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Process to procure nuclear energy to launch

Location: News

Process to procure nuclear energy to begin

South Africa will soon begin the procurement process for some 2 500MW of nuclear energy.

Minister in The Presidency responsible for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, announced this during a media briefing on Tuesday.

The Minister explained that the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) had to satisfy a raft of rigorous National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) suspensive conditions, which take into account various factors before the go-ahead could be issued.

“The DMRE submitted a report to the regulator addressing suspensive conditions in July of 2023. NERSA still had an obligation to satisfy itself if the response from the DMRE to the suspensive conditions are sufficient for NERSA to consider giving this process the greenlight.

“I am happy to indicate that… NERSA considered the DMRE submission… and concluded that the suspensive conditions had been satisfactorily addressed. We are triggering now... essentially a procurement process. We are going out to ensure that we are able to get that additional 2 500MW of nuclear capacity to ensure that we are able to meet issues of national security and energy sovereignty,” Ramokgopa said.

During the briefing, the DMRE said it is looking to release requests for proposals for nuclear by March 2024. 

The Minister emphasised that the move is a significant milestone because historically, "the process was mired in controversy".

“We are happy that we’ve been able to iron out the issues related to how the procurement process needs to unfold. We have met the regulatory requirements as per… the legal requirement and now we have the concurrence of NERSA, we are able to proceed.

“This is profound and what it does is to cement our unassailable position as a country, as a leader on the continent in relation to nuclear generation capacity and also the skills profile that we have,” he said.

The Ministerial determination and NERSA’s concurrence is expected to be gazetted soon.

Ramokgopa assured that while government continues to build towards energy security in the future, energy continues to be poured into addressing the immediate challenge of load shedding.

“Nuclear… gives us a significant and important platform for us to be able to ensure that we are able to secure a energy future for ourselves, energy sovereignty for ourselves. Of course, we continue to make every effort to address load shedding because the benefit of what we are announcing, you are not going to see it tomorrow, in a year’s time, you won’t see it in two years’ time… [In] three to four years, that’s when you’ll begin to see the benefits.

“But in the meantime, it’s important that we address the challenges with regards to the immediate problem of load shedding, whilst we secure the energy future, we don’t run into the same problem again in the future and nuclear has proven to be a reliable source of energy,” he said.

South Africa currently has one nuclear power station, Koeberg, located in the Western Cape. The station has two units, which produce 980MW, according to the Minister.

    Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) 2019

    During the briefing, Ramokgopa highlighted that Eskom’s current power station fleet is ageing – meaning that South Africa will have to generate additional sources of energy.

    In this regard, the Minister alluded to the IRP 2019’s call for the commencement of “preparations for a nuclear build programme… at a pace and scale that the country can afford”, in anticipation of the need to supplement future energy demand when power stations reach their end of life.

    Nuclear energy forms part of the IRP 2019’s future envisaged energy mix for South Africa.

    “Part of the reason we are here with regards to the energy crisis is that generation can’t meet demand and therefore we need to have additional generation capacity… to help us to ensure that we are able to secure the country’s future,” Ramokgopa said.

    According to the DMRE website, South Africa only generates about 6% of its electricity from nuclear energy generated at the Koeberg power station.

    The Minister emphasised that the power station has been in operation for about 40 years, “incident free”.

    “Now we are in the period of extension of life of Koeberg. We want to secure another 20 years of life of Koeberg. Unit 1 had gone out to meet the regulatory requirements for purposes of meeting the conditions for extension of life. After a significant amount of delays of about four months, now Unit 1 is running on full load.

    “Yesterday [Monday], we then removed Unit 2 for purposes of meeting those regulatory requirements and… we are expecting that by August of next year, Unit 2 should come back,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za

    NeoB
    Tue, 12/12/2023 - 10:41

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    Why Enact Tourists Visit Soweto

    Location: MyPR

    Exploring the Heart of South Africa: A Journey Through Soweto Soweto, located to the southwest of Johannesburg, is not just South Africa’s most populous township; it’s a place brimming with historical and cultural richness. With a population estimated between two to four million, it encapsulates a spectrum of socioeconomic backgrounds, from areas of poverty to …

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    Imax And Pathé Live Announce The Global Release Of “Queen Rock Montreal”

    Location: Entertainment, MyPR

    EXCLUSIVELY IN STER-KINEKOR IMAX THEATRES IN SA, LIMITED SCREENINGS FROM 18 JANUARY 2024 IMAX and Pathé Live in partnership with Mercury Studios and Queen Films has announced that, for the very first time, one of the world’s biggest bands will perform on cinema’s biggest screens with the global release of “QUEEN ROCK MONTREAL,” exclusively in …

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    Freight Logistics Roadmap approved to be published

    Location: News

    Freight Logistics Roadmap approved to be published

    The Freight Logistics Roadmap – aimed at addressing the serious challenges in that industry – has been approved for publication by Cabinet.

