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Lamola to use economic diplomacy to tackle poverty and unemployment

Location: News

Lamola to use economic diplomacy to tackle poverty and unemployment

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, has pledged that his department will use economic diplomacy to tackle the underlying challenges of poverty, inequality, and unemployment in South Africa.

“I look forward to working with all of you in the seventh administration to make international relations more accessible to every South African. International relations is not abstract, it affects us in our everyday lives,” he said on Monday. 

Lamola was speaking during a media briefing where he was updating the public on his programme and topical issues. 

He also emphasised the consistent goal of achieving a more just and equitable African continent and world. 
“DIRCO’s [Department of International Relations and Cooperation] work is crucial in realising this grand vision every day. We have reassured everyone that there will be continuity in foreign policy, aligned with the Government of National Unity's (GNU) vision.” 

He told journalists that parties in the GNU have agreed to work together to address the nation’s most pressing challenges. 

“President Cyril Ramaphosa indicated in his inauguration speech that the parties have committed to pursuing a foreign policy based on human rights, solidarity, and peace. 

“They will also promote multilateralism for a fairer, more equal, just, and compassionate world.”

In addition, he said the GNU was committed to the well-being and professional growth of the team, encouraging them to take advantage of learning and development opportunities provided by the department. 
 
Other issues

On Israel, he said South Africa “strongly” condemns the attack on a school turned shelter for displaced Palestinians in Gaza that has killed more than 100 people, including women and children.

This is after the Israeli military claimed its air force on Saturday struck a “command and control centre” that “served as a hideout for Hamas terrorists and commanders” at Al-Tabaeen school. 

However, the department said they had not provided evidence to qualify the harming of defenceless civilians in its dangerous escalation.

“South Africa is gravely concerned at the continuous targeting of schools, hospitals, medical infrastructure, and holy sites that are a source of shelter and protection for the civilian population who bear the brunt of the inhumane attacks in the Gaza Strip.” 

The Minister said South Africa continues to maintain that there is no legal, ethical, or moral justification for the bombardment of non-combatants and destruction of civilian sites. 

Lamola called on the international community to act decisively against this deliberate attempt to derail the ceasefire negotiations and the unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe due to the ongoing violations of international law.

“South Africa once again calls on the United Nations to deploy a rapid protection force to protect the civilian population from further bombardment.”

He also welcomed the ceasefire agreement between the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, which Angola facilitated.

In addition, he said South Africa was monitoring developments in Venezuela following the recent elections. 
Lamola has welcomed that President Nicolás Maduro was declared the winner and reaffirmed South Africa’s support for the people of Venezuela to self-determination without the interference of external forces. – SAnews.gov.za
 
 

Gabisile
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 09:35

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Entrepreneurship can be used to lift more women out of poverty, says President

Location: News

Entrepreneurship can be used to lift more women out of poverty, says President

President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that through stronger collaboration between government and business, along with the backing of labor and civil society, entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool to lift more women out of poverty.

The President said this in his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday.

“With greater collaboration between government and business, together with the support of labour and civil society, we can use entrepreneurship to lift more women out of poverty. We can create more jobs for women and help more women secure their financial freedom,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa said the private sector is playing an important role in guiding these entrepreneurship journeys through start-up incubators, women entrepreneurship awards and programmes such as the Youth Employment Service.

With the help of the Social Employment Fund and others, government is enabling women entrepreneurs to employ workers and provide mentorship to trainees.

“There is much more that the private sector can do. Access to financial resources, including credit lines, is vital to the viability of women-owned businesses.

“Another important area is access to tools of financial inclusion like bank accounts and mobile money and payment technologies. It will be critical to broaden the reach of financial services to include women in the informal sector and in rural areas.

“Empowering women contributes to thriving economies, spurs productivity and boosts economic growth,” President Ramaphosa said.

Last week, the country commemorated the Women’s March to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956. This historic protest by more than 20 000 South African women was a response to the cruel and dehumanising practices of the apartheid regime.

