South Africa

20 September 2024

Mantashe welcomes decision on SAPREF asset acquisition

Location: News

Mantashe welcomes decision on SAPREF asset acquisition

Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) Minister Gwede Mantashe has welcomed the Competition Commission’s approval for the Central Energy Fund (CEF) to acquire the various assets that comprise the SAPREF refinery.

According to the company’s website, the east coast based refinery is the largest crude oil refiner in the country.

The department said the acquisition is the culmination of the “Sale Purchase Agreement between bp Southern Africa (bpSA) and Shell Downstream South Africa (SDSA) assets located at the SAPREF Precinct” to the CEF.

“The sale includes the SDSA and bpSA interests in the SAPREF land and other associated assets, which includes crude and finished product tanks, process units, pipelines to and from SAPREF to Island View terminal, and the Single Buoy Mooring for crude imports.

“The sale excludes SAPREF (Pty) Ltd, bp’s marketing businesses, the Island View terminal Operations and the lubricants blending and grease manufacturer, Blendcor (Pty) Ltd.

“The acquisition of these assets will form the hallmark of CEF’s investment and growth strategy in the energy value chain geared to lay a solid foundation to address the challenges that lies ahead in the security of South Africa’s energy future,” the department said in a statement on Friday.

The DMPR added that the acquisition reinforces the country’s “concerted efforts aimed at guaranteeing adequate supply of liquid fuels in the midst of premature closures of refineries”.

“[We] have seriously noted with concern the declining local refining capacity which resulted in the country becoming a net importer of refined petroleum products.

“This new emerging trend was not only threatening the country’s economic stability and security of supply of petroleum products but also meant the exportation of jobs that are so needed in the country given the stubbornly high level of unemployment.

“Therefore, the commission’s approval is important because it does not only authenticate the acquisition but reinforce South Africa’s concerted efforts aimed at guaranteeing adequate supply of liquid fuels in the midst of premature closures of refineries.

“The acquisition of SAPREF, and its revitalisation thereof, will ensure that South Africa, through CEF, continues with the exploitation, development, and distribution of petroleum products,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 13:59

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20 September 2024

Eastern Cape Ncop Delegation Calls for Resuscitation of Delayed Infrastructure Development Projects

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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On the last day of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) 2024 Provincial Week Programme, the Eastern Cape's Permanent Delegates to the NCOP expressed their displeasure with the rising number of delayed infrastructure development projects in the province.

The delegation reiterated this displeasure during the last day of its week-long oversight visit to the selected infrastructure projects in the Chris Hani District Municipality as part of the NCOP's Provincial Week Programme. The delayed projects included Fikile Gwadana Road, Louis Rex Primary School and the Komani Economic Industrial Park.

The delegation heard that the newly established Queenstown Economic Industrial Area project started on 14 February 2022 and was expected to be completed on 13 February 2023. However, due to a court action, the project was delayed for eleven months, from August 2022 to July 2023. The new completion date was 30 September 2024, but the project is still far from completion, mainly due to budgetary constraints.

The Louis Rex Primary School in the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality has 33 prefabricated temporary classes. The project, which is at 54% completion, encountered a delay mainly due to poor performance by the first contractor.

The school's principal informed the delegation that the school is overcrowded and has no recreational facilities, school clerk, staff room, or security guards. As a result, the school is vulnerable to all forms of crime emerging in the region, including extortion.

The Komani Industrial Park, situated within the greater Komani urban area, comprises two existing industrial areas of Queendustria and Ezibeleni township and is one of the district's economic hopes.

The delegation heard that the park is faced with problems that include relocation of investors due to, among other things, water shortage, insufficient electricity supply, lack of ICT connectivity, insecurity, and lack of funding for park operations.

The delegation called on the leaders of the district and local municipalities where these projects exist to ensure that all of them are resuscitated and accordingly budgeted for so that they can be completed.

The leader of the delegation, Chief Mwelo Nonkonyana, said, "It is high time that we commit ourselves to salvaging the situation. Let us engage all the roleplayers to ensure that all these projects become alive and the objectives for which they were planned are fulfilled."

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

20 September 2024

Eskom, Sasol sign gas MoU

Location: News

Eskom, Sasol sign gas MoU

Eskom and energy and chemical company, Sasol, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to “collaboratively explore and research potential future liquified natural gas (LNG) requirements”.

This is according to a joint statement released by the two companies, following the signing ceremony of the MoU on Friday.

“The collaboration aims to determine the potential volumes that South Africa requires to establish a viable LNG import market, along with the enabling infrastructure, and will be facilitated by government-to-government relations where necessary.

“This initiative focuses on using gas for power generation to provide essential base load electricity and position gas as a key enabler of re-industrialisation, while also ensuring continued supply to the market by unlocking global LNG resources.

“Furthermore, the collaboration will contribute to enhancing South Africa’s energy mix and enable the country’s energy transition and decarbonisation,” the joint statement read.

The MoU is expected to “explore sourcing gas within South Africa, the Southern African Development Community region, and other parts of the African continent, in addition to evaluating long-term LNG contracting”.

“This will support the gas requirements for Eskom’s planned coal power station repowering and conversion to gas in the long term. The parties will also engage other state entities to enable an LNG value chain in South Africa.

“As part of its revised gas strategy, Sasol is working on enabling the future supply of LNG to South Africa by collaborating with companies such as Eskom, existing and future customers, suppliers, and infrastructure developers.

