MyZA

News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff

You are here: Home / Archives for South Africa

South Africa

Stronger, together! Cabinet praises Boks victory

Location: News

Stronger, together! Cabinet praises Boks victory

Cabinet has sent its congratulations to the record breaking Springboks team on their victory at the Rugby World Cup in Paris.

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni congratulated the Boks on their second back-to-back World Cup win during a post Cabinet media briefing on Monday. 

The team clinched the Webb Ellis Cup following a tough encounter against New Zealand. The Boks are the only national team who have won the Rugby World Cup four times. 

Ntshavheni paid special homage to the diverse make-up of the Springboks team that took on and conquered the world.

“In the history of rugby in South Africa, this Springboks team is the most diverse in terms of the demographic representation of South Africa. The composition of such a diverse team was not an act of coincidence, but a deliberate effort by the management and coaching staff of the Springboks to select an inclusive team.

“That bold decision by then coach Rassie Erasmus and his team continues to demonstrate to South Africans and the rest of the world, that everyone with skill, if given a chance and support, can become great – an affirmation that we are Stronger Together,” she said.

Ntshavheni said the “resilience and determination” of the Springboks throughout a challenging World Cup – in which they had to face some of the top 5 ranked teams in the world – “is an embodiment of the true essence of being a South African”.

“[It is] that which makes this great nation rise against all odds and adversities to emerge victorious. Some of the best players of this Springboks team have had to overcome personal adversities on their path to greatness.

“Cabinet expressed its congratulations to Siyamthanda “Siya” Kolisi, the Springboks double World Cup-winning captain, for leading the team to the 'Greatest of All Time (GOAT)' status and the celebrations must go on,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 11/06/2023 - 14:21

1 view
Read moreStronger, together! Cabinet praises Boks victory

Introducing Track-It-All: Revolutionizing Task and Inventory Management for Businesses

Location: MyPR

Gauteng, South Africa – November 5, 2023 – Track-It-All, a leading company specializing in developing tailored system software, is proud to announce the launch of its innovative task and inventory management solution. With a focus on customization and efficiency, Track-It-All aims to streamline operations, optimize resource allocation, and enhance productivity for businesses of all sizes. …

Read moreIntroducing Track-It-All: Revolutionizing Task and Inventory Management for Businesses

SA remains concerned about ongoing Russia-Ukraine, Israel-Palestine wars – Pandor

Location: News

SA remains concerned about ongoing Russia-Ukraine, Israel-Palestine wars - Pandor

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, has told her Ukrainian counterpart, Minister Dmytro Kubela, that South Africa remains deeply concerned about the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the continuing loss of lives and the very worrying humanitarian situation.

"We are in discussion with our own leader, President Cyril Ramaphosa, to look at how we can have a greater impetus to the Africa Peace Initiative to address our concerns with respect to this war,” she said on Monday. 

Pandor was hosting Kubela in Pretoria for political consultations, where the two leaders also briefed media.

Africa, Pandor said, has been witness to numerous conflicts and overcame difficult wars over the years. 

“All conflict has devastating effects on the countries involved. The effects are felt both politically, as well as economically and in terms of the development opportunities for often innocent citizens.

“As a continent, we continue to strive to build peace; strive to work toward developing a culture of peaceful resolution of conflict, and the promotion of the importance of diplomacy and peace as the route to resolving any dispute.” 

This is the reason the Minister said South Africa always encourages a process of peaceful resolution of conflicts in Africa and globally. 

“We believe the only path to peace is through diplomacy, dialogue and commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter, including the principle that all Member States shall settle their disputes by peaceful means, and many people forget this particular provision of the UN Charter.”

Regarding the unfolding tragedy in the Middle East, Pandor urged the international community to be louder in voicing a call for the immediate cessation of hostilities. 

During his address to the General Assembly in September this year, President Ramaphosa insisted that the UN Charter principle of respect for the territorial integrity of every country be upheld. He told Member States that South Africa values the importance of engaging all partners in conflict to achieve peaceful, just and enduring resolutions. 

“Minister, we’re meeting at a time when the world is experiencing a grave escalation of the conflict between Israel and Palestine. The carnage and senseless destruction of property, as well as the untold pain and suffering on all sides, should be condemned unreservedly,”  Pandor said on Monday.

The unfolding events, she said, reminded South Africa of its own suffering at the hands of the apartheid machinery. 

“Therefore, we call for an immediate end of hostilities, unconditional provision of medical supplies and humanitarian aid. It has thus become more urgent that the relevant UN resolutions and decisions are fully executed to ensure peaceful co-existence between Israel and Palestine for sustained peace. [It] is our belief, as President Mandela, said that the struggle of South Africa is not complete if the people of Palestine are not free.” 

Kubela said he was happy that he is the first Ukrainian Foreign Minister to visit South Africa since 1998. 

“On the other hand, I am unhappy that the pause in high-level bilateral contacts between foreign ministers has taken so long. We should commit today never to allow this to happen again, and to have regular political dialogue between our countries.” 