READ | Parliament committed to advancing gender equality

Thirty years into democracy, the President highlighted that government has made impressive strides in advancing gender equality across society, however we still have a long way to go in broadening women’s economic participation.

This is borne out by a recently published Gallup study titled ‘Gender Power in Africa’. The report analyses the disparities and imbalances that shape the lives of women in five African countries, including South Africa.

South Africa ranks the highest of the countries surveyed with respect to the rate of female participation in political decision-making, low rates of child marriage, and the participation and completion rates of girls in primary and secondary education.

However, of the countries surveyed, South Africa has the highest rate of unemployed women and women not in the workforce. The percentage of South African women considered to be self-employed or entrepreneurs is the lowest, at 5%.

“In this respect, we lag behind the rest of the continent. According to the World Economic Forum, women constitute 58% of self-employed people across Africa.  

“In a country such as ours, with a high unemployment rate, entrepreneurship is an important tool to empower more women and broaden their participation in the economy. This includes in the informal sector, which accounts for 18% of total employment in the country,” the President said.

WATCH | 

Through its various departments and entities, the President highlighted that the State provides financial support to women to enable them to start their own businesses and to sustain existing businesses.

Women-owned businesses are also able to access training in business and project management, IT and other skills.

“We have set a target to allocate at least 40% of public procurement spend to women-owned businesses. In 2021, we launched a Women’s Economic Assembly to enable women-owned enterprises to participate in local industry value chains. Since its inception this programme has yielded promising results in a number of key economic sectors, notably the automotive sector,” he said.

He further highlighted that government is striving to expand women’s access to economic activity through land ownership, enabling female farmers to own land through the state’s land redistribution programme and supporting them with equipment and other agricultural inputs.  

“From citrus farmers in the North West, cooperatives making affordable school furniture in KwaZulu-Natal, to cosmetics companies and tech start-ups in the Western Cape, women-owned enterprises all across the country are benefiting from an integrated approach to supporting small businesses,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za 
 

DikelediM
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 10:15

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Government pays tribute to Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule

Location: News

Government pays tribute to Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule

Government has joined the nation in mourning the passing of Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, a stalwart in the gospel music industry and a beloved radio personality. 

“Deepest condolences are extended to the Mbokazi and Nkambule families, as well as her Ukhozi FM family during this difficult time,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said.

Mbokazi-Nkambule reportedly passed away at Parklands Hospital in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, in the early hours of Monday.

“As the founder of the Crown Gospel Music Awards, Mbokazi-Nkambule provided a platform for gospel artists to be recognised and to showcase their talents; this contributed immensely in elevating the genre to new heights. 

“Her dedication and love for gospel music has helped many and nurtured the growth of gospel music in South Africa.

“Mbokazi-Nkambule’s voice resonated with millions while working as a radio personality on Ukhozi FM, where she captivated her listeners with her warmth, sincerity, and deep connection to her faith. She was a strong believer who was committed to her spiritual journey and the upliftment of others,” GCIS said.

Mbokazi-Nkambule’s contributions to the gospel music industry and the media will be remembered for generations to come. 

“Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of artists and broadcasters. As the country mourns her passing and remembering her remarkable life, let us stand with her family, friends, and all those who were touched by her work. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” GCIS said. - SAnews.gov.za
 

nosihle
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 15:11

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TT Waterproofing: Protecting Gauteng Properties from the Dangers of Water Damage

Location: MyPR

Pretoria, South Africa — In the ongoing battle against moisture intrusion, TT Waterproofing, a market leader in roofing and waterproofing systems, is committed to providing homeowners, business managers, and industrial property owners in Gauteng with effective solutions to safeguard their investments. With over nine years of experience in the industry, TT Waterproofing offers a range …

Read moreTT Waterproofing: Protecting Gauteng Properties from the Dangers of Water Damage

