Surprise move in litigation over African Penguins
New minister wants to settle case brought by conservation groups
South Africa
United Nation migration agency issues $18.5 million appeal to prepare for mpox ‘surge’
Migrants and other marginalized and highly mobile populations including those uprooted from their homes by natural emergencies and conflict are far more prone to infection because of poor living conditions and the “significant barriers” many often encounter in seeking help, explained the International Organization for Migration.
“The spread of mpox across East, Horn and Southern Africa is a grave concern, especially for the vulnerable migrant, highly mobile populations and displaced communities often overlooked in such crises,” said Amy Pope, IOM Director General. “We must act swiftly to protect those at the highest risk and to mitigate the impact of this outbreak on the region.”
Migration hub
Mpox has affected people in the African region for more than a decade, the UN agency said, noting that the Horn, eastern and southern Africa region hosts 12.2 million international migrants – nearly half of all migrants in Africa.
Highlighting data from the UN World Health Organization (WHO), the IOM noted that by 8 August, of the 12 African countries that reported an outbreak, six were from those regions. As of July, new cases emerged in previously unaffected Kenya, Burundi, Rwanda and Uganda, with cross-border infection cited as a factor in the spread of disease.
The IOM appeal for 13 countries – Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Eswatini, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, South Africa, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe - is intended to support infection-prevention, control and response measures, particularly at border crossings. It will help to fund awareness-raising activities among migrant and host communities, along with internally displaced persons.
“This preparedness and response plan aims to prepare for and respond to the anticipated surge in Mpox cases and mitigate the spread and the likely negative impacts of the virus spreading throughout the region,” the UN agency said.
Disease focus
IOM noted that the region's role as an “origin, destination and transit hub” for migrants could hinder disease prevention, adding that plans were in place to continue building the capacity of national healthcare workers and frontline responders, while also enabling the identification of high-risk areas to ensure effective monitoring of the disease and reduce its spread from country to country.
“Vulnerable populations such as migrants and IDPs impacted by mpox, or at risk of being affected, must receive the necessary healthcare and protection, particularly in regions where access to such services is limited and have a high number of migrants and displaced populations,” IOM said in a statement.
International health threat
The UN agency's announcement comes one week since the UN World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern, following the rapid spread of a new strain of the disease known as clade 1b from eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Clade 1b is mainly transmitted through sexual contact, although the WHO said on Tuesday that more research was needed into other potential modes of infection from the blisters that are associated with the disease, such as contaminated bedding.
Latest WHO data indicates more than 15,000 suspected cases in the DRC including 537 deaths so far. The global total of mpox cases is more than 100,000.
The disease is known to transmit from animals to humans and spread by close contact with infected individuals or animals through respiratory droplets, blood, body fluids, or lesions. Symptoms include fever, rash, headaches, sore throat, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and backache.
Here's our UN News explainer on the key facts you need to know about mpox.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.
KZN twin sisters gearing up to fly SA flag high in Sweden
KZN twin sisters gearing up to fly SA flag high in Sweden
Fifteen-year-old twins from KwaDabeka, outside Pinetown in KwaZulu-Natal, are gearing up to fly the South African flag high in the upcoming Stockholm Junior Water Prize competition, set to take place in Stockholm, Sweden, on Sunday.
The sisters, Sandisiwe and Sanelisiwe Nhlozi, won the South African Youth Water Prize (SAYWP) competition in June this year.
The competition is spearheaded by the Department of Water and Sanitation and challenges secondary and high school learners to identity a water problem in their community and come up with innovative and technology-based solutions to address the challenge.
The duo, who are currently in Grade 10 at Buhlebemfundo Secondary School, will present their aptly named “Drop-Drop” water education and awareness app that is aimed at enhancing education around the importance of prudent water use in communities.
The enthusiastic twin sisters have not only set their eyes on winning during the Stockholm Junior Water Prize competition, but plan to further refine their project and see it through its implementation in South Africa.
“Of course, we want to win, but if it happens that we do not win, we hope to see “Drop-Drop” being developed further and implemented in communities where it is needed the most,” the pair said.
