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All systems go for registered voters to cast ballots abroad

Location: News

All systems go for registered voters to cast ballots abroad

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) says it is confident that all systems are in place for the shipment of voting materials to enable South African citizens living abroad to cast their ballots. 

The department and the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) have met and agreed on the logistics for the dispatching of election materials. 

Voting materials will be sent to all 115 South African diplomatic missions using diplomatic airfreight bags. 

“A short-term contract for this purpose is in place. The diplomatic bag is protected by diplomatic immunity. DIRCO makes use of diplomatic bags to dispatch official documents and articles to and from South Africa per the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961 and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations of 1963,” the department explained. 

According to the IEC, by law, citizens can only vote abroad on the date specified in the election timetable, which is typically 10 days before voting day in the country. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 04/30/2024 - 15:04

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Black business called to be part of rebuilding SA economy

Location: News

Black business called to be part of rebuilding SA economy

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on black business and black industrialists to be part of efforts to rebuild the country’s economy.

President Ramaphosa made the call at the Black Business Council (BBC) gala dinner held at Kempton Park in Johannesburg on Tuesday night.

He warned that without investment there can be no jobs, and without job creation on a large scale “our prospects for achieving full economic transformation are diminished”.

“By strategically investing in the economy we are laying the groundwork for prosperity, connectivity, and opportunity across our nation. Green industrialisation is an area of opportunity for black business,” President Ramaphosa said. 

The President said government is prioritising the production of electric vehicles, green hydrogen production, and the processing of critical minerals essential for the battery value chain. 

In February 2024, the President announced a comprehensive set of incentives designed to spur investment in these critical sectors, which will be rolled out over a ten-year period. 

The incentives will stimulate innovation, attract private capital, and accelerate the adoption of green technologies, ensuring a just and equitable transition towards a sustainable future.

By embracing green industrialisation and promoting a just transition, the President said government is not only safeguarding the country’s environment but also fostering economic resilience and creating new opportunities for the workforce. 

The President said as part of government’s commitment to fostering economic inclusion and levelling the playing field, the Competition Commission will continue to embark on market inquiries across the economy.  

“These inquiries are aimed at addressing high levels of economic concentration and encouraging greater participation by small businesses. By identifying barriers to entry and promoting fair competition, we will create opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs to thrive and contribute to our economy.

“These initiatives underscore our dedication to promoting economic empowerment, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating a more inclusive and equitable economy,” President Ramaphosa said.

He noted that over the past 30 years, South Africa has undergone deep, fundamental, and irreversible change.

Black business has been a valued partner along this journey and he said he has no doubt it will continue to be so for time to come.

He noted that government’s relationship with the Black Business Council has deepened since the sixth administration took office in 2019. “I think I can say with confidence that it is also stronger,” he added.

President Ramaphosa commended the council for responding to the call he made during his inauguration speech five years ago for all South Africans to join government in setting its sights high on a future of growth and economic opportunity. 

“You have rallied both with us and around us as government, in what has been a turbulent period marked by a global pandemic, civil unrest, natural disaster, crises in energy and logistics, and slow economic growth that has been further exacerbated by all the aforementioned challenges. 

“We also know that as the sixth administration took office, we were also confronted with the task of rebuilding capacity in key state institutions practically from the ground up, following the devastating years of state capture,” the President said. 

What has been immensely encouraging is that the door of engagement has always remained open, he said, adding that engagements have been productive and have always taken place in a positive spirit of partnership.

“As we look to the future with optimism, let us continue to work together on this journey towards a fully transformed economy where no one is left behind,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za 

 

GabiK
Wed, 05/01/2024 - 12:46

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Dr Motsuenyane: A torchbearer of black economic empowerment

Location: News

Dr Motsuenyane: A torchbearer of black economic empowerment

Small Business Development Minister, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, has described the late Dr Sam Motsuenyane as a doyen of black business and a torchbearer of black economic empowerment.

“He represents a generation of black entrepreneurs who, despite formidable odds, managed to take their destinies into their own hands and built business empires whose successes defied the apartheid logic,” Ndabeni-Abrahams said.

The Minister said Dr Motsuenyane contributed enormously to the downfall of apartheid and was one of the architects of South Africa’s new democracy. 

Dr Motsuenyane died at the age of 97 on Monday.

