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2023 African Peace Award Winners

Location: News
African Peace Magazine

I bring you compliments from the board and management of African Peace Magazine UK (https://AfricanPeace.org/). 

Download the document: https://apo-opa.co/49G8Mex

On behalf of the Chairman Justice Suleiman Galadima, JSC, OFR, CFR (Rtd.), the board and management of African Peace Magazine UK, humbly wish to specially invite you to attend the Hybrid Award with the Theme: Africa is open for business: Strategic and Impactful Investment in Africa – That would facilitate peace and achieve sustainability goals.

The  African  Peace  Magazine  UK,  in  conjunction  with  her  strategic  partners: Rethink Africa Foundation, African Fact Checkers, Centre for  peace and Conflict  management  in  Africa, African Right Watch Television Ltd and several others  is  set  to  host  the prestigious 13th Edition of African Peace Award at Hotel Hilton Garden Inn Dallas Arlington South USA on the 10th December 2023.

The event is designed to host business, political, and diplomatic leaders. It is set to have in attendance, policy makers, and think-tanks on Africa and Africa-related issues.

The African Peace Magazine introduces its awards in the hopes of promoting peace globally and specifically in Africa with the hope of effecting change in Africa first and then globally. 

The event is designed to host business, political, and diplomatic leaders. It is set to have in attendance, policy makers and think-tanks on Africa and Africa related issues. The African Peace awards 2023 seeks to honor persons, institutions, organization, governments and others whose actions, and efforts have in one way improved or contributed to peace keeping and conflict management in Africa as well as improving the lives of Africans.

Several African Presidents, Heads of Government, first ladies, Past President and Vice Presidents, top business Executives, diplomats and others have received the award.

The past recipients of Award includes: H.E, the former Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, GCON, The former First Lady of The Federal Republic Nigeria, H.E, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, Hon Justice Stella Anukam Judge of the African Court on Human and Peoples Right. The former President of Sierra Leone, H.E  Ernest Bai Koroma, Secretary to the Federation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Boss Gidahyelda Mustapha Esq, The First Lady of Kwara State, H.E Amb. Dr. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, H.E the former First Lady of Taraba State, H.E Bar. Anna Mbasugun Darius Ishaku, Chief Akin Olujinmi SAN former Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Mike Ozek home SAN, Ahmed Raji SAN, Prof. Anthony Adegbulugbe, Chairman of Green Energy International Ltd and former SA to the President of Nigeria. H.E. Professor Monique Oshame Ekpong (KSJI), the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the Republic of Angola

Prof Bolaji Owasonye SAN, The former Chairman of Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, The President of the ECOWAS Court Hon Justice Edward Amoako Asante, Babatunde Irukera Esq, Chief Executive Officer Federal Consumer Protection Council and several others

APM, organizers of the Prestigious African Peace Awards, through its Awards committee has unveiled the following persons as the winners of the African Peace Award 2023 in various categories.

The winners:

Ms. Amina J. Mohammed
The Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group

HE. Mutinta Hichilema
The first lady of Zambia

H.E Fatima Maada Bio
The First Lady of Sierra Leone

H.E Mrs. Samia Suluhu Hassan
President of Tanzania

Dr. Demola Sogunle
Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC 

Mr. Gaspar Martins
Chairman/ CEO of Sonangol Angola 

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Director-General of the World Trade Organization

H. E Fuad Ademola Adeyemi
H.E Sanusi Kaura Mohammed
H.E Liman Munir Yusuf
H.E Mohammed Onawo Ogoshi
H.E Ojogbane Adegbe
H.E Suleiman Abdul Rahman
H.E Dickson Dominic Tarkighir
Gen Aliyu Gusau

H.E Auxillia Mnangagwa, 
The first lady of Zimbabwe

Mr. Akindele Akintoye,
Chairman, Platform Capital

Mpumi Mpofu,
CEO, Airports Company South Africa

João Figueiredo
CEO, of Moza Banco

H.E Nadia Alaoui,
Morocco

Othman Benjelloun
CEO of BMCE Bank of Africa

Chief (Dr.) Mike Ozekhome
SAN, CON  

H.E Joao Baptista Borges
Hon Minister Angola 

H.E  Nialé Kaba
Ivorian Minister for Planning and Development

H.E  Philip Mpango
Tanzania's Vice-President

H.E Verde José Ulisses Correia e Silva
Prime Minister of Cabo

H.E Sahle-Work Zewde
Ethiopia's President

H.E Tiemoko Meyliet Koné
Ivorian Vice President

H.E Patrick Achi
Ivorian Prime Minister

H.E Mahamudu Bawumia
Ghanaian Vice President

H.E. Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali
President of Guyana

H.E. Gaston Browne
Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda

HE Peter Mutharika
Former President of Malawi

H.E. Dr. Terrance M. Dew
Prime Minister, St. Kitts and Nevis

HE Philip J. Pierre
Prime Minister of St. Lucia

HE Lazarus Chakwera
President of Malawi

Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim
Former President of Mauritius

HE Ralph Gonsalves
Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

HE Julius Maada Bio
President of Sierra Leone

H.E. Hage Geingob
President of Namibia

HE Patricia Scotland
Secretary General of the Commonwealth

HE Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete
Former President of Kenya

