Gang Raped Deaf Woman Waits More Than Eight Months For Court To Appoint A Sign Language Interpreter
The trial of four men accused of raping the 45-year-old woman has been postponed several times because of this
South Africa
UNIQ celebrates 10th store and first summer range
UNIQ celebrates 10th store and first summer range The Shoprite Group has opened its 10th UNIQ store in Rosebank Mall, just in time to launch the clothing brand’s inaugural Spring/Summer collection. Offering quality clothing for the whole family, UNIQ focusses on simplicity, comfort, superior textiles and value. The new collection is a fresh take on …
Ride into History: Uber celebrates Heritage with discounted rides to South Africa’s iconic sites and museums.
As South Africa gears up for the much-anticipated Heritage Day, Uber is delighted to announce a special mobility activation that will allow South Africans and international visitors to connect with the country’s rich cultural heritage. From September 23rd to 30th, users will be able to enjoy discounted rides to some of the most iconic Heritage …
Defence announces loss of three South African (SA) Navy submariners off Kommetjie
It is with deep sadness that the SANDF announces the tragic loss of three SA Navy submariners off Kommetjie on 20 September on board the SAS MANTHATISI. The families of the diseased members have been notified and military Chaplains and Social Workers are offering support to the family.
The names of the submariners who died are: Lieutenant Commander Gillian Elizabeth Hector (Executive Officer), Master Warrant Officer William Masela Mathipa (Coxswain) and Warrant Officer Class One Mmokwapa Lucas Mojela (Coxswain under training).
The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Thandi Modise, Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Thabang Makwetla, Chief of the South African National Defence Force, General Rudzani Maphwanya, the Chief of the South African Navy, Vice Admiral Monde Lobese and Flag Officer Fleet, Rear Admiral Musawenkosi Nkomonde have extended their deepest condolences to the bereaved families, friends, and colleagues of the submariners who tragically lost their lives.
The bereaved families have requested privacy during this difficult time, and we ask the media and the public to respect their wishes.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Defence, Republic of South Africa.
Repo rate remains unchanged
Repo rate remains unchanged
Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago has announced that the repo rate will remain unchanged at 8.25%.
Kganyago made the announcement in Pretoria on Thursday after a meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC).
He said South Africa’s load shedding has increased and prices for commodity exports continue to weaken. In the near term, stronger El Niño conditions threaten the agricultural outlook, while global climatic events present additional risks.
“Energy and logistical constraints remain binding on the growth outlook, limiting economic activity and increasing costs,” said the Governor.
The GDP growth forecast for 2024 and 2025 is unchanged from the previous meeting, at 1.0% and 1.1%, respectively.
Kganyago said oil prices have increased in recent months and commodity export prices have moderated further.
“South Africa’s external financing needs will increase as the current account deficit expands from a forecasted 2.0% of GDP this year (from 1.9%), to 3.0% of GDP in 2024 and to 3.4% of GDP in 2025.
“Sharply lower tax revenue, higher employee compensation and ongoing financing needs of state-owned enterprises are expected to keep the long-term cost of borrowing elevated. Despite the forecasted moderation of inflation, long-term bond yields currently trade around 12.6%.
“The rand has weakened over the past year, depreciating by about 10% year to date against the US dollar, and is showing high volatility in response to risk-on and risk-off episodes. The implied starting point for the rand forecast is R18.45 to the US dollar, compared with R18.13 at the time of the previous meeting.”
The trajectory of South Africa’s headline inflation rate has been shaped primarily by fuel and food prices.
“Risks to the inflation outlook are assessed to the upside. At a global level, headline inflation continues to moderate, but food price inflation remains high, oil markets have tightened significantly, and core inflation looks sticky.
“Despite recent easing in some food price components, domestic food price inflation was still elevated at 8% in August and the risk of drier weather conditions in coming months has increased.
“We expect food price inflation to moderate further in the near term, but with high risk that it picks up later in 2024. In the absence of sustained increases in energy supply, electricity prices continue to present clear inflation risks.
“Load-shedding and logistics constraints may also have broader effects on the cost of doing business and the cost of living. Given uncertain fuel and food price inflation, considerable risk still attaches to the forecast for average salaries.”
He said sticky inflation implies that average interest rates in major economies will remain high. As a result, tighter global financial conditions are likely to persist, raising the risk profile of economies needing foreign capital.
“Against this backdrop, the MPC decided to keep the repurchase rate at its current level of 8.25% per year,” he announced.
Three members of the committee preferred to keep rates on hold and two preferred an increase of 25 basis points.
“At the current repurchase rate level, policy is restrictive, consistent with the inflation outlook and elevated inflation expectations. Serious upside risks to the inflation outlook remain,” said Kganyago.
He added that decisions will continue to be data dependent and sensitive to the balance of risks to the outlook.