Xaba set to GO FOR GOLD at the Totalsports Women’s Race in Johannesburg

Location: MyPR

After an impressive third-place finish at the Totalsports Women’s Race in Cape Town on National Women’s Day (Friday, 9 August 2024), where she competed against the exceptional Christine Njoki (Kenya) and Tadu Nare (Ethiopia), South Africa’s national record holder Glenrose Xaba is more determined than ever to seize gold at the final event of the …

Read moreXaba set to GO FOR GOLD at the Totalsports Women’s Race in Johannesburg

Minister Blade Nzimande officially opens 32nd International Astronomical Union General Assembly

Location: News

South African Government
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The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande, officially opened the 32nd International Astronomical Union (IAU) General Assembly in Cape Town last night. The Minister addressed 2 000 delegates from the global astronomy community.

The meeting, held every three years, is an opportunity for astronomers to address key topics in contemporary astronomy and assess the latest scientific progress in various specialised areas.

This year's general assembly, under the theme "It's Time for Africa – Ke Nako", will highlight the continent's growing role in the global astronomical community and its contributions to global astronomical research and development, as well as its potential for future contributions.

Africa is home to some of the world's oldest astronomical achievements. Astronomy in Africa began at least 7 000 years ago, with a stone circle known as Nabta Playa in Egypt that predates Stonehenge by 2 000 years.

IAU President, Prof. Debra Elmegreen, in her address to the gathering, emphasised that astronomy was rooted in all cultures and invited broad thoughts about our place in the universe and on our fragile Earth.

"We celebrate the rich history of astronomy in Africa as we present our research, initiate new collaborations, enjoy networking, share astronomy with the public, and explore the local beauty. August is designated as Africa Astronomy Month, an appropriate cap to the Vision 2024 efforts that have united Africans in their preparations to share astronomy with the world," said Elmegreen.

Over two centuries ago, international observational survey work was led by astronomers in Cape Town and this work continues to the present day under the South African Astronomical Observatory.

Among many other telescopes in Africa, Prof. Elmegreen mentioned the High Energy Stereoscopic System (HESS) gamma ray telescope in Namibia, as well as the Southern African Large Telescope (the largest optical telescope in the Southern Hemisphere), the MeerKAT radio astronomy array, and the KELT-South and SuperWASP-South telescopes, all of which are located in South Africa.

Minister Nzimande spoke about how Africa's rich astronomy history continues to inspire, and the role of indigenous astronomy in South Africa's astronomy programmes. He praised the conference organisers for Cosmic Echoes, a Shared Sky indigenous art exhibition.

The Minister highlighted the trailblazing radio astronomy work that began in South Africa in Hartebeeshoek in 1961, in a partnership with NASA.

"Radio astronomy began in South Africa with a 26-metre dish built by NASA and placed in Hartebeesthoek in 1961 as a deep-space ground station used to get data from, and send commands to, many unmanned US space probes going beyond the Earth's orbit. This was later converted into a radio telescope that led to the establishment of the Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomical Observatory, which is now part of the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory.

"During the democratic era, the MeerKAT was built in Carnarvon as a precursor to the SKA project. The MeerKAT is another amazing achievement on the global science stage, and we wish to thank our international partners, Germany, Italy and China for their contribution to this project.

"We also have a growing gamma-ray astronomy community that actively participates in the HESS initiative," said the Minister.

He added that these strategic interventions had enabled the exponential growth of South African astronomers from 60 (only five of whom were radio astronomers) to about 300 over the last 30 years.

The Minister highlighted that the MeerKAT/SKA project, in particular, offered South Africa an opportunity to contribute to the knowledge economy and the big data revolution through international collaborations and the pursuit of world-class research, driving transformation and human capital development.

The Minister thanked the IAU for giving South Africa the opportunity to host the prestigious IAU General Assembly.

"This gathering reflects the global astronomy community's commitment to advancing research, fostering collaboration, and addressing contemporary challenges in astronomy and those faced by humanity," concluded the Minister.

The IAU conference runs until 14 August 2024.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Government.