    The roadmap also sets out to reform the logistics system in the long run.

    Over the past few weeks, Transnet – South Africa’s government owned freight rail, ports and logistics company – has been hard at work to resolve severe truck congestion challenges at its Richard’s Bay port, including ramping up the number of locomotives available on its lines servicing the port.

    Speaking during a post-Cabinet media briefing on Monday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the current challenges in the industry “pose a significant constraint” on the South African economy, its growth prospects and job creation.

    “The immediate priority is to stabilise and improve the operational performance of the freight rail network, which presents a severe constraint on exports.

    “The main implementation mechanism for the short-term interventions will oversee operational improvement through five corridors, with full alignment with the Transnet board approved turnaround plan which identifies short and medium term actions to improve operations and stabilise the company’s finances,” she said.

    The three areas of intervention proposed in the roadmap include:

    • Operations and rolling stock improvements: This includes returning long-standing locomotives to service through agreements with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to ensure a supply of spares, or through the appointment of a step-in OEM.
    • Security and safety of the rail network: This includes collaboration with law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of the network.
    • A capital investment programme both for the expansion plans and also to sustain operations.

    “In addition, the roadmap outlines a path to implement the commitments made in the National Rail Policy and the National Commercial Ports Policy and plans for the reform of the freight logistics system,” she said.

    Meanwhile, the Draft Rail Private Sector Participation (PSP) Framework has been considered and approved by cabinet.

    According to Ntshavheni, the framework aims to “provide an interim approach to and a model for future decision-making to enable private sector participation in the railway infrastructure system”.

    “Given the current challenges within the railway infrastructure, the Rail PSP Framework proposes the commencement of private sector participation through opportunities that are aimed at fixing the railway infrastructure first.

    “The Rail PSP Framework recommended the adoption of the cooperative governance and integrated approach to rail private sector participation for implementation.

    “Accordingly, this approach is fully compliant to the PFMA and Company’s Act and will require the PSP unit within the Department of Transport and the Rail SOC to publish a network statement for endorsement by the Rail Economic Regulatory Capacity (interim),” Ntshavheni said.

    The Department of Transport is expected to establish a PSP unit to identify and prioritise projects and develop an implementation plan to facilitate PSP initiatives. – SAnews.gov.za

     

    NeoB
    Mon, 12/11/2023 - 11:36

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    PROTEC and partners prepare for expansion over ‘the next 40 years’

    Location: MyPR

    PROTEC, a national NPO that has been building successful STEM careers in South Africa since 1982, is closing the year with exciting plans and strategies for expanding the geographic reach, the number of teachers and learners to be impacted, and the range of programmes in PROTEC’s portfolio in forthcoming years. Balan Moodley, CEO of PROTEC, …

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    “25 years of HIV Management Excellence: AfroCentric Group ‘s Aid for AIDS (AfA) leads the charge to dismantle stigma and rebrand HIV”

    Location: MyPR

    As we observed World AIDS Day, it was both a moment of reflection on progress and a call to action for a crucial issue that still persists to this day. In Southern Africa, where HIV is the most severe globally, the battle against the virus extends beyond medical challenges and stretches to societal barriers built …

    Read more“25 years of HIV Management Excellence: AfroCentric Group ‘s Aid for AIDS (AfA) leads the charge to dismantle stigma and rebrand HIV”

    Business licensing policy up for public comment

    Location: News

    Business licensing policy up for public comment

    Cabinet has considered and approved the draft National Business Licensing Policy for public comments.

    This is according to Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni who briefed the media on the outcomes of the Special Cabinet meeting held last Friday.

    The Minister said the objectives of the policy are:

    • The provision of a fair, transparent and ethical allocation of business operating licenses in a manner that enables citizens to actively participate in an economic life.
    • The assertion and clarification of South Africa’s sovereign right to determine the business licensing conditions for foreign nationals in line with the country’s national interests.
    • The development and implementation of smart and effective licensing arrangements that not only reduce regulatory burdens, but also drive empowerment of the previously marginalised communities, whilst reducing compliance burdens and facilitating ease of doing business.

    At Monday’s media briefing, Ntshavheni said Cabinet had approved the “introduction to Parliament [of] the SOC Holding Company Bill”.

