Sustainability

19 March 2024

Emphasis placed on investing in climate-resilient infrastructure projects

Location: News

Emphasis placed on investing in climate-resilient infrastructure projects

While South Africa has taken meaningful steps to invest in infrastructure projects, Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr David Masondo, says the fiscus cannot afford to financially support the amount of investment required for climate-resilient infrastructure.

“We therefore need to discuss other innovative financing mechanisms such as green bonds and carbon credit to fund these climate-resilient infrastructure projects,” Masondo said on Monday in Johannesburg.

He made these remarks during the second in a series of Southern Africa – Towards Inclusive Economic Development (SA-TIED) policy dialogues entitled “Financing infrastructure development in the context of climate change”.

“In South Africa, we feel the negative impact of climate change in important sectors such as agriculture, water, and energy. The frequency of natural disasters and the results thereof are felt every day in our country.

“Investments in renewable energy sources, water conservation systems, and sustainable urban development are key to mitigating and adapting to climate impacts,” the Deputy Minister said.

Masondo said the Infrastructure Fund is a testament to South Africa’s commitment to stimulating infrastructure investment and blending public and private financing to build a better, more sustainable future.

“The Infrastructure Fund stands out as a pivotal move, designed to stimulate investment across various critical sectors. This approach seeks to mobilise public and private resources, mitigate risks for private investors and foster an environment where collaborative financing models can thrive.

“Such measures are part of a broader effort to ensure that infrastructure development not only supports South Africa's immediate economic needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term resilience and progress.

“Yes, challenges exist such as securing funding. However, ensuring sustainability, and integrating the latest technologies are other additional challenges. These challenges should be treated as opportunities for innovation and forging robust public-private partnerships. This is also an opportunity for leveraging the power of technology in our infrastructure development goals,” Masondo said.

He said the groundbreaking research produced by the SA-TIED program has shed light on critical areas like water, and energy, and the broader connections between them.

“It is this type of research that directly shapes our infrastructure strategies, informing decisions to maximise impact and create the conditions for sustainable growth. The research informs our policy decision-making. It is this type of research that directly shapes our infrastructure strategies, informing decisions to maximize impact and create the conditions for sustainable growth,” the Deputy Minister said.

He said infrastructure development is the cornerstone of any thriving economy.

“Infrastructure fuels productivity (e.g. people arrive late to work because public transport is poor). Infrastructure also enhances the quality of life for our citizens (clean air, and clean water are important for our health) and lays the foundation for long-term growth.

“Our government recognises this. We have made significant investments in critical infrastructure. These investments are not just about roads and bridges. They are also about creating jobs, reducing poverty, and making South Africa a competitive player in the global economy,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 09:36

611 views

19 March 2024

Less talk, more action! South African creatives are designing for social impact

Location: MyPR

Design is a powerful tool for change. As part of reshaping the industry’s paradigms, this year’s theme for Decorex Africa, the continent’s leading decor and design showcase, is Designing for Impact. It marks a commitment to thinking beyond traditional boundaries and identifying the sweet spot that lies at the intersection of creativity, commercial viability and …

18 March 2024

SANRAL invests R2 billion in Eastern Cape road maintenance

Location: News

SANRAL invests R2 billion in Eastern Cape road maintenance

The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) is expected to inject close to R2 billion into the Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape when it implements its road maintenance projects over the next three years.

The roads agency said it will implement two road infrastructure development projects in the municipality, which include the road improvements of the R61 National Road between All Saints to Bayiza, as well as road improvements of the R61 National Road between Qumanco and eNgcobo.

The scope of work on these projects will entail the upgrading of roads, bridges and culverts and improving road safety in the area.

SANRAL has set aside a minimum of 30% of the project value to be subcontracted to SMMEs and a minimum of 8% of the project value will be set aside for local labour.

The construction tender closed on 8 March this year, and the projects are envisaged to take place over three years once a contractor is appointed.

SANRAL Southern Region’s Stakeholder Coordinator Welekazi Ndika said project liaison committees (PLCs) would be established to ensure better communication and transparency on SANRAL projects, as well as ensuring that work done on projects is seamless.

