Betway SA20 and Bluewater partner to steer sustainability
League takes first step towards becoming eco-friendly event Monday, 5 February 2024:The Betway SA20 Playoffs and Final are staking a...
Sustainability
Serenity Hills welcomes a conservation-focused Estate Manager to the team
Set within an indigenous coastal forest teeming with wildlife, the stunning Serenity Hills is an eco-focused estate with a drive towards sustainability. Tasked with overseeing the estate’s maintenance, safety, and preservation – including that of the indigenous wildlife – is Ryne Ferguson (36), the newly appointed Estate Manager. “The position at Serenity Hills is a …
Mining The Future – Minrom
Blessed by abundant natural resources, Africa’s mining sector has historically been a driving force behind the continent’s economic growth. However, the industry now faces a myriad of challenges. As we approach the 2024 Mining Indaba, the world’s largest African mining investment event, it is crucial to reflect on the trajectory of the industry and its …
Mashatile engages business leaders
Mashatile engages business leaders
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has held an interactive session with more than 50 business leaders at a Sandton event organised by The European House – Ambrosetti, a leading global think tank.
According to the Deputy President’s Office, Wednesday’s event was convened to strengthen the strategic relationships between industry and governments and promote growth through a multi-stakeholder approach.
Discussions touched on various topics, including economic priorities and reforms, tackling unemployment and poverty, building investor confidence in South Africa, and driving foreign direct investment into the country.
“The closed session provided a platform for business leaders to engage with the Deputy President, who has been instrumental in courting investment to boost SA's economy, as part of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s ongoing investment drive,” the statement read.
Despite the challenges facing the country, the Deputy President expressed his optimism about the government's willingness to change its fortunes for the better.
He emphasised the need for public-private partnerships, such as those facilitated by the Southern Africa CEO Community – African Chapter, to help address the country’s challenges and provide support for businesses, and rural and township communities.
The forum also offered an opportunity for the Deputy President to listen to and collaborate with business leaders on key areas that the government defines as critical for the future of the country and the community.
“It also served as a means to strengthen ties between the government and private sectors based on principles of mutual respect and shared interests and values.”
The Deputy President agreed with business leaders that there is a need to accelerate the resolution of challenges impacting key economic enablers, namely energy, transport and logistics, crime, and corruption.
“We should work together to solve our economic difficulties while promoting greater social inclusion and sustainability. Through collaboration, we will be able to make South Africa a better and more prosperous nation,” the Deputy President said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 02/01/2024 - 13:04
358 views
Mondelēz International is among Africa’s Top Employers for Fifth Consecutive Year
Mondelēz International (www.MondelezInternational.com) was recognised by the Top Employers Institute as a Top Employer in Africa for the fifth consecutive year.
The leading multinational confectionery, food and beverage company was ranked 1st place in Nigeria, and 4th in South Africa overall among Africa's best employers, progressing from 3rd and 8th place respectively.
To merit Top Employer certification, companies are expected to participate in an HR Best Practices Survey covering key themes such as People Strategy, Work Environment, Talent Acquisition, Learning, Diversity & Inclusion, Wellbeing and more.
Mondelēz International's Senior Director, People Lead Sub-Saharan Africa, Cebile Xulu, says being certified by a highly regarded international authority such as the Top Employers Institute is powerful validation the business is successfully embracing and implementing global HR trends to create an environment where talent can thrive and is focused on putting their people first through their best-in-class HR policies.
A values-driven workplace
“At Mondelēz International, we place enormous emphasis on creating a values-driven workplace that cares for employees, customers, and consumers. This is important in a world where the competition to attract and retain top talent is fierce and the emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusion continues to be a key feature of thriving and successful organisations”
“From the feedback reports issued by the Institute, we learned that our organisation ranked highly across all six (6) domains, namely Business & People Strategy, Performance Management & Career Development, Leadership, Digital HR, Employee Listening, Rewards & Recognition, Purpose & Values, Ethics & Integrity, DE&I, and Sustainability.
“We have been highly deliberate in our efforts to build a wining culture and these results are confirmation that we are on the right track, despite the myriad of business and macroeconomic challenges we have had to navigate in our markets” notes Xulu.
What makes Mondelēz an employer of choice?
