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Africa dominates list of the world’s 20 fastest-growing economies in 2024—African Development Bank says in macroeconomic report

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African Development Bank Group (AfDB)

Report forecasts stronger growth for Africa in 2024, outpacing projected global average; Continent is second-fastest-growing region after Asia.

Africa will account for eleven of the world's 20 fastest-growing economies in 2024, the African Development Bank Group said in its latest Macroeconomic Performance and Outlook (MEO) of the continent released on Friday.

Overall, real gross domestic product (GDP) growth for the continent is expected to average 3.8% and 4.2% in 2024 and 2025, respectively. This is higher than projected global averages of 2.9% and 3.2%, the report said.

The continent is set to remain the second-fastest-growing region after Asia.

The top 11 African countries projected to experience strong economic performance forecast are Niger (11.2%), Senegal (8.2%), Libya (7.9%), Rwanda (7.2%), Cote d'Ivoire (6.8%), Ethiopia (6.7%), Benin (6.4%), Djibouti (6.2%), Tanzania (6.1%), Togo (6%), and Uganda at 6%.

“Despite the challenging global and regional economic environment, 15 African countries have posted output expansions of more than 5%,” Bank Group President Dr Akinwumi Adesina said, calling for larger pools of financing and several policy interventions to further boost Africa's growth.

Africa's Macroeconomic Performance and Outlook, a biannual publication released in the first and third quarters of each year, complements the existing African Economic Outlook (AEO), which focuses on key emerging policy issues relevant to the continent's development.

The MEO report provides an up-to-date evidence-based assessment of the continent's recent macroeconomic performance and short-to-medium-term outlook amid dynamic global economic developments.

The latest report is calling for cautious optimism given the challenges posed by global and regional risks. These risks include rising geopolitical tensions, increased regional conflicts, and political instability—all of which could disrupt trade and investment flows, and perpetuate inflationary pressures.

President Adesina emphasised that fiscal deficits have improved, as faster-than-expected recovery from the pandemic helped shore up revenue.

He explained further: “This has led to a stabilisation of the average fiscal deficit at 4.9% in 2023, like 2022, but significantly less than the 6.9% average fiscal deficit of 2020. The stabilisation is also due to the fiscal consolidation measures, especially in countries with elevated risks of debt distress.”

He cautioned that with the global economy mired in uncertainty, the fiscal positions of the African continent will continue to be vulnerable to global shocks.

The report shows that the medium-term growth outlook for the continent's five regions is slowly improving, a pointer to the continued resilience of Africa's economies.

Presenting the key findings of the report, the African Development Bank's Chief Economist and Vice President, Prof. Kevin Urama said: “Growth in Africa's top-performing economies has benefitted from a range of factors, including declining commodity dependence through economic diversification, increasing stra­tegic investment in key growth sectors, and rising both public and private consumption, as well as positive developments in key export markets.”  

He added: “Africa's economic growth is projected to regain moderate strength as long as the global economy remains resilient, disinflation continues, investment in infrastructure projects remains buoyant, and progress is sustained on debt restructuring and fiscal consolidation.”

“The future of Africa rests on economic integration. Our small economies are not competitive in the global market. A healthy internal African trade market can ensure value-added and intra-African production of manufactured goods,” said Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals, African Union Commission, Ambassador Albert Muchanga.

He assured that the MEO forecast, and recommendations will be made available to African heads of state and that the report will be useful when the African Union makes its proposals to the G20- an informal gathering of many of the world's largest economies to which the African Union was admitted last year.

The improved growth figure for 2024 reflects concerted efforts by the continent's policymakers to drive economic diversification strategies focused on increased investment in key growth sectors, as well as the implementation of domestic policies aimed at consolidating fiscal positions and reversing the increase in the cost of living and boosting private consumption.

Speaking remotely, Zimbabwe's Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Prof Mthuli Ncube described the report as being “on point” and consistent with the reality in his country, describing it as useful for economic planning across Africa. He urged the African Development Bank to continue its thought leadership to help policymakers continue to build resilience to withstand shocks and drive growth.

Ncube said: “Zimbabwe expects slower growth due to climate shocks in the region. Southern African countries depend on agriculture for economic growth, so climate-proofing agriculture is key. We are in talks with creditors to restructure its debt, which is slowing economic growth. Internally, the country will focus on economic and governance reforms and reforms around property rights to increase agricultural production.”

Up to 41 countries across the continent will in 2024, achieve an economic growth rate of 3.8%, and in 13 of them, growth will be more than 1 percentage point higher than in 2023.

Director of the Center for Sustainable Development, Columbia University Prof Jeffrey Sachs noted that long-term affordable financing must be part of Africa's strategy to achieve growth of 7% or more per year and warned that Africa is paying a very high-risk premium for debt financing. He called for this point to be made to the G20.

“Long-term development cannot be based on short-term loans. Loans to Africa should be at least 25 years or longer. Short-term borrowing is dangerous for long-term development. Africa must act as one, in scale,” he explained.

Sachs, who is also the UN Secretary-General António Guterres' Advocate for Sustainable Development Goals also called for a much larger African Development Bank, better resourced to meet Africa's financing needs.

Overview of economic outlook across regions

The confluence of shocks notwithstanding, the resilience of the continent's economies remains strong, with positive growth projected for the continent's five regions.

