the Minister said government is already focused on implementing and finding solutions to the water challenges in the province.
“We are looking strongly into the improvement of our disaster management assessment teams at COGTA and also in the province because we know now that KZN and Eastern Cape are more disaster prone in terms of floods… and some areas like Gqeberha are disaster prone in terms of drought.
“[There is] a water and waste water treatment project… that services both the Amathole and Chris Hani [Districts]. The project is currently running and servicing two districts. I would want… the Eastern Cape government, COGTA and the Department of Water and Sanitation to do a replica of such projects in all the areas in the Eastern Cape that have a problem of water provision and sanitation,” she said.
Izimbizo present an opportunity for South Africans from all corners of the country to voice out the challenges they have directly to the President and Cabinet, with a view to tackle them head on.
Thus far, the President has visited all provinces, with the Eastern Cape imbizo expected to be the last in this round.
“These series of interactions and engagements brought communities closer to the President and the entire leadership across the three spheres, and also ensured that their issues are made known.
“As reflected earlier, the successful institutionalisation of the DDM compels us to collaborate with key strategic stakeholders, including traditional and Khoi-San leaders, as well as business and civil society at large in planning, budgeting and implementation, as well as monitoring and evaluation.
“The DDM Presidential Izimbizo are a practical expression of community centred development that is rooted on active public participation and accountability. President is committed to continuing to build an ethical, capable and developmental State that delivers on its mandate and is corruption free at every sphere,” Nkadimeng said.
She called on citizens in the Eastern Cape to attend tomorrow’s imbizo and have their voices heard.
“We call on all communities of the Chris Hani District to come and interact directly with President Ramaphosa, who will be accompanied by public representatives from national, provincial and local government in keeping with the principles of the DDM.
“Transport and related logistical arrangements have been finalised to ferry communities from various areas to ensure that no one is left behind in the transformation journey of our country,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 08/10/2023 - 10:44
Introduction Centrifugal pumps are ubiquitous in various industries, playing a vital role in applications ranging from water supply to industrial processes. These pumps operate on the principle of centrifugal force, converting rotational energy into hydraulic energy to move fluids. This article provides an in-depth exploration of centrifugal pumps, covering their working principles, types, selection criteria, …
SA universities at risk of losing 10% of academics as they near retirement
Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, has cast the spotlight on investing in young scholars, as a number of academics in public universities are nearing retirement.
Citing the 2023 Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Indicators Report, Nzimande noted that the proportion of staff over the age of 60 increased from 7.3% in 2011 to 10.4% in 2020.
“This trend implies that public universities will lose about 10% of permanent staff with doctoral qualifications due to retirement within the next five years,” he said on Thursday.
The report found that the percentage of staff aged 20 to 29 declined from 7.9% in 2011 to 5.8% in 2020.
“Although there is an increase in the proportion of staff aged 30 to 39, this increase is lower than that of staff aged over 60. Therefore, there is a need to intensify support to young academic staff through instruments such as the New Generation of Academics Programme,” Nzimande said.
He was speaking at the launch of the annual STI Report in Pretoria.
Commissioned by the National Advisory Council on Innovation (NACI), the report examines investment in research, development and innovation, STI human resources, innovation in manufacturing, digital competitiveness, and the distribution of research and development (R&D) in provinces.
NACI is a leading advisory body to government on science, technology and innovation, and provides evidence-based advice to the Minister.
Because of the department’s various programmes aimed at developing future generations of academics and building staff capacity, Nzimande said the gender gap among academic employees is gradually closing.
“The proportions of male and female researchers are approaching parity,” the Minister said.
However, he noted that the proportion of staff in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields has remained consistent over time.
“This finding is, on reflection, not surprising.
“South African academics, once appointed on a permanent basis, cannot easily be replaced. Given that the typical academic career is around 40 years, universities have often been compared to large tankers, which change course slowly, and with difficulty.”
For the percentage of staff in the STEM fields to increase in relation to non-STEM employees, the Minister believes it would require many universities to change their organisational design, creating more medical schools, engineering faculties, and larger science faculties.
He told delegates that the establishment of the new University of Science and Technology in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, is an example of the type of intervention that is required.
“The goal of increasing the numbers of graduates in science, engineering and technology (SET) has been stated and repeated in multiple national policy documents since 1994.
“Despite various initiatives over the years to increase the output of SET graduates, the percentage of SET graduates, as a proportion of all graduates, has remained unchanged over the past 12 years.”
On a positive note, indicators show some growth in black doctoral graduates in STEM fields, constituting an increase of about one-third of all doctoral graduates in 2010 to 44% in 2020.
Nzimande said the university would play a leading role in enhancing the growth of critical skills in the STEM fields needed to create jobs, boost the economy, and improve the lives of citizens.
“One manifestation of the multiple crises of social reproduction is that of gender-based violence and the subordinate position of women in society generally.
