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In South Africa, nearly one in nine adults are affected by diabetes impacting around 4.4 million people between the ages of 20 and 79. Globally diabetes is the fourth leading cause of blindness and the most common cause of vision loss among working-age South Africans. According to the Ophthalmological Society of South Africa (OSSA) approximately …
The Western Cape's permanent delegates to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) expressed satisfaction and commended the efficient implementation of social housing projects to residents by the Western Cape Provincial Government's Department of Infrastructure and the City of Cape Town.
The delegation said some of the social housing projects are a great example of effective intergovernmental collaboration and public-private partnerships which provide decent and dignified accommodation.
While briefing the delegation on, the City of Cape Town reported that ten affordable social housing projects, totaling 4 849 residential units, have been completed between 2017 and 2024. According to the City, six more land parcels have been awarded as part of the land release program for affordable mixed social housing, out of which 4 268 housing opportunities are expected to be completed by 2028.
The delegation heard that more land parcels are at planning and release stage and are expected to provide approximately 20 000 housing opportunities in future.
The delegation conducted site visits to three of the recently completed social housing projects on Wednesday. It was impressed by the Conradie Better Living Model Exemplar Project in Pinelands which has 1004 affordable rental units ranging from R740 a month for a bachelor unit. It was built on the land belonging to the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) and has more tenants living in the vast precinct than the total population of Pinelands.
The delegation also commended the Maitland Mews development which boasts 204 social housing units developed to curb the City's dire need for centrally located social housing residences. At a total development cost of R95 953 055, monthly rental ranges from R650 for a bachelor to at least R4 900 for a two-bedroom unit.
Other features include nine business training units which are also used as meeting venues, play areas for children, and 24-hour security with biometrics fingerprint access and CCTV cameras.
The delegates also braved the rain and inclement weather on their third site visit of the day. They inspected the Goodwood Station Social Housing Project which began tenanting its 1055 units in December 2023 and August 2024 respectively. Water and bulk services are fully subsidized, and tenants also benefit from the indigent electricity subsidy.
The delegation and SALGA representatives quizzed the City on what seem like stringent and exclusionary letting procedures, and recommended a more inclusionary approach to benefit more people. The City currently has 410 000 applicants on its waiting list of indigent people needing social housing.
The leader of the delegation, Mr Rikus Badenhorst, said other municipalities could benchmark the City's delivery model in managing strategic intergovernmental cooperation and private-public partnerships that enable development.
Meanwhile the department cautioned that lack of funding, cross-subsidy and political support may hamper the delivery of similar projects that are currently at planning phase. The department indicated that similar projects are currently underway in Oudtshoorn, George, Knysna, Worcester, Stellenbosch and in other areas across the province.
The City recommended exploring alternative funding mechanism for affordable housing beyond government subsidies which may not be sustainable in future. The City also suggested the devolution of the Consolidated Capital Grant funding to municipalities for localized administration.
Mr. Badenhorst said the delegation will consolidate all recommendations and report back to the NCOP at the end of the oversight programme. The delegates will reconvene at the Western Cape Provincial Parliament Chamber this morning to turn their focus towards the province's disaster management systems.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
The NCOP Gauteng delegation conducted a successful oversight visit to unfinished and abandoned human settlements, health, education, and road projects in the West Rand and Sedibeng regions on Wednesday.
The visit is part of the week-long NCOP Provincial Week Programme, held under the theme “Confronting the Challenges Facing the Timely Delivery of Viable Public Infrastructure to Communities.”
The Provincial Week Programme aims to provide permanent delegates to the NCOP and their counterparts from the Gauteng Provincial Legislature with an opportunity to conduct oversight visits to various community development structures, including incomplete road projects, housing projects and other delayed or abandoned public infrastructure projects in the province. These oversight sessions involve officials and managers from affected districts and provincial and national government departments.
Among the abandoned projects visited by the delegation yesterday was the Montrose Mega Project in Randfontein. The project started in 2017 and is expected to yield 13 792 mixed typologies upon completion.
Briefing the delegation on the challenges, interventions and way forward, the provincial Department of Human Settlements said the project had faced various challenges, such as non-performance by the developer, as he failed to resume site in January 2024. The developer also failed to disclose a liquidation order issued by the court against him in 2023 in favour of contractors. The delegation was informed that the developer failed to pay the Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), which he appointed as his service providers. The abandoned project is now facing a serious problem of vandalism of the units.
As part of the interventions, the department reported that it sought a legal opinion on the options available to act against the developer and a notice of termination was issued. The delegation was told that three criminal cases had been opened for the vandalism of the infrastructure, and some of the perpetrators had been brought to justice.
The department further reported that, as part of the way forward, they are appointing a security company to protect the remaining infrastructure and will commence negotiations with the land owner on acquiring the land.