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
WHO Director-General

H.E Princess Fifi EJINDU
Abuja Nigeria

H.E António Henriques da SILVA
Luanda Angola

H.E Bento dos SANTOS
Luanda Angola

H.E Senator Grace FOLASHADE
Luanda Angola

 H.E Sabena JOHANNES
Luanda Angola

H.E Téte António,
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Luanda Angola

H.E Mário de Oliveira
Minister of Telecommunications Information, Technology and Social Communication

H.E Ricardo d´Abreu
Minister of Transport
Luanda Angola

H.E Domingos Vieira LOPES
The Secretary of State for International Cooperation His Excellency.
Luanda Angola

Hajia Bola Muinat Shagaya
MON

Abdul Samad Rabiu
CFR, CON, is the Chairman of BUA Cement Plc

Jacques Piekarski
Chief Financial Officer / Executive Director of BUA Cement Plc

Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard
Founder and Chairman of APO

Senator Daisy Danjuma
Executive Vice Chairman of SAPETRO South Atlantic Petroleum Limited

Joycee Awosika
Founder of Nigeria First Wellness Spa Franchise

His Excellency Kashim Shettima Mustapha GCON
Vice President Federal Republic of Nigeria

Aliko Dangote GCON
Chairman, and CEO of the Dangote Group

Craig Morkel
Chairperson - Gas Economy Leadership Team at South African Oil & Gas Alliance (SAOGA)

Simone Santi
President Leonardo Group
Mozambique

Mike-Anthony Johnson
CEO JIC Holdings

Hon Dr. Abike Kafayat Oluwatoyin Dabiri-Erewa
OON, CEO,NIDCOM (Nigerians In Diaspora Commission)

Mr. Elliot Ibe,FNAPE
President, Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE)

Her Excellency, Dr. Esperanca da Costa
Vice President of the Republic of Angola

Dr. Jose Chinjamba
Board of Director, Angola's Agency for Private Investment and Exports Promotion (AIPEX)

Engr. Felix Obike,
The Chairman, Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE)

Mr. Gwueke Ajaifia
(Executive Director) Oil Producers Trade Section (opts)

Mr. Gabriel Idahosa, FCA
President Lagos chamber of commerce and industry Alausa Lagos

Festus Osifo
Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN)

Bala M. Wunti
The Group General Manager of the National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS),

Mr. Farouk Ahmed 
The Authority Chief Executive, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA)

The President, Eze, Sir Mike Elechi, JP, FNIM, NPOM

The President of Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (PHCCIMA)

Mele Kolo Kyari OFR
Group Chief executive officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum company limited (NNPC limited)

Mr. Umar Isa Ajiya 
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Nigerian National Petroleum company limited (NNPC limited)

Senator Hagiya Habibah Ireti Kingiba

Mario A. Caetano Joao
Minister of Economy and planning Angola

Markus Klaushofer
Chief Executive Officer Bei Alanova Aviation Partners

Francisco Mendes
Managing Partner Mc Kinsey and Company Angola

Ansalmo Neves
Director Regional Banco de Fomento Angola

Daniel Pires
President of the Textile Industrial Forum Angola

Jorge Cruz
Professor Agostinho Neto University Angola

His Excellency Dr. Diamantino Pedro Azevedo
Minister of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas of the Republic of Angola

Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim
Secretary General of the African Petroleum Producers' Organization, APPO

Silvester Scott Beaman of Delaware

Chair Mimi Alemayehou of Washington DC

Rosalind Brewer of Georgia

Viola Davis of Rhode Island

Helene D. Gayle of Georgia

Patrick Hubert Gaspard of New York

C.D. Glin of Connecticut

Osagie Imasogie of Pennsylvania

Almaz Negash of California

Chinenye Joy Ogwumike of Texas

Ham Serunjogi of California 

Kevin Young of Washington, D.C.

Deniece Laurent-Mantey
Rev Dr Michael Evans
Pastor Ropo Tusin
Pastor Laide Tusin
Theophilus Maku
Victoria Maku
Divine Oshideko
Shola Kareem
Dr Oladele Olusanya
Dr Edward Olutoke
Pastor Darolyn  Brock
Pastor Robert Madu
Pastor Victoria Madu
Belinda Babila
Hon. Bobby DigiOlisa
Festus Adenisimi

HE Joaquin Chissano
Former President of Mozambique

HE Jakaya Kikwete
Former President of Tanzania

HE Hailemariam Desalegn
Former Prime Minister of Ethiopia

Adaralegbe Akintayo
CEO of TPumpy Concept Limited

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Peace Magazine.

Attendance is strictly by invitation.
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International Affairs
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African Peace Magazine 
Email: africanpeacemag@gmail.com 

African Peace Magazine​
Website: https://AfricanPeace.org/
https://www.AfricanPeaceAwards.com/
https://AfricanOilAndGasSummit.com/

Social Media:
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LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.info/3QMRZ2c

Media files
African Peace Magazine
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Robust Creative Solutions: Transforming Ordinary Moments into Extraordinary Memories

Location: MyPR

Gauteng, South Africa – November 20, 2023 – Robust Creative Solutions, the premier media partner for memorable moments and captivating visuals, is proud to announce their exceptional video and photography services tailored to event companies, real estate agents, conferences, and businesses. At Robust Creative Solutions, we understand the significance of capturing the essence of unforgettable …

Read moreRobust Creative Solutions: Transforming Ordinary Moments into Extraordinary Memories

Zikalala to host Property Sector Conference

Location: News

Zikalala to host Property Sector Conference

Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) Minister, Sihle Zikalala, is expected to address property sector participants in a conference to be held in Cape Town, Western Cape.

