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It’s time for Africa!

Location: News

It’s time for Africa!

By Saadia Moola

The official launch of South Africa’s first shipment and preferential trading under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) on 31 January 2024, at the Port of Durban goes beyond a feather in the cap for trade and economic growth. It signals the unyielding African spirit which has prevailed against the injustices that plagued our continent, including colonialism and apartheid.

Our liberation from these wrongs took the strength of all African nations and together we proved that we could overcome insurmountable obstacles to create a brighter future for the continent.

Despite the devastation over centuries, we have redefined Africa as a continental force and transformed our nation states to be independent. We have preserved our unique African heritage and identities, and capitalised on our strengths as we develop our nations.

The African Union (AU) serves as the mantra for the development of African nations. Formerly known as the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), the unified vision for a better future for all Africans began on 25 May 1963, when leaders of African countries joined forces to form the OAU, to advance democracy and African development.

Founded on the principles of freedom, equality, justice, and dignity, it strived to end the legacy of suffering, political instability and injustice for all Africans.

“We all want a united Africa, united not only in our concept of what unity connotes, but united in our common desire to move forward together in dealing with all the problems that can best be solved only on a continental basis”. These were the sentiments of Kwame Nkrumah, first prime minister of Ghana and Pan African Leader who contributed to the formation of the OAU.

To prioritise the acceleration of African economic growth through increased cooperation and integration of African states, the OAU was relaunched as the African Union (AU) during 2002.

Since its formation, the AU has sought to protect the independence of African states and ensure their development, playing a critical role in steering the continent through the unprecedented challenge of COVID-19.

While we have much to celebrate as a continent, we remain cognisant that much still needs to be done to better Africa. This includes finding amicable solutions to conflicts that continue to plague certain parts of the continent.

Commitment to political dialogue with a view to sustainable peace and stability is a critical lever in solving the challenges in Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Libya, Mali and the Sahel, Somalia, Sudan and Western Sahara.

Together we can harness our collective energies and resources ensure to take our continent closer to the ultimate vision of being free of poverty and conflict. The AU’s flagship project of Agenda 2063, is a roadmap to our development over the next 50 years. This project prioritises African goals, including; equality, intra-regional trade, infrastructure and technology development.

The African Continental Free Trade Area is in line with Agenda 2063, which is aimed at deepening African economic integration.

Strong partnerships among African nations for inclusive socio-economic development is key to advancing the African Agenda. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) also presents opportunities for massive financial growth in Africa.

The AFCFTA is the world’s largest trade area which holds the potential to boost intra-African trade by over 50 percent and inject approximately $450 billion worth of investments into the African economy to help uplift 50 to 100 million people out of poverty by 2035.

By harnessing the strengths of all 55 nations on the continent, we will recover, become stronger and ensure African nations take their rightful place in the world. According to the African Development Bank, Africa’s economies remain resilient and Africa’s GDP is expected to stabilise in 2023-2024.

South Africa remains committed to Africa’s advancement and as the most industrialised economy on the continent we are actively working to facilitating intra-Africa trade through exports, enhancing skills development, foreign direct investment and international cooperation.

A thriving African economy requires developed infrastructure to facilitate trade globally. South Africa is working to improve its rail and port efficiencies to drive economic growth and enable further economic opportunities across the continent.

We are also closely working with international organisations to grow investment, industrialisation and innovation across Africa. Our future is intrinsically linked to the continent, and we are aware that Africa’s growth will spur-on our own growth and bolster us to address the triple challenge of poverty, inequality and unemployment.

Let us all come together and play an active role in advancing Africa. Let us go beyond the dedicated Africa Month (May) to claiming the 21st century as the era for Africa’s revival and renewal!

Saadia Moola is a Director at the Government Communication and Information System

Neo
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 10:14

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Infrastructure development

Location: News

Infrastructure development

By David Jacobs

Investments in infrastructure made today are an investment in a nation’s future success. It enhances mobility and accessibility, facilitates enhanced trade, overall economic productivity and boosts a country’s wellbeing.

In understanding this crucial interplay, government launched its infrastructure investment programme in mid-2020 to build critical network infrastructure such as ports, roads and rail across the country.