The next statement of the Monetary Policy Committee will be released on 23 November 2023. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Thu, 09/21/2023 - 15:39
169 views
Uniting the nation in #theheartofcenturion
As September ushers in the fresh bloom of spring, the thrill of Springboks’ games, and the rich tapestry of our nation’s heritage, Centurion Mall warmly invites the community to join in the celebrations, showcasing the diverse colours of our rainbow nation. South Africa’s cultural landscape is a rich mosaic. This Heritage Day, Centurion Mall will …
President mourns passing of South African Navy submariners
As Commander-in-Chief of South Africa's Armed Forces, President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the loss of three crew members of the South African Navy submarine SAS Manthatisi who perished at sea off Kommetjie near Cape Town on Wednesday, 20 September 2023.
The SAS Manthatisi was en route to Cape Town while conducting a vertical transfer (VERTREP) by means of a SA Air Force Maritime Lynx helicopter, when high waves swept seven crew members out to sea.
Rough seas affected the rescue and recovery operation in which the National Sea Rescue Institute assisted.
While all crew members were recovered, three fatalities were recorded. Other crew members, including a senior officer in a critical condition, are being treated in hospital.
President Ramaphosa said: “This is a sad loss for our nation and for our brave armed forces in particular who routinely face danger in order so that all of us can be safe and secure.
“My thoughts and prayers go out to the families, friends, commanders and colleagues of the crew members we have lost.
“We wish the injured personnel a full recovery from the physical and psychological trauma they experienced during this tragedy.
“We also appreciate the efforts of all role players who, at great risk to themselves, undertook the rescue and recovery operation.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.
President Ramaphosa concludes participation in UNGA78
President Ramaphosa concludes participation in UNGA78
President Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded his working visit to the United States of America, where he led South Africa’s participation in the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA78) in New York.
President Ramaphosa was accompanied by a delegation of Ministers, including the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel; Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, Barbara Creecy; Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla; Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, and Minister in The Presidency for Planning Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa.
The President delivered South Africa’s National Statement on Tuesday under the theme: 'Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development towards peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability for all'.
On Wednesday, President Ramaphosa participated in the Financing for Development Summit.
The President joined United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and the President of the UN General Assembly, Ambassador Dennis Francis, in advocating for the strengthening and reform of the international financial architecture.
President Ramaphosa said developing countries must participate equally and meaningfully in the decision-making process of the international economic world order.
"Four decades since the right to development was established by the United Nations as a human right, the failure to act on commitments to support development is deepening the divide between the global north and south," said President Ramaphosa.
The President also addressed the Climate Change Summit, hosted by the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, where he joined the call by African leaders for action in the implementation of the recently adopted Nairobi Declaration on Climate Change and Call to Action.
The declaration recognises that decarbonising the global economy is an opportunity to contribute to equality and shared prosperity.
President Ramaphosa said that financing for climate action should respect the right of all countries to pursue their own development pathways while taking into account their specific national circumstances.
“As South Africa implements its ambitious Nationally Determined Contribution, which is aligned to the Paris Agreement temperature goals, we see new opportunities for green growth and development.
“With abundant solar and wind resources, with significant reserves of critical minerals, South Africa is positioning itself to be a leader in renewable energy, green hydrogen, and sustainable industrialisation,” the President said.
The President described South Africa's participation at the UNGA78 as progressive, as it continued to advocate for the reform of the United Nations Security Council and reiterated South Africa’s support for the United Nations Secretary-General's ambition of U$ 500 billion a year to meet the UN-driven global sustainable development goals.
On the sidelines of UNGA78, President Ramaphosa held several bilateral meetings aimed at strengthening strategic political, diplomatic and trade ties.
These included discussions with the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu; Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy; President Abdelmadjid Tebboune of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria; President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Türkiye, and President Emmerson Mnagangwa of the Republic of Zimbabwe.
Another highlight of the President’s working visit to the United States was the joint announcement by the South African and United States governments of South Africa’s hosting of the 20th US-Sub-Saharan Africa Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum, (AGOA Forum) in Johannesburg from 2 - 4 November 2023.
President Ramaphosa welcomed this development as an expression of South Africa's intention to remain part, beyond 2025, of the trade partnership enabled by the United States’ Africa Growth and Opportunity Act.
This trade relationship carries mutual benefit for South Africa and the United States, as part of the broader cordial and strong relations between the two countries.
In his assessment of UNGA78, President Ramaphosa said: “The United Nations General Assembly is an important and strategic platform for South Africa, where we are able to interact at a high level multilaterally and bilaterally.
“We have engaged in meaningful discussions that will contribute to the development of our country and our continent. I go home with my spirits lifted and enthused that the challenges we face will be resolved as we continue working with our social partners and business at home, and our trade and diplomatic partners globally." – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 09/21/2023 - 11:47
212 views
Ramaphosa concludes participation in 78th United Nations General Assembly
President Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded a working visit to the United States of America, where he led South Africa's participation in the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA78) in New York.
The President delivered South Africa's National Statement on Tuesday, 19 September 2023, under the theme “Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development towards peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability for all”.
On Wednesday, 20 September 2023, President Ramaphosa participated in the Financing for Development Summit.
The President joined United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and the President of the UN General Assembly, Ambassador Dennis Francis, in advocating for the strengthening and reform of the international financial architecture.
President Ramaphosa said developing countries must participate equally and meaningfully in the decision-making process of the international economic world order.
