South Africa

4 March 2025

KwaMagxaki customer care centre reopens after four-year closure

Location: News

KwaMagxaki customer care centre reopens after four-year closure

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s KwaMagxaki customer care centre has officially reopened its doors following a four-year closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

During its non-operational period, the centre suffered significant damage from vandalism, which affected the building structure, including electrical cables and other vital equipment.

This forced ratepayers from KwaMagxaki, KwaDwesi, Veeplas, Zwide, Joe Slovo and KwaDwesi Extension to travel to other areas for assistance with their accounts, assistance with applications and general inquiries.

Speaking at the official re-opening of the centre on Monday, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe, said the current administration is committed to ensuring efficient service delivery.

"We are happy that the people will no longer have to pay for transport to go pay their rates or inquire about our services, especially the indigent and the elderly. We have brought the service to their doorstep,” Lobishe said.

Lobishe said the metro is making it easier for residents to receive services and pay for them.

"For us to balance the service we offer and the payment of such service, it is critical that the centres... are where people are. We call upon our people to work with us in protecting this centre against vandals.”

Services to be offered at the centre include 'assistance to the poor (ATTP)' applications, debt repayment arrangements, Interactive Voice Response (IVR) registration, water rebate applications, Estate Late Project (free property transfer for surviving ATTP beneficiaries) and opening of service accounts.

The centre will also assist with property valuation certificates, copies of municipal statements, and account balance enquiries.

Mayoral Committee Member for Budget and Treasury, Khanya Ngqisha, said the directorate is working towards providing a hassle-free service that is cost effective for ratepayers.

"We are excited, as this will serve our residents efficiently. We encourage our people to come and receive the services that have been tailor-made for them,” Ngqisha said.

One of the residents from KwaMaxgaki, Zoleka Jonas, said she was pleased that the centre has been opened.

"We will no longer spend money to go to town for services. It will just be a walk-in, and your enquiries will be solved. We are grateful to our ward councillor and the mayor for this service,” said Jonas. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 03/04/2025 - 14:07
178 views

4 March 2025

Cape Town to host Cape Town Cycle Tour

Location: News

Cape Town to host Cape Town Cycle Tour

The Western Cape Government (WCG) will welcome over 30 000 cyclists for the Cape Town Cycle Tour set to take place on Sunday, 9 March 2025.

This iconic event is a highlight of Cape Town and the Western Cape’s sporting calendar, attracting participants from across the country and around the world.

According to the WCG, major sporting events such as the Cape Town Cycle Tour bring many benefits to the province as international and domestic cyclists are expected to boost the already thriving tourism sector, which is critical to creating jobs.

MEC of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie, who will also be taking part, said: “We welcome all cyclists to our province, and I am excited to see more and more people taking up cycling and living active and healthy lifestyles. Please be safe during the tour. All the best to the riders and the organisers. I look forward to seeing you out on the road.”

The Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport supports major sporting events in the province as it encourages regular participation in sports, as well as playing an important role in the economy, from tourism, hospitality, and retail, to creating direct and indirect jobs.

Taking riders on a 109km route around the Cape Peninsula, the Cape Town Cycle Tour has been described as South Africa’s must-do cycling event.

Several Cape Town roads will be closed on Saturday and Sunday. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 03/04/2025 - 14:18
90 views

4 March 2025

Government welcomes GDP growth

Location: News

Government welcomes GDP growth

Government has welcomed the latest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data released by Statistics South Africa, which shows that the economy expanded by 0.6% in the fourth quarter of 2024.

The growth followed a contraction of 0.1% in the third quarter.

Growth in the fourth quarter was primarily driven by the agriculture, finance, and trade sectors on the production side, while household spending led growth on the expenditure side.

“The latest GDP data is encouraging and signals a welcome recovery, especially because one of government’s immediate priorities is to ensure positive economic growth that will encourage business development and provide more opportunities for employment, especially for women and the youth,” Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Acting Director-General, Terry Vandayar, said on Tuesday.

GCIS said government has put in place a broad range of programmes and policies to support the growth of small businesses, develop infrastructure for faster economic growth, and encourage investment from inside and outside of South Africa.

“Working with various stakeholders, Government will continue to build on this momentum to drive even greater economic resilience,” GCIS said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 03/04/2025 - 15:33
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4 March 2025

eThekwini Municipality tackles water challenges

Location: News

eThekwini Municipality tackles water challenges

The eThekwini Municipality will continue to work on various interventions to manage and reduce the increase in water demand that has resulted in the recurring disruption of water supply.

To manage the demand and to build storage, the municipality has implemented rationing in many areas, especially in the Northern and Southern areas.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the municipality noted that demand currently exceeds supply by approximately 100 megalitres a day, resulting in further strain on the system.

This is due to the current curtailment measures that were implemented by uMngeni-uThukela Water in October last year.

“To augment the water supply, comprehensive plans have been set in motion in collaboration with the national Department of Water and Sanitation and uMngeni-uThukela Water to construct and commission the uMkhomazi Dam, a pivotal project to augment water supply to the city,” the municipality said.

The municipality is also actively implementing various medium-term interventions, including infrastructure upgrades, pipeline replacements, and a comprehensive leak detection and repair programme.

The installation of pressure management valves, dysfunctional meter replacements, the incorporation of technology to enhance meter accuracy, and improvements in billing and debtor management, are also being implemented.

“Currently, areas in the West of the city are experiencing intermittent supply due to the shutdown of the 53 Pipeline by uMngeni-uThukela Water. This was done to allow the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) to relocate approximately 200m of the 53 Pipeline, as part of its N3 upgrade project,” the municipality said.

Durban’s beachfront set for major overhaul

Meanwhile, Durban’s iconic beachfront is set to undergo a major transformation, with a complete facelift and redevelopment of the buildings along the promenade.

Over the past few years, changes have been made to improve the offering to visitors on the beachfront, ensuring that it remains a world-class facility.

Head of the Real Estate Unit, Thapelo Mmusinyane noted that as tenant leases expire, the municipality follows proper process to invite bids for the development of innovative new spaces and eateries that will elevate the beachfront experience.

This forms an integral part of the City’s Proactive Land Release Strategy, which was adopted in September 2021.

The strategy enables the city to proactively manage surplus land, assisting the city to achieve its developmental objectives, stimulate economic activity and Black economic empowerment, and promoting economic transformation in the property sector.

Mmusinyane explained that between May 2021 and November 2022, 25 properties were put up for bid, with 10 new leases being awarded to companies 100% owned by historically disadvantaged individuals.

“All 10 awards were made to companies that are 100% owned by historically disadvantaged individuals. On the beachfront in particular, properties that have been affected are Circus, Bike and Bean, and Minitown.”

Mmusinyane added that the historic building in which Joe Cools and other eateries are housed, will be upgraded soon by a developer, who will then sublet the space to suitable tenants.

He assured the public that a fair, equitable, and transparent process was followed as stipulated in Section 14(5) of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA).

“This section mandates that the disposal, including leasing of municipal properties must adhere to principles of fairness, equity, transparency, and competitiveness in line with the City’s Supply Chain Management Policy (Section 111 of the MFMA).

“Renewing the leases without an open, competitive process would have violated these principles, as well as Section 217(1) of the Constitution, which upholds the same standards for public procurement. Therefore, lease renewals could not be granted without contravening the law,” he explained. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 03/04/2025 - 14:47
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4 March 2025

Call for NPOs to work with government to address FATF challenges

Location: News

Call for NPOs to work with government to address FATF challenges

As South Africa intensifies efforts to exit the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list by year-end, Deputy Minister of Social Development, Ganief Hendricks, has called on non-profit organisations (NPOs) and the civil society sector to work with government in achieving this goal.