The Property Sector Conference will be held on Thursday.

As part of the Minister’s strategic engagement, he will start by visiting some of the hijacked buildings in Cape Town before outlining various strategies currently being developed by the DPWI to optimise the utilisation of state-owned buildings, curb illegal occupation and hijacking of buildings, improving energy efficiency and the discontinuing of total reliance on private leases. 

Zikalala will also articulate the department’s plans regarding the ballooning government lease portfolio and how to further maximise revenue generation for the department.

Some of the key focus areas the Minister will address include the transformation of the property sector, ensuring that DPWI’s partnership with the private sector in delivering quality accommodation, is within budget and at a reasonable time.

The conference is aimed at engaging stakeholders on various challenges facing the department on delivering on its legislative mandate to be the real estate agent of South Africa and, therefore, address property industry players on the key role they ought to play in collaboration with the department. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Mon, 11/20/2023 - 15:23

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Read moreZikalala to host Property Sector Conference

This recent ‘black’ prepaid water meter keypad is a game-changer

Location: MyPR

Are you tired of constantly worrying about monitoring your water usage and dealing with unexpected high bills? Straton Pre-paid have the perfect solution for you – our innovative Pre-Paid Water Meter Keypad with Replaceable Batteries! Here’s why this new ‘black’ prepaid water meter keypad is a game-changer: Easy and Convenient Usage: Our keypad allows you …

Read moreThis recent ‘black’ prepaid water meter keypad is a game-changer

Cabinet approves Just Energy Transition Implementation Location

Location: News

Cabinet approves Just Energy Transition Implementation Plan

Cabinet has approved the Just Energy Transition Implementation Plan (JET IP), which will guide South Africa’s transition to a low carbon economy through the scaling up of renewable energy sources.  

The JET IP sets out a number of interventions South Africa needs and investments required for the country to transition to a low carbon and climate resilient economy in line with the National Determined Contributions presented to the United Nations. 

Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Monday Cabinet is of the view that the JET IP demonstrates South Africa’s commitment to a just transition in line with the country’s energy needs. 

She said the JET IP will be driven by a combination of reforms in the energy sector, including the Mpumalanga Just Transition, new energy vehicles and green hydrogen, among others.

“The plan further responds to South Africa’s commitments under the Paris Agreement and United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change as well as NDP [National Development Plan] commitments.

“The Jet IP will enable South Africa to gradually meet its carbon emissions reduction commitments while at same time, it will ensure inclusive economic growth, energy security and employment,” Ntshavheni said during a post-Cabinet media briefing. 

Criminal Assets Recovery Account

Cabinet has also approved the use of monies in the Criminal Asset Recovery Account to fight against illegal mining and other crimes. 

Ntshavheni said R2 172 359 is allocated to fight illicit mining which continues to be a threat to the South African economy.  

“The money is allocated to the SAPS [South African Police Service], SANDF [South African National Defence Force], Department of Home Affairs and Border Management Agency. The SAPS will use the funding to buy vehicles, helicopters, nyalas and will deploy more than 4000 officers for 18 months,” Ntshavheni explained.

Illegal mining and other organised crimes cost South Africa billions of rands each year and it affects the country’s position as an investment destination, the Minister said.

National Petroleum Company Bill

Cabinet has also approved the publication of the South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC) Bill for public comment. 

The Bill gives effect to the Cabinet decision to merge PetroSA, South African Gas Development Company (iGas) and the Strategic Fuel Fund.

Ntshavheni noted that the Bill makes provisions for the establishment of a state-owned company that will ensure South Africa participates meaningfully in oil and gas development. 

“It will also guarantee the country’s security of energy supply to support economic development and growth. The SANPC will oversee strategic planning, coordination and governance of the country’s petroleum resources and this will contribute to development and job creation,” the Minister explained.

Draft National Public Transport Subsidy Policy 

Cabinet also approved the Gazetting of the draft National Public Transport Subsidy Policy for public comment. 

The policy proposes that South Africa’s public transport funding should move from subsidising a particular mode of transport to a user-subsidy model.

“Government recognises that the transport sector is at the heart of the country’s development with most households completely reliant on public transport for mobility.”

African Peer Review Mechanism celebrations  

Meanwhile, Cabinet has considered and supported the request for South Africa to host the 20th anniversary celebrations of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APMR) from 23 to 30 November 2023. 

The Minister said South Africa supports the APRM mission to promote the African Union’s shared values of democratic governance and inclusive development on the continent. 

The 20th anniversary celebrations will include the participation of current and former Heads of State and government, and the African Union Commission. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

GabiK
Mon, 11/20/2023 - 13:50

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Co-Living Or Sharing Digs?

Location: MyPR

As a young professional, isn’t it time you bought a property or a share in one? You can! Paul Stevens, CEO of Just Property, has some advice for young, aspiring property moguls. In South Africa, with its combination of economic challenges, urban hubs, and a young, dynamic population, sharing accommodation when you’ve got your foot …

Read moreCo-Living Or Sharing Digs?

Solidarity, tolerance and dialogue needed on Middle Eastern conflict

Location: News

Solidarity, tolerance and dialogue needed on Middle Eastern conflict

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for solidarity, tolerance and dialogue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict currently raging on in the Middle East.

Some 1 200 people in Israel and a further 11 000 in Gaza have been killed since the beginning of the conflict on October 7.