These infrastructure projects have been steadily gaining momentum, turning many parts of the country into construction zones. One such project is the N2 and N3 Upgrade Programme which is expanding the capacity of our national highways in Kwa-Zulu Natal

It includes the ground breaking R2.4bn Ashburton Interchange Project in the Msunduzi Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, which will see additional lanes being constructed. This section of highway has been hamstrung by chronic traffic congestion that prevents the quick movement of freight.

With more than 60 percent of goods transported through this corridor, the road is a key economic artery for the movement of goods from the Port of Durban, the largest port in Sub-Saharan Africa, to the rest of South Africa and the continent.

We see this project as central to our country’s competitiveness and to the growth of the economy. Through the smooth movement of goods and services across our economy, we can enhance efficiencies, attract investment and boost job creation.

Importantly, the upgrades will not only reduce the overall travel time for road freight transport but also ensure increased safety for all road users.

Government has placed infrastructure development at the heart of our country’s economic recovery plan because it is widely known that infrastructure has a powerful multiplier effect on restoring economic growth, creating new jobs and protecting livelihoods.

Through the Ashburton Interchange Project, we have created a number of direct jobs and indirect jobs for surrounding communities. The project is also helping draw more young people into the productive sectors of the economy through training and learnerships.

The Ashburton Interchange Project adds to other projects already at an advanced stage of construction on the N3, such as the widening a section of the Camperdown Interchange and the road upgrade between Dardanelles and Lynnfield Park in Kwa-Zulu Natal.

Another major highway upgrade being undertaken at an investment of over R 10 Billion is the N2 Wild Coast road project which connects the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga.

Once completed, the route will shorten travel times, making it 1,5 hours faster for light vehicles and 3 hours faster heavy freight transport. This will significantly reduce vehicle carbon emissions and the time-cost saving to motorists and freight operators will be approximately R1.5 billion per annum.

The project will also see the construction of the highest bridges on the African continent with the R1.65 billion cable-stay Msikaba Bridge.  The bridge will be 580m in length and be 195m high, showcasing our country’s engineering excellence.

Infrastructure projects similar to these road transport projects are being prepared and packaged for investors by Infrastructure South Africa (ISA). ISA is also driving project preparation to enhance transparency and eliminate key risks at the earliest possible time.

Our logistics infrastructure investments also extend to our nation’s ports as we address slow turnaround times. Following an internal diagnostic review by Transnet, there are plans to invest R160 billion to address the infrastructure.  

It includes procuring 16 gantry cranes and acquisition of four ship-to-shore cranes to address slow turnaround times affecting the docking and offloading of containers at the port. Transnet also plans to deepen and lengthen two berths at its Durban Container Terminal Pier 2 which handles about 65 percent of the country’s containerised cargo as part of efforts to ease backlogs.

Government is addressing concerns of corruption and maladministration in the construction industry through our anti-corruption strategy designed specifically for the sector. It sets out to detect and prevent corruption and we are working closely with the Special Investigating Unit to execute the strategy.

As we gather pace on our infrastructure development, we are certain to see the benefits in our economy and on jobs. Through our investments in infrastructure we are setting the foundation for a much brighter future.

David Jacobs is Chief Director: Cluster Communication at Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)

 

 

Neo
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 09:53

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Canon Student Development Programme 2024 to open for entries this month

Location: News
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA)

Up to 100 students to receive mentorship from industry experts representing established news agencies and news publications, as well as Canon Ambassadors (www.Canon-CNA.com); A shortlist of 25 students will be invited to take part in a four-day workshop in Girona, including a visit to Visa pour l'Image, where they can form new connections with professionals and peers; Applications are being accepted between 12th February and 7th March to students across Europe, Middle East and Africai.

Canon Europe announces the call for entries for the eighth edition of the Canon Student Development Programme (CSDP), a prestigious annual programme designed to help aspiring photojournalists advance their careers. The industry-leading initiative offers access and exposure to experienced professionals from the photographic community and the opportunity to attend key industry events.