The snacking company boasts a large portfolio of global and local brands including Oreo, Cadbury, Bournvita, Tom Tom, Halls, Lunch Bar and Stimorol. Globally, it has a 150-country footprint and a talent base of about 80,000 employees. In this respect, Mondelēz International is well positioned to lead the future of snacking, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa.
“Our collective love of our brands is shared with millions of people around the world. The markets we operate in are fast moving and layered, and present excellent opportunities for our people to do their best and stretch themselves on their growth journeys,” concludes Xulu.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mondelēz International.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile Engages Prominent Business Leaders
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has today, 31 January 2024, met with over 50 business leaders in Sandton, for an interactive session organised by the leading global think tank, The European House – Ambrosetti. The event was convened with the aim to strengthen the strategic relationships between industry and governments, promoting growth through a multi-stakeholder approach.
Discussions touched on various topics, including economic priorities and reforms, tackling unemployment and poverty, building investor confidence in South Africa, and driving foreign direct investment into the country. The closed session provided a platform for business leaders to engage with the Deputy President, who has been instrumental in courting investment to boost SA's economy, as part of President Cyril Ramaphosa's ongoing investment drive.
Despite the challenges facing the country, the Deputy President expressed his optimism about the Government's willingness to change its fortunes for the better. He emphasised the need for public-private partnerships, such as those facilitated by the Southern Africa CEO Community – African Chapter, to help address the country's challenges and provide support for businesses, rural, and township communities.
The forum offered an opportunity for the Deputy President to listen to and collaborate with business leaders on key areas that the government defines as critical for the future of the country and the community. It also served as a means to strengthen ties between the Government and private sectors based on principles of mutual respect and shared interests and values.
The Deputy President agreed with business leaders that there is a need for acceleration towards the resolution of challenges impacting key economic enablers, namely energy, transport and logistics, and crime and corruption.
“We should work together to solve our economic difficulties while promoting greater social inclusion and sustainability. Through collaboration, we will be able to make South Africa a better and more prosperous nation,” the Deputy President said.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.
Serenity Hills shows its commitment to conservation
As an eco-focused estate, Serenity Hills on the KZN South Coast is developing an environmentally-conscious space in harmony with the incredible nature assets found in this space. This commitment is underscored by Serenity Hills’ recent acquisition of the title ‘Green Custodians of FreeMe Wildlife’ earlier this month. From the start, developers have prioritised real sustainability …
LG Unveils Latest HVAC Solutions At AHR Expo 2024
Company’s Focus on Sustainable Solutions, Whole Home Electrification and Commercial Innovations on Display at World’s Largest HVAC Industry Tradeshow CHICAGO, Jan. 25, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) unveiled its latest heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) solutions at AHR Expo 2024, taking place in Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A., from January 22-24. LG’s energy-efficient residential and commercial …
Exploring the Future of Automotive Excellence in South Africa
The Evolution of Car Buying Experience The car buying journey has transformed significantly over the years. Today’s customers are looking for more than just a vehicle; they seek a partner in their automotive journey, offering cutting-edge technology and a commitment to excellence. One such example is the emergence of a new state-of-the-art dealership that is …
Efficient Waste Management Solutions: How we Transforms Rubble Removal and Skip Hire
In the ever-evolving landscape of environmental conservation, Waste Management has become a pivotal aspect for businesses and households alike. As a leading Waste Management Company that has been at the forefront of this transformation, offering innovative solutions in Rubble Removal and Skip Hire services. Their commitment to sustainability and efficient waste management practices has set …
Pullman Cape Town appoints Raynor Damons as Director of Food and Beverage as it continues executive team expansion
With 25 years of hospitality experience, Raynor Damons’ most recent position was Food and Beverage Manager at Westin Cape Town where he was at the helm of all Food & Beverage outlets to ensure that all was catered for to the palate and pace of the discerning traveller. Raynor Damons joins a dynamic team at …
Transforming food waste into animal nutrition: How the Shoprite Group feeds 3 000 cattle a day
Transforming food waste into animal nutrition: how the Shoprite Group feeds 3 000 cattle a day By converting 1 000 tonnes of food waste into animal feed over the past six months, the Shoprite Group is providing enough fodder for up to 3 000 cattle daily as part of its commitment to environmental sustainability and …
Plastics SA Hosts Successful General Plastics Industry Meeting: A Pivotal Event For The Future Of The South African Plastics Industry
Plastics SA, the umbrella body representing the local plastics industry, successfully hosted a General Plastics Industry Meeting at its head office in Midrand, Johannesburg, on November 30, 2023. The hybrid meeting witnessed enthusiastic participation from representatives spanning various sectors of the South African plastics industry. The meeting commenced with a warm welcome from Deputy Chairman …
Municipalities called to re-invest revenue collection into water services
Municipalities called to re-invest revenue collection into water services
Water and Sanitation Deputy Ministers, Judith Tshabalala and David Mahlobo, have called for municipalities to re-invest money collected from revenue into water and sanitation services to ensure sustainability of infrastructure that will stand the test of time.