In his weekly newsletter to the nation, President Ramaphosa acknowledged that the conflict has elicited “strong emotions” from those in support of both sides but cautioned that this must not be allowed to divide South Africans.

“As the bombardment of Gaza continues, there have been pro-Palestinian demonstrations around the world, as well as those expressing solidarity with Israel. There have been a number of such events in our own country, convened by civil society organisations, political parties and religious groupings.

“For some, the murder of Israelis and the abduction of hostages on 7 October has further hardened sentiment that Israel has the right to use whatever means at its disposal to defend itself. At the same time, there are others who view the collective punishment of the people of Gaza by the Israeli government as a war crime.

“The conflict between Israel and Palestine has long been a polarising conflict that has deepened divisions in societies and communities way beyond the Middle East. Yet no matter how strong our views on this matter, we must guard against this conflict turning us against each other as South Africans,” he said.

The President called on South Africans, who choose to demonstrate on the conflict, to defer from confrontations with those who oppose their views and commended those who “participated in orderly and peaceful demonstrations in several parts of our country”.

“Our Constitution protects everyone’s right to freedom of opinion and expression, to freedom of association and to demonstrate. It also requires that all demonstrations must be peaceful and that freedom of expression does not extend to the advocacy of hatred based on race, ethnicity, gender or religion that constitutes incitement to cause harm.

“There is no place in South Africa for violence or threats of violence against those who hold contrary views. Nor is there any place for any form of prejudice, racism or chauvinism. As emotive as the Israel-Palestine issue may be for many of our citizens, particularly given our own history of discrimination and oppression, we must not let it deepen divisions between us,” President Ramaphosa said.

Rejecting anti-Semitism

President Ramaphosa firmly denied any accusations that the South African government is brewing anti-Semitic rhetoric in the country. 

“Successive democratic administrations have upheld the constitutional rights of all individuals and groups in this country. We have enforced these rights through our courts, including the Equality Court, and through institutions like the South African Human Rights Commission, the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities, and others.

“It was disappointing therefore to read an article in a leading Israeli newspaper by a representative of a local Jewish organisation suggesting that our government is ‘encouraging pogroms’ against the South African Jewish community. This has never happened in the history of democratic South Africa, nor will it ever be allowed to happen,” he said.

The President emphasised that government’s position on the freedom of the Palestinian people does not translate into anti-Semitism.

“As a government and as a people, we stand firm in our call for justice for the oppressed Palestinian people, for their rights and aspirations to be fulfilled, for the immediate cessation of hostilities, and for there to be accountability for the deplorable killings of civilians in this recent conflict. We maintain that peace will not be possible until Palestinians are free.

“Yet, support for the Palestinian struggle cannot be equated with anti-Semitism. There is no place in our society for anti-Semitism, just as there is no place in our country for prejudice directed against any individual or community on the basis of race, religion, belief, political view or sexual orientation,” he said.

President Ramaphosa insisted that South Africa’s democracy, differing and divergent views are “respected and protected” by the law and citizens’ right to “advocate and demonstrate peacefully, be they pro-Israel or pro-Palestinian, will continue to be upheld.

“As a people with our own painful history of discrimination, racism and prejudice, let us remember our personal duty to be tolerant and respectful of others.

“Let us promote dialogue and meaningful engagement so that, as South Africans, we may work together to support the realisation of just, peaceful and secure future for the people of both Palestine and Israel.

“Above all, let our painful history be a reminder of the heavy cost of a divided nation that has turned against itself. When it comes to freedom, equality and justice, we must be at one,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 11/20/2023 - 10:38

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Read moreSolidarity, tolerance and dialogue needed on Middle Eastern conflict

Enhancing innovation and investments for a resilient and competitive agro-industrial sector and agrifood systems transformation in Southern Africa

Location: News

FAO Regional Office for Africa
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The 17th Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) meeting of the FAO Subregional Office for Southern Africa officially opened today in Johannesburg, South Africa. The MDT meeting is an annual event, which provides a platform for different FAO units and Member States, Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and development partners to jointly review achievements and challenges, while designing innovative approaches for sustainable agrifood systems transformation.

The five-day MDT meeting is held under the theme “Enhancing innovation and investments for a resilient and competitive agro-industrial sector and agrifood systems transformation in Southern Africa.”

The MDT meeting is attended by high-level officials including Winston Makabanyane, Head of Africa Desk, Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development in South Africa; Domingos Hove, Director, Food Agriculture and Natural Resource in the SADC Secretariat; Permanent Secretaries of the SADC Member States, Regional Economic Communities; Abebe Haile-Grabriel, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Africa; development partners, FAO Representatives and senior technical experts from Headquarters and across Southern Africa.

“For the next five days, the subregion and country offices will share the successes, milestones and challenges in programme implementation, as well as outline how we envisage to respond by enhancing innovation and investments for a resilient and competitive agro-industrial sector and agrifood system transformation in Southern Africa,” said Patrice Talla, FAO Subregional Coordinator for Southern Africa in his welcome remarks during the official opening ceremony of the MDT meeting. 

The 17th MDT meeting is taking place at the start of the renewed mandate of the FAO Director-General, Dr Qu Dongyu, which focuses on the emergence of a new vision of agriculture that will work towards the Four Betters: Better Production, Better Nutrition, a Better Environment and a Better Life – leaving no one behind.