CSDP has established itself as an invaluable springboard to the next generation of photojournalists. Former alumni have gone on to work for reputable news agencies and internationally renowned publications and continued to build successful careers. 2022 alumni Mohamed Mahdy (b. 1996), whose work focusses on the hidden and often unseen communities in Egypt, has won a main prize at the 2023 World Press Photo awards in the Open Format category. Fellow alumni Alexandra Corcode (b. 2000) has been selected for the 2023 Tom Stoddard Award for Excellence with her intimate portrayal of loneliness and abandonment amongst the elderly generation in her home country of Romania. Finalists of the 2023 programme, Ebrahim Alipoor and Fatma Fahmy, have both been selected for the 2024 VII Mentor program, run by VII Academy.

The 2024 edition is open to students and internsi residing and studying in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, with applications running from February 12th until March 7th. A limited number of spaces will also be available to talent endorsed by industry professionals. Submissions will be judged by a panel of editors from Getty Images, Reuters Pictures, AFP and EPA who will decide on the initial cohort of the region's most promising young storytellers.

One-to-one mentorships

The selected students will be partnered up with one of the programme's expert mentors, with the aim to discuss their current work and longer-term career aspirations in dedicated one-to-one sessions. Virtual reviews throughout summer will help refine their new project proposal and current portfolio – with a particular focus on exploring different editing options and ways to further strengthen narrative skills and develop authorial signatures.

Canon Ambassador and photojournalist, Brent Stirton said, “This is a unique programme to meet and spend time with curators, editors and photographers – a real investment into the future of photography. Stats show that only a fraction of those who study photography survive in the profession long term, and I know that it will make a profound difference for those selected. Growing up in South Africa, there was no way that I could've accessed some of the best editors and photographers in the world when I was starting out, much less borrowing some of the best gear out there.”

Girona workshop and Visa pour l'Image in Perpignan, France

In September, up to 25 students will be invited to a four-day Canon workshop in a grand Catalan farmhouse in Girona, Spain, concluding with a final night's stay at the Visa pour l'Image international photojournalism festival in Perpignan, France.

The workshop will offer an intimate forum to exchange ideas and build relationships with renowned professionals from the world of photography. Group portfolio reviews offer a rich learning opportunity for students and a chance to both critique the work of their fellow peers, as well as receive professional feedback on their own.

Aside from taking in the key exhibitions and evening screenings during Visa pour l'Image, students will also have the opportunity to participate in additional portfolio reviews and further expand their network.

To apply to be a part of the 2024 Canon Student Development Programme or view the entry criteria, please visit: https://apo-opa.co/3UFOaxZ

Footnotes:
[i] For full terms and conditions, please go to this page: https://apo-opa.co/3SxqRUx

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

APO Group - PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon's business within the Africa region - by strengthening Canon's in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon's commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa's rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

Canon's corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.co/3SvVhrS) – ‘living and working together for the common good'. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon's products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

For more information: www.Canon-CNA.com

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Exploring the Vibrant Heart of SA: Soweto Tours and Guided Adventures

Location: MyPR

When it comes to experiencing the rich history, culture, and resilience of South Africa, Soweto (short for South Western Townships) stands out as a must-visit destination. Located just outside Johannesburg, Soweto has a profound historical significance that makes it a captivating place to explore. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through the …

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SA’s perspective on global issues found expression in Ubuntu concept

Location: News

SA’s perspective on global issues found expression in Ubuntu concept

Deputy President Paul Mashatile says South Africa’s unique perspective on global issues has found expression in the concept of Ubuntu, which informs the country’s approach to diplomacy and shapes its vision of a better world for all.

“It was the commonly shared values of Ubuntu that motivated us as a government to mobilise our sharpest legal minds to prepare a solid case to be presented to the International Court of Justice in the hopes of arresting the genocide in Gaza, which the UN Secretary-General has called an unprecedented catastrophe,” Mashatile said.

Mashatile made the remarks at the Eighth Annual Ubuntu Awards 2024 ceremony, held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on Saturday night. 

Hosted annually by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), the awards recognise South African industry leaders, including eminent people and ordinary South African citizens for their distinguished service and contribution to promoting South Africa’s national interests and values across the world.

The event takes place after the opening of Parliament and brings together captains of industry, civil society leaders, members of Cabinet and eminent persons, in addition to all Ambassadors and High Commissioners accredited to South Africa.

Delivering his keynote address, Mashatile said President Cyril Ramaphosa's reference to  Tintswalo during the sixth administration's final State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday solely serves as an indication of the bare minimum achievements that South Africa has achieved over the last three decades.