The Deputy Minister made this remark at the start of the three-day multi-stakeholder engagement convened by the Department of Social Development at Premier Hotel OR Tambo, in Kempton Park on Monday.

The engagement is focusing on Recommendation 8 of the Financial Action Task Force, which aims to protect NPOs from potential terrorist financing and money laundering abuse through effective implementation of risk-based measures.

READ | Social Development hosts engagement session on the FATF’s Recommendation 8

The FATF is the international standard-setting body that oversees global compliance with anti-money laundering rules.

In his address, Hendricks cautioned government against using legislation to stifle the operations of legitimate NPOs that play a vital role in communities across South Africa.

“Our National Development Plan (NDP, Vision 2030) calls for active citizenry especially from the grassroots level. We must therefore guard overburdening and frustrating grassroots initiatives through the use of legislation.

“The objective of the NPO Act is to create an enabling legislative environment for the NPO sector to thrive and contribute to our national development agenda”, the Deputy Minister said.

The Deputy Minister’s sentiments were echoed by representatives from Kagiso Trust, Afrika Tikkun, Thuthuka Foundation, The Grail Centre Trust and Chartered Institute for Business Accountants (CIBA), all of which expressed concerns about “over-regulating the NPO sector”.

Speaking on behalf of the National Treasury, which is the lead government department in addressing all of the FATF’s recommendations, Ismail Momoniat mentioned that while South Africa has made great progress towards exiting the grey list, much more still need to be done with regard to full satisfying FATF’s global anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing standards.

“[The] FATF is not satisfied with the mere existence of national legislation, but also enforcement of administrative penalties for high-risk NPOs that fail to comply with the provisions of the law. We need to look beyond FATF’s standards and collectively work towards ensuring a national blueprint on transparency and accountability”, Momoniat said.

The latest report from FATF shows that South Africa has partly met the criteria for Recommendation 8.

One of the FATF’s requirements is that Social Development, as the regulator of the NPO sector in terms of the NPO Act (Act No. 71 of 1997, as amended through the General Laws Amendment Act 22 of 2022), has to conduct more outreach and educational programmes with NPOs to promote better understanding of the global anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing standards.

Survey

To assess the risks of terror financing in the sector, South Africa conducted a national survey with a sample of 301 registered associations, non-profit companies and public benefit organisations from databases of the Department of Social Development, Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) and South African Revenue Service (SARS).

The survey found that NPOs in South Africa were exposed to medium risks from the operations of known terror organisations such as the Islamic State and its affiliates in Africa, al-Shabab and its affiliates in East Africa Boko Haram, amongst others.

Of the 301 NPOs surveyed, 120 were identified as high-risk. The survey found that the nature of risks associated with NPOs in South Africa include but not limited to, NPOs facilitating foreign travel for terrorist causes, using multiple bank accounts, being used as conduit to channel foreign funds to terrorist groups in Africa, supporting terrorist causes through cash and using the internet and online media for fundraising recruitment and propaganda.

The Acting Director of the Financial Intelligence Centre, Advocate Peter Smit emphasised that since FATF Recommendation 8 does not apply to all NPOs, it is important for South Africa to show that the majority of NPOs are not high-risk and therefore should not be subjected to restrictive legislative and administrative requirements.

FATF is scheduled to conduct an onsite visit on Recommendation 8 in South Africa in September this year as part of the periodic reporting requirement to exit the grey list.

The FATF grey listed South Africa at its February 2023 plenary meeting held in Paris. It developed an Action Plan with 22 Action items linked to the eight strategic deficiencies identified in the country’s anti-money laundering and combating of financial terrorism regime.

The second day of the multi-stakeholder engagement will focus on national and international perspectives and the impact of Recommendation 8 on NPOs, as well as sharing of best practice from Uganda, which has successfully been removed from FATF grey list. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Tue, 03/04/2025 - 13:56
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4 March 2025

BMA to host Public-Private Partnerships Conference

Location: News

BMA to host Public-Private Partnerships Conference

The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato will on Friday deliver a keynote address at the 2nd Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for Defence and Security Conference.

The conference to take place at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) International Convention Centre in Pretoria, will be focus on empowering the defence sector through strategic public-private partnerships.

It will be held under the theme: "Empowering the Defence Sector through Public-Private Partnerships."

In his address, Masiapato is expected to elaborate on the role of public-private partnerships in border management and underscore the potential opportunities arising from collaboration with the private sector.

The Commissioner will also examine the progress made in implementing the BMA’s PPPs, as well as lessons learned and application to other PPPs in the defences and security sector.

He will further discuss opportunities for future BMA partnerships with the private sector and provide an update on the accomplishments of the BMA, as the authority will celebrate its second anniversary in April 2025.

In a statement on Tuesday, the BMA said the authority asserts that effective and well-managed borders are crucial for ensuring public safety, promoting economic growth and safeguarding national interests.

“With only four days remaining before the conference, the BMA is poised to engage in discussions on empowering the defence and security sector through Public-Private Partnerships. These discussions forms part of objectives of securing borders for development and protecting South Africa’s interests to the fullest extent possible, the BMA said.

A diverse range of high-level speakers, including Defence and Military Veterans Deputy Minister, Major General (Ret) Bantu Holomisa, and Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), General Rudzani Maphwanya.

Holomisa will explore partnership opportunities in implementing South Africa’s Defence review, while Maphwanya will provide the SANDF’s perspective on PPPs, addressing critical funding needs, and how the private sector can contribute to future preparedness.

In addition, a selection of experts from various fields will engage in critical panel discussions addressing the current advancements, challenges and strategic opportunities associated with public-private partnerships in the realm of defence and security within South Africa. - SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 03/04/2025 - 13:42
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4 March 2025

W Cape welcomes lifting of ban on vegetable exports to Botswana

Location: News

W Cape welcomes lifting of ban on vegetable exports to Botswana

Western Cape MEC for Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, has welcomed the lifting of the ban on vegetable exports to Botswana.

This is after the previous administration of Botswana, led by President Mokgweetsi Masisi, imposed a ban on South African produce to support domestic farmers and reduce reliance on imports, which has since been lifted by President Duma Boko.

Meyer believes this move will encourage increased trade among Southern African Customs Union (SACU) members, who view the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a critical tool for developing regional value chains and enhancing exports.

According to the MEC, Botswana’s gradual lifting of vegetable imports will occur in two phases.

Phase 1, which began in December 2024, includes vegetables such as turmeric, patty pan, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, green peas, sweet corn, broccoli, cauliflower, gem squash, baby marrow, green bean, sweet melon, mushroom, calabash, cantaloup and eggplant.

Meanwile, Phase 2 is expected to start on 1 April 2025 and will see an easing of restrictions on beetroot, butternut, cabbage, carrot, garlic, ginger, green melon, herbs, lettuce, onion, potato, sweet pepper, tomato and watermelon.

The MEC said the Western Cape accounted for 37% (or R3.3 million) of South Africa’s vegetable exports to Botswana in quarter four of 2024.

Regarding the contribution to Phase 1 nationally, Meyer said the provincial share has steadily increased during the period under review, reaching 63% in quarter 3 of 2024 and dropping to 55% in quarter 4 of 2024.

“It is expected that with the lifting of import restriction for vegetables listed in Phase 2, there will be an improvement in South African exports to Botswana, including those from the Western Cape,” Meyer said.

The MEC has since encouraged fair trade between SADC partners, saying the lifting of these restrictions is a move in the right direction.

“Our trade relations with our regional partners are mutually beneficial,” he stated.