The Deputy Ministers made the call during an oversight visit to Mbombela Local Municipality in Mpumalanga to assess the state of water and sanitation services in the municipality.
Addressing a meeting held with Ehlanzeni District and Mbombela Local Municipalities officials and various stakeholders, Mahlobo decried the increasing levels of non-revenue water, which he attributed to old and dilapidated water infrastructure, as well as illegal connections.
Mahlobo underscored the need to drastically reduce water losses and the need for a concrete plan to reducelosses. This includes asset management and revenue enhancement to help stabilise the municipalities.
“Operation and maintenance, and renewal of water and sanitation infrastructure is of critical importance, and we need to invest in this consistently. Part of the money that people pay for services needs to be used for maintaining the existing infrastructure so that we don’t experience problems in the long run,” Mahlobo said.
Mahlobo urged the Mbombela Local Municipality not to rely too much on water tankering, and advised them to use it only when it is necessary on an interim basis to avoid the high cost for the service.
If the municipality has to use water tankers, Mahlobo said, the tankers must be government owned and not privately owned because this promotes the “black market”, a phenomenon of groups of people, who allegedly damage water infrastructure deliberately in order to benefit from it.
Tshabalala said the department is committed to supporting Mbombela Local Municipality in its quest to turn things around, and ensure sustainable provision of basic services to the people.
Tshabalala reiterated that water and sanitation services are basic constitutional rights that people are entitled to, and government is duty bound to provide these services in a sustainable manner.
“It is our interest as national government to give support to municipalities as Water Services Authorities to render these services. We are here to support you, but you must give us concrete plans with clear timeframes, [and] we will dispatch our teams to give you all forms of support, including technical support,” Tshabalala said.
The meeting agreed that a steering committee will be established to deal with water issues in the province focusing on all the regions.
The committee will include representatives from all spheres of government, as well as Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency, an entity of the department in Mpumalanga.
The committee is expected to meet urgently to devise plans that will restore the dignity of communities and ensure sustainable water and sanitation services in the province.
The oversight ended with a visit to Kanyamazane and Karino Water Treatment Plants for the Deputy Ministers to get first-hand experience of the challenges that hinder water provision to the communities. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 01/24/2024 - 13:15
114 views
Take fraction in the Green Tourism Incentive Programme
Take part in the Green Tourism Incentive Programme
The Department of Tourism has invited eligible tourism enterprises to take part in the Green Tourism Incentive Programme’s (GTIP) 9th application window, opening on 25 January until 31 March 2024.
The development of the GTIP was informed by escalating electricity prices, the intensifying pressure on the national energy grid and negative impacts of load shedding, as well as water scarcity and drought conditions which negatively impact the tourism sector.
This programme encourages private sector tourism enterprises to move towards the installation of solutions for the sustainable management and usage of electricity and water resources.
GTIP has already assisted 173 tourism businesses across the country with electricity and water solutions to the total grant value of R104 285 673.
The solutions that were installed as part of this process helped reduce input costs and increase operational sustainability and competitiveness. A further 419 active applications are at various stages of processing, according to the department.
For this financial year, the department has set aside R199 151 179 to disburse to successful GTIP applicants.
The department said it has worked closely with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to develop the GTIP for the sector to ensure an enhanced and uninterrupted visitor experience for tourists. Funding applications and approvals for the GTIP are managed by the IDC.
Eligible applicants are able to qualify for the full cost of a new energy and water efficiency audit or the review of an existing audit.
Furthermore, eligible applicants are also able to qualify for grant funding of between 50% and 90% (capped at a maximum of R1 million per applicant) on the cost of approved solutions that will improve energy and water efficiency and reduce the costs of their tourism operations.
