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South Africa
South Africa will continue to stand with the vulnerable: Mashatile
South Africa will continue to stand with the vulnerable: Mashatile
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has vowed that South Africa will continue to stand for the vulnerable and marginalised, and fight for a just world.
This comes after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague ordered Israel to, amongst 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.
South Africa had approached the ICJ to garner not only a ceasefire of Israel’s military barrage of Palestine but also to ask the court to find the Israeli government guilty of committing acts of genocide. The ICJ found that it was “plausible” that Israel committed acts which violate the Genocide Convention.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has this week said that as a signatory to the Genocide Convention, the South African government bears a responsibility to prevent acts of genocide wherever they occur.
As South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy this year, the country’s second-in-command said not only has government made significant strides in transforming South Africa but it has also left a significant mark globally by “unapologetically” choosing to stand on the side of justice.
“We are a nation that will always stand for the vulnerable and marginalised, and fight for a just world. We call upon the rest of the world to join us in this important fight for justice, equality, and peace,” Mashatile said.
The Deputy President was speaking at the South Africa Legislative Sector International Oversight Summit at the Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town.
The two-day summit provides the sector with an opportunity to reflect on the gains made in strengthening democracy, while discussing how it can optimise its role as a guardian of democracy by improving the legislative arm of the State.
“This theme is relevant in that it reminds us of the strategic role that legislatures play in transforming society and championing the interests of all South Africans towards a better life for all,” said Mashatile.
Legislation
He told delegates that 30 years of democracy is a demonstration that it is possible to have a people-centred government that considers citizens as critical role players in policy and law-making processes.
“It is, therefore, important that through this summit, we maintain the commitments we have to these principles that underpin our democratic government and legislative sector. Parliaments must continue to be people-centred institutions that bring the voices of the people to governance.”
He cited accountability, good ethics, integrity, and transparency as critical factors for a guiding framework to strengthen the legislature’s role toward improving the lives of all South Africans.
“Without these principles, the sustainable human development agenda will not find its truest expression.”
The Deputy President also touched on effective oversight, which he believes is crucial to ensure that these principles are upheld and that institutions serve the needs of the people to realise a better life for all.
“The fundamental test of democracy lies in Parliament’s ability to maintain Executive accountability through continuous oversight. The litmus test of an active citizenry in a democracy is the extent to which Parliament can hold the government accountable to the people.”
He identified corruption, abuse of State power, and maladministration as critical deficiencies that undermine governance, institutions and processes, which leads to the erosion of public trust.
“In this regard, Chapter 9 of the Constitution mandates the creation of institutions designed to protect and support democracy.”
To demonstrate South Africa’s commitment to good governance, Mashatile cited the State Capture Commission.
“Regarding the latest report received, Parliament is currently working on proper mechanisms to address the issues raised by the report of the State Capture Commission. The Presiding Officers of Parliament have already referred certain matters requiring direct action by Parliament to parliamentary structures for processing.”
READ | Implementation of State Capture Commission recommendations continues
Elections
Meanwhile, the Deputy President commended the nation for playing an essential role in safeguarding democracy by securing free and fair elections during the last six administrations.
“Today, we are just a few months away from the National General Elections, which will mark the transition from the sixth to the seventh Parliament.
“As government, we want to assure Parliament and the international community that we have confidence in our Electoral Commission (IEC), and we strongly believe that the IEC will deliver free and fair elections in 2024 and beyond as it has done so before.”
The IEC is set to hold a voter registration drive this weekend. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 01/30/2024 - 15:39
145 views
Joma ensures performance and comfort for Durban International Marathon and 10k runners
Taking place on Sunday 28 April 2024, the Durban International Marathon is one of seven iconic road runs that boast a limited edition Joma Sports event shoe – joining the ranks of esteemed international events such as the Paris 20k, Ibiza Marathon, Rome Marathon, Porto Marathon, Firenze/Florence Marathon and the Madrid Half Marathon. “The Joma …
Foreign nationals to appear in court for contravention of Immigration Act
Foreign nationals to appear in court for contravention of Immigration Act
About 23 foreign nationals and two South Africans are expected to appear before the Mankweng Magistrate's Court today for contravention of the Immigration Act and bribery.
This after the South African Police Service arrested them on Saturday in Solomondale near Polokwane.
It is reported that members of the SAPS Limpopo Provincial Tracking Team, in conjunction with two private security companies, SPS High Risk and Tshimollo Security, operationalised information gathered regarding a white Toyota Quantum that was driving along the R81 in Solomondale, from the Beitbridge border.