The Nhlozi sisters have high hopes for their lives and expressed that through the comprehensive bursaries awarded by the Department of Water and Sanitation after winning the SAYWP competition.
The learners plan to pursue their studies in Civil Engineering after completing their matric, with the hope of working in the water sector and contributing solutions to address water challenges in the country.
“When we won the SAYWP competition, we were so overwhelmed with joy and gratitude. Although we did not think that we would win, because of the tough competition with our counterparts from other provinces, it was through teamwork and dedication that we were crowned winners,” Sandisiwe said.
The twin sisters and best friends expressed their excitement about travelling together for the first time outside of the country for the opportunity to represent South Africa on a global stage.
“Being provided with this opportunity to represent South Africa is an incredible honour and privilege. We feel proud, excited, and nervous, but we find comfort in each other and in knowing that learners at our school and even those we competed with are supporting us,” Sanelisiwe said.
The department has wished the duo well and said it is committed to working together with the Department of Basic Education to help raise awareness about water education, and to attract and get young minds to develop an interest in the sector.
Stockholm Junior Water Prize is a competition for learners aged between 15 to 20 years who have developed research projects that can help solve major water challenges.
The competition attracts tens of thousands of entries from approximately 35 countries. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 14:12
235 views
Minister of Justice pays tribute to outgoing Chief Justice Zondo
Minister of Justice pays tribute to outgoing Chief Justice Zondo
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, has vowed that the recommendations that Chief Justice Raymond Zondo made following the State Capture Commission will be implemented and justice will be served to the people of South Africa.
The Minister was delivering remarks during a Special Ceremonial Sitting of the Constitutional Court in honour of the outgoing Chief Justice.
Chief Justice Zondo was the chairperson of the commission which exposed corruption, malfeasance and the looting of public funds.
“As we bid farewell to Chief Justice Zondo, we make a solemn commitment that the recommendations from the commission that took so much of his time and public resources will never have been in vain.
“The recommendations of the Zondo Commission will be implemented without fear or favour. Justice will be done even if it means heavens must fall,” the Minister vowed.
Simelane said that the course of South African history was changed forever by the State Capture Commission, the revelations that were made during its life and its aftermath.
“We know what the pre-Zondo Commission… was a chapter that was defined by colleagues who had no accountability and it had impunity. It is a chapter that had no consequences for the looting of state resources. But the second chapter…it is built on the findings and the recommendations from the Zondo Commission.
“This is a chapter we must commit today and beyond, that we must keep open to learn from everyday of what should never be repeated. Most importantly, this is a chapter that should…be a toolkit on how to deal with corruption, malfeasance and related tendencies,” she said.
The Minister thanked the Chief Justice for his unwavering commitment to the judiciary in a career which spanned some 27 years on the bench.
“Chief Justice Zondo, the South African nation owes you a huge debt of gratitude for your unquestionable fidelity to our constitution and our democracy. We applaud you Chief Justice for your selfless dedication to the people of South Africa.
“As you bow out, we wish you the very best and I know you are looking forward to spending quality time with them. Once again, we will never let your sacrifices to have been in vain. When we see you somewhere outside the courtroom, we will point and say, ‘there is a man who did his job well, he served his nation with distinction and he was not vainglorious’,” Simelane concluded.
The tenure of Chief Justice Zondo at the helm of the Constitutional Court comes to an end on August 31st and a historical era will begin in September when Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya becomes the first woman to head up South Africa’s apex court. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 14:55
117 views
Committee Chair Calls for Immediate Resumption of Schooling in Protection-Fee Affected Mthatha Schools
The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Education, Sciences and Creative Industries, Mr Makhi Feni, has called on law enforcement agencies to speedily bring to a complete stop the thugs whose actions have closed schools and threatened educators in the Mthatha (OR Tambo District) area.
The committee condemns in the strongest terms the criminal conduct that has led to the closure of Mthatha schools. Mr Feni said: “The people who have decided that schools are soft targets for these nefarious acts are cowards who do not value education whatsoever. They do not have respect for learning time, educators and learners.”