Kubela said the leaders will not only discuss bilateral relations between Ukraine and South Africa but also the larger regional perspective of African politics and development. 

“No one in today's world exists in isolation. Neither peace nor war exists in isolation in today's world. 

“So while Ukraine has been suffering from the large-scale invasion by Russia since February 2022, we do observe and follow with utmost concern the crisis in the Middle East, and we wish for just and lasting peace to be restored in the Middle East based on the principle of a two-State solution.”

Kubela said he believes that the deeper the contact between the countries, the higher the level of trust between both nations. 

“There are good reasons for that to happen, which will allow us to address the most sensitive issues in the bilateral and Global Agenda successfully and together.” 

These issues, according to Kubela, include the implementation of Ukraine's peace formula to end the war, international organisations, the development of trade and the involvement of Ukrainian expertise in the digitalisation of government services, and the production of agricultural food products across Africa. 

“All of this is on the table and I'm looking forward to a fruitful discussion, and as we diplomats like to say, 'result-oriented discussion',” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Mon, 11/06/2023 - 12:52

79 views
Read moreSA remains concerned about ongoing Russia-Ukraine, Israel-Palestine wars – Pandor

Government activities for the week, 6 November – 10 November 2023

Location: News

Government activities for the week, 6 November - 10 November 2023

On Monday, 6 November, the Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, briefs media in Pretoria on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday, 1 November.

From Monday, 6 November, the Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, is expected to embark on a series of follow-up visits to Eskom power stations. The follow-up visits will begin at Arnot and Hendrina power stations in Mpumalanga on Monday, 6 November.  On Wednesday, 8 November, the Minister Ramokgopa will visit Kriel and Matla power stations in Mpumalanga. On Thursday, 9 November, he will visit Camden power station in Mpumalanga.

On Monday, 6 November, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, hosts the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Ukraine, Dmytro Kubela, for political consultations.

On Monday, 6 November, the Deputy Minister of Transport, Lisa Mangcu will lead a clean-up and awareness campaign at the Rand West City Local Municipality in Randfontein.

From Monday, 6 November to Tuesday, 7 November, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) and the Office of the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal embark on a service delivery drive to address psychosocial challenges that women, youth and persons with disabilities are confronted with in Kwa-Nongoma.

On Tuesday, 7 November, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, will host a consultative stakeholder engagement meeting on South Africa’s negotiating position ahead of the third Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC3), which is  scheduled to take place in Nairobi, Kenya from 13 – 19 November 2023.

From Tuesday, 7 November to Thursday, 9 November, the Department of Employment and Labour will host a three-day Occupational Health and Safety Conference in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

On Thursday, 9 November, the Electoral Commission will present the Atlas of Results for National and Provincial Elections to Parliament.

 

 

Matona
Mon, 11/06/2023 - 12:10

59 views
Read moreGovernment activities for the week, 6 November – 10 November 2023

350.org and Local Groups Kick Off Global Month of Action to Call for Shift to Renewable Energy

Location: News
350.org

Starting November 3, 350.org (https://www.350.org) together with grassroots groups and communities across Africa and around the world will participate in over 200 actions in 46 countries that will kick off a global month of action to call for a renewable energy revolution and an equitable shift away from fossil fuels. The actions are part of an initiative by 350.org dubbed “Power Up”, which demands that governments across the globe shift money away from polluting fossil fuels (coal, oil and gas) and channel substantial investments to powering up a safe, just and sustainable future built on people-centered renewable energy.

The actions which will also take place against the background of the announcement of staggering profits by different fossil fuel companies, that blatantly prioritize profit at the expense of people and the planet. As Africa bears the brunt of worsening climate impacts such as flooding, droughts and storms, communities are calling on the governments to hold polluters accountable by making them pay through taxing their earnings and redirecting these finances to fund a renewable energy system rooted in justice.

Glen Tyler-Davies, South Africa team Lead, 350Africa.org said,

"The transition to renewable energy is happening. The biggest risk now is that it is increasingly a disorderly transition - a transition with no clear plan which preserves or worsens inequality in terms of energy access and who holds power over energy generation. This will ruin the chances of creating a more equitable energy system and society. Our leaders need to wake up and understand this. They need to provide and implement a plan for a just transition that provides power, both literal and figurative, to the people. We need to power up a clean, just and renewable energy future."

Rukiya Khamis, Africa Regional Organizer, 350Africa.org said,

"As we experience escalating climate impacts, to which the African continent is the most vulnerable, we are hopeful that a liveable future is possible. Africa has an abundance of renewable energy potential that presents a unique opportunity for the continent to drive the global renewable energy revolution and foster an equitable transition away from fossil fuels. We are calling on governments and financial institutions to power up the continent safely by channeling finances to people-centered renewable energy, committing to phasing out fossil fuels, and for the fossil fuel industry to pay up for its role in the climate crisis."