“The interrelated crises of unemployment, poverty, inequality, and social reproduction also manifest in high incidents of criminality and different forms of violence afflicting many of our communities.”
South African scientists, Nzimande said, have increased their research collaborations with other countries.
He noted that about 20% of the country’s population was counted as “extremely poor” in 2021.
Nzimande is of the view that the STI, with the country’s policy agenda, will require developing solutions to these socio-economic challenges.
“I can assure you today that through our new ten-year plan for STI, we will respond to these challenges.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/10/2023 - 12:30
Introduction The bathroom is more than just a functional space; it’s a place of comfort, relaxation, and personal care. Equipping it with the right accessories not only enhances its functionality but also adds to its aesthetic appeal. From essential items like soap dispensers and towel racks to decorative touches like artwork and plants, bathroom accessories …
Introduction Hair growth is a concern that resonates with many individuals, both men and women. Whether it’s thinning hair, baldness, or simply the desire for a fuller mane, the quest for effective hair growth solutions is a common pursuit. In South Africa, the market is flooded with various products claiming to promote hair growth. This …
Introduction Logistics is a term that encompasses the complex process of planning, implementing, and controlling the efficient flow and storage of goods, services, and related information from the point of origin to the point of consumption. It plays a vital role in supply chain management, ensuring that products reach consumers in a timely and cost-effective …
NOVACOM Summits (https://NOVACOMSummits.com) is proud to announce its first-ever African edition of the Digital Transformation Strategy Summit, an exclusive networking and business opportunity for Africa's telecommunications leaders. This prestigious event is set to take place at the esteemed Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa in Cape Town, South Africa, from 5th to 7th September.
The summit intends to foster strategic relationships among executive decision-makers from leading African telecommunications companies and solution providers. This event will be held in a five-star, world-class setting in the Cape Winelands.
The digital transformation journey in Africa has gained immense momentum and presents a remarkable setting to connect people, representing a US$100 billion opportunity for the continent. NOVACOM Summits, with its extensive experience and customer base in the industry, has recognised the potential and value in this transformation and has taken the initiative to create a platform for industry leaders to connect, collaborate, and drive this crucial change.
We are delighted to announce Juliet Ehimuan as the Summit's keynote speaker. Renowned for her impactful contributions during her 12-year tenure as the Director of Google West Africa, Juliet played a pivotal role in introducing Google products, such as Google Maps and YouTube, to the region, revolutionising digital access. Additionally, she was instrumental in the success of the Equiano subsea fibre capacity cable project along the West Coast of Africa, a landmark digital infrastructure endeavour.
With her extensive experience and influence in the African telecom landscape, Juliet is now actively involved in guiding enterprises and telcos on their digital transformation journeys, perfectly aligning with NOVACOM's vision and purpose.
South African born and raised, Founder of NOVACOM Summits, Ryan Anderson says: "We are thrilled to host the inaugural African edition of the Digital Transformation Strategy Summit, bringing together the brightest minds and visionaries in the telecom industry. This gathering's core ambition is to facilitate digital transformation in Africa through the unique opportunity to connect the continent's leading telcos with innovative solutions providers, so we can connect the next 1 billion people. We are honoured to have Juliet Ehimuan as our keynote speaker, who embodies the spirit of innovation and progress that drives our industry forward.”
NOVACOM Summits will host a range of activities during the event, including pre-qualified one-on-one business meetings, in-person networking opportunities, and peer-led round table discussions. Thought-provoking workshops covering a variety of topics, from Building resilience during a power crisis and to how to monetise 5G, to raising cell towers in space, will enrich the debate around the continent's most ambitious industry projects. Our goal is to foster meaningful connections and collaborations among attendees while connecting the course for the telecom industry's future in Africa.
To request an invite to join us at the Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa in Cape Town for a transformative experience that will shape the future of connection in Africa, please email invite@novacomsummits.com.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of NOVACOM Summits.
For media inquiries please contact:
Cheryl Naidu
Cheryl.naidu@apo-opa.com
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About NOVA SUMMITS Limited:
NOVA SUMMITS LIMITED is the organiser of the NOVACOM Africa - Digital Transformation Strategy Summit series. These exclusive invite-only telecom specific events for Sub-Saharan industry leaders bring together executive level decision makers, business leaders and policy makers with industry solution providers in first class luxury settings. Our belief is that connection is paramount to the digital transformation journey, and these summits provide a collaborative platform to accelerate this process. For more information on NOVA SUMMITS Limited and the FUTURE OF CONNECTION visit: https://NOVACOMSummits.com
Johannesburg 10th August – Inspired Schools South Africa, a leading educational institution committed to providing uninterrupted learning experiences, is excited to announce its collaboration with a highly reputable and well-known engineering company for a major solar energy project. This initiative aims to mitigate the effects of load shedding and drive the adoption of renewable energy, …
Government launches loan to invest in solar equipment
The National Treasury has launched the Energy Bounce Back Loan Guarantee Scheme (EBB) - an initiative aimed at alleviating the impact of continuing difficulties resulting from unreliable power supply for small businesses and households.