Read moreMinister Blade Nzimande officially opens 32nd International Astronomical Union General Assembly

Committee Welcomes Deployment of Human Settlements Team to Assist Swartland Municipality Following Dam Wall Collapse

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Chairpersons of the Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements, Mr Nocks Seabi, has welcomed the swift intervention by the Minister of Human Settlements to assist the Swartland Municipality following the collapse of the three dam walls in the area.

“The swift response by the Minster to dispatch an emergency housing team to urgently intervene and assist displaced families whose homes were flooded following the collapse of the Riverlands Dam is testament to a caring government that responds to current challenges,” Mr Seabi said. Mr Seabi also emphasised that the current challenge represents an opportunity for greater collaboration between government departments to ensure that people are settled in areas that are not prone to risks and are below the flood line.

The Chairperson also highlighted the need for integrated planning in the development of human settlement areas, especially the use of the District Development Model, which centralises coordination of services.

Mr Seabi also urged the department and the municipality to urgently deliver building materials when promised to ensure that people do not wait for a long time without adequate shelter. The Chairperson has also urged the National Home Builders' Registration Council to urgently conclude assessments of structural integrity of damaged properties to enable the start of the rebuilding process.

“In a disaster like this one, no effort must be spared to ensure that people have the necessary shelter, especially because it is winter period and inclement weather can expose people to further hardship. It is also necessary that all government departments contribute and deliver services to ensure that life can continue despite the disaster,” Mr Seabi concluded.

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

Read moreCommittee Welcomes Deployment of Human Settlements Team to Assist Swartland Municipality Following Dam Wall Collapse

Northern Cape residents emphasise role of women in society

Location: News

Northern Cape residents emphasise role of women in society

With Women’s Month in full swing, residents of the Northern Cape say that while strides have been made to uplift women, more needs to be done to win the fight against gender-based violence.

“Today as women, government recognises us and listens to our voices, and we are represented in government departments and in Parliament. However, women still suffer at the hands of the perpetrators of gender-based violence, and many have been killed by those who do not understand the role or the importance of women in communities. We wish government can do more to protect women,” Sandra Booi, a resident of Pofadder, told SAnews.

Booi was one of hundreds of citizens who attended the national commemoration of Women’s Day at Denis Nel Stadium in Pofadder, Northen Cape, on Friday.

Lettie Swart, a resident of Upington, told SAnews that the commemoration of Women’s Day demonstrates government’s commitment to the cause of women.

“Women are the pillars of every society. Women played a crucial role during the struggle against the apartheid regime. Women were at the forefront and they deserve to be recognised,” Swart said.

Echoing the same sentiment, Johannes Matsaboge said: “It’s time that women are recognised and occupy senior positions in government. Women are capable of doing what men can do.”

President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the celebrations under the theme: "Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom Towards Women’s Development".

The President, joined by Northern Cape Premier Dr Zamani Saul and other government officials, signed a pledge for South African men to end gender-based violence and femicide.

The national event marks 68 years to the day since 20 000 women of diverse backgrounds from across South Africa marched on the Union Buildings to protest against the extension of the pass laws to women. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 11:05

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President Ramaphosa pays tribute to women

Location: News

President Ramaphosa pays tribute to women

President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to South Africa’s women, saying that they have played their part in building the country.

“We salute their resilience and their dignity,” he said on Friday.

Addressing the Women’s Day celebration at the Dennis Nel Stadium in Pofadder, Northern Cape, President Ramaphosa said each year on Women’s Day, government commemorates the historic march of more than 20 000 women to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956. The women were protesting against the pass laws of the apartheid era.

“Today, as we celebrate 30 years of freedom and democracy, we should take stock. We should reflect on how far we have come, and we should deliberate on the challenges that stand in the way of the emancipation of South Africa’s women.”

President Ramaphosa said to move forward as a country, the nation must understand its past.

“South Africa remains a highly unequal country. Poverty still has the face of a black woman. Black women are more likely to be unemployed, to be poor and to be unskilled.