“We are cognisant that to some, Tintswalo may appear to be an unattainable ambition for a variety of reasons; but, as government, we want the life of Tintswalo to mirror the life of every person and the possibilities that exist for all South Africans, possibilities that exceed Tintswalo’s wildest dreams.

“To achieve this, we must all come together as government, NGOs [non-government organisations], private sector and communities to build a society that will see everyone with equal opportunities,” Mashatile said.

The Deputy President said the reference to Ubuntu in the interim Constitution created hope of an equal and just society, which does not discriminate against people on the grounds of their culture, race, gender or religious beliefs.

Mashatile reiterated government’s commitment to ensuring that South Africa maintains its position as a prominent nation in diverse sectors in the coming years, thereby effecting positive change both domestically and internationally.

Awards winners

The recipients of Ubuntu Wards included, amongst others, South Africa’s Springbok Captain, Siya Kolisi, who received an award in the category of Ubuntu Sports Diplomacy Award (Male). Multichoice received an award in the category of Ubuntu Economic Diplomacy Award (Africa); MaXhosa Africafounder and owner, Laduma Ngxokolo received the Ubuntu Economic Diplomacy Award (Global). 

Ambassador Mohammed Dangor was honoured with the OR Tambo Lifetime Achievement Award, while 30-year-old female farmer from Khayelitsha, Ncumisa Mkabile received Ubuntu Youth Diplomacy Award. 

Ngxokolo said he is super honoured to be acknowledged by DIRCO and sponsors through the award. 

"We have knocked at the doors of DIRCO many times and they have graciously opened. MaXhosa is a growing organisation, it will grow by strategic networks that we are building with DIRCO and various other stakeholders within government and fraternity.

Ngxokolo noted that MaXhosa brand is in a business of selling Ubuntu, African art, and business of selling culture.

“African culture is still a new industry that we stumbled upon, and we were brave enough position our brand around the world. We were confident believe that culture is important, and we believe that every country has brands and their economic driving force,” he said.

Ngxokolo said that the brand currently has 300 staff members and is looking to recruiting 100. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Sun, 02/11/2024 - 13:40

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The Charm of Wendy Houses: A Nostalgic Trip to Childhood

Location: MyPR

Introduction: In the realms of childhood imagination, few structures hold as much enchantment and wonder as the Wendy house. These miniature playhouses, named after Wendy Darling from J.M. Barrie’s famous play “Peter Pan,” have been a staple in gardens and playrooms, offering a magical retreat for children. The Wendy house is not just a plaything; it’s …

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Navigating the Legal Landscape in South Africa

Location: MyPR

Legal matters are an integral part of our lives, shaping our rights, responsibilities, and interactions in society. In this guide, we’ll explore a diverse range of legal specializations, each with its unique focus and significance. From property and real estate law to immigration law, we’ll delve into the intricacies of these fields, highlighting their importance in …

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Selling Your Luxury Items for Cash in SA: A Comprehensive Guide

Location: MyPR

In the dynamic world of luxury items, the allure of precious metals and gems never fades. For South Africans looking to convert their high-end possessions into liquid assets, there’s a thriving market for selling luxury items for cash. This blog explores the avenues and considerations for those looking to part with their cherished possessions, from diamond …

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President Ramaphosa to attend Football for Humanity match

Location: News

President Ramaphosa to attend Football for Humanity match

President Cyril Ramaphosa will today attend the Football for Humanity match between the Palestinian national team and the South African Football Association (SAFA) Third Division at Cape Town's Athlone Stadium.

The Football for Humanity international showpiece, held under the theme, 'Peace, Hope, and Solidarity', aims to provide Palestinian players with the opportunity to enjoy their favourite sport in conditions of peace and sound infrastructure. 

The Presidency said the event symbolises South Africa's historic solidarity with the people of Palestine in their struggle against illegal occupation and violent excesses by the State of Israel.

The Football for Humanity event will showcase the Palestine National Football Team in two exhibition matches on Sunday, 11 February and Sunday, 18 February 2023 at the Athlone Stadium. 

The second match, also to be held at Athlone Stadium, will feature a South African Invitational XI facing off against the Palestinian visitors in the Freedom Cup. 

The Palestinian National Football Team, fresh from their historic achievement in the Asia Cup, where they qualified for the Round of 16 for the first time, touched down in Cape Town on 8 February 2024.