It has been confirmed that Sinolwazi Senior Secondary School, Bambanani Junior Secondary School, Maholweni Junior Secondary School and Laphumikhwezi Junior Secondary School have been all affected by thugs operating in the area who demand money. Teachers from these schools have been threatened and, in one instance, assaulted, and are now not going to work.
Mr Feni said this unacceptable conduct, which has reportedly led to the closure of many businesses in the area, has now gripped the education sector. “This is one area where law enforcements cannot be sluggish or tardy. Surely these thugs are known people. The police should assist before we have a situation of having police and security permanently stationed at schools; that will not be conducive for learning and we do not wish it to happen,” Mr Feni said.
Mr Feni said no man should be allowed to dare the state as these thugs have done and the state must respond to this challenge. “Soon this will extend to clinics, hospitals and homes if no decisive action is taken,” emphasised Mr Feni.
He called on the Department of Education in the Eastern Cape to assist schools with recovery and catch-up plans for the affected learners, especially matriculants who will soon be writing trial examinations. “Educators ought to be schools teaching and learners ought to be learning too,” added Mr Feni. The committee also noted with appreciation the imbizo that was led by King Buyelekhaya Dalinyebo on Tuesday.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Hlengwa elevates gender equality in aviation
Hlengwa elevates gender equality in aviation
As South Africa commemorates Women’s Month, Deputy Minister of Transport, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, has advocated for gender equality in the aviation sector.
Addressing the National Aviation Gender Summit in Durban, Hlengwa said gender equality in the aviation sector can only be accomplished through strategic planning and a commitment to achieving these objectives.
“It is important that we remain accountable to ensure that we achieve our long-term vision for gender equality in aviation. Empowering women has a significant ripple effect, not only within our organisations, which are key drivers of economic growth and critical components of international trade and tourism, but also at the grassroots level, impacting the very fabric of our society,” the Deputy Minister said on Wednesday.
He said gender parity needs new innovative ways to bring women into formal employment.
“In South Africa, out of the 25 830 licensed personnel at the end of July 2024, only 5 067 are female. This includes pilots, engineers, air traffic officers and cabin crew. Of course, we must celebrate this improvement, [with] almost 20% of women occupying technical roles in the industry but we have a challenge here.
“In a country greatly affected by unemployment and its affects being continuously higher amongst women, especially the youth, the aviation sector is presented with a unique opportunity to empower young women from all walks of life who wish to be a part of this sector.
“We truly can make a difference as decision makers and as citizens in our immediate environments, at home, at work and everyday interactions. South African women are strong, capable and dedicated,” Hlengwa said.
Over 60% of women in Africa are currently working in the informal sector. That's more than half of our continent’s talent pool.
“At the current rate of progress, it will take 102 years to close the gender gap in Sub-Saharan Africa. This is a statistic that should awaken our fires to act I think that we often find acting a mammoth task, but it begins with all of us implementing change in our immediate environments, every day wasted is a day added to 102 years,” he said.
Skills development
The Deputy Minister said he is encouraged by the ongoing bursaries, mentorship and skills development programs that have been initiated by all the aviation entities to encourage a new generation of professionals, especially in previously disadvantaged communities.
“We acknowledge the efforts from entities such as the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), who have dedicated funds and personnel in creating initiatives such as the career awareness programmes, where there has been a concerted effort to drive and promote female participation in this industry.
“Proactive measures are crucial in reshaping a sector that has traditionally been dominated by men. The dedication to creating opportunities and fostering a more inclusive environment is commendable and marks a significant step forward.
“Across the broader transport sector, encompassing taxis, railways, and bus operations - aviation stands out amongst the leading modes of transport in its commitment to gender diversity and inclusion,” the Deputy Minister said.
He said transformation in the aviation sector is crucial not only for industry to grow, but the economy to grow.