As a co-founder of the National African Federated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NAFCOC), he will be remembered as a tireless advocate and defender of the interests of black business in the country, especially during the dark days of apartheid. 

“As we proudly celebrate his legacy and the mark he made in pursuit of black economic emancipation, we are also reminded of his pioneering roles, including the establishment of the African Bank. It shall be recalled that the apartheid regime denied the black majority the right to trade and conduct businesses of their choice. 

“With the laws of the land and economic policies heavily stacked against them and with policies intended to squeeze them out of economic activity, Dr Motsuenyane and his peers rose and emerged to become business icons of our nation. We salute them for carving their own path despite heavy odds stacked against them,” the Minister said.

Ndabeni-Abrahams noted that Dr Motsuenyane’s exemplary life is that of an ordinary son of the soil who, during his lifetime, demonstrated extraordinary courage and gave his nation hope. 

“His towering, yet gentle presence in our midst, always gave us the assurance that we stand on the shoulders of giants [and] as the Ministry of Small Business Development, we are inspired by Dr Motsuenyane’s legacy. 

“The best tribute we can pay in honour of his memory and legacy is to devote our collective efforts towards building and sustaining the township and village economy, and to intensify broad-based black economic empowerment.

“In his name and memory, we will intensify our efforts to empower small businesses and promote entrepreneurship,” Ndabeni-Abrahams said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 05/01/2024 - 11:56

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The Rise of Digital Marketing Agencies in South Africa

Location: MyPR

In the heart of South Africa, a digital revolution is unfolding. As the digital landscape continues to evolve at a breakneck pace, businesses across the Rainbow Nation are increasingly turning to digital marketing agencies to navigate this complex terrain. These agencies, known for their innovative strategies and cutting-edge technologies, are playing a pivotal role in …

Read moreThe Rise of Digital Marketing Agencies in South Africa

A Comprehensive Guide to TVs Available in South Africa

Location: MyPR

In the dynamic landscape of home entertainment, choosing the right television can be a pivotal decision. With an array of options available in the South African market, navigating through the myriad of specifications and features can seem daunting. This comprehensive guide aims to streamline the process, offering insights into the diverse range of TVs for …

Read moreA Comprehensive Guide to TVs Available in South Africa

Government pays tribute to South Africa’s workers

Location: News

Government pays tribute to South Africa's workers

As South Africa joins the rest of the world in celebrating International Workers’ Day, government has paid tribute to all workers, especially frontline workers who continue to provide essential services on this public holiday.

Celebrated annually on 1 May, International Workers’ Day or May Day, pays tribute to the historical struggle of workers and their trade unions for solidarity and fair employment standards.

This year’s International Workers’ Day is commemorated under the theme: “30 Years of Freedom”.

This year also marks the 133-year anniversary of May Day, a testament to the enduring legacy of the labour movement.

In South Africa, the journey began with the formation of the Congress of South African Trade Union (COSATU) in December 1985. The union’s demand for May Day to be recognised as a public holiday and renamed Workers’ Day was heeded by approximately 1.5 million workers.

The workers were joined by thousands of learners, students, taxi drivers, hawkers, shopkeepers, domestic workers, and self–employed and unemployed people.

Despite being banned in advance by the apartheid government, rallies were held across the country with the majority held in the Pretoria-Witwatersrand-Vereeniging area, now known as Gauteng.

Workers’ Day has been officially acknowledged and commemorated in South Africa since the inaugural democratic government in 1994.

The Department of Employment and Labour said the day serves dual purposes – a celebration of workers’ rights and a poignant reminder of the pivotal role that trade unions, the Communist Party and other labour organisations played in the struggle against apartheid.

“Workers’ Day in South Africa carries its unique cultural significance. The public holiday has come to symbolise not only the sacrifices made in an arduous journey towards fair employment standards but also the fierce battle against apartheid, where trade and labour played a crucial role,” the department said in a statement on Wednesday.

Given that South Africa’s working classes were the most oppressed under apartheid, the department said the fight for improved working conditions and the battle to dismantle systematic segregation became inextricably linked.

“Prior to the 1994 elections, labour and trade groups frequently used Workers’ Day as a rallying symbol against segregation and oppression of the apartheid regime, organising demonstrations and fostering widespread resistance. This day serves as a testament to their resilience and determination,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 05/01/2024 - 10:29

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Mashatile calls on leaders from all sectors to build SA’s economy

Location: News

Mashatile calls on leaders from all sectors to build SA's economy

Leaders from all sectors of society must join hands to build a resilient economy and fight corruption, says the Deputy President, Paul Mashatile. 