Meanwhile, he said an improvement in exports to Botswana takes the province closer to the Western Cape Government’s Growth for Jobs plan, which aims to triple the value of Western Cape exports of goods and services, including tourism, to R450 billion by 2035. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 03/04/2025 - 11:46
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4 March 2025

Ruberto Scholtz, Sindiso Nyoni, Rowan Sakarombe and Botswana Metalheads From Southern Africa Join KFC Streetwise to Celebrate the Power of Influence and Inspiration

Location: News

Cultural Creators from three of South Africa's neighbouring countries feature in KFC Streetwise's (https://Global.KFC.com/) new Original Feeds Original campaign, which celebrates the inspiration that feeds creativity.

Windhoek fashion designer Ruberto Scholtz, Harare visual director Rowan Sakarombe and the Botswana Metalheads feature in the campaign's epic TV commercial (https://apo-opa.co/43najWe), which stars Khuli Chana, Blxckie and 25K. The commercial's soundtrack (https://apo-opa.co/4irtnad) is a new song, the Originals Anthem, written and recorded by the rappers.

“Just as KFC's Streetwise brand takes its inspiration from the iconic taste of KFC's Original Recipe – while adding bucketloads of value for a new generation – the film depicts Khuli, Blxckie and 25K inspiring each other and those who will follow them,” says KFC Africa Chief Marketing Officer Grant Macpherson. “The Cultural Creators are part of the same powerful narrative.”

Scholtz, who made the suits Blxckie and 25K wear in the photoshoot scene in the TV commercial, is inspired by collaborations. “If you see someone who can do something well, why not work with them?” he says.

Sakarombe appears in the film shooting the Originals Anthem music video in the street with Khuli Chana, Blxckie and 25K. He says he's inspired by the “raw experiences of life around me” and the vibrant energy, constant motion and diverse cultures of cities.

The Originals Anthem inspires the Botswana Metalheads – whose music often contains local influences and whose style reflects cowboy culture - to infuse their originality and give it a heavy metal angle.

The campaign, which launches on 04 March 2025 across SADC regions, also features a packaging collaboration between KFC Streetwise and Cultural Creator Sindiso Nyoni, a Bulawayo-born illustrator who has built a stellar career after being inspired by an “original” – his high school art teacher, a retired graphic designer.

Making a mark

Macpherson says it's a time when young people are hungry to share their unique signature with the world. “Who better to feed their hunger than the originals who came before them?” he says.

“We want the Originals Anthem and all the activity around it to inspire all the young Africans trying to make their mark through their creativity and individuality.”

Khuli Chana says that as one of the legends of South African hip-hop, he's passionate about inspiring new artists. “The reason I started Maftown Heights in 2009 was to help rappers from Mahikeng find their footing in Joburg with a sound and language that wasn't mainstream at the time,” he says. “It led to great things and it's still giving new artists a platform. I love inspiring musicians to find their original sound.”

Blxckie says his career and development has been built on collaborations, and every one of them keeps him original. “Musicians lift each other up,” he says. “They support each other and make each other better at what they do.”

25K was introduced to rap by artists such as DJ Mojava, Ghetto Squad, and old school hip-hop groups Dead Prez and Outcast, and became an original by rapping in S'Pitori, a mixed language spoken in Pretoria.

“I want to be remembered for that and I want to inspire kids,” he says. “When I'm no longer here, I want to feel like I left something that will make it easier for another kid to come out of Pretoria.”

Other Cultural Creators who appear in the Original Feeds Original TV commercial include Kind Kid toymaker Sanele Qwabe, “Nail Pimp” Nailed Ntswembu, the Island Gals skateboarders and custom car pimper Ofentse Mphatsoe.

Passing the torch

The commercial begins with Khuli starting to write the Originals Anthem and ends with him as the OG, welcoming Blxckie and 25K on stage and handing the mic to them.

“It's the story of my life and it's the story of KFC Streetwise,” says Khuli. “Passing the mic is like passing the torch, and that's how Original Feeds Original.”

Director Sam Coleman says the 90-second video portrays the endless cycle of inspiration, in which each creator is galvanised by the ones before and motivates those who follow. “It's an explosive mix of visual eye candy, entertainment, musical reward, style, and unique brand integration that instantly hijacks your attention and eyeballs,” he says. “Everything about it is engaging, surprising and fresh.”

And there's an extra twist to the campaign, says Macpherson. “Every time someone streams the Originals Anthem, the money it earns will go to KFC Add Hope. It will be used to feed malnourished children throughout South Africa.

“Among the kids who benefit from Add Hope are the next generation of Khulis, Blxckies and 25Ks and the Cultural Creators of the future. So, anyone who listens to the anthem will be helping them on their way.”

The Originals Anthem is available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify (https://apo-opa.co/4irtnad), YouTube Music (https://apo-opa.co/4if2LsS) and Apple Music (https://apo-opa.co/43srwgO).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KFC Africa.

30” TVC available here (https://apo-opa.co/4h9AfYu)
90” TVC available here (https://apo-opa.co/43najWe)

KFC socials:
KFC Eswatini
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4ilOwlT
Instagram: @ kfc_eswatini - https://apo-opa.co/43mH322

About KFC Africa:
KFC has been in South Africa for over 53 years and has more than 1,300 stores across the country. The first KFC restaurant in South Africa opened in 1971 in Orange Grove, Johannesburg. KFC is the leading quick-service restaurant brand in South Africa with just under a third of market share, according to Brand Image Tracker. KFC serves more than 20 million customers a month and we work hard to ensure that no matter which of our restaurants they walk into, they will get that distinctive KFC flavour and have a great experience. KFC's Original Recipe® Chicken was first made by Colonel Harland Sanders in 1940 when he perfected his secret recipe of 11 herbs and spices at his restaurant in Kentucky. Today, KFC is the world's most popular chicken restaurant, still preparing our chicken with the Colonel's secret recipe to his exact standards. Every KFC restaurant follows the same global processes and procedures to ensure that our customers get great-tasting food, every time. KFC Streetwise is a registered trademark.

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4 March 2025

Lions Roar, Titans Triumph & Western Province Dominate in the Latest Round of the Hollywoodbets Pro Series

Location: Sport

JOHANNESBURG: The 2024/25 Hollywoodbets Pro Series continues to build momentum as another thrilling weekend of women’s domestic cricket concluded with standout...

4 March 2025

KFC Celebrates Inspirational African Women Accelerating Action Towards Equality

Location: Business

Progress in closing the gender gap in South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa has almost halted, leaving millions of women at a disadvantage to men. But female role models across the continent are refusing to admit defeat, dedicating themselves to accelerating progress towards gender equality.

To mark International Women's Day on 8 March and honour its theme of “Accelerate Action”, KFC Africa has collected the stories of dozens of women who are taking bold steps to advance equality on the continent by educating, empowering and supporting women to achieve more, together, faster.

KFC Africa's list contains the names of 54 women – one for each year the company has been in Africa – and follows its successful International Women's Day campaign in 2024 which introduced an inaugural list (https://apo-opa.co/4h5xiID) of 53 “female firsts”. Each of those women had overcome educational, social and financial obstacles to achieve something no woman in their country had done before.

The 2025 list (https://apo-opa.co/4h5xiID), drawn from each of the 22 Sub-Saharan Africa countries where KFC has restaurants, also has its share of female firsts – people such as Dior Fall Sow, Senegal's first female prosecutor; Nelly Mutti, the Zambian parliament's first female speaker; and Adelaide Retselisitsoe Matlanyane, the first woman to lead Lesotho's central bank.