"Four decades since the right to development was established by the United Nations as a human right, the failure to act on commitments to support development is deepening the divide between the global north and south," said President Ramaphosa.
The President also addressed the Climate Change Summit, hosted by the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, where the President joined the call by African leaders for action in the implementation of the recently adopted Nairobi Declaration on Climate Change and Call to Action.
The declaration recognises that decarbonising the global economy is an opportunity to contribute to equality and shared prosperity.
President Ramaphosa said: “Financing for climate action should respect the right of all countries to pursue their own development pathways while taking into account their specific national circumstances.
“As South Africa implements its ambitious Nationally Determined Contribution, which is aligned to the Paris Agreement temperature goals, we see new opportunities for green growth and development.
“With abundant solar and wind resources, with significant reserves of critical minerals, South Africa is positioning itself to be a leader in renewable energy, green hydrogen, and sustainable industrialisation.”
The President described South Africa's participation at the UNGA78 as progressive as it continued to advocate for the reform of the United Nations Security Council and reiterated South Africa's support for the United Nations Secretary-General's ambition of U$ 500 billion a year to meet the UN-driven global sustainable development goals.
On the sidelines of UNGA78, President Cyril Ramaphosa held several bilateral meetings aimed at strengthening strategic political, diplomatic, and trade ties.
These included discussions with the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu; Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy; President Abdelmadjid Tebboune of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria; President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Türkiye, and President Emmerson Mnagangwa of the Republic of Zimbabwe.
Another highlight of the President's Working Visit to the United States was the joint announcement by the South African and United States governments of South Africa's hosting of the 20th US-Sub-Saharan Africa Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum, (AGOA Forum) in Johannesburg from 2 to 4 November 2023.
President Ramaphosa welcomed this development as an expression of South Africa's intention to remain part, beyond 2025, of the trade partnership enabled by the United States' Africa Growth and Opportunity Act.
This trade relationship carries mutual benefit for South Africa and the United States, as part of the broader cordial and strong relations between the two countries.
In his assessment of UNGA78 President Ramaphosa said: “The United Nations General Assembly is an important and strategic platform for South Africa, where we are able to interact at a high level multilaterally and bilaterally.
“We have engaged in meaningful discussions that will contribute to the development of our country and our continent. I go home with my spirits lifted and enthused that the challenges we face will be resolved as we continue working with our social partners and business at home, and our trade and diplomatic partners globally."
The President was accompanied by a delegation of Ministers that included the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel; Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, Barbara Creecy; Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla; Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni; and Minister in The Presidency for Planning Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.
Former MTN Top Executive’s Unrelenting Quest for Justice Six-Years After
Telecommunications giant MTN is currently embroiled in a protracted legal battle with a former top executive Mr. Ahmad Farroukh over the non-payment of his severance package. The burgeoning legal battle with MTN, which still lingers more than six-years after he had exited the company is seen as a typical case that highlights the challenges some …
The Unsung Heroes of Sleep: Mattress Protectors, Pillow Protectors, and Pillow Cases
Introduction When it comes to achieving a good night’s sleep, we often focus on the mattress and pillows themselves, forgetting about the unsung heroes of our sleep sanctuary: mattress protectors, pillow protectors, and pillowcases. These seemingly simple bedding accessories play a vital role in ensuring not only the longevity of your mattress and pillows but …
Africa among regions with highest number of industrial systems under attack in the first half of 2023
Malicious objects of all types were detected and blocked on 34% of Industrial Control System (ICS) computers in the first half of 2023, according to the ICS CERT landscape report (https://apo-opa.info/3LwG719) by Kaspersky (www.Kaspersky.co.za). In Africa over this period attacks were detected on 40,3% of ICS computers, placing it in first place among the other regions. The top industries under attack were energy (45,9%), engineering & integration (44%) and building automation (40%). All these attacks were blocked after detection.
ICS computers are used in oil & gas, energy, automotive manufacturing, building automation infrastructures and other spheres to perform a range of operational technology (OT) functions – from the workstations of engineers and operators to supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) servers and Human Machine Interface (HMI). Cyberattacks on industrial computers are considered to be extremely dangerous as they may cause material losses and production downtime for the controlled production line and even the facility as a whole. Moreover, industrial enterprises put out of service can seriously undermine a region's social welfare, ecology and macroeconomics.
An analysis of the most significant and targeted threats detected on ICS computers in selected countries of Africa in the first half of 2023 shows that the threat landscape can vary between countries and between industries due to the differences in the security maturity of different countries/industries and the current focus of threat actors. In South Africa in the first half of 2023 malware was detected and blocked on 29,1% of ICS computers, in Nigeria on 32,6%, in Kenya on 34,5% of machines.
There are different types of cyberthreats that OT-related computers face – malicious scripts, spy trojans, worms, ransomware, and others. In the first half of 2023 Africa had the highest percentage of ICS computers on which spyware was blocked (9,8%). The Middle East and Southeast Asia had similarly high percentages (8,3% and 8,1%). The global average stands at 6,1%.
Africa was also the region with the highest percentage of ICS computers (14,8%) on which attacks from denylisted Internet resources were blocked (these are web resources associated with distributing or controlling malware). The global average is 11,3%.