The South African side will be coached by football legends, Boebie Solomons, Dr Jomo Sono and Farouk Khan, adding a significant layer of expertise and leadership to the occasion.

The Presidency said the match holds great significance, as it takes place on a day embedded in the history of South Africa and in a momentous period for the Palestinian solidarity movement. 

“It was on this day, 11 February, in 1990 that former President Nelson Mandela was released from prison, marking the victory of the liberation struggle against apartheid. 

“It is noteworthy that the matches occur in the 30th year of South African freedom, a time when South Africa has taken decisive and historic steps on the global stage in the fight for Palestine's liberation and the end of the conflict in Gaza,” the Presidency said in a statement.

According to the Presidency, the Palestine Football Association has expressed enthusiasm about participating in these matches, recognising their focus on humanity and peace.

“The Football for Humanity match is poised to be a fitting display of the power of sport to promote peace and unity, echoing the sentiments of former President Mandela, who believed that sport has the unique ability to unite people in ways little else can,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Sun, 02/11/2024 - 08:35

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Back to School Magic: Perkal Promos Guide to Selecting the Best Branded Kids Gifts

Location: MyPR

As the academic calendar in South Africa gears up for the new school year, it’s an opportune moment for businesses and organisations to contemplate the impact of promotional gifts for children. Perkal Promo, a front-runner in the promotional gift arena, comprehensively understands the significance of handpicking that ideal gift which adds an extra sprinkle of enchantment …

Read moreBack to School Magic: Perkal Promos Guide to Selecting the Best Branded Kids Gifts

EPA Track & Field League 7 at NMU Stadium – Saturday, 10 February 2024

Location: MyPR

Last weekend, 3 February, saw 312 athletes competing in 400 items in hot and humid conditions at the Westbourne Oval. The Track & Field season opened in September, so this was the sixth competitive League event of the 2023/2024 season but the second event this year. League 6 showcased a number of outstanding athletes who …

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Understanding the Inner Workings of Search Engines: A Must-Know for Every Business Owner

Location: MyPR

Pretoria, South Africa – In a digital age where online presence is paramount, understanding the intricate mechanisms of search engines has become more crucial than ever for business owners. Click Results, a leading digital marketing firm based in Pretoria, South Africa, unveils valuable insights into the functionality of search engines and the importance of Search …

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Minister Zizi Kodwa on Bafana Bafana and Boxing South Africa

Location: News

South African Government
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The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Mr Zizi Kodwa, arrived in South Africa from Cote d'Ivoire to join the Presidential Golf Challenge in Cape Town on Friday, 9 February 2024.

Speaking to Government Communication and Information Systems (GCIS) on the sidelines of this engagement, Minister Kodwa reflected on Bafana Bafana's performance at the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d'Ivoire and provided an update on matters facing Boxing South Africa (BSA).

Reflecting on Bafana Bafana's performance at AFCON, where the national team reached the semifinals of the tournament for the first time in 24 years, the Minister expressed optimism about the team's future.

Minister Kodwa says, “When Bafana Bafana lost to Mali, I said to them that it was a shock, but there are lessons to be learnt and that they will get to the semifinals. Indeed, they got to the semifinals.”

The Minister adds, “What is clear for me now is that after a long time with Bafana Bafana, we now have sufficient building blocks for a national team to prepare for the next World Cup.”

Minister Kodwa once again the emphasised the importance of focusing on sports development at grassroots level.

The Minister says, “We must focus on grassroots to build on. Bafana Bafana have done us proud as a country. All our national sports teams are performing extremely well. Bafana Bafana have come to the party.”

Minister Kodwa also reflected on the urgency of the BSA matter that is currently before the court. The Minister once again highlighted government's focus to stabilise leadership and governance at BSA.

The Minister says, “We are dealing with the issue. It takes time, but we have got to be careful in whatever we do.”

The Minister adds, “In a matter of days, I am considering a number of options, including that in the interim while we are dealing with the issue of the main application of the court ruling, whether we should consider appointing an administrator to do the same work that the Board would have done. We are considering that because we do not want licensees, the boxers, and the sport of boxing to suffer because of the lacuna that is there because the board was interdicted.”