The list is dominated, however, by younger women who are breaking the mould – particularly in the technology sector – and showing they can do anything they set their mind to, regardless of age or gender.

They include the likes of Christine Ogo, a Cote d'Ivoire physicist who has encouraged thousands of schoolgirls to pursue science, technology, engineering and mathematics; Rachel Sibande, who set up Malawi's first technology incubator for emerging entrepreneurs and has gone on to teach coding to 92,000 women and children; and Regina Honu, whose Tech Needs Girls movement in Ghana has trained more than 20,000 women and girls to code.

Gender gap

“It's a powerful list that gives us hope after the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report (https://apo-opa.co/4i2QKXB) in 2024 showed that progress seems to have ground to a halt,” says Akhona Qengqe, General Manager of KFC Africa.

The report showed that 68.4% of Sub-Saharan Africa's gender gap had been closed, only marginally higher than 68.2% in 2023 (https://apo-opa.co/3QEYGm5). South Africa, while being Africa's highest scorer and ranking 18th out of 146 nations, went backwards, from 78.7% in 2023 to 78.5% a year later.

“The report says that at the current rate of progress, it will be 2158 until the world reaches full gender parity,” says Qengqe. “That's why we need to accelerate action, particularly in Africa, and why the efforts of the women on the KFC list are worthy of recognition and support.”

In her seven years at KFC – she was as director of Africa franchise development, director of transformation and diversity and chief people officer before taking over as general manager in April 2023 – Qengqe has prioritised female empowerment.

Her initiatives include spearheading KFC Add Hope, a women-led programme that serves free meals to tens of thousands of children at more than 3,000 feeding centres across South Africa.

In 2021, she launched the Women on the Move leadership development programme, which prepares 22 women at KFC for future leadership positions every year, cultivating a pipeline of talent. Within two years, the number of female leaders in the business grew by 14%.

Transforming franchising

Last November she turned her attention to the wider quick service restaurant sector, launching Women in Franchising Africa (Wifa), the first network for current and aspiring female franchisees and franchisors across the continent.

“To say I am passionate about the inclusion of women in growing our economies is an understatement. It is in fact one of my life's purposes,” she says. “My partners in Wifa intend to transform the participation of women in the franchising sector across African economies.

“We want to educate women on how to run successful franchise businesses, provide networking opportunities for like-minded women, transform the sector by making funding accessible to women, and create mentorship opportunities for all the women in the network.”

KFC Africa Chief People Officer Nolo Thobejane says “Accelerate Action” is a call to look at what has a positive impact on women's advancement and replicate it.

“This is a journey we need to embark on together as we learn from each other. I cannot stress enough the importance of forming alliances and partnerships to amplify impact. By working together, organisations and individuals can share resources, knowledge, and support to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for women.”

“At KFC, we have implemented some programmes which have yielded great results – such as the Women on the Move Leadership programme to ensure the pipeline of leaders, developing them with quality education and training through initiatives like our Streetwise Academy and then providing career support into positions of leadership.”

“Other successful initiatives organisations can implement include designing and building infrastructure that meets the needs of women and girls, involving them in sustainable agriculture, and elevating their participation and achievement in sport, as we do with KFC Mini Cricket.”

“There's a lot we can do as individuals, too – we can call out stereotypes, challenge discrimination, question bias and celebrate women's success. Everyone everywhere can Accelerate Action.”

Qengqe says the new list of 54 names brings to 107 the number of inspirational African women KFC has honoured and recognised in the past two years. “We know this is the tip of a wonderful iceberg, and we welcome nominations of other women who are Accelerating Action in Africa.”

Explore the list of 54 women Accelerating Action across Africa: https://apo-opa.co/4heEjqM

To nominate a woman Accelerating Action: Email: za-kfcafricamedia@yum.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KFC Africa.

For media inquiries and to arrange interviews with Akhona Qengqe and Nolo Thobejane:
Elmarie Swart
Phone number:
WhatsApp: +44 7464739649
South Africa: +27 79 831 2429
Email: elmarie@kamuses.co.za

KFC Socials:
Instagram – @kfcsouthafrica - https://apo-opa.co/3FdDUap
Facebook – @KFCSA - https://apo-opa.co/4hYOsJl
TikTok – @kfcsa - https://apo-opa.co/4h83tHx
X – @KFCSA - https://apo-opa.co/4h9pMMX
YouTube – @KFCSouthAfrica - youtube.com/@KFCSouthAfrica

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3 March 2025

SA joins the world in marking Hearing Day

Location: News

SA joins the world in marking Hearing Day

All South Africans have been called to join the global community in commemorating World Hearing Day on Monday.

World Hearing Day, which is celebrated annually on 3 March, aims to raise awareness about deafness and hearing and to promote access to ear and hearing care.

The day highlights a specific theme on which the World Health Organisation and its partners carry out activities based on the theme.

This year’s World Hearing Day theme, “Changing mindsets: Empower yourself”, builds on the 2024 focus on changing mindsets towards ear and hearing care.

Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities spokesperson, Cassius Selala, said that hearing was fundamental to communication, education, employment, and overall well-being.

“If it is left unaddressed, hearing loss can hinder speech development, academic progress, and economic opportunities. It can also lead to social isolation, stigma, and reduced quality of life.

“Hearing impairment (HI) is a silent planetary health crisis that requires attention worldwide. The prevalence of HI in South Africa is estimated at 5.5 in 100 live births, which is about five times higher than the prevalence in high-income countries,” Selala said.

According to the World Report on Hearing 2022, approximately four million people with a hearing disability live in South Africa. However, less than 600 000 South Africans use South African Sign Language, which accounts for just 0.02% of the country’s population, according to Census 2022.

Urgent interventions needed

Selala warned that without urgent interventions, hearing loss, particularly among vulnerable and disadvantaged populations, will continue to rise, exacerbating existing inequalities in healthcare access across the continent.

“It is estimated that by 2030, over 500 million people are expected to have disabling hearing loss, which will also require rehabilitation. Over the years, one billion young people will also face the risk of permanent hearing loss due to prolonged exposure to loud sounds during recreational pastimes, such as listening to music and video game play,” Selala said.

Addressing hearing impairment

To address the growing challenge of hearing impairment, the department is advocating for several key actions, and these include:
• Improve access to ear and hearing care, especially in underserved communities.
• Combat stigma and misperceptions about hearing loss through education and awareness campaigns.
• Strengthen national policies to integrate hearing care into primary healthcare
systems.
• Expand training programmes to increase the number of skilled hearing care
professionals.
• Invest in infrastructure and assistive devices, ensuring that hearing aids, cochlear implants and other technologies are available and affordable for those who need them.

Selala urged individuals of all ages to empower themselves, to ensure healthy ears and hearing for themselves and others. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 09:56
329 views

3 March 2025

Finance in Common Summit Urges Global Development Finance Institutions to Harness Collective Power to Address Global Poverty

Location: News

The fifth edition of the Finance in Common Summit (FiCS) concluded on Friday in Cape Town, South Africa, with strong calls for global development finance institutions to work together to address poverty and development challenges. South African Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana led the call.

The summit, which was co-sponsored by the African Development Bank and took place alongside the G20 Finance Ministers' Meeting, was themed "Fostering Infrastructure and Finance for Fair and Sustainable Growth."

Godongwana described the meeting as an unprecedented gathering of key financial players, saying: "Your determination and commitment will change the world. Your determination and will have an impact on global poverty.”

The minister linked the summit's goals to South Africa's development trajectory, highlighting the structural reforms the country had undertaken in the electricity, roads, and port sectors, which have opened new investment opportunities to development partners.