  • East Africa: East Africa will continue to lead Africa's growth momentum, with growth projected to rise to 5.1% in 2024 and 5.7% in 2025, supported by strong strategic investments to improve internal connectivity and deepen intra-regional trade.
  • North Africa: Successive adverse weather conditions and macroeconomic challenges will hold the region's growth steady at 3.9% in 2024 with a slight improvement to 4.1% in 2025.
  • Central Africa: Growth is forecast to moderate to 3.5% in 2024 but projected recovery in private consumption and increases in mining investment and exports could help push growth to 4.1% in 2025.
  • Southern Africa: Growth will remain sluggish at 2.2 and 2.6% in 2024 and 2025, respectively. This reflects continued economic weakness in South Africa, the region's largest economy.
  • West Africa: Growth is projected to pick up to 4 and 4.4% in 2024 and 2025 respectively. Strong growth in most countries in the region is projected to offset slowdowns in Nigeria and Ghana. The announced withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) casts a shadow over the sustainability of gains amid growing uncertainty.

Driving faster and more sustainable economic growth

The 2024 MEO says in the short term, tackling persistent inflation will need a mix of restraining monetary policy coupled with fiscal consolidation and stable exchange rates.

The report identifies structural reforms and strategic industrial policies as key to accelerating economic diversification and strengthening the export sector.

It recommends that countries invest more in human capital and pursue a resource-based industrialisation and diversification strategy that allows the continent to exploit its comparative advantage and build resilience to shocks.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media Contact:
Emeka Anuforo
Communication and External Relations Department
media@afdb.org

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 34 African countries with an external office in Japan, the AfDB contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org  

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Read moreAfrica dominates list of the world’s 20 fastest-growing economies in 2024—African Development Bank says in macroeconomic report

SA welcomes ICJ injunction to protect civilians in Rafah

Location: News

SA welcomes ICJ injunction to protect civilians in Rafah

South Africa has welcomed an injunction by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to protect civilians in Rafah, Gaza.

This comes after the South African Government urgently appealed to the ICJ to assess Israel's recent declaration to expand its military presence in Rafah, which is the last refuge for surviving people in Gaza.

“The court affirms our view that the perilous situation demands immediate and effective implementation of the provisional measures indicated by the Court in its Order of 26 January 2024, which are applicable throughout the Gaza Strip, and has clarified that this includes Rafah,” the Presidency said on Friday.

Last month, the United Nations (UN) top court ordered Israel to, among others, take all measures within its power “to prevent and punish the direct and public incitement to commit genocide” and to immediately ensure that Palestinians have access to basic services and humanitarian assistance.

The Presidency said the court has accepted that that Israel's planned incursions in Rafah would render what is already a humanitarian disaster even more perilous.

It also accepted that the situation requires compliance with the existing provisional measures and accepted that compliance with the existing provisional measures requires the protection of civilians in Gaza including Rafah.

“The court decision has noted the ‘that the most recent developments in the Gaza Strip, and in Rafah in particular,’ would exponentially increase what is already a humanitarian nightmare with untold regional consequences”, as stated by the United Nations Secretary-General (Remarks to the General Assembly on priorities for 2024 (7 February 2024).

“The court has unequivocally explained that compliance with the existing provisional measures requires Israel to ensure the safety and security of all Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

“Any decision by Israel to engage in military activities against Palestinians in the current circumstances is a violation of the order of the International Court of Justice,” the Presidency said.

The Court states in terms: “The Court emphasises that the State of Israel remains bound to fully comply with its obligations under the Genocide Convention and with the said Order, including by ensuring the safety and security of the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.”

The Presidency said South Africa would continue to use existing channels such as the United Nations Security Council to ensure full and effective implementation of the existing provisional measures. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 02/18/2024 - 11:53

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A’rise By Heineken® Unleashes A Global Musical Explosion At SXSW 2024

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

A’Rise by Heineken® proudly announces a groundbreaking opportunity for three African musical artists to take centre stage at the world-renowned South by Southwest (SXSW) festival. As an advocate for homegrown African talent, A’Rise is committed to propelling these artists onto the global stage, fostering international collaborations, and building a community that transcends borders. A’Rise: A …

Read moreA’rise By Heineken® Unleashes A Global Musical Explosion At SXSW 2024

President to attend opening of National House of Traditional Leaders

Location: News

President to attend opening of National House of Traditional Leaders

President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address at the annual official opening of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders (NHTKL) in the National Council of Provinces chamber in Cape Town.

The event will take place in accordance with Section 33 (1) (b) of the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act, 2019 (Act 3 of 2019), and will mark the official opening of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders.

Distinguished guests are expected to attend the event on Thursday, 22 February 2024. They include Cabinet Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Premiers, and MECs responsible for Traditional Affairs, Kings and EXCO Members of Provincial Houses of Traditional Leaders.

Additional guests include the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (CONTRALESA), Royal Leaders of South Africa (Rolesa), Business Sector, Religious Sector, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and Representatives from Southern African Development Community (SADC) Countries, the National Khoi-San Council, as well as Chapter 9 Institutions. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 02/18/2024 - 12:28

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Protecting Brand Reputation Online

Location: MyPR

In the digital age, a brand’s online reputation has become its most valuable asset. With the vast majority of consumers turning to the internet to inform their purchasing decisions, what’s said about a brand online can significantly impact its success or failure. However, the digital landscape presents a myriad of challenges for brands, including handling …

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President attends AU Heads of State Summit

Location: News

President attends AU Heads of State Summit

President Cyril Ramaphosa is attending the 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union in the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

“The Assembly is expected to discuss the status of peace and security on the continent and the consideration of the report of the AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC). The discussion will take place against the backdrop of great concern regarding the state of peace and security in some parts of the continent,” the Presidency said.

The highlight of the 37th Ordinary Session will be the launch of the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan of the AU’s Agenda 2063: “The Africa we want”. 

