CSA To Host Proteas Women National Camp Ahead Of Bangladesh Visit
TSHWANE: In the build-up to the inbound white-ball tour against Bangladesh between 03 – 23 December, Cricket South Africa (CSA)...
South Africa
SA Domestic Teams Gear Up For Intense Red-Ball Campaign
JOHANNESBURG: The Cricket South Africa (CSA) 4-Day Series is well underway in the second division, and Division 1 teams will...
AGOA an opportunity to elevate labour standards and social justice issues
AGOA an opportunity to elevate labour standards and social justice issues
The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum creates a significant opportunity to elevate issues associated with labour standards and social justice.
This is according to Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi who delivered opening remarks at the Organised Labour and Civil Society AGOA Forum on Thursday.
“We exist within complex social and economic environments that are ever changing. But our goals should be to achieve social justice and decent work for all people through a focus on decreasing unpaid labour, increasing social protection, doing away with employment discrimination, increasing wages, and improving job security.
“Through these efforts we could contribute significantly to raising the standard of living within our communities,” he said.
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.
The Minister highlighted that an important component of the AGOA built into the AGOA Act are issues of labour, employment and human rights.
He said that each AGOA Forum has had a Civil Society Forum on the fringes which has included organised labour and civil society organisations from AGOA eligible countries.
However, the Organised Labour and Civil Society Forum being hosted in South Africa marks the first time that organised labour is elevated as a separate sector.
“From a South African perspective we see this as a significant step to elevate some key issues in relation to employment, labour rights and trade matters,” the Minister said.
Nxesi said Africa has a youthful workforce and this creates a significant opportunity for the development of the continent.
“To be able to leverage this immense potential it is becoming increasingly important to consider the forces at play in shaping the future of work globally and on the continent.
“The digital transformation and technological advancements in and across sectors create immense opportunities for greater diversification within sectors of the economy however, they also pose challenges to our labour and social fabric.
“Therefore, as we grapple with the integration and mainstreaming of these forces into our communities we should not lose sight of the importance of respecting, promoting and realising fundamental principles and rights at work,” he said.
Guided by international labour standards, the Minister said stakeholders should seek to create resilient, sustainable and inclusive communities with greater levels of equity that lead to the improvement of living standards.
Nxesi said the question that needs to be asked is: “How do we best utilise the opportunities which come with AGOA to expand trade and investment – but in such a way that we create employment, thus improving the conditions of our people – whilst also strengthening human and labour rights?” – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 09:13
148 views
Emerging Black Innovator and Entrepreneur Ezra Rasethe: Democratizing Wealth Creation in South Africa through Property Investment
Ezra Rasethe, Founder and CEO of InvestRand, is spearheading a mission to democratize wealth creation in the country. InvestRand empowers ordinary individuals to build long-term wealth through property investment. The innovative marketplace partners with everyday South Africans, providing them with the knowledge and tools to achieve their investment goals, whether it’s capital growth, passive income, …
The Ultimate Guide to On-Page SEO in 2023
Dive deep into the world of on-page SEO with our comprehensive guide. Learn about optimising title tags, crafting compelling meta descriptions, utilising header tags effectively, enhancing images for SEO, and more. Discover best practices and common pitfalls to avoid, ensuring your website ranks high and attracts quality traffic. Introduction In the ever-evolving landscape of digital …
Tshwane must stop violating Hammanskraal residents’ rights
Following the cholera outbreak in Hammanskraal, the City needs to comply with the Public Protector’s orders
Military Veterans commence payment pension benefit to eligible military veterans
The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Thandi Modise promulgated the Military Veterans Regulations on the 06th of October 2023 through the Government Gazette. Following the publication of the Regulations, the Government Pension Administration Agency (GPAA) started the admission and processing of prospective pension beneficiaries. The first batch of approved applicants received their first monthly pension benefit yesterday, the 01 November 2023, and will be getting their payments at the end of each month.
The Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Mr Thabang Makwetla, is pleased to announce the initial commencement of the payment of military veteran's pension benefit to eligible military veterans. The Presidential Task Team (PTT) has been seized with this process since its establishment by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The PTT in consultation with Military Veteran's Associations; the Department of Military Veterans; and the Government Pension Administration Agency (GPAA) have been hard at work to ensure that the disbursement of the Military Veterans Pension benefit, is paid out to all deserving military veterans.
“Today marks the beginning of yet another important milestone in our ongoing efforts to address the plight of military veterans in accordance with the provision of the Military Veterans Act No 18 of 2011” said Deputy Minister Makwetla.
