South Africa

With July upon us, a wave of reverence and reflection sweeps across the globe to honour the strong spirit of the late President Nelson Mandela during the annual commemoration of Nelson Mandela Month. This special occasion, observed on July 18th, serves as a poignant reminder of Nelson Mandela's extraordinary contributions to fostering equality, compassion and human rights. It calls upon individuals, communities, organizations and businesses to dedicate their time, skills, and resources to make a positive impact on society, echoing his lifelong commitment to public service. By harnessing the power of unity, Nelson Mandela Month serves as a catalyst for transforming lives, embracing inclusivity and fostering connections that transcend boundaries.

Chairman of Black Impact Foundation (BIF) Clarence Seedorf was honored as one of the few Legacy Champions by Madiba in 2009 to carry on his legacy worldwide. So it's not a surprise that BIF has created a platform like the Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS) (www.GlobalBlackImpact.com) , a landmark event that promises to be a unique and transformative experience for individuals celebrating Black excellence and driving positive change. Therefore, commemorating Mandela Month is a natural action to keep promoting the values and objectives of his legacy. The Global Black Impact Summit, created by BIF and organised by Energy Capital & Power (www.EnergyCapitalPower.com), is scheduled to take place on November 30^th and December 01^st, 2023 – in Dubai offering a dynamic platform for networking, learning and collaboration, with a focus on uniting and connecting the Black community with the aim of strengthening inclusivity, equality, education and entrepreneurship.

The prevailing emphasis of Nelson Mandela Month centres around "67 Minutes for Madiba on Nelson Mandela Day," signifying the symbolic 67 years that Nelson Mandela dedicated to public service, persevering through adversity, and unwaveringly championing the cause of social justice, ultimately culminating in his historic tenure as the inaugural President of the newly birthed South Africa. This day captures the ideals that Nelson Mandela adopted throughout his life—forgiveness, reconciliation and the belief that each individual possesses the power to change the world for the better. By encouraging people to devote just a fraction of their time, 67 minutes, to acts of kindness, Mandela Day urges us to acknowledge our collective responsibility in effectuating meaningful change.

BIF, with its emphasis on uniting and celebrating the Black community, recognizes the impact of Mandela's legacy in inspiring and shining light on individuals worldwide to enhance inclusivity, equality, education and entrepreneurship within the overall community. As the spirit of Madiba is integral part of the Foundation, people can join BIF to unite under a shared purpose and amplify their efforts towards effectuating meaningful change and foster reconciliation and social justice.

By highlighting the shared values of Mandela's Legacy, BIF becomes an ideal platform for engaging in positive dialogues, forging partnerships, and formulating a proactive approach to support Black individuals globally.

One of the fundamental pillars of both GBIS and Mandela Month is education. Recognizing that education plays a pivotal role in unlocking opportunities, both initiatives place a strong emphasis on enhancing educational access and quality.

Acknowledging the profound impact of Mandela, we invite you to unite with us in amplifying Black voices by supporting the Black Impact Foundation and joining GBIS and other BIF initiatives.

To learn more about BIF, please visit www.BlackImpactFoundation.com.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded a successful visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo where together with President Félix Tshisekedi, co-chaired the Heads of State and Government segment of the 12th session of the DRC –South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC).

The BNC which was held today, 06 July 2023, at Palais de la Nation, renewed commitment by both countries to further enhance and nurture the existing bilateral trade and political relations.

The Presidential segment of the BNC was preceded by the Senior Official meeting on 01-03 July 2023 and the Ministerial Sectoral meeting on 04-05 July 2023.

The BNC was conducted through the agreed structure between the two counties, which provides for the establishment of four (04) Sectoral Committees: Political and Governance Sectoral Commission; Defence and Security Sectoral Commission; Economy, Finance and Infrastructure Sectoral Commission and Social and Humanitarian Sectoral Commission.

To this effect, the leaders have acknowledged the existence of thirty-eight (38) Agreements and Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and welcomed the 81 decisions taken during the Ministerial session of the BNC. President Ramaphosa and his Congolese counterpart directed the relevant Ministers to conclude the review of these legal instruments by the end of October 2023 and accelerate the implementation of all agreements. 

These legal instruments cover a wide range of areas including, amongst others, Agriculture, Defence, Trade and Investment, Health, Police, Energy, Public Service and Administration, Cooperative Governance, Transport, Diplomatic Cooperation, Humanitarian Support and Immigration. 

The Heads of State and Government also discussed issues of mutual interest and appraised each other on economic, political, and security situations in the Region, particularly in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and the outcome of the Quadripartite Summit held on 27 June 2023 in Luanda under the auspices of the African Union.