“I would like to assure you that the regional office eagerly looks forward to the outcomes of this year's MDT meeting and will be there to provide guidance and support for implementation of the agreed programme priorities. I encourage you to utilize the next five days to engage in fruitful discussions and interactions to fully meet the expectations of this meeting,” said Abebe Haile-Grabriel affirming FAO Regional Office's support to the subregion.

Defining and aligning priorities to the FAO 33rd Africa Regional Conference (ARC33) and the new biennium

Taking place at a time when FAO will be holding its 33rd Africa Regional Conference (ARC33) in April 2024 in Morocco, the discourse of the MDT meeting will give participants the opportunity for the subregion and its Member States to prepare for the Conference to present subregional priorities and technical assistance expectations of Member States and RECs for deliberations at the Conference. In addition, the MDT deliberations will be conducted with a view to informing priorities for the new Biennium (2024 – 2025).

“SADC has a mandate and obligation to support member states as they strive to achieve agrifood systems transformation. In particular, FANR's mandate has a major focus on a resilient and competitive agro-industrial sector in line with the theme of this year's MDT meeting and as outlined in SADC's Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan 2020-2030,” said, Domingos Hove underlining the critical importance of co-development, co-ownership and implementation of country and regional programme priorities.

The meeting is structured in a strategic format that will enable the subregion (FAO, Members States and development partners) to take stock of progress to learn and adopt progressive innovations and investments for sustainable agrifood systems transformation. Member States will also have the opportunity present best practices for regional cross-learning and experience sharing. The meeting will delve into the “forecasting” the future of food and agriculture through adopting measurable recommendations for enhancing innovation and investments for a resilient and competitive agro-industrial sector and agrifood systems transformation in Southern Africa.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of FAO Regional Office for Africa.

Read moreEnhancing innovation and investments for a resilient and competitive agro-industrial sector and agrifood systems transformation in Southern Africa

President congratulates Auditor-General on UNESCO appointment

Location: News

The Presidency: Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa commends Auditor-General of South Africa, Ms Tsakani Maluleke, on her appointment as External Auditor of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) for a period of six years, from 2024 to 2029. 

President Ramaphosa appointed Ms Maluleke, on recommendation of the National Assembly, as Auditor-General with effect from 1 December 2020. She had previously been Deputy Auditor-General and the first woman to hold this office. 

Ms Maluleke is a Chartered Accountant and registered auditor who holds a B Comm (Accounting) and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Accountancy from the University of Cape Town. 

She also obtained a Post-graduate Diploma in Development and Public Management from the University of the Witwatersrand in 2016. 

Ms Maluleke was elected to her UNESCO role on 16 November 2023 by members of various committees and subsidiary organs of this United Nations agency. 

UNESCO contributes to peace and security by promoting international cooperation in education, sciences, culture, communication and information. 

President Ramaphosa said: “On behalf of government and the nation, I congratulate our Auditor-General on her election to a global role which as an acknowledgment of her personal capabilities and the leadership capacity and integrity that resides in South Africa's governance institutions”. 

The President wishes Ms Maluleke well as she embarks on her new oversight position.

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

Read morePresident congratulates Auditor-General on UNESCO appointment

FIFA Secretary General receives Choiseul Grand Prix award in Casablanca

Location: Sport
FIFA

Fatma Samoura honoured in recognition of her achievements as Secretary General; Progress in women's football and development schemes central themes of speech; Vows to continue work against discrimination after stepping down at the end of the year.

Fatma Samoura has received the Choiseul Grand Prix award at a ceremony in Casablanca, Morocco, in recognition of her achievements during more than seven years as FIFA Secretary General.

Appointed in 2016 and the first female, African and Muslim Secretary General in over a century of FIFA history, Ms Samoura has since worked tirelessly alongside President Gianni Infantino to rehabilitate FIFA's image and increase transparency.

She has also been a staunch advocate for women's football, and her tenure has seen a major increase in the number of girls and women playing the game as FIFA work towards the goal of 60 million female players in organised football by 2026.

In her acceptance speech, Ms Samoura highlighted the success of the expanded FIFA Women's World Cup 2023, which saw nearly two million fans attend matches in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand, and noted the significant impact the tournament would have not only on the women's game, but also society.

“As my journey with FIFA draws to a close, I have had some time to look back on the last seven-and-a-half years and see just how far we have come. FIFA itself has changed significantly. When I stepped into the role in June 2016, it was basically a toxic brand due to all the corruption scandals. So along with President Infantino, I had to take a leading role in cleaning up the organisation, inside and out. Today FIFA is a more accountable, better governed and more transparent organisation that puts football in the center of its activities, and I am hugely proud to have contributed in some small way to creating that.” said Ms Samoura at the event organised by Institut Choiseul, an independent, non-partisan and non-profit thinktank focused on finding solutions to economic challenges in Africa.

Ms Samoura has also contributed to changing the face of FIFA. Since the founding of the Women's Football (https://apo-opa.co/3G7NOrE) Division in 2016, the FIFA Council (https://apo-opa.co/46kZotR) now features seven female members, including one FIFA Vice-President, while over 40 percent of FIFA employees are female.

But she has also been a driving force behind development schemes such as the FIFA Football for Schools programme (www.FootballForSchools.FIFA.com), this week attending the launch in Ethiopia (https://apo-opa.co/46qshVE) as the East African nation became the 102nd of FIFA's 211 Member Associations (MAs) to join the initiative, which aims to give children around the world skills for life as well as football.