It is reported that the operational team successfully spotted the said Quantum at a filling station along the R81 road in Sebayeng and upon checking, they discovered that 23 Ethiopian male nationals, aged between 20 and 38 years, were ferried in a 15-seater passenger mini bus by the driver, a 44-year-old male South African citizen.
Preliminary investigations revealed that all the passengers in the Quantum were illegally smuggled into South Africa from Ethiopia through Zimbabwe.
It is reported that while in the process of searching the Quantum and the passengers, a white Toyota Fortuner, being driven by a male foreign national, pulled up at the scene.
It is reported that the driver of the Quantum was found in possession of a licensed firearm and it was confiscated for investigation purposes.
Meanwhile, the driver of the Fortuner reportedly tried to bribe the police with R5 000 to let the Quantum and the passengers go free. The man was charged with bribery.
The two drivers were also arrested and are facing charges of human trafficking, bribery and contravention of Immigration Act.
The Acting Limpopo Commissioner, Major General Jan Scheepers, hailed the involved teams for their commitment and alertness in ridding the province of criminality. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 01/29/2024 - 10:31
647 views
Transforming Your Living Space with Smart Home Automation
In today’s fast-paced world, convenience and efficiency are key factors in creating a comfortable and modern living environment. Smart home automation has changed the way we interact with our homes, making daily tasks easier, more convenient, and energy-efficient. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just looking to simplify your daily routines, the world of smart …
Summer is here, fade secure it with The Crazy Store’s Pulse Active range!
Summer is here and it’s time for a refresh! Now is the perfect opportunity to reinvent your goals and reintroduce healthy habits with our Pulse Active range to bring fun into your fitness journey. Elevate your flexibility and sleep quality with our Yoga equipment. Picture yourself bouncing on the vibrant Yoga Ball and unwinding on the …
IEC to host voter registration this weekend
IEC to host voter registration this weekend
The Electoral Commission (IEC) will on Wednesday host a media briefing to unveil plans for the second national voter registration weekend scheduled for 3 and 4 February 2024.
The second national voter registration weekend is part of the Electoral Commission's effort to ensure that South Africans, who were unable to register to vote during the first registration drive in November 2023, have another opportunity to do so.
Existing voters will also use the opportunity to update and/or change their details before the voters’ roll is closed for the 2024 General Elections.
During the briefing, the Electoral Commission will shed light on its countrywide rollout plan ahead of the voter registration weekend.
Last week, the IEC announced that South Africans living abroad were given the opportunity to register at South Africa’s 120 high commissions, embassies and consulates on January 26, 27 and 28.
Registration for inmates at correctional centres is scheduled to take place between January 30 and February 1.
“The Commission has been informed that due to the transfer factor for inmates, correctional centres will also be accepting IDs for inmates serving sentences in distant towns or provinces. These identity documents will be transferred to the relevant facilities where inmates are incarcerated,” the IEC said in a statement.
The Department of Correctional Services has indicated that it will put all necessary measures in place to ensure that IDs are kept safe.
The IEC emphasizes that the online voter registration portal will remain accessible until the date of the proclamation of the elections, providing an additional avenue for voter registration.
According to the IEC, 23 296 voting stations will open from 08h00 to 17h00 on Saturday, 3 February and Sunday, 4 February to allow new voters to register and existing voters to check and if necessary, update their registration details ahead of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
Following the first registration weekend held in November 2023, the voters’ roll contains 26.8 million voters.
The Commission said it is hopeful that the second registration weekend will build on and surpass the satisfactory turnout recorded in November.
Citizens aged 16 years and older can register to vote. All they need is a South African identity document (the green barcoded ID book, smartcard ID or a valid temporary ID certificate). However, only those aged 18 and older can vote.
When registering, voters will need to provide their address or a description of where they live to allow the Electoral Commission to place them on the correct segment of the voters’ roll. However, proof of address is not a requirement to register as a voter.
The Electoral Commission helpline -- 0800 11 8000 -- is available to assist citizens with queries and information about the registration process and information related to locations of voting stations. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 01/29/2024 - 13:09
353 views
Unlocking Business Success: Click Results Shares Crucial Insights on Website Speed Optimization
Pretoria, South Africa. In a digital age where information is sought at lightning speed, Click Results, a leading digital marketing firm based in Pretoria, brings forth indispensable insights on the critical impact of website speed on businesses. In today’s competitive online landscape, the need for swift, efficient websites cannot be overstated. In a recent communication, …
SAHRC releases July 2021 unrest report
SAHRC releases July 2021 unrest report
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has released its report into the July 2021 unrest that unfolded in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), during which some 350 people lost their lives.