The leaders also reflected on other global issues of mutual interest where're they iterated their common view that the Russia- Ukraine war requires dialogue and negotiation between the parties, as does the devastating conflict in Sudan. The two Presidents called on the parties in both countries to cease hostilities permanently and to give effect to the AU and UN objectives of silencing guns in pursuit of peace and security across the globe.

The leaders also participated in the Business Forum held on the margins of the BNC session, which explored opportunities for enhanced trade and possible trade and investment between the two counties with a particular focus on four key sectors of Agriculture & Agro-processing, Energy & Infrastructure, Health & Pharmaceuticals and Mining.

On economic cooperation, the Heads of State and Government directed the respective Ministers of Trade to resolve identified impediments with a view to increasing trade and investment between the two countries.

In this regard, the Heads of State and Government noted the strategic importance of the Grand INGA Hydropower Project between South Africa and the DRC to jointly develop the Project with the potential to produce more than 40 000 Mega Watts (MW) of hydropower from the Congo River.

On immigration, the leaders agreed that further consultations will be necessary to finalise all relevant modalities that will result in a mutually favourable visa regime.  

President Ramaphosa has extended an invitation to President Tshisekedi to attend the 13th Session of the BNC in South Africa on a date to be agreed through diplomatic channels.

The President was supported by Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation; State Security; Defence and Military Veterans; Trade, Industry and Competition; Police; Mineral Resources and Energy; Transport; Home Affairs and Social Development.

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

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Deputy President Paul Mashatile visited the Ehlanzeni District in Mpumalanga on July 4, 2023, to conduct a Land Reform Outreach.

The Deputy President was accompanied by Ms Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane, Premier of Mpumalanga Province; Mr. Sihle Zikalala, Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI); Mr. Mcebisi Skwatsha, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD); Ms Paulina Shiba, Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs; Mr. Mandla Ndhlovu, MEC for DPWI; Mr. Mandla Msibi, MEC for COGTA; Ms Sasekani Manzini ,MEC for Health; Mr Bonakele Majuba, MEC for Education; Ms Lindiwe Ntshalintshali, MEC for Social Development; Ms Thandi Shongwe, MEC for Culture, Sport, and Recreation; Ms Mpumi Hlophe, MEC for Finance; Mr. Vusi Shongwe, MEC for Community Safety and Liaison; Inkosi M Shongwe Chief of the Matsamo Traditional Council; Inkosi Yende Deputy Chairperson of House of Traditional Leaders and Khoi-San Leaders; Cllr J Sidell Executive Mayor of Ehlanzeni District Municipality; Cllr P Magagula Executive Mayor of Nkomazi Local Municipality; and Mr. M Mampuru Director- General of Mpumalanga Province.

The Deputy President visit three farms in the Ehlanzeni District, including the Laughing Waterfall Farm and Projects, Tomahawk Farm and Automated Packhouse, Nala Farm, and Hydro and Electric Pump Station.

While at the first farm, which falls under the Matsamo Communal Property Association (CPA), there was a showcase of Government's success in its response to accelerating the country's land reform programme. 

The CPA has, so far, been supported by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development with a grant amounting to R33 508 660 to maintain and increase production.

The second stop was Tomahawk Farm. This farm is Joint Venture between the Matsamo CPA and its strategic partner (Tomahawk), and it produces commodities for a variety of markets. 

The Deputy President advanced to view the Nala Farm initiative, which also operates as a Joint Venture to produce sugarcane and other commodities.

The last farm visit was to the Hydro and Electric Pump Station, which generates electricity for the majority of Matsamo CPA farm operations. 

The final phase of the program included interaction with Matsamo-area farmers. During this engagement, farmers had an opportunity to outline some of the challenges and achievements that they have encountered while running the CPAs and Joint Ventures.

Farmers indicated the need for the Government's assistance in terms of complying with regulations, inability to service debts, damaged roads and electricity supply.

Outlining successes, farmers highlighted Government's supply of five bags of fertilizer per hectare, 193 people being permanently employed through CPA, 39 bursaries awarded to beneficiaries, renovation of offices and provision of irrigation systems.

In his response to issues raised by farmers, the Deputy President, quoting the Freedom Charter, said “The state shall help the peasants with implements, seed, tractors, and dams to save the soil and assist the tillers”. 

The Deputy President further emphasised the importance of the Provincial Government to continue providing the necessary assistance to claimants so that they are well-equipped to run successful farms.

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

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In respect of an ongoing court application which was launched back in 2018, wherein the Minister of Water and Sanitation is cited as a Respondent, the High Court of South Africa (Gauteng Division, Johannesburg) has, as per the agreement between the parties, ordered that the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Mr Senzo Mchunu, to file an affidavit outlining all the measures taken to date by the Minister in respect of the Minister's Vaal River Intervention in terms of Section 63 of the Water Services Act, 1997. The agreement was made an order of court and the notice thereof was given on the 26th of June 2023.