“We must collaborate, with each playing a distinctive part, to generate employment and boost trade and investment between our nations, the continent and the world,” he told delegates during a dialogue on the role of leadership in fostering economic growth, hosted by the African United Business Confederation (AUBC).

The roundtable dialogue held on Tuesday focused on the role of leadership in economic growth.

The Deputy President said he believed that effective leadership significantly affects the economic landscape of nations and societies. 

“We are convinced that to build our economy, leaders from all sectors, including business, politics, government, and civil society, must work together,” he said.  

“Our roles are all important, and if one lags behind, it will affect the growth of our economy. It is our duty as political leaders in government to formulate policies that promote an environment conducive to economic growth.”

The country’s second-in-command said effective economic policies can stimulate innovation, promote entrepreneurship and drive innovation. 

“As you may have observed, since the advent of democracy, we have created political stability by promoting free and fair elections, which will continue to be the case in the upcoming election on 29 May 2024.” 

The Deputy President said a stable political environment is critical for investor confidence and economic growth. 

He told the private sector leaders that they have a responsibility to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, both of which are vital to economic expansion and job creation. 

In addition, he said, the private sector is key to enhancing the competitiveness of the South African economy. 

“Together, as leaders, we possess the foresight to identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and make strategic decisions that drive sustainable economic development.”

He acknowledged that despite attaining political freedom and substantial advancements since 1994, South Africa is yet to realise economic freedom and an economy that adequately provides for the majority of its population. 

“As present-day leaders across various sectors of our society, we must set aside our differences and concentrate on fully rousing the potential of South Africa’s economy. 

“We must proactively address socio-economic challenges such as high unemployment, poverty, inequality and corruption.” 

Corruption

He added that in order to reach the goal of ending poverty and boosting economic growth set out in the National Development Plan, “we must all work together to fight corruption and support accountability, openness, and good government”. 

The fight against corruption should be multifaceted, involving both the public and private sectors. 

“We have to strengthen anti-corruption partnerships, intensify efforts, and promote a zero-tolerance approach to corruption led by capable leaders, who are resilient, highly adaptable and willing to implement bold reforms to surmount our challenges and transform the economy.” 

Inclusion

In addition, he called on leaders across sectors to be intentional in their inclusion of women, youth and other marginalised groups in economic reform efforts. 

He also touched on the Red Tape Reduction Team introduced by President Cyril Ramaphosa to improve the ease of doing business in the country and further stimulate business development. 

“The team focuses on reducing red tape in priority areas such as mining rights, tourism operator licenses, travel visas, work permits, and the informal sector, aiming to create a competitive and vibrant economy.” 

In addition, he said government has also reduced regulatory hurdles for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) and cooperatives, reduced VAT refund processing time from 15 weeks to four to five weeks and reduced the corporate income tax audit process from 32 weeks to 17 weeks.

“We have a collective role to play in paving the way for future generations of leaders to contribute to the transformation of our economy. Through strategic leadership, we unlock the countries’ potential, drive innovation, and create a better future.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 04/30/2024 - 12:32

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More swimming news from Treverton – Sarah Sykes grade 7 top result at Swimming South Africa Regional Level 3 Swimming Championships, in Bloemfontein

Location: MyPR

Also a huge congratulations to Sarah Sykes, a grade 7 student who is swimming in the Swimming South Africa Regional Level 3 Swimming Championships, in Bloemfontein, for her 1st place finish in 50m Breaststroke and a 3rd in the 100m Breaststroke. We are so proud of you and your dedication to this sport. Education truly …

Read moreMore swimming news from Treverton – Sarah Sykes grade 7 top result at Swimming South Africa Regional Level 3 Swimming Championships, in Bloemfontein

National Orders: Heroes and heroines receive SA’s highest honour

Location: News

National Orders: Heroes and heroines receive SA’s highest honour

President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday bestowed National Orders to 32 recipients during a ceremony held at the Sefako M. Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Tshwane.

The awards are the highest honour that can be given in South Africa.

In the National Orders Book for 2024, Director-General in the Presidency Phindile Baleni – who is Chancellor of National Orders – heaped praise on the recipients.