Agenda 2063 serves as a fifty-year blueprint for Africa’s socio-economic development and integration, adopted by the African Union (AU) member states after extensive consultations across the continent.

The President is accompanied by a delegation of Ministers comprising of International Relations and Cooperation, Trade, Industry and Competition, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Public Service and Administration, Basic Education and Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.

The AU Assembly is meeting under the theme, “Educate an Africa fit for the 21st Century: Building resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning in Africa.

The summit started on Saturday and will end on Sunday. The AU Assembly was preceded by the 44th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council, which took place on 14, and 15 February 2024.

“South Africa has elevated the implementation of Agenda 2063 as one of the foremost priorities in the advancement of the African agenda. A key flagship project of Agenda 2063 in which South Africa is playing a leading role is the operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (the AfCFTA), that serves as a milestone development in the evolution of the AU," the Presidency said.

South Africa is expected to attend and participate in several high-level committee meetings of the Assembly.

These include the meeting of the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC), which will be held to reaffirm Africa’s position on Climate Change, Presidential Dialogue on Africa's Agenda for Reform of the Global Financial Architecture and a Peace and Security Situation in the Eastern Region of the Democratic Republic of Congo Summit.

The President will present a report on the progress made in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic in Africa in his capacity as the Champion of the AU’s COVID-19 response. –SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Sun, 02/18/2024 - 10:42

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Call for women economic empowerment to conclude GBV

Location: News

Call for women economic empowerment to end GBV

Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Deputy Minister, Nokuzola Tolashe, has called for the socio-economic empowerment of women, youth, and people with disabilities to end gender-based violence (GBV). 

“Socio-economic challenges for women, youth and persons with disabilities remain persistent to this day and it is for the same reason that the department calls for 40% preferential procurement in the public sector,” Tolashe said.

She made the remarks after President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the State of the Nation Address, which highlighted myriad achievements -- while acknowledging the work that is still to be done -- after 30 years of democracy.

Tolashe said South Africa, like many other developing countries, continues to wrestle with the challenges of unemployment and structural economic marginalisation, insufficient skills development, high levels of violence, teenage pregnancies, and substance abuse.

She said these continue to hinder government’s progress in addressing the persistent triple challenge of poverty, unemployment and inequality.

The Deputy Minister said through the mainstreaming of women’s rights and advocacy, the department has over the years been able to coordinate and facilitate interventions to support economic empowerment and economic ownership for women, youth, and people with disabilities. 

The mainstreaming of women’s rights and advocacy include promoting good governance regarding the rights and transformation of social and economic empowerment of women, among others.

“It is important that women, youth, and persons with disabilities, must enjoy equal access to adequate financing to start and scale their businesses, increase their incomes, and contribute to the country’s economy. 

“It is through the department’s strategic outputs that the empowerment of women, youth and persons with disabilities continues to be at the centre of the national economic agenda,” Tolashe said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Fri, 02/16/2024 - 15:02

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Strategic integrated projects

Location: News

Strategic integrated projects

By Nomonde Mnukwa

It is often said that water is life, and this is indeed the case as no life can be sustained without water.  However, very few people give a second thought about the infrastructure required to ensure clean, drinkable water.

In South Africa government is undertaking a massive infrastructure investment and build programme in the form of Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs), which are aimed at improving the quality of life for all South Africans.

Government is working to transform key sectors of our economy such as electricity, rail, ports and telecommunications through infrastructure. We are also working to rebuild and renew infrastructure in critical areas such as student accommodation, social housing water and sanitation.

Our focus on infrastructure is critical to driving economic growth and creating employment, while also ensuring that we can change lives and empower communities.

Over the medium-term the public sector is projected to spend R903 billion on infrastructure and a number of these projects have been completed, while many others are in the construction and procurement phases. In July 2020 a total of 62 Strategic Integrated Projects were gazetted that hold significant value in terms of growing our economy and driving development. These projects are currently being implemented across all three spheres of government, state-owned entities and the private sector.

Infrastructure in its most basic form is about bricks and mortar, but it is so much more than that.  Every new road built enhances mobility and creates economic activity for communities. New schools open up the doors of learning and progress, and new housing developments bring hope and dignity.

The Strategic Integrated Projects are breathing life into many sectors of the economy, including potentially new and game changing ones. South Africa has amassed a pipeline of Green Hydrogen Projects with a value of over R300 billion, which are in project preparation stages. Among these projects, is the Boegoebaai Green Hydrogen in the Northern Cape with a potential to progressively create around 35 000 work opportunities. .

Since the first round of SIPs were gazetted in 2022, an additional 26 have been added, bringing the number of gazetted SIPs to 88. These include infrastructure projects in energy, water and sanitation, transport as well as digital communications infrastructure. The SIPs also cover human settlements, agriculture, and agro-processing.

A number of projects to the value of R21.4 billion have already been completed covering roads, energy and human settlements, while the total value of projects currently in construction is R313.5 billion. A number of projects are also in the procurement stage to the value of  R295.2 billion.

There are various projects that have also been registered in the energy sector which once fully operational will assist in ensuring greater energy security for the country. The energy sector infrastructure project pipeline includes R180 billion of embedded generation investment.

Once all 88 SIPs are concluded there will be a massive increase in energy and water security. They will also further boost our Fourth Industrial Revolution ambitions and capabilities, while also ensuring that we provide homes, accommodation and revitalise the agricultural value chain.

Our investment in infrastructure is turning bricks and mortar into hope for a better tomorrow for all.  It is creating new frontiers of growth and progress and will ultimately ensure that we create the South Africa we want.