The delegation also visited the Rus-Ter-Vaal Secondary School. The project was initiated in 2016 and set for construction in 2018. A contractor was appointed and initiated the construction process but abandoned the site without completing the project.
The delegation was told that the project remains abandoned as of August 2024. The department is set to appoint a contractor and hand over the site to the contractor by the end of September.
The MEC for Education committed to providing regular feedback to the NCOP on this delayed project and ensured that the contractors' contract would be terminated where there were unjustifiable delays.
The NCOP Gauteng delegation also conducted oversight at Kopanong Hospital in Vereeniging. Construction of the hospital started in 2021, with an original completion date of August 2022. The appointed contractor could not finish the project, and their contract was terminated.
The delegation was very concerned about the state of the Kopanong Hospital, which is in decay. The abandoned, incomplete wards were meant to accommodate emergency patients during COVID-19, but the contractor failed to finish the job.
The delegation also visited the R82 Old Johannesburg Road in Walkerville. The Initial consultant was terminated due to poor performance. A new consulting engineer was appointed on 23 August 2024. The delegation was informed that the project is scheduled to recommence the first week of October 2024. The contractor is mobilising to return to the site at the beginning of September 2024.
Some of the challenges facing the project include the encroachment of 10 households on the site—intervention to relocate the residents is being sought.
The delegation further visited the Bekkerdal Care of the Age Centre, New Simunye High School in Westonaria, and the Lethabong Mega Project in Sebokeng. The delegation applauded the Lethabong Mega Project, as it was the only site progressing well among all the visited projects.
The delegation, led by Ms Jane Mananiso, NCOP Gauteng Provincial Whip, recommended that criminal cases be opened against developers who are at fault for any of the projects' issues.
Highlighting the importance of accountability and transparency, Ms Mananiso said public representatives must ensure that every rand spent on infrastructure development translates into tangible benefits for the people. “The NCOP's oversight provides an invaluable mechanism for ensuring accountability and transparency, and I have no doubt that your engagements with us this week will help strengthen the systems that underpin effective governance,” she said.
The delegation is today, Thursday, 19 September, conducting oversight visits to projects around the Ekurhuleni and Tshwane regions. The projects include:
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
The report details how this debt crisis is jeopardising progress aimed at ending AIDS in Sub-Saharan African countries, which account for a significant majority of people living with HIV globally – 25.9 million people of the nearly 40 million total.
If debt payments and stifled budgets are unaddressed in the next three to five years, countries will be “under-resourced to fund their HIV responses,” according to the UN agency's report.
Further data reveals that “the region's success in having reduced new HIV infections by 56 per cent since 2010 will not be sustained if fiscal space is constrained.”
Paying back sovereign debt now exceeds half of government revenue in Angola, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zambia.
UNAIDS said that even after debt relief measures, Zambia will still be handing over two-thirds of its budget for debt servicing between 2024 and 2026.
UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima said that “public debt needs to be urgently reduced and domestic resource mobilisation strengthened to enable the fiscal space to fully fund the global HIV response and end AIDS.”
Debt servicing
Ms. Byanyima noted that global health security is put at risk when countries are unable to meet healthcare needs due to debt payments.
This has been evident in Western and Central Africa as there has been a noticeable decline in HIV response spending since 2017.
A news release based on the report reveals that Western and Central Africa will need to mobilise $4.18 billion to fully fund the HIV response in 2024. “This will climb to $7.9 billion by 2030 unless efforts are scaled up today to stop new HIV infections.”
It was noted that $20.8 billion was allocated for the HIV response in 2022 in low and middle-income countries through different donations, but it was not enough to effectively finance the HIV response.
To fully respond to HIV needs in 2024, Eastern and Southern Africa needs $12 billion, which will escalate to $17 billion by 2030 unless new HIV infections decline.
Necessary measures
The UNAIDS report says sub-Saharan African countries need to strengthen their tax systems and see an increase in financial donations to garner more domestic resources to effectively respond to their “pandemics.”
UNAIDS chief, Ms. Byanyima said, “World leaders cannot let a resource crunch derail global progress to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.”
Youth activists heading to New York
The UNAIDS chief said that young people are playing an active role in driving the progress made in the HIV response.
UNAIDS has partnered with two social media influencers living with HIV from Kenya and South Africa to attend the Summit of the Future and the UN General Assembly meetings in New York to urge leaders to invest in health systems and services that will support young people living with HIV.
Jerop Limo, the young Kenyan HIV activist, said, “I want leaders to leave New York knowing that we are not beneficiaries, we are equal rights holders.”
“We want meaningful and ethical engagement of adolescents and young people in all spaces of the AIDS response,” she continued.
South African advocate, Ibanomonde Ngema, said the meetings will not be enough to end AIDS – solutions need to be involved.
Young people living with HIV play a critical role in the fight against AIDS in communities.