She also highlighted the benefits of the Talent Development Scheme (https://apo-opa.co/46j6ZsT), which provides the most promising young players a pathway to fully exploit their potential, and the FIFA Forward programme (https://apo-opa.co/49VJNUX), which funds MAs' football-related development projects and has seen a seven-fold increase in support since 2016.

The FIFA Talent Development Scheme (https://apo-opa.co/47DbFuR) helps raise the standards of national-team football around the world for both men and women. The scheme supports MAs in making the most of the talent available to them with FIFA approved a funding allocation of USD 200 million. FIFA's ambition is that by 2026, all MAs will have at least one high-performance centre of excellence for players between the ages of 12 and 16.

Ms Samoura was also a driving force behind FIFA's partnership with Agence Française de Développement (AFD) (https://apo-opa.co/3MRbDaG). The partnership has seen projects to mitigate Covid 19 effects, projects on mental health co-financed with the GIZ (the German Development Cooperation) (https://apo-opa.co/3sEkaXQ), and the Championnes programme. The Championnes programme is an important project that promotes leadership among girls and promotes gender equality in Africa through football.

The most recent co-financed FIFA/AFD initiative (https://apo-opa.co/3sEinC4) – with Play International and Diambars as implementation agencies – is an inclusive football academy programme launched in Djibouti, Malawi and Mauritania.

The benefits of these programmes in Africa can already been seen in recent FIFA tournaments including the FIFA Women's World Cup™️ which saw an increase to four African teams qualify for the finals, with a record three of them – Morocco, Nigeria and South Africa – reaching the knockout rounds. African nations have also impressed in the FIFA U-17 World Cup™️, currently being held in Indonesia. Three out of the four CAF nations – Morocco, Mali and Senegal – have qualified for the knockout rounds with Morrocco finishing top of their group.

The Football Unites the World campaign, and the wide range of social issues given greater visibility at the FIFA World Cup last year in Qatar and this year's FIFA Women's World Cup, such as gender equality and education for all, have all been causes close to Ms Samoura's heart during her time in office. She said she intends to keep promoting those issues when she steps down as FIFA Secretary General at the end of the year.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of FIFA.

Download more images: https://apo-opa.co/3SMBEvO

Contact for African media: 
AfricanMedia@fifa.org

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S&P keeps SA credit ratings unchanged

Location: News

S&P keeps SA credit ratings unchanged

Government says it has noted Standard and Poor (S&P) Global Ratings’ decision to affirm South Africa’s long-term foreign and local currency debt ratings at ‘BB-’ and ‘BB’, respectively, and maintain the stable outlook.

According to S&P, the stable outlook balances South Africa's credit strengths - particularly a credible central bank, a flexible exchange rate, an actively traded currency, and deep capital markets - against infrastructure-related pressures on growth and downside risks to the fiscal and debt position.

“The agency also acknowledges that private-sector investment in power generation and renewables is picking up and will support the strengthening of real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth over the medium term.

“Over the next three years, government will focus on raising GDP growth by improving the provision of electricity and logistics, enhancing the delivery of infrastructure and restructuring the state to be efficient and fit-for-purpose,” said National Treasury in a statement.

The department said fiscal policy continues to support this approach by stabilising debt and debt-service costs.

Additionally, fiscal consolidation will be implemented through spending reductions, efficiency measures across government and moderate tax revenue measures. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Sun, 11/19/2023 - 11:08

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AG appointed UNESCO External Auditor

Location: News

AG appointed UNESCO External Auditor

Auditor-General of South Africa Tsakani Maluleke has been commended on her appointment as External Auditor of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) for a period of six years, from 2024 to 2029.

In a statement, President Cyril Ramaphosa said: “On behalf of government and the nation, I congratulate our Auditor-General on her election to a global role which as an acknowledgment of her personal capabilities and the leadership capacity and integrity that resides in South Africa’s governance institutions.”

The President appointed Maluleke, on recommendation of the National Assembly, as Auditor-General with effect from 1 December 2020. She had previously been Deputy Auditor-General and the first woman to hold this office.

Maluleke is a Chartered Accountant and registered auditor who holds a B Comm (Accounting) and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Accountancy from the University of Cape Town.

She also obtained a Post-graduate Diploma in Development and Public Management from the University of the Witwatersrand in 2016.

Maluleke was elected to her UNESCO role on 16 November 2023 by members of various committees and subsidiary organs of this United Nations agency. UNESCO contributes to peace and security by promoting international cooperation in education, sciences, culture, communication and information.

The President wished Maluleke well as she embarks on her new oversight position. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Janine
Sun, 11/19/2023 - 11:24

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Eskom ramping up load shedding to replenish emergency reserves

Location: News

Eskom ramping up load shedding to replenish emergency reserves

Electricity Minister, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, said on Sunday that Eskom was ramping up power cuts to replenish emergency reserves. 

This comes as the state-owned power entity announced it was implementing Stage 3 load shedding from 9:00 this morning until 5:00 on Monday to replenish emergency reserves in preparation for the week ahead. 

This is because Eskom lost a “cluster” of units from different power stations across the country, amounting to over 2 700 megawatts (MW), shy of three stages of load shedding. 

“And if we had not experienced that, of course, you would not be seeing the kind of intensity of load shedding that we are experiencing,” the Minister explained. 

Meanwhile, he said that the return of Units 1 and 3 in Kusile Power Station has been significant. 