Viruses and worms spread across ICS networks by means of removable media, shared folders, infected files, such as backups, and network attacks on outdated software. The percentage of ICS computers on which worms were detected was very high in Africa (7% vs. 2,3% global average), making this region the leader by percentage of ICS computers on which threats were detected after removable devices were connected.
“Africa's industrial landscape is diverse, ranging from large-scale mining operations to small-scale agriculture. This means that ICS cybersecurity solutions need to be adaptable to various sectors and technologies. In some regions, legacy ICS systems that lack modern security features are still in use. These systems are often more vulnerable to cyberthreats and require significant upgrades. Lastly, some critical infrastructure in Africa is located in remote areas with limited connectivity, which can make it difficult to monitor and secure ICS assets effectively,” comments Evgeny Goncharov, Head of Kaspersky ICS CERT. “By understanding these risks, organisations can make informed decisions, allocate resources wisely, and efficiently fortify their defenses. In doing so, they not only protect their bottom line but also contribute to a safer and more secure digital ecosystem for all.”
Read more about the ICS threat landscape in the first half of 2023 on the Kaspersky ICS CERT website (https://apo-opa.info/3LwG719).
To keep your OT computers protected from various threats, Kaspersky experts recommend:
- Conducting regular security assessments of OT systems to identify and eliminate possible cyber security issues.
- Establishing continuous vulnerability assessment and triage as a basement for effective vulnerability management process. Dedicated solutions like Kaspersky Industrial CyberSecurity (https://apo-opa.info/451Yguw) may become an efficient assistant and a source of unique actionable information, not fully available in public.
- Performing timely updates for the key components of the enterprise's OT network; applying security fixes and patches or implementing compensating measures as soon as it is technically possible is crucial for preventing a major incident that might cost millions due to the interruption of the production process.
- Using EDR solutions such as Kaspersky Endpoint Detection and Response (https://apo-opa.info/3OsQQvs) for timely detection of sophisticated threats, investigation, and effective remediation of incidents.
- Improving the response to new and advanced malicious techniques by building and strengthening your teams' incident prevention, detection, and response skills. Dedicated OT security trainings for IT security teams and OT personnel is one of the key measures helping to achieve this.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kaspersky.
For further information please contact:
Nicole Allman | INK&Co.
nicole@inkandco.co.za
Social Media:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.info/3M3uy0L
Twitter: https://apo-opa.info/3OaLeGw
YouTube: https://apo-opa.info/41wO7V6
Instagram: https://apo-opa.info/42BZnRq
Blog: https://apo-opa.info/42Apbxn
About Kaspersky:
Kaspersky is a global cybersecurity and digital privacy company founded in 1997. Kaspersky's deep threat intelligence and security expertise is constantly transforming into innovative solutions and services to protect businesses, critical infrastructure, governments and consumers around the globe. The company's comprehensive security portfolio includes leading endpoint protection, specialized security products and services, as well as Cyber Immune solutions to fight sophisticated and evolving digital threats. Over 400 million users are protected by Kaspersky technologies and we help over 220,000 corporate clients protect what matters most to them. Learn more at www.Kaspersky.co.za.
QACC AFRICA to launch in South Africa, appoints Khangelani Dziba as Country Committee President
RAPT Creative Group Division Head of PR & Influencer Partnerships, Khangelani Dziba (they/them), has been appointed as the Country Committee President for the Queer and Allied Chamber of Commerce Africa (QACC Africa). QACC Africa facilitates a diverse and inclusive economy in Africa by establishing a dynamic and thriving commercial ecosystem for queer entrepreneurs, queer-owned/operated businesses …
Protest at Parliament goes ahead after last-minute deal with City of Cape Town
Activist organisation #UniteBehind wants MPs to fire former PRASA chair Sfiso Buthelezi
Loadshedding Solutions in South Africa
Loadshedding has become a significant concern for many South Africans. The frequent power outages not only disrupt daily life but also impact businesses and the economy. However, with the rise of innovative loadshedding solutions, there’s hope for a brighter and more consistent future. Understanding Loadshedding Loadshedding is a measure taken to prevent the power …
NSFAS makes headway in direct payment solution
NSFAS makes headway in direct payment solution
Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, says the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has made strides in the implementation of its Student-Centred Model.
The Student-Centred Model is aimed at the implementation of the NSFAS direct payment solution, known as the NSFAS Bank Account, and the development of the NSFAS Student Accommodation Portal.
Briefing media on developments at NSFAS on Tuesday, Nzimande said the Student-Centre Model is premised on an approach that places the needs of students at the heart of the scheme’s operations. It also aims to streamline all processes that affect the disbursement of funds for tuition, transport, food and accommodation.
The Minister said 509 220 claims, with a total of R40 billion, have been received from university students, and out of this, an amount of R29.6 billion has already been paid to 491 457.
“There are 23 389 students with exceptions that we are currently funding. These exceptions occur when NSFAS cannot confirm the funding pathway or funding rules are not complied with, as per submitted registration records.
“The biggest exceptions relate to institutions claiming incorrectly by including meals yet they are catered by institution. This means it is double dipping, which must be attended to,” Nzimande said.