Include us in the conversation
“The world can only benefit when young people are included in the global HIV response,” Ms. Ngema said. “No conversation about HIV should take place without us, from policy to practice in communities.”
As young people living with HIV also face stigma and discrimination, including from doctors, they will be lobbying world leaders at the General Assembly to “uphold the human rights of young people as key to ending AIDS as a public health threat.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.
The Special Investigating Unit presented its findings to Parliament on Wednesday
The Portfolio Committee on Police has requested the Minister of Police, National Commissioner of Police and the head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation to outline the rationale for appointing Major General Patrick Mbotho as Divisional Commissioner: National Priority Offences in the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation. The committee has learned that the SAPS has made the appointment despite major integrity and reputational concerns.
“The fight against crime requires police officers of high integrity that are beyond reproach,” said Mr Ian Cameron, Chairperson of the committee. “The fact that Major General Mbotho has had various allegations of impropriety against him might have a negative impact on the perception of the SAPS' willingness to fight crime,” Mr Cameron said.
While the committee acknowledged that these allegations had not been proven in any formal or legal process, the mere fact that the allegations of impropriety exist and that no formal investigation was undertaken to disprove the claims will feed the perception that the SAPS are protecting their own. “The trust deficit between the SAPS and the community will continue to widen if officers facing such worrying allegations are promoted. The police management must reconsider the appointment to safeguard the integrity of the service,” Mr Cameron urged.
Some of the allegations against Major General Mbotho is that he posted various explicit and adult content to a Detectives Commander WhatsApp group using his official cell phone. The committee found it concerning that this allegedly happened while Major General Mbotho headed the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit. This unit's primary mandate is the protection of women and children. “That transgression alone should have led to his dismissal from the SAPS, especially because of the unacceptably high gender-based violence in the country. That he was only transferred to North West DPCI was grossly irregular and reeks of SAPS protecting their own,” Mr Cameron said.
There were also allegations that Major General Mbotho had meetings with individuals currently suspected of gang activity and extortion in the Western Cape. The Chairperson said with the country currently experiencing increased cases of extortion, it is unfathomable that an individual with such worrying allegations was promoted. There are also other allegations that Major General Mbotho was involved in interfering in criminal investigations and defeating the ends of justice. “It is on this basis that the appointment seems highly irrational and threatens the reputation and integrity of the SAPS in the eyes of the public,” Mr Cameron said.
As a result, the Chairperson has written a letter to the Minister of Police to, amongst others, clarify who the other applicants for the post were, who the members of the recruitment panel were, the performance of Major General Mbotho in the North West province compared to other provinces, if the allegations against him were considered during the recruitment process, and if the Major General has the requisite security clearance as required by the position. The committee has given the Minister until September 27 to respond.
“What is important to the Portfolio Committee is the appointment of capable, ethical and credible officers that will enhance the fight against crime. Appointments must send a clear message that SAPS is serious about upholding the integrity of the service,” Mr Cameron said.
The committee also requested that the appointment be reviewed and an inquiry be launched.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
In celebration of Heritage Day, Golden Walk Shopping Centre is proud to present a refreshing campaign that embodies the true spirit of South Africa in a unique and meaningful way. This year, we explore a question that resonates with so many of us: “Where do most people find the inspiration and the motivation to rise …
In celebration of Heritage Day, Sammy Marks Square is excited to launch a fresh campaign that captures the essence of South Africa’s vibrant spirit in a unique and inspiring way. This year, we’ve focused on a question that truly resonates with everyone: “Where do most people find the inspiration and motivation to rise above everyday …
In celebration of Heritage Day, The Boulders Shopping Centre is excited to launch a fresh campaign that captures the essence of South Africa’s vibrant spirit in a unique and inspiring way. This year, we’ve focused on a question that truly resonates with everyone: “Where do most people find the inspiration and motivation to rise above …
Basic Education ready for 2024 matric examinations
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) says all systems are in place for it to administer the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations for the Class of 2024.
The department briefed the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education this week on a preliminary report regarding the state of readiness for this year’s Grade 12 final examinations.
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube, Deputy Minister Dr Reginah Mhaule and Director-General Mathanzima Mweli led the departmental delegation to Parliament.
The examinations are set to run from 21 October to 27 November 2024, and marking will commence immediately thereafter.
“There are 55 053 markers appointed, who will be stationed at 188 marking centres. The results will be released to candidates on 16 January 2025. The Minister will announce the results on 15 January 2024,” the department said.
Delivering opening remarks, Gwarube said the DBE had done a lot of work to prepare both the candidates and the system for this year’s examination. She said this was a pivotal moment for the learners, who are in their last weeks in the basic education system.
In terms of system readiness, the Chief Director for National Assessment and Public Examinations, Dr Rufus Poliah, reported that there were 732 448 full-time candidates enrolled for NSC examinations this year, which is 8 400 more than in 2023.