    The bill proposes:

    • The consolidation of State’s shareholdings in strategic state-owned enterprises
    • The establishment of the State’s Asset Management SOC Ltd as a holding company for state shareholding of strategic SOE’s, with the state as a sole shareholder – SAnews.gov.za

     

    NeoB
    Mon, 12/11/2023 - 11:46

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    SA20 Lolly

    Location: Sport

    SA20 Lolly to take incredible ‘Taste of Summer’ on a countrywide tour Monday 11 December 2023: As temperatures rise, so does...

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    Health concerned about death rate among TB patients in SA

    Location: News

    Health concerned about death rate among TB patients in SA

    Although South Africa’s Tuberculosis (TB) infection incidence is dropping, government is disturbed about the death rate among patients.

    This is according to the Deputy Health Minister, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, who was delivering a keynote address on the opening day of the BRICS TB Research Network Innovation Summit in Durban. 

    “TB remains a pressing concern for South Africa, as it does for all BRICS countries and many nations,” he said on Monday. 

    He told the summit attendees that about 300 000 people are estimated to get TB every year in South Africa.

    “Last year alone, we managed to notify and put 224 000 people on a TB treatment regime. Although our infection incidence is declining, we are concerned about the unacceptable death rate among our TB patients.” 

    According to Dhlomo, a major driver of TB infection is HIV – accounting for 48% of TB patients who are living with HIV in 2022. 

    However, he said the country’s antiretroviral programme has led to a decrease in TB incidence. 

    The BRICS nations – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - carry a disproportionate burden of drug-susceptible and drug-resistant TB infection and neglected diseases of the South. 

    To address this public health threat, the BRICS TB Research Network was established in 2017 to bring together programme managers and scientists to exchange information and formulate redress strategies and solutions. 

    “The ultimate goal of this endeavour was to establish collaborative research programmes aimed at developing new diagnostics, drugs, and vaccines for TB. 

    “The TB control programmes from the various representative countries also undertook to learn from each other on key aspects of financing and strengthening the health systems in their respective nations.” 

    Following the devastating impact of COVID-19 on public health programmes, South Africa developed a TB Recovery Plan to find missing people with TB linking them to care and creating a demand for testing. 

    “TB prevention and improvement of data systems are also prioritised. Given our high HIV-TB comorbidity let me give our delegates some data on HIV in South Africa.”

    He cited the sixth South African National HIV Prevalence, Incidence, and Behaviour among people aged 15 years and older living with HIV in South Africa in 2022. 

    According to the data, 90% were aware of their status, 91% of those aware of their status were on antiretroviral treatment, and 94% of those on antiretroviral treatment were virally suppressed. 

    “South Africa has made significant progress toward the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets that by 2025, 95% of all people living with HIV to be aware of their HIV status, 95% of those aware of their status to be on antiretroviral treatment, and 95% of those on antiretroviral treatment who also know that that they are living with HIV to achieve viral load suppression.”

    In addition, he stated that the country has been at the forefront of introducing and scaling up new tools for diagnosis and shorter treatment regimens for drug-resistant TB. 

    “However, there is a need to do more to improve linkage to care and retention in care.”

    He also believes that BRICS countries have made significant strides since the establishment of this network, with progress and some challenges. 

    Dhlomo touched on the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Meeting on TB, in New York, in September this year. 

    “We should, therefore, work very hard to ensure that we meet the targets we have set ourselves for this summit.”

    The targets, he said, include the creation of innovations in therapeutics, diagnostics, and vaccines that the network can prioritise for collaboration, investment and development. 

    “A world without TB is not just an aspiration but an attainable reality, and we should stand ready to play our part in making that vision a shared triumph. 

    “I certainly believe that this network can make a significant contribution to this end. Let us recommit to the implementation of the Political Declaration on TB as we map out of future endeavour of ending TB in BRICS countries. 

    “The goal to end TB is within our grasp. Our collective efforts must transcend borders, ideologies, and individual interests.” 

    Dhlomo also took the time to congratulate Russia as it takes the baton of leadership of BRICS in 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

     

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    Mon, 12/11/2023 - 11:48

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    Exploring the Vibrant Apartment Market in Cape Town

    Location: MyPR

    Introduction Cape Town, South Africa’s picturesque coastal city, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. This allure extends to its real estate market, particularly in the realm of apartments. This blog delves into the varied aspects of Cape Town’s apartment scene, offering insights for potential buyers. Diverse Neighborhoods Cape Town boasts …

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    ​​​​​​​Cabinet welcomes the evacuation of South Africans from Gaza

    Location: News

    ​​​​​​​Cabinet welcomes the evacuation of South Africans from Gaza

    Cabinet has welcomed the return of 19 South African nationals who had been stuck in Gaza.

    “South Africa extends its gratitude to the Government of Egypt for granting our citizens safe passage through the Rafah Crossing into its country.