The main court application, which was filed by Save The Vaal Environment, a Non-Governmental Organisation, concerns “the discharge of raw or inadequately treated sewerage by Emfuleni Local Municipality from its wastewater care and management system into the Rietspruit River and/or the Klip River and/or the Vaal River and/or the Vaal River Catchment Area”. The matter has not been finally ruled on by the court.

The Section 63 Vaal Intervention, one of the Ministry's priority projects in Gauteng, includes the upgrading of water infrastructure, refurbishment, operations and maintenance, sustainability, water conservation, water demand management, and advocacy within the Vaal area. This is meant to deal with urgent matters relating to security of supply and more urgently, matters relating to the pollution of the Vaal River, and enhancement of capacity for the embattled Emfuleni Local Municipality.

Rand Water, as the Implementing Agent, was formally appointed on the 5th of October 2021. Minister Mchunu will be filing a detailed affidavit, containing amongst others, progress updates on the various elements of the Intervention.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Water and Sanitation, Republic of South Africa.

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UNCTAD's World Investment Report 2023 published on 5 July shows that foreign direct investment (FDI) flows to Africa declined to $45 billion in 2022 from the record $80 billion set in 2021. They accounted for 3.5% of global FDI.

The number of greenfield project announcements rose by 39% to 766. Six of the top 15 greenfield investment megaprojects (those worth more than $10 billion) announced in 2022 were in Africa.

In North Africa, Egypt saw FDI more than double to $11 billion as a result of increased cross-border merger and acquisition (M&A) sales.

Announced greenfield projects more than doubled in number, to 161. International project finance deals rose in value by two thirds, to $24 billion. Flows to Morocco decreased slightly, by 6%, to $2.1 billion.

In West Africa, Nigeria saw FDI flows turn negative to -$187 million as a result of equity divestments. Announced greenfield projects, however, rose by 24% to $2 billion. Flows to Senegal remained flat at $2.6 billion. FDI flows to Ghana fell by 39% to $1.5 billion.

In East Africa, flows to Ethiopia decreased by 14% to $3.7 billion; the country remained the second largest FDI recipient on the continent. FDI to Uganda grew by 39% to $1.5 billion on investment in extractive industries. FDI to Tanzania increased by 8% to $1.1 billion.

In Central Africa, FDI in the Democratic Republic of the Congo remained flat at $1.8 billion, with investment sustained by flows to offshore oil fields and mining.

In Southern Africa, flows returned to prior levels after the anomalous peak in 2021 caused by a large corporate reconfiguration in South Africa. FDI in South Africa was $9 billion – well below the 2021 level but double the average of the last decade. Cross-border M&A sales in the country reached $4.8 billion from $280 million in 2021. In Zambia, after two years of negative values, FDI rose to $116 million.

Four regional economic groupings see growth

Over the past five years, FDI inflows have risen in four of the regional economic groupings on the continent.

FDI in the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa grew by 14% to $22 billion. Flows rose also in the Southern African Development Community (quadrupling, to $10 billion), the West African Economic and Monetary Union (doubling, to $5.2 billion) and the East African Community (up 9%, to $3.8 billion).

Intraregional investment remained relatively small, despite an increase over the past five years. In 2022, intraregional greenfield project announcements represented 15% of all projects in Africa (2% in terms of value), as compared with 13% (2% in value) in 2017.

However, looking at announced projects invested in by only African multinational enterprises, three quarters of their value remained on the continent.

In 2022, the biggest increase in announced greenfield projects was in energy and gas supply (to $120 billion from $24 billion in 2021). Project values in construction and extractive industries also rose, to $24 billion and $21 billion, respectively. The information and communication sector registered the highest number of projects.

International project finance deals targeting Africa showed a decline of 47% in value ($74 billion, down from $140 billion in 2021) but a 15% increase in project numbers, to 157.

European investors remain, by far, the largest holders of FDI stock in Africa, led by the United Kingdom ($60 billion), France ($54 billion) and the Netherlands ($54 billion).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

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APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) reports non-payment by Phindile Nxumalo (https://www.linkedin.com/in/phindile-nxumalo-5a41438/) , a Public Relations practitioner based in South Africa, for services rendered in December 2021. Despite numerous attemps to accomodate and provide solutions to Mrs. Nxumalo, she has not settled her due as of time of publication.

APO Group recommend cautions when dealing with Mrs. Nxumalo. 

The commercial activity of APO Group remains unaffected by this announcement.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

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In line with its participation in the second edition of the World Food Festival (WFF) organized by the Korean Cultural Centre (KCC) in South Africa from 26 to 30 June 2023, the Philippine Embassy in Pretoria vigorously promoted Filipino cuisine to the South African audience.