“KwaZulu-Natal has the largest Grade 12 population with 172 213 candidates, while Gauteng contributes the second largest number with 136 620. Eastern Cape has 103 975 and Limpopo has 94 236. Mpumalanga has 68 455 and the Western Cape has registered 64 552 candidates. The North West has 41 480, while the Free State has 37 737 and the Northern Cape has 13 180 registered candidates this year.
“There are 136 195 part-time candidates registered to sit for various subjects this year. The examinations will take place in 6 909 centres across the nine provinces,” the department said.
Poliah said a total of 162 question papers for the 2024 October/November examinations have been approved by Umalusi and are ready for handover to provinces for printing.
The Class of 2024 is the seventh cohort that will sit for South African Sign Language (SASL) Home Language (HL) examinations in November 2024. Twenty- three schools in nine provinces have 210 candidates registered for SASL HL, compared to 134 candidates in 2023.
In terms of learner readiness, the Deputy Director-General for Curriculum, Dr Barney Mthembu, highlighted several factors that need to be taken into account regarding the current cohort of Grade 12 learners.
“Firstly, the Class of 2024 was in Grade R in 2012, the year of implementation of the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) in foundation phase. Secondly, they entered Grade 8 in 2020 at the height of COVID-19, which means their transition from primary to secondary school was seriously disrupted.
“Thirdly, their Grade 9 year (2021), which is crucial for subject selection in Grade 10, was also disrupted due to COVID-19,” Mthembu said.
He said learners experienced social distancing, which limited group work between teachers and group assessment activities. Rotational attendance affected coverage of the curriculum and created content gaps. At the height of COVID-19, teacher absenteeism affected teacher curriculum coverage negatively for this cohort.
In spite of these disruptions, the department said this cohort started to benefit from the Learning Recovery Programme at primary school.
“Strategies and interventions aimed at addressing the academic setbacks of COVID-19 were introduced. In Grade 10 (2022), the system was beginning to recover from the COVID-19 restrictions, which led to a return of the majority of learners to school.
“This saved this cohort from rotational attendance and loss of teaching and learning time. It also helped them to complete the Grade 10 Annual Teaching Plans (ATPs). In Grade 11 (2023) this cohort had an advantage of the removal of social distancing and other related restrictions. This helped it to cover the Grade 11 Annual Teaching Plans,” the department said.
This year, in Grade 12, they are benefiting from a wealth of resources that were developed to assist the classes of 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 with learning and studying. These include previous diagnostic reports, question papers and study material.
Mweli has visited 162 study camps in different parts of the country throughout the year to support the Grade 12 learners.
The department further highlighted that the Class of 2024 has also benefited from being taught by teachers who have improved subject results in 2022 and 2023, making them motivated to improve performance in 2024.
The Class of 2024 reached Grade 12 when schools had mastered the skill of using the diagnostic reports of the previous years for examination preparation. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 09/19/2024 - 10:23
In celebration of Heritage Day, Stoneridge Centre is excited to launch a fresh campaign that captures the essence of South Africa’s vibrant spirit in a unique and inspiring way. This year, we’ve focused on a question that truly resonates with everyone: “Where do most people find the inspiration and motivation to rise above everyday challenges …
Lamola concludes successful working visit to the US
International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, has successfully concluded his productive weeklong working visit to Washington D.C. in the United States of America (USA).
During his visit, he met with important stakeholders, such as the House of Representatives Subcommittee on Africa, the Congressional Black Caucus, the US Chamber of Commerce, and various bipartisan think tanks.
Lamola emphasised the importance of the dynamic and evolving relationship between South Africa and the United States.
“He expressed optimism about the potential for continued frank engagements on geopolitical matters based on mutual respect and identified areas for cooperation.
“Moving forward, efforts to sustain important engagements regularly in a structured system will be explored at a high political level,” a statement from the Department of the International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) read.
READ | Lamola embarks on a working visit to the United States
According to the department, the Minister highlighted the mutually beneficial nature of bilateral trade relations, with an emphasis on how moving forward, these relations can support South Africa’s goals of achieving rapid, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, job creation, poverty alleviation and a just society.
South Africa enjoys strategic relations with the USA and has strong political, economic, and social ties.
According to the department, bilateral cooperation with the United States covers various issues aligned with South Africa’s domestic priorities and the National Development Plan (NDP).
America is also the leading source of foreign direct investment, a market for value-added exports and agri-products, technology transfer, development assistance, investment finance, skills development, and tourism for South Africa.
The department believes that these investments make a significant contribution to supporting government efforts to reduce poverty, unemployment and inequality. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 09/19/2024 - 15:15
In celebration of Heritage Day, Mall Of The South is excited to launch a fresh campaign that captures the essence of South Africa’s vibrant spirit in a unique and inspiring way. This year, we’ve focused on a question that truly resonates with everyone: “Where do most people find the inspiration and motivation to rise above …
Repo rate drops for the first time since 2020
The South African Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has decided to cut the repo rate by 25 basis points, bringing it down to 8%.