    “South Africa calls for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the resumption of talks that will end the violence arising from the continued belligerent occupation and lays the basis for a just and lasting solution,” Cabinet said in a statement on Monday.

    The six males and 13 females, who were in Gaza since 7 October 2023, are now back on home soil.

    Last week, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation said the 19 locals who were approved for evacuation into Egypt by the Israeli authorities on Sunday, 11 November 2023, were en route to South Africa.

    In a statement last month, Cabinet said it remained concerned by the atrocities of the Israeli government against the people of Palestine, including the deliberate attacks on the United Nations School in Gaza, and the massacre of hundreds of children who had sought refuge at the school. This is in addition to the continued attacks on hospital staff, patients and hospital infrastructure. – SAnews.gov.za

     

     

    Edwin
    Mon, 12/11/2023 - 11:57

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    Operation Vulindela making “significant progress”

    Location: News

    Operation Vulindela making “significant progress”

    The Presidency and National Treasury have released the third and fourth quarter progress report of Operation Vulindlela.

    The report was released during a media briefing on Monday.

    Operation Vulindlela was launched in 2020 and is an initiative between Treasury and the Presidency aimed at, among other things, accelerating the implementation of structural reforms and to support South Africa’s economic recovery.

    The five desired outcomes of Operation Vulindlela are:

    • Stabilising of the electricity supply
    • Reduce cost and increased quality of digital communications
    • Sustainable water supply to meet demand
    • Competitive and efficient freight transport
    • A visa regime that attracts skills and grows tourism

    National Treasury’s Nomvuyo Guma said: “In the time that Operation Vulindela has been in operation, we’ve been able to make significant progress in accelerating these reforms”.

    The key achievements for quarters three and four are:

    • Analogue switch-off (ASO) was completed for all frequencies above 694 Megahertz (MHz) to enable the use of spectrum for mobile telecommunications. This key reform will improve network quality, reduce data costs and expand digital access.
    • The Electricity Regulation Amendment (ERA) Bill is on track in the National Assembly, with hearings completed in all provinces. The Bill represents a fundamental reform of the energy sector, and will establish a competitive energy market.  
    • Three units at Kusile power station were returned to service ahead of schedule. This additional capacity has enabled a reduction in the severity of load shedding, with work underway to complete the remaining units at Kusile and Medupi power stations in 2024.
    • Eskom launched the Cross Border Standard Offer Programme (CBSOP). This programme enables Eskom to purchase up to 1 000 MW power of power on a short-term basis from utilities and Independent Power Producers in neighbouring countries. 
    • The Minister of Public Enterprises announced the appointment of a permanent board for Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA). This will replace the current interim board and is a crucial step in the process of establishing the TNPA as a subsidiary of Transnet.
    • An international terminal operator was selected to partner with Transnet at the Durban Pier 2 container terminal. This will crowd in private investment and management expertise to improve the performance of South Africa’s largest container terminal.
    • The Department of Home Affairs launched the Trusted Employer Scheme, which is a key recommendation of the work visa review. The scheme will allow major investors and large employers to follow a streamlined process with improved turnaround times.
    • A One Stop Shop was established for energy projects to accelerate private investment. The One Stop Shop will facilitate regulatory authorisations for energy projects, with the aim of establishing a single, fully electronic application process.

    Looking long term

    Looking at the overall achievements of Operation Vulindela over the past three years, Guma said government’s “legislative agenda has continued to make progress”.

    “We’ve made some regulatory changes to allow private investment in electricity generation. We are currently tracking an energy pipeline of renewables that is up to 66GW at this stage. From an investment point of view, what we’ve tracked is a pipeline of over R200 billion worth of investments.”

    Turning to telecommunications, Guma said the spectrum auction concluded last year has “resulted in an immediate boost of R14 billion to the fiscus” also resulted increased download and “increased investments into the sector”.

    Guma said a comprehensive review of the work visa system and the revised immigration regulations has also been completed.

    Other achievements since the launch of Operation Vulindela are:

    • The National Rail Policy adopted to guide the modernisation and reform of the rail sector, including third-party access to the network
    • Backlog of water use licenses has been cleared and license application system re-engineered, unlocking billions of Rands in investment
    • Private sector participation introduced in container terminals, to crowd in investment and improve the efficiency of port operations
    • eVisa system expanded to 34 countries, with almost all countries now covered by either a visa waiver or eVisa
    • Legislative reforms underway to create a transport economic regulator, reform the electricity sector, and establish a National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency

    The full progress report can be accessed at https://www.stateofthenation.gov.za/operation-vulindlela - SAnews.gov.za

    NeoB
    Mon, 12/11/2023 - 12:38

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    SIU, Interpol NCB sign MoU

    Location: News

    SIU, Interpol NCB sign MoU

    The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Interpol National Central Bureau (NCB) for South Africa that will allow the unit to have direct access to Interpol’s information system.