“Apartheid broke up families. Men were recruited as migrant labourers, leaving women and children behind to fend for themselves. Young girls were brought up for marriage. They did not go to school. They were confined to the home.

“Over 30 years, through the struggles of women, we have done much to improve the status and circumstance of South African women. We have built on the struggles of many decades.”

Rights and freedoms

The President said that women now have the right to vote.

“They have the right to equal work for equal pay. They have the right to equality before the law. We have made great progress in providing for the protection of mother and child. As the Women’s Charter demands, we have worked to provide proper homes for all. But much is still to be done.

“Women in South Africa enjoy rights and freedoms under our Constitution. They benefit from progressive legislation. Women today are significantly represented in Parliament, in government and in the judiciary.

“Women in South Africa enjoy the right to quality healthcare, including reproductive health care. Millions of South African women are supported every month with social grants to enable them to care for their families and support their children,” the President said.

The President also added that South Africa has one of the highest rates of female literacy “in our region.” 

“There is parity between girls and boys in primary school enrolment.  Female learners achieve more bachelors passes. Young women make up the majority of students in higher education institutions.”

Improving the lives of women 

President Ramaphosa said that government has prioritised women and youth in its public employment programmes. This, as around 66% of participants in the Presidential Employment Stimulus are women.

“Yet, we still have much further to go. As the Government of National Unity, we are united across the political spectrum by our common commitment to improve the lives of South African women. 

“To grow our economy and accelerate development, women must take their rightful place as active participants in the economy.  Women must be business owners, producers, employers and employees.”

To support this effort, in 2021 government launched the Women’s Economic Assembly.

The Assembly aims to secure procurement opportunities for women-owned businesses in different industries.

Through the Women’s Economic Empowerment Programme approximately 8000 women have been trained to establish and manage businesses.

“With funding from government and development finance institutions, we are increasing the support provided to women-owned enterprises,” said President Ramaphosa.

Government is also working to ensure that more women can own land, especially in rural areas. 

This is so that they can farm and have assets they can use to build and grow businesses. - SAnews.gov.za 

Edwin
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 13:28

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South Africa’s Rich Heritage: The Rhino and Lion Park, Soweto, and Cultural Tours

Location: MyPR

Introduction South Africa, a melting pot of cultures and history, offers a tapestry of enriching experiences that cater to wildlife enthusiasts and cultural buffs alike. From the thrilling encounters at the Rhino and Lion Park to the Soweto tours and insightful cultural tours, this guide promises to navigate you through some of the most captivating …

Read moreSouth Africa’s Rich Heritage: The Rhino and Lion Park, Soweto, and Cultural Tours

North West Premier welcomes improved audit outcomes

Location: News

North West Premier welcomes improved audit outcomes

North West Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi has welcomed the significant improvement in the 2023/24 audit outcomes for provincial departments, which show a marked progression from the previous year.

In the latest audit cycle ended 31 March 2024, a total of nine out of 12 departments received unqualified audit reports, whereby two of them received clean audits. Only one department received a qualified audit outcome, with a reduction in audit qualification paragraphs.

The provincial government said this positive trend reflects government's ongoing commitment to enhancing financial management, accountability and transparency across all its departments and entities.

“We are particularly encouraged by the increase in clean audits and the overall accuracy of our financial statements. These improvements are aligned to our ongoing efforts to build public trust, enhance service delivery and improve the lives of the people of the North West,” the Premier said.

The provincial government said current year performance reveals that the new techniques that were employed over the previous year, which included working closely with Chief Financial Officers and officials in the financial management sections are yielding the desired results.

“In the previous year, the province managed to obtain seven unqualified audit outcomes, while five departments were qualified, prompting the provincial government to increase its support to these five departments. The expansion in audit coverage bears testimony to the province's comprehensive financial oversight and accountability,” the provincial government said.

Mokgosi said part of building a capable, ethical and developmental State is to see to it that government has sound financial management controls.