NSFAS has also received 250 548 claims from Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college students to the value of R6.8 billion, with R4.8 billion already being paid to 209 352 students.
Nzimande reiterated his call to all beneficiaries, who have not been on-boarded (registered) or converted onto the new payment system, to urgently register in order to enable NSFAS to pay their allowances without any further delay.
According to data, 90% to 99% universities’ students have been onboarded. This exclude the University of South Africa (UNISA), which stands at 67%, and the University of Fort Hare at 56%.
Nzimande said the NSFAS institutional support teams will extensively focus their attention in all institutions whose percentages are low so that they improve on their onboarding processes.
“The team will continue to hold bi-weekly meetings with the institutions’ finance offices and the direct payment partners so that institutions have a platform to raise the challenges and areas of clarity, where both NSFAS and the partners are present.
“In relation to our TVET colleges, the process of onboarding continues, as they have multiple academic terms,” Nzimande said.
Bank charges
Regarding bank charges to student accounts, Nzimande said he has directed NSFAS to relook the entire bank charges regime to find possible measures to further reduce bank charges for the beneficiaries.
“I have been briefed that NSFAS negotiated for a R12 monthly bank charge, which excludes money transfer costs to other banks. I will await the NSFAS board final determination in this regard.
“I have been assured by the NSFAS board that reports that NSFAS disbursed incorrect amounts to beneficiaries are misleading and untrue. However, should it happen that such instances may have occurred, I urge the affected students to immediately report these to NSFAS,” Nzimande said.
Warning to students inappropriately benefitting from NSFAS
Meanwhile, Nzimande has issued a stern warning to students, who are inappropriately benefitting from the scheme.
He said the appropriate criminal and legal action must be taken against anyone found defrauding the system. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 09/20/2023 - 09:46
526 views
South Africa continues to advocate for dialogue
South Africa continues to advocate for dialogue
President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged the international community to do everything within its means to enable meaningful dialogue between warring parties, while refraining from actions that fuel the conflict.
The President was delivering a statement to the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA78) at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
“Democratic South Africa has consistently advocated for dialogue, negotiation and diplomacy to prevent and end conflict, and achieve lasting peace.
“It is these principles that inform South Africa’s participation in the African Peace Initiative, which seeks a peaceful resolution of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. In this conflict, as in all conflicts, we have insisted that the UN Charter’s principle of respect for the territorial integrity of every country should be upheld,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa told the world leaders that SA’s participation in the African Peace Initiative is informed by a desire to see an end to the suffering of those most directly affected by the conflict and the millions on the continent and across the world who, as a result of the conflict, are now vulnerable to worsening hunger and deprivation.
“As the international community, we must do everything within our means to enable meaningful dialogue, just as we should refrain from any actions that fuel the conflict.
“As we confront other conflicts in several parts of the world, including on our continent Africa, we need to be investing in prevention and peacebuilding,” he said.
The President said South Africa supports the call by the UN Secretary-General in the New Agenda for Peace for Member States to provide more sustainable and predictable financing to peacebuilding efforts.
He called on the global community to be concerned by recent incidents of unconstitutional changes of government in some parts of Africa.
He emphasised that the global community needs to work alongside the African Union to support peace efforts in the eastern DRC, Libya, Sudan, Somalia, Mali, Central African Republic, South Sudan, northern Mozambique, the Great Lakes Region, the Sahel, Niger and the Horn of Africa.
The President highlighted that the African Union Peace and Security Council has declared that it stands ready to deepen its cooperation with the UN Security Council to silence the guns on the African continent and to achieve peace, stability and development.
“We are called upon to remain true to the founding principles of the United Nations, by recognising the inalienable right of the people of Western Sahara to self-determination, in line with the relevant UN General Assembly resolutions.
“We must work for peace in the Middle East. For as long as the land of the Palestinians remains occupied, for as long as their rights are ignored and their dignity denied, such peace will remain elusive,” he said.
President Ramaphosa said that the actions of the Government of Israel have imperilled the possibility of a viable two-State solution.
“The principles of the UN Charter on territorial integrity and on the prohibition on the annexation of land through the use of force must be applied in this situation,” he said.
President Ramaphosa said South Africa continues to call for the lifting of the economic embargo against Cuba, which has caused untold damage to that country’s economy and people.
He said sanctions against Zimbabwe should also be lifted as they are imposing great suffering on ordinary Zimbabweans.
“As many people around the world are confronted by hunger and want, the essential human qualities of cooperation and solidarity must be evident in the actions we take to bridge the divide between wealthy and poor.
“We must summon the necessary will and resolve to regain the momentum towards the achievement of the 2030 Agenda.