“As big units return, when you see the kind of cluster of failures that we’ve seen, the intensity of load shedding is not as acute. Of course, we’re on Stage 3 [load shedding] and that’s the highest that we have experienced. But what Unit 1 and 3 have done is to create an additional buffer and why it’s important that Unit 2 and 5 also return.” 

On the other hand, he said this kind of failure of generating units has resulted in the continued burning of diesel and open-cycle gas turbines (OGGT) running on stream.

“That’s something that we haven’t done and avoided over the past four or five weeks before the last two weeks. We’ve been burning very little diesel and preserved that and ensured that we rely on the ability of the units on their own to give us the megawatts that are required. 

“That’s why the media statement that went out by Eskom today is to say to say we want to build that emergency reserve because we have depleted them.” 

Eskom, according to Ramokgopa, did not anticipate the extent of the current breakdown.  

“Failure will be given in any engineering component. But I think what has been the major issue here is the clustering of this failure.” 

However, he was optimistic that the five units would return by tonight. This includes units from Duvha, Majuba and Lethabo power stations. 

“This messaging is a function of our ability to keep to these timelines. And of course, you can see that some of them were already delayed but we are confident about their ability to bring these units back on stream to ensure that we’re able to address this situation.”

Unit 1 at Koeberg Power Station was successfully synchronised to the grid on Saturday, after almost a year. 

Eskom said this was the longest outage in the history of the power station during which the original three steam generators were successfully replaced by three new steam generators.

Once Unit 1 is considered stable, Unit 2 will be taken offline to have its steam generators replaced.

“The expectation is that it must return back to service on time. But if you had to draw from the experiences of Unit 1, it doesn't give us that degree of confidence and that's why there's that discussion that we have with the management. 

“We expect the second synchronisation to happen on the 2nd and 3rd of December. And then that's when I'm sure that we will be able to take out Unit 2 for the kind of attention that is required so that we're able to meet the licensing requirements.”

Meanwhile, he told the media that government was moving with speed in policy issues and giving certainty to what will constitute South Africa’s energy mix, transmission intervention and additional generation capacity expected end of December this year. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Sun, 11/19/2023 - 11:58

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Global teacher and education workers labour federation meets in Joburg

Location: News

Global teacher and education workers labour federation meets in Joburg

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday address the opening of the Education International 10th Africa Regional (EIRAF) Conference in Sandton, Johannesburg.

Education International is a global teacher and education workers labour federation with more than 32 million members.

Education International affiliates in South Africa are the South African Democratic Teachers’ Union, the National Professional Teachers’ Organisation of South Africa, the National Teachers’ Union, the Professional Educators Union and the Suid-Afrikaanse Onderwysersunie.

Hosted by South African Education International member organisations, the conference is themed "Standing Together for Resilient Education Systems in Times of Crisis”.

The Presidency said the conference takes place between Sunday, 19 November 2023, and Thursday, 23 November 2023.

In line with the principle of rotation, the regional conference is being held in Southern Africa with sub-themes: “Guaranteeing Quality Public Education for All During and Beyond Crises” as well as “Rebuilding our Profession and our Education Systems”.

The conference seeks to formulate strategies for equitable, inclusive, and high-quality public education; addressing challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Ebola, HIV/AIDS, conflict, and climate change.

“Taking place every four years, EIRAF serves as a platform for reports, policy adoption, and future program approval in accordance with its Constitution. It offers member organisations a vital opportunity for substantive discussions on trade unions, education, the future of education, and other critical regional issues,” said the Presidency.

Conference delegates include representatives from global unions and partner organisations.

Discussions during the conference will focus on crucial topics such as making Early Childhood Education for All a reality in Africa, creating safe and healthy schools and education institutions, evidence-based social and policy dialogue, and defending and promoting academic freedom and professional autonomy in Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Sun, 11/19/2023 - 11:42

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Further measures regarding the Parliament fire incident and alleged administrative irregularities

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Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The external investigation commissioned by Parliament into the causes associated with the 2022 security breach and fire incident as well as separate alleged administrative irregularities have pointed to systems and conduct of specific Parliament employees that raised cause for concern. In light of these findings, Parliament has engaged in further processes to address some of the concerns and to implement remedial actions. These further assessments identified conduct of several employees that required redress. It was compelled to implement a series of rigorous actions against those implicated, reinforcing the institution's commitment to integrity and enforcing personal accountability among its staff.

Upon reviewing the consequent allegations of misconduct among these staff members, Parliament has engaged external legal counsel for guidance on appropriate actions to take against those implicated.

The legal team pinpointed 28 individuals facing significant allegations that required their response.

As of October 20th, these employees received notice of the charges under consideration and were given a chance to reply or comment on the claims. Out of these, 26 employees have responded. One did not, while another was hospitalized at the time but has since indicated a willingness to address the allegations.

Some employees offered satisfactory justifications for their actions, which Parliament has acknowledged, absolving them from the charges. For these individuals, Parliament is contemplating alternative measures such as professional development or additional training to address any identified skill gaps.

Others failed to provide adequate explanations. Consequently, Parliament is arranging disciplinary hearings for these staff members, who will soon receive notice of the specific charges they face.

The preparations for these hearings are particularly delicate. In organizing the disciplinary proceedings, Parliament must balance protecting its interests with the rights of the employees concerned.