“The research findings from the first phase of the Sasol-Eskom collaboration will guide the necessary role players and investors required to offer the best prospects for South Africa’s energy market, while outlining the challenges associated with the long-term commitments required for LNG imports,” the statement said.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister of Energy and Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, explained the importance of the collaboration between two of South Africa’s biggest energy related companies.

“We have made it clear that we are serious about LNG solutions for the country, and that our demand for gas across both industrial and energy frontiers will unlock these solutions.

“This collaboration between our two energy champions – one public, one private – will provide a data-driven and commercially sound basis for gas-fed industrialisation and for us to explore the well-worn path to lower carbon energy that the global north has already taken by scaling gas to power.

“Gas has emerged as the second-largest contributor to global electricity production, experiencing rapid growth as many countries shift from coal to gas in their energy mix to enable positive implications for climate change, as gas typically emits less CO2 per unit of energy,” Ramokgopa said.

Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said the two companies can collaborate to work on the transition to lower carbon methods.

“We have a great deal of experience as the two largest users of coal in South Africa and we felt by working together we could accelerate the climate change transition in a responsible way which sets the country up for the best economic, environmental and social outcomes and addresses the imminent gas supply shortfall.

“Eskom is focused on a balanced and diversified energy mix based on existing coal and nuclear and introducing gas for baseload power, as well as renewables, energy storage systems including batteries and pumped hydro, to achieve overall security of supply and to meet and exceed rapidly expanding energy demand,” Marokane said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 14:15

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20 September 2024

Over 293 000 Grade 1 & 8 placement offers issued to parents

Location: News

Over 293 000 Grade 1 & 8 placement offers issued to parents

The Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation, Matome Chiloane, has announced that a total of 293 057 placement offers have been issued as of 07:00 AM on Thursday.

This comes after the start of the 2025 Online Admissions placement period for Grade 1 and Grade 8 learners. Of these, 146 385 offers were made for Grade 1 and 146 672 for Grade 8.

“To date, 148 744 offers have been accepted, while about 105 193 offers are still to be accepted by parents. While placement offers are being sent out in batches, we remind parents that this process will continue throughout the remainder of the year,” the department said.

Parents are urged to log on to the Online Admissions website (www.gdeadmissions.gov.za) within seven days of receiving an offer to either accept the offer as final (which places the learner at the school with no possibility of reversal) or provisionally accept while awaiting other offers.

Accepting an offer keeps the child in the placement process while awaiting further offers. If a new offer is accepted, the previous one will be cancelled. If no further offers are made within seven days, the last accepted offer becomes final.

The department said placement offers will be issued continuously until all learners are placed.

“Parents who do not receive an SMS immediately should not panic, as they can log into the GDE website to check for placement updates.

“If an SMS confirms a child’s placement at a specific school, no further action is required from the parent, as the child is considered placed at that school. All placements are subject to the availability of space and the priority placement criteria,” the department said.

If a school reaches capacity and cannot accommodate a learner, parents may receive a transfer offer for the next closest school with available space. Parents can choose to accept or decline transfer offers.

Parents should also take note that, if an application status is marked as "Application still being processed," it means an offer will be made in due course, as such parents should not panic.

The department said it has also noted some concerns from parents whose application statuses changed from "Documents Verified" to "No Documents Submitted." This change is the result of a careful review process where submitted documents were checked for authenticity, legibility, and completeness.

The department urges parents to remain calm and patient while it continues to process applications and send out placement offers in stern accordance with the following placement criteria:

1. Home address within the school's feeder zone closest to the school.
2. Sibling attendance or previous enrolment at the school.
3. Work address within the school's feeder zone.
4. Home address within a 30km radius of the school.
5. Home address beyond a 30km radius of the school.

Applications flagged as “No Documents Submitted”, will only be considered for placement during late registration period from 11 December 2024.

“Parents who are not satisfied with received offers can submit Objections using an online form within 7 days of the offer. Objections will be reviewed, and outcomes provided within 14 days. If unsatisfied with the objection outcome, parents can submit an Appeal to the MEC within 7 days, which will be resolved within 14-21 days. Appeals are final and binding,” the department said.

If parents need assistance or clarification regarding their application or placement status, they can contact the GDE’s Contact Centre at 0800 000 789 or via WhatsApp at 060 891 0361.

Additionally, parents can visit any of the department’s 15 District Offices for further support, where officials are ready to assist with any queries related to the admissions process.

“We remain committed to placing all learners fairly. We thank parents for their patience and cooperation as we work diligently to secure placements for learners in Gauteng public schools,” MEC Chiloane said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 15:10

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20 September 2024

President Ramaphosa to Participate in the 79th Session of the Un General Assembly

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the South African delegation to the 79th Session of the United Nations General Debate and High-Level Week (UNGA79) in New York from 21-24 September 2024.

This annual gathering of world leaders is the most important event on the UN calendar, with Heads of State and Government and Heads of International Organisations discussing global challenges and how to address these challenges in the best interest of humanity.

This year, the African Group presides over the General Assembly, with Mr Philemon Yang, former Prime Minister of Cameroon, elected as President of the 79th Session.

The theme identified by the President of UNGA79 is, "Unity in diversity, for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for everyone everywhere.”