Zaki Mamdoo, Coordinator, Stop EACOP coalition said,

"These actions unite activists, organizations, and communities worldwide and coincides with the announcement of fossil fuel giants' record profits, earned through the exploitation of our labor and the environment. Join us as we come together through hundreds of actions across the globe to demand an end to the fossil fuel era and a transition to community-owned renewable energy systems rooted in justice"

Christian Hounkannou, Francophone Regional Organiser, 350Africa.org

“The swift warming of our planet is not a result of natural forces; it's a deliberate act, a crime driven by a privileged minority seeking personal gain. For many years, they've obstructed climate measures to safeguard their immense riches. However, they are not beyond accountability. Africa's renewable energy potential surpasses all other continents. Having endured the severe consequences of fossil fuels, it stands as a prime candidate to lead the world towards an alternative, clean energy development trajectory. The moment has come to liberate ourselves from coal, oil, and gas, and hold those who pollute responsible for the essential and immediate changes we require.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of 350.org.

Notes to Editors:
For more information on Power Up and a full list of actions happening across the globe, visit the website https://GlobalPowerUp.org/

Photos and videos will be made available here (https://apo-opa.info/40ujGjA) after the events.

Contact:
Christine Mbithi
christine.mbithi@350.org

Media files
350.org
Download logo
Read more350.org and Local Groups Kick Off Global Month of Action to Call for Shift to Renewable Energy

Africa Investment Forum welcomes Rugby Africa President to discuss the business of sport

Location: News, Sport
Rugby Africa

The newly elected President of Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com), the continental governing body for rugby in Africa, Mr Herbert Mensah, will discuss the business of sport in a one-to-one fireside chat at the 2023 Africa Investment Forum (AIF) (www.AfricaInvestmentForum.com) on Thursday, November 9 in Marrakech, Morocco.  

Championed by the African Development Bank and seven other founding partners (Africa50, Africa Finance Corporation, Afreximbank, Development Bank of Southern Africa, European Investment Bank, Islamic Development Bank and Trade and Development Bank), the Africa Investment Forum is Africa's investment marketplace to accelerate transactions to close Africa's investment gaps.

Founded in 2018, the Africa Investment Forum has mobilized nearly $143 billion in investment interest. The event brings together heads of state, business leaders, decision makers and investors to advance critical investment transactions to closure. Previous attendees include H.E Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda, H.E Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, and H.E Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana. 

The sports industry in Africa is experiencing rapid growth, with the potential to generate jobs, improve public health, foster social inclusion and drive economic growth. According to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), the industry was valued at $7 billion in 2018 with an expected growth of $12 billion in 2027. Despite the potential, investment across Africa remains limited, with only 1% of startup financing directed towards the sport sector. 

Rugby Africa President, Herbert Mensah, continues to emphasize the business potential of rugby across Africa. Since his election, President Mensah has called for a change of mindset from African governments and international organizations to increase investment in rugby across Africa. In June, President Mensah delivered a keynote speech on treating rugby as a lucrative business venture at the Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa 2023 event in Marrakech, Morocco.

Watch the video on the Bloomberg Website: https://apo-opa.info/466rOcr  

The annual three-day Africa Investment Forum Market Days event will commence on Wednesday November 8 to Friday November 10 under the theme “Unlocking Africa's Value Chain” in Marrakech, Morocco.

Read more information about the Africa Investment Forum: https://www.AfricaInvestmentForum.com/en

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.

Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com

About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women's rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 39 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.

Media files
Rugby Africa
Download logo
Read moreAfrica Investment Forum welcomes Rugby Africa President to discuss the business of sport

SA calls on Israel to protect civilians and fast-track repatriation as tension flares

Location: News

SA calls on Israel to protect civilians and fast-track repatriation as tension flares

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has once again called on Israel to adhere to its obligations under international law and protect civilians as required under the Geneva Conventions and under International Humanitarian Law. 

This comes after reports from Al Jazeera suggested that Israel may delay the repatriation of nationals from countries such as South Africa, Brazil and Ireland due to these countries having called for a ceasefire in Gaza.

“According to reports from the ground in Gaza, Israel is reportedly choosing countries that it considers ‘friendly’ to allow their nationals to leave first. 

“Those countries such as South Africa, which Israel considers ‘unfriendly’ and which have taken a strong stance on the ongoing onslaught are being pushed to the bottom of the list. At the current slow pace at which the Israelis are approving foreign nationals, the turn for South Africans could be after 20 days," DIRCO said in a statement. 

The department said it believes that it is not only foreign nationals who must be allowed to freely exit the Gaza Strip in a timely manner. 

According to the latest data, the department said at least 9 227 Palestinian civilians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza since 7 October. 

Meanwhile, more than 1 400 Israelis, including settlers and soldiers, have been killed in Israel.

“Over the past few days, a school, a hospital, an ambulance, and civilians on roads travelling South have been bombed. 

“The bombing of the ambulance at the gate of Al-Shifa Hospital on Friday killed 15 people, injuring 16 others,” the department said.

It said the targeted air strikes on civilians fleeing South killed 14 Palestinian civilians, among them children. 

“These are serious breaches of international humanitarian law and are war crimes. These actions again illustrate the need for an immediate ceasefire, as overwhelmingly voted for by members of the United Nations General Assembly.”