“PLCs will assist in creating a platform for project liaison, works execution, subcontracting and facilitating employment opportunities for local community members. These include young people, women, people with disabilities and military veterans. Local subcontractors and communities must benefit from our projects, and we value transparency with communities on these contracts,” Ndika said.

While highlighting the country’s high unemployment rate among the youth, Ndika implored the youth to participate in PLC structures.

SANRAL Southern Region’s Transformation Unit Zenande Mpondo said the roads agency will train and develop Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMME) contractors to enhance their business acumen and tendering skills.

“All small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) will be required to undertake assessment and class activities during the training, and they will have to demonstrate competence to be awarded the unit standard. The unit standards are from the National Certificate: Construction Contracting NQF 2. These unit standards are a skills programme that will have a credit value towards the National Certificate,” Mpondo said.

She mentioned that it is SANRAL’s commitment to ensure that SMMEs are assisted with information on tenders, as well as on development opportunities, ensuring that they can participate in SANRAL projects.

“Through our Supplier Development Desk at SANRAL, we are available to manage incoming queries from our Transformation Portal, telephonic queries, emails, as well as walk-ins. The desk also advises on upcoming training, workshops and transformation sessions that we host. We also offer guidelines for SMMEs on how to tender on the portal. This is just one of our ongoing efforts to ensure that we improve interaction with SMMEs,” Mpondo said.

SANRAL currently manages a road network of 5 334km in the Eastern Cape. The roads agency has recently taken over several roads in the province, and this will increase its road network to 5 600km in the Eastern Cape.

SANRAL invested over R28 billion in the Eastern Cape between 2014 and 2022, significantly boosting economic development and job creation.

In line with its strategic intent to ensure sustainability of the construction industry, SANRAL intends to spend just over R55 billion between April this year and March 2027. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 03/18/2024 - 14:04

829 views

17 March 2024

Mineral Resources and Energy committee chair welcomes passing of ERA Bill

Location: News

Mineral Resources and Energy committee chair welcomes passing of ERA Bill

The chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Mineral Resources and Energy, Sahlulele Luzipo, has welcomed the passing of the Electricity Regulations and Amendment (ERA) Bill by the National Assembly (NA).

In a statement, Luzipo said the Bill is a product of the collective wisdom of everyone who participated in the process, including the public hearings held in all nine provinces and those who made written submissions.

The provincial public hearings were held from 26 September 2023 to 29 January 2024 and the majority of those who participated supported the Bill.

The Bill seeks to amend the Electricity Regulation Act of 2006 and once enacted into law, it will enable the transformation of the country’s electricity sector to ensure electricity sustainability, supply and affordability.

READ | National Assembly passes Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill

“It proposes an end to the monopoly-driven market and allows competition through key legislative reforms. This move is underscored in the Department of Public Enterprises’ 2019 Roadmap for Eskom in a Reformed Electricity Supply Industry.

“The Bill, however, does not propose the privatisation of Eskom, which the majority of participants in the public hearings said they opposed,” the statement read.

Furthermore, the Bill proposes the establishment, within five years, of a State-owned Transmission System Operator (TSO) that is legally distinct from Eskom; the expansion and alignment of the powers of the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) to regulate the competitive market and the empowerment of NERSA to set and approve tariffs and prices, as well as regulate the participation of independent power producers (IPPs), among other things.

In the interim, it authorises a ring-fenced subsidiary of Eskom Holdings, in the form of the National Transmission Company of South Africa, or NTCSA, to fulfil the functions of the TSO.

The TSO is an enabler of a competitive market. Therefore, the functions of the TSO are grid ownership and operation, system operation, market operation, and the creation of a Central Purchasing Agency that will take care of the legacy and vesting contracts.

“I am happy that the NA has passed the Bill that is responding to the people’s concerns about the need for setting parameters on the competitive behaviour of IPPs [independent power producers], as this will ensure that the sector delivers sustainable electricity at competitive prices,” Luzipo said.

According to Luzipo, this is important not only for competition but also because it addresses global commitments around climate change issues with regards to the country’s transition within the context of the Just Energy Transition framework. This is because the participation of multiple players will result in diverse electricity generation technologies, such as renewable energy.