President Ramaphosa is expected to address the General Assembly on the opening day, Tuesday, 24 September 2024.

Among the issues on which President Ramaphosa will focus on during his engagements in New York include the necessity for the maintenance of international peace and security; the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda; climate change and the upcoming COP29 in Baku; financing for development, and health and pandemic preparedness.

President Ramaphosa will take part in the United Nations Secretary-General's flagship High-Level Summit of the Future (SoTF) on 22 September 2024, which, at its conclusion, is expected to adopt a Pact for the Future (PFTF).

While in New York, President Ramaphosa will also engage business leaders as part of the drive to attract foreign direct investment for South Africa.

Ministers accompanying the President include Mr Ronald Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation; Ms Maropene Ramokgopa, Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation; Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, Minister of Health; Dr Dion George, Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries and Mr Parks Tau, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition.

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

20 September 2024

NSFAS 2025 application cycle opens

Location: News

NSFAS 2025 application cycle opens

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has officially opened the 2025 application process.

Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, launched the opening of the application process during a media briefing held in Pretoria on Friday.

Applications are now open and will close on 15 December 2024.

Nkabane said since its inception, NSFAS has supported more than five million beneficiaries, producing hundreds of thousands of skilled professionals, especially from within the poor and working-class sections of society.

“Those are the motivating forces that must be mobilised to contribute to the ongoing transformation of our country. The social transformation entails changing the material conditions of all South Africans for the better and education plays a vital role in ensuring that this becomes a reality,” Nkabane said.

NSFAS has been an instrumental vehicle in making sure that government produces the necessary labour force for a capable state.

In this year alone the scheme is supporting about 1.2 million students, with the number anticipated to grow in 2025.

“This demonstrates the role that the scheme has played in trying to change the structural colonial apartheid system that we have inherited, whose legacy persists even in the 30 years of democracy. NSFAS is the only tool we have at our disposal for the total liberation of children of historically oppressed people.

“As from this year, we have also decided to introduce measures to support students who are currently not supported by the NSFAS bursary and funding policy. We successfully did this through the implementation of the first phase of the Comprehensive Student Funding Model, which ensures that the missing middle students access financial support from government in a form of a loan to pursue their studies,” Nkabane said.

How to apply for funding

To apply for funding, applicants should visit the NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za or my.nsfas.org.za, using a cellphone, tablet or computer and follow the easy steps.

Create a myNSFAS account, then click on the ‘Apply’ tab and complete the online form, upload the required documents where applicable and then click on ‘Submit’.

Who qualifies for NSFAS funding

To qualify for NSFAS funding, an applicant must meet the following criteria:
• Be a South African citizen or permanent resident who comes from a home with a combined gross household income that does not exceed R350 000 per annum.
• Persons with disabilities qualify if their combined household income does not exceed R600 000 per annum.
• SASSA recipients automatically qualify for funding and need not submit any proof of income.

Loan scheme for the missing middle

The NSFAS Loan Scheme for the missing middle is open to all South African citizens and permanent residents from households with combined incomes of between R350 000 and R600 000 per annum.

For the list of qualifications covered in the NSFAS Loan Scheme for the missing middle, applicants should visit www.nsfas.org.za.

Applicants are reminded to provide the correct Identity Document (ID) numbers, name(s), and surname, as reflected in their South African ID.

NSFAS only funds individuals who are studying or intend to study at a public university or TVET college in South Africa.

Nkabane urged all students who wish to study in any of the public universities and TVET colleges to apply timeously and not to wait until the last day.

“Learners do not have to wait for matric results to apply for NSFAS. Apply now and avoid delays in the processing of your application!” the Minister said.

She said NSFAS will continue to have outreach programme in all provinces, targeting the rural and township communities. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 15:55

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20 September 2024

Prepare for a Safe Holiday on the Roads

Location: MyPR

As the school holidays start this week and Heritage Day is around the corner, many South Africans will use this opportunity for a mini-break of fun road trips and family get-togethers. With more of us hitting the road during this time, Dunlop Tyres SA urges drivers to inspect their vehicles, particularly the condition of their …

20 September 2024

Cabinet urges students to apply for NSFAS bursaries and loans

Location: News

Cabinet urges students to apply for NSFAS bursaries and loans

Cabinet has called on all qualifying students entering and already in the tertiary education sector to apply for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) bursaries and loans, which opened on Friday, 20 September.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme officially opened the 2025 applications process today and is committed to providing bursaries and loans to eligible and deserving students who require financial assistance.

Speaking at a media briefing on Friday, Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said: “to apply, aspiring and returning students should visit my.nsfas.org.za”.

Applications will close on 15 December.

On Monday, Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane also invited all students who are siting for their matric exams this year to take this opportunity and apply for either the NSFAS bursary or loan.

Having received a presentation during the stakeholder consultations, and having noted the comments received from stakeholders, Nkabane said she was confident that the NSFAS is ready to kickstart the 2025 online application process.

“This invitation is also extended to learners from grade 9, 10, and 11, who would like to enter the Technical and Vocational Education and Training sector,” Nkabane said at the time.

The NSFAS bursary is open to all South African citizens and permanent residents with a combined household income of not more than R350 000 per annum.

For persons living with disabilities, the combined household income is capped at R600 000 per annum. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant recipients automatically qualify on financial eligibility.

The NSFAS loan is open to all South African citizens and permanent residents where the combined household income is between R350 001 and R600 000 per annum.