The violence and destruction also caused damage to infrastructure and businesses costing South Africa’s economy some R50 billion, with a further two million jobs being lost or affected.
Speaking at the release of the report, SAHRC Commissioner Philile Ntuli said the commission found that myriad factors contributed to the outbreak of destruction and violence during the riots.
“The violence and destruction were symptomatic of unresolved systemic conditions, including post-COVID-19 economic recovery, high unemployment, lawlessness, discrimination, socio-economic divides, and issues within the security sector.
“The Commission concluded that organised groups and individuals opportunistically exploited these conditions to attempt to usurp the rule of law,” Ntuli said.
The Commission’s work focused on four issues namely:
- The social, economic, spatial, and political factors prevalent in the various affected areas, and the extent to which these played a role in the unrest.
- The causes of the alleged racially motivated attacks and killings in the country.
- The causes of the apparent lapses in law enforcement by State Security agencies, particularly in the South African Police Service, and the role of private security companies in the unrest.
- The causes of the July unrest, with particular focus on Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.
The SAHRC made a series of findings on and recommendations for each issue - including on the South African Police Service and the country’s intelligence services.
The full report can be obtained at https://www.sahrc.org.za/home/21/files/JULY%20UNREST%20REPORT%20FINAL_29%20JAN%202024.pdf.
Ntuli described the unrest as a well-orchestrated and a “violent culmination of deep-rooted political and social challenges” that South Africa had been facing.
“The unrest was largely attributed to typologies of organisation and orchestration of public discord, crime and protest.
“Evidence indicated that the acts during the unrest were well-orchestrated, including the blocking of the N3, destruction of factories and warehouses, attack on government communication facilities, and bombing and theft of ATMs. These events were interconnected and required significant resources.
“Two types of actors were identified during the unrest: primary actors, who led and executed widespread destruction, and secondary actors, who participated in theft. The timing of the events coincided with the incarceration of former President Jacob Zuma, leading to a perception that the two were related,” Ntuli said.
Ntuli said while evidence suggests that the unrest was well orchestrated, the Commission “did not receive clear evidence identifying specific groups or individuals as primary actors, while… the common purpose or intention behind the unrest remained unclear”.
In her concluding remarks, Ntuli said the July 2021 unrest must be a “marker and a lesson” as South Africa continues its journey “from our colonial past”.
“Building a united, inclusive, safe and prosperous South Africa requires confronting the past, acknowledging present challenges, and working together for positive change. The unrest was a wake-up call, nudging us all to the reality of the fragility of the peace and security that some enjoy.
“It was a reminder that the process of democracy and constitutionalism has to benefit all, if it is to be sustained. It was a confrontation with the reality that the Bill of Rights must be realised for all, and particularly for those of whom the same rights were deprived by the colonial and apartheid governments,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 01/29/2024 - 13:23
270 views
Government activities for the week 29 January to 2 February 2024
Government activities for the week 29 January to 2 February 2024
On Monday, 29 January, the National School of Government is hosting a webinar on artificial intelligence (AI) from 11:00 to 13:00.
On Tuesday, 30 January, is the opening ceremony of the AfCFTA Council of Ministers (COM) responsible for Trade.
On Tuesday, 30 January, Deputy Minister in The Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Pinky Kenana will conduct a frontline monitoring and Back to School Campaign at Vukuhambe Special School in Mdantsane under the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape.
On Wednesday, 31 January, is South Africa’s launch of the preferential trade ceremony and the closing ceremony of the Council of Ministers.
Also on Wednesday, 31 January, President Cyril Ramaphosa will undertake a Presidential Welisizwe Bridges hand over in KwaZulu-Natal.
The Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Makhotso Sotyu, will lead the hand over ceremonies of the Kei Mouth and Qoloha plantations, followed by the Wilo and Ntlangaza plantations in the Eastern Cape on Wednesday, 31 January.
On Wednesday, 31 January, The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) will host a series of public engagement sessions to unpack the draft Integrated Resource Plan (IRP2023) that has been published for public comment.
Janine
Mon, 01/29/2024 - 12:17
285 views
President to officiate launch of SA’s first shipment under AfCFTA
President to officiate launch of SA’s first shipment under AfCFTA
President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday officiate the launch of South Africa's first shipment and preferential trading under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The launch ceremony will take place at the Port of Durban and occurs on the margins of the 13th AfCFTA Council of Ministers meeting to be held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre from 30 - 31 January 2024.