*Nomonde Mnukwa is Acting Director-General of the GCIS

Janine
Fri, 02/16/2024 - 14:53

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OnlineTenders Redefines Procurement with Solutions for Tender Information Gaps and Tight Deadlines

Location: MyPR

In South Africa, there’s been growing concern about government organisations publishing tenders and RFQs with tight deadlines. This trend, while indicative of a dynamic economic environment, poses significant challenges for businesses seeking to participate in these opportunities. It raises questions about the feasibility and fairness of the tendering process. Ultimately, strategic solutions and proactive engagement …

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Beach safety tips to follow on your KZN South Coast breakaway

Location: MyPR

With these warm, sunny days, there’s no better place to head than the beautiful KZN South Coast beaches. For visitors planning a well-deserved breakaway, South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) has shared some important beach safety tips to follow. As a top adventure destination with family-friendly offerings, the KZN South Coast is fortunate to …

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Raising Apt Men Is The Only Way To Finish GBV – Policing Is Not Enough!

Location: MyPR

In the aftermath of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address (SoNA), a non-profit company (NPC) working to encourage positive masculinity, Father A Nation, highlights that while strides have been made in combatting gender-based violence (GBV), a glaring deficiency in the 2024 SoNA was the lack of focus on prevention. “President Ramaphosa’s acknowledgment of …

Read moreRaising Apt Men Is The Only Way To Finish GBV – Policing Is Not Enough!

President Ramaphosa hails democracy’s role in uplifting youth

Location: News

President Ramaphosa hails democracy's role in uplifting youth

President Cyril Ramaphosa says individuals born after the advent of democracy embody the essence of Tintswalo, as they have gone on to record commendable achievements in their lives and careers.

The President was responding to this week’s two-day debate on his State of the Nation Address (SONA) by Members of Parliament. The SONA was delivered a week ago in Cape Town.

A number of young people, who have benefited from government over the last 30 years, were present in the National Assembly to listen to the President’s response to the debate. 

READ | Tintswalo, a child of democracy

“Today I am really honoured to have a number of Tinstwalos who have come to join us. Among these young people are aeronautical engineers, pilots, civil engineers, police officers, doctors, and a naval captain. They are qualified in a number of ways, all of whom have pursued their careers with the support of government departments and entities.

In his State of the Nation Address last week, President Ramaphosa introduced South Africa to Tintswalo, a child of  democracy.

He said that for millions of South Africans, Tintswalo's story resonated deeply with their own, which prompted young people to post images online of themselves in their graduation gowns or at their workplaces, saying "#IamTintswalo". 

“There are countless stories of young people who were born into abject poverty, but are now engineers, doctors, teachers, managers, tourism guides and operators, and entrepreneurs, thanks to the support and opportunities provided to them under democracy.

“They have spoken not only of how democracy has improved their lives, but of their gratitude to those who fought and strived to achieve that democracy. Many have paid tribute to their parents and grandparents – and to all the generations that came before – for the struggle and sacrifice that brought down apartheid and ushered in a new era of freedom,” he said. 

Responding to those who greeted Tintswalo’s story with derision, the President said that these were people who sought to diminish the achievements of democracy.

"To them, it doesn’t matter that nine out of 10 households are now living in a formal dwelling, or that a similar number has access to clean drinking water and electricity.

“To them, it doesn’t matter that more South African adults have completed matric or earned a degree, or that more learners from poor communities are achieving Bachelor passes. It doesn’t matter to these people that South Africans now have a higher life expectancy or that maternal and child health have improved dramatically.

“It doesn’t matter to them that millions of people have been lifted out of poverty through the provision of houses, land, social grants, free basic services, expanded access to health care and education and the introduction of a national minimum wage.

"All of these great achievements of human development do not matter to them, because Tintswalo doesn’t matter to them. They are prepared to dismiss all of this progress because it does not serve their narrative of a failed nation. It does not serve their political aspirations. It does not serve their narrow interests." 

The President said the journey to a brighter future continues. “We have travelled far and we have achieved much, but we have much further to go. We are clear about the progress that we have made, the challenges that we face, and the actions that we must now take,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Fri, 02/16/2024 - 10:03

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SA records an increase in research and development expenditure after COVID-19

Location: News

SA records an increase in research and development expenditure after COVID-19

Gross domestic expenditure on research and development (GERD) has increased in real terms for the first time in four years.

GERD as a percentage of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reached 0.62% in 2021/22, up from 0.60% in the previous year, indicating a slight improvement in research and development (R&D) intensity.

This represents a 6.9% year-on-year increase from R25.965 billion in 2020/21 to R27.756 billion in 2021/22, in terms of 2015 prices.

This is according to the latest South African National Survey of Research and Experimental Development.

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) conducts an annual survey for Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators (CeSTII) on behalf of the Department of Science and Technology.

Chief Research Specialist and Principal Investigator at the HSRC, Dr Nazeem Mustapha, observed that countries that invest in research and development (R&D) at a high intensity are more likely to lead in global competitiveness.

“South Africa is striving to reach higher levels of R&D intensity by increasing expenditure on R&D, which in turn can lead to new industries and boosting of existing ones, job creation, increased productivity, and sustained economic growth,” Mustapha said. 

GERD encompasses all spending on R&D on national territory in a given year and includes domestically performed research and development, which is funded from abroad but excludes funds paid abroad, such as to international agencies. 

Key indicators highlight positive economic growth in South Africa for the period under review. 

According to Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), South Africa’s GDP increased by 4.7% in 2021/22 after a 6% decline during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020/21.

“The growth in R&D expenditure is reassuring, although this comes off a very low base. The previous year’s decline in growth represented the biggest fall in R&D expenditure in the 20 years that the HSRC has been conducting the survey. We expect the next survey’s result to provide us with a better sense of what the trend is,” Mustapha added. 