For persons living with disabilities, the combined household income is capped at R600 000 per annum.

– SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 14:35

78 views

20 September 2024

Mastering the Magic of Housekeeping at Southern Sun: The Unsung Heroes of Hospitality

Location: MyPR

At Southern Sun, Housekeeping Week is a time to celebrate the dedication and hard work of our housekeeping teams, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every guest experiences a spotless and welcoming environment. Their attention to detail and unwavering dedication transforms our spaces into pristine havens. Here, we highlight three inspiring leaders who …

20 September 2024

Cabinet notes water supply disruptions in Gauteng

Location: News

Cabinet notes water supply disruptions in Gauteng

Cabinet has, according to Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, noted existing water supply disruptions in Gauteng and in some Free State municipalities that are not related to the Lesotho Highlands tunnel closure.

“We further noted that the DWS [Department of Water and Sanitation] has supported municipalities to engage stakeholders in relation to the closure of the Lesotho Highlands tunnel,” the Minister said.

She was addressing the media on Friday, regarding the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.

“Cabinet further noted that in Gauteng, rapid population growth, lack of infrastructure maintenance, lack of enforcement of by-laws and delays in the implementation of phase 2 of the Lesotho Highlands project have contributed immensely to the current water disruptions.

“However, the completion of phase 2 of the Lesotho Highlands project will bring relief if supplemented by water demand management interventions, use of new water-saving technologies and proper maintenance of infrastructure.”

Cabinet had at its ordinary meeting this week been briefed on the closure of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project’s tunnel for planned maintenance from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025.

The Minister said Cabinet believed the planned maintenance work was crucial to protect the infrastructure for another 20 to 30 years and failure to undertake this work would risk the transfer of water to the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS), which provides the water supplied by Rand Water to its customers and all municipalities in Gauteng.

The Minister said a thorough analysis to assess the risk to the performance of the IVRS, which consists of 14 interconnected dams, have since been undertaken by the DWS.

“The analysis confirmed that the impact of the tunnel closure on the overall IVRS will be minimal as most dams in the IVRS are currently full.”

Meanwhile, she said the Cabinet noted the department had been holding readiness meetings with Free State municipalities which receive water from the Liebenbergsvlei River since 2022.

The purpose of these meetings is to mitigate the risks of service interruptions during tunnel maintenance.

“However, delays by municipalities to upgrade and/or refurbish their infrastructure remains a challenge. Cabinet noted that the DWS will monitor and where necessary, intervene to support these municipalities.”

Water restrictions in Gauteng

Shifting her focus to the implementation of level 1 water restrictions in Gauteng, she explained that this was a result of Rand Water reaching its maximum water output on the IVRS.

“Water demand in Gauteng continues to grow because of population growth, increase in non-revenue water in municipal systems, including illegal and unbilled connections, and lack of maintenance resulting in huge water leaks, which are at 33% average across Gauteng municipalities.”

Currently, Ntshavheni said, the peak demand for water from Rand Water’s municipal customers is close to and occasionally exceeds the supply available from its treatment plants and storage reservoirs.

“To avert greater restrictions Gauteng municipalities must prioritise reducing water leaks in their water distribution systems and enforce water-use restrictions.”

Ntshavheni announced that the DWS, Rand Water and Gauteng municipalities are partnering with the World Bank 2020 Water Resources Group to implement a mass awareness and communications campaign on using water sparingly, in collaboration with civil society and business leaders. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 14:18

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20 September 2024

Cabinet hails progress in fight against crime with Operation Shanela

Location: News

Cabinet hails progress in fight against crime with Operation Shanela

Cabinet has welcomed progress being made in the fight against crime through Operation Shanela, which continues to make its mark in rooting out criminality.

“Between 2 and 8 September 2024, law enforcement agencies arrested 13 691 suspects for serious crimes such as murder, rape, possession of illegal firearms and business robberies,” Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said during a post Cabinet media briefing on Friday.

Since its inception in May 2023, Operation Shanela consists of regular stop and searches, roadblocks, vehicle check points, high visibility patrols, including foot patrols, the tracing of wanted suspects with a focus on murder and rape suspects, and compliance inspections at liquor outlets and second-hand goods dealers.

Through detectives and crime intelligence tracing operations, roadblocks, as well as stop and searches - police have taken a bold and decisive approach in protecting the communities that they serve.

Since its launch, Operation Shanela has resulted in the arrest of 850 375 suspects, and seizure of 824 illegal firearms and over 17 282 rounds of ammunition. In addition, drugs worth over R13 million were seized at the OR Tambo International Airport over the past two months, and copper worth over R20 million was recovered from a scrapyard near Durban, with a suspect arrested.

“Through a coordinated multidisciplinary and intelligence-led operations, law enforcement agencies are focused on dismantling extortion syndicates across the country. In the past two weeks, 14 extortionists were arrested in various provinces,” Ntshavheni said.

Restoring Integrity of Law Enforcement Officers

Through a multidisciplinary collaboration, law enforcement agencies have arrested 14 suspects in Mpumalanga on charges of fraud and corruption for issuing illegal learners’ and driver’s licences. Meanwhile, 11 traffic officers were also arrested for soliciting bribes from motorists along the N1 freeway in Limpopo.