“It is anticipated that, in the long-term, the Bill will drive down the cost of electricity generation, which will be passed on to consumers in the form of lower electricity bills.

“Further, new investment in the industry will bring new technologies and multi-year capital programmes that will enable new local industries and local businesses to empower youth and create new-age skills and digital capabilities because individuals who generate electricity for their use will be allowed to sell surplus to the government,” Luzipo said.

The ERA Bill criminalises the unlawful destruction and damage of electricity infrastructure, inclusive of transmission, distribution or generation equipment and infrastructure.

This provision ensures that cable theft and unlawful electricity damage, amongst other things, are decisively addressed.
The Bill states that if a person is convicted of these offences, a fine not exceeding R1 million will be imposed.

If a person is found guilty of unlawful trading of the electricity infrastructure as listed above, a fine not exceeding R5 million will be charged, or imprisonment not exceeding 10 years, or both such a fine and imprisonment.

Luzipo said that the committee intends for the Bill to not only address the immediate electricity challenges and load shedding but also to enable long-term electricity supply for businesses and the broader society.

He thanked all political parties that supported the Bill in the NA and for putting the interest of the country and its citizens ahead of their political interests in the forthcoming elections.

Luzipo further thanked members of the committee and the staff for their dedication. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Sun, 03/17/2024 - 12:14

81 views

15 March 2024

Portfolio Committee welcomes SAA, Takatso deal announcement

Location: News

Portfolio Committee welcomes SAA, Takatso deal announcement

Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises has welcomed the announcement of the termination of the South African Airways (SAA) and Takatso Consortium deal.

The collapse of the deal was initially announced by Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan on Wednesday evening and confirmed by Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni during a post Cabinet media briefing on Thursday.

Committee chairperson, Khaya Magaxa, said the committee remains committed to fostering transparency in the aviation sector.

“We welcome the decision by Cabinet to terminate the Takatso Consortium deal. This allows us to re-evaluate and refine the processes we have been undertaking to ensure the best outcomes for our South African Airways. We remain committed to promoting transparency and accountability in the sector.

“We remain committed to promoting transparency and accountability in the sector, as we continue with the investigation, as instructed by the Office of the Speaker. Our aim is to uncover the truth and ensure that the best interests of the public are protected,” Magaxa said.

A statement by the committee said the termination “aligns with the committee's objective of safeguarding the public interest” and will give the airline space to evaluate other options.

“The committee acknowledges the importance of a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of any proposed partnership or agreement involving government as a shareholder in State-owned companies. This termination allows for further scrutiny and exploration of alternative options that will ensure the sustainability and growth of South African Airways.

“The committee remains dedicated to promoting good governance, transparency and accountability within the public enterprises sector. The committee will closely monitor the developments following the termination of the Takatso deal, and will actively engage with relevant stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes for the sector and the public at large,” the committee said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 03/15/2024 - 09:29

585 views

14 March 2024

Committee Welcomes Cabinet’s Termination of Takatso Consortium Deal

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises welcomes the Cabinet announcement terminating the Takatso Consortium deal.

The committee regards this decision as an important development given its ongoing processes on the matter. The committee has been engaged in examining and evaluating the proposed Takatso deal, in the interests of promoting transparency and accountability, and with the best interests of the public in all matters relating to the deal.

Committee chairperson Mr Khaya Magaxa said: “We welcome the decision by the Cabinet to terminate the Takatso Consortium deal. This allows us to re-evaluate and refine the processes we have been undertaking to ensure the best outcomes for our South African Airways. We remain committed to promoting transparency and accountability in the sector.”

The Cabinet's termination of the deal aligns with the committee's objective of safeguarding the public interest. The committee acknowledges the importance of a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of any proposed partnership or agreement involving government as a shareholder in state-owned companies. This termination allows for further scrutiny and exploration of alternative options that will ensure the sustainability and growth of South African Airways.

At the time of the termination of the contract, the Office of the Speaker of the National Assembly instructed the committee to initiate an investigation based on a petition brought by the former Director-General of the Department of Public Enterprises, Mr Kgathatso Tlhakudi. The petition alleges misconduct on the part of Minister Pravin Gordhan and led to Mr Tlhakudi's expulsion from the department. The Office of the Speaker mandated the committee Chairperson to investigate the allegations relating to the South African Airways transaction.