During the opening ceremony on 26 June 2023, Philippine Ambassador Noralyn Jubaira Baja gave a short briefing on Filipino cuisine, which she described as unique, diverse and complex in terms of flavor profile, as a result of the Filipino people's appropriation of foreign influences from colonization, globalization and migration in their indigenous cooking processes and culinary practices. She also highlighted that eating is always a social event for Filipinos.

Philippine cuisine took center stage during the food exhibitions on 26 and 27 June 2023. Distinguished guests from the government, the business sector, the arts and creative community of South Africa, as well as the general public sampled classic Filipino dishes such as okoy (shrimp fritters), ensaymada (Filipino brioche), pansit (stir-fried noodles) and puto (steamed rice cakes).

Local guests found the featured Filipino dishes really tasty and refreshingly different from other Asian dishes.

As part of its efforts to promote the Philippine brand, the Embassy also gave away samples of the ube (purple yam) flavor of Oozies which is locally manufactured in South Africa by Liwayway Food Corporation, the Philippine company behind the iconic snack food line Oishi.

On 29 June 2023, the Embassy hosted a cooking demonstration of turon (banana roll), considered as the national snack food in the Philippines, with the help of Ms. Jeanelyn “Jen” Barreto, a Filipino cooking enthusiast and entrepreneur based in South Africa.

Assisting Ms. Barreto was First Secretary and Consul Maurice A. Tiempo who shared with the participants some information on turon as well as Filipino cuisine in general.

12 participants, mostly South Africans, attended the cooking demonstration. They raved about the dish and found it easy to prepare.

Reflecting on the Embassy's successful participation in the WFF, Ambassador Baja remarked, “It was a delightful experience to share the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Philippines with the South African people. We thank the KCC for providing us the platform to showcase such an important aspect of Filipino culture. We, at the Philippine Embassy in Pretoria, acknowledges the vital importance of food diplomacy in further deepening the already existing positive cultural and people-to-people ties between the Philippines and South Africa.

In line with its participation in the second edition of the World Food Festival (WFF) organized by the Korean Cultural Centre (KCC) in South Africa from 26 to 30 June 2023, the Philippine Embassy in Pretoria vigorously promoted Filipino cuisine to the South African audience.

During the opening ceremony on 26 June 2023, Philippine Ambassador Noralyn Jubaira Baja gave a short briefing on Filipino cuisine, which she described as unique, diverse and complex in terms of flavor profile, as a result of the Filipino people's appropriation of foreign influences from colonization, globalization and migration in their indigenous cooking processes and culinary practices. She also highlighted that eating is always a social event for Filipinos.

Philippine cuisine took center stage during the food exhibitions on 26 and 27 June 2023. Distinguished guests from the government, the business sector, the arts and creative community of South Africa, as well as the general public sampled classic Filipino dishes such as okoy (shrimp fritters), ensaymada (Filipino brioche), pansit (stir-fried noodles) and puto (steamed rice cakes).

Local guests found the featured Filipino dishes really tasty and refreshingly different from other Asian dishes.

As part of its efforts to promote the Philippine brand, the Embassy also gave away samples of the ube (purple yam) flavor of Oozies which is locally manufactured in South Africa by Liwayway Food Corporation, the Philippine company behind the iconic snack food line Oishi.

On 29 June 2023, the Embassy hosted a cooking demonstration of turon (banana roll), considered as the national snack food in the Philippines, with the help of Ms. Jeanelyn “Jen” Barreto, a Filipino cooking enthusiast and entrepreneur based in South Africa.

Assisting Ms. Barreto was First Secretary and Consul Maurice A. Tiempo who shared with the participants some information on turon as well as Filipino cuisine in general.

12 participants, mostly South Africans, attended the cooking demonstration. They raved about the dish and found it easy to prepare.

Reflecting on the Embassy's successful participation in the WFF, Ambassador Baja remarked, “It was a delightful experience to share the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Philippines with the South African people. We thank the KCC for providing us the platform to showcase such an important aspect of Filipino culture. We, at the Philippine Embassy in Pretoria, acknowledges the vital importance of food diplomacy in further deepening the already existing positive cultural and people-to-people ties between the Philippines and South Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Foreign Affairs, Republic of the Philippines.

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has made a determination to increase salaries of all public office bearers by three percent, with effect from effect from 01 April 2022. 

This determination follows recommendations made by the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers (the Commission) on the annual salary for all public office bearers, submitted to the President on 17 April 2023.

The Commission recommended 3.8% salary increment for all public office bearers including members of the Independent Constitutional Institutions, Judges, Magistrates and Traditional Leaders for the financial year 2022/2023. 