Minister Kodwa also says, “I want to bring boxing to its glory days. Whatever we do, we must make sure that there is clarity on issues of governance, there is clarity on issues of stability of leadership.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Government.

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Silicon Savannah: A solution to bottlenecked universities and shattered dreams

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg, 2024 – Despite the recent matric results boasting a 40.9 percent Bachelor’s pass rate, a sense of disappointment, disillusionment, and desperation is sweeping over the class of 2023 as a cruel enigma looms. Inclusion, accessibility, and affordability is bottlenecking the potential of South Africa’s (SA) youth, stifling the aspirations of countless young minds and …

Read moreSilicon Savannah: A solution to bottlenecked universities and shattered dreams

Deputy President to attend Ubuntu Awards on Saturday

Location: News

Deputy President to attend Ubuntu Awards on Saturday

On behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Saturday attend and deliver the keynote address at the annual Ubuntu Awards at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). 

Hosted by the International Relations and Cooperation Minister, the awards recognise South African industry leaders, eminent people and ordinary South African citizens for their distinguished service and contribution to promoting South Africa’s national interests and values across the world.

The event takes place after the opening of Parliament and brings together captains of industry, civil society leaders, members of the Cabinet and eminent persons, in addition to all Ambassadors and High Commissioners accredited to South Africa.

Past winners have included performance artists, athletes, major South African companies and social upliftment foundations.

Winners from previous years include, among others, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Esther Mahlangu, Black Coffee, the late Hugh Masekela, Trevor Noah, Pretty Yende, Caster Semenya, Wayde van Niekerk, Gift of The Givers and the Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation. 

The Ubuntu Awards were launched in 2015 to celebrate South African citizens who play an active role in projecting a positive image of South Africa internationally through diligent service in their respective fields. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Fri, 02/09/2024 - 10:56

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MEC Mireille Wenger invites citizens to comment on proposed amendments to Immigration Regulations

Location: News

South African Government
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The Department of Home Affairs has released the draft second amendment of the Immigration Regulations, dealing with two key categories of visas - the remote working and critical skills visa, and ancillary matters for public comment.

This comes after extensive lobbying by the Western Cape Government since 2021 for the introduction of a digital nomad visa and reforms to the visa regime to enable South Africa to attract skilled individuals to South Africa, to help develop and grow the economy.

“To boost tourism, facilitate foreign investment, and allow digital nomads to work in South Africa, while spending their earnings here, we need to make it as easy as possible for them to access South Africa,” said Minister Wenger. “At the same time, it is essential that South Africa can attract and welcome skilled individuals that will contribute to growing the complexity of our economy, facilitate new industries and thereby create new South African jobs” she continued. 

“The longer it takes to implement necessary changes to the current disastrous visa regime in South Africa, the more opportunities we miss out on to grow the economy and create jobs. While I welcome the progress signalled by the call for comments by the Department of Home Affairs, time is really of the essence, ” said Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger.

“I strongly encourage all those who wish to see our economy grow and thrive, creating hundreds of thousands of new jobs, not just in the Western Cape, but across this incredible country, to review the draft second amendments and submit their comments to the Department of Home Affairs, by the deadline of 29 March 2024,” concluded Minister Wenger.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Government.

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The Earthshot Prize Announces Earthshot Week and Awards in Cape Town this November

Location: News
MultiChoice Group

The Earthshot Prize will travel to Cape Town, South Africa this November for Earthshot Week 2024, featuring The Prize's annual Awards Ceremony. Across five days of landmark events, The Earthshot Prize will celebrate the groundbreaking work of fifteen global environmental solutions and convene leading innovators, Earthshot Alumni, partners, investors and philanthropists for inspiring conversations and action on catalysing solutions to protect and restore our planet.

The Earthshot Prize is an ambitious global environmental prize which aims to discover and help scale the world's most innovative climate and environmental solutions to protect and restore our planet. The Prize is centered around five ‘Earthshots'; simple but aspirational goals to ensure our communities, oceans and ecosystems can thrive together in harmony for generations to come.

This year, The Earthshot Prize will bring its annual celebration to South Africa for the first time, following events in London in 2021, Boston in 2022 and Singapore in 2023. Over the coming months, a rigorous selection process will unearth fifteen Finalists from around the world, of whom five will be awarded a £1 million (R23 800 000,00) prize to scale their solutions, during the ceremony in Cape Town.