“It is crucial that we move from having exemplary laws on paper to realising tangible results on the ground. To this end, we will work tirelessly to bridge the gap between policy and practice, ensuring that our aviation sector not only meets but exceeds expectations in all areas and set mandates. Even on matters of diversity and inclusion, I pledge my support in every way that matters,” the Deputy Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 13:44
111 views
SuperC Energy and SuperSport Schools Team Up to Energise Young Athletes Across South Africa
SuperC Energy Drink, a trusted South African brand, is proud to announce its exciting partnership with SuperSport Schools, South Africa’s leading school sports platform and exclusive channel on DSTV Channel 216. This collaboration aims to fuel the athletic performance of young sportspeople nationwide, while promoting active lifestyle choices through education, community engagement, and product sampling. …
‘Worm mom’ makes waves in farming
‘Worm mom’ makes waves in farming
If you think of worms, you might imagine slimy tiny creatures but for Snenhlanhla Maduna who has been dubbed ‘worm mom’, her face lights up at the sight of these creepy-crawlies.
“They are harmless, the tickling sensation they create when hand-held made me overcome my initial aversion,” Maduna said.
The 21-year-old from Hilton, Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal, is the co-founder of SñP Organic Products, which specialises in vermicomposting, this is a process whereby earthworms convert natural waste into compost.
“We transform organic waste into nutrient-rich worm compost, which enhances soil health and fosters plant growth.”
The idea for SñP Organic Products stemmed from a deep-rooted passion for gardening and sustainable living.
“After the COVID-19 lockdown and the July unrest, we realised the impact of growing our own food. My father, Phumani Zondi and I decided to co-found SñP Organic Products."
After extensive research and training, the father and daughter duo started experimenting with different organic waste materials to turn waste into valuable compost from their backyard,
This is how SñP Organic Products was born.
The entrepreneurs target local gardeners and environmentally conscious consumers who value organic products.
“We currently sell our compost to gardening enthusiasts who appreciate the benefits of nutrient-rich, chemical-free compost.
“We [also] provide worm bait for people who enjoy fishing. Dreaming big, we see ourselves eventually selling to farmers, golf courses and places that use compost to maintain their fields,” Maduna said.
SñP Organic comfrey balm
Apart from producing compost, SñP Organic Products has a comfrey balm product that offers natural therapeutic benefits. The product is made from comfrey plants grown from their home.
Comfrey is renowned for its healing properties, particularly in treating sore muscles, backaches, painful joints, and inflammation.
"Our plantain balm is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it ideal for treating acne, rash, eczema, and irritated skin."
SñP Organic Products currently employs one dedicated worker, who visits twice a week to assist with the operations.
“As we grow, we aim to expand our workforce, particularly targeting young, ambitious individuals aged 18 to 50 who are eager to learn and start their own ventures. Creating job opportunities for these individuals is a core part of our mission."
Maduna said she is hopeful for future collaborations with government that can support the business’s mission.
“Government funding and support would enable us to expand our operations, educate more people, and create job opportunities for disadvantaged communities. Our vision is to establish a large-scale worm farm, producing compost and training individuals in vermiculture and vermicomposting."
Maduna is currently studying towards a Bachelor of Education degree with Stadio Higher Education.
She said the course will equip her with the skills to effectively communicate and teach others about sustainable practices.
“Our journey in vermicomposting and organic product development is a testament to the potential of small efforts making a significant impact. With the right support and education, we aim to transform the agricultural landscape in South Africa, one worm at a time,” she concluded.
Maduna can be reached at kamagubevu@gmail.com.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
100 views
Witnessing the value of democracy
Witnessing the value of democracy
By Khanyisile Rasmeni and Sinovuyo Mfiki
Tshibiso Morao of Makwane village in Qwa Qwa, Free State, has seen the positive impact of democracy in his community.
“We observed changes resulting in our children attending school for free. The children of our community are also provided with breakfast and lunch at school daily," he said.
He added that after three decades of democracy, there was improvement in the delivery of low cost housing, benefiting those who struggled to access dignified housing.
Moroa spoke recently to the Vuk’uzenzele team which was aboard the Democracy Bus.