READ | President Ramaphosa bestows National Orders

“These men and women have given concrete meaning to the eternal values of selflessness, love for freedom, racial harmony, equality and self-application, so as to reach seemingly impossible heights of achievement that we proudly acknowledge today, and from which our nation benefits,” Baleni said.

The recipients are as follows:

The Order of Mendi for Bravery in Silver:

  • Ms MaWilliams Kekana
  • Mr Ignatius ‘Iggy’ Mthebule (Posthumous)
  • Mr Makhwezi McDonald Mtulu (Posthumous)
  • Mr Robert Anthony Basil Waterwitch (Posthumous)
  • Ms Coline Denise Williams (Posthumous)

The Order of Ikhamanga in Gold:

  • Ms Nontando ‘Noni’ Helen Jabavu (Posthumous)
  • Dr Aggrey Klaaste (Posthumous)
  • Dr Muziwakhe ‘Madala’ Kunene

The Order of Ikhamanga in Silver:

  • Mr Angus Gibson
  • Mr Emile Lester Jansen
  • Ms Saray N’kusi Khumalo
  • Ms Sophie Msoziswa Mahlangu
  • Dr Latozi ‘Madosini’ Mpahleni (Posthumous)
  • Mr Trevor Dundas Mweli Skota (Posthumous)

The Order of the Baobab in Gold:

  • Ms Blanche Valeria La Guma (Posthumous)
  • Ms Zukiswa Patricia Matolengwe

The Order of Luthuli in Gold:

  • Mr Mxolisi ‘Dicky’ Jacobs (Posthumous)
  • Mr Peter Cyril Jones (Posthumous)
  • Mr Benjamin Langa (Posthumous)
  • Mr Thobekile ‘Topsy’ Madaka (Posthumous)
  • Mr Siphiwo Mtimkhulu (Posthumous)
  • Prof Harry Ranwedzi Nengwekhulu
  • Mr Kenneth Hlako Rachidi (Posthumous)
  • Ms Annie Silinga (Posthumous)
  • Ms Nokuthula Simelane (Posthumous)

The Order of Mapungubwe in Silver:

  • Prof Mulalo Doyoyo (Posthumous)

The Order of The Companions Of Or Tambo In Silver:

  • Mr Huub Bammens – The Netherlands
  • Ms Donna Katzin – United States of America
  • Mr Ken Luckhardt – Canada
  • Sir Nicholas Stadlen (Posthumous) –United Kingdom
  • Mr Fulco Van Aurich – The Netherlands
  • Ms Brenda Wall – Canada

“They have, without exception, proffered worthy contributions to the development of our society so that we may not only aspire to, but actually become who we want to become. Indeed, they have contributed to our state of liberty.

“We commend to you these noble men and women of our country, our continent and our common world, as recipients of the prestigious National Orders. We salute them, one and all,” Baleni said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 04/30/2024 - 12:37

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Supporting Education and Social Well-Being in Nuwerus Community

Location: News

Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government
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The Department of Local Government, led by the Service Delivery Integration Directorate, has showcased its dedication to enhanced education and social well-being within the Nuwerus community. As part of the Citizen Interface Pilot Programme in Matzikama District Municipality Ward 8, running from April 24th to 26th, 2024, the department has focused its efforts on providing vital resources to Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centers and NGOs.

Through a ceremonious equipment handover, alongside educational materials and related supplies, the department aims to address the pressing needs of deep rural areas, where communities often feel overlooked by governmental support. This initiative underscores the importance of fostering stronger connections between government entities and citizens, particularly in marginalized regions.

This endeavor has been made possible through collaborative efforts with a diverse array of stakeholders, including governmental departments at all levels, NGOs, Community-Based Organizations, and the private sector. Such multi-faceted cooperation reflects a comprehensive approach to community development, emphasizing the significance of collective action in tackling complex social challenges.

Of particular note is the director's emphasis on the initiative's broader impact beyond monetary assistance. By providing resources, energy, and forging partnerships, the aim is to instill hope and confidence among the citizens of Nuwerus, illustrating a nuanced understanding of community needs that extends beyond mere financial aid.

In summary, the Department of Local Government's proactive involvement in supporting education and social well-being in Nuwerus exemplifies a collaborative and citizen-centric approach to governance. These efforts not only strengthen the bond between government and communities but also lay the foundation for sustainable development in the region. As we move forward, let us focus on the work of the coordinated ministries to enhance the lived experiences of the citizens we serve.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government.