“Three off-duty police officers and a civilian were arrested in Durban, KZN, for soliciting a R100 000 bribe from a businessman in exchange for the release of confiscated goods, and four more police officers handed themselves over to the SAPS on the same case,” the Minister said.

Furthermore, eight suspects were arrested for alleged involvement on tender fraud and corruption amounting to R850 million in the City of Cape Town, Western Cape. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 14:11

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20 September 2024

Homecoming ceremony for deceased liberation struggle heroes

Location: News

Homecoming ceremony for deceased liberation struggle heroes

The South African government will receive the human remains of freedom fighters and anti-Apartheid political leaders who died in Zambia and Zimbabwe in a ceremony expected to be held next week.

The ceremony is expected to take place at the Waterkloof Airforce Base in Pretoria.

While briefing the media on the Cabinet meeting held this week, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the remains are that of Advocate Duma Nokwe, Florence Mophosho and Basil February.
“Cabinet received an update on the preparations to repatriate the mortal remains of South Africa’s freedom fighters who are buried in Zimbabwe and Zambia.

“The repatriation of the remains from Zambia and Zimbabwe forms part of the Resistance and Liberation Heritage Route Project [RLHR]. The RLHR is a national memory project aimed at commemorating, celebrating, educating, promoting, preserving, conserving and providing a durable testament of South African’s road to freedom.

“A Homecoming Ceremony will take place at the Waterkloof Airforce base on 27 September 2024 when the mortal remains arrive in South Africa,” Ntshavheni said on Friday.

Briefing media earlier this month, Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the repatriation is in line with the pronouncement by President Cyril Ramaphosa in the statement of the January 8, 2020, and subsequently State of the Nation Address.

“In that pronouncement, he made a commitment that the repatriation and reburial of liberation stalwarts, namely Dumalisile Nokwe and Florence Maphosho, in both Zambia and Basil February in Zimbabwe, would mark the Road to Freedom and Democracy. The two countries were strategically prioritized for the implementation of the project,” Mangwenya told a media briefing at the time.

READ | Call to visit heritage sites to honour liberation struggle stalwarts

-SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 13:16

83 views

20 September 2024

Liugong Green Alliance Celebrates the Completion of Solar-Powered Water Well at Mabeskraal Stadium Donated to Moses Kotane

Location: MyPR

Location: Mabeskraal Stadium, North West Province, South Africa LiuGong Machinery, a global leader in construction machinery, is proud to announce the successful completion of its latest water well project at Mabeskraal Stadium in the Northwest Province. This initiative, part of the broader LiuGong Green Alliance, is a significant step forward in addressing the water scarcity …

20 September 2024

Financial Services Sector Calling Out for Clear Line of Sight on AI, ESG Regulatory Horizon

Location: Business

Businesses say the lack of clarity around ESG and AI regulation is a key challenge to realising the benefits of technology and innovation; Despite recognising the business opportunity with AI, as firms opt to bring in suppliers rather than recruiting in-house specialists, they may be left without the internal talent - risking falling behind the curve in the future.

New survey data from global law firm, DLA Piper, has shown that the Financial Services (FS) sector is calling out for clearer and proportionate regulations surrounding AI and ESG to help them realise the benefits these trends offer.

In its global report - Financial Futures: Disruption in global financial services (https://apo-opa.co/3zhzr4e), published today, the firm found that eight in ten respondents are optimistic about future industry growth prospects for the financial services industry. UK and US organisations reported the highest confidence (93% and 90% respectively) with Africa remaining more cautious (50%).

Amongst organisation types, the research finds that banks are the most optimistic (88%), with optimism being driven by digitalisation and advancements in technology. Respondents from global FinTechs however, are feeling the least positive (72%).

The high levels of optimism are being attributed to advancements in technology (71%), the launch of new products and services to drive growth (55%) and changing consumer and investor behaviours (38%).

However, clarity and a proportionate approach is key as 58% of respondents cite regulation complexity around technology as a key challenge globally, and nearly three quarters (73%) go on to say that current regulations stifle innovation efforts.

For those looking at other locations for optimal conditions for growth , the US is seen as the most attractive market (35%), followed by the EU (24%). South African and Middle Eastern respondents are the most optimistic for the positive impact AI will bring (72%, and 64% respectively), highlighting an appetite for investment, despite apparent lower levels of confidence in the local market.

AI and Digitalisation will transform the financial services sector, but businesses need a plan
Whilst the majority of respondents (86%) believe that AI will transform the sector, half (53%) see AI as one of their main challenges- even so, only four in ten (both 39%) are committed to hiring experts in the field of AI and imposing governance /oversight structures to maximise the related opportunities; and half of the companies surveyed lack in-house specialists and are opting to work with specialist subcontractors.

Without this internal talent, businesses risk falling behind the curve in the future.

Ethical AI concerns are highly documented, yet only 56% of the organisations surveyed are developing ethical frameworks to guide their efforts. Without an ethical framework in place, businesses put themselves at risk of not meeting stakeholder, customer and board demands around AI deployments. It is vital for businesses to have a clear plan and direction in place before they start their AI journey.

Despite not having frameworks to use, businesses report a clear understanding of the benefits AI can offer, such as managing regulatory compliance (63%); followed by fraud detection and prevention (62%). A fifth (21%) of businesses are worried about compliance issues as they look to manage the cyber security and data protection risks associated with AI.