Meanwhile, the department said ongoing threats by Israel to bomb the Al-Shifa and Al-Quds hospitals, where thousands of displaced civilians are sheltering, must be condemned by the international community.

“South Africa invested resources, together with its IBSA partners, India and Brazil, to build a state-of-the-art cardiothoracic unit at Al-Quds Hospital over six years ago, as Israel at the time was preventing Gazans from leaving to get medical treatment in the West Bank. Threats to bomb the hospital put this investment at risk, but more importantly, countless human lives,” DIRCO said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Mon, 11/06/2023 - 10:20

110 views
Read moreSA calls on Israel to protect civilians and fast-track repatriation as tension flares

Atterbury proudly unveils Village Walk in Pretoria East

Location: MyPR

Village Walk, Atterbury’s latest retail development in Pretoria East, opened to the public yesterday after much anticipation. Village Walk connects two of Atterbury’s already successful retail precincts in the suburb of Hazelwood: The Village – an eclectic food, drink and leisure hub – on 16th Street and The Club precinct which sits between Hazelwood and …

Read moreAtterbury proudly unveils Village Walk in Pretoria East

Disability rights awareness: Making access a lived reality

Location: News

Disability rights awareness: Making access a lived reality

By Nomonde Mnukwa

Since the dawn of our democracy, one of our nation’s priorities have been increasing accessibility for everyone, especially vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities.

Today, in a democratic South Africa, the rights of persons with disabilities are protected, promoted and advanced through legislation and the Constitution, which leaves no room for discrimination on any grounds.

While our laws and policies have been enacted to promote people with disabilities, they should not be viewed by the private and public sector simply as a compliance issue.

Equality for people with disabilities must become a lived reality to enable a societal shift that will ensure people with disabilities fully contribute to the country’s socio-economic growth and development.

As we mark National Disability Rights Awareness Month from 3 November to 3 December, it is a time for introspection on how we can advance the rights of persons with disabilities and ensure that people with disabilities are fully integrated in every area of our society.

Government remains unwavering in its commitment to uplift and improve the lives of disabled people. To facilitate the full participation of people with disabilities, public spaces are being equipped according to the needs of those with disabilities, for example wheel chair-friendly environments.

These spaces improves the quality of life for people with disabilities by enabling their participation and improving accessibility. This supports social cohesion priorities of government and promotes the rights of disabled people.

The recent recognition of South African Sign Language (SASL) as the 12th official language is an important step towards the realisation of the rights of persons who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Through the enactment of the SASL, the language needs of people with hearing impairments are met, helping increase their access to economic and learning opportunities. Moreover, it ensures they have equal protection and benefit under the law.

Learning for children with hearing difficulties is being facilitated through the use of sign language in teaching and learning by the Department of Basic Education. This initiative is helping empower and equip these children to develop their lives beyond their circumstances.

Government is working towards creating economic opportunities for people living with disabilities to enable them to actively participate in the economy and provide for themselves and families. These economic opportunities also give them a sense of fulfilment.

The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities together with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development have collaborated to accelerate inclusion for women, youth and persons with disability in the agricultural sector.

The SASSA disability grant enables over 1 million people with disabilities to live integrated lives in communities.

Whilst government strives to improve access for people with disabilities, we urge organisations, Non-Profit Organisations and civil society to work with us in creating an enabling environment for people with disabilities.

These include spaces with wheel chair ramps, assistive devices, incorporating sign language facilitators for deaf people and braille materials for the blind.

Everyone can lend a helping hand to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities. It can be through helping a disabled person cross the road, volunteering at shelters or learning sign language.

Our actions are inspired by our former President Nelson Mandela who advocated for the rights of disabled persons. Madiba said: “The new South Africa we are building should be accessible and open to everyone... Only then will the rights of the disabled to equal opportunities become a reality”

While we have come a long way in breaking some barriers of access and entry for people with disabilities, more needs to be done to move disability issues into the mainstream. Together we can further advance our democracy by improving access for everyone, especially vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities.

*Mnukwa is the Acting Director-General for the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)

Matona
Mon, 11/06/2023 - 09:58

82 views
Read moreDisability rights awareness: Making access a lived reality

South African Cultural Influences in Graphic Design: Celebrating Diversity and Tradition

Location: MyPR

South African Cultural Influences in Graphic Design: Celebrating Diversity and Tradition South Africa is a melting pot of diverse cultures and traditions that have significantly influenced various aspects of society, including graphic design. The fusion of cultural heritage and contemporary design has created a unique and vibrant landscape in the industry. This article delves into …

Read moreSouth African Cultural Influences in Graphic Design: Celebrating Diversity and Tradition

US reiterates commitment to strengthen relations with Africa

Location: News

US reiterates commitment to strengthen relations with Africa

United States of America Trade Representative, Katherine Tai, has reiterated her country’s commitment to strengthen the U.S.-Africa trade and investment relationship to deliver real opportunities across societies.

Tai was delivering remarks during the closing ceremony of the 20th African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum held in Johannesburg.