The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), in partnership with the South African National Roads Agency, recently launched the Democracy Bus, which travels around the country to drum up citizen participation in celebration of the country's 30 years of democracy.
In the Free State, the Democracy Bus visited Namahadi and Makwane villages and brought government services closer to people.
For Ephraim Mojsoane, who was 14 years old in 1994, democracy means being able to have basic human rights.
“Democracy has greatly benefited South Africa, we now have human rights and the Bill of Rights,” he said.
Mojsoane testified that during the 30 years of freedom and democracy, there has been progress in workplaces, business and the economy.
He added that the government still needed to work hard to better the lives of South Africans.
Magauta Mohobeleli, originally from Bloemfontein, but currently residing in Kgotsong, said she currently has land thanks to the principles of democracy.
“Democracy has brought numerous positive changes, we can easily access all government services. Our children have access to scholarships, and efforts are being made to combat gender-based violence,” she said.
Sibongile Makubo from Namahadi village, expressed gratitude for the positive effects of democracy over the past 30 years.
“Democracy has led to significant changes such as improved access to government services without the need for transportation, and the provision of housing and land,” she concluded.
The Democracy Bus travels to different parts of South Africa and promotes dialogues with communities. The initiative is part of the country's milestones of the 30 years of democracy.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 13:21
61 views
Taboola Partners With Aleph Holdings to Accelerate Operations in Africa, Connecting Advertisers and Publishers With Consumers and Readers
Taboola (Nasdaq: TBLA), a global leader in powering recommendations for the open web, today announced an expansion of its operations to serve advertisers and publishers in Africa. Partnering with Aleph Holdings, Taboola’s advanced AI-powered technologies and consumer reach will now be accessible to advertisers and publishers in countries including South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt and …
South African Airways Becomes Airline Partner for the Africa Football Business Summit 2024 in Nairobi
The Football Foundation for Africa (FFA) (https://FootballFoundation.Africa/) is proud to announce South African Airways (SAA) as the (official) airline partner for the Africa Football Business Summit 2024, taking place in Nairobi on 24-25 October 2024.
The summit will bring together key stakeholders, industry leaders, and football enthusiasts from across the globe to explore the intersection of football, business, and social impact.
Through SAA's codeshare agreement with Kenyan Airways, participants in the Business Summit are expected to have access to discounted international, regional and domestic airfares when travelling to and from Nairobi.
SAA Regional Manager, East Africa and Middle East, Dr Austin Nyawara, said, “Sustainable and cost-effective air travel is a crucial ingredient in the growth of the sports economy across Africa. As we bring together stakeholders from all corners of the continent for the Summit in Nairobi, we are thrilled to offer delegates up to a 15 per cent discount on SAA's already competitive prices. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to connecting and uniting Africa—an endeavour that SAA has championed through its tagline, “Connecting Africa One Flight at a Time.”
As the proud flag carrier of South Africa, SAA has just celebrated a significant milestone—90 years of service—solidifying its status as one of the oldest and most resilient airlines in the world.
Football, much like air travel, has the power to unite people and communities across Africa. This partnership with SAA aligns perfectly with the broader FFA agenda of fostering connections and driving socio-economic development through football.
SAA's rich history of investing in sports, including its past sponsorship of South Africa's Springboks and its recent partnership with the South African Football Association as the official carrier of the national football teams, makes it an ideal partner for the Africa Football Business Summit.
“We look forward to working closely with SAA not only during the Summit but also in the future as we strive to create a sustainable and thriving sports economy across Africa,” concluded Brian Wesaala, founder and CEO of The Football Foundation for Africa.
Book your flight to the Africa Football Business Summit here. https://apo-opa.co/3YSWfS1
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Football Foundation for Africa.
Note to Editors:
The Africa Football Business Summit 2024 will be held at the Weston Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya. It will bring together key stakeholders in football, sports business, and social innovation from across Africa and beyond.
For more information, please contact:
Brian Wesaala
Founder & CEO
afbs@footballfoundation.africa
https://AFBS.FootballFoundation.Africa
About South African Airways (SAA):
South African Airways is the national airline of South Africa, with a rich history of 90 years in aviation. SAA is committed to delivering exceptional customer experiences and connecting Africa to the world with safety, reliability, and excellence.