“This means that we must address the fundamental development challenges that have long characterised our unequal world,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 09/20/2023 - 09:59
502 views
Celebrating negroni week with a dash of Angostura
If ever there was a sophisticated cocktail that conjures up European piazzas and boulevards, it’s the negroni. Its ruby-hued, refreshingly bittersweet glow reflects haute couture rather than club tropicana. Not a Caribbean beach or a paper parasol in sight, the negroni should be simply garnished with a twist of orange peel to enhance the tantalisingly …
Stellantis Invests ZAR 3 Billion in South Africa, Establishing State-of-the-Art Automotive Plant in Coega
Stellantis (www.Stellantis.com) MEA COO Cherfan and SA Minister of Trade, Industry & Competition Patel shake hands on a new manufacturing plant in South Africa; Rapid progress has been made since the MOU signing in March 2023 with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic); this bold initiative reinforces Stellantis MEA Region's Dare Forward 2030 ambition to sell one million vehicles by 2030 with 70% regional production autonomy.
Stellantis has confirmed its intention to develop a greenfield manufacturing facility in Coega in South Africa with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic). Minister Ebrahim Patel, senior officials from the IDC and Mr. Samir Cherfan, Stellantis Middle East and Africa Chief Operating Officer met at the Parliament Buildings in Cape Town to agree on investment in the South African motor industry.
“It is a wonderful day for all South Africans when a global company of Stellantis' proportions decides to expand its manufacturing footprint in South Africa, to assemble completely knocked down units,” said Mr. Ebrahim Patel, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition. “South Africa currently has the capacity to produce close to 700 000 vehicles annually. This will add considerable additional capacity, just as we prepare to implement the African Continental Free Trade Area. The country remains a great investment destination and this commitment from Stellantis to invest in our local motor industry highlights the success of our manufacturing sector policy, its capability and potential. We look forward to welcoming Stellantis to South Africa and sharing in the detailed plan for employment and investment”.
“We are delighted with the speed at which we are progressing on this project, thanks to the commitment of Minister Patel and the great collaboration with IDC, CDC and dtic teams,” commented Samir Cherfan-Chief Operating Officer Stellantis Middle East and Africa. “This project reflects our focus and trust in South Africa as one of the most important markets in Africa & Middle East. It is also the execution of our Dare Forward 2030 Strategy to reach over 22% Market Share in the region by 2030 with 70% regional localization of our sales leading to over 1 million units produced. We believe in South Africa and we intend to develop industrially and commercially bringing value to our customers”.
The manufacturing plant will be built in the South African Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Coega situated near Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The greenfield manufacturing project is planned to complete by the end of 2025. The first launch planned early 2026 is a 1 T pick-up truck with volumes expected to reach up to 50,000 completely knocked down (CKD's) units annually including export, in line with the industry masterplan, known as the Automotive Production Development Program (APDP). The plant will be predisposed in terms of space and painting to go up to 90K units / year.
Direct employment to support the first capacity step is expected at 1000 jobs. Stellantis will be massively investing in over 500 000 hours in training and skills to develop and support the local teams to the level of global standards. We are targeting a localization rate over 30%.
“The Coega Development Corporation (CDC) is enthralled for Stellantis to have chosen the proposed site in Coega for their Southern African manufacturing operations. Joining other major manufacturers in the area makes the Coega region the primary automotive hub in the country. The investment in the plant, employment, training and skills transfer will certainly benefit the region tremendously. “This is a much needed and welcomed economic boost for the Eastern Cape Province with an anticipated economy wide impact on the province's GDP of R 664 million. Household income is anticipated to increase to R558.4 million within the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) and R577.4 million for the entire Province. Most importantly, an anticipated 1800 jobs will be created in the Metro and around 2 097 for the EC Province,” said Khwezi Tiya, CEO the CDC.
Stellantis continues to work closely with the IDC in developing a viable joint venture (JV) partnership that will be evaluated by appropriate credit committees. “Stellantis' success with similar manufacturing plants around the world is well-known and our planned JV with Stellantis to build another greenfield plant in South Africa is progressing well. The investment is in line with IDC's intent to drive investment that supports the development of the regional automobile value chain,” said Mr. TP Nchocho, CEO of the IDC.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Stellantis.
For more information, contact:
Tshepo RAMODIBE
+27 269 3106
TshepoR@idc.co.za
Deidre Du PLESSIS
+27 10 252 5000
deidre.duplessis@stellantis.com
communications@stellantis.com
www.Stellantis.com
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About Stellantis:
Stellantis N.V. (NYSE: STLA / Euronext Milan: STLAM / Euronext Paris: STLAP) is one of the world's leading automakers and a mobility provider. Its storied and iconic brands embody the passion of their visionary founders and today's customers in their innovative products and services, including Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Citroën, Dodge, DS Automobiles, Fiat, Jeep®, Lancia, Maserati, Opel, Peugeot, Ram, Vauxhall, Free2move and Leasys. Powered by our diversity, we lead the way the world moves – aspiring to become the greatest sustainable mobility tech company, not the biggest, while creating added value for all stakeholders as well as the communities in which it operates. For more information, visit www.Stellantis.com.
Tuskers Announce Division 1 Arrival In Style
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Suspects arrested for being in position of stolen railway tracks
Suspects arrested for being in position of stolen railway tracks
Three suspects were arrested on Tuesday on the N4 freeway in Middleburg after being found in possession of a truck transporting allegedly stolen railway track valued at about R3 million.
The suspects, aged between 41 and 51, are expected to appear at the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.