“This programme is one that I am most proud of that the department is able to offer the tourism sector where by going green, tourism establishments are able to offer an uninterrupted visitor experience and ensure that the sector can continue to operate despite energy and water constraints,” Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said.
“This initiative is also vital to our efforts to adapt and mitigate to the impacts of climate change by helping businesses use water wisely and use clean forms of energy thereby reducing carbon emissions.
“I encourage businesses to apply for this support by the Department of Tourism so that we can keep the tourism sector green,” de Lille said.
The GTIP has yielded many success stories.
Ingrid Young of Cliffhanger Cottage from Rheenendal, Knysna, is one of the guesthouse owners the department assisted with water tanks and installation of solar panels for generating energy as well as pumping water in her establishment through the GTIP.
She confidently said she is now able to accommodate her customers as she can operate her business with ease.
“This programme installed solar panels which is assisting me in heating geysers, cooking as well as pumping of water from the borehole. I am content as my tourism business is now booming, because of the number of bookings I receive,” Mehlomakulu Mehlomakulu from Fort Hook Guesthouse in Phelandaba outside Sterkspruit in the Eastern Cape said, thanking the department.
Anthony Maitland, the owner of Teniqua Tree Tops Guesthouse situated between Thatchfield and Knysna, said: “The water pumping system in my guesthouse as well as frequent load shedding in the area used to be a huge problem until the installation of solar panels which is assisting with the water pumping system as well as curbing load shedding in my guesthouse.
“I am now at ease to operate the business without any fear of energy outages. I can recommend this programme to emerging and existing tourism establishments.”
The GTIP does not only assist in reducing pressure on the national electricity grid and water resources of the country, but also reduce operational input cost and facilitate increased competitiveness and operational sustainability in the tourism sector.
The department said it continues to advance climate action in tourism for the resilience of the sector as well as strengthening adaptive capacity.
For more information or to apply for the GTIP programme visit www.tourism.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 01/23/2024 - 15:23
227 views
South Africa: Tourism opens application for Green Tourism Incentive Programme
The Department of Tourism invites all eligible tourism enterprises to take part in the Green Tourism Incentive Programme's (GTIP) 9th application window, opening on 25 January until 31 March 2024.
The development of the GTIP was informed by escalating electricity prices, the intensifying pressure on the national energy grid and negative impacts of load-shedding, as well as water scarcity and drought conditions which negatively impact the tourism sector. This programme encourages private sector tourism enterprises to move towards the installation of solutions for the sustainable management and usage of electricity and water resources.
For this financial year, the Department has set aside R199 151 179 to disburse to successful GTIP applicants. GTIP has already assisted 173 tourism businesses across the country with electricity and water solutions to the total grant value of R104 285 673. The solutions that were installed as part of this process helped reduce input costs and increase operational sustainability and competitiveness. A further 419 active applications are at various stages of processing.
The Department has worked closely with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to develop the GTIP for the sector to ensure an enhanced and uninterrupted visitor experience for tourists.
Funding applications and approvals for the GTIP are managed by the IDC.
Eligible applicants are able to qualify for the full cost of a new energy and water efficiency audit or the review of an existing audit. Furthermore, eligible applicants are also able to qualify for grant funding of between 50% and 90% (capped at a maximum of R1 million per applicant) on the cost of approved solutions that will improve energy and water efficiency and reduce the costs of their tourism operations.
Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille said: “This programme is one that I am most proud of that the department is able to offer the tourism sector where by going green, tourism establishments are able to offer an uninterrupted visitor experience and ensure that the sector can continue to operate despite energy and water constraints. This initiative is also vital to our efforts to adapt and mitigate the impacts of climate change by helping businesses use water wisely and use clean forms of energy thereby reducing carbon emissions. I encourage businesses to apply for this support by the Department of Tourism so that we can keep the tourism sector green”.
GTIP has yielded many success stories. Mr Mpho Marothi from Kgarebana Boutique Guesthouse near KwaMhlanga township in Mpumalanga stated that the solar system which was installed in November 2023, was an early Christmas gift as his establishment was fully booked this festive season.
“My guesthouse is now able to operate 24-hours without any hassles of loadshedding, because of the solar system which was installed by the Department of Tourism. The solar system assistsin providing power supply for air-conditioning, heating of geysers and other household purposes in my guesthouse and as such, I can recommend the GTIP to emerging and existing tourism establishments,” said Mr Marothi.