African Development Bank Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer, Hassatou Diop N'Sele—one of several senior officials of the Bank Group at FiCS—represented Bank Group President, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina at a meeting on Wednesday organized by the Council of Europe Development Bank. At the meeting, multilateral development banks reaffirmed a shared commitment to maximize their collective impact.

During the G20 meetings of Finance Ministers and central bank governors, Hassatou Diop N'Sele said, “We call on G20 nations to enhance financial commitments, especially for the 17^th replenishment of the African Development Fund, to simplify processes for accessing climate finance, and to create enabling policies that facilitate sustainable capital flows to Africa.”

In her various interventions during FiCS, she discussed the innovative financing tools and initiatives launched by the African Development Bank to leverage resources and mobilize the private sector at scale, including the landmark hybrid capital transactions successfully replicated by other development finance institutions and the Africa Investment Forum.

N'Sele emphasized the urgency for philanthropies and foundations to further strengthen their partnerships with multilateral development banks and to fully embrace innovation to amplify their impact. She also recognized the challenges for expanding climate finance in Africa and reflected on such solutions and platforms as the Alliance for Green Infrastructure in Africa, designed to catalyze bankable, greener infrastructure projects at scale and speed.

The African Development Bank delegation highlighted the progress of Mission 300 (https://apo-opa.co/4bolqQE), an initiative to accelerate access to electricity for 300 million Africans by 2030. The Bank, working with the World Bank and other development finance institutions and private sector partners, has committed $18.2 billion to this effort.

Senior leaders of the Bank stressed the need for urgent action. Nnenna Nwabufo, Bank Group Vice President for Regional Development, Integration and Business Delivery, said: "Africa is not looking for aid, we are looking for partnerships.".

She added: "The time for pilot projects that deliver incremental progress is over. We need investments that enable our nations to take ownership of their development, fostering resilience, self-sufficiency, and sustainable growth that benefits both Africa and the global economy."

Solomon Quaynor, the African Development Bank's Vice President for Private Sector, Infrastructure and Industrialization, called for faster implementation of infrastructure projects. "Africa can no longer sustain infrastructure projects that take seven to 10 years to complete - we must accelerate development to deliver within three years, prioritizing green infrastructure," he said.

The African continent needs $2.7 trillion through 2030 to meet its climate action goals, but receives only 3.6% of all global climate finance, despite its minimal contribution to global emissions.

The African Development Bank's Director General for Southern Africa, Leila Mokaddem, emphasized that Africa's green transition must be inclusive. She said: "With 600 million Africans still without electricity, our transition cannot be about climate goals alone. It must be about jobs, industrialization and economic opportunity. The African Development Bank is supporting this vision through its Jobs for Youth in Africa strategy to create 25 million jobs and equip 50 million young Africans with green economy skills by the end of this year.”

The summit achieved several significant breakthroughs in expanding the scope and impact of development financing. Key outcomes included: the endorsement by G20 finance ministers of public development banks' crucial role in international financial architecture; steps toward setting up frameworks to support cultural industries as valid asset classes; and the formation of a coalition between public development banks and civil society to ensure that development finance serves communities.

CEO of Agence Française de Développement and Chair of the Finance in Common Summit Rémy Rioux noted: "We have made tremendous progress in building public development banks as an asset class through innovation, commitment, and shared values. In times of uncertainty and conflict, we are offering a calm, collective alternative."

"This has truly been an African FiCS," said Boitumelo Mosako, CEO of the Development Bank of Southern Africa. He added: "With 34% of delegates coming from the continent, we have shown that Africa is unstoppable as the second fastest growing region in the world."

Following the Finance in Common Summit, the Fourth Finance for Development Conference will take place in Spain between June and July this year. Being organized by the United Nations and the Spanish government, that summit will feature continuing discussions on reshaping the international financial architecture to better serve development needs.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media contact:
Emeka Anuforo
Principal Regional Communication Officer
Email: media@afdb.org

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

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African Development Bank Group (AfDB)

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3 March 2025

BMA suspends operations at five ports of entry

Location: News

BMA suspends operations at five ports of entry

The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, has announced temporary suspension of operations at five ports of entry due to severe flooding caused by heavy rainfall.

The affected ports are Stockpoort, Makgobistad, Bray, Groblersbridge and Pontdrift.

“At Stockpoort Port of Entry, operations have been suspended as the port is completely surrounded by water. The corridor leading to the port, the operational area, and the bridge after the port have been submerged,” Masiapato said.

“BMA and other law enforcement officials were stranded on the island where the Immigration Office is located, making movement impossible. In response, the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in Limpopo were activated yesterday to evacuate affected employees, including all law enforcement officers, using an EMS helicopter for their safety,” he said.

The Commissioner confirmed that Makgobistad Port of Entry remains temporarily closed due to the flooding of the Molopo River, while Bray and Groblersbridge Ports of Entry have also been flooded, leading to the temporary suspension of operations.

Pontdrift Port of Entry is also affected by the high water levels and operations remain suspended until further notice.

The BMA announced that Derdepoort Port of Entry, water levels have subsided and normal operations have since resumed.

Travelers and commercial operators are advised to use Ramatlabama, Kopfontein, Beitbridge and Skilpadshek ports of entry as alternatives for cross-border movement.

“The BMA continues to closely monitor the weather conditions across all ports of entry and will provide timely updates as the situation develops. We urge travellers and transporters to make alternative arrangements and remain informed through official BMA communication channels,” Masiapato said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 10:39
401 views

3 March 2025

Social Development and BMA to strengthen social services at border posts

Location: News

Social Development and BMA to strengthen social services at border posts

The Department of Social Development and the Border Management Authority (BMA) have committed to working together to address gaps in social service delivery at border crossings.

The two bodies held a high-level strategic meeting focusing on implementing the strategy for the employment of social workers and other social service professionals.

The meeting examined strengthening the partnerships between the two entities to address essential gaps in social service delivery, particularly in cross-border contexts.

The session, chaired by Acting Deputy Director-General for Corporate Support Services Lumka Oliphant, explored avenues for collaboration. This included building synergies between social service professionals and border management officials, recognising the vital role social workers play in protecting vulnerable groups including undocumented migrants, victims of human trafficking, and children in need of care and protection.

Amanda Vokwana, the department’s Director of Organisational Development and HR Planning, outlined the strategy for the employment of social workers and other social service professionals.

The strategy was developed as part of a broader government effort to employ 55 000 social service professionals by 2030, in alignment with the National Development Plan.

“This strategy is not just a vision; it is a collective commitment to building a social service sector that is responsive to the needs of our communities. It seeks to address the employment gaps faced by social workers while ensuring that their skills are effectively utilised in both the public and private sectors,” Vokwana said at Friday's meeting.

This as the country continues to face pressing social ills, including poverty, substance abuse, gender-based violence, child-headed households, and human trafficking, she emphasised.

The strategy provides a framework for recruiting, training, and retaining qualified social service professionals to tackle these issues. It also introduces a funding and deployment model to ensure professionals are placed where they are needed most, including in border management operations.

Vulnerable groups

A significant part of the meeting held in Pretoria focused on a proposal for collaboration between the department and the BMA.
The proposal presented by Oliphant underscored the vital need to integrate social workers into the BMA’s operations, particularly in addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable groups.

Oliphant highlighted that, like the South African National Defence Force, the South African Police Service, and the Department of Correctional Services, the Border Management Authority also requires dedicated social workers.
“Border posts are high-risk environments where social vulnerabilities intersect with security concerns.

“Social workers play an essential role in ensuring that individuals, especially children and victims of trafficking, receive the necessary psychosocial support and interventions in line with legislative frameworks,” she explained.