Having considered the Commission's recommendations and serious economic challenges facing the country, the President has decided that the salaries of all public office bearers be increased by three percent. 

The President has in accordance  to relevant statutory requirements submitted the notice to Parliament for approval before publication in as far as it relates to salaries of judges and magistrates.

The President wishes to thank the Independent Commission for its recommendations.

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

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The Presidency has noted the report of the Acting Public Protector, Adv Kholeka Gcaleka, which absolves the President of alleged abuse of power or breaches of the Executive Ethics Code in relation to an incident of theft at his privately owned Phala Phala game farm in 2020.

The President has always maintained that he was not party to any wrong doing or violation of his oath of office. 

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

Digital technologies and connectivity hold the key to unlocking the true potential of Africa's young people. By opening up new opportunities for African youth to learn and for teachers to connect with students in the most remote and rural communities, these resources play an integral role in improving African education systems. But only if the right support mechanisms and policies are in place.

This is one of the key points highlighted in new research by Vodacom Group, Vodafone and Safaricom, launched in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation. The research paper, entitled “How digital technologies can transform education in sub-Saharan Africa” unpacks the current state of education across the continent. It showcases how digital technologies and connectivity, combined with the necessary regulatory frameworks and support from governments as well as industry stakeholders, can be leveraged to mitigate barriers to education across the continent.

The research report outlines that there has been a sharp increase in access to education across Africa in the last 50 – 60 years but, unfortunately, an increase in access doesn't necessarily translate into a rise in the quality of education being delivered. When coupled with affordable and reliable connectivity, digital tools and technologies offer a cost-effective and scalable solution to this problem by making it possible for young people to connect with highly-skilled educators who can help them translate educational content into valuable knowledge.

“We have witnessed this first-hand via our ecosystem of education projects and initiatives, which seek to provide access to quality educational assets, support remote learning and seek to enhance the overall educational experience for teachers and learners in some of Africa's most under-resourced communities,” says Shameel Joosub, CEO of Vodacom Group.

“Our Vodacom e-School programme in South Africa is a prime example of this”, he adds. The initiative promotes digital education by providing free access to quality education for Primary and High School students (Grade R to 12). This includes access to digital learning materials (like interactive textbooks, multimedia content and assessments), other educational resources and support services. The platform is available on mobile and desktop devices, free of charge, for all Vodacom customers.

“Access to quality education is critical to combatting intergenerational cycles of poverty and inequality. Nelson Mandela always stressed how important education is, not only for self-actualisation and individual transformation, but also in shifting the trajectory of society towards equity, justice and a shared dignity,” says Professor Verne Harris, Acting CEO for the Nelson Mandela Foundation.

While there is no doubt that these digital innovations have the potential to totally transform African education, there are a number of barriers to digital access that prevent African youth from making the most of them. For Professor Jonathan Jansen, an internationally renowned education expert and one of the authors of the research paper, these stumbling blocks include everything from lack of reliable electricity, limited technical support and lackluster Internet access to language barriers, political instability and restrictive social norms. But with the right policies, infrastructure and investments in place, digitalisation can provide new opportunities for Africa's young people to enjoy a more equitable, sustainable and connected future, he says.

“Each of these hurdles can be overcome through the right partnerships, interventions and ecosystems. Importantly, addressing these obstacles demands political buy-in and support from governments to ensure that the mechanisms put in place are appropriate in that they meet African learners and educators where they are,” continues Professor Jansen.

In action, this means developing and implementing regulations that support digital education, building strategic partnerships and investing in digital infrastructure. In addition to this, African governments have to be enablers of small-scale digital education projects and must make a concerted effort to transform teacher training to meet the demands of digital learning.

There is no doubt that the challenge that lies ahead is an arduous one, confirms Joosub. “It is critical that we take the time to understand Africa's economic, social and political environment so that we can bring together the right stakeholders – from those at the top in government the students in classrooms in the most remote corners of our continent – to come up with solutions. In doing so, we can unite to fix the problems we face as a collective so that we can ensure that our young people are equipped with everything they need to add value to their communities and can properly participate in the digital economy.”

Click here (https://apo-opa.info/3JE8J7U) to read the full Africa.connected Digital Literacy paper.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Vodacom Group.

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The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has been committed to improving public health surveillance data to enable better disease management and response strategies. In January 2023, two pioneering features on the Notifiable Medical Conditions (NMC) Reporting App were introduced. These features are designed to enhance surveillance data quality and provide a seamless user experience.