Ms Ingrid Young of Cliffhanger Cottage from Rheenendal, Knysna, is one of the guesthouse owners the Department assisted with water tanks and installation of a solar system for generating energy as well as pumping water in her establishment through the GTIP. She confidently said she is now able to accommodate her customers as she can operate her business with ease at all times.
Thanking the Department, Ms Maureen Mehlomakulu from Fort Hook Guesthouse in Phelandaba outside Sterkspruit in the Eastern Cape said: “This programme installed a solar system which is assisting me in heating geysers, cooking as well as pumping of water from the borehole. I am content as my tourism business is now booming, because of the number of bookings I receive.”
The owner of Teniqua Tree Tops Guesthouse situated between Thatchfield and Knysna, Mr Anthony Maitland stated: “The water pumping system in my guesthouse as well as frequent loadshedding in the area used to be a huge problem until the installation of a solar system which is assisting with the water pumping system as well as curbing loadshedding in my guesthouse. I am now at ease to operate the business without any fear of energy outages. I can recommend this programme to emerging and existing tourism establishments.''
The GTIP does not only assist in reducing pressure on the national electricity grid and water resources of the country, but also reduce operational input cost and facilitate increased competitiveness and operational sustainability in the tourism sector. The Department continues to advance climate action in tourism for the resilience of the sector as well as strengthening adaptive capacity.
For more information or to apply for the GTIP programme, visit www.Tourism.gov.za
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Tourism, Republic of South Africa.
Have your say on National Budget
Have your say on National Budget
Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has called on South Africans to share their suggestions on the National Budget.
The Minister will deliver the National Budget Speech in February 2024.
People may submit their views on municipal finances, spending priorities of government, addressing a large budget deficit, stabilising state-owned entity finances, managing the energy crisis, tax revenues and debt sustainability.
The closing date for submissions is 11 February 2024.
“The budget allocation aims to strike a balance between growing the economy and supporting the vulnerable amid limited resources. It is in this context that Minister Godongwana invites South Africans to share their suggestions on the Budget. Minister Godongwana looks forward to your contributions,” the Ministry of Finance said on Monday.
Contributions can be sent through via the National Treasury website here: https://bit.ly/3ruszsi.
Citizens are encouraged to keep contributions concise and to the point.
The Ministry of Finance has urged those on social media to tag them on its social media accounts using the hashtag #TipsForMinFin and #Budget2024:
- X - Treasury_RSA
- LinkedIn - National Treasury RSA
- TikTok - @TreasuryRSA
- facebook - National Treasury RSA
- SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 01/23/2024 - 09:29
150 views
Strengthening Macro-fiscal and Budgeting Functions in Southern Africa
Being a budget director, or the head of a macro-fiscal unit (MFU) of a ministry of finance, is a demanding job. So, it was an impressive combination of logistical ingenuity and good timing that brought together heads of budget and macro-fiscal functions from 11 Southern African countries for a regional workshop on ‘Strengthening the macro-fiscal function in ministries of finance'. The event was organized by the IMF's Regional Technical Assistance Center for Southern Africa (AFRITAC South). The countries participating were Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Mauritius, Seychelles, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
The objective of the workshop was to equip these senior officials with strategies for effectively managing macro-fiscal functions and integrating these strategies with the budgeting process. It aimed to build networks, share experiences, and identify good practices. Topics discussed included macro-fiscal forecasting and analysis, medium-term fiscal frameworks (MTFFs), efficient organizational arrangements that improve decision-making within finance ministries, nurturing effective working relationships with other stakeholders, and building teams of motivated and capable technical staff.
Whilst each of the 11 countries faces its own unique set of challenges, some common themes emerged:
- The need to strengthen the analysis and publication of information on fiscal risks.
- Countries' fiscal objectives are often considered either ineffective, unclear, or entirely missing.
- Several of the countries are seeking to improve the quality of their MTFFs and, generally, introduce a more strategic approach to fiscal policy-making and annual budgeting.
- Coordination within the finance ministry and with other ministries (including a planning ministry in some cases) is often difficult.
- Staff training and high turnover rates are frequently a cause of concern.
- Whilst many countries can generate good quality policy analysis and advice, communicating that advice to politicians and top management and influencing decisions can be a challenge.