Hannah Jones, CEO of The Earthshot Prize said: “This is the Earthshot Decade, a decade in which we must, by 2030, reduce CO2 emissions by over 40 percent, and protect 30 percent of nature, oceans, and freshwater. The nominations to The Earthshot Prize remind us that human ingenuity, grit and determination can turn the seemingly impossible into the new normal. We're delighted to be working with changemakers and partners across Africa to spotlight the incredible innovation emerging across the continent, to convene courageous conversations about scale and finance, and to partner with young creators and filmmakers to tell the story of changemakers across Africa.”

Nearly 400 nominees for this year's Prize are Africa-based, highlighting the trailblazing creativity and innovation across the continent with the potential to inspire optimism and provide pathways to transformative change around the world. One of The Prize's inspiring 2023 finalists was Cape Town's ABALOBI, a non-profit partnership between fishers and scientists aimed at protecting small-scale fishing communities while arming their customers with better information about the origin of their seafood.

Despite contributing the least to global warming and having the lowest emissions, Africa is the most vulnerable continent to the impacts of climate change. In 2022 alone, more than 110 million people across Africa were directly affected by weather, climate, and water-related hazards according to the World Meteorological Organization. Yet in the face of these challenges, nearly all African countries have committed to enhancing climate action through reducing their greenhouse gas emissions and building resilience.

Earthshot Week will begin with The Prize's annual Awards Ceremony, an evening of extraordinary storytelling and star-studded performances, celebrating the work of the fifteen Earthshot Prize finalists. The ceremony will be followed by Earthshot+, a day of thought-provoking conversations aimed at multiplying the impact of The Earthshot Prize Winners and Finalists.

During Earthshot Week, Cape Town will also play host to the annual Earthshot Fellowship Retreat which will kickstart the yearlong Earthshot Prize Fellowship Programme. The programme is a key element of the wrap-around support that each cohort of fifteen Finalists receives in addition to the £1 million prize, providing mentorship, resources and technical support, helping to accelerate the growth of each groundbreaking solution. That support includes access to the Prize's robust network of the world's largest businesses, philanthropists, investors and environmental organizations committed to climate action.

The Prize has recently completed its annual nominations process, culminating in nearly 2500 entries submitted from 432 Official Nominators from around the world, doubling the nominations from any previous year. Nearly 400 of the 2024 nominations are headquartered in Africa, three times more than in any previous set of nominations. The fifteen new finalists chosen this year will be emblematic of a growing global movement of innovators, gamechangers and entrepreneurs creating transformative solutions that, if scaled, could accelerate a green, just transition to a net zero world.

The Prize's first three cohorts of 45 Finalists have already driven incredible impact to repair and regenerate our planet with more than 1.5 million people benefiting directly from their solutions. Over 7,000 hectares of land and almost 2.1 million hectares of ocean have been protected or restored, while over 35,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions have been reduced, avoided or sequestered. The Prize's 2023 Finalists, announced this past autumn, are well on their way to creating similar impact.

The Earthshot Prize is proud to partner with MultiChoice Group to bring Earthshot Week to Africa. As a member of The Earthshot Prize Global Alliance of Partners, the MultiChoice Group is part of a global network of non-profit and international organizations committed to the environment and sustainable development. It is one of the fastest-growing entertainment providers globally, delivering entertainment products and services to more than 22m households across 50 countries on the African continent. In partnership with MultiChoice, The Earthshot Prize will provide a platform to African Youth Creators to spotlight and celebrate African solutions and the people behind them.

Imtiaz Patel, MultiChoice Group Chairman, said: “As the leading entertainment company in Africa, we are immensely proud to be the African Broadcast partner for Earthshot Prize at such a monumental time. This marks the first time the prestigious prize comes to our continent.

MultiChoice is well positioned to not only amplify the urgent message of climate change but also to inspire and galvanize innovators, corporate partners, and governments to prioritize sustainable solutions. This partnership signifies our ongoing commitment to fostering a sustainable future for Africa, and we look forward to playing a pivotal role in advancing the goals of The Earthshot Prize.”

The 2024 Earthshot Prize Finalists will be unveiled in September. More details about The Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony and Earthshot Week in Cape Town will be released in due course.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.