The committee remains dedicated to promoting good governance, transparency and accountability within the public enterprises sector. The committee will closely monitor the developments following the termination of the Takatso deal and will actively engage with relevant stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes for the sector and the public at large.

Mr Magaxa said: “We remain committed to promoting transparency and accountability in the sector as we continue with the investigation, as instructed by the Office of the Speaker. Our aim is to uncover the truth and ensure that the best interests of the public are protected.”

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

14 March 2024

SAA, Takatso deal collapses

Location: News

SAA, Takatso deal collapses

Following three years of negotiation, Minister of Public Enterprises Pravin Gordhan has announced the termination of negotiations for the transaction to sell 51% of South African Airways (SAA) to the Takatso Consortium.

The collapse of the negotiations – which put an end to the sale to the equity partner – was announced during a media briefing by the Minister in Cape Town on Wednesday evening.

Gordhan explained that while three years ago, a valuation of SAA’s business and assets had been reached, circumstances have now changed – prompting a disagreement on the revised transaction structure.

Three years ago, the airline had undergone business rescue, battled through being grounded and was facing serious challenges following the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Late last year, clearly, we had a different market, we had a different economy, and we had a different flying public in terms of numbers of people that were flying and a new valuation was done.

“And the new valuation…the business came out now at a value of R1 billion and the property went up to about R5.5 billion which meant that any negotiations on this transaction would have to take into account the new valuations that have emerged,” he said.

The Minister revealed that negotiations continued “for the latter part of last year” and since this year began.

“However, we came to a point where whilst there was meeting of minds…on some of the issues, there were other issues on which there was no meeting of minds.

“So late last week, there was agreement that in terms of a clause in the old sale and purchase agreement, whereby mutual consent, this transaction could be terminated. That clause was put into action and both parties have agreed – after we enquired about the status of the negotiation – that there was no clear path forward as far as the transaction with Takatso is concerned.”

Gordhan insisted that because SAA remains a public entity:

Cognisance must be placed on its growth over the past five years;
Fair value must be placed on the sale of the 51% stake in the airline;
and the process to sell the shares must ensure that SAA is left in a “more sustainable condition than it was in 2019”.

He added that despite the collapse of the deal, the future remains bright for the airline and dismissed any notions that it will rely on government bailouts going forward.

“We are convinced, in terms of the numbers available to us, that it can sustain itself for the next year to 18 months and there are various, other ways in which immediate financing can be obtained.

“But at no stage, in the course of the months that come, will SAA get money from the fiscus. It must run its operations as efficiently as it can and as profitably as it can and sustain itself,” he said.

READ | Strategic Equity Partnership for SAA aimed at saving airline: Gordhan

Moving forward

Gordhan assured employees of the state-owned airline that their jobs are currently not in danger as a result of the collapse of the deal.

“So the message to the SAA staff…is that you don’t worry about your jobs, you don’t worry about the future of your families, that we will ensure that we work with the board and management…to continue to support the sustainability of SAA and to ensure that the corporate plan that has been developed by SAA is further strengthened,” he said.

READ | SAA officially relaunched

The Minister added that the corporate plan is well fleshed out and projects a growth in the airline.

“That corporate plan actually entails the gradual growth in the number of routes that SAA will take up in the course of the next few years. Currently, it has about 19 routes and that will grow up to 40 routes in a five year period.

“Similarly, it will have the capacity to lease more aircraft, both for domestic use, use within the continent and for inter-continental flights as well.