The importance of ESG cannot be understated
As businesses grapple with changing ESG regulations across multiple jurisdictions, nearly (46%) half of businesses globally have ambitions to position themselves as a leader and innovator on sustainability and ESG.

The appetite to drive ESG agendas forward is clear, but businesses report concerns on achieving their goals - over half of respondents (56%) would like to see more ESG regulation to support them in meeting their objectives, and 43%% want to understand the current regulations better.

Businesses seem clear on the ESG challenges they need to navigate, with half stating that the reputational risk of ESG positioning is their biggest challenge, followed by integration of ESG throughout the business (47%). Businesses also ranked accurate reporting as a challenge which they are struggling to address.

The negative external reputational risk of not complying with and need to comply with regulations are the biggest drivers for firms to engage in ESG activities (70% and 52% respectively). However, pressure from shareholders and senior management ranked lowest at 36% and 34% respectively.

As the sector engages with ESG activities, almost 6 in ten (57%) plan to develop new ESG-focused products and services, and half are developing new technologies, yet staff development and training to optimise ESG efforts remains low on the agenda (17%).

Almost half of the sector has ambitions to position their business as an ESG leader, whilst a third (34%) plan to replicate successful approaches by their peers. Not all organisations are so proactive - A fifth (19%) will wait until stakeholders and customers demand an approach, before making any decision.

Mark Dwyer Global Co-Chair of the firm's Financial Services sector group at DLA Piper commented: "While our survey shows a high level of optimism within the financial services sector, our research reveals a need for FS organisations to go further in planning around resourcing and regulatory horizon scanning in order to navigate the opportunities that AI and other new technologies offer.

"It is clear that ESG factors are driving changes to activity in financial markets; from financing the enormous capital requirements for transition, to ensuring accurate reporting of environmental, social and governance metrics to facilitate choice for investors and supervision and stress-testing by regulators. It is therefore vital that leaders take note of the challenges and opportunities presented by ESG and define a clear plan. Both ESG and innovation will be key to business success long into the future."

Johannes Gouws, Country Managing Partner, DLA Piper South Africa added: "In light of the challenges our report identifies, financial services organisations are placing a higher focus on horizon scanning, as well as mapping out global regulatory implications. Balancing adequate and over-regulation in developing markets is always challenging. However, it is crucial for regulations in African markets to keep pace with international developments in order to limit regulatory arbitrage and protect the sector's integrity. Proportionate regulation in the sector is key, and can be a competitive advantage in attracting business and investment. With DLA Piper's pan-African and global reach, we can help clients to simplify their cross-border challenges whilst supporting their resilience in the face of constantly changing risks."

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of DLA Piper.

Notes to editors:
DLA Piper commissioned Coleman Parkes Research to canvass views of key decision-makers in global financial services organisations across the EMEA and APAC regions and North America. Nearly 800 interviews were conducted online in March and April 2024 with executives in key businesses across banking, funds and fund managers, fintech and financial services market infrastructure firms with revenues from USD1 million.

Contact:
Suraj Mashru
Senior PR Manager (UK & International), DLA Piper
+44 (0) 207 153 2617
Suraj.Mashru@dlapiper.com

About DLA Piper
DLA Piper is a global law firm helping our clients achieve their goals wherever they do business. Our pursuit of innovation has transformed our delivery of legal services (https://apo-opa.co/3MPSGou). With offices in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific (https://apo-opa.co/4dczEU6), we deliver exceptional outcomes on cross-border projects, critical transactions and high-stakes disputes.

Every day we help trailblazing organizations seize business opportunities and successfully manage growth and change at speed. Through our pro bono (https://apo-opa.co/3BkLxde) and sustainability (https://apo-opa.co/4djCiHE) work, we support communities around the world and help create a more just and sustainable future. Visit www.DLAPiper.com to discover more.

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20 September 2024

Tourism development White Paper approved for public comment

Location: News

Tourism development White Paper approved for public comment

The White Paper on the Development and Promotion of Tourism in South Africa has been approved for public comment by Cabinet.

This is according to Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni who addressed the media following the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.

The Minister said the policy aims to increase tourism’s “contribution to the South African economy through increased volume of visitors”.

“In 2023, Cabinet approved the publication of the Green Paper…and the comments from affected parties were incorporated into this draft policy. This White Paper now provides an agreed policy framework and guidelines for tourism development and promotion in South Africa.

“This policy will promote entrepreneurship in the tourism sector and ensure the sector’s enhanced contribution to employment,” she said.

Furthermore, the policy proposals also on “aligning the tourism policy with current government policy frameworks and to enhance the sector’s resilience and ability to respond to crisis”.

Astro-tourism

Ntshavheni told the media briefing that Cabinet had also approved the publication of the National Astro-Tourism Strategy and implementation plan for public comment.

“The strategy aims to position South Africa as a world class astro-tourism destination and this will boost economic development and employment in the tourism sector. South Africa is the first African nation to develop a national astro-tourism strategy and this will boost the country’s tourism diversification,” she said.

The strategy focuses on various pillars including:
•    Infrastructure development
•    Optimising astronomy tourism streams
•    Public/private partnerships
•    Inclusive tourism and transformation.

“South Africa boasts several advantages that make it an ideal astro-tourism destination. This includes the unpolluted night skies and favourable weather conditions.