According to GPAA Director of Special Pensions, Mr Kabelo Jonathan, military veterans should note that payments will be made from the date of approval of the applications. All applicants who have been contacted by GPAA, are required to submit the bank forms (Z894), bank statements and other relevant documents for prompt processing and payment of the military veteran's pension. To date, 18 119 applications have been received for the pension benefit of military veterans.
Military Veterans are urged to apply for this pension benefit and submit their applications to the Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Defence, Republic of South Africa.
Dlamini Zuma kick starts Disability Rights Awareness Month Campaign
South Africa joins the global community to commemorate Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM) from 3 November to 3 December. Disability is an evolving concept and is the consequence of an impairment that may be physical, cognitive, mental, sensory, emotional, developmental, or some combination of these.
Disability may be present from birth, or occur during a person's lifetime. It may be permanent, temporary or episodic in nature. The 2023 DRAM theme is “CONSOLIDATE and ACCELERATE RIGHTS of PERSONS with DISABILITIES INTO THE FUTURE”.
This is a testament to the Bill of Rights that confirms that everyone has a right to life, equality and human dignity. “People with disabilities should not be excluded from their constitutional rights due to disability,” said Minister Dlamini Zuma.
The National Disability Rights Policy, namely, the White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities aligns with the National Development Plan and the Strategic Priorities of the Sixth Administration in calling for Economic Transformation and Job Creation.
“While people with disabilities continue to be unemployed and underemployed, it remains important to promote and support the empowerment of persons with disabilities to reduce economic vulnerability”, said Minister Dlamini Zuma.
The DWYPD has presented to cabinet on the sixth annual progress report on the implementation of the White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities calling for an increase of the 2% minimum employment equity target to 3% for persons with disabilities for the 2024-2025 financial year, towards the progressive realisation of the minimum 7% employment equity target for persons with disabilities by 2030.
Cabinet approved the latter and departments are encouraged to urgently implement measures to recruit persons with disabilities, including headhunting. The 2023 DRAM makes a clarion call by emphasising the urgency of the implementation of reducing economic vulnerability, releasing human capital and supporting sustainable integrated community life.
“Commemorating Disability Awareness Month offers an opportunity for all of us to remove social barriers and perceptions while improving the quality of life of people with disabilities through concrete action of Empowering Persons with Disabilities through Resourceful, Sustainable and Safe Environments”, added Minister Dlamini Zuma.
Minister Dlamini Zuma calls on all South Africans, and various organisations, institutions, and individuals to play their part in raising awareness on the need to uphold disability rights throughout the month and beyond.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities.
Rugby World Cup win demonstrates power of transformation
Rugby World Cup win demonstrates power of transformation
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the 2023 Rugby World Cup (RWC) win has demonstrated the power of transformation.
“The Springboks are a potent symbol of just how far we have come as a people. That is why you have been so warmly embraced by South Africans of all races as their own,” President Ramaphosa said.
This was the fourth victory by the Springboks for the championship. All four championships have taken place during South Africa’s democratic years.
The President reflected on when former Boks captain Francois Pienaar and President Nelson Mandela lifted the Webb Ellis Cup at Ellis Park Stadium on 24 June 1995.
“Our democracy was just over one year old. South Africa had just been readmitted to World Rugby three years earlier. There was only one black player on the team, the legendary Chester Williams. It was a monumental, historic and deeply symbolic occasion. This win is also monumental,” he said.
The Springboks won the 2023 RWC against New Zealand at the finals in Paris, France, on Saturday, 28 October 2023.
Welcoming the Rugby World Cup champions at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Thursday, the President was joined by scores of Springbok supporters across different age groups and races, who filled the streets and cheered for the team.
They were in high spirits, proudly wearing their Springbok jerseys as they celebrated and chanted the names of their favourite players.
A large media contingent was also present to capture the Webb Ellis Cup parade, which kicked off in Pretoria. The world champions are embarking on a four-day Trophy Tour to major regional population centres from Thursday, with the next stop being in Johannesburg and Soweto, concluding at FNB Stadium.
“Never in the history of the Rugby World Cup has any team lifted the trophy on four occasions. Until now. In doing so, you have lifted the spirits of an entire nation and filled us with pride.
“You have united the South African people. The words 'Amabokobo', 'Go Bokke' are being shouted from the rooftops by black and white, young and old, urban and rural dwellers, in all our national languages. Over the past eight weeks, this country has been a sea of green and gold.
“People who haven’t even followed rugby before or been interested in the game are now talking with confidence about scrums, rucks, drop kicks and tries,” the President said.
He said the performance of the Springboks in this year’s Rugby World Cup has captured people’s imagination and energised them in a way not seen in a long time.
“It has reminded us that even amidst our many challenges, there is always room for optimism and hope. I have said before that we do not make light of the challenges our country faces. We certainly do not imagine that a sporting victory can or will wish them away.