“All of these plans will be rigorously examined with the necessary aviation expertise to ensure that jobs are secure, that the airline is secure and that there is a future for SAA and its flag to be seen continuously within the country, within the continent and across continents as well,” Gordhan said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 03/14/2024 - 10:05

131 views

14 March 2024

FAW Trucks SA unveils the JK6 FD/FT variant, reinforcing its position as an industry pioneer

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg, March — FAW Trucks SA, a force in global commercial vehicle manufacturing, proudly announces the introduction launch of the new generation JK6 FD/FT variant. This strategic introduction underscores the company’s steadfast commitment to advancing technology and performance in the commercial transport sector. With a rich history dating back to its establishment in South Africa …

13 March 2024

A Second Life For Your Used Nespresso Capsule This Global Recycling Day and Every Day

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg, South Africa: Global Recycling Day is celebrated on the 18th of March every year. Global Recycling Day was created in 2018 to help recognise and celebrate the important role that recycling plays in preserving our precious primary resources and securing the future of our planet. It is a day for the world to come …

12 March 2024

Local Government Association, South African Local Government Association (SALGA) Calls for Adequate Funding

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) has called for more funding to improve the financial sustainability of municipalities. SALGA briefed the Standing Committee on Appropriations on the 2024 Budget and the Division of Revenue as part of the Money Bills and Related Matters Act on Tuesday, 12 March.

SALGA welcomed the increased allocation of R177 billion to local government. However, they argued that this still did not address the broader issue of inadequate funding at the local level. Ms Lerato Phasha, the representative from SALGA, highlighted the struggles many local municipalities face in covering their expenditures due to high levels of unemployment, poverty, and reluctance to pay for services by communities.

According to SALGA, the R484 million in conditional grants allocated for the financial year 2024/25 was inadequate considering the substantial infrastructure backlogs in municipalities. The organisation called for more funding for local government to address the infrastructure backlogs and cover expenditures in the face of high unemployment rates and poverty levels.

The committee, in response, recommended public-private partnerships with local spheres of government. This approach would involve redirecting revenue from companies operating in provinces toward the areas they operate in and in so doing, they contribute to local investment and development.

The committee also suggested that the local government sphere should not solely rely on the national government but should work towards revitalising and mobilising local businesses to attract local investment. By doing this, municipalities can strengthen their revenue streams and ultimately improve the quality of services they provide to communities. The committee told SALGA that a comprehensive strategy would help alleviate the financial burdens of municipalities and enable them to address their infrastructure backlogs more effectively.

Meanwhile, SALGA also welcomed the rollout of smart meters to the tune of R2 billion for its members in the local government sphere. However, SALGA wants all member municipalities to benefit from this rollout without restricting it to defaulting municipalities that fall under the Eskom debt relief package.

According to SALGA, the rollout should not be left to municipalities alone, but there should be end-to-end support until municipalities can run the installation themselves.

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

10 March 2024

Financing Energy Projects: Legal Considerations and Strategies

Location: MyPR

In an era where sustainable energy is not just a preference but a necessity, South Africa stands on the brink of significant energy transitions. This necessitates a robust legal framework and solid financing strategies to effectively navigate the complexities of energy project development. In this article we examine critical legal considerations and strategies pivotal to …

10 March 2024

Eco-Wisdom: Proven, Implementable Strategies to Living Green

Location: MyPR

The earth’s natural resources such as clean water, fossil fuels, and even arable land, are finite. This is why, if we are to preserve them for future generations, we have to use these resources efficiently and responsibly. Orrin Cottle, CEO of Brahman Hills, home to spectacular views and luxurious 4- and 5-star accommodation in the …

7 March 2024

Mchunu continues to engage on Joburg City water challenges

Location: News

Mchunu continues to engage on Joburg City water challenges

Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu continues to engage with the City of Johannesburg on measures to ensure water supply sustainability.

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) said a meeting was convened this week, where a detailed presentation was made by Deputy Director-General for Water and Sanitation Services Management, Dr Risimati Mathye.

The meeting was attended by the city’s Acting Executive Mayor Loyiso Masuku, Joburg Water and the Rand Water Board, amongst others.

Mathye said the city's total average water supply/volume is 1 686 097 kilo litres per day and supplies a population of 5 866 550.

“Notwithstanding its Blue Drop score of 98.1% in 2023, the City of Johannesburg loses 46.1% of the water supplied to it by Rand Water,” Mathye said.

Other challenges noted include an increase in the frequency of water main bursts, the reduction of water storage capacity due to leaking and isolation of reservoirs, and water theft via illegal connections in informal settlements, among others.

Mchunu said the persistent water supply challenges in Johannesburg are of great concern and negatively reflect on all the stakeholders in the sector.