She told delegates that she would summarise the interactions that were held over the last three days with the word “commitment”.

“Commitment to strengthen the U.S.-African trade and investment relationship. Commitment to craft a more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive tomorrow across the continent. Commitment to partner with one another to make AGOA stronger and more effective,” she said at the session held on Saturday.

The three-day forum explored the intersection of trade and competition policy and what that means for a fairer economy in Africa and elsewhere. It further discussed how small businesses and women-owned enterprises could be equipped and empowered to succeed and thrive. 

The Africa Growth and Opportunity Act is a unilateral trade preference scheme that provides qualifying sub-Saharan African countries with duty-free, quota-free access into the United States market. AGOA remains the cornerstone of the USA’s commercial relations with sub-Saharan Africa.

Tai also highlighted the need to make the AGOA programme more effective and relevant to today’s challenges, and to explore additional areas of cooperation to complement the programme.

Impact

Tai emphasised that AGOA remains the cornerstone of the U.S. economic partnership with Africa.

“Let us not forget the real impact AGOA has had on real lives, real people: the woman entrepreneur seeking to expand her macadamia nut processing business; the small business owner making apparel and handicrafts, and the countless students and youth, waiting to make their mark on this ever-changing continent.

“So, when we say that AGOA is the cornerstone of our economic partnership, we do not mean it in the abstract. It has been a bedrock to improve the livelihoods of so many people across Africa and it has the potential to do so much more. But we can make it even better,” she said.

Tai reflected on the discussions held over the last three days, saying most of the issues discussed were precisely on this topic. 

She said this made the programme more effective and relevant to today’s challenges, such as growing inequality and the climate crisis.

Furthering cooperation

“As we discussed during the session on ‘What’s Next in our U.S.-Africa Trade Relations’, we must also explore additional areas of cooperation and other trade tools to complement our AGOA relationship.

“This includes collaborating on AfCFTA [African Continental Free Trade Area] implementation and better using the multilateral trading system to benefit more people, particularly underserved communities,” she said. 

The US Ambassador acknowledged that while there is a lot of work ahead, she leaves optimistic and hopeful.

Equitable future

Tai said each of the African perspectives was a powerful reminder to her that trade can and must help craft a fairer and more equitable future for Africa.

“Driving inclusive economic growth. Empowering workers. Delivering real opportunities across all segments of societies, including women, youth, the African Diaspora, and other underserved groups. You all believe that our work has a critical role to play in building this future, and that communal commitment will allow us to accomplish more than we can as individuals.

“It is an understatement to say that this is a partnership. I am honoured to have each of you as colleagues and teammates to use trade as a force for good and to spur a race to the top,” Tai said on the last day of the forum.

The Ambassador urged delegates to stay committed and devoted to the cause. 

“Let us be devoted to our cause. Let us not be satisfied with the status quo. Let us continue to build from here, to write the next chapter of our story together -- to make AGOA a beacon that shines for years to come,” she said. 

Tai used her speech to extend appreciation to South Africa’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel and the South African government for the warm and welcoming hospitality and immense effort taken to make the forum a success.

She further sent a big thank you to her fellow Trade Ministers and their delegations for the productive dialogue and engagement. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Sat, 11/04/2023 - 18:20

233 views
Read moreUS reiterates commitment to strengthen relations with Africa

Patel outlines vision for prosperous Africa united in trade

Location: News

Patel outlines vision for prosperous Africa united in trade

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel has used his address at the 2023 Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum to galvanise the message of a united Africa that is earnestly at work to reclaim its place in the world.

The 20th AGOA Forum is currently taking place at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg, Gauteng, the heart of commerce and trade in South Africa. The forum brings together a large contingent of African Trade Ministers and their delegations, and over 300 delegates from the United States business sector, including the US Chamber of Commerce. Delegates from Business Unity South Africa (Busa), the Black Business Council, Business Leadership South Africa and labour representatives are also in attendance.  

Patel told the gathering that Africa is embracing new ideas and ways of doing things, primarily introduced by the evolution of trade.

“For many years the continent was characterised by a network of trade routes that were used to facilitate the flow of goods among Africans trading in any products including gold, salt, beats and ivory.

“African traders crisscrossed the many lands searching for markets for their goods. Africa has strong leads with other regions, particularly the middle East. The AGOA Forum is an opportunity to renew, refresh and strengthen relationships,” Patel said.

With the advent of many innovations, including the establishment of AGOA, which promotes economic growth by fostering a stronger trade partnership between the United States and African nations, Patel said now is the time for Africa to cement its position in the world economy.

“Our trade investment project is aimed at forging economic unity of all Africans to addressing colonialism that has left Africa a small, divided nation.

“Trade is about reclaiming Africa’s place in the world. Trade has played a role in our history. It has connected and linked communities to new ideas and ways of doing things,” Patel said.

The theme for this year’s forum is, ‘Partnering to Build a Resilient, Sustainable, and Inclusive Agenda to Support Economic Development, Industrialisation and Quality Job Creation’.