“Your journey to victory in France on Saturday night was as much about our journey towards nationhood as it was about sporting excellence. It was as much about the power of transformation,” said the President.
He said Amabokoboko are testament to the power of a dream.
“Every young boy and girl in this country today – whether they are black, white, Indian or coloured – now knows they don’t have to be content with dreaming of becoming like you. They know they can be you,” the President said.
The Springbok rugby team tour will continue in Cape Town (Friday, 3 November) and Durban (Saturday, 4 November) before concluding in the Eastern Cape (East London) on Sunday, 5 November.
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi expressed gratitude to South Africans for supporting the team during the tournament.
“We, as a team, chose to dedicate this World Cup to you because you are the reason we are where we are today. Your resilient spirit, how hard you work and the things that you go through to be where you are in life.
“Your support kept us going. We are very diverse and we wanted to show that diversity is our strength in South Africa. We need to use our diversity. It is a powerful force that many countries do not have and that we can use.
“When we work together regardless of our backgrounds, we put South Africa first and work for South Africa. That is what we did. We did it by playing rugby,” Kolisi said.
South African Rugby Union (SARU) President Mark Alexander said the team’s victory is a testament of the unwavering support and boundless passion of the millions of South Africans who supported the team.
“Your Tik Toks, YouTube and Facebook posts celebrating the victories played a role in motivating our team as they fought brilliantly on the field. Our team has achieved a historic fourth Rugby World Cup, an epic accomplishment that could not have been possible without the dedication and commitment of our players, led by the coaching team,” Alexander said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 11/02/2023 - 11:56
554 views
eXp Realty Unveils Innovative Partnership with HomeHunter To Streamline International Property Search
eXp Realty®, “the most agent-centric real estate brokerage on the planet™” and the core subsidiary of eXp World Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: EXPI), announced today a new partnership with HomeHunter, an innovative web application designed to improve the home search process for consumers across Europe, the Middle East, South Africa, India, Australia and New Zealand. HomeHunter …
Fishing Industry marks milestone with inaugural awards
October was a month of many milestones for South Africa with a thrilling Rugby World Cup win and a promising show on the Cricket pitch too. Amongst all this excitement, one of the country’s key sectors quietly gathered on Saturday 21 October for a milestone of their own. Captains of the fishing industry gathered to …
RTMC celebrates producing one million discs via online platform
RTMC celebrates producing one million discs via online platform
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) is celebrating the significant milestone of successfully producing and delivering one million vehicle driving licensing discs via their online system.
A total of 1 058 000 motor vehicle licences have been renewed online. To mark the occasion, RTMC CEO, Advocate Makhosini Msibi, personally delivered a disc to Lukie Mashishi in Ivory Park, Tembisa, on Thursday.
“You have saved yourself time to go to a licensing centre where you would stand in a queue. We deliver the disc to you in the comfort of your home. We are partnering with people like you to improve our services. Everybody has been saying we are bad as government, but this bears testimony that we are improving,” Msibi said.
He applauded Mashishi for using the NaTIS online system and embracing the fourth industrial revolution in a government online service.
The RTMC platform is the only online motor vehicle licence renewal service in the country that does not charge administration or services fees. The cost of the motor vehicle licence fees and courier services are the only costs that are levied.
Mashishi was excited to receive his disc. He said it was unbelievable that his disc had been delivered in two days.
“I was initially sceptical to do this transaction online, but I said let me give it a try. It really works and I am glad to be one of the million people who have used the online system. I wish the service can grow and serve more people,” he said.
Mashishi said he was assisted by his 13-year-old to do the transaction and was surprised by how easy it was.
“By reaching the one million mark, the NaTIS online has proven to be the fastest growing, reliable, and cost-effective platform to utilise to renew motor vehicle licence discs throughout the country.
“The platform was launched in February 2022 and since then, the service has grown in leaps and bounds as it has been able to bring convenience to hundreds of thousands of motorists throughout the country,” the RTMC said.
Despite encountering teething problems initially, the platform has since proven to be resilient and a time saving, seamless digital service, which delivers on its promises.
The RTMC extends heartfelt appreciation and applauds all South Africans who have embraced and continuously make use of this innovative system.
“With great pride, the RTMC acknowledges the substantial progress made in its pursuit of delivering a world-class service to the citizens of South Africa.
“Prospective applicants are encouraged to take advantage of the convenient service, enabling them to renew their licences from anywhere in the country with the simple click of a button. Motor vehicle discs are delivered to all addresses throughout the country,” the RTMC said.
To access the platform, motorists are encouraged to visit: online.natis.gov.za.