Due to the serious nature of the allegations, 9 out of the 13 staff members facing disciplinary action have been placed on precautionary suspension with full pay and benefits. This decision takes into account their senior positions and the possible influence they could have on their colleagues within the organization.

This suspension, Parliament believes, is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the institution and ensuring an impartial process. The decision was taken to safeguard all parties involved and is applicable only in situations where the continued presence of these individuals could hinder the disciplinary preparation or possibly sway witnesses.

For the upcoming hearings, external legal experts and chairpersons will be appointed to guarantee impartiality and eliminate any suspicion of bias.

Parliament underscores the difficulty of this decision, assuring that it has followed the counsel of labour law specialists. This process should not be construed as an implication of guilt upon any of the employees. Parliament is committed to upholding the rights of all involved.

Parliament is committed to ensuring a fair and just process for every employee involved and, therefore, will not make further public comments on this matter unless deemed necessary.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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Small business can stimulate economic growth, job creation

Location: News

Small business can stimulate economic growth, job creation

Focusing on Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) and cooperatives can trigger growth, create jobs and build a more inclusive economy, says President Cyril Ramaphosa. 

“As a country, we need to get behind our entrepreneurs and SMMEs and strengthen the eco-system that supports them,” the President said. 

The country’s first citizen was speaking on Friday night at the 2nd National Presidential SMME and Cooperatives Awards in Johannesburg.

The President told delegates the ceremony was pressing given the current volatile global times. 

“Our prospects for a faster and more sustained recovery after COVID-19 have been set back amidst continued supply chain disruptions, high inflation and depressed market demand. 

“Governments are under pressure to stimulate the economy and to provide more social relief, but with reduced fiscal resources.” 

This is the reason he is of the view that SMMEs can stimulate growth and job creation. 

He told guests he was encouraged by the work being done by the Department of Small Business Development since the launch of the third iteration of the country’s SMME strategy almost a year ago. 

The National Small Enterprise Development Strategic Framework aims to use resources within the broader eco-system to build practical partnerships that enable entrepreneurship and SMME growth. 

Government is establishing a new one-stop small enterprise agency that will bring together the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) and the Co-operatives Banks Development Agency (CBDA). 

The strategic framework calls for concrete partnerships and actions in four areas. These include tackling the red tape and regulatory burdens that frustrate SMMEs. 

“The Department of Small Business Development is also streamlining business licensing processes, with the Businesses Licensing Amendment Bill soon to be gazetted.

“But there is much more to be done. We know some of the frustrations which tech start-ups in particular have with foreign exchange controls that impede inward flows of venture capital, and affect the local registration of intellectual property.”

The other areas of focus entail addressing market concentration and enabling market access, especially for SMMEs owned by women, youth and other underserved communities; access to finance and entrepreneurship support. 

“If we get this right, we can change the country’s fortunes.”

The current administration, he said, has set a target of establishing new 100 small enterprise incubators. To date, the state has established 110 with another 11 under development. 

“It is encouraging that the number of people engaged in entrepreneurial activity has significantly increased.”

Citing the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, he said the working-age population involved in business start-ups in South Africa increased from 6.5% in 2001 to 17.5% in 2021. 

“This clearly reaffirms what our National Development Plan envisioned, the creation of 11 million jobs by 2030 with nine million of these coming from small enterprises. 

“We just need to scale up our interventions to create a conducive environment for SMMEs, and onboard other eco-system partners, especially the private sector, to play their part.” 

He told the entrepreneurs in the room that citizens depended on their innovation and entrepreneurship to create the opportunities that would enable them to get the much-needed jobs. 

“Congratulations to the winners and the runners-up. You have gone through a rigorous selection process and thoroughly deserve to be here. It is your dynamism and drive that will revitalise our economy and improve our global competitiveness.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Sun, 11/19/2023 - 10:25

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International Relations Committee Chairperson holds successful bilateral with Swedish ambassador

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Supra Mahumapelo, has held a successful engagement with the Swedish Ambassador, Mr Håkan Juholt, as part of strengthening relations between South Africa and Sweden.

The meeting was held at the behest of the Swedish Ambassador, who was accompanied by other Swedish ambassadors responsible for Angola (HE Ambassador Lennart Killander Larsson), the Democratic Republic of Congo (HE Ambassador Henric Råsbrandt), Mozambique (HE Ambassador Mette Sunnergren), Zambia (HE Ambassador Johan Hallenborg) and Zimbabwe (HE Ambassador Per Lindgärde).

During the engagement, Mr Mahumapelo welcomed the ambassadors and praised Sweden for supporting the struggle for democracy in South Africa during the Apartheid period. He also noted the various ways in which Sweden continues to work with South Africa. In addition, he described the role South Africa plays in the Southern African Development Community region and the importance South Africa places on regional cooperation on the African continent.

Ambassador Juholt highlighted the importance of strengthening ties between South Africa and Sweden and emphasised the extent to which the bilateral relationship between the two countries has grown since South Africa attained democracy in 1994. The ambassador also noted that South Africa and Sweden enjoy a bi-national commission in addition to various bilateral agreements, which he hopes will expand in the future.

In his concluding remarks, Mr Mahumapelo noted that as part of its oversight, the portfolio committee scrutinises the activities of the African Renaissance Fund (ARF), an entity that falls under the Department of International Relations and Cooperation. He then described the work of the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) and noted that the portfolio committee needs to look more closely at SIDA, given that the ARF will eventually be transformed into the South African Development Partnership Agency (SADPA).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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