They are facing charges of being found with stolen items and for contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa.
Police are working with the Department of Home Affairs after it was discovered that the suspects are foreign nationals and two were found without valid documentation to be in South Africa.
Two of the suspects are Mozambican nationals while the third found with documentation is a Zimbabwean national.
“Police in Mpumalanga are working hard to address the challenge of damage to essential infrastructure as well as theft of valuable railway items. The Mpumalanga Provincial Anti-Gang Unit of the police was tasked with the responsibility of helping curb this challenge.
“As a result of the determination by the team, working in collaboration with members of the public and in this case Middleburg Highway Patrol members played a role as well which led to a breakthrough that was achieved,” said the office of the Provincial Commissioner in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela.
According to information, the railway track was stolen in Barberton in August 2023.
A case was opened and the investigation was handed over to the team, with the hope of arresting the perpetrators and recovering the reportedly stolen items.
After an investigation, investigators were able to gather valuable information and made follow ups which led to the trailing of the truck which was possibly transporting the suspected stolen railway track to a certain destination.
After being spotted and stopped, a search was carried out and the railway track was discovered inside the truck. The three men were then arrested.
The truck with its consignment and other items have been confiscated for further investigation.
The Provincial Commissioner has hailed the breakthrough.
"We are elated by this great achievement. We are adamant that the suspects may have been involved in other similar offences committed previously as our investigation team continues to probe.
“The damage to essential infrastructure is a thorn in the flesh but we are doing our best to address this, hence the arrest," said Lieutenant General Manamela – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 09/20/2023 - 14:47
142 views
Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) Announces Finalists for 2023 AWIEF Awards
The Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) (https://www.AWIEForum.org) is delighted to announce the finalists for its 2023 AWIEF Awards.
Launched in 2017, the prestigious annual AWIEF Awards is an initiative to recognise, honour, and celebrate women entrepreneurs and business owners in Africa across various industry sectors for their achievements and contribution to the continent's inclusive economic growth and social development.
An international and independent Panel of Judges selected the twenty-four (24) finalists across eight (8) categories. These outstanding women founders and business leaders operate in a diverse range of sectors and represent companies from fourteen (14) different African countries: Cameroon, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
The 2023 AWIEF Awards winners will be announced and celebrated at a special ceremony and gala dinner at the AWIEF2023 Conference and Awards, taking place on 9 and 10 November at the Kigali Convention Centre, Kigali, Rwanda.
AWIEF Founder and CEO, Irene Ochem, said: “Given the huge number and calibre of the nominations received this year, it is clear that female entrepreneurship and business leadership is thriving across Africa. It is our honour to recognise and celebrate the achievements and contributions of these women to the inclusive growth of their respective sectors, their countries and the continent's economy.”
A member of the 2023 AWIEF Awards Panel of Judges, John-Paul Iwuoha, Founder of Smallstarter Africa, said: "As a Judge, I was thoroughly impressed by the quality of applications in all the categories. It is great to see how AWIEF continues to attract innovative women across Africa who are creating enormous value for society."
The finalists for the 2023 AWIEF Awards are (listed in alphabetical order):
Young Entrepreneur Award
Salamba Diene, CEO, BIOSENE SARL, Senegal
Joyce Kamande, Co-founder & CEO, Safi Organics, Kenya
Jovia Kisakye, CEO, Sparkle Agro Brand, Uganda
Tech Entrepreneur Award
Norah Magero, Founder & CEO, Drop Access Limited, Kenya
Kathryn Malherbe, CEO, Med Sol AI Solutions, South Africa
Kidist Tesfaye, Founder & CEO, YeneHealth, Ethiopia
Agri Entrepreneur Award
Chinwendu Nweke, CEO, Bridge Merchant Enterprise, Nigeria
Forget Shareka, Founder, Chashi Foods, Zimbabwe
Nonopa Tenza, Founder & MD, Kevinot Farming, South Africa
Energy Entrepreneur Award
Linda Mabhena-Olagunju, Founder & CEO, DLO Energy Resources Group, South Africa
Ifeoma Malo, CEO, Clean Technology Hub, Nigeria
Margaret Yainkain Mansaray, Founder & CEO, Women in Energy Sierra Leone Limited, Sierra Leone
Creative Industry Award
Yasmina Belahsen, Founder, MayaDigital, Morocco
Gladys Chibanda, Founder & CEO, Krafted Ink, Zimbabwe
Ararat Tamirat, Founder & GM, Tuba By Ararat, Ethiopia
Social Entrepreneur Award
Damilola Aminat Adeyemi, Co-founder & CEO, D-Olivette Global Enterprise, Nigeria
Kayumba Chiwele, Founder & Principal Psychologist, MindAid Zambia, Zambia
Mundih Noelar Njohjam, Medical Doctor, Epilepsy Awareness, Aid and Research Association, Cameroon
Empowerment Award
Aya Chebbi, Founder & President, Nalafem Collective, Tunisia
Zulfat Mukarubega, Founder, University of Tourism, Technology and Business Studies, Rwanda
Catherine Wijnberg, Founder & CEO, Fetola, South Africa
Lifetime Achievement Award
Rina Gunter, Founding Partner, Gunter Attorneys, South Africa
Dalia Ibrahim, CEO, Nahdet Misr Publishing House, Egypt
Anke Weisheit, Co-founder & Chair, PHARMBIOTRAC, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Uganda
Tickets for the AWIEF2023 Conference and Awards are available online at: https://apo-opa.info/3JHKUem
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF).