“Vehicle owners can update their contact details on the platform to be able to receive reminder notifications and forms to be used when renewing licences. The process is quick and easy and offers motorists an ability to check the status of their driving licenses cards,” the RTMC said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 11/02/2023 - 14:21
18 views
Excellent Communications From MAHLE SA’s CSR Draws International Attention
• MAHLE South Africa has received international recognition by winning the IPRA Golden World Awards for Excellence • The Award was handed over at a glittering Gala Dinner in Barcelona Spain. • MAHLE’s continues to be committed advancing Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths subjects in underprivileged communities. MAHLE South Africa, a subsidiary of the MAHLE …
Milken–Motsepe Prize in Green Energy Finalists Announced
The Milken Institute and the Motsepe Foundation (https://MilkenMotsepePrize.org) today announced the five teams (https://apo-opa.info/3tXVKZw) advancing to the Finalist Round of the Milken–Motsepe Prize in Green Energy. Each finalist team will receive $70,000 to further develop and test their designs in a live field test demonstration in South Africa next year.
The finalist teams are:
- AfTrak Micro Electric Agriculture and Energy (https://apo-opa.info/3QprXQS), for its innovative system of using solar microgrids to power custom-designed tractors for deep-bed farming;
- GEG ehf. (https://GEGpower.is/), for its solar- and geothermal-powered hybrid renewable energy system;
- New Digit Technologies (https://apo-opa.info/40q1yXR), for its compact, portable device to generate energy and purify water;
- OMNIVAT (https://www.OMNIVAT.tech/), for its containerized electricity generation and storage system for remote communities; and,
- Smart Agri-Centres (https://e4sv.org/), for its solar-powered community hubs that provide affordable clean energy and services to farmers.
“Access to electricity can advance industrialization across Africa and improve the standards of living for many marginalized communities,” said Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, co-founder and CEO of the Motsepe Foundation. “These finalists are building innovative solutions to deliver on the promise of a sustainable future, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. We will be delighted to welcome them to South Africa for the live demonstrations next year.”
An independent panel of expert judges determined the five teams continuing to the Finalist Round based on a rigorous evaluation of real-world data.
Judges will continue to evaluate competing teams' abilities to meet the challenge of generating 60kWh of electricity in a 24-hour period by:
- demonstrating off-grid electricity generation using green energy sources;
- validating demonstration results with data collection; and
- providing affordable and reliable electricity to energy-poor communities, as informed by the demonstration.
“These finalists have once again proven the value of the innovation competition model in driving breakthroughs,” said Emily Musil Church, PhD, senior director at the Milken Institute. “The Semifinalist Round pushed these teams to stretch their limits and build solutions that are scalable and life-changing for millions.”
To date, the competition has awarded US$750,000 to entrepreneurs testing bold ideas to expand access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity in Africa.
In May 2024, the judges will award a US$1 million Grand Prize. A runner-up prize of US$250,000 will also be awarded. In total, the Milken–Motsepe Prize in Green Energy will award over US$2 million in prizes and additional benefits.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Program.
Media Contact:
Chad Clinton
+1 (202) 262-1067
cclinton@milkeninstitute.org
About the Milken Institute:
The Milken Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank focused on accelerating measurable progress on the path to a meaningful life. With a focus on financial, physical, mental, and environmental health, we bring together the best ideas and innovative resourcing to develop blueprints for tackling some of our most critical global issues through the lens of what's pressing now and what's coming next. For more information, visit www.MilkenInstitute.org
About the Motsepe Foundation:
The Motsepe Foundation was founded in 1999 by Dr. Patrice Motsepe and his wife, Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe. The goal of the Motsepe Foundation is to contribute towards eradicating poverty and to sustainably improve the living conditions and standards of living of poor, unemployed, and marginalized people in South Africa, Africa, and the world. In January 2013, Dr. Patrice Motsepe and Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe joined the Giving Pledge, which was started by Warren Buffet and Bill and Melinda Gates. Dr. Patrice Motsepe and his wife committed to give half of their wealth to the poor and for philanthropic purposes during their lifetime and beyond.
Government recognises media’s role in advancing democracy
Government recognises media’s role in advancing democracy
The South African government has joined calls for the protection of journalists’ rights, particularly during a time when South Africa is preparing for national elections.
According the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization UNESCO violence against journalists intensifies during election cycles.
“Professional journalism and a free and objective press are cornerstones of democracy and serve to hold society accountable. We acknowledge the essential role journalists play in our democracy fighting for truth. We condemn any form of violence or intimidation against journalists domestically and internationally.
“South Africa remains committed to supporting a free and independent press. The protection of journalists is of utmost importance, as it is a form of protection of our own rights”, said Acting Director-General of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Nomonde Mnukwa on Thursday.