South Africa is the first among the four Southern African Customs Union (SACU) countries to practically realise the AfCFTA agreement.
The 37th African Union Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government will, at its annual convention next month, take stock of the progress made thus far in the implementation of the AfCFTA.
The successful implementation of the AfCFTA is expected to lead to diversification of exports, increased productive capacity, acceleration of growth, increased investment, increased employment opportunities and incomes and most importantly, broaden economic inclusion both in South Africa and the rest of the continent.
It provides South African exporters with new market access opportunities to key markets in the African continent and can unlock growth.
President Ramaphosa will be joined by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel; KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube and AfCFTA Secretary General Wamkele Mene. Other dignitaries will include the AfCFTA Council of Ministers, who will witness the first shipment of Proudly South African products exported to the continent.
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition said the launch ceremony will be a historic step and an instrumental tool in generating meaningful trade on the African continent through the shipment of made-in-South Africa products.
“The main message being sent to Africa and the rest of the world through this event is to illustrate that companies can trade under the AfCFTA procedures to expand their markets within a legally binding framework,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 01/29/2024 - 10:59
154 views
JC Auditors (JCA) Raise Awareness of SAHPRA Medical Device Licence Requirements
JC Auditors (JCA) in Bid to Raise Awareness of SAHPRA Medical Device Licence Requirements January 2024: JC Auditors (JCA), a leader in the certification industry, has embarked on a campaign to raise awareness about the critical importance of ISO 13485 certification as a prerequisite for obtaining medical device licenses in South Africa. South African Health Products …
Africa Mercy® heads to Madagascar after recrewing in East London
Following a recrewing effort, the hospital ship, Africa Mercy®, has now departed from the Port of East London for service within the nation of Madagascar for the next ten months.
During the eight-month refit in Durban's Dormac Shipyard, the ship underwent extensive repairs and maintenance to prolong and improve the vessel's service life and quality of medical services.
Highlights of the Africa Mercy's® refurbishment included an information technology (IT) upgrade enhancing the ship's operating theatre functionality and performance by enabling seamless coordination between the Africa Mercy® and Mercy Ships' latest hospital ship, the Global Mercy™, currently serving the nation of Sierra Leone in West Africa. Upgrades will support the provision of essential training for local doctors, fostering the development of in-country healthcare professionals. Additional improvements included the modernization of the galley, upgrades to the elevator system, and remodeling of several cabin spaces, enabling the ship's community to better serve those in need of surgical care.
Brenda van Straten, Director, Mercy Ships, South Africa, says: “The refit was part of a broader five-year initiative to ensure that the Africa Mercy® can continue the provision of life-changing surgeries and training over the next decade. In parallel with the Ship's refurbishment, Mercy Ships conducted eight Safer Anesthetics from Education (SAFE) courses in South Africa this past year, impacting 236 health professionals in the region.”
The courses in South Africa focused on rural and state hospitals where junior doctors were in vital need of practical approaches to managing their patients. A total of 58 South African anesthetists partnered with Mercy Ships to provide the training.
The ship's service in Madagascar is part of a five-year investment in Education, Training, and Advocacy efforts in combination with a surgical schedule, including maxillofacial and ENT, general, pediatric specialized general, pediatric orthopedic, reconstructive plastics, ophthalmic, women's health, as well as dental care.
“Madagascar faces a shortage of surgical support from both local and international partners, especially in the most vulnerable areas. We appreciate Mercy Ships' approach to reaching underserved communities. As we open 28 district hospitals, each requiring at least two surgeons, we look forward to collaborating with Mercy Ships to strengthen our surgical capacity,” shared Dr. Lethicia Lydia Yasmine, secretary general for the Ministry of Health, Madagascar.
A 2016 study found that only 20% of the population can access surgical services within two hours, and up to 95% of the population would face financial ruin if they required surgery. With approximately 20 physicians for every 100,000 people, surgical treatment feels out of reach for many.
The ten-month field service will be the fourth visit since 1996, with the most recent in 2015-2016. Over these three previous field services, Mercy Ships worked with the government and the Ministry of Health to provide 6,425 surgical procedures and over 52,000 dental procedures. In addition to providing life-changing surgical and dental care, Mercy Ships has a historic focus on education having trained a total of 2,019 healthcare professionals in Madagascar to date.
Mercy Ships still has open volunteer roles for project directors, a clinical training coordinator, informatics specialists, as well as ward nurses, IT professionals, cooks, teachers, plumbers, and electricians. For more information visit www.MercyShips.co.za
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mercy Ships.