    “The MoU will strengthen the SIU’s investigating tools of trade and access to data systems to combat cybercrimes. Interpol NCB will provide the SIU with up-to-date training resources. The Interpol NCB has a network of data systems in 195 countries that the SIU can tap into,” the SIU said in a statement.

    The agreement was signed by SIU head Advocate Andy Mothibi and Interpol NCB’s Brigadier Ntime Mokhine.

    The SIU revealed more on the MoU and how this will strengthen the unit’s hand during investigations.

    “Advocate Mothibi said that this MoU is aligned with the SIU’s current cybercrimes and data analytics vision and the previous agreements that the SIU has signed to build data analytics and forensics capacity, especially in the war against transnational organised crimes. This will also provide the SIU with access to locate people outside of South Africa that the SIU needs to subpoena for questioning related to investigations.

    “Brigadier Mokhine explained that the importance of this MoU paves the way for Interpol to build relationships with South African law enforcement agencies while enabling Law Enforcement entities to extend their international reach,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

     

    NeoB
    Mon, 12/11/2023 - 14:18

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    SA to celebrate Universal Health Coverage Day

    Location: News

    SA to celebrate Universal Health Coverage Day

    South Africa will on Tuesday, 12 December, join the global community in celecrating the progress made towards health for all. 

    According to the Department of Health, government will also observe the day by raising awareness of the necessity for resilient, equitable, and robust healthcare systems to achieve the Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

    The Department of Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO) South Africa and other health sector stakeholders, will host a seminar to reinvigorate pledges to accelerate UHC efforts in South Africa.

    The 2023 UHC Day theme is ‘Health for All: Time to Act’. 

    “The theme emphasises the need for immediate and tangible steps to accelerate progress towards UHC, ahead of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030 deadline.”

    The seminar will be attended by 300 delegates from different stakeholders in the health sector and the Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, is expected to deliver a keynote address. 

    The event comes after the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) adopted the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill on 6 December 2023, a turning point for the country’s journey to achieve equal access to quality and affordable health care for all.

    Phaahla will later in the day join the Health Ombud, Professor Taole Mokoena, during a media briefing to release findings of the investigation reports emanating from complaints lodged against the Eastern Cape Department of Health, Motherwell NU 11 Clinic. – SAnews.gov.za

     

    Gabisile
    Mon, 12/11/2023 - 13:30

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    South Africa: 16 days are over, now the real work begins

    Location: News

    Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government
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    The 16 Days of Activism For No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign has come to an end, but now the real work begins and must continue every day.

    For the Western Cape Government (WCG), addressing gender-based violence is not limited to the period of 25 November to 10 December. It is a priority throughout the year.

    The Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) has been leading the roll-out of the WCG GBV Implementation Plan. The plan has assisted us in the planning, coordination, and monitoring of efforts that aim to address GBV, directly and indirectly.

    It fortifies current GBV services and interventions and allows us to explore new opportunities, like the geo-mapping system the DSD has developed to track the prevalence of GBV in the province and allocate resources accordingly.

    “We are doing as much as we can to stem the tide of violence, and support survivors, but government is not the sole agent of change. We are already seeing the very real impact of the 2023 national wage agreement and national budget pressures. Due to the significant cuts from national government in the Adjusted Budget for 2023/24, the Department reduced and reprioritized funding allocations to several sub-programmes, including the Victim Empowerment Programme (VEP),” says Provincial Minister of Social Development Sharna Fernandez.

    “This unprecedented cut in the current financial year – and projected reductions in the new financial year – meant we had to halt the opening of a new GBV shelter in Murraysburg. While further cuts are speculative at this stage, I am deeply concerned about the NGO and NPO sector, as well as DSD staff who may have to deal with the increased demand for services. Now more than ever, we need our partners across society to take hands with NGOs in the GBV space that are providing crucial services to survivors and their children. Corporates and citizens who can support registered entities, I encourage you to do so.”

    The Department remains committed to supporting all those impacted by violence and abuse, whether women, children, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, or men.

    76 178 GBV survivors accessed psychosocial support services provided and funded by DSD in 2022/2023, a significant increase from 51 790 in 2020/21. DSD also funds 26 shelters across the province.

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

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    SA’s APRM Country Review Report to be launched

    Location: News

    SA’s APRM Country Review Report to be launched

    President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to attend the 20th anniversary celebration of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) to be held in Johannesburg, on Tuesday evening.