The Premier said the collaborative efforts of the Provincial Treasury, Provincial Audit Committee, the Auditor General of South Africa, dedicated members and chairpersons of portfolio committees and other robust governance structures continue to set the province on a positive developmental trajectory.

“We made significant progress in addressing the root causes of the challenges that culminated into Section 100. These key stakeholders have been instrumental in implementing comprehensive reforms, enhancing financial management and strengthening oversight mechanisms,” Mokgosi said. - SAnews.gov.za
 

nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 09:30

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Attachment of assets of BOSASA accused welcomed

Location: News

Attachment of assets of BOSASA accused welcomed

The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development Chairperson Xola Nqola has commended the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for its continued work relating to corrupt activities, with the attachment of assets worth millions from the BOSASA accused and their families.

“South Africa has lost millions of rands due to corrupt activities that could have been used for the many challenges that still exist in the country. We note that this is a temporary attachment of assets and appeal to the NPA to speedily ensure that it follows all processes to ensure it becomes a permanent one,” Nqola said.

According to reports, corruption-accused BOSASA bosses and their families have had a temporary restraint placed on their properties, valuables and cars, all worth more than R53 million. 

The court order obtained by the NPA includes two apartments in north-eastern Italy worth an estimated R17 million.

“Our people don’t have houses, yet criminals have properties valued at millions, which were likely obtained with money stolen from government, money that was meant to go to health, education and social grants,” Nqola said.

He said the Zondo commission highlighted the large scale of the corruption perpetrated by BOSASA with officials of the Department of Correctional Services. 

READ | Agrizzi to appear in Pretoria High Court next week

“We want all those who benefitted from this corrupt relationship to know that South Africans want their money back. Furthermore, we applaud the NPA for the sterling work and encourage them to go after all corruption accused.

"The committee will fully support [the NPA in its] endeavour to obtain justice for the people of South Africa,” Nqola said. 

BOSASA was a South African company specialising in providing services to government, most notably correctional services. The company was liquidated in 2019 after revelations of malfeasance and corrupt activities, which were reported during the Zondo Commission of Enquiry. - SAnews.gov.za

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Caring Solutions: Accessible Support for South Africa’s Women

Location: MyPR

Understanding the Need for Accessible Abortion Clinics The journey of reproductive health is a deeply personal one, and access to safe and legal abortion services is a crucial part of this journey. In South Africa, abortion clinics provide essential services, ensuring women have the support and care they need.   Why Accessibility Matters Accessibility to …

Read moreCaring Solutions: Accessible Support for South Africa’s Women

Jo-Ane van Dyk earns Team SA’s sixth medal at Olympics

Location: News

Jo-Ane van Dyk earns Team SA’s sixth medal at Olympics

South African athlete Jo-Ane van Dyk has earned Team South Africa’s sixth medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics Games.

Van Dyk won a silver medal during the women's javelin on Saturday at the Stade de France, Paris, on Saturday night.

“At a packed Stade de France on the final night of track and field action at these Games, she produced a third effort of 63.93m, which highlighted the form she’d shown all week, and moved her up into the silver medal, behind Japan’s Haruka Kitaguchi, who had opened with a winning 65.80m.

“It was an emotional evening all round, because Van Dyk is coached by Terseus Liebenberg, who also guided Viljoen to the silver medal at Rio 2016,” the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) said.

Van Dyk had attended her first Olympics in Tokyo, and there she was eliminated in qualifying with a best of 57.69m. 

“Here, she is three years older, three years wiser and a different athlete entering the prime of her career. The South African’s first throw of 59.72m had been below par by her standards. She upped it by exactly two metres to 61.72m, which still wasn’t enough to get into medal contention on a stacked leaderboard. 

“However, her third throw was another two metres further and that 63.93m was to be 25cm better than bronze medallist Nikola Ogrodnikova, and 53cm better than the fourth-placed finisher, Sara Kolak,” SASCOC said.

Meanwhile, high jumper Brian Raats couldn’t better his first jump, where he cleared 2.17m, and ended up in 12th place, with the gold going to New Zealand’s Hamiush Kerr with 2.36m.