The cut – the first one since 2020 – moves the prime lending rate to 11.50%.
The cut was announced by Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago following a meeting of the bank’s MPC.
“In discussing the stance, MPC members considered an unchanged stance, a 25-basis point cut, and a 50-basis point cut. The MPC ultimately reached consensus on 25 basis points, agreeing that a less restrictive stance was consistent with sustainably lower inflation over the medium term.
“The forecast sees rates moving towards neutral next year, stabilising slightly above 7%. As before, the rate path from the Quarterly Projection Model remains a broad policy guide, changing from meeting to meeting. Decisions of the MPC will continue to be data dependent, and sensitive to the balance of risks to the outlook,” Kganyago said on Thursday.
The cut comes on the heels of an announcement by Statistics South Africa that inflation has once again dipped to 4.4% – the lowest it has been since April 2021.
Kganyago said the bank forecasts that this will be sustained.
“Moving to inflation, headline eased to 4.4% in August, a three-year low, and close to the middle of our target range. Our forecast suggests this progress will be sustained, with inflation contained below the 4.5% midpoint of our range through to the end of the forecast horizon, in 2026.
“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 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.
The Governor warned that it is crucial for South Africa to sustain the momentum of reforms, “given a potentially adverse external environment”.
“This entails both structural reforms to support growth capacity, and macroeconomic efforts to rebuild fiscal and monetary buffers.
“The MPC’s main contribution is to deliver low and stable inflation, with well-anchored inflation expectations.
“We also recommend additional measures that would improve economic conditions. These include reaching a prudent public debt level, further repairing and strengthening network industries, lowering administered price inflation, and keeping real wage growth in line with productivity gains,” Kganyago concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 09/19/2024 - 15:30
As the September/October school holidays approach, parents everywhere are gearing up for the ultimate challenge—keeping their kids off screens and fully engaged in fun and learning. Whether your child is a budding athlete, a little adventurer, or a mini artist, we’ve got you covered with activities that promise to make this holiday one for the …
Pravin Gordhan: “a humble servant of the people”
President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday lauded the late former Minister of Public Enterprises Pravin Gordhan as a "humble servant of the people".
The President highlighted Gordhan’s immense contribution to South Africa’s freedom and democracy.
Delivering the eulogy at Gordhan’s Special Official Funeral, held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in eThekwini, the President celebrated Gordhan’s unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the upliftment of the poor.
“Today we bid farewell to a humble servant of the people. For all his achievements, despite his immense contribution to this country, Pravin was at all times a humble human being and activist.”
This as the Gordhan family, leaders from various sectors, and fellow South Africans gathered to honour the life of Gordhan who passed away in the early hours of Friday, 13 September. He passed away at the age of 75, after battling cancer.
READ | Details of Special Official Funeral for Gordhan announced
The late former Minister was also affectionately known as “PG”.
“It was his humility as a person and as a leader that made him great. It was his unwavering belief that a political activist must serve no other cause than the cause of freedom that made PG exceptional.
“It is that which makes great all true servant leaders. Leaders who accept the responsibility to lead with humility, commitment and courage. They are leaders who also submit themselves to being led.
“These are leaders who speak up when they must, but who also listen to the voices of our people attentively. These are Leaders who are magnanimous in victory and gracious in defeat. Such leaders are people who stand up for what is right even at great personal cost to themselves,” President Ramaphosa said.
Gordhan’s political journey began at a young age when he became involved with the Natal Indian Congress and the South African Communist Party. His activism, rooted in civic and student politics, saw him rise to the ranks of leadership in both the African National Congress (ANC) and the South African Communist Party (SACP).
Commitment to justice
The first citizen recalled Gordhan's role in Operation Vula, his subsequent torture and solitary confinement, and his steadfastness in the face of adversity.
The President added that Gordhan's involvement in the United Democratic Front, his leadership during the anti-apartheid struggle, and his critical role in South Africa’s transition to democracy underscored his deep commitment to justice.
“He was one of those rare people who knew the cost of struggle. His activism earned him arrests, beatings and detention. He knew the perils of underground work.
“As an operative of Operation Vula, he was interrogated, tortured and thrown into solitary confinement. Yet, whenever called upon, he stepped forward to serve,” the President said.
Diligence
Gordhan’s impact extended beyond the political arena, most notably during his tenure as Minister of Finance, where he navigated South Africa through challenging economic times.
President Ramaphosa praised Gordhan for his diligent work at the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and his contributions to the careful management of public finances, which laid the foundation for the transformation of South Africa’s society.
In his eulogy, the President also reflected on Gordhan’s courage during the turbulent period of state capture, where the former Minister stood firm against corruption and abuse of power.