Beyond assisting vulnerable groups, Oliphant stressed that social workers would also be instrumental in supporting the Border Management Authority’s personnel who are frequently exposed to traumatic and high-pressure situations.

“Border officials often deal with emotionally taxing cases, from human trafficking survivors to desperate asylum seekers. Having in-house social workers would provide much-needed psychological support and trauma counselling, ensuring the well-being of both staff and those they serve.

“With the growing complexities of migration and border-related social issues, it is critical that social service professionals are part of border management processes. Their expertise in psychosocial support, child protection, and victim assistance will enhance the effectiveness of our interventions,” she said.

The Deputy Assistant Commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Peter Mphilo, acknowledged the financial constraints that have hindered the establishment of an independent social services unit within the agency.

While recognising the initial intent to develop internal capacity, he emphasised the necessity of collaboration with the Department of Social Development and provincial stakeholders.

“We appreciate the assistance and cooperation from the provinces. The demand for social services at our border posts far exceeds supply, and this collaboration is critical in addressing those challenges,” Mphilo said.

Infrastructure

He highlighted the need to assess infrastructure requirements at border posts, focusing on interception procedures, interview facilities, and the seamless handover of vulnerable individuals to inland social services.

“Mapping out the entire process, from the port of entry to final social service intervention, is crucial for us to determine what needs to be funded,” he added.

Regarding funding strategies, Mphilo inquired about the role of donor funding and private sector involvement in the employment of social workers.

He stressed the importance of understanding whether private players directly fund social worker employment or contribute to broader organisational initiatives.

Moving forward, the Border Management Authority aims to refine its strategy by aligning funding mechanisms, infrastructure planning, and service delivery models to support social service professionals operating within border management, effectively.
“We need to be guided in terms of requirements. A phased approach, where we employ one or two social workers per region to provide advisory services, would be beneficial.

“Currently, we rely on provinces for support, but their capacity varies, and assistance does not always arrive on time. Having dedicated social workers within border regions would help bridge this gap.”

Mphilo also emphasised the importance of ensuring compliance with legislative frameworks, particularly the Children’s Act, given that many women who cross borders irregularly do so with children.

The presence of social workers at border posts would help facilitate proper child protection interventions.

The authority reaffirmed its commitment to continuing its partnership with the department, benefitting from its support, and actively participating in the broader interdepartmental task team to enhance social service provision within border management operations. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 12:03
348 views

3 March 2025

U20 South Africa: Africa’s ‘moment to lead’

Location: News

U20 South Africa: Africa's 'moment to lead'

City of Tshwane Mayor, Dr Nasiphi Moya, has described the 8th cycle of the Urban 20 (U20) – which is co-chaired by the City of Tshwane and Johannesburg - as a moment for Africa to lead.

The Mayor was delivering remarks at the launch of the 8th cycle of the U20 on Monday.

The U20 is an engagement group of the Group of 20 (G20). South Africa has taken over the Presidency of the G20 for 2025.

“This is our moment to lead. Not just as the City of Tshwane or the City of Johannesburg, but as Africa’s voice in the global urban conversation.

“Through U20 2025, we have the opportunity to shape a future that is just, sustainable, and inclusive. A future where African cities are not just participants but leaders in the global urban agenda.

“As co-hosts of U20 2025, our mission is clear: to ensure that the voice of African cities is heard on the world stage and that the priorities of the Global South are brought into the G20 agenda,” Moya said.

The U20 is a city diplomacy initiative which includes cities from the G20 countries and this year’s theme will be “Cities Leading the Way in Reimagining Global Change”.

Key priorities for this year include:
•    Economic opportunities and financing
•    Climate action and urban resilience
•    Social inclusion and equity
•    Digital transformation and innovation

Engaging citizens

Moya highlighted that although this year’s U20 will build on the foundation laid by last year’s co-chairs São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, “our goal is to ensure that this presidency reflects the realities of African cities and the needs of our communities”.

“U20 is a global initiative, but its success will not be measured in communiqués and declarations alone. Its impact must be felt at a local level.

“This is not just about diplomatic meetings and international cooperation. It is about real economic opportunities, real investment, and real solutions for our people. It is about ensuring that the people of Tshwane and Johannesburg see themselves in this process and feel its benefits.

“We must use this platform not just to advocate for our cities on the global stage, but to showcase their resilience, innovation, and leadership to our own communities,” she said.

Pressing further, Moya emphasised that the impact of the U20 “must extend beyond government officials and politicians” who will gather for the U20 Sherpa Summit and African Mayor’s Assembly in June and the Mayoral Summit in September.

“We are committed to ensuring that the U20 process engages the people it is meant to serve. That means creating spaces for public dialogue and community participation, ensuring that our residents have a voice in shaping urban policies.

“It means fostering connections between local entrepreneurs and global investors, creating pathways for businesses to grow. It means recognising that Tshwane, as a knowledge hub, has world-class institutions that must be part of this conversation.

“Cities are on the frontlines of the climate crisis, economic inequality, and social exclusion. It is time for our voices to be heard at the highest levels of global decision-making,” Moya said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 12:05
328 views

3 March 2025

Department to meet NGOs impacted by freeze on US funding

Location: News

Department to meet NGOs impacted by freeze on US funding

The Department of Health will initiate a consultative process this week with various organisations impacted by the decision of the United States government to freeze and reduce donor funding for HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis (TB) response programmes.

This follows the announcement by the United States President Donald Trump’s administration about significant cuts to foreign aid.

Until recently the United States government’s AIDS fund, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (Pepfar), supported numerous nonprofits in South Africa.

These organisations assisted provincial health departments in getting people tested for HIV and ensuring they received treatment.

While the government provided the medication, Pepfar funded the salaries of essential health workers, including nurses, pharmacists, data clerks, and community health workers, who were responsible for administering the drugs and supporting patients.

According to the department, the meeting with non-government organisations (NGOs) aims to receive first-hand information to understand the extent of the impact of funding cuts to make informed decisions on the proper interventions by government.

“The department values the contribution made by these organisations in the country’s response to HIV/AIDS and TB, hence we remain committed to working with them to develop short-medium to long-term interventions,” said the department.

Meanwhile, the department has urged all people living with HIV who were receiving their life-saving HIV treatment from the sites and centres funded by the United States government through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and Pepfar to continue their treatment at their nearest public health facilities.

“In the meantime, South Africans are also urged to go for regular health screening and testing to know their health status, and prevention measures to protect themselves and their loved ones.

“The department has already communicated with provinces to make necessary preparations and adjustments to accommodate new patients in the treatment programmes in accordance with relevant standard operating guidelines,” the department added. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 14:57
119 views

3 March 2025

Meet Deel Local Payroll, Powered by Payspace: The Next Evolution in Payroll Innovation

Location: Business

PaySpace by Deel is now Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace (www.PaySpace.com)! One year after being acquired by Deel, PaySpace by Deel has officially transitioned into Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace. This milestone isn't just about a name change—it's about why Deel acquired PaySpace in the first place.

PaySpace customers can expect the same powerful payroll platform, now under Deel's global brand. Deel customers can utilise real-time payroll, which means real-time G2N (Gross-to-Net) calculations, shorter cut-off times, and less overall pressure and stress when running payroll across multiple countries.

Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace, formerly known as PaySpace by Deel, is a market leader in payroll technology, with more than 20 years of payroll and HR experience. Its flexible solutions cater to a wide range of clients, including small businesses, enterprises, and payroll service providers. The company has built the most technologically advanced native payroll engine, serving clients in 44 countries across Africa and the Middle East. It has over 15,000 customers, including big brands like Heineken, Coca-Cola, and Puma Sports.