This follows President Cyril Ramaphosa’s commitment in his 2023 State of the Nation Address to adjust the bounce-back loan scheme (BBS) to enable small businesses to invest in solar equipment. Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has provided detail on the adjustment of the Bounce-Back Loan Scheme.
“The EBB aims to generate 1000MW in additional generation capacity as well as facilitate resilience to loadshedding for micro and informal businesses. Resilience measures include power storage assets without generating capacity, like batteries and inverters. The EBB is a complementary intervention to the tax measures announced in the 2023 Budget Speech. Applicants may therefore apply for both tax and EBB measures,” the National Treasury said on Tuesday.
Pricing of the loans will be capped at the repo rate (at the commencement of the loan) plus a maximum of 6%.
Households and Small and Medium Enterprises (SME’s) will have the option of approaching any participating bank. Participating banks, Development Finance Institutions and non-bank SME finance providers will compete subject to the product terms, conditions, and pricing cap. The EBB will be available until 30 August 2024.
To facilitate investments, government will, through a government guarantee administered by the South African Reserve Bank, assume the initial losses (20%) with finance providers assuming the risk for remaining losses for SME’s and households’ rooftop photovoltaic solar investments (rooftop solar). The EBB will operate through three mechanisms.
The loan guarantee for rooftop solar for SMEs and households’ investment facilitates loans to SMEs and households for investments related to rooftop solar generated energy.
This investment includes solar panels, batteries, inverters, and other installation related costs.
Loan guarantee for rooftop solar for Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) facilitates loans to ESCOs who provide leasing, instalment sale, and power purchase contracts to SMEs and households.
“This mechanism will allow businesses and households to switch to ESCO service providers for more reliable and cleaner energy without the need for loans to finance the full upfront costs of rooftop solar equipment themselves.
Support from the EBB, which will be provided to the ESCOs to enable them to scale up and expand leasing services to households and small businesses, will require ESCOs to assess the individual need of households or businesses, the implementation of a suitable solution, and the conclusion of a leasing, instalment sale, and power purchase contract between the ESCO and applicant,” National Treasury said.
Working capital loans for businesses in rooftop solar supply chain will facilitate working capital loans for those businesses that supply rooftop solar to meet increased demand.
“This mechanism will increase the supply of rooftop solar solutions allowing businesses to source rooftop solar equipment with minimum delays.
“An additional mechanism will be concluded with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to facilitate new ESCO entrants, as well as scale up existing ESCO’s through a mezzanine finance instrument.
“The IDC and National Treasury will provide details of this instrument once concluded. Participation in the EBB will be facilitated through commercial banks on an opt-in basis. Non-bank finance providers, including wholesale retailers who provide lending products to SMEs for EBB eligible related loans, can access the scheme through participating commercial banks,” National Treasury said.
Participation through commercial banks will be subject to basic requirements, such as tax compliance and adherence to other legal and regulatory requirements.
Any business borrowing under the EBB will be expected to meet the participating bank’s specific requirements, be registered with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission or be registered for Value Added Tax in terms of the Value Added Tax Act, 89 of 1991 with the South African Revenue Service.
Eligible businesses must have a maximum turnover of R300 million. DFI’s and non-bank lenders, which include wholesale retailers offering credit products servicing informal traders, can also access the scheme through a commercial bank up to a maximum of R300 million per entity.
The maximum amount a business can borrow is R10 million. Businesses can also borrow a maximum of R30 000 through the scheme, for resilience measures.
This is to enable access for micro, informal businesses that may require portable batteries or similar equipment to these assets.
For households, a maximum loan amount, for the purchasing of rooftop solar, will be R300 000 per household.
For the leasing mechanism, prospective customers would also need to comply with the requirements set out by participating banks and the ESCO providing the leasing service.
Businesses in the rooftop solar supply chain, those importing batteries, investors and panels will be able to borrow up to R100 million for working capital to ensure that wait times are reduced. Installers can borrow a maximum of R100 million. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 08/10/2023 - 09:51
When it comes to creating the perfect ambiance in your living spaces, lighting plays a crucial role. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your home interiors or add a touch of charm to your outdoor areas, the right lighting solutions can make all the difference. Let’s explore the world of indoor and outdoor lighting, including …
Residential Elegance and Efficiency Discover the magic of automated light and shading control systems that seamlessly enhance your lifestyle and bring comfort and convenience to your home. Whether it’s your home theatre, home office, patio, kitchen, family room, or your entire home, these systems offer customizable solutions to cater to your needs. These smart …
Introduction: A dazzling smile is not only a reflection of confidence but also a testament to excellent oral health. Our esteemed dental company is dedicated to delivering top-notch dental care, offering an array of services tailored to meet every patient’s unique needs. From professional teeth cleaning and teeth straightening to teeth whitening, restorative treatments, and …