Data shows that R&D expenditure, funding and personnel movements’ nominal R&D expenditure rose across all five institutional sectors. 

Funding

The study identified the R3.480 billion increase in business sector R&D expenditure as the main contributor to the increase in GERD. 

The higher education sector increased R&D expenditure by R446 million, the government sector increased by R235 million and the not-for-profit sector increased R&D expenditure by R31 million. 

The government remains the largest funder of R&D, accounting for 52.5% of total funding, followed by business (29%) and foreign sources (14.5%). 

Meanwhile, foreign funding has increased significantly over the past decade, with most investments directed towards higher education and business sectors. 

Personnel

R&D staff increased by 2 857 individuals (3.5% year-on-year) in 2021/22, including 1 716 researchers (a 2.8% increase).

Notably, state-owned enterprises (SOEs) increased their R&D expenditure, with R&D personnel numbers rising in various sectors. 

Enterprises in the business sector employed 917 new R&D personnel, which includes technicians as well as researchers, however shed 140 researchers. 

R&D personnel increased by 1 657 in the higher education sector, 155 in the government sector, and 79 in the science councils’ sector. 

The non-profit sector recorded an increase in the R&D personnel headcount of 49. 

In 2021/22, 1.9 full-time equivalent researchers were employed for every 1 000 R&D workers, an increase of 0.1%. 

Gender

The ratio of female researchers as a percentage of total researchers rose by 0.4 percentage points to 47%. 

Key sectors

R&D activity has increased in the manufacturing and financial services sectors, which drive most R&D expenditure.

Meanwhile, medical and health sciences, along with social sciences, continue to receive the highest R&D expenditure, at 22.8% and 18.4% respectively. 

The field of research with the third-highest R&D expenditure in South Africa is information, computer, and communication technology (13.1%), which surpasses the engineering sciences field (11.7%), while growth in social sciences is stagnant. 

“A longitudinal analysis of shifts in the proportions of researchers and technicians, as well as the overall movement of R&D personnel, is of value,” said Dr Glenda Kruss, Executive Head of the HSRC Centre for Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators (CeSTII). 

She said such analysis, which is now possible with time series data covering the past two decades, can inform future investments to grow skills and capabilities for the national system of innovation. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 02/16/2024 - 10:48

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Ten tips for aspiring entrepreneurs to avoid being fragment of the failure rate

Location: MyPR

By Mitchan Adams, founder of Venture Builder, Aions Creative Technology In South Africa, there are more than two million small, micro, and medium enterprises (SMMEs), which represent more than 98% of formal business, and employ 50-60% of our labour force and contribute 34% towards GDP. But – South Africa has the world’s highest failure rate …

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Citizens urged to reflect on 30 years of freedom

Location: News

Citizens urged to reflect on 30 years of freedom

As South Africa marks 30 Years of Freedom, citizens have been urged to remember how far government has come in improving the lives of South Africans and undoing the damaging legacy of apartheid.

“As we mark 30 Years of Freedom, we must not exercise our reflections and recollections without remembering exactly where we’ve come from or without acknowledging what has confronted us as a society in our journey to here,” Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said in Cape Town.

Addressing a joint debate on the State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Wednesday, the Minister said despite the global economic meltdown of 2007 and 2008 as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, government has continued to provide economic opportunities for citizens.

“Tintswalo or the Black Diamonds as they are generally referred to or the national breadwinners as they called themselves during the COVID19 vaccination period, continue to lead the installation of digital connectivity in deep-rural KwaZulu-Natal and other provinces. They work as young black and women engineers at our power stations,” the Minister said.

She said government has also provided opportunities for young people to work side by side to create a sovereign launch capability that has allowed the country to take satellite technologies into space and they are the bedrock of the more than 10 000 small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) that are suppliers to the National School Nutrition Programme.

The Minister said that young people are the engineers and contractors behind the more than 750 000 km road network from 525 000 km in 1995.

“Yes, some of the provincial and municipal roads have potholes but we are intervening. Currently South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has taken over 2 600 km of roads transferred from provinces so we can use its road construction and maintenance capacity to deliver better roads and with more under consideration,” she said.

She added that in the past five-years, SANRAL has executed projects to the value of R120 billion, which translated to just under 45 000 job opportunities and the participation of almost 6500 black owned SMMEs.

“Just this January, SANRAL announced another R28 billion injection into the industry with the implementation of over 70 projects. SANRAL’s work to improve the country’s road network is complemented by Operation Valazonke aimed at closing potholes on municipal roads across all municipalities. We are aware that some municipalities are progressing faster than others,” Ntshavheni said.

Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa

The Minister affirmed that work is underway to rebuild the network industries to ensure it services the country more effectively.

“Despite the teething challenges, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has restored operations on 26 out of 40 commuter rail corridors following disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the criminality that vandalised our rail infrastructure.

“Of these restored service lines, 19 of them are operated with the new trains. PRASA has received 184 new trains that have been built in Nigel, Ekurhuleni. In addition, 276 Metrorail coaches have been upgraded or refurbished, 97 train stations have been refurbished, and 29 cooperatives are responsible for cleaning and basic maintenance of these stations.

“Through the capital spend, PRASA created more than 46 000 job opportunities. Even Transnet is starting to register a turn-around at its operations with the arrival of critical equipment, irrespective of the weather – those containers can be loaded and offloaded at the harbour.”

Promoting public employment

She noted that eight consecutive Quarterly Labour Force surveys have indicated an improvement in the unemployment situation in the country – with 16.7 million people in employment by the end of the third quarter of 2023 – the first to surpass the pre-COVID-19 employment levels.