Following the assassination of two French journalists in Mali in 2013, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/68/163, which proclaimed November 2 as the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.
The resolution mobilises United Nations member states to intensify efforts to prevent violence against journalists and create a conducive environment for them to perform their work.
“This day provides an opportunity for all who believe in the advancement of democratic values and the preservation of citizen’s constitutional rights to speak out against any form of violence or harassment of journalists,” Mnukwa said.
Last month, South Africa commemorated Black Wednesday, which aims to raise awareness about the rights of journalists and remembers those who lost their lives fighting for the dignity of the profession.
In August, GCIS hosted a panel discussion with more than 100 journalism and communication students at the Tshwane University of Technology on the topic of Cyberbullying of female journalists, to create awareness on the harassment, discrimination and violence they face in the line of duty.
Furthermore, GCIS is planning to host a webinar on “Violence Against Journalists and the Integrity of Elections,” in the coming week.
“This is to ensure that, leading up to the election period next year, everyone is cognisant that journalists keep society informed, and foster democratic discourse and integrity of electoral processes. Details of the Webinar will be shared shortly.
“Government also commends the work done by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) as well as the South African National Editors Forum (SANEF) and various partners on the workshops they have been hosting across the country to prepare media for reporting on the upcoming 2024 national general elections,” GCIS said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 11/02/2023 - 12:39
135 views
CSA Announces Crop Of Rising Stars For First-Ever Sa20 U19 Women’s Camp
TSHWANE: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has announced a 26-player squad for the inaugural SA20 U19 Women’s Camp set to take...
Tourism opens request for proposals for Tourism Equity Fund (TEF)
Request for proposals for the Tourism Equity Fund opens.
The Department of Tourism together with the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (sefa), an agency within the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) is pleased to announce the opening of the application process for the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF) starting from Monday 6 November 2023.
Following the Cabinet's approval in September 2023 for the revised TEF to be implemented, we are delighted to announce that the Request for Proposals for funding from the TEF is now open to businesses.
The R1.2 billion TEF aims to increase growth, and transformation and stimulate more inclusive participation in the tourism sector in line with the targets of the Tourism B-BBEE Sector Codes. The TEF is intended to address the funding challenges faced by Qualifying Small Enterprises and Emerging Micro Enterprises in the tourism sector.
The TEF will be implemented by:
- Assessing and scoring applications against jobs to be sustained and/or jobs to be created, location and geographic spread, and targeted groups (youth, women, and people with disabilities).
- Department of Tourism and sefa in partnership with banking and/or financial institutions in the Republic of South Africa, which includes, amongst others, banks and developmental finance institutions that will offer affordable and tailor-made financial solutions, in an attempt to close funding gaps in the market, through the provision of a blended finance solution.
- Disbursing a total of 80% of the TEF funds to existing Small Medium and Micro Enterprises in the market to enable these businesses to grow. The remaining allocation of 20% of the funds will be disbursed to new businesses.
sefa will implement, execute, and manage the Fund through a Fund Management Agreement signed with the Department of Tourism. The Department will support and monitor the implementation of the TEF on a monthly basis.
The TEF places significant emphasis on providing support to tourism enterprises that meet the qualifying criteria, including a minimum of 30% Black ownership either before or after the financial support. The TEF is exclusively dedicated to investing in various sub-sectors within the tourism industry as prescribed in the Tourism B-BBEE Sector Codes.
The Department of Tourism is committed to enhancing transformation in the tourism sector, and the TEF aims to contribute towards achieving transformation goals in this important sector of our economy.
“The funding structure comprises grant funding, and debt financing, to meet the distinct needs of tourism enterprises that are either seeking equity acquisition, investment in new developments, or expansion of their existing businesses,” Minister de Lille said.
The TEF is backed by formidable public-private partnerships, which support the participation of private, commercial, and non-commercial banks, and various developmental funding institutions.
“The collaboration between public and private entities serves as a notable example of successful cooperation in advancing a more inclusive and prosperous tourism sector,” Minister de Lille added.
Minister de Lille concluded: “As stated before. the Department of Tourism remains committed to advancing the transformation agenda through creating equitable opportunities to realise an inclusive and revived tourism economy.”
With consideration of Regulation Gazette No 11067, Volume 697, No 49018 published on 25 July 2023, withdrawing Regulation Gazette No 11241, Volume 668 of 19 February 2021. No 44172, all applicants (including previous applicants) are encouraged to submit new applications that will align with the new qualifying criteria of TEF.
For more information on the Tourism Equity Fund and the application process, please visit the Department of Tourism's website: https://apo-opa.info/3QIzYSG
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Small Business Development, Republic of South Africa.