Patel urged young people, some of whom are exhibiting their businesses and wares at the forum, to take up the opportunities brought on by AGOA. On the eve of the forum, Patel said about 520 firms were expected to exhibit their products at Nasrec.

He said more African countries could benefit from AGOA. Currently, 35 countries in sub-Saharan Africa have been designated as eligible for AGOA benefits.

“AGOA is a market access arrangement with the US Congress put in place for sub-Saharan countries, and we’ve seen trade with the US being a significant part of our trade with the world,” he said.

To qualify for AGOA, a country must first be eligible for the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programme. The GSP applies to 3 400 products from designated beneficiary countries, plus a further 1 450 products from least developed countries. AGOA supplements the GSP with an additional 1 835 products.

Only Sub-Saharan African countries are eligible for AGOA. The US determines whether countries have met these requirements of eligibility in Section 104 of the Act.

In order to qualify, countries must already be GSP beneficiary countries – though GSP eligibility does not imply AGOA eligibility. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 12:30

882 views
Read morePatel outlines vision for prosperous Africa united in trade

US Secretary reiterates President Biden’s commitment to extend AGOA

Location: News

US Secretary reiterates President Biden's commitment to extend AGOA

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken has reiterated President Joe Biden’s commitment to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) beyond 2025 when it expires. 

“President Biden fully supports the reauthorisation of AGOA. But we don’t just want to extend AGOA – we want to work with the United States Congress to make it better. And that’s what this week’s dialogue is about,” he said on Friday. 

Blinken was addressing delegates through a video speech at the three-day AGOA Forum at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg. 

Launched in 2000, AGOA grants exports from qualifying African countries duty-free access to the United States market. 

“Last year, I travelled to South Africa to lay out the United States strategy to sub-Saharan Africa and to its core, it’s about partnerships -- what the United States can do with African nations and not for African nations.” 

Blinken believes that AGOA is critical to realising this vision as thousands of people in sub-Saharan Africa have benefited in the past two decades. 

“AGOA has meant new jobs, new skills, new connections and new investment. It has meant less corruption and greater human and labour rights.” 

The piece of legislation, according to the United States Secretary of State, has translated into partnerships to advance new solutions to shared challenges from the climate crisis to food insecurity, to supply chain disruptions and vulnerabilities. 

“More inclusive, sustainable growth is good for Africa and good for America and good for the world,” Blinken said.

In addition, he said America was dedicated to December’s African Leaders’ Summit commitments, which are essential to creating economies and societies where trade and investment can flourish. 

Through the Partnership for Global Infrastructure Investment, Blinken believes his country is lending a helping hand to finance projects like the Lobito Corridor between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Zambia and Angola, which will enhance connectivity and make it easier to do business in and with Africa. 

In addition, the United States, Blinken said, is mobilising US$8 billion in private and public investments to bolster climate resistance and advance women’s economic empowerment. 

“We remain the single biggest country investor by far in food security and public health in the region and we’re working on new efforts like our VACS initiative to strengthen African seeds and soils,” he said, adding that they will support elevating African voices in global diplomacy. 

Blinken welcomed the African Union joining the G20 and International Monetary Fund, which is working to expand sub-Saharan representation on its Executive Board. 

On the other hand, he said the United States remain committed to reforming the United Nations Security Council to include permanent representation for Africa.  

“This flourishing partnership between the United States and Africa gives me tremendous hope. And through gatherings like this, we continue to shape a future where workers and businesses are equipped and empowered, where governments are transparent and accountable, where all our people can thrive, and where our nations can come together for the good of our people and the world.” 

AGOA is a United States Trade Act enacted on 18 May 2000 as Public Law 106 of the 200th Congress. 

The AGOA legislation has been renewed on different occasions, most recently in 2015, when its period of validity was extended to September 2025. 

The legislation significantly enhances market access to the United States for qualifying sub-Saharan African countries by allocating special programme indicators to about 6 800 tariff lines in the American tariff schedule. 

This allows United States importers to clear goods sourced from eligible African countries duty-free under AGOA. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 13:06

512 views
Read moreUS Secretary reiterates President Biden’s commitment to extend AGOA

US forges ahead to build stronger relations with Africa under AGOA

Location: News

US forges ahead to build stronger relations with Africa under AGOA

Amid challenging global economic circumstances, United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai believes there is an opportunity to shape a stronger, new and forward-looking vision for United States-Africa trade, where more segments of society are brought in.

"[A vision] where, as President [Joe] Biden would say, ‘the benefits are realised from the bottom up and the middle out,” Tai told delegates on Friday.

In the words of Tai, the United States remains a committed partner as Africa continues this journey.

Tai was speaking at the three-day African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum currently underway at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg.

“As President Biden said at the US-Africa Leaders' Summit last December, ‘the United States is all in on Africa’.” 

African Continental Free Trade Area

Tai, who is the principal trade advisor and spokesperson on United States trade policy, announced that her country backs the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) under the US-AfCFTA Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation for Trade and Investment. 

This comes after the AfCFTA Secretary General, Wamkele Mene, and Tai signed the MoU during the summit.