“During one of the most painful chapters in our democratic history, as the state was being looted by the powerful and connected, he chose to resist. Using all means at his disposal, he worked to thwart the capture of the state
“Drawing on his substantial moral stature, he refused to be silenced. He was prepared to confront those who had once been his comrades, whom he had once looked up to as his leaders, but who had abandoned the cause of the people,” he said.
The President hailed Gordhan’s resilience despite enduring personal attacks.
“As many others looked away, his revolutionary consciousness demanded no less of him than that he speak out. For him, it was no different to when he joined the struggle against apartheid. It was a choice between what was right and what was wrong. It was a choice between standing with the people or standing against the people. There was never any doubt where Pravin Gordhan would stand,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President described Gordhan as a person of "true mettle", whose revolutionary consciousness never wavered. He emphasised that Gordhan’s legacy continues to inspire those striving for a just, free, and equal South Africa.
Collaborative spirit
President Ramaphosa had the privilege of working alongside Gordhan for many years during the struggle against apartheid, at the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA), the Constitutional Assembly, in the African National Congress and in government.
“I will remember him fondly for his collaborative spirit. I will remember him for his tact, especially when we disagreed. I will remember him standing firm on principle. I will miss his incisive contributions in Cabinet and other meetings. I will miss our many discussions over many hours, and the telephone conversations late into the night.
“I valued his frankness and forthrightness. I respected his opinions. And I appreciate that he always afforded me the same courtesy. He was my comrade and my colleague, but he was also a friend,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 09/19/2024 - 15:38
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr. Ronald Lamola, successfully concluded a productive Working Visit to Washington, D. C. During his visit, he engaged with key stakeholders, including the House of Representatives Subcommittee on Africa, the Congressional Black Caucus, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and various bipartisan think tanks.
Minister Lamola emphasised the importance of the dynamic and evolving relationship between South Africa and the United States. He expressed optimism about the potential for continued frank engagements on geopolitical matters based on mutual respect and identified areas for cooperation. Moving forward, efforts to sustain important engagements regularly in a structured system will be explored at a high political level.
Additionally, Minister Lamola highlighted the mutual beneficial nature of our bilateral trade relations, with emphasis on how moving forward these relations can support South Africa's goals of achieving rapid, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, job creation, poverty alleviation and, ultimately, a just society.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
In celebration of Heritage Day, Benmore Centre is thrilled to present an inspiring campaign that reflects the true spirit of South Africa—resilience, optimism, and joy. This year, we’re exploring a thought-provoking question that resonates with many: “Where do most people find the inspiration and motivation to rise above everyday challenges and discover genuine, lasting happiness?” …
The most fitting tribute to Gordhan is to reflect on our own actions – President Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on leaders and South Africans alike to reflect on the lessons drawn from the life and activism of the late former Cabinet Minister Pravin Gordhan.
The President urged individuals to embody the values of integrity, courage, and service that defined his leadership.
President Ramaphosa was addressing mourners at Gordhan’s special official funeral held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in eThekwini on Thursday.
"There are a great many lessons we can draw from his life and from his political activism. The most fitting tribute we can pay to him is to reflect on our own actions.
“To consider what we can and should each do to serve our country. To reflect on what it means to be an activist. To consider if we are prepared to weather the great storms that so often confront acts of courage and integrity. It is in times of difficulty that moral courage is valued most. It is at times of renewal and rebuilding that activism is most needed,” the President said.
As South Africa continues to recover from its challenges, President Ramaphosa said government will rely on men and women of integrity to help steer the nation toward a new era.
He described Gordhan as one such leader, whose courage and unwavering commitment to the country’s democratic values will continue to inspire future generations.
“As we strive to rebuild our country, as the Government of National Unity, we will rely on men and women of integrity, honour and courage to support us, to hold us to account, and to help shepherd in a new era for South Africa and its people.
“Pravin Gordhan’s spear has fallen. Let us together pick it up,” President Ramaphosa said, invoking a powerful symbol of the nation’s collective responsibility.
He acknowledged the personal sacrifices made by Gordhan’s family throughout his years of public service, expressing the nation's shared sorrow at the loss of a devoted husband, father, and brother.
As the nation bids farewell to one of its most dedicated public servants, President Ramaphosa concluded his tribute with a poignant message, quoting the Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore: "Give me the strength lightly to bear my joys and sorrows. Give me the strength to make my love fruitful in service."
In remembering Gordhan, the President praised his commitment to standing for the poor, his refusal to bow to injustice, and his resilience in the face of personal attacks.
"Where many tried to bring you low with their insults, your feet remained firmly on the high ground. And now you have surrendered your strength to the will of the Creator,” he said.
Gordhan’s legacy, the President stressed, is one of service, integrity, and love for the people of South Africa.