Tourism announces opening of application process for TEF
Tourism announces opening of application process for TEF
The Department of Tourism, together with the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa) - an agency within the Department of Small Business Development, has announced the opening of the application process for the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF) on Monday, 06 November 2023.
“Following Cabinet’s approval in September 2023 for the revised TEF to be implemented, we are delighted to announce that the Request for Proposals for funding from the TEF is now open to businesses,” the Department of Tourism said in a statement.
The R1.2 billion TEF aims to increase growth and transformation, and stimulate more inclusive participation in the tourism sector in line with the targets of the Tourism B-BBEE Sector Codes.
The TEF is intended to address the funding challenges faced by Qualifying Small Enterprises and Emerging Micro Enterprises in the tourism sector.
The TEF will be implemented by:
- Assessing and scoring applications against jobs to be sustained and/or jobs to be created, location and geographic spread, and targeted groups (youth, women, and people with disabilities).
- Department of Tourism and Sefa in partnership with banking and/or financial institutions in the Republic of South Africa, which includes, amongst others, banks and developmental finance institutions that will offer affordable and tailor-made financial solutions, in an attempt to close funding gaps in the market, through the provision of a blended finance solution.
- Disbursing a total of 80% of the TEF funds to existing Small Medium and Micro Enterprises in the market to enable these businesses to grow. The remaining allocation of 20% of the funds will be disbursed to new businesses.
“Sefa will implement, execute and manage the Fund through a Fund Management Agreement signed with the Department of Tourism. The Department will support and monitor the implementation of the TEF on a monthly basis,” the department said.
The TEF places significant emphasis on providing support to tourism enterprises that meet the qualifying criteria, including a minimum of 30% Black ownership either before or after the financial support.
The TEF is exclusively dedicated to investing in various sub-sectors within the tourism industry as prescribed in the Tourism B-BBEE Sector Codes.
The department said it is committed to enhancing transformation in the tourism sector and the TEF aims to contribute towards achieving transformation goals in this important sector of the economy.
“The funding structure comprises grant funding, and debt financing, to meet the distinct needs of tourism enterprises that are either seeking equity acquisition, investment in new developments, or expansion of their existing businesses,” Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said.
The TEF is backed by public-private partnerships which support the participation of private, commercial, and non-commercial banks, and various developmental funding institutions.
“The collaboration between public and private entities serves as a notable example of successful cooperation in advancing a more inclusive and prosperous tourism sector.
“The Department of Tourism remains committed to advancing the transformation agenda through creating equitable opportunities to realise an inclusive and revived tourism economy,” de Lille said.
With consideration of Regulation Gazette No 11067, Volume 697, No 49018 published on 25 July 2023, withdrawing Regulation Gazette No 11241, Volume 668 of 19 February 2021. No 44172, all applicants (including previous applicants) are encouraged to submit new applications that will align with the new qualifying criteria of TEF.
For more information on the Tourism Equity Fund and the application process visit: https://www.tourism.gov.za/CurrentProjects/Tourism_Equity_Fund/Pages/Tourism_Equity_Fund.aspx - SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 11/02/2023 - 11:55
45 views
Here’s how South Africa’s social grant system has changed since 1994
SASSA pays 26-million grants every month
Betway SA20 Season 2 – Tickets on sale
Grammy award-winning Zakes Bantwini headlines opening match entertainment Popular 20 000 for R20 tickets promotion is back for Season 2...
De Kock, Vd Dussen Tons Overcome NZ As Proteas Continue To Soar
PUNE: Quinton de Kock recorded his fourth century of the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup and Rassie van der Dussen struck...
AGOA Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum
AGOA Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum
By Michael Currin
Growing business, trade and investment ties between sub-Saharan African nations that are part of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act and the United States (US) holds enormous benefits for the two regions.
Last year the combined two-way trade between AGOA beneficiaries and the United States exceeded $46 billion and there is strong potential for further growth as trade and investment is deepened.
These trade and investment opportunities will be explored at the 2023 AGOA Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum, which is being hosted by South Africa at the Johannesburg Expo Centre from 2-4 November 2023.
The forum, attended by a senior delegation from the United States and 35 Sub-Saharan Africa Trade Ministers, will seek to strengthen trade and investment. Moreover, with African Regional Economic Communities, civil society, organised and business representatives in attendance, it also encourages regional integration.
There is ample room for growth between the US and Africa, particularly in the critical mineral value chain which is at the centre of the global clean energy transition. The continent is a major producer of cobalt, copper, bauxite, chromium, high purity iron ore, platinum group metals and lithium which is needed for the global energy transition.