“Although six million youth are now in employment, the challenge of youth unemployment like the world over remains. It is for that reason that President [Cyril] Ramaphosa led the establishment of initiatives like the Youth Employment Service (YES) in partnership with private-sector partners.

“YES has created over 130 000 work experiences for young people to date. Over 1.7 million work and livelihood opportunities for unemployed South Africans have been created through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which prioritised predominantly youth and women.”

Key achievements in the stimulus include:

  • Employing 1.1 million education and general assistants in 23 000 schools.
  • Providing production input vouchers to 180 000 small-scale farmers.
  • Providing 29 000 opportunities in environmental management and rehabilitation.
  • Employing 107 000 people across 6 500 worksites through the Social Employment Fund.

“The SA Youth Mobi platform was launched, which provides pathways for young people to employment, learning and youth enterprise. To date, over 4.8 million young people have registered on the platform and more than one million have been placed in earning opportunities.

“The National Youth Service has been revitalised, offering young people opportunities to undertake work that builds the community and provides them with skills, self-confidence and work experience. Over 47 000 participants were placed in the first phase of the National Youth Service,” the Minister said.

She said all these achievements have been made possible by South Africans who consider it their duty to be part of transforming the country and undoing the damaging legacy of apartheid.

“The work done during the sixth administration and 30 years under the democratic dispensation is to ensure we leave no-one behind, despite the hand this President’s tenure was dealt,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 09:12

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Read moreCitizens urged to reflect on 30 years of freedom

Challenges remain, but South African lives believe been improved during democracy

Location: News

Challenges remain, but South African lives have been improved during democracy

President Cyril Ramaphosa says despite challenges, the lives of millions of South Africans have been transformed since the dawn of democracy in 1994.

The President was delivering his reply to the State of the Nation Address (SONA) debate held at the Cape Town City Hall.

“The debate in this House over the last two days has shown that there are sharp differences among political parties about our past. There are also sharp differences about our present and indeed about our future as well.

“Yet amongst all the contributions made in the debate, no speaker has been able to refute a fundamental reality that the lives of millions of South Africans have been transformed over the 30 years of freedom. This is the reality… whether we like it, or we don’t like it, that is the reality we confront,” he said on Thursday.

The President said the transformation of South African lives can be found in the recent national census conducted by Statistics South Africa, which shows “extraordinary improvements on a range of social and economic indicators over the past three decades”.

“This transformation is most evident in the lived experience of our people, who have witnessed the changes in their own communities and who have also witnessed the changes in their own personal lives,” he said.

Facing challenges

President Ramaphosa acknowledged that although progress has been made, there are critical issues that need to be addressed with urgency.

“We need to celebrate the fact that young people… have had the opportunities that were never available before. But we also need to recognise, as we did in the [SONA] that young people… still have many challenges.

“Despite everything we have achieved, many South Africans, young and old, are concerned about the state of affairs in our nation, and rightly so. Many people cannot find jobs. Even people with jobs wonder if they will be able to provide for their families as the cost of living increases,” he said.

The President further acknowledged other challenges, including crime, load shedding, corruption and municipalities that are struggling to deliver services. He said the sixth administration is hard at work to resolve these issues.

He listed gains that government has made in sectors, including in the economy, tourism and the agricultural sectors as measures of progress

“Over the last five years, we have made significant progress in restoring our economy to grow and create jobs. When COVID hit, our economy tanked and just to demonstrate the resilience of our economy, it bounced back and now it is above the pre-COVID period.

“We have seen the results of these efforts in the growth of our agricultural exports. In 2022, South Africa’s agricultural exports reached a record $12.8 billion or R247 billion and we are the top food secure country on our continent.

“We have seen a massive increase in international tourists coming to our country. Between January and December last year, our country recorded 8.5 million international tourist arrivals, which was a 29% increase on the previous year,” he said.

He assured the country that government will remain steadfast in its quest to “build a better life for all of democracy’s children”.

“As a nation, we continue to write the story of Tintswalo. Through our collective actions, through our sheer determination, we will ensure that all the Tintswalos of this country, together with their parents and grandparents, overcome the many challenges of the present.

READ | Tintswalo, a child of democracy

“It is by working together that we will continue to write the story of our free nation and of a future of peace, comfort and prosperity for all,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 15:40

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Read moreChallenges remain, but South African lives believe been improved during democracy

Five recent teams, three recent countries to compete in 2024 Basketball Africa League season tipping off on March 9 in South Africa

Location: Sport
Basketball Africa League (BAL)

Defending BAL Champion Al Ahly (Egypt) Among Seven Teams That Have Competed in the BAL (https://BAL.NBA.com/) Before, Alongside First-Time Participants from Burundi, Central African Republic, Libya, Morocco and Rwanda. Season will Tip Off with First-Ever BAL Game in South Africa Featuring 2022 Runner-Up Petro de Luanda (Angola) Taking on First-Time BAL Participant FUS Rabat Basketball (Morocco) at SunBet Arena in Pretoria at 4:00 p.m. CAT. Tickets on Sale Now at BAL.NBA.com (https://apo-opa.co/49CJjBQ), Ticketmaster.co.za (https://apo-opa.co/4bBotol) (Pretoria, South Africa) and Teewtickets.com (https://apo-opa.co/49yd8Uc) (Dakar, Senegal); Fans Can Save Up to 35% On Group Packages.