Read moreSupporting Education and Social Well-Being in Nuwerus Community

Matching the Mismatching Skills Gap

Location: MyPR

As the world celebrates International Workers’ Day, on 01 May, Afrika Tikkun (AT) emphasizes the importance of skills development and adaptability in today’s rapidly evolving economy. Afrika Tikkun calls on workers to take charge of their skills development to remain relevant and valuable contributors to both their households and the economy. South Africa’s labour workforce …

Read moreMatching the Mismatching Skills Gap

South Africa’s Global Reputation Surpasses Expectation, But There Is Room For Improvement

Location: MyPR

In an effort to assess South Africa’s global reputation in various key areas, Brand South Africa conducted extensive research on the perceptions that other countries have on South Africa. A total of 17 countries were surveyed with over 9800 respondents and focused on brand audiences related to tourism, investment, talent, exports and general reputation. On …

Read moreSouth Africa’s Global Reputation Surpasses Expectation, But There Is Room For Improvement

Deputy President Mashatile applauds efforts to keep the lights on

Location: News

Deputy President Mashatile applauds efforts to keep the lights on

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has applauded the Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa’s leadership in striving to find solutions to power cuts and increasing energy availability.

“It is commendable that we have had four consecutive weeks without power interruptions. We equally commend the Eskom team as led by Mr Dan Morakane in this regard,” he said on Tuesday.  

Deputy President Mashatile made the comments this morning at a dialogue on the role of leadership in fostering economic growth. The session was hosted by the African United Business Confederation (AUBC) in Sandton.

He emphasised that government will ensure that all power stations have the right leaders who will drive the appropriate discipline within those operations. 

“While some think that this is an electioneering strategy, I want to reassure you that this reality is just evidence of improvements in the entity’s operations.”

Last week, Ramokgopa and Eskom leadership attributed the lack of load shedding for over 34 days to sustained available generation capacity and sufficient emergency reserves.

Energy Action Plan

Meanwhile, the Deputy President told delegates that government’s strategy to improve Eskom’s performance has been the implementation of a concerted and deliberate Energy Action Plan (EAP). 

The State, he stressed, remains committed to implementing the EAP’s key interventions. 

These include fixing Eskom, improving the availability of existing supplies, enabling and accelerating private investment in generation capacity, and unleashing businesses and households to invest in rooftop solar energy. 

“Furthermore, we are ensuring that all power stations have the right leaders who will drive the appropriate discipline within those operations.” 

The Deputy President welcomed the changes made over the past 18 months in Eskom’s leadership, saying he believed that with the right skills, talent and experience, South Africa will soon achieve an energy-secure future. 

“We are similarly committed to implementing all necessary steps to maintain the security of our infrastructure, as it is crucial to attaining long-term economic and social goals.” 

Infrastructure Investment Plan

He reminded delegates that in 2020, Cabinet adopted the Infrastructure Investment Plan, which was a demonstration of government’s commitment to infrastructure development. 

The plan includes projects from government, state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and the private sector in six sectors. These comprise energy, water and sanitation, transport, digital infrastructure, human settlements, as well as agriculture and agro-processing. 

“We are certain that these ambitious projects will boost the economy and reduce unemployment.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Tue, 04/30/2024 - 12:52

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Promoting a Growth Mindset Culture: Nurturing Learning Agility in South African Workplaces

Location: MyPR

By Sayeeda Nabi – Student Accounts Manager at Regent Business School Highlighting challenges and opportunities unique to South Africa’s diverse workforce, this thought leadership piece offers strategies for fostering resilience and adaptability. Drawing from global exemplars like Microsoft and Sasol, Sayeeda Nabi, Regent Business School’s Student Accounts Manager underscores the benefits of nurturing a growth …

Read morePromoting a Growth Mindset Culture: Nurturing Learning Agility in South African Workplaces

All systems go for registered South African voters to cast ballots abroad

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation
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The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) is confident that all systems are in place for the shipment of voting materials to enable South African citizens living abroad to cast their ballots.

DIRCO and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) have met and agreed on logistics for the dispatching of election materials.

Voting materials will be sent to all 115 South African diplomatic missions using diplomatic airfreight bags. The short-term contract for this purpose is in place.

The diplomatic bag is protected by diplomatic immunity.