    “The APRM 20th Anniversary is being celebrated through a series of meetings and events from 10 to 14 December 2023 under the theme ‘Accelerating and Deepening Governance Reform, Measures, and Intervention,” the Presidency said in a statement.

    The review mechanism is an institution of the African Union voluntarily acceded to by Member States.

    The anniversary event includes the participation of current and former Heads of State and Government; the Chairperson of the African Union Commission; high-ranking officials from the African Union Commission; representatives of APRM governing structures, as well as delegates of African Union organs and entities, international organisations and civil society.

    The event will also mark the launch of the South Africa Second Generation Country Review Report.

    “The South African Second-Generation Country Review Report will give insights into the progress made by South Africa in various areas, highlighting its successes and identifying areas for improvement as per its recommendations.

    “The review process involves an in-depth analysis of a country's policies, institutions, and practices, conducted by a team of African experts,” the statement read.

    The Presidency explained that the APRM serves as an “African-owned and African-led platform for self-assessment, peer-learning, and experience sharing in democracy and good governance”.

    The mechanism, the Presidency added, promotes transparency, accountability and the sharing of best practices among African Union Member States in the following thematic areas:

    • democratic and political governance
    • economic management and governance
    • corporate governance
    • socio-economic development
    • state resilience

    “Since its inception, the mechanism has recorded a number of achievements including deepening democracy and good governance through its unique process of peer reviews and assessments.

    “The review processes have strengthened the participation of citizens in governance matters and fostered peer-to-peer engagements at the level of Heads of State and Government. In this way the Mechanism has become a means of realising the sacrosanct principle of African solutions to African problems.

    “The Mechanism fosters the adoption of policies, standards and practices that enable political stability, high economic growth, sustainable and inclusive development and accelerated regional and continental economic integration. This is enabled through the sharing of experiences and data,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

     

    NeoB
    Mon, 12/11/2023 - 13:37

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    Remembering President Mandela

    Location: News

    Remembering President Mandela

    Cabinet has joined the nation in reflecting on the life and legacy of the father of the nation and the first democratically elected President of South Africa, Tata  Nelson Mandela.

    The former President passed away on December 5, 2013, with this year marking a decade since his passing.

    “As we look ahead to the milestone of 30 Years of Freedom in 2024, along with our seventh National and Provincial elections, we can proudly say that our democracy remains strong,” Cabinet said in a statement on Monday.

    Tata Madiba, as he was affectionately known, died at the age of 95 at his Houghton home in Johannesburg, Gauteng.

    In his address to the National Council of Provinces in Parliament last week, Deputy President Paul Mashatile honoured the former President and called on leaders to recommit themselves to the former statesman's vision of providing a better life for all South Africans.  

    “We do not only recall but rededicate ourselves to the vision of our founding President - that of building a better life for all,” said Deputy President Mashatile. -SAnews.gov.za

     

    Edwin
    Mon, 12/11/2023 - 12:23

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    Deputy President on a working visit to Singapore

    Location: News

    Deputy President on a working visit to Singapore

    Deputy President Paul Mashatile arrived in Singapore on Sunday to begin the first leg of his three-day working visit to Southeast Asia. 

    According to the Presidency, the Deputy President began his visit with a tour of the Marina Barrage development, Singapore’s innovative water resource management project. 

    “As a resource-poor and water-scarce country, Singapore has invested significantly in research and development of water management and sustainability. Most impressively, the country has made big strides in the area of seawater desalination,” the statement read. 

    According to his Office, the Deputy President’s visit to the country is aimed at building and strengthening bilateral relations, particularly increasing trade, economic, knowledge and cultural exchange between the two States. 

    “Singapore is a global financial hub and is considered one of the premier asset management centres in Asia.” 

    The World Bank has ranked Singapore as the number one country in the world for ease of doing business since 2006, and the country is an important global aviation and maritime hub.

    In addition, the island country is also considered an important gateway for the export of goods and services to Southeast Asia and a hub for joint venture partnerships throughout Asia. 

    “It is an important centre for South African businesses looking for opportunities or expand operations on the continent.” 

    As part of his programme, Deputy President Mashatile will visit the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy.

    He will then deliver a public lecture on the 30 years of diplomatic relations between South Africa and Singapore titled ‘Celebrating a journey of mutual respect, strategic partnership and cooperation’. 

    He is accompanied by International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Candith Mashego-Dlamini; Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina; and Higher Education, Science and Innovation Deputy Minister Buti Manamela.