Hi-res photos and general Mercy Ships B-Roll video footage are available upon request.
For more information contact:
Brenda van Straten
Director, South Africa
Mercy Ships
Email: info.zaf@mercyships.org
Website: www.MercyShips.co.za
About Mercy Ships:
Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with African nations for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact.
Each year, more than 3,000 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world's two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy® and the Global Mercy™. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical, obstetric and anesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal. For more information, visit MercyShips.org and follow @MercyShips on social media.
Shaping the Future of South African Education: The Transformative Role of Emerging Technologies
By Dr Shahiem Patel – Dean of Regent Business School The future is becoming increasingly difficult to think about, let alone plan for. The vital need for education systems in South Africa to improve and meet the pressing needs of society and our economy only compound this difficulty. The rate at which technology is developing …
Record Stolk 50 Bulldozes Sa U19s Into Super Sixes
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Playoffs qualification the prize for DSG and Royals on Sunday
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#BlackExcellence: Strategies for Capital Access in the Global Economy
The global economy is expanding, providing an opportunity for Black-owned businesses to succeed. Various mechanisms have been adopted to facilitate access to the necessary capital required by these businesses to align with the dynamic growth of various economic sectors.
Global Black Impact Summit
The Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS) 2024 – scheduled for February 27 in Dubai – plays a pivotal role in assisting Black-owned businesses to secure capital. Organized by the Black Impact Foundation, a Dutch-based global organization empowering the Black Community and advocating for inclusivity on the global stage, GBIS 2024 will take place under the theme “Black Excellence: Unleashing the Unexplored Potential for Global Unity.” The movement serves as a premier platform for Black-owned businesses, startups, and projects to engage with potential global investors, fostering discussions and facilitating the signing of investment deals. Through a series of panel discussions, investment-focused exclusive networking sessions, and project exhibitions, GBIS 2024 will shed light on best practices and showcase diverse financial platforms dedicated to empowering Black-owned businesses.
Online Crowdfunding Platforms
Crowdfunding platforms such as Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and GoFundMe have become instrumental for Black-owned projects to showcase their innovative business ideas and garner support from a diverse audience. Beyond serving as a funding source, these platforms act as a means to validate market interest in the products or services offered by Black entrepreneurs. Research conducted by the University of Houston Conrad N. Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership reveals a significant evolution in funding dynamics for Black-owned businesses on Kickstarter. Businesses leveraging online crowdfunding platforms are now nearly four times more successful in securing funding.
Venture Capital Firms
Driven by a push to ensure inclusivity and gender diversity across the globe, venture capital firms have increased focus on funding Black-owned businesses. In the U.S. alone, venture capital directed to Black businesses reached record high in 2020 and continues to increase with firms such as Balmer Group – owned by Steve Ballmer, former Microsoft CEO – releasing $400 million in investment to support Black entrepreneurs in 2022. Across Europe, platforms like the UK's Black Seed Ventures are reshaping capital access for Black-owned businesses. Since its inception in 2021, the seed fund has secured over £5 million in funding to support 30 Black-led startups within the healthcare, deeptech, and artificial intelligence sectors by 2026. Google's Startups Black Founders Fund allocated $100 million in 2022 to support the Black startup community across Africa, Europe, Brazil, and the U.S., building on the $30 million already directed towards this community since 2020.
Minority-Owned Business Grants
Grants offered by government agencies, non-profit organizations and various corporations to empower minority entrepreneurs have evolved into not only a crucial source of financial assistance for Black-owned businesses but also a significant financial catalyst, propelling the expansion of economies. South Africa's Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC) in collaboration with other government agencies such as the Industrial Development Corporation and the National Empowerment Fund, allocated R32 billion in grants to nearly 800 Black industrialists between 2016 and 2020. These investments have fostered socioeconomic development and shaped job creation with up to 120,000 jobs created and preserved. As the DTIC amplifies investments in Black-owned businesses to reduce reliance on imports by 2026, government grants emerge as a significant opportunity for Black entrepreneurs to access capital.
Banks
Banks play a pivotal role in empowering Black-owned businesses by facilitating access to capital. In the UK, Lloyds Bank has collaborated with the Black Business Network and FounderVine to offer financial support in the form of loans and grants to Black entrepreneurs. Additionally, in the U.S., online banking platform Guava is providing specialized services to enable Black-owned businesses to secure essential capital.
Register here (www.GlobalBlackImpact.com) for GBIS 2024 and gain first-hand insight into the various strategies to secure capital for your business.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
Is voice biometrics in banking secure enough?