“The Department of Tourism in collaboration with the Department of Science and Innovation will launch the National Astro-Tourism Strategy at the national Tourism Day celebrations on the 27th of September where the Square Kilometre Array is located,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 12:27

22 views

20 September 2024

Isilumko Staffing Launches Comprehensive Diversity and Inclusion Initiative to Foster Equitable Hiring Practices

Location: MyPR

Isilumko Staffing, a leading recruitment agency in South Africa, has announced the launch of a comprehensive Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) initiative aimed at promoting equitable hiring practices across various industries. This strategic move aligns with the company’s core values of integrity, ownership, and positive contribution while supporting clients in building diverse, high-performing teams. Initiative Overview …

20 September 2024

OneTap Loyalty? Technology Receives Global Investment, Launches New UK Based Company, OneTap Group Ltd.

Location: MyPR

An innovative payments and loyalty solution to expanding to a global market. Industry giants, Brian Dunne, based in the UK, and Debbie Ghillino, based in South Africa were so impressed with the value proposition and the potential of the technology created by Australian based Elevate Loyalty Pty Ltd, they have invested and joined forces to …

20 September 2024

Cabinet welcomes positive economic numbers

Location: News

Cabinet welcomes positive economic numbers

Cabinet has welcomed the positive economic indicators following the slight growth in the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), slowing inflation and the drop in the repo rate.

This is according to Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who briefed the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held this Wednesday.

South Africa’s GDP increased by 0.4% during the second quarter of 2024 following a 0.0% growth in the first quarter. Additionally, inflation dropped to 4.4% in August from 4.6% in July while the repo rate also dropped for the first time since 2020 to reach 8%.

“We are seeing positive economic indicators and therefor Cabinet welcomed the positive economic indicators as per the data released by Statistics South Africa. This increase [of the GDP] was influenced by the improvement in the manufacturing sector of 1.7% growth year on year. The revival of the manufacturing sector is a critical success factor in the re-industrialisation of South Africa.

“There has been a consistent improvement in the CPI since March 2024. We must also extend our appreciation to the cut on the interest rate by 25 basis points…that is [a] welcome[d] relief to all South Africans,” the Minister said at Friday’s briefing.

READ | Government welcomes repo rate cut

State owned companies

Ntshavheni said steady progress in revitalising and improving the performance of State owned companies (SOCs) is welcomed.

She added that this will “positively contribute to South Africa’s industrialisation drive”.
“In this regard, it is worth noting that Denel posted a profit of R390 million before interest and tax for the 2023/24 financial year with irregular expenditure declining by a whopping 98%.

“Prasa [Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa] is making strong headway in getting passenger trains back on track with 31 of the 40 rail corridors now operational.

“Eskom’s recovery plan continues to deliver positive outcomes with load shedding remaining suspended for more than 175 days as of the 18th of September 2024,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 11:51

90 views

20 September 2024

Clarins Is Celebrating the Launch of Double Serum 9 – The Latest Generation of Its Iconic Anti-ageing Double Serum – With a Dynamic Pop-up Shopping Experience at Sandton City’s Central Court

Location: MyPR

The immersive experience, which opened with a glamorous event on 18 September, is a showcase not only for this best-selling product, but for the entire Clarins range, allowing long-time fans and those who have newly discovered the brand to explore its different facets with a host of exciting activations. “Our Double Serum is one of …

20 September 2024

Urgent warning as level 6 snowstorm approaches KZN

Location: News

Urgent warning as level 6 snowstorm approaches KZN

KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has warned residents of severe weather conditions that are expected to affect large parts of the province from Friday until the weekend.

According to the latest warning issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), Level 6 disruptive snow can be expected in parts of the uThukela, Harry Gwala and uMgungundlovu Districts.

Buthelezi warned that these weather conditions pose a danger to life and could lead to temporary road closures due to ice accumulation, causing traffic disruptions on major routes.

Buthelezi urged residents in the areas expected to be affected, to take the necessary precautions, including delaying unnecessary trips, as the risk of entrapment due to icy roads is very high.

A Level 2 disruptive snow warning has also been issued for the parts of Ugu, uThukela, uMgungundlovu, Harry Gwala and Amajuba Districts.

The remaining parts of the province have a Level 2 warning for disruptive rain.

Buthelezi has assured residents that disaster management teams, coordinated by the Provincial Disaster Management Centre, are on the ground and will closely monitor developments.

“These teams are equipped to respond to emergencies and provide assistance where needed. Plans are also in place to clear roads in collaboration with local municipalities and the Department of Transport.

“This coordinated effort aims to ensure that major routes are accessible and that any disruptions are promptly addressed. Residents are encouraged to stay updated through official platforms and trustworthy news sources to receive the latest information and safety advice,” Buthelezi said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 09:29

486 views

20 September 2024

RTMC welcomes jail term of truck driver in fatal N3 crash

Location: News

RTMC welcomes jail term of truck driver in fatal N3 crash

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has welcomed the Pietermaritzburg Magistrate’s Court decision to impose a direct jail term on a reckless truck driver who caused a fatal crash.

The crash claimed the lives of a traffic officer and a tow truck driver on the N3 highway, opposite the Midlands Mall in Pietermaritzburg, last year.

The truck driver, Ndumiso Petros Dzanibe, has been found guilty and sentenced to two terms of 10 years imprisonment each for two counts of culpable homicide.

He was also sentenced to six months for reckless driving, three months for exceeding the speed limit, and another six months for failing to report the crash. The sentence is to run concurrently.