“We created four Technical Working Groups, and the US government is providing approximately $160 million to support the negotiation and implementation of the AfCFTA,” Tai said. 

This includes support from the United States Agency for International Development, the US Department of Agriculture, and Prosper Africa.

“The United States is here to build and enhance our relationships so that more Africans can enjoy the benefits of economic growth, to empower workers and their communities, and to build fair and equitable societies, not just for today, but for years to come,” Tai said.

She has since called on all stakeholders to work together to further unlock the potential of the partnership to pursue sustainable and equitable growth, especially for women, youth and the African diaspora.

The representative said she was looking to talk about improving utilisation rates, exploring additional trade tools to complement the AGOA relationship, implementing the AfCFTA, and better use of the multilateral trading system for the benefit of underserved groups. 

“All of you in this room play such an important part in fully realising this vision. No one government can get there alone, and that is the power of this forum. A committed and thoughtful community with a common goal of strengthening our US-African trade and investment relationship.”

Tai described AGOA as a vehicle for workers and businesses across Africa.

“This is important, as all of us continue our economic recovery from the COVID pandemic.”

She also shifted her focus to challenges following the pandemic that battered economies, climate crisis, growing inequality and economic insecurity.

“But there have also been positive developments,” Tai said.

The green shoots, she said include trading under the AfCFTA since January 2021 and African Union joining G20 in September this year. 

Tai cited the African Development Bank’s report that stated that five of the world’s 10 fastest-growing economies are projected to be in Africa.

She singled out South Africa, which is ranked one of the largest AGOA users, with the country being the top exporter in 2022, with $3.6 billion in exports. 

“South Africa is leading the continent on other aspects as well, including through its clear commitment to human rights.”

She noted that the total goods imported into the United States under AGOA was about $10 billion in 2022, a significant increase compared to $6.8 billion in 2021.

Meanwhile, the non-petroleum imports –  major sources of new investment and jobs in Africa, went up to $5.7 billion in 2022, from $5 billion in 2021.

“The programme has fostered economic growth and development on the continent to increase investment and to create new jobs and opportunities,” Tai said.  – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 14:27

343 views
Read moreUS forges ahead to build stronger relations with Africa under AGOA

Africa has products for the global market

Location: News

Africa has products for the global market

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says what African producers seek is increased access to markets.

She was speaking on the sidelines of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum held in Johannesburg on Friday.

The Minister explained that producers on the African continent seek even greater access to markets in order to thrive.

“We’ve got a lot of production that is coming from Africa and what we are seeking is more access to markets. There’s been a tendency – and business and organised labour, and also civil society, raised this concern – that the largest trade in AGOA is taking place in minerals and raw products instead of getting the beneficiation.

“We need to get the beneficiation. We need investors to invest here. But there are products from SMMEs, who are now given certification in terms of rules of origin, that they are done on the African continent and therefore they must have access to market there.

“Our agricultural products, for example, were part of the issues that were raised… We’ve got a lot of products not only for the US market but for the global market from the African continent,” Ntshavheni said.

The Minister reiterated President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call for an extended period of extension for the AGOA initiative.

“[During the forum] there were readouts from the various sectors… the private sector, organised labour, civil society, women representatives and the trade ministry and all of them collectively have reiterated the need to make the AGOA extension not a short extension but a longer extension, with a proposal of a 20-year extension so that it can be what the President [Cyril Ramaphosa] deemed the long haul.

“That gives certainty to investors and you can then look in the longer term and a bigger investment. That’s the gist of us being here and we are happy that despite the challenges, the 20th edition of the AGOA Forum is taking place in South Africa,” she said.

The Minister emphasised that Africa is on a growth path that will lead to a strong future.

“We are determined as the African continent that we are going to work together to make sure that Africa is the hub of development. Africa, by 2030, will be the continent with the largest population, therefore it will be the largest market for any global goods and services and therefore, we are going to rely on ourselves,” Ntshavheni said.

The Minister responded to questions related to perceptions of “shaky” relations between South Africa and the US.

“South Africa-US relationships are not shaky. We have South Africans who speak very loudly and express their views, and the Americans also do the same. But the relationship between South Africa and the US has always been solid because they are one of our largest trading partners and we are one of their largest trading partners on the African continent,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 15:32

309 views
Read moreAfrica has products for the global market

Cosatu backs SA’s continued AGOA membership

Location: News

Cosatu backs SA’s continued AGOA membership

Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) President Zingiswa Losi says the federation has thrown its weight behind the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and for its renewal as the country continues to fight joblessness. 

“As a trade federation movement, our responsibility is towards ensuring we protect jobs and that is why we have always had support for our government. 

“But beyond that, we continue to advocate and request our sister federation in the US to be our voice on that side that the United States of America and the Biden administration will be able to renew AGOA for the next 10 years before they go for their elections next year,” she said on Friday. 

Losi was speaking during a media briefing on the sidelines of the AGOA Forum, which is currently underway at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg.

Launched in 2000, AGOA grants exports from qualifying African countries duty-free access to the United States market.