Apart from going into a branch, calling a bank feels more human for digital-shy consumers. For many, it is the first port of call for making account changes or moving large sums of money. But how safe is voice banking really, and what are the chances of someone using generative AI to fake a consumer's voice and steal their available funds? As incidents of banking fraud grow exponentially and become increasingly sophisticated, it is time to question whether voice banking is a safe option for consumers.
Impersonation attacks continue to increase
Impersonation is one of the predominant methods fraudsters use to rob consumers. Using identifying information such as personal details or AI-generated voice, criminals can access consumer bank accounts with impunity. According to the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS), impersonation attacks increased by 264% (https://apo-opa.co/3vRJHy3) for the first five months of 2022 compared to 2021.
Gur Geva, founder of iiDENTIfii, explains why. “The technology required to impersonate an individual has become cheaper, easier to use and more accessible. This means that it is simpler than ever before for a criminal to assume one aspect of a person's identity.”
How voice impersonation works
Voice recognition systems in banking rely on a person saying something aloud, such as a unique catchphrase or password. This is vulnerable to exploitation because synthetic AI-generated voice technology has evolved to such an extent that it is indistinguishable from real voices. According to MIT (https://apo-opa.co/3vQzDW2) and Google (https://apo-opa.co/481DexW), generative AI voice cloning tools only need a minute of voice data–which is often scraped from social media–to create a result that is almost indistinguishable from the original.
The potential of this technology is vast. Microsoft, for example, has recently piloted an AI tool that, with a short sample of a person's voice, can generate audio in a wide range of different languages. While this has not been released for public use, it illustrates how much voice as a medium can be manipulated.
The appeal of voice recognition in banking
Voice recognition has a multitude of benefits. It is accessible to a diverse range of consumers, who only need a phone line to perform banking tasks. Voice recognition programs can often pick up a voiceprint much faster than a person can type, which streamlines and reduces friction in the banking process for consumers without needing to enter complex passwords.
“Historically, voice biometrics has been seen as an intimate and infallible part of a person's identity. For that reason, many businesses and financial institutions used it as a part of their identity verification toolbox,” says Geva.
Audio recognition technology has been an attractive security solution for financial services companies across the globe, with voice-based accounting enabling customers to deliver account instructions via verbal commands. Voice biometrics offers real-time authentication, which replaces the need for security questions or even PINs. One of the UK's biggest banks, for example, integrated Siri to facilitate mobile banking payments without the need to open or log into the banking app. An Abu Dhabi based bank introduces a biometric voice and voice-based authentication platform for e-commerce which uses biometric sensors built into a standard smartphone.
“As voice-cloning becomes a viable threat, financial institutions need to be aware of the possibility of widespread fraud in voice-based interfaces. For example, a scammer could clone a consumer's voice and transact on their behalf,” says Geva.
Do South African banks need to do away with voice authentication altogether?
Not necessarily. Thankfully, banks do not rely on a single form of authentication when performing a transaction. As the threat of cyber fraud grows, a rising number of local banks are investing in cutting-edge, multi-layered biometric authentication protocols.
Geva adds, “Our experience in mitigating fraud and our research into rising AI-enabled cybercrime trends has led us to believe that voice authentication can be made safer if it is bolstered by additional remote digital verification methods. We recommend to banking clients that they adopt multimodel identity verification, especially for sensitive transactions.”
In conclusion, voice biometrics in banking still serves several customers, particularly those who may need access to smartphone apps or in-person banking. While fraud risks abound, voice cloning is less of a threat to the public as it is difficult to roll out at scale as criminals would need to have access to substantial personal information for each target. AI voice cloning technology may be cheaper and more accurate, but, if banks employ up-to-date, enterprise-grade biometric authentication processes, they will be better protected.
Geva concludes, “While identity theft is growing in scale and sophistication, the tools we have at our disposal to prevent fraud are intelligent, scalable and up to the challenge. At iiDENTIFii, we believe that face biometrics remains the strongest form of biometrics, as the face can be matched against a government issued, trusted ID document, whereas a voice cannot. This approach is trusted by our clients, which include five of South Africa's leading banks.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of iiDENTIFii.