About The Football Foundation for Africa (FFA):
The Football Foundation for Africa is dedicated to unlocking Africa's youth potential through the power of football. Through initiatives like the Africa Football Business Summit, FFA seeks to drive social innovation, economic development, and unity across the continent.
Award-Winning PR Maven Apaphia Lefatle Joins Decode
Strategic reputation management powerhouse has appointed Apaphia Lefatle, an award-winning Public Relations maven, as Senior Account Manager. Apaphia’s extensive experience and deep passion for PR promise to significantly impact her new role, especially as she takes the lead on Decode Communications’ major accounts, such as loveLife and the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. Her expertise spans …
Tailored Support for Women Entrepreneurs Will Raise SA’s Job Creation and Economic Growth Prospects
South African women are exiting their businesses at a higher rate than they are starting and running businesses indicating they need more support in growing start-ups to the established stage of more than 3.5 years. This is a key finding of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) South Africa Report 2023/2024 by Stellenbosch Business School, launched …
SAPS celebrates its women in blue
SAPS celebrates its women in blue
This year, the South African Police Service (SAPS) is observing Women's Month by celebrating its women in blue, who do not only bring inclusivity and empathy to the table, but who also go beyond the call of duty to serve and protect the people of South Africa.
Today, SAPS introduces the nation to Sergeant Silindile Njilo, a crime prevention member attached to the Ntuzuma police station in KwaZulu-Natal.
Njilo and baby “Tholakele” captured the hearts and minds of the nation when a video clip of them trended on social media platforms earlier this year. Loosely translated, the name Tholakele means ‘being found'. The real identity of the toddler is being withheld.
Little did Njilo know how her day shift would unfold when she reported for duty on 05 May 2024 and found an abandoned baby girl at the Client Service Centre (CSC). The baby was brought to the police station during the previous shift by the owner of a local tavern after the biological mother had left the baby at his establishment.
Wasting no time, Njilo went home to get a wash basin and returned back to the police station where she bathed Tholakele, changed her into a new set of clothes and fed her while waiting for social services to arrive.
It was as if the baby instinctively realised that she was safe in the arms of Njilo and a bond immediately formed between them.
Baby Tholakele, a name Njilo gave her, has since been placed at a place of safety. Njilo visits often and says she continues to love and care for Tholakela as if she were one of her own.
Njilo, a devoted wife and mother of two, also says her act of humility that day was merely a reflection of her humble upbringing as she knows how it feels to 'come from nothing'.
Her mother single handedly raised Njilo and her siblings with no steady income. Njilo says she will never forget her late mother's words: "Be a light and take care of those who need help".
She often takes out money from her own pocket to buy basic essentials and food to support poverty-stricken community members.
Joining the Service 14 years ago was a dream come true for Njilo, as she believes there is no greater calling than to be of service to her community.
As a crime prevention member, her duties include dealing with general enquiries and complaints lodged by the public, attend to crime scenes, effecting arrests and detaining suspects as well as carrying out patrol duties.
"I urge our community members to support and stand alongside members of the South African Police Service. Because, together we can achieve more towards a safer country for all," said Njilo.
Nothing short of a heroine, Sergeant Njilo continues to be a shining light in the community she serves. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 10:16
27 views
Enhancing Local Government Service Delivery in the South African Context
By Dr Daniel Govender (Academic Head- School of Law and Administration at Regent Business School) Local government in South Africa suffers from challenges such as bureaucratic inefficiencies, lack of resources, and widespread corruption, which together often hinder local government’s ability to meet the dire needs of the community effectively. Regent Business School’s Academic Head of …
Young Visionary Akhona Ndlovu Leads Durban’s Award-Winning Zai Restaurant to New Heights
Durban, South Africa – At the heart of Durban’s thriving culinary landscape, Zai Restaurant has emerged as a beacon of excellence, cultural richness, and top-tier dining experiences. Spearheading this success is 25-year-old Akhona Yedwana Ndlovu, one of Durban’s youngest and most dynamic Managing Directors. Akhona is not only revolutionizing the hospitality industry but is also …
Dafabet Announced As CSA’s Official Team Associate Sponsor
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) is thrilled to announce Dafabet as the official Team Associate Sponsor for the Proteas Men’s...