DIRCO makes use of diplomatic bags to dispatch official documents and articles to and from South Africa in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961 and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations of 1963.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Read moreAll systems go for registered South African voters to cast ballots abroad

Unleashing the Power of African Creativity: A Time to Lead with Pride

Location: MyPR

By Raymond Langa, Group Chief Executive of Leagas Delaney South Africa In recent years, the world has witnessed a remarkable shift in the global creative landscape, with African creativity arising as a powerful force to be reckoned with. As statistics and industry reports affirm, it is indeed our time to lead, and we have every …

Read moreUnleashing the Power of African Creativity: A Time to Lead with Pride

Government creates better life during 30 years of democracy

Location: News

Government creates better life during 30 years of democracy

Over the past 30 years government has empowered its citizens by implementing programmes aimed at improving their lives for the better.

As South Africa celebrates 30 years of freedom and democracy, Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Maropene Ramokgopa has reflected on the country’s development journey and applauded government for making significant strides in improving the lives of its people, while navigating challenges that have impacted South Africa's development trajectory.

“Over the three decades, South Africa has faced systemic and contextual challenges that have impacted the country’s development trajectory,” Ramokgopa said.

In 2023, the National Planning Commission (NPC) released the Ten-Year Review of the National Development Plan (NDP). The review reflects on the nation's progress and assesses the key NDP indicators and targets, such as poverty, inequality and unemployment. 

“The NDP set a goal of achieving an annual average of 5.4% GDP growth and aimed to create 11 million jobs. Over the past 30 years, the South African economy has grown and is expected to be Africa’s largest economy in 2024 according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

“Our labour force expanded from 11.3 million in 1994 to 28.3 million in 2023. Due to progressive labour legislation, the race, gender, age, and skills composition of the labour force and employment have altered considerably promoting more inclusive economic development,” the Minister said.

She said government seeks to create an enabling environment for economic growth by addressing obstacles to transformation, innovation, competition and development.

“South Africa's social sector indicates notable progress in education, social wage, and health, with young people benefiting greatly from this progress. The country is moving towards universal access to education at all levels and improved overall educational outcomes.

“More individuals aged 20 and older have attained Grade 12 as their highest level of education, rising from 16% in 1996 to 38% by 2022. In 2002, there were 295 special schools for learners with disabilities. By 2022 there were 489 (435 public and 54 independent),” the Minister said.

The matric pass rate has improved to 82.9% in 2023, from 53.4% in 1995.

“Enrolment in public universities has more than doubled, steadily edging closer to the NDP target of 1.6 million enrolments by 2030. Access to higher education has been bolstered by the establishment of more institutions of higher learning and increased National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding,” the Minister said.

She noted that South Africa's health system has evolved and has led to improved life expectancy and increased access to Primary Health Care (PHC) services from 68 million in 1998 to 138.8 million in 2022/23.

“Furthermore, South Africa’s social wage is one of the most advanced in the world and has proven to be an effective anti-poverty tool. It grew from 2.9 million beneficiaries in 1994 to more than 18 million in 2022. The COVID-19 grant increased reach to 27.6 million beneficiaries. Studies conducted over the two decades have shown that the child support grant is associated with a decline in incidents of poverty,” the Minister said.

She said government has taken steps to address the youth unemployment challenge. 

The Presidential Employment Stimulus has assisted in creating more than 1.7 million work and livelihood opportunities. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 04/30/2024 - 13:08

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Read moreGovernment creates better life during 30 years of democracy

President Ramaphosa Pays Tribute To The Late Dr Sam Motsuenyane

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the passing of black-business pioneer and co-founder of the National African Federated Chamber of Commerce (NAFCOC) Dr Sam Motsuenyane at the age of 97.

President Ramaphosa offers his condolences and those of government to the family, friends and associates of the veteran visionary business leader, farmer and philanthropist.

Dr Motsuenyane was also an Esteemed Member of the National Order of the Baobab (Gold) in recognition of his significant personal achievements – which included leading the establishment of African Bank – and the inspiration and leadership he provided in fostering the development of black-owned businesses and economic liberation more broadly.

He served as a Member of Parliament and as South Africa's first ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

President Ramaphosa said: “The passing of Dr Sam Motsuenyane 60 years after the establishment of NAFCOC is a profound reminder of the breadth, durability and longevity of his vision and passion for self-reliance and development.