Deel is a trailblazer in global employee and payroll management, enabling its customers to operate in different territories and simplify the complexities of managing employees according to regional financial and legal requirements. With global operations in over 150 countries, Deel simplifies the complexities of international payroll and HR, enabling companies to manage their global workforce efficiently and compliantly. Founded in 2018, Deel is the fastest-growing unicorn in history (a unicorn is a privately owned startup valued at over US$1 billion—Deel is currently valued at over $12 billion), helping businesses hire anyone, anywhere.

PaySpace is now Deel Local Payroll: New Brand, Same Team and Innovation

The acquisition, concluded in 2024, aligns the award-winning Deel Local Payroll team and cloud-native PaySpace platform with Deel's global operations. Deel Local Payroll is an independent subsidiary and a payroll product sold as a self-service option alongside Deel's global payroll product. Deel customers benefit through enhanced, innovative, and more flexible payroll tools for their teams.

The PaySpace calculation engine is now Deel's calculation engine, onto which Deel has localised its Employer Of Record (EOR) and Global Payroll (GP) products across numerous countries, including the UK, South Africa, Canada, and the UAE. Deel will keep localising countries onto this single engine—a unique competitive offering in the payroll market.

Under the Deel brand, Deel Local Payroll will continue to provide the same excellent payroll software and dedicated team that its customers have come to rely on, with the same management team, employees, support, channels, and logistics—only the name has changed. This seamless transition ensures no disruption to existing customer contracts, systems, or processes.

Deel Local Payroll's core cloud-native platform is now the PaySpace platform, an intrinsic part of how Deel delivers payroll services at grassroots levels to customers across the globe.

The PaySpace platform includes groundbreaking features:

Automatic legislative updates that are pushed directly to customers.
Robust integration with dozens of business applications and data sources.
Extensive automation features to remove pressure on payroll teams.
Powerful scale and flexibility that supports changing business requirements.
Secure anywhere, anytime access for multiple users and devices.
Pacey, a WhatsApp employee self-service bot for payroll slips and other information.

"When we founded PaySpace, we set out to create world-class payroll management that served all markets. Taking inspiration and lessons from our customers in Africa and leveraging cutting-edge cloud technologies, we built a true 21st-century payroll service that evolves with the needs of modern companies and their workforces. The rebranding from PaySpace to Deel Local Payroll allows for deeper integration with Deel, positioning us for continued success and growth. It's a positive move, building on the strong foundation we've already established," says Bruce van Wyk, CEO at Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace.

Deel's acquisition of Payspace, now Deel Local Payroll, and the PaySpace platform is a significant win for customers. It also serves as a testament to the resilience and flexibility of African tech. Deel, Deel Local Payroll, and the PaySpace platform are building bright futures for their customers as they continue to innovate and provide world-class payroll solutions built to simplify and enhance payroll at every level.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of PaySpace.

Media contact:
Victoria Lindsay
victoria@innocomm.co.za

About Deel Local Payroll:
Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace, revolutionises payroll management. It offers online, multi-country payroll and HR management for businesses from start-ups through to enterprise in over 40 African countries, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and Brazil.

Cloud-native, Deel Local Payroll, is scalable, configurable, highly secure, and easy-to-use—delivering anytime, anywhere access. It features payroll automation, self-service features, automatic legislation and feature updates, customised reporting, and more.

Since 2024, Deel Local Payroll has been part of Deel, operating as an independent subsidiary, serving its customers through the PaySpace platform.

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3 March 2025

‘Busta’ Rapoo: Leading the Lions in the Hollywoodbets Pro Series With Passion and Performance

Location: Sport

JOHANNESBURG: A lively presence within the DP World Lions setup, captain and spinner Kgomotso Rapoo continues to lead from the front,...

3 March 2025

Report on Hazelmere Dam water release dismissed

Location: News

Report on Hazelmere Dam water release dismissed

UMngeni-uThukela Water has dismissed a video circulating suggesting that water will be released from the Hazelmere Dam without any prior warning being issued to communities living in the vicinity of the dam.

In a statement issued on Monday, uMngeni-uThukela Water spokesperson, Siyabonga Maphumulo, said the entity has not effected a release of water from the Hazelmere Dam, as the video suggested on Sunday, 2 March 2025.

“The dam is currently overflowing due to the recent heavy rains in parts of KwaZulu-Natal that have pushed up dam levels to 102%.

“In this regard, uMngeni-uThukela Water issued a media statement on Friday, 28 February 2025, wherein it cautioned communities living downstream of the dam to practice extra caution, as the dam overflow would lead to the uMdloti River swelling,” Maphumulo said.

uMngeni-uThukela Water will continue to monitor the Hazelmere Dam, and in the event that its level gets to 105%, the entity will consider a water release.

Maphumulo emphasised that in the event of a water release, uMngeni-uThukela Water, guided by its operating protocols, would inform the public and all affected stakeholders before effecting the water release.

“As the water levels at the Hazelmere Dam levels have not reached 105% mark, uMngeni[1]uThukela Water has no immediate plans of releasing water via its emergency scours. UMngeni-uThukela Water would therefore like to allay any public fears or concerns about water releases.

“We would also like to again remind the public to practice vigilance around the Umdloti River due to the dam overflow,” Maphumulo said.

Floods

Addressing the media on Sunday, KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi announced that more than 20 people have lost their lives as heavy rains continue to wreak havoc in the province.

“We have lost more than 20 people in the last two months and we are continuing to count the cost, especially the destruction of public infrastructure such a roads, clinics and access to homes,” Buthelezi said.

The MEC urged residents in low-lying areas to seek shelter on higher ground and appealed to people in the province to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, as roads in eThekwini, are already flooded.

“We strongly urge residents in low-lying areas, and those who are near riverbanks, to immediately move away and seek shelter on higher ground. Residents are also advised to avoid all non-essential travel,” the MEC said.

More rain expected

Meanwhile, the South African Weather Service has reported that isolated showers and thundershowers expected over the most parts of the country, on Tuesday and Wednesday, with scattered over the south-eastern areas, as well as the western parts of the Northern Cape on Tuesday.

The forecaster has also issued an alert level 5 for eThekwini and other four KwaZulu-Natal areas, including Ray Nkonyeni, Mkhambathini, UMzumbe and Umdoni Local Municipalities.

"Take immediate action to ensure your safety. Stay indoors, avoid travel and follow evacuation instructions, if necessary,” the weather service said in a statement on Monday. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 15:15
56 views

3 March 2025

Mpumalanga Premier appoints new DG

Location: News

Mpumalanga Premier appoints new DG

The Mpumalanga Premier, Mandla Ndlovu, has welcomed Maggie Skhosana as the newly appointed Director-General in the Office of the Premier.

Skhosana assumed her responsibilities on Monday. She has a wealth of experience as a government administrator.

Until recently, she served as a Municipal Manager at the Nkangala District Municipality, based in Middelburg, where she spearheaded clean audit achievements.

“Skhosana’s achievements are well documented. She has set a record of achieving clean audits at the District. This experience will work in our favour in our determination to increase the number of departments and municipalities with similar achievements in the province,” Ndlovu said.

Skhosana said her tenure would be characterised by guiding the seventh administration to achieve the key priorities of driving an inclusive growth and job creation, tackling the high cost of living and poverty, as well as building a capable, ethical and developmental state.

She said that her ideology of doing more and talking less will be the anchor point of her commitment.

The Premier further applauded Peter Nyoni, the Deputy Director-General for Institutional Development, for his sterling role during his tenure as Acting Director General.