Emerging Hip-Hop Artist James Hadi Drops Anticipated Single ‘Ebaleni’ Featuring Mthunzi
Johannesburg – Emerging hip-hop sensation James Hadi releases his highly anticipated single “Ebaleni” featuring SAMA award-winning artist Mthunzi. With a unique sound that blends effortlessly, James Hadi brings a fresh perspective to the game, weaving together stories of deep-kasi that resonate with listeners. Stream “Ebaleni” now: (https://youtu.be/0h3qYidd1P0?si=XLDclZ2i_3N98_rC) At its core, “Ebaleni” is a joyful celebration …
Pensioners Dropped From Community Works Programme
Department of Co-operative Governance wants to end “double-dipping”
Farmers need support after devastating Riverlands flood
A lack of security of tenure and of agricultural support from government has compounded the disaster
Gauteng’s Food Supply Chain: Catering Suppliers and Manufacturers
The Backbone of the Catering Industry In the bustling regions of Johannesburg and Gauteng, the catering industry relies heavily on a network of wholesale suppliers and food manufacturing companies. These suppliers are the unsung heroes, providing the essential ingredients that fuel the culinary creations we enjoy at various events. Catering Wholesale Suppliers: The Cornerstone …
Commvibe Multiplies Footprint with Exclusivity Deals
Commvibe, powered by Mediamark, has signed exclusive partnerships with three of South Africa’s top community radio stations: Zibonele FM and Bok Radio in the Western Cape and Thetha FM in Gauteng. With 73%* of the population tuning into radio weekly from all socio-economic backgrounds, community radio stations play a significant citizenry role in the media …
African Development Bank Group Supports Study Tour to Brazil to Inspire African Cities
From August 5 to August 13, 2024, representatives from seven African cities visited the Brazilian cities of Sao Paulo, Fortaleza and Curitiba, to discover inspiring solutions being implemented by local authorities to promote sustainable urban development.
The Study Tour, organised as part of the African Development Bank's African Cities Program (ACP) (http://apo-opa.co/3Azu2pl), launched in 2020, was financed by the South-to-South Cooperation Trust Fund (SSCTF) in collaboration with the Bank Group's Urban and Municipal Development Fund (UMDF), with the participation of the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group (http://apo-opa.co/4fUnhyo).
The trip was inspired by the idea that peer exchanges between cities in the Global South can enrich the urban planning approaches and strategies of decision-makers in African municipalities.
"Africa's rapid urban transition has many similarities with that experienced by Latin America in the 1950s and 60s,” said Darline Tognia, UMDF Coordinator and leader of the delegation. “By visiting Brazil today, we can see firsthand, and with hindsight, how cities have absorbed this growth; which solutions have worked, and which have not.”
The delegation consisted of 19 high-level municipal staff drawn from planning departments, finance departments, transportation services, and others, working in eight African cities which are already benefiting from the Urban and Municipal Development Fund and C40: Nairobi (Kenya), Beira (Mozambique), Tshwane (South Africa), Lomé (Togo), Dakar (Senegal), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) and Freetown (Sierra Leone).
The visit started in Sao Paulo, the largest city in South America, where innovation and sustainability coexist with complex urban and environmental challenges. At Parque Bristol, a popular neighbourhood, participants visited a publicly run multipurpose facility for children, which benefits from a “School Feeding Program”, a large-scale municipal effort to promote healthy eating, while also supporting urban agriculture.
As part of the tour, the group also met with waste recycling cooperatives, visited an electric bus maintenance center, learnt about public transport by river-boats, and how informal settlements are being upgraded by the municipality trough the provision of basic infrastructure, improved transport integration, social housing programs and environmental protection measures.