“It requires us to continue engaging on measures to completely address them. The projects required are seemingly easily identifiable, but there are funding constraints that we need to address and resolve," the Minister said.

A follow-up meeting has been scheduled for 18 March 2024.

Working visit to Greater Kokstad

Meanwhile, Mchunu will on Friday embark on a working visit to Greater Kokstad in the Harry Gwala District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal to assess the status of water and sanitation.

The department said during the visit, Mchunu will hand over the contractor for the raising of the Kempsdale Dam Wall and the construction of a pump station, which is envisaged to augment water supply capacity in areas including Kokstad Town, Kokstad C-Max Prison, Shayamoya and Bhongweni.

“Approximately 69 146 people are expected to benefit upon the completion of this project,” the department said in a statement.

After the handing over of the contractor, Mchunu will hold a meeting with various stakeholders and the community of Kokstad to solicit their views, concerns and comments on the state of water and sanitation provision in the area.

The community engagement will be held at Bhongweni Youth Centre in Kokstad.

The Minister will be accompanied by Harry Gwala District Municipality Mayor Zamo Nxumalo, as well as local municipality mayors and traditional authorities. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 03/07/2024 - 09:55

753 views

7 March 2024

Turning Trash into Trees: Oricol and Food & Trees for Africa Celebrate a Decade of Sustainable Partnership

Location: MyPR

04 March 2024 – Food & Trees for Africa and Oricol Environmental Services (Oricol) celebrate a decade-long partnership dedicated to environmental sustainability and community development. This long-term collaboration, spanning 10 years, has seen significant strides in promoting green initiatives and enhancing food security across South Africa. Oricol, a leader in waste management and environmental solutions, …

6 March 2024

African Polystyrene Alliance Launch Event: Paving The Way For A Sustainable And Circular PS Economy

Location: MyPR

The African Polystyrene Industry Alliance (APIA), a pioneering non-profit industry body, is thrilled to announce its official launch event scheduled for Thursday, 29 February 2024, at the Plastics SA office in Midrand. The event will mark a significant milestone in the polystyrene industry’s journey towards sustainability, circular economy practices, and responsible production. As an industry …

6 March 2024

Discover RS Imports’ Fan Collection

Location: MyPR

As temperatures rise and the heat of summer approaches, keeping cool becomes a top priority for many. Whether you’re looking to beat the heat in your home, office, or outdoor space, having a reliable fan can make all the difference in staying comfortable and refreshed. At RS Imports, we understand the importance of quality fans …

5 March 2024

Unlock Savings: Embrace the Benefits of Unboxed Deals with RS Imports

Location: MyPR

In the world of retail, the term “unboxed deals” often raises eyebrows and piques curiosity. What exactly are unboxed deals, and why are they gaining popularity among savvy shoppers? At RS Imports, we’re here to demystify the concept and shed light on the benefits of embracing unboxed deals for your shopping needs. What Are Unboxed …

3 March 2024

Small Business Development to host Global Entrepreneurship Congress

Location: News

Small Business Development to host Global Entrepreneurship Congress

Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams will host the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC+Africa) in Cape Town from 13 - 14 March.

The Department of Small Business Development has partnered with 22 on Sloane and other public and private sector players, who are committed to advancing entrepreneurial activity on the continent, to stage GEC+Africa 2024.

GEC+Africa is a gathering of entrepreneurs, thought leaders and practitioners, who have become part of the global movement that advances entrepreneurship as a vehicle for building economies and expanding access to a better life for all.

Over 1 500 delegates from more than 50 African nations are expected to participate during the congress. This will include start-ups; small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs); investors; policymakers and organisations that support entrepreneurship development.

GEC+Africa will seek to achieve some of the following objectives:

- Support the development of innovative start-ups and SMMEs in Africa.

- Create an enabling environment for African entrepreneurs to create jobs.

- Create market linkages for African start-ups and SMMEs.

- Support the development of a credible global investor pipeline that will invest in African start-ups and SMMEs.

- Establish a strong GEC-affiliated organisation in each African country to build and strengthen its entrepreneurship ecosystem.