The Basketball Africa League (BAL) today announced that five new teams and three new countries are among the 12 club teams from 12 African countries that will compete in the 2024 BAL season (https://apo-opa.co/42IkW3v), which will tip off on Saturday, March 9 at SunBet Arena in Pretoria, South Africa.  The fourth BAL season will feature a record 48 games in Pretoria; Cairo, Egypt; Dakar, Senegal; and Kigali, Rwanda, marking the first BAL games in South Africa and the first time the league will play games in four different countries.

The 12 teams have been divided into three conferences of four teams each.  Seven of the teams have competed in the BAL before, two of which – Petro de Luanda (Angola) and US Monastir (Tunisia) – will be competing for a record fourth season.  Five teams are making their BAL debut, including the first BAL teams from Burundi, Central African Republic and Libya

 KALAHARI

     NILE

                SAHARA

Cape Town Tigers (South Africa)

Al Ahly (Egypt)

Armée Patriotique Rwandaise Basketball (APR; Rwanda)*

Dynamo Basketball Club (Burundi)*

Al Ahly Ly (Libya)*

AS Douanes (Senegal)

FUS Rabat Basketball (Morocco)*

Bangui Sporting Club (Central African Republic)*

Rivers Hoopers (Nigeria)

Petro de Luanda (Angola)

City Oilers (Uganda)

US Monastir (Tunisia)

*First-time BAL participant

Each conference will play a 12-game group phase during which each team will face the other three teams in its conference twice.  New this season, the home team in each market will play on every gameday, including on the weekends.  The inaugural Kalahari Conference group phase will take place from Saturday, March 9 – Sunday, March 17 at the SunBet Arena.  The Nile Conference group phase will take place from Friday, April 19 – Saturday, April 27 at Hassan Mostafa Indoor Sports Complex in Cairo.  The Sahara Conference group phase will take place from Saturday, May 4 – Sunday, May 12 at the Dakar Arena in Dakar.  The top two teams from each conference and the top two third-place teams from across the three conferences will travel to BK Arena in Kigali for four seeding games followed by an eight-game, single-elimination Playoffs and Finals from Friday, May 24 – Saturday, June 1.  

In the season opener, first-time BAL participant FUS Rabat Basketball (Morocco) will face Petro de Luanda at 4:00 p.m. CAT.  In the second game, home team Cape Town Tigers (South Africa) will take on first-time BAL participant Dynamo Basketball Club (Burundi) at 7:00 p.m. CAT.  On the opening day of the Nile Conference, home team Al Ahly (Egypt) will begin its title defense against two-time BAL participant City Oilers (Uganda) at 5:00 p.m. GMT.  The complete game schedule is available at BAL.NBA.com (https://apo-opa.co/3uClvzq).

Tickets for the Kalahari Conference group phase in Pretoria and the Sahara Conference group phase in Dakar are on sale now at BAL.NBA.com (https://apo-opa.co/3HZz0vV), Ticketmaster.co.za (https://apo-opa.co/3uDzIvR) (Pretoria) and Teewtickets.com (https://apo-opa.co/48j6vUR) (Dakar).  Single game tickets start at 75 ZAR for the Kalahari Conference group phase and 2,500 XOF for the Sahara Conference group phase.  Fans can save up to 35% off single game ticket prices for group packages by emailing BalTickets@thebal.com, and up to 20% off single game ticket prices for all games during the Sahara Conference group phase by selecting two, four or all games.  Fans who purchase tickets will also have free access to BAL Fan Zones at the arena in each market.  Ticket sales information for the Nile Conference group phase in Cairo and the Playoffs and Finals Kigali will be announced at a later date. 

Champions from the national leagues in Angola, Egypt, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal and Tunisia earned their participation in the 2024 BAL season by winning their respective national leagues.  The remaining six teams, which come from Burundi, Central African Republic, Libya, Morocco, South Africa and Uganda, secured their participation through the Road to the BAL qualifying tournaments (https://apo-opa.co/49Au50l) conducted by FIBA Africa across the continent from October to November 2023.

Rwanda Development Board, NIKE, Jordan Brand and Wilson will return as BAL Foundational Partners.  The league's roster of world-class marketing partners also includes Afreximbank, Hennessy and RwandAir.

Additional information about the 2024 BAL season will be announced in the coming weeks.

BAL Season 4 announcement video (https://apo-opa.co/48gFVf6) (Credit: Basketball Africa League)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Basketball Africa League (BAL).

Contact:
Edwin Eselem
Basketball Africa League
+221 78 615 42 87
EEselem@theBAL.com

About the BAL:
The Basketball Africa League (BAL), a partnership between the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and NBA Africa, is a professional league featuring 12 club teams from across Africa that will tip off its fourth season in March 2024.  Headquartered in Dakar, Senegal, the BAL builds on the foundation of club competitions FIBA Africa has organized across the continent and marks the NBA's first collaboration to operate a league outside North America.  Fans can follow the BAL (@theBAL) on Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3TQoHlc), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3TNa7e0), X (https://apo-opa.co/3OKg9ci), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3twvshm) and register their interest in receiving more information at BAL.NBA.com (https://apo-opa.co/3HE6GiI).

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Read moreFive recent teams, three recent countries to compete in 2024 Basketball Africa League season tipping off on March 9 in South Africa

Early detection crucial for treatment of childhood cancer

Location: News

Early detection crucial for treatment of childhood cancer

The Department of Health has encouraged healthcare workers and communities to be mindful of early signs of childhood cancer.

Identifying these signs, according to the department, can lead to early detection and the successful management of childhood cancers, resulting in better outcomes.

The call was made as South Africa joins the global community in commemorating International Childhood Cancer Day on Thursday to raise awareness about childhood cancers and to express support for children and adolescents living with cancer, survivors, and their families.