Those who partner with the continent will have access to these critical resources to spur on and benefit from the clean energy revolution. The International Energy Agency’s World Energy Outlook 2022 foresees demand for these critical minerals more than doubling by 2030 and quadrupling by 2050.
The forum also reaffirms Africa as a capable economic partner and a lucrative destination for growth and investment. Sub-Saharan African economies are on the rise following the impact of COVD-19 with the International Monetary Fund's Regional Economic Outlook forecasting their growth by 4.2 per cent in 2024 from 3,6 per cent in 2023.
Alongside the forum will be the Made in Africa exhibition that will display the products of more than 500 companies from across Sub-Saharan Africa. It will exhibit the region’s agricultural, automotive, chemicals, metals and minerals, mining and machinery, clothing and textiles, leather and footwear and the boatbuilding sector products.
Significantly, this forum is the last engagement hosted in Sub-Saharan African before the expiry of the current iteration of the African Growth and Opportunity Act in June 2025. AGOA has been at the core of United States economic policy and commercial engagement with Africa.
It was signed into law on 18 May 2000 to provide duty-free exports of goods from 40 sub-Saharan African countries to the United States, giving them a competitive advantage in the lucrative US market.
There are over 5240 tariff items that qualify for the AGOA ranging from apparel and footwear, wine, certain motor vehicle components, a variety of agricultural products, chemicals as well as steel.
The 2023 AGOA Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum is an opportunity to lobby for the renewal of AGOA beyond 2025 as a mutually beneficial platform for global exchange and growth for the industries involved, and as a gateway to the vibrant African market. An extension of AGOA will promote inward investment in Africa and deepen the impact of industrialisation on the continent.
Furthermore, it will also support our efforts to increase trade through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) that covers 54 countries and 1.4 billion people. It is anticipated that Africa’s trade will be greatly boosted by AfCFTA and the US stands to gain access to a single market, which is projected to grow to 1.7 billion people and $6.7 trillion in consumer and business spending by 2030.
The trade relationship between the US and South Africa has greatly benefitted from the AGOA agreement.
South Africa remains a key source of raw materials for the American economy and has become one of the region’s top 3 exporters to the US. The most success has been in our automobile sector which is the country’s biggest single beneficiary of the programme. Our local citrus industry has also benefited with the Western Cape exporting approximately R1.6 billion worth of citrus to the US under AGOA in 2022.
Other leading exports to the US included iron and steel, edible fruits, organic chemicals and precious stones. It helped create a total of 62 395 direct and indirect jobs, while overall AGOA generated an estimated 350 000 direct and 1.3-million indirect jobs in Sub-Saharan Africa.
South Africa looks forward to welcoming stakeholders from the US and across the continent to the forum. The stronger ties will ensure reciprocal trade and investment that will benefit both the US and Africa.
* Michael Currin is the Deputy Director-General Intergovernmental Coordination and Stakeholder Management at the Government Communication and Information System
Janine
Thu, 11/02/2023 - 08:54
287 views
Government addressing deficiencies that led to grey listing
Government addressing deficiencies that led to grey listing
Government is working hard to address deficiencies in the fight against organised crime and illegal financial flows, says Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana.
“Since February, when South Africa was grey listed by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a large number of government departments and agencies – including the police and the Hawks, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Special Investigating Unit (SIU), State Security Agency (SSA), the Reserve Bank, Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) and South African Revenue Service (SARS) – have been working hard to address these deficiencies,” the Minister said.
Delivering the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement on Wednesday in Parliament, he said last week the FATF noted at its plenary meeting that such work is showing positive results.
South Africa has addressed 15 of the 20 technical deficiencies in its legal framework and has made good progress on 17 of the 22 effectiveness action items, including two that are now deemed to be largely addressed.
“However, there is also a significant amount of work that must still be done, particularly with regard to the investigation and prosecution of complex money laundering cases and terror financing, the identification of informal mechanisms for remitting money around the world, and the recovery of the proceeds from crime and corruption,” the Minister said.
Government expects to address all the deficiencies identified by the FATF by early 2025.
“We are also devising ways to make better and more targeted use of the Criminal Asset Recovery Account (CARA) to address crime. Among these efforts, and emanating from the Presidential project on illicit mining strategy, a recommendation has been made for Cabinet to consider using money from the fund to combat illegal mining.
“The South African Police Service, The Defence Force, the Financial Intelligence Centre, the Department of Home Affairs and the Border Management Authority have all received allocations from this fund,” the Minister said.
Improving efficiencies
He said over the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period, the focus is on improving efficiency and reprioritising funds towards key programmes.
The SAPS will contain costs and streamline operations as headcounts decline due to natural attrition.