According to the Department of Small Business Development, GEC+Africa will be a platform to showcase the significant progress the country has made in producing some of the most innovative and successful entrepreneurs on the continent.

“South Africa has one of the most mature start-up ecosystems in Africa, with stronger supporting institutions,” the department said in a statement.

“The Department of Small Business Development will continue to work with its partners to create an enabling environment for the growth and sustainability of small enterprises, and to strengthen the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 03/03/2024 - 10:31

830 views

1 March 2024

New Eskom chief executive assumes duties

Location: News

New Eskom chief executive assumes duties

Dan Marokane officially assumes his role as Eskom Group Chief Executive today.

In a statement on Friday, the Eskom Board expressed confidence in Marokane’s abilities, as well as in the leadership and staff of Eskom, emphasising their collective commitment to turning the organisation around.

“We expect Morokane and his leadership team to accomplish at least two critical tasks. Firstly, they must address the current business challenges. Load shedding must become a thing of the past. Secondly, they need to reposition and restructure Eskom to enable growth and sustainability,” said Eskom Board chairman Mteto Nyati.

As Marokane takes the helm, the Eskom Board has asked him to prioritise several key areas in the first 100 days and these are:

Assessing the Generation Operational Recovery Plan.
Reviewing Eskom’s unbundling plans.
Engaging with internal and external stakeholders.

These first 100 days are crucial for helping him gain the necessary insights about Eskom and the industry.

Eskom said the new Group Chief Executive should be in a position to engage with the media at the end of this critical period.

“Morokane has the full support of the Eskom Board. Eskom employees are excited to welcome him back into the organisation. We invite all South Africans to rally behind him as he steers Eskom toward stability, reliability, and sustainability,” said Nyati.

Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan announced the appointment of Marokane in December 2023.

READ | Marokane re-joins Eskom as new chief executive

According to the Department of Public Enterprises, Marokane is a qualified Chemical Engineer, who has a MBA and is a seasoned executive with more than 20 years of senior leadership experience.

At the time of the announcement of his appointment, Marokane was expected to join the power utility no later than 31 March 2024.

Marokane was a senior manager at Eskom from 2010 to 2015, holding various senior positions, including Head of Group Capital. - SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 09:11

109 views

29 February 2024

New Manifesto Aims To Restore Leadership Trust

Location: MyPR

As South Africa faces a looming leadership crisis amidst upcoming elections, trust in key institutions has reached unprecedented lows, according to various studies. In response to this alarming trend, there is a growing call for a shift towards responsible leadership to foster economic and social stability. According to the Institute of Justice and Reconciliation’s December …

29 February 2024

Unveiling the Essential Role of Hospitality Linen Suppliers in South Africa

Location: MyPR

In the realm of hospitality, where comfort and luxury are paramount, the role of linen suppliers cannot be overstated. These suppliers form an integral part of the hospitality industry in South Africa, providing establishments with the essential linens that contribute to the overall guest experience. From hotels and resorts to restaurants and event venues, the demand for …

29 February 2024

Revolutionising Courier Services: A Glimpse into the World of Modern Logistics

Location: MyPR

In the bustling domain of logistics, there’s a significant emphasis on innovative courier services in South Africa. These services cater to both local and international delivery needs, showcasing a dynamic approach to addressing the diverse logistical challenges faced by businesses and individuals alike. Let’s embark on an exploration of this vibrant sector, shedding light on the …

29 February 2024

Pioneering the Future of Food Manufacturing in South Africa

Location: MyPR

In the heart of South Africa, a vibrant and dynamic sector is reshaping the culinary landscape—food manufacturing. This industry, characterized by its innovation, sustainability, and quality, plays a pivotal role in feeding the nation and beyond. Among the leaders in this sector are bulk food manufacturers, who are setting new standards in food production, distribution, and …

28 February 2024

B-well invests in industry through its collaboration with Sense of Taste Chef School

Location: MyPR

B-well is thrilled to announce its partnership with the Sense of Taste Chef School, based in Maitland, Cape Town. The collaboration will see B-well supplying the school and its community feeding programme with the complete range of B-well products, made from homegrown canola. “We are very excited to partner with Sense of Taste,” says Lunique …