In Fortaleza, a coastal city in north-east Brazil, and the second leg of the tour, the delegation saw various initiatives that have significantly improved the cityscape; in sustainable mobility, youth engagement and climate resilience.
The tour came to an end in Curitiba, a city of 2 million inhabitants, renowned for its innovative approach to sustainable development and urban mobility. The delegation learnt about the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system implemented by the city, as well as its slum upgrading, urban planning and solid waste management programs.
The Urban and Municipal Development Fund envisioned the trip as a means of consolidating a network of African cities interested in adopting urban solutions with an inclusive and human-centered approach.
The Brazil tour follows previous ones organized in 2022 to Copenhagen (Denmark) and Malmo (Sweden) (http://apo-opa.co/4fKPMih), to discover the renowned sustainable urban planning strategies of Nordic countries.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
Tributes continue for Prof Muxe Nkondo
Tributes continue for Prof Muxe Nkondo
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Prof Blade Nzimande, has expressed his shock and great sadness at the news of the passing away of Professor Muxe Nkondo.
Nkondo, who passed away at the age of 83 on Sunday, has been described as a friend, colleague, and fellow intellectual in the struggle against apartheid and the development of the democratic order in the post-1994 period.
“Prof Nkondo has a special place in the history of both the struggles leading up to the fall of apartheid and the emergence of a democratic order in the early 1990s.
“I remember him as a radical scholar, organic intellectual, activist, and a leading figure amongst the first generation of Vice-Chancellors who led our higher education system through its difficult first decades of transformation,” the Minister’s statement read.
According to Nzimande, Nkondo placed great importance on the recognition of African liberation as a process of not only overcoming the legacies of political disempowerment but one of cultural, social, economic and intellectual emancipation.
“In other words, for him, attainment of formal, political rights must be matched by transformations in all other aspects of human life.”
The Professor was said to be deeply influenced by radical post-independence and liberation thinkers such as Walter Rodney, Franz Fanon, Amilcar Cabral, CLR James and Steve Biko.
“He framed the importance of cultural and intellectual freedom at the centre of his work – an orientation that perhaps explains his lifelong commitment to higher education and intellectual work which spanned a wide range of fronts, from higher education, arts and culture, public administration, rural development civil society and economic development.”
The late academic occupied senior roles as Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of the North and Vice-Chancellor of Venda University.
He was also a leading figure in the association of historically Black universities and campaigned relentlessly for recognition of their distinctive role and place within the higher education landscape, and redress and equity.
At the University of Venda, according to the department, Nkondo pioneered a vision emphasising the rural development mission of the university, rooted in its social context.
He also promoted a science, technology and innovation agenda of the university that tackled pressing development issues such as water security, food production, sanitation, small business development and cultural production, working closely with local communities.
Indigenous Knowledge Systems
The Professor also served as Chairperson of the technical team and reference group that drafted the Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) National Policy for the Department of Science and Technology (DSI).
“It is hard to pigeon-hole the intellectual contribution of Prof Nkondo as he was truly a polymath, whose contributions spanned a stunning range of areas including science and technology, higher education, arts and culture, public administration, human settlements, tourism, and rural development.”
According to the Minister, he was not only an African intellectual focusing on the local and national questions of development in South Africa but was also, par excellence, a pan-African intellectual who worked actively across the continent to advance a new African agenda for the African Union (AU) and New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD).
He was among 500 African scholars invited by the AU in 2004 to Dakar, Senegal, to speak on the role of intellectuals in Africa’s development.
“The Department of Science and Innovation will surely miss his seminal contributions to our understanding of the role of science and technology in the emancipation of South Africa’s most marginalised communities.”
Nzimande stated that his contributions to IKS continue to resonate in the DSI’s White Paper on Science and Innovation and Decadal Plan.
READ | President Ramaphosa mourns passing of Prof Muxe Nkondo
“I wish to join our President, Cyril Ramaphosa, in expressing my heartfelt condolences to the wife of Professor Nkondo, Professor Olga Nyondo and their children and extended family,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za
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Tue, 08/20/2024 - 10:32
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