About iiDENTIFii:
iiDENTIFii is an award-winning face authentication and identity verification platform that distinguishes itself through its use of 3D and 4D Liveness® detection. Purpose-built for enterprises across Africa and the Middle East, iiDENTIFii enables frictionless, scalable customer onboarding in seconds from anywhere and on any device. Founded in 2018, iiDENTIFii has become a proven key partner in multiple tier 1 African banks. The technology plugs seamlessly into existing infrastructures, including mobile and web-based platforms. www.iiDENTIFii.com
Peacebuilders Unite to Relaunch Tales of Turning Before the Upcoming Elections
The upcoming elections are a turning point in South Africa’s democratic journey and the high stakes pave the way for mis- and disinformation. The relaunch of Tales of Turning – which harnesses research, social media, and technology for good – comes at a crucial moment in the country’s history. Renowned peacebuilders, Geoffrey Mamputa and Stefan …
Over 5 million travellers processed over festive season, says Agency
Over 5 million travellers processed over festive season, says Agency
The Border Management Authority (BMA) announced on Sunday that it processed over five million travellers through South African borders over the festive period.
“The 2023/2024 festive season was a remarkable time where a noticeable increase in the movement of persons and goods entering and exiting the Republic of South Africa was experienced,” said Commissioner of the BMA, Dr Mike Masiapato.
He said between 6 December 2023 and 18 January 2024, the agency lawfully processed 5 096 288 travellers across 71 ports of entry.
The latest data shows a one million increase in travellers compared to 2022/2023.
“However, this number of travellers is still one million less than the pre-COVID-19 average numbers of about six million travellers.”
Of the 5 096 288 travellers, 216 594 used private vehicles, 21 502 mini-bus taxis, 6 443 buses and 55 765 trucks through the movement control system.
In total, more than 13 050 aircraft were processed at international airports and approximately 709 vessels at seaports.
About 407 vessels underwent crew changes using the off-port limit mechanism in the maritime environment.
According to the data, OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) served the largest number of travellers, which was around 993 759.
The Lebombo land port of entry to Mozambique came second with 755 066 visitors, followed by the Beitbridge land port of entry to Zimbabwe with 745 563 travellers.
Compared to the 2022/2023 festive period, ORTIA, Lebombo, and Beitbridge recorded an increase in traveller volume of 22%, 24%, and 25%, respectively.
“As you may recall, we increased our human resource capacity and the operating hours in some selected ports of entry which do not operate on a 24-hour basis.”
The BMA mandate is to facilitate and manage the legitimate movement of people and goods across 71 ports of entry of which 52 are land, 10 are international airports and nine are seaports.
Their work covers areas of immigration, port health, environmental and agricultural biosecurity, including access control and general law enforcement at the ports of entry and border law enforcement areas.
“Although our primary job as the BMA is to facilitate the legitimate movement of people, we also have to deal with individuals who attempt to illegitimately move through our ports of entry and the border law enforcement areas.”
He told the media that the agency detected about 15 924 individuals who were attempting to enter South Africa without requisite documentation.
“In this instance, after intercepting them, we took their fingerprints, declared them undesirable and banned them from re-entering South Africa for five years and kept the record in the Biometric Movement Control System and got them deported,” he explained.
The majority of interceptions occurred at the Lebombo land port of entry with 6 808, followed by 1 891 at the Beitbridge land port of entry.
Meanwhile, 6,455 travellers were denied entry into South Africa for being undesirable, including those who committed crimes in other countries and appeared on the Interpol red list.
In addition, about 4 626 travellers were refused entry for being for having invalid passports, fraudulent visas or failing to produce valid yellow fever certificates.
This means 27 005 people were deported while attempting to enter South Africa illegally.
During this period, the agency also observed an increased detection rate of the undesirables due to the utilisation of the Biometric Movement Control Systems (BMCS).
The Commissioner raised his concern at public transporting companies that continue to transport illegal migrants.
During this period, the BMA imposed about 98 administrative fines to various conveyancers especially bus companies to the value of R3 540 000 for transporting illegal migrants at the cost of R15 000 per person.
At the same time, they collected about R9.8 million in outstanding fines from about 25 bus companies.
“In this regard, they have committed to ensuring that valid passports would be required from all travellers when procuring cross border tickets and for entering into the bus on travel day.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 01/28/2024 - 12:19
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Over R6 million pledged for kids of slain police officers
Over R6 million pledged for children of slain police officers
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has observed this year’s National Police Day by raising funds for the children of police officers who died in the line of duty.
“On National Police Day, the SAPS remembers the sacrifices that our men and women in blue have made and continue to make as they provide safety for all who live in South Africa,” the police statement read.
Cabinet approved 27 January as National Police Day in 2005.
The latest data shows that the SAPS lost 140 police officers in the last four years. These, according to the police, are men and women in blue who died in the line of duty, serving and protecting all people living in South Africa.