Contact:
For The Earthshot Prize:
earthshotprize@fgsglobal.com

For MultiChoice Group:
Litlhare.moteetee@multichoice.co.za

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About The Earthshot Prize:
Founded by Prince William and incubated in the The Royal Foundation in 2020 for a year before becoming an independent platform/organization, The Earthshot Prize is a global environmental prize and platform designed to discover, accelerate and scale ground-breaking solutions to repair and regenerate the planet. Inspired by President John F. Kennedy's Moonshot, which united millions of people around the goal of reaching the moon, The Earthshot Prize aims to catalyse an Earthshot challenge to urgently encourage and scale innovative solutions that can help put the world firmly on a trajectory towards a stable climate, where communities, oceans and biodiversity thrive in harmony by 2030. The five challenges are: Protect and Restore Nature; Clean Our Air; Revive Our Oceans; Build a Waste-Free World; and Fix Our Climate.

The Prize aims to turn the current pessimism surrounding environmental issues into optimism by championing inspiring leadership and helping to scale incredible cutting-edge solutions. It will discover 50 winners over 10 years with the power to repair the planet. More than an award, The Earthshot Prize works in partnership with a Global Alliance of Partners to support the scaling of the solutions discovered and selected each year.

The Global Alliance Founding Partners are a group of leading global organizations and philanthropists, which act as strategic funding partners to the Prize, including Aga Khan Development Network, Bezos Earth Fund, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Breakthrough Energy Foundation, Coleman Family Ventures, DP World in partnership with Dubai EXPO 2020, Eleven Eleven Foundation, Holch Povlsen Foundation, Jack Ma Foundation, Law Family Charitable Foundation, Legado Para A Juventude, Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, Marc and Lynne Benioff, Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, Rob Walton Foundation, Sandy and Paul Edgerley, Standard Chartered Bank, Temasek Trust and Wyc Grousbeck and Emilia Fazzalari.

Global Alliance Partners are non-profit environment and sustainable development organizations that bring expertise, global reach and serve as nominating organizations each year. For full list see website: Global Alliance - Earthshot Prize.

Global Alliance Members are some of the world's largest and most influential companies and brands that will support The Earthshot Prize, implement ambitious changes within their businesses and accelerate the advancement of the solutions of Prize Finalists and Winners.

They are: Arup, Bloomberg L.P., Deloitte, Herbert Smith Freehills, Hitachi, Ingka Group (IKEA), Microsoft, The Multichoice Group, Natura &Co, Safaricom, Salesforce, Unilever, Vodacom Group and Walmart. For more information about The Earthshot Prize, visit: www.EarthShotPrize.org.

About MultiChoice Group:
MultiChoice Group (MCG), which listed in the Main Board of the JSE on 27 February 2019, is one of the fastest-growing video entertainment providers globally, delivering entertainment products and services more than 22m households across 50 countries on the African continent. Its track record of more than 30 years is reflective of a commitment to provide audiences with only the best local, sport and international content.

MCG's strong partnerships with distributors, installers and telecommunication companies, along with its well-established payment solutions, competitive pricing and choice of viewership packages continue to secure its place in the global market, while also providing solutions unique to the African market. Its direct-to-home (DTH), digital terrestrial television.

(DTT) and over-the-top (OTT) solutions enable the business to stay relevant and aligned to changing consumer habits while capturing new markets. Content is at the very core of the business. MCG aims to deliver quality content anywhere, anytime and on any device through a comprehensive video entertainment offering at different price points. As pioneers in African video entertainment, MCG plays an important role in making information and entertainment easily accessible to Africans.

MCG aims to secure content rights in a manner that is cost-effective and reflective of the diversity of its audiences. Its substantial portfolio includes award-winning local content (a key differentiator in its service offering), a leading sport offering (including production capabilities) and access to international content, which is all shared on the group's platforms: DStv, GOtv, Showmax, M-Net and SuperSport.

MCG has superior technology capability through the security solutions that Irdeto, its technology company, brings to the group. These solutions enable MultiChoice to protect its investment, create new offerings and combat cybercrime. With 50 years' expertise in software security, Irdeto's software security solutions and cyber services protect over 5bn devices and applications for some of the world's best brands.

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