“It will foster partnerships with communities and implement reforms to optimise resource allocation, training and technology. Government will continue to fill critical posts in the Border Management Agency and verify assets transferred from departments to the agency.
“To reduce employee compensation pressure, the Department of Defence will implement human resource reforms and review commuted overtime and allowance policies. Furthermore, funds will be reallocated in the Department of Defence to provide for day-to-day maintenance and emergency repairs,” the Minister said.
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development will reallocate funds over the MTEF period to capacitate the Office of the Legal Services Ombud.
“Funding will also be shifted from the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development to Legal Aid South Africa to improve its capacity to provide legal representation in land rights matters.
“To strengthen its independence, the Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services will become a government component in 2024/25. Concomitant resources, currently in the baseline of the Department of Correctional Services, will be transferred with the inspectorate,” the Minister said.
Government will continue to fill critical posts in the Border Management Agency and verify assets transferred from departments to the agency. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 11/01/2023 - 14:04
623 views
Revenue collection projected to decline
Revenue collection projected to decline
Revenue collection is expected to fall by some R56 billion below the 2023 Budget predictions, according to the National Treasury Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS).
The MTBPS notes that slowing commodity exports, slower growth, downward revisions of the tax base growth, slowing corporate tax collections and lower net VAT collections have all impacted tax revenue.
The 2023 Budget had projected collections would reach some R1.78 trillion but that has now been revised down to R1.73 trillion.
“In recent years, revenue collection has benefited from a pattern of high prices for South Africa’s commodity exports. In the current year, commodity prices have fallen faster than expected and value‐added tax (VAT) refund claims have risen, resulting in revenue collections projected to be R56.8 billion below 2023 Budget estimates.
“The moderate revenue outlook is limited by the domestic economic outlook and negative shifts in the global economy,” the department said.
This as Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana tabled the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement in Parliament on Wednesday.
Key factors which have affected revenue collection in the first half of 2023/24 include:
- Significantly reduced mining sector profitability. Mining provisional corporate tax collections fell by R24.6 billion or 55.4 percent relative to the same period in 2022/23. Lower commodity prices, weaker global growth, increased incidence of power cuts and logistical constraints have weighed heavily on the sector.
- VAT refund payments are R21.5 billion higher relative to the same period last year due to stronger-than-expected exports; increased investments in embedded generation; and higher costs of doing business, including the use of more expensive road rather than rail transport. Stronger import VAT collections partially offset robust VAT refund payments.
- A sustained recovery in earnings and higher bonus payments have benefited personal income tax collections, with employees’ tax from the finance sector driving the strong year-to-date growth.
“The tax-to-GDP ratio is expected to decline to 24.7 percent in 2023/24 from 25.1 percent in 2022/23. A recovery in this ratio depends on more sustainable economic growth.
“Main budget revenue estimates for 2023/24 have been lowered by R44.4 billion compared with the 2023 Budget, mainly driven by lower estimates for tax revenue, while National Revenue Fund receipts have been revised up by R11.3 billion mainly due to higher expected revaluation profits from foreign-currency transactions,” Treasury said.
Future revenue
The department said due to the increased fiscal consolidation that is required, “the Minister of Finance will propose tax measures to raise additional revenue of R15 billion in 2024/25 in the 2024 Budget”.
“Tax revenues are expected to increase to R2.1 trillion, or 25.1 percent of GDP, by 2026/27. Revenue collection, however, is projected to fall short of 2023 Budget estimates by R121.4 billion between 2024/25 and 2025/26, with tax buoyancies generally lower over the medium term.
“Relative to the 2023 Budget, main budget revenue estimates for the next two years have been lowered by R152 billion, mainly driven by downward revisions to tax revenue projections. Non-tax revenue estimates for the next two years have also been reduced by R24.4 billion due to lower mineral and petroleum royalties and departmental receipts. Payments to the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) are revised up,” the department said.
Treasury insisted that improved economic growth and further gains in tax administration are critical for improving tax revenues.
“The sharp contraction in commodity prices now under way suggests that the windfall tax receipts that South Africa enjoyed in recent years have come to an end. Under-collections in corporate income tax receipts relative to 2023 Budget estimates flow through to the outer years. Stronger VAT refund payments over the medium term partly reflect higher renewable energy investments and responses to structural constraints in logistics and fuel refinery capacity.
“The outlook for most major tax bases has also been revised lower relative to the 2023 Budget. Personal income tax collections are marginally better than expected due to near-term gains; however, medium-term prospects for employment growth remain muted.
“Although South Africa’s tax-to-GDP ratio remains relatively resilient, stronger economic growth and further gains in tax administration are needed to improve tax revenues over the medium to long term,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 11/01/2023 - 14:05
624 views