“The majority of them were breadwinners in their families.”
On Thursday, 25 January 2024, more than 100 golf players from various corporate companies across the country came together to pledge and raise funds for the South African Police Education Trust Fund (SAPSET).
According to SAPS, R6.6 million rand was raised and will go towards the educational needs of the children.
SAPSET currently funds children from Grade RR to the tertiary level.
To date, the fund has assisted 1 078 children, of which 54 have graduated and 146 of them have passed matric and have a National Senior Certificate (NSC).
The management of the SAPS, led by Police Minister General Bheki Cele, expressed gratitude to all the sponsors and donors for their support.
“These funds go a long way in making a meaningful difference in the lives of these children left behind. The least we can do is to ensure these children don’t carry the extra burden of stressing about school fees, books, and school uniforms knowing their educational needs have been taken care of.
“We hope more corporates and the overall business fraternity will in future come on board to support this cause,” said Cele.
The National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, thanked all the men and women in blue for risking their lives daily to keep all people in South Africa safe.
“On this day, we pay gratitude to you, our men and women in blue, who work tirelessly to hunt down dangerous criminals, remove illegal and unlicensed firearms, remove drugs off our streets and work hard to ensure successful convictions in court for perpetrators of crime.”
He encouraged the police members to continue to work hard to rid the country of criminality.
“We urge communities to embrace our police officers and work together with them to stop the killing of our own. From January 2023 to date, 33 police officers were killed on duty and today we are laying a Constable to rest who was run over by a truck while assisting at an accident scene in KwaZulu-Natal. These killings have to stop, and they can only stop if communities take a stand against them,” Masemola added.
SAPSSET is managed by a board of trustees under the leadership of Vuyani Jarana whose responsibility it is to ensure they source and raise funds to keep children in school. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 01/28/2024 - 07:39
137 views
Basic Education Committee Delegation Visits Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN) Schools for Readiness Inspection
A delegation of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education undertook a two-day oversight visit to schools in Kwa-Zulu Natal to assess their readiness for the 2024 academic year. The delegation visited five schools in the uThukela and uMzinyathi education districts over this period and engaged with several stakeholders in the education sector.
The leader of the delegation, Ms Nombuyiselo Adoons, said the delegation focused on areas that included infrastructure, ablution facilities, monitoring of Grade R/early childhood development sites as per the 2022 departmental migration shift; delivery of learner-teacher support material; nutrition, learner transport, special schools support, and meeting with stakeholders to discuss the state of schooling in 2024.
Ms Adoons said several schools that the delegation visited had been damaged by floods and strong winds and they are in need of repairs. She said the temporary measures have been put in place to alleviate the immediate challenges they are facing. “We must commend the provincial department for the speedy action in assisting the schools. However, we realised that this will now impact further on the budget – most probably that of infrastructure and repairs that were planned,” she said.
The delegation commended Muntuza Primary School for its excellent performance. It is a full service school with Grade R facilities and have been piloted for Robotics and Coding. “The school is doing well. The school is clean. It is one of the models that other schools can learn from,” said Ms Adoons.
At Njeza High School the delegation found that the roof of some buildings had been blown off by storms. “It was not in a good shape but mobile classrooms are in place to alleviate the situation. We are grateful for this as it means teaching and learning is not affected.” She said the delegation further noted some pit toilets. However, a contractor was on site and in the process of eradicating the “inappropriate ablution” facilities.
Ngibongeleni High School and Sihayo Technical Comprehensive School have challenges with fluctuating Grade 12 results. “It's like a yo-yo effect. We recommended intervention to assist the schools and it clearly has the potential to improve.”
The delegation also visited Pro Nobis Special School that cater mostly for learners on the autism spectrum. It noted that the school has adequate infrastructure even though it needs some refurbishment or upgrades. The provincial department indicated that new scholar transport will reach the school by the end of February as it is being fitted for the specifications for learners with special needs.
According to her common challenges they noted at many schools they visited were high electricity and water bills, vandalism and burglaries due to lack of security. “Firstly, we would like to appeal to the communities to assist with this. This impacts your children's education and future. Security manpower means extra expenses that could have gone towards the education of our learners. Let's stand together and stand up against criminality in our schools,” stressed Ms Adoons.
The oversight visit was concluded with a meeting with stakeholders, including the MEC for education in the province. Ms Adoons said: “All our concerns over the two days were noted and responded to. The provincial department of basic education indicated that it has been impacted by budget cuts from National Treasury.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Basic Education: Republic of South Africa.
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