    The Communication and Digital Technologies Deputy Minister Philly Mapulane; Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Deputy Minister Magdalene Sotyu, and senior government officials are also among those travelling with the Deputy President. – SAnews.gov.za

     

    Gabisile
    Mon, 12/11/2023 - 10:12

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    Women’s football stars shine at the Hollywoodbets Super League Awards

    Location: MyPR

    The third season of the Hollywoodbets Super League has proven to be amazing as it continues to build on the foundations that have been laid in previous years. This season stands as a testament to the league’s exceptional quality, evident in an evening dedicated to honouring the outstanding South African female footballers who showcased extraordinary …

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    Africa’s Top 100 Business Opportunities to Watch in 2024

    Location: Business
    Activator HQ

    Despite rising food and fuel costs, weakening currencies, climate change effects, security threats, political instability, rolling power cuts, infrastructure limitations, and several economic and social challenges, Africa will be one of the fastest-growing regions in 2024.

    That's one of the key findings in the 2024 edition of the Top 100 Business Opportunities in Africa to Watch (https://apo-opa.co/47PmhYd), an annual selection of the continent's most lucrative business ideas and investment opportunities curated by Activator HQ.

    Following two years of slow post-COVID recovery, 2024 presents several interesting opportunities for business startup and growth in Africa. While Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, Kenya and countries across the continent offer unique opportunities and challenges for new business and investment, economies like Senegal, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Cote d'Ivoire, Rwanda, Burkina Faso, The Gambia and Benin could grow by more than 6% in 2024, twice higher than the global growth of 2.9% projected by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    The Africa Top 100, now in its 7th year, identifies specific business ideas and investment opportunities in over 30 growth markets, industries, value chains, and underserved niches across Africa. Each opportunity in the Top 100 is selected based on their relevance to local market needs, lucrativeness, competitive superiority, export potential, and innovation.

    “The new edition, which is the outcome of months of research and analyses that considered dozens of value propositions, market trends, demand-supply gaps, and business models across Africa, only consists of opportunities that have a minimum total addressable market value of $100 million,” said John-Paul T. Iwuoha, Founder and CEO of Activator HQ. “It is interesting to see from our 2024 selection that more business ideas and investment opportunities in Africa are actually borne from unmet market needs, difficult but highly-rewarding problems, and the megatrends we have identified that are currently shaping the continent (https://apo-opa.co/46Sd4gb).”

    As a developing region, Africa's deficits in food security, housing, finance, education, energy and other critical areas are inspiring innovative solutions, products, and services from a growing number of startups and growth-stage businesses on the continent. In essence, for entrepreneurs in Africa, problems are actually opportunities to unlock market value and create compelling value propositions.

    “Our mission at Activator HQ (www.ActivatorHQ.com) is to make it easier and faster for entrepreneurs to start and grow businesses in Africa. That's why our selection of business ideas features inspiring examples of real entrepreneurs, startups, and companies in Africa that are getting results and making impact on the ground,” Iwuoha said. “To reduce the barriers to startup, we have also developed bespoke and professionally-crafted business plans (https://apo-opa.co/470U6Ew) that can be downloaded and used to raise funding or guide the execution of a specific business idea.”

    Highlights from Activator HQ's 2024 Africa Top 100 Guide:

    • The food sector remains a multi-billion-dollar growth opportunity for the continent. The Africa Top 100 features several business ideas across the food value chain, from agricultural production to processing, marketing, and services in local and export markets.
    • The digital economy presents a $180 billion opportunity for Africa by 2025. With the world's youngest population, digital skills training and outsourcing is a strategic but underexplored market gap that brims with innovative ideas for new businesses and investments in Africa, particularly for high-demand skills like cybersecurity, data analytics, digital marketing, and software development.
    • The circular economy: recycling of waste, such as generating electric power from landfill waste, recovering scrap metals for reuse, and processing municipal wastewater into potable freshwater, hold interesting business and investment opportunities that could, conservatively, inject an additional $8 billion into the African economy according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
    • The energy value chain is rich with opportunities for Africa. The combination of climate change effects, rising renewable energy penetration, and soaring energy prices precipitated by the Russia-Ukraine war has created market gaps and opportunities for more African gas supplies to Europe. There are also opportunities for local substitution of cooking fuels like firewood and charcoal with natural gas, and solar power applications for cold chain solutions.
    • Financial services remain one of the fastest-growing and most lucrative sectors in Africa to watch in 2024. While payments and consumer finance usually get most of the attention, niche opportunities like diaspora investment funds and female-focused finance are spotlighted in the latest Africa Top 100 guide.

    “I am very proud of the meticulous work the team has put into the 2024 edition of the Africa Top 100,” Iwuoha continued. “In contrast to the mainstream stereotype of Africa as a ‘poor continent', the impressive ideas in this guide show the sheer abundance of opportunities in Africa for new businesses and investments. The spirit of entrepreneurship is bursting with energy on the continent and I am optimistic that many of the ideas in our 2024 edition will inspire new businesses, products, projects, investments, and income streams in the new year.”