"You were a much admired, much respected, and much loved comrade, colleague, leader, and friend. Rest in peace, good and faithful servant of the people,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 09/19/2024 - 15:40
The search for the country’s hottest screen designs is nearing completion as Nando’s HYD announces its top five finalists for 2024. Kirsty Moolman, Tanisha Neill, Simphiwe Mlambo, Mpumelelo Nyuswa and Walter Train will now participate in an intensive ‘Laboratory of Learning’ before one stand-out candidate is selected to receive ongoing mentorship and business coaching. Facilitated …
Gender equality is contingent on women's economic development
Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Director-General, Advocate Mikateko Maluleke, says gender equality is contingent on women's economic development and financial independence.
“Worldwide, history and research has demonstrated that women’s economic empowerment increases their access to economic resources and opportunities including jobs, financial services, property and other productive assets, skills development and market information,” Maluleke said.
She highlighted that for South Africa, this outlook has translated itself in vast areas of development where women are taking the reins and actively contributing to their country’s development agenda.
“South Africa’s economic empowerment mechanisms for promoting the status of women, fully utilising government resources and effectively mobilising social resources lays an important foundation in the promotion of gender equality and women’s development,” Maluleke said.
The DG was speaking on Thursday at the Women for Social Progression session held during the BRICS Women’s Forum currently underway in St. Petersburg, Russia.
The Eurasian Women’s Forum is an influential international platform that enables women leaders from all continents to engage in dialogue and adopt joint decisions on key issues concerning international cooperation, sustainable economic development, the assimilation of new technologies, a healthy lifestyle, environmental safety, and the promotion of social charitable projects.
Maluleke pointed out that shared commitment across all sectors to support, grow, empower, and recognise women leaders not only promotes fairness, but it also improves the performance of state companies and organisations.
She said empowered, inspired, and developed women are critical to improving any country’s global competitiveness and “this is equally the legacy that will be passed over to future generations”.
“Gender equality and empowered women are catalysts for multiplying development efforts and positively positioning the competitiveness of countries as an attractive investment destination.
“Women are architects of society and are revered for their strength in building the family unit and homes, as well as their contributions to the communities, societies and nations,” Maluleke said. She emphasised the importance of integrating digital technologies into all areas of business, changing how economic and social activities are conducted.
While digital technology can bring tremendous opportunities, Maluleke acknowledged that it can also widen socioeconomic gaps for those who lack internet connectivity, affordable devices, or the skills to benefit from digital services.
She said vulnerable people and groups who do not have training in digital skills are equally more susceptible to online risks including fraud, data disclosure, identify theft and cyberbullying.
Maluleke also noted that while the digitalisation of social protection presents immense opportunities for delivering welfare services more efficiently and effectively, it also raises critical challenges related to data protection, data poverty, and bias and discrimination.
“Protecting sensitive data, ensuring privacy through consent, and minimising surveillance risks are crucial for maintaining trust and upholding individual rights. Addressing the digital divide and providing alternative methods for inclusion will ensure that vulnerable groups are not left behind in the transition to digital systems,” the Director-General said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 09/19/2024 - 14:27
With support from UNAIDS, two young social media influencers living with HIV are on their way to the United Nations General Assembly and the Summit of the Future in New York to urge world leaders to partner with them in the response to HIV. Ibanomonde Ngema from South Africa and Jerop Limo from Kenya will call on leaders to invest in youth-friendly health systems, provide holistic services for young people living with HIV, and to partner with young people and communities, allowing them to lead in the response to HIV.
“Young people's powerful and vibrant activism has driven so much of the progress made in the HIV response,” said Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS. “They know what works for them. It is essential for leaders to listen to them to understand the specific challenges that young people face and how those challenges can be overcome. Leaders can only successfully plan how to end AIDS and sustain the advances made by partnering with young people living with HIV.”
“I am representing not only the voices of 1.5 million Kenyans living with HIV but all people living with HIV,” said Jerop Limo, a young Kenyan HIV activist. “I want leaders to leave New York knowing that we are not beneficiaries, we are equal rights holders. We have a voice, we have skills and expertise and we need an equal playing field where our data is valued, where our input is valued and where our voices are heard. We want meaningful and ethical engagement of adolescents and young people in all spaces of the AIDS response.”
Young people, especially adolescent girls and young women, are disproportionately affected by HIV. Globally, 44% of all new HIV infections were among women and girls (all ages) in 2023 and every week 4000 young women and girls around the world are infected with HIV—3100 are in sub-Saharan Africa. In 2023, some 3.1 million adolescents and young people (15-24 yrs) were living with HIV—1.9 million were adolescent girls and young women.
“Governments meeting here in New York cannot end AIDS alone. They need to involve us to find solutions. We have lived experiences of HIV, from treatment to mental health, because we navigate life with HIV every day. We need to be included in policymaking so that we can take full ownership of ending end AIDS as a public threat,” said Ibanomonde Ngema, a young South African AIDS activist. “The world can only benefit when young people are included in the global HIV response. No conversation about HIV should take place without us, from policy to practice in communities.”