Epidemiological Classification of NMCs by NICD Centre

The first innovative feature, the Epidemiological (Epi) Classification, is a web-based function that revolutionises case classification. NICD centres are now empowered to classify notified cases based on predefined case definitions available on the NMC Reporting App. This classification allows for identifying and excluding cases that do not meet the specified criteria, addressing any erroneous captures made by NMC App users. By ensuring accurate and reliable data, the Epi Classification assists the NMC team in quantifying the true burden of diseases, offering valuable insights for improved disease management strategies.

Hospital Surveillance Form for Category 1 NMCs

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of hospitalisation data in understanding disease epidemiology and assessing the effectiveness of public health interventions. Drawing from this experience, the NICD has introduced a comprehensive Hospital Surveillance Form within the existing Notifiable Medical Conditions surveillance system. This new form collects essential information on risk factors associated with illness for hospitalised patients diagnosed with any category 1 NMC. Factors such as race, comorbidities, body mass index, and previous hospital admissions are recorded for hospitalised, transferred, and discharged patients. Expanding data collection to encompass hospitalisation details, this feature strengthens the overall notifiable medical disease system, allowing for better response capabilities and informed policymaking, particularly in the face of future pandemics.

The implementation of these new features holds immense potential for advancing public health surveillance. The Epi Classification feature promises the accuracy and reliability of reported data, enabling authorities to make evidence-based decisions and allocate resources more efficiently. Simultaneously, the Hospital Surveillance Form provides a more comprehensive understanding of disease dynamics and associated risk factors, paving the way for targeted interventions and informed policy development. These advancements strengthen the overall public health infrastructure, effectively ensuring readiness to combat future health challenges.

Click here to view the exciting features.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Institute for Communicable Diseases, South Africa (NICD).

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has placed Justices TA Maumela and NP Mngqibisa-Thusi on suspension to allow the Judicial Conduct Tribunal to investigate suspected misconduct regarding alleged excessive delays by the judges in handing down a significant number of judgments.

The President has taken this step in terms of Section 177(3) of the Constitution, which empowers the President to suspend a judge on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission.

On 26 January 2023, the Judicial Service Commission accepted a recommendation of the Judicial Conduct Committee that there were reasonable grounds to suspect that the judges were guilty of misconduct in delaying the handing down of a significant number of judgments.

The Commission decided the matter should be referred to the Judicial Conduct Tribunal for investigation.

At its meeting of 20 April 2023, the Judicial Service Commission took a decision to advise the President to suspend Justice Maumela and Justice Mngqibisa-Thusi pending a tribunal process envisaged in Section 19(1) of the Judicial Service Commission Act, 1994 (Act No.9 of 1994).

Both Judge Maumela and Judge Mngqibisa-Thusi are suspended subject to the condition that they finalise their part-heard matters.

The President has informed Chief Justice Raymond Zondo and the suspended justices of his decision.

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

Liquid C2, a business of Liquid Intelligent Technologies (https://www.Liquid.Tech), a pan-African technology group, has revealed that the number of cyberattacks on businesses in Kenya, South Africa, and Zambia increased by 76%. This is according to the latest cyber security report - 'The Evolving Cyber Security Landscape in Africa 2022' (https://apo-opa.info/3XLnJ9T).

Download document (1): https://apo-opa.info/3JyRt3G 
Download document (2): https://apo-opa.info/3CTuMUa
Download document (3): https://apo-opa.info/3CVfezj

Featuring research, analysis, and findings across the three countries on the evolving cyber security threats present in Africa, the report shows that cyberattacks against all large enterprises ramped up dramatically. Kenyan businesses reported an 82% increase in such attacks, while South African businesses recorded a 62% increase, and Zambian businesses a 62% increase.

"The biggest concern emerging from this report is that companies are saying that they've put a lot more cyber security controls in place. With threats evolving faster than security systems, companies cannot afford to get complacent," says David Behr, CEO of Liquid C2. "The report highlights that businesses must be consistently vigilant about the ever-evolving cybercrime landscape and the methods malicious actors use to breach cyber security measures. As the report shows, complacency is a luxury no one can afford."

There are reasons to be optimistic; all the respondents in the report highlighted that they had advanced significantly in their cloud and digital strategies and cyber security capabilities. Furthermore, the majority (68%) of the companies interviewed in the research said they had appointed cyber security staff members or signed up with a cyber security team in the past year. Kenya had the highest percentage at 82%, followed by South Africa (63%) and Zambia (62%).

Yet, as Behr says, "This could prove a double-edged sword. The research highlights that over half of all large enterprises in the three countries were victims of a successful cyberattack, with 90% of them being Kenyan businesses. Increasingly sophisticated methods like Cybercrime-as-a-Service (CaaS) are becoming more popular in Africa, meaning businesses can no longer rely on outdated technologies and processes. It is time they invested in a partner that provides 24/7/365 protection, rapid response, threat intelligence and prevention, compliance and improved business reputation, all designed to cater to the specific needs of businesses.