“The remarkable sweep of his life as an entrepreneur, leader of organised business, parliamentarian and diplomat among other roles embodied our resilient national character and values of ubuntu.

“His philosophy of self-sufficiency is today entrenched in the constitutional right each of us enjoys to freely choose our trade, occupation or profession and in the socio-economic rights that our constitution safeguards.

“Dr Motsuenyane's passing on the eve of the 2024 National Orders Ceremony causes us to recall the honour bestowed on him in 2002 as the nation paid tribute to an outstanding patriot and source of inspiration for our then fledgling democracy.

“May his soul rest in peace.”

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

Read morePresident Ramaphosa Pays Tribute To The Late Dr Sam Motsuenyane

President Ramaphosa bestows National Orders

Location: News

President Ramaphosa bestows National Orders

President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid homage to the South African citizens and others who received their National Orders today – calling them an invaluable part of South Africa’s history.

The 32 recipients, some posthumously, were honoured and bestowed during a ceremony held at the Sefako M. Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Tshwane on Tuesday.

READ | National Orders: Heroes and heroines receive SA’s highest honour

The prestigious National Orders – the highest awards in South Africa – are the Order of Mendi for Bravery, the Order of Ikhamanga, the Order of the Baobab, the Order of Luthuli, the Order of Mapungubwe and the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo.

“This year marks 30 years since we attained our freedom. This would not have been possible without the bravery, fortitude and noble acts of those the preamble of our Constitution recognises as having suffered for justice and freedom in our land.

“The men and women we honour here today have played an invaluable role in giving birth to the free South Africa that we all enjoy today. Our nation owes each of them a great debt.

“By bestowing these National Orders, we want to ensure that their contributions are recognised and spoken of by generations to come,” President Ramaphosa said.

The awards

The Order of Mendi for Bravery recipients were anti-apartheid activists who received the honour posthumously.

“They lived at a time when apartheid repression was at its zenith, and they displayed the utmost courage. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten and their memories live on,” said President Ramaphosa.

This year, the recipients of The Order of Luthuli was awarded to South Africans who contributed to “the struggle for democracy, human rights, nation-building, justice and peace”.

“Several of the recipients of this year’s Order of Luthuli were brutally killed by the apartheid regime. One of them is Ms Nokuthula Simelane, who was abducted and tortured by the apartheid Security Branch. Her remains were never found.

“This is a wound that will never heal for her family, like the scars of many other South Africans whose loved ones disappeared during the repressive years of apartheid. By honouring those fallen heroes with National Orders we are saying that no matter how great the passage of time, they have not been forgotten,” President Ramaphosa said.

South Africans who excelled in the arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport were honoured with The Order of Ikhamanga.

“In this, the 30th year since we achieved our freedom, we also celebrate the democratic gains we have made in enshrining the principle of a free and independent media.

“Among those being honoured today are legendary journalists who were the voice, words and conscience of an oppressed people during the darkest periods in our history. The standard they set for media ethics and freedom are embodied in today’s generation of journalists and media workers,” the President said.

On the recipients of The Order of the Baobab, President Ramaphosa said: “As we strive to bring about social and economic transformation in South Africa, we are keenly aware of the importance of every endeavour, be it in business, in science or in innovation, being put in the service of social justice for all”.

He praised the recipient of The Order of Mapungubwe who “undertook valuable research in the aerospace field and set a standard that today’s generation of researchers will strive to emulate for time to come”.

The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recognises those who are not from South Africa who stood in solidarity and cooperation with South Africa’s struggle for liberation.

“We honour journalists who helped amplify the voice of the liberation movement abroad, campaigners and fundraisers for the anti-apartheid movement, and activists who played an important role in the sports boycott against the regime,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President hailed the heroism and personal endeavours of this year’s recipients.

“The recipients of the National Orders are chosen by the South African people themselves. It is the South African people who makes nominations for consideration. This is most appropriate because the recipients are the heroes and heroines of the entire nation.

“The truest test of heroism is that these acts are not done for the sake of name, prestige, fortune or fame. They are done out of conscience and an unwavering sense of responsibility. They are born of a burning quest for social justice. They are anchored in the belief that the achievement of equality and human dignity for all is the highest aspiration of humankind.

“Congratulations to all who are being honoured today and to their families. The recipients shall henceforth be honoured as esteemed Members of the Orders. The people of South Africa salute them all,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Tue, 04/30/2024 - 12:39

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