Too often young people report facing stigma and discrimination, including from doctors and healthcare workers, when they access sexual and reproductive health and HIV services. This discourages them from seeking support and crucial information about their health, putting them at risk of HIV infection or of defaulting on treatment for those who are living with HIV.
Involvement of young people in the HIV response
Young people living with HIV play a critical role in the fight against AIDS in communities. They offer support and share important information about HIV that schools or parents might not talk about. They also challenge stigma and discrimination through social media, helping to save lives and encourage young people to stay on treatment.
They drive innovation in communities, for example, a self-funded project by the Youth Empowerment Group uses e-bikes to deliver antiretroviral medicines, food and adherence support to young people who often cannot attend clinics because their schooling hours conflict with clinic opening times in Namibia.
However, their transformational work is being held back because it is not being sufficiently supported. Youth-led HIV responses often operate with little or no financial and political support. At the UNGA the two young people will call on world leaders to fully support and fund their work. They will also urge leaders to uphold the human rights of young people as key to ending AIDS as a public health threat—they will call on them to protect young people's right to healthcare, education, freedom of speech, and to provide social support to young people living with HIV.
“Providing treatment is not enough, young people living with HIV need an education and they need a job to survive,” added Jerop Limo. “We need to be seen as equal contributors and partners, and we need investment to allow us drive change. We are the leaders of the future and we need to be included now to help shape a better future for us all.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS).
As South Africans, we’ve always been known for our tenacity and resilience. We face challenges head-on, just like the flames that ignite our braais. Throw anything at us, and we, the people of Mzansi, will stick it out like nobody’s business. This Heritage Day, Nando’s is honouring their indomitable spirit by gifting customers at selected …
COKE STUDIO™ 2024 (www.CokeStudioAfrica.com) unveiled exciting new additions to this year's lineup, welcoming global music superstars, USHER and Tyla. Marking another milestone for COKE STUDIO™, Coca-Cola's premier global music platform, USHER and Tyla are joining this season alongside several incredible artists including Karol G, NewJeans and Peggy Gou, delivering exclusive musical experiences to fans around the world.
As part of the COKE STUDIO™ programming, fans can look forward to an array of immersive experiences from USHER and Tyla, including exclusive original tracks and thrilling live performances to be announced in the coming weeks. In October, USHER will perform live in Atlanta as part of his upcoming tour, while Tyla will take the stage in Johannesburg, South Africa where lucky fans will get to be some of the first in the world to experience the new tracks performed live for the very first time.
“Being part of this year's COKE STUDIO™ lineup is both an honor and an opportunity to engage with my fans through the power of music. Partnering with Coca-Cola to bring these experiences to life is exciting, and I can't wait for fans to join us in the magic we're crafting together,” said USHER.
“I'm excited to perform in my hometown of Johannesburg as part of the COKE STUDIO™ platform. It's a privilege to bring these vibrant moments to life and share the joy and energy with music lovers across the world,” said Tyla.
USHER and Tyla are the latest artists to curate new music for COKE STUDIO™ 2024 following the successful song drops of Karol G's “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido” (https://apo-opa.co/3Twfqxy), Peggy Gou's “Find The Way” (https://apo-opa.co/3Zwa09F), and NewJeans' “How Sweet” (https://apo-opa.co/3Xzzbp4) videos. Karol G's COKE STUDIO™ session has been celebrated for its remarkable achievements, as it reached the No. 1 global top music video on YouTube with over 225 million views. The song has been on top of the global charts for more than ten weeks, while also reaching the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot Latin Songs chart. You can pre-save Usher's track here (https://apo-opa.co/3Xzo7bs) before it's released across music streaming services.
“We're thrilled to welcome two of our favorite artists, USHER and Tyla, to our incredible 2024 lineup. This year COKE STUDIO™ offers unparalleled access to exclusive content and experiences that can't be found anywhere else. We've partnered with both USHER and Tyla to create something special for their fans, and we're sure that they will love what we have in store for the rest of 2024,” said Josh Burke, global head of music and culture marketing at The Coca-Cola Company.
The COKE STUDIO™ 2024 campaign was developed by Universal Music Group for Brands, Spotify AUX, Blended Strategy Group, Tyne Valley Group and WPP Open X including VML, Ogilvy and EssenceMediacom.
Fans can learn more information and access all content related to COKE STUDIO™ by visiting https://apo-opa.co/3TzOOM1.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coke Studio Africa.
Contact:
Amel Benchikh El Houcine
abenchikh@coca-cola.com
About The Coca-Cola Company:
The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company's purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes Coca-Cola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and AdeS. We're constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people's lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.CoCa-ColaCompany.com and follow us on Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3ZpCjGN), Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3TwfugM) and LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/4evqEua).