The top method of attack used by cybercriminals targeting companies was through email, using Phishing or Spam attacks (61%), with attacks through compromised passwords following at 48% and data breaches and attacks (44%) being the second and third most common. Furthermore, 61% of the companies included in the research said that the breaches to their operations occurred as a result of remote or hybrid working.

One of the most concerning revelations in the report is that Africa faces a growing 100,000-person gap in the number of certified cyber security professionals. Reports estimate that there are only 7,000 certified cyber security professionals, or one for every 177,000 people on the continent. However, this number may disguise the true magnitude of the problem as there is no readily available data on the level of investment made by African governments into cyber security.

The report underlines the increasing need for companies to invest in cyber security measures to avoid reputational damage, financial loss, and potential business interruptions. Additionally, it reinforces how vital it is for organisations to collaborate with trusted third-party Managed Security Services Providers (MSSPs) to implement and refine their cyber security strategies.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

About Liquid C2:
Liquid C2 is a business of Cassava Technologies, a pan-African technology group, and the Liquid division was launched to offer customers managed cloud and security services, product solutions, related professional and advisory services to customers in 22 African countries. The business operates Africa's widest Azure Stack deployment across four countries and deployed the only African Cyber Security Fusion Centres in South Africa and Kenya, with another four to be launched in 2023. Liquid C2 was selected as an Operator Connect launch partner by Microsoft in six countries. Liquid C2 was a finalist in the Microsoft Partner of the Year 2021 and 2022 and a Microsoft Partner of the Year in Ethiopia 2022. https://LiquidC2.africa  

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has this morning, Thursday, 29 June 2023, arrived in the Kingdom of Eswatini to participate at the 8th Southern Africa Customs Union (SACU) Heads of State and Government Summit.

The President‘s working visit at the SACU  Heads of State and Government Summit is at the invitation of the current Chair of SACU, His Majesty King Mswati III, and the iNgwenyama of the Kingdom of Eswatini. The Summit will take place at the Mandvulo Royal Palace under the theme " SACU Industrialization Opportunities through Improving Economic Complexity”. 

President Ramaphosa will deliver a statement at the opening ceremony of the 8th Southern Africa Customs Union Heads of State and Government Summit. 

The SACU Strategic Plan 2022- 2027, which will be in its first year of review since being adopted at the 7th SACU Heads of State and Government Summit is centered on six pillars, namely;  Industrialisation, Export and Investment Promotion, Trade Facilitation and Logistics, Implementation and Leveraging of The AFCFTA Opportunities, Trade Relations/Unified Engagement with Third Parties, Finance and Resource Mobilisation and Effectiveness of SACU Institutions.

Established in 1910, SACU is the oldest Customs Union in the world. 

President Cyril Ramaphosa is accompanied by Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel; Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza; Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana; and the South African Revenue Service Commissioner, Edward Kieswetter.

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

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President Cyril Ramaphosa offers his deepest condolences to Premier of Limpopo Province, Chupu Stanley Mathabatha, on the passing of his wife, Mrs Maggie Mathabatha.

Mrs Mathabatha passed away on Wednesday, 28 June, following a short illness.

President Ramaphosa said: “My thoughts and those of the National Executive as well as the nation are with Premier Mathabatha, his family, and the administration of Limpopo in this moment of loss.

“As a community-focused leader, Maggie Mathabatha dedicated herself to the development and dignity of the people of Limpopo through housing opportunities, food security and support to people with disabilities.

“Her involvement with communities was a valued and exemplary complement to the work of Government led by the Premier and the Provincial Executive.

“We join the people of Limpopo in this hour of mourning and in our shared prayer that the soul of Maggie Mathabatha will rest in peace.”

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

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Deputy President Paul Mashatile has noted a report by News24 focusing on the Deputy President and his past. The story contains a number of potentially damaging, yet unsubstantiated allegations against the Deputy President.

Left unchallenged, these could create the impression that the Deputy President does not respect or seek to uphold his oath of office, the dictates of the constitution and national law, or is not mindful of the concerns of ordinary South Africans about corruption and unethical conduct from those who hold public office. 

As such, the Deputy President would like to assure the nation that he is committed to his oath of office and the principles of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. The Deputy President would also like to reiterate his commitment to fighting corruption and building an ethical and competent developmental state. In line with these commitments, the Deputy President has always conducted himself in ways that comply with the letter and spirit of the law and Executive disclosure requirements throughout his career spanning nearly 30 years of service to the people of South Africa. Any allegation or insinuation that he has ever betrayed this commitment is categorically denied. 