    The Top 100 Business Ideas in Africa to Watch in 2024 is available on the Activator HQ website at https://apo-opa.co/41hkLvm.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Activator HQ.

    Media contact:
    John-Paul Iwuoha
    jp@activatorhq.com

    For more information about Activator HQ, visit:
    Website: www.ActivatorHQ.com
    Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/46Np8iY
    Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3uRABAT
    LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3NowFxL
    YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3NqTmkT

    About Activator HQ:
    Founded in 2013 as Smallstarter Africa and relaunched on its 10-year anniversary, Activator HQ is a market intelligence and capacity development firm that supports Africa-focused entrepreneurs with the insights, training, and guidance they need to succeed in the continent's promising but difficult markets. In the last decade, Activator HQ has trained over 30,000 entrepreneurs and business owners on startup and market entry strategy, fundraising, sales and growth strategy, business modelling, and turnarounds. Its list of clients and partners includes the Staff Cooperative Societies of Nigeria LNG and Total Exploration & Production (Nigeria), the SUN Business Network, the Roddenberry Foundation, and the African Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF), among others.

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    Amid rising corruption, most Africans say they risk retaliation if they speak up

    Location: News
    Afrobarometer

    A majority of Africans say that corruption in their country is rising, that their government is failing in its efforts to fight it, and that ordinary citizens risk retaliation if they report corruption to the authorities, Afrobarometer's (www.Afrobarometer.org) latest Pan-Africa Profile (https://apo-opa.co/41k8N4i) reveals.

    Download document (1): https://apo-opa.co/3NmOey6
    Download document (2): https://apo-opa.co/3RDm193

    Released ahead of International Anti-Corruption Day (9 December), the Afrobarometer report is based on nationally representative surveys in 39 African countries.

    Findings show that among key public institutions, the police are most widely perceived as corrupt. In substantial numbers, citizens report having to pay bribes to obtain police assistance or avoid problems with the police, as well as to get government documents and services at health facilities and schools.

    Citizens' assessments vary widely across countries, with Gabon, South Africa, Nigeria, Liberia, and Uganda among the worst-performing countries when it comes to perceived corruption in key public institutions, while Seychelles, Cabo Verde, Tanzania, and Mauritius turn in the best performances.

    Key findings

    • On average across 39 countries, a majority (58%) of Africans say corruption increased “somewhat” or “a lot” in their country during the preceding year (Figure 1).
      • Compared to 2014/2015, 12 countries recorded double-digit increases in perceptions of worsening corruption, including a surge of 39 percentage points in Senegal, while decreases reached a remarkable 61 points in Benin.
      • More than two-thirds (68%) of citizens say “some” or “a lot” of the resources intended to address the COVID-19 pandemic were lost to corruption.
    • Almost half (46%) of Africans say that “most” or “all” police officials are corrupt, the worst rating among 11 institutions and leaders the survey asked about. Tax officials, civil servants, and officials in the Presidency tie for second-worst, at 38% (Figure 2).
    • Among citizens who sought selected public services during the previous year, substantial proportions say they had to pay a bribe to obtain police assistance (36%), to avoid problems with the police (37%), to get a government document (31%), or to receive services at a public medical facility (20%) or a public school (19%) (Figure 3).
      • Self-reported bribe-paying varies widely across countries. For example, obtaining a government document required a bribe from 68% of applicants in Congo-Brazzaville, compared to 1% in Cabo Verde and Seychelles.
    • Two in three Africans (67%) say their government is doing a poor job of fighting corruption (Figure 4).
    • Only one in four Africans (26%) say people can report corruption to the authorities without fear of retaliation (Figure 5).

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afrobarometer.

    For more information, please contact:
    Daniel Iberi
    Afrobarometer communications officer for East Africa
    Email: diberi@afrobarometer.org
    Telephone: +254725674457

    Follow us on:
    Twitter: https://apo-opa.info/3jYM2la
    Facebook: https://apo-opa.info/3K0t6gq
    YouTube: https://apo-opa.info/3Ysf4IU
    Visit us online at www.Afrobarometer.org
    Follow our releases on #VoicesAfrica.

    Afrobarometer surveys:
    Afrobarometer is a pan-African, non-partisan survey research network that provides reliable data on African experiences and evaluations of democracy, governance, and quality of life. Nine survey rounds in up to 42 countries have been completed since 1999. Round 9 surveys (2021/2023) cover 39 countries.

    Afrobarometer's national partners conduct face-to-face interviews in the language of the respondent's choice with samples of 1,200-2,400 adults that yield country-level results with margins of error of +/-3 to +/-2 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.

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