This comes after a fatal crash on the N3 highway when a speeding truck plunged into another heavy vehicle that had overturned on the road in September last year.

“A traffic officer and tow truck driver were killed when Dzanibe crashed into the overturned truck. An ambulance official sustained severe injury, while another traffic official escaped with slight injuries,” the RTMC said, adding that Dzanibe fled the scene and failed to report the crash.

A crash reconstruction expert from the RTMC, Terence Murphy, investigated the collision.

He found that Dzanibe had been driving with an expired professional driving permit and at a speed of 128km/h, which was 48 km/h above the restricted 80 km/h speed limit for the class of vehicle he was driving.

“The investigation further found that he drove his truck knowing that it had defective brakes, failed to heed warning signs put in place to warn about an active crash scene ahead, he was under the influence of alcohol and that he fled the scene after causing the crash,” Murphy said.

This investigation report was submitted to court as evidence, and Dzanibe did not challenge the findings and pleaded guilty.

The RTMC commended Murphy for his excellent investigation and believes that the sentence will serve as a warning to other vehicle drivers, highlighting that reckless and negligent driving is a criminal offence punishable by imprisonment when fatalities are involved.

“While recognising that the sentence will not bring back the colleagues who died on the scene, we sincerely hope that it assists the families to have closure, as the culprit has been punished. The RTMC believes that a much harsher sentence could have been imposed, however, it accepts that justice has been served,” said RTMC CEO, Advocate Makhosini Msibi. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 10:29

25 views

20 September 2024

Minister Macpherson welcomes Castle of Good Hope court order

Location: News

Minister Macpherson welcomes Castle of Good Hope court order

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson, has welcomed a court order which stipulates that those occupying the Castle of Good Hope have to vacate the property by 17 October.

The eviction order was granted to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) by the Western Cape High Court.

The order stipulates that those occupying the Castle of Good Hope have to vacate the property by 17 October 2024, following which an eviction may occur as needed for any remaining unlawful occupants.

The City of Cape Town has a standing offer to unlawful occupants to take up dignified transitional shelter at the city-run Safe Space facilities.

Safe Spaces offer warm beds, ablution facilities, meals, access to medical care, substance abuse treatment, Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) work, personal development planning and more, to help people leave the streets.

“The eviction order serves as a boost for Cape Town’s economy ahead of the busy summer tourism season in the city and reinforces our position that state assets should be looked after and be used for public good.
“We simply cannot allow state assets to be occupied and vandalised, such as the Castle of Good Hope during the COVID-19 pandemic. The occupation and decay of state buildings nationwide create issues for the municipalities by attracting crime and grime which we have also seen at the Castle of Good Hope,” Minister Macpherson said.

He added that the castle is an important part of South Africa’s history, and it is therefore important that it be safeguarded and maintained to ensure that future generations can learn from the past to build a better future.
He added that the castle is also an important tourism attraction in the City of Cape Town and thereby plays an important role in the local economy which helps to create jobs which are sorely needed.

Meanwhile, the Minister will be joining City of Cape Town Executive Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis on Friday afternoon, to tour the Grand Parade next to the Castle of Good Hope, as well as the Hout Bay Harbour.

The Minister will also address the media on efforts by the DPWI to address hijacked and decayed State-owned properties in the city.

The Minister said he is committed to working with all municipalities to turn South Africa into a construction site and use public assets for public good.

“Similarly to the Memorandum of Understanding that I will soon be signing with the Mayor of eThekwini, I look forward to concluding an agreement with the City Of Cape Town, to work closer together with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to address hijacked and decaying state-owned buildings, but also to contribute to economic growth and job creation. Let’s Build South Africa,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 09:44

102 views

20 September 2024

Government welcomes repo rate cut

Location: News

Government welcomes repo rate cut

Government has welcomed the announcement by the South African Reserve Bank to cut the repo rate by 25 basis points to 8%.

The drop means the prime lending rate will also drop to 11.50%.

Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Acting Director-General, Nomonde Mnukwa, said the cut will come as a relief for cash strapped consumers.

“The reduction in the interest rate and the sustained decline in inflation provide a welcome reprieve for our citizens. These combined factors are not only helping to lower the cost of borrowing, but also offer significant relief to households struggling with high costs of living,” she said.

Mnukwa added that government remains focused on stabilising the economy and “supporting household income”.

“It is also inspiring to note that the inflation rate now falls comfortably within the South African Reserve Bank's target range of 3% to 6%, allowing more room for economic planning and investment,” she said.

In his announcement of the repo rate cut on Thursday, SARB Governor Lesetja Kganyago said the bank’s forecasts expect progress in inflation to be sustained.

“In the near term, we continue to see a dip in headline inflation, supported by the stronger exchange rate and lower oil prices. The implied starting point of the rand is R18.04 to the US dollar, an appreciation of nearly 2% relative to our July assumption.

“This contributes to fuel price deflation, which helps keep headline inflation below 4% through the first half of next year. As usual, we will look through this near-term supply shock, focusing on the medium-term outlook,” Kganyago explained. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 09:26

3 views

20 September 2024

An Inside Look at the T20 Challenge Captains Day 2024/25

Location: Sport

JOHANNESBURG: The 2024/25 T20 Challenge is set to kick off on Friday, 27 September, with the defending champions, DP World...