“Your leadership experience during the transition period is highly appreciated. You brought the much-needed stability in a space that is complex, and guided the entire Provincial Government towards a good performance,” the Premier said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 14:57
39 views

3 March 2025

US Funding Cut Ends Vital HIV Programme for Orphans

Location: News

In some parts of the country HIV testing was dependent on US money, so testing has just stopped

3 March 2025

G20 meeting highlights the role of science in tackling climate change

Location: News

G20 meeting highlights the role of science in tackling climate change

Rising global temperatures, extended droughts, and the growing spread of disease are some of the severe impacts of climate change, according to the President of the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) Council, Professor Thokozani Majozi.

Speaking at a recent Science20 (S20) meeting in Pretoria, Majozi noted that no region is immune to these effects, which range from wildfires in the Americas and Australia to catastrophic flooding in Europe and Asia.

“Climate change does not recognise national boundaries, making international scientific cooperation not just beneficial but essential,” he said.

The meeting highlighted the urgent challenge of climate change.

“This issue transcends borders, economies, and political systems. The evidence is unequivocal: our climate is changing at an unprecedented rate due to human activities,” the Professor warned.

S20 is the official engagement group for science academies within the Group of Twenty (G20) to foster science-based dialogue and provide policy advice.

Established in 2017, its mission is to promote scientific cooperation and ensure that scientific perspectives influence G20 decisions on global challenges.

The G20 is an international forum of both developing and developed countries that seeks to find solutions to global economic and financial issues.

Under South Africa’s G20 Presidency, three foundational themes shape political and scientific discussions: solidarity, equality, and sustainable development.

He outlined the key responsibilities of the scientific community, which include advancing our understanding of climate systems and their effects on human health and wellbeing.

The Professor also urged his colleagues to communicate complex scientific findings in ways that can inform both policymakers and the public. In addition, he emphasised the importance of fostering collaboration across natural sciences, social sciences, and the humanities.

Majozi believes in nurturing the next generation of scientists who are equipped to address these complex challenges, and he advocated for the integration of indigenous and local knowledge systems with traditional scientific approaches.
“We are not merely repositories of knowledge but active participants in shaping how that knowledge is applied to real-world challenges,” he added.

Led by the ASSAf, this year’s S20 gathering is particularly significant, as it marks the first time the G20 is hosted on the African continent.

The Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, addressed the meeting virtually and called for global scientific cooperation and evidence-based policymaking.

Nzimande emphasised the connection between the S20 theme, “Climate change and well-being,” and South Africa’s overarching G20 theme of “Solidarity, equality, and sustainability.”

“These themes do not merely serve as reminders of the urgent need for science-driven policy responses to challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and global inequality,” he said.

“They also highlight that today’s fundamental challenges are interconnected, demanding multidisciplinary approaches, collaboration, and decisive science-based action.”

Priorities and skills development

Nzimande outlined key science, technology, and innovation priorities that will define South Africa’s G20 leadership.

These include, among other initiatives, enhancing our capacity for pandemic preparedness; promoting research and development in emerging technologies, especially artificial intelligence; and integrating these technologies into essential economic sectors such as energy, agriculture, mining, health, and the digital economy.

It also it involves developing critical and advanced skills, including through the Presidential PhD Programme.

The Minister stressed the crucial role of the S20 meeting in shaping the broader G20 Research and Innovation Working Group discussions, which will culminate in a ministerial meeting in September 2025.

President of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences, Professor Helena Nader, applauded South Africa for highlighting the topic of climate change and wellbeing, especially considering recent global floods and storms.

Meanwhile, the Executive Director of the United States National Academies Policy and Global Affairs Division, Dr Vaughan Turekian, praised G20 members’ long history of collaboration and expressed his desire for it to expand through the S20. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 12:45
43 views

3 March 2025

Social Development hosts engagement session on the FATF’s Recommendation 8

Location: News

Social Development hosts engagement session on the FATF’s Recommendation 8

As part of South Africa’s ongoing measures to fully implement the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the Department of Social Development is hosting a multi-stakeholder engagement in Kempton Park.

“The objective of the multi-stakeholder engagement is to enhance government, NPOs [non-profit organisations] and key partners’ understanding and requirements of the FATF standards to combat money laundering and terror financing and the implementation of effective national measures to mitigate the risks.

“The fight against money laundering and terrorist financing requires a collective national effort and collaboration among key stakeholders. As the registrar and custodian of the NPO Act (Act No. 71 of 1997, as amended through the General Laws Amendment Act No. 22 of 2022), one of Social Development’s strategic goals is the promotion of strategic partnerships with NPOs to deliver services to communities,” the department said of the three-day engagement that begins today.

The FATF is the international standard-setting body that oversees global compliance with anti-money laundering rules.

With South Africa due to report back to FATF on the remaining deficiencies in its fifth-round mutual evaluation in June this year, the engagement will bring together government, NPOS, development agencies, donors, private sector, law enforcement agencies and financial institutions.

Stakeholders will focus on Recommendation 8 of the FATF, which aims to protect NPOs from potential terrorist financing and money laundering abuse through effective implementation of risk-based measures.

The formal programme at the three-day engagement will feature presentations, case studies and emerging best practices by experts from key financial institutions and regulators, including the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), South African Revenue Service (SARS), Chartered Institute for Business Accountants (CIBA, National Lotteries Commission and the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC).

These will highlight trends and overview of national measures to combat money laundering and terror financing, as well as the important role of NPOs in combating money laundering and terror financing in South Africa.

The multi-stakeholder engagement builds on measures already underway as South Africa works to finalise outstanding action items from FATF’s recommendations.

South Africa is now deemed to have addressed or largely addressed 20 of the 22 action items in its Action Plan, leaving two items to be addressed in the next reporting period that runs from March 2025 to June 2025. This would enable South Africa to be considered for delisting from the FATF grey list in October 2025.

This as the FATF grey listed South Africa at its February 2023 plenary meeting held in Paris. It developed an Action Plan with 22 Action items linked to the eight strategic deficiencies identified in the country’s anti-money laundering and combating of financial terrorism regime.

Deregistration

This week’s gathering comes at the department has embarked on deregistration of non-compliant NPOs, with 203 279 organisations at the risk of deregistration for failure to comply with the requirements to submit annual reports as per the provisions of section 18 (1) of the Non-Profit Organisations Act (Act No. 71 of 1997, as amended through the General Laws Amendment Act 22 of 2022).
READ | Social Development issues notices of non-compliance to NPOs

The engagement session which is being held at the Premier Hotel OR Tambo will culminate in the adoption of a declaration on combating money laundering and terror financing in South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 11:28
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3 March 2025

Government activities for the week 03 – 07 March 2025

Location: News

Government activities for the week 03 – 07 March 2025

On Monday, 03 March, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in strategic partnership with the North West University’s Mahikeng Campus, is set to officially launch the Agri-Hub.

On Tuesday, 04 March, the Commission for Gender Equality in KwaZulu-Natal will hold a men’s engagement conference in collaboration with the men’s sector and other stakeholders to address gender-based violence and promote collaborative solutions across communities.

Also on Tuesday, the Department of Social Development will host a multi-stakeholder engagement on implementation of Recommendation 8 of the Financial Action Task Force (3-5 March).

On Wednesday, 05 March, Minister Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi and Deputy Minister Pinky Kekana lead the 1 st Technical Meeting of the Anti-Corruption Working Group (3-5 March).

On Thursday, 06 March, President Cyril Ramaphosa and the National Cabinet will visit the Gauteng Executive Council and the City of Johannesburg (6-7 March).

Friday, 07 March, no confirmed events.

Neo
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 11:29
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