“Team SA’s men’s 4x400m took to the track having been reinstated into the final after the referee intervened on Friday following interference and a tumble in their heat. Gardeo Isaacs, in lane one, took the opening, which he covered in 45.67sec, leaving Zakhiti Nene at the back of a nine-country field.

“However, Nene again scorched around the track and has been Team SA’s best 400m athlete at these Games. He made up four places with a lap of 43.81. Lythe Pillay kept the momentum with a 43.97 run and at the changeover, South Africa were still fifth. And that’s where they stayed as Antonie Nortje finished off with a 44.67.

"With the United States winning gold in an Olympic record 2:54.43, South Africa’s quartet set a national record 2:58.12,” SASCOC said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 11:20

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Team SA displays fortitude at Paris Olympics

Location: News

Team SA displays fortitude at Paris Olympics

Team South Africa has shown commendable fortitude at the 2024 Paris Olympics Games, having participated in five sporting codes on Saturday.

The team started with five medals but javelin thrower Jo-Ane van Dyk upped it to six with a brilliant effort of 63.93m. 

READ | Jo-Ane van Dyk earns Team SA’s sixth medal at Olympics

“Also in finals action at a packed Stade de France on Saturday night were high jumper Brian Raats and the men’s 4x400m relay squad.

“The men’s marathon saw Elroy Galant and Stephen Mokoka take to the Paris roads and hills. Galant finished a fine 11th overall, in 2hr 9min 7sec, while Mokoka crossed the line in 27th position, dipping under 2:11 by one second,” the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) said.

Canoeist Hamish Lovemore won his 1000m B-Final, which placed him 9th overall to end his Games on a high.

“Wrestler Nicholas de Lange was always going to be up against it in terms of his draw, and lost his match, while golfers Ashleigh Buhai and Paula Reto wrapped up four days at Le National Golf.

“China, with 38 golds, the United States (with 37), Australia (18), Japan (17) and France (15) took the lead in the medal standings. Team SA are 40th with one gold (Tatjana Smith), three silvers (Smith, men’s 4x100m and Van Dyk) and two bronzes (men’s Sevens rugby and Alan Hatherly),” SASCOC said.

Athletics

•    Men’s marathon: Elroy Galant finished 11th in 2hr 9min 7sec, some 2min 41sec behind the gold medallist, Tamarat Tola. The Ethiopian set an Olympic record in winning in 2:06:26. Stephen Mokoka was 27th, with a time of 2:10:59.
•    Men’s high jump, final: Brian Raats finished 12th with an opening height of 2.17m.
•    Women’s javelin, final: SILVER! Jo-Ane van Dyk threw a distance of 63.93m to take second. position.
•    Men’s 4x400m, final: Team SA finished 5th behind the United States in a national record 2:58.12.

Canoeing 

•    Men’s kayak single 1000m semi-finals: Hamish Lovemore finished 8th in 3:38.39 and qualified for the B-final.
•    Men’s kayak single 1000m B-Final: Lovemore won his race in 3:27.94, which would have placed him fourth in the A-final, and he took 9th place overall.

Cycling

•    Men’s keiren, first round heats: Jean Spies finished 6th in his heat and advanced to the repechage.
•    Men’s keiren, repechage: Jean Spies finished 5th in his heat and didn’t progress to the quarter-finals.

Golf  women’s individual, final round 

•    T13th 285 Ashleigh Buhai 68, 73, 74, 70 (3-under).
•    T44th 299 Paula Reto 78, 73, 76, 72 (11-over). 

- SAnews.gov.za
 

nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 11:43

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Read moreTeam SA displays fortitude at Paris Olympics

Mia Le Roux wins Miss South Africa

Location: News

Mia Le Roux wins Miss South Africa

Twenty-eight year-old Mia Le Roux has won the Miss South Africa title at glitzy event held at the Sun Bet Arena in Pretoria.