While the Deputy President denies any and all allegations of wrongdoing, we note that News24 fails to offer any real evidence of misconduct on the part of the Deputy President, choosing instead to rely on innuendo, suggestion, and guilt by association. This is a regrettable approach to journalism and it has the potential to hinder rather than help the cause of accountability in public life. 

For the record, the Deputy President has, throughout his life as an activist and public representative, met many people from different walks of life, including the individuals mentioned by News24. Naturally, some of the people he has interacted with throughout that long time have become close personal associates. There is nothing wrong or unusual about this, and the attempt to scandalise such associations is unfortunate.

The Deputy President has never awarded, influenced, or in any way caused any state or public sector contract to be awarded to the individuals and companies mentioned by News24. Nor does the Deputy President have ownership or permanent use of any properties bought by these individuals and companies. The Deputy President would challenge anyone to prove otherwise. 

One of the most unfortunate parts of the News24 report hit on the Deputy President, is the gratuitous suggestion that the Deputy President is “working hard behind the scenes to ascend to the office of president”, supposedly by some underhand means. This is strenuously denied. 

The primary mandate of The Presidency is to provide support to the President and Deputy President in leading the Executive and to assist them in the coordination and supervision of Government. The Presidency translates and implements the commitments of the President as outlined in the State of the Nation Address (SONA).

The Deputy President supports the President overall and specifically executes various responsibilities as delegated by the President. Central to the responsibilities of the Deputy President is to address the factors which impede service delivery and implementation of the Government programme, including departmental and local government capacity, red tape, governance, poor contract management, long turn-around times and corruption. 

The specific program for the Deputy President is to focus on fixing local government, by prioritising some of the 66 identified dysfunctional municipalities, intervening, setting milestones and showing success cases in order to replicate them nationally. All of this work is mandated by and supported by the President, aimed exclusively at enhancing the capacity of the state to deliver to the people. None of it is in service of some political machinations against or in favour of any Government leader. To allege otherwise, based only on the say-so of nameless sources, is irresponsible in the extreme. 

The Deputy President will not be distracted from the work entrusted to him by the President and the people of South Africa, and will continue to conduct himself in public office based on the ethical dictates that have guided him through a long career in politics: integrity, respect for the law and constitution, and an unwavering commitment to service and to the primary interests of the people of South Africa. 

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

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Transport Minister Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga has expressed her disheartenment at the rising scourge of road fatalities after two fatal car crashes were reported in Mqanduli in Eastern Cape on Monday (26 June 2023) - and the second crash on R555 Witbank/Ogies Road in Mpumalanga on Tuesday (27 June 2023).

The Eastern Cape accident claimed the lives of eight passengers, while six people perished in the Mpumalanga car crash.

The Minister has conveyed her heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to those who were injured. Over the years it has been proven that moving violations and human error are the biggest causes of road crashes on our roads. Therefore, road users are urged to take necessary precautions and make it their business to always:

• Obey the speed limit
• Ensure vehicle and driver fitness
• Rest every 200km or every 2 hours
• Not overtake on barrier lines
• Buckle up, and
• Don't drink and drive

The Minister has called upon Traffic Law Enforcement Officers to hold accountable those who fail to adhere to the rules of the road. 

She has also instructed the RTMC to lead the investigation of these two crashes and provide her with an investigative report in due course.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of Transport.

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The Acting Premier of the North West Province, Nono Maloyi has vowed to fast track the completion of road projects in the province. This follows an oversight visit to Nelson Mandela Drive in the provincial capital, Mahikeng. The visit is aimed at ensuring that all road projects in the province meet the deadline.

In his policy statement Premier Kaobitsa Bushy Maape indicated that the province will be embarking on a rigorous road infrastructure development programme. The Nelson Mandela Drive is one of the roads identified for this purpose. Acting Premier Maloyi says road infrastructure is key to the developmental trajectory of the province

"Road infrastructure is one of the apex priorities of government.  Today we are visiting Nelson Mandela Drive in Mahikeng to receive an update on this road construction project. Initially this project was supposed to be completed by September this year. We are very worried and business people are worried and the community is very worried that the pace is very slow.

We met with the contractor and he gave us a report on when will the project be completed. We are satisfied but we are going to monitor progress and we will be here fortnightly. We are going to embark on a similar approach with other projects to see to it that service providers meet their contractual obligations” emphasized Acting Premier Maloyi.

MEC for Public Works and Roads, Gaoage Oageng Molapisi maintains the department is geared-up to curb any delays on road projects.

“We understand the negative impact of the delays on our projects and inconveniences to motorists and other road users. In line with the accelerated service delivery plan, we will be revisiting this project in the next two weeks as per the instruction of the Acting Premier. We will do everything in our power to see to it that we complete this project on time” concluded MEC Molapisi.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of North West Office of the Premier, Republic of South Africa.