She reflected on the impact of the piece of legislation, which has created 450 000 jobs linked to the United States-Africa trade in different sectors. Losi said the mining, manufacturing, auto manufacturing, clothing, agriculture and jewellery industries have benefited from the legislation through exports. 

The Cosatu President said the federation supports South Africa’s continued AGOA membership. 

“It is also important that that unaligned role is strengthened when we deal with the geopolitics and it’s critical for government and business to simultaneously expand the trade and investment with other large trading partners such as the European Union, China and Japan and as you know we’re also part of the BRICS Trade Union Forum.”  

Diversification, Losi believes, will ensure South Africa is able to trade with all countries to address the 42% unemployment rate, of which 60% of those are youngsters.

“Importantly, for us to do that we need to address issues of energy in the country, crime and corruption and also the issues of rail and infrastructure.” 

Meanwhile, during President Cyril Ramaphosa’s main address, he said he remains concerned about the negative effects that trade restrictions on products like steel, aluminium or citrus fruit have on AGOA utilisation rates.

President Ramaphosa said he hopes the forum will help lay the basis for these to be addressed in future and that more targeted efforts to promote greater levels of investment can help unlock AGOA’s opportunities. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 15:36

143 views
Read moreCosatu backs SA’s continued AGOA membership

Rio Perfumes: South Africa’s Leading Online Fragrance Store Expands Delivery Services

Location: MyPR

Gauteng, South Africa – October 25, 2023 – Rio Perfumes, the number one online fragrance store in South Africa, is excited to announce the expansion of its delivery services. Customers can now enjoy safe and secure door-to-door delivery not only within South Africa but also to Gaborone, Swaziland, Windhoek, and Lusaka. With a commitment to …

Read moreRio Perfumes: South Africa’s Leading Online Fragrance Store Expands Delivery Services

President Ramaphosa calls for substantial lengthening of AGOA

Location: News

President Ramaphosa calls for substantial lengthening of AGOA

An extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) for a longer period of time can act as an instrument to entice investors to pour more resources into the African continent.

“We would like you to look at the extension or renewal of AGOA for a sufficiently lengthy period for it to act as an incentive for investors to build new factories on the African continent.

“As we were going around talking to a number of product producers, the recurring message and word I heard is ‘we can do more…if this opportunity is extended and we can build more capacity if we have certainty that yes, the period of extension will be longer’.

“Shorter periods of extension impede investment ambitions and we therefore want to see a much lengthier period of extension. The United States and Africa… are going to be here for a long time. We are here for the long haul so let us make AGOA a long haul opportunity for all of us,” said President Cyril Ramaphosa at the opening of the AGOA Forum, currently underway at Nasrec in Johannesburg.

The President reflected on the successes that have been made under AGOA for African countries.

“When excluding exports of crude oil under AGOA, the data show that the programme has substantially improved the export competitiveness of certain African products, especially textiles and apparel.

“Apparel exports from Lesotho, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Madagascar and Kenya have not only led to the creation of tens of thousands of jobs but these countries have become reliable producers for American consumers.

“Other parts of manufacturing have also seen success under AGOA. South Africa’s auto exports to the United States under AGOA have contributed to job creation in South Africa and in the auto supply chain within neighbouring countries.

“We value the relationship with the United States, the world’s largest national market, and a country with which we have relationships that go well beyond trade. The African Growth and Opportunity Act – or AGOA – has served as the cornerstone of the US-Africa commercial relationship for more than two decades,” President Ramaphosa said.

Africa on the rise

President Ramaphosa told the forum that trading has been in the DNA of Africans for thousands of years – predating colonial oppression.

“From earlier times, our forebears were already trading not only within Africa but with the rest of the world. They traded right across the continent… but they also traded with the world. Trading is part of our DNA; it is in our blood and it is this trading that we want to modernise and we look for partners to support us in this development as we modernise our trading practices and relations,” he said.

As the continent continues to modernise its trading, it is moving away from being a supplier of raw materials to a producer of ready-made consumer products.

“Africa is an important source of critical raw materials but we do not want to be defined by simply being the producers of commodities. The great industrial opportunity lies instead in the transformation of the rocks that we mine and the metal that we produce into the sophisticated industrial and consumer goods that societies across the world need.

“Gone should be the days when Africa is just seen as a source of rock, soil and dust being exported out of our continent. We now want to produce the products that are finished or near finished, which are utilised in other parts of the world. We want to earn full value for our products,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said he remains concerned about the negative effects that trade restrictions on products like steel, aluminium or citrus fruit have on AGOA utilisation rates.

“We hope that the discussions at this forum will help lay the basis for these to be addressed in future.”

The President said more targeted efforts to promote greater levels of investment can help to unlock AGOA’s opportunities.

The purpose of the forum is to discuss ways to expand trade and investment relations between the United States and sub-Saharan Africa, and the implementation of AGOA, including encouraging joint ventures between small and large businesses. - SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 13:07

125 views
Read morePresident Ramaphosa calls for substantial lengthening of AGOA