The day is observed on 15 February annually to highlight the vital role of community engagement and support in addressing the complexities associated with childhood and adolescent cancer.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), more than 1 000 children are diagnosed with cancer every day around the globe.  

Meanwhile, it is estimated that 1 000 new cases of child cancer are recorded annually by the South African Children’s Tumour Registry (SACTR), but many are missed and do not receive treatment.

“Parents, educators, general practitioners and paediatricians play a crucial role in early detection of childhood cancers,” the department explained. 

According to the department, knowing the early signs of childhood cancers is important.

These include a white spot in the eye or sudden blindness, a lump on any place on the body mostly on the stomach, unexplained fever or weight loss, aching bones and easy fractures, and a change in walk and headache with or without vomiting.

The common childhood cancers in South Africa are leukaemia, lymphoma, brain tumours, eye and kidney tumours.

The department in collaboration with the South African Association of Paediatric Haematology of Oncology (SAAPHO), WHO and CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA acknowledge and commend the significant contributions made by various stakeholders, including the medical community, civil society, parent groups, non-governmental organisations and individual members of society.

CHOC CEO, Hedley Lewis, said these contributions support children and adolescents with cancer, survivors, and their families. 

“Cancer impacts negatively on siblings and other family members. The challenges these families face extend beyond medical treatment, encompassing emotional, physical and social, financial, educational, and long-term health effects,” she explained. 

According to the Chair of the South African Association of Paediatric Haematology Oncology, Professor Gita Naidu, there is a need to raise primary health care and community awareness of Siluan’s early warning signs of childhood cancers especially among parents, caregivers and educators.

“Early diagnosis and swift referral to treating centres is imperative to improve the outcomes of this dreaded disease. Childhood cancer is curable, but only if diagnosed and treated timeously,” Naidu added.

The WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC), launched in 2018, aims to improve the overall survival to 60% globally by 2030 and allow these children and adolescents to live and die without pain and suffering. 

“South Africa remains committed to focusing on childhood cancer and is aligned with the WHO-GICC goals.” 

The statement stated that SAAPHO and CHOC are hosting SIOP Africa in Johannesburg from 4 to 8 June 2024. 

The conference is an opportunity to share knowledge, collaborate, and engage with stakeholders nationally, on the continent and globally to improve the lives of children and adolescents with cancer. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 13:37

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Read moreEarly detection crucial for treatment of childhood cancer

Sixth administration cracking down on crime – Lamola

Location: News

Sixth administration cracking down on crime - Lamola

Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola says the sixth administration is steadily rebuilding law enforcement agencies like the National Prosecuting Authority to fight crime.

Lamola was speaking during the debate of the State of the Nation Address held in Cape Town.

“[It] is the sixth administration that strengthened the work of law enforcement agencies like the NPA [National Prosecuting Authority] by appointing permanent leadership in the upper echelons of the NPA and the SAPS [South African Police Service] and increased the operational budget resulting in visible institutional growth and stability.

“Organized crime verdicts have increased by 21% from 193 to 234 at a conviction rate that is above 80%. Gang leaders are behind bars or in court, whether it is Jerome Booysen, Nafik Modak, Ralph Stanfield, Mark Lifman and Vusi Khekhe, all are behind bars.

“The conviction rate in gender-based violence and femicide matters is at 74.6%. When it comes to successful prosecutions for cable theft matters, the NPA has exceeded some of the targets, the conviction rate is well above 85%, 299 convictions have been obtained from 347 cable theft verdicts,” Lamola said.

The Minister added that R3.2 billion from the criminal assets recovery funds has been allocated to fighting illegal mining and organised crime.

Furthermore, 2 996 arrests have been executed related to illegal mining activities as at December last year.

“SAPS is implementing Operation Shanela, a comprehensive plan to combat crime throughout the country. The plan includes clamping down on illegal mining areas.

“At the end of last year, the Asset Forfeiture Unit, Special Investigation Units and the Hawks have secured preservation orders to freeze assets which are proceeds of unlawful activities of a syndicate dealing in unwrought gold in Gauteng province.

“The frozen assets include 51 properties with a value of more than R16 million. In Mpumalanga, they secured a preservation order of assets worth more than one billion rands. The message is clear, crime does not pay and the tide against crime is turning,” Lamola said.

‘I am Tintswalo’

Harking back to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s SONA last week in which he described the life of Tintswalo, Lamola described how he himself is a product of progressive government policies.

He recalled how he benefitted from the Tertiary Education Fund of South Africa (TEFSA), now known as the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), after his parents who were both farmworkers could not afford his tertiary education.

“I can stand here in this house [and say] with great conviction that had it not been for …government’s expansion of TEFSA and my sister paying for my university registration and monthly stipend, I would not be standing here today.

“I would not have been an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa having appeared in the highest Court in the world, the ICJ, on global affairs. My life was predestined as a farm worker [by] design by the apartheid government and not by choice.

“The village where I come from, Cunningmore B in Mpumalanga, had no electricity nor running water. Today there is electricity, running water and tarred roads, so are many villages across the country.

“[NSFAS]…results are tangible. You can touch them with your bare hands,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 09:59

338 views
Read moreSixth administration cracking down on crime – Lamola

Is a Mammogram Painful. Debunking the Myth

Location: MyPR

Introduction Mammograms are a crucial tool in the early detection of breast cancer, and they have saved countless lives by identifying abnormalities in breast tissue. However, the fear of pain associated with mammograms often deters many women from scheduling these potentially life-saving screenings. In this blog, we aim to debunk the myth surrounding mammogram pain and …

Read moreIs a Mammogram Painful. Debunking the Myth