According to the Miss South Africa website, Le Roux she was born in Sasolburg, Free State and raised in Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape. 

“She is a marketing manager, model and part-time B Com Marketing student. She was diagnosed with profound hearing loss at the age of one and her community rallied behind her to give her the gift of hearing; inspiring her desire to make a positive impact and break barriers. She describes herself as resilient, dedicated, graceful and kind,” the website said.

In a post on Saturday night on the social media platform X, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie said: “Congratulations to our South African Queen Mia le Roux. I know you will represent us well at Miss Universe.”

The Miss South Africa pageant describes itself as a leadership platform for ambitious young South African women. 

“Through a pageantry process, contestants receive world-renowned coaching in addition to advanced networking, business and life skills. Shaped into brand ambassadors for our country, they become champions of women’s rights, thought leaders and savvy career women who inspire other young South Africans to fulfil their potential, recognise their self-worth and find their place in the world,” the website said. - SAnews.gov.za 

nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 12:03

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Parliament committed to advancing gender equality

Location: News

Parliament committed to advancing gender equality

As South Africa commemorates Women’s Month, Parliament has reaffirmed its commitment to the ongoing programme for greater women empowerment, emancipation and development, and continues to fight all forms of violence against women.

“Parliament will continue to enhance its oversight to ensure the effective implementation of legislation and policies to promote and protect the constitutionally enshrined rights of women in society,” Parliament’s Presiding Officers, led by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, said in a joint statement.

The Presiding Officers made these remarks ahead Women’s Day, which was celebrated under the theme: "Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom Towards Women’s Development". 

This year’s commemoration of Women’s Day marked 68 years to the day since 20 000 women of diverse backgrounds from across South Africa marched on the Union Buildings to protest against the extension of pass laws to women.

The women presented a petition against the carrying of passes by women. 

The Presiding Officers reflected on the country’s progress over the last 30 years of democracy towards greater gender equity and inclusivity. Parliament has passed laws that have significantly improved the lives of women.

“These legislative efforts have focused on promoting gender equality, protecting women's rights, and ensuring their participation in all aspects of society, from the workplace to the political arena. 

“Parliament has also reinforced its commitment to combating gender-based violence by passing laws designed to enhance protection for victims and ensure justice for survivors. These advancements mark significant strides towards a more just and equitable society.

“The democratic dividend has been felt by many, as our women have become makers of history as leaders in government, Parliament and legislatures, the judiciary, and the private sector. Notably, among them is Justice Mandisa Maya, the first woman appointed as Chief Justice in the country. We welcome and applaud this historic milestone,” the Presiding Officers said.

READ | Cabinet congratulates Justice Maya on her appointment as Chief Justice

This year also marks the 70th anniversary of the adoption of the 1954 Women’s Charter by the founding conference of the Federation of South African Women (FSAW). 

The Charter called for, among other things, the enfranchisement of men and women of all races; equal opportunities in employment; equal pay for equal work; equal rights concerning property, marriage and children; and the removal of all laws and customs that denied women such equality.

While the Presiding Officers reflected on the progress made in uplifting women over the last 30 years, they also acknowledged the challenges that persist.

“In celebrating these milestones and advances made in the pursuit of women’s emancipation during the last 30 years of our democracy, we remain conscious that much more needs to be done to achieve a non-sexist, non-racial, democratic and prosperous South Africa. 

“We must do more, be more vigilant, and guard against the scourge threatening the gains of progress made for our women. This responsibility is a shared one for government, Parliament and every South African,” the Presiding Officers said. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 10:10

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The Beach Palace Ramsgate Nominated for International Travel Award

Location: MyPR

The Beach Palace Ramsgate, a luxurious 5-star guesthouse with stunning views over the Indian Ocean, has been nominated for the prestigious Golden Tree International Travel Award, representing South Africa on the global stage. This nomination is a testament to The Beach Palace’s commitment to excellence, sustainability, and unparalleled guest experiences. As a premier guesthouse, The …

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