For more information and media enquiries, email: info@awieforum.org
Science must be at the centre of water policy formulations
Science must be at the centre of water policy formulations
Policymakers in the water sector have been urged to put science at the centre of their policy formulations to ensure informed decisions are made that will propel the country to greater heights.
The appeal was made by Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, who was speaking at the opening of the 50th Congress of International Association of Hydrogeologists, currently underway in Cape Town.
The congress, taking place from 19 to 22 September 2023, brings together speakers from several institutions across the globe and groundwater experts who are engaging on alternative water sources, particularly surface water and underground water governance and charting a way forward on water security.
In his address, Mahlobo warned that a country that does not invest in science will perish and emphasised that South Africa needs to improve on this aspect.
“As scientists and engineers gathered here, you need to make your mark and direct future policy positions of the water sector, particularly the use of groundwater as an alternate measure that will ensure universal access.
“We need you to guide us and take us to task to come up with policies that will get us into finding lasting and sustainable solutions to the water challenges around the globe,” Mahlobo said.
Challenging the delegates, Mahlobo said the weeklong convergence should not be just a talk shop, but come up with solutions that will benefit generations to come.
Mahlobo reflected on South Africa’s progress in meeting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 6, which focuses on clean water and sanitation for all.
He said the country has attained a lot in redressing the dignity of people who were previously unserved, while acknowledging that a lot still needs to be done.
The country has achieved almost 90% of its target of ensuring access to water, and the Deputy Minister emphasised that access to water should have meaningful impact in terms of economic benefits to the country, food security, social and environmental benefits, among other things.
Mahlobo admitted that the country still has enormous challenges, including assurance to water supply which has declined due to a number of factors.
“Communities can go for days on end without water supply, and this is caused by our neglect of operation and maintenance of our infrastructure. Because we have not invested in operations and maintenance, we are experiencing a lot of water losses in our system which is between 30% to 45%.
“The other challenge is the lack of investment in our infrastructure that matches the population growth and migration from other countries and people moving from rural to urban areas,” he pointed out.
Work is underway to ensure more funds are sourced from the private sector and other private partners to build more infrastructure across the nine provinces.
In addition, the department is addressing the issue of skills shortages that has hindered the efficiency of the water sector to ensure that all systems function optimally, and communities have reliable and uninterrupted water supply.
The Deputy Minister called on the department, as a regulator of the sector, to bite more and take to task all the mining companies that are degrading the quality of groundwater.
The International Association of Hydrogeologists is a scientific and educational charitable organisation of more than 4 000 scientists, engineers, water managers and other professionals working in the fields of groundwater resource planning, management and protection. It was founded in 1956. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 09/20/2023 - 11:42
182 views
Holding those accountable for financial misconduct imperative for public trust
Holding those accountable for financial misconduct imperative for public trust
With South Africa’s public finances being under strain, Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has emphasised the importance of holding individuals and entities accountable for financial misconduct, as it is vital for public trust.
“Without swift and fitting consequences, we risk eroding public trust in our capacity to manage public funds effectively, with less and less funding available to deliver much-needed services to our people,” Godongwana said on Wednesday.
Virtually addressing the 3rd Public Finance Management Conference, the Minister said rigorous and independent audit practices play a pivotal role in unearthing corruption and financial mismanagement, providing invaluable insights and recommendations for the judicious utilisation of public funds.
“Our public finances are currently in a difficult position, one that is increasing in complexity and uncertainty. The short-term risks to the local and global economy that we predicted in the February Budget have now materialised.
“Government has collected much lower-than-expected tax revenue. At the same time, tighter financial conditions have made it difficult to borrow more and at affordable rates.
“Continued load shedding, the poor performance of our logistics sectors, and the lasting damage done by State capture to our institutions, have made the difficult fiscal situation even more challenging,” the Minister said.
He noted that these and other factors have put tremendous strain on the financial resources available to address the country’s most urgent service delivery priorities.
“Furthermore, ethical sourcing of goods and services through public procurement stands as an unassailable priority. Non-compliance with ethical standards in procurement can have far-reaching consequences, compromising the integrity of our financial processes,” Godongwana said.
He said being innovative, adaptive, agile and solutions-driven during these volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA) times is important.
“It is important to note that we have faced similar challenges in the past and managed to make the necessary policy decisions and trade-offs to navigate the storm.
“The path forward is not devoid of challenges; however, we are not powerless. With innovation, adaptability, and a resolute commitment to ethical financial management, we can surmount these obstacles and forge a luminous future for South Africa.
“We must leverage technology, collaborate across sectors, and put our citizens at the centre of our decisions. Together, we hold the power to rekindle public trust, to advance good governance, and to fortify our nation's public financial management,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 09/20/2023 - 11:43
153 views