On staff training, the most cited skills gaps relate to problem solving, quantitative analysis and report writing. A few participants shared positive experiences about partnering with local universities to help build skills, making use of free online training for staff and promoting staff development programs as a non-monetary incentive to retain them. The use of training needs questionnaires and staff training plans was also encouraged. Many countries included the need for more formalized staff training plans and including managerial and soft skills development in those plans.
High levels of staff turnover are a concern for many countries. Coping mechanisms include documenting processes and encouraging ‘twinning' arrangements to minimize situations where only one staff member understands a model or technical process that underlies macroeconomic forecasting and fiscal analysis. Specific induction training and mentoring processes can be useful. An alternative to writing lengthy user manuals (for which there is rarely the time) is to ask staff to record “how to” videos that describe how a forecasting model or other technical process works. These videos can be stored on a private YouTube channel for new staff to watch.
To help improve macro-fiscal and budgeting functions, participants prepared plausible action plans and presented them on the final day of the workshop. Suggestions included:
- Establishing long-term fiscal frameworks to assess fiscal sustainability based on demographic changes.
- Introducing clearly defined and monitorable fiscal objectives and targets.
- Institutionalizing work on fiscal risks and scenario analysis.
- Using analytical tools to promote evidence-based macro-fiscal policy decision making.
- Creating Macro Working Groups to improve coordination and information sharing for preparing macro-fiscal forecasts.
Participants committed to maintaining the network with counterparts to continuously exchange knowledge and the sharing of experiences.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Monetary Fund (IMF).
South Africa concludes tough but productive trip to World Economic Forum (WEF) 2024
South Africa's delegation to the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2024 Annual Meeting in Davos used the platform to meaningfully engage investors, civil society, businesses and governments, and drove home the message that the country remains a top destination for growth and investment. The delegation was led by the Minister of Finance, Mr Enoch Godongwana and comprised of Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Mr Ebrahim Patel, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Dr Blade Nzimande, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Mr Mondli Gungubele, and Minister of Health Dr Joe Phaahla, Brand South Africa, business executives, entrepreneurs and civil society leaders.
The overall WEF 2024 theme, Rebuilding Trust, underlined South Africa's continued role as a regional and global leader in the international community. Minister Godongwana said that South Africa's participation in global forums such as WEF Davos reinforced their belief in the value of multilateralism and the spirit of cooperation as a critical part of an overall strategy to lift economic growth. He added that countries stood to benefit from the common pursuit of a fairer, more inclusive, and representative global system.
The South African delegation tackled questions on the progress the country is making in economic reforms, particularly in areas of energy, transport and logistics, and fighting crime.
“We took the opportunity of the WEF Davos gathering to remind our partners around the world that South Africa has made tremendous progress in the past 30 years since we achieved democracy,” said Minister Godongwana. “Yes, we face a number of obstacles to achieving policy that balances fiscal sustainability, growth-accelerating reforms, and targeted spending on social services and infrastructure. We are forging ahead and making good progress.”
The Annual WEF meeting, which took place from 15 to 19 January 2024, offered South Africa's policymakers a genuine and rare opportunity to speak directly with a cross spectrum of stakeholders in global affairs, exchanging views on how to weather the rise in geopolitical and economic tensions that are shaping today's world.
Climate, technology, trade and multilateral cooperation were high on the agenda, as was South Africa's upcoming presidency of the G20 in 2025. In addition to its participation in the G20, the country is playing a key part in the expansion of the BRICS group, as well as the deepening of intercontinental economic integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Speaking at a panel on the BRICS in Expansion, which was inked in August 2023 at a summit in Johannesburg, Minister Godongwana stressed the importance the bloc is playing in reforming international decision-making bodies to better reflect contemporary power and economic realities.
“Although individual economic circumstances amongst BRICS+ will vary, there will be common interests that will allow the bloc to forge consensus on the urgency of sustainable economic development,” said Minister Godongwana. “The expansion will help the BRICS Group to be the voice of the global south.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Treasury, Republic of South Africa.
Team South Africa returns from tough, productive WEF annual meeting – Treasury
Team South Africa returns from tough, productive WEF annual meeting - Treasury
The South African delegation to the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting has returned back to SA, having driven home the message that the country remains a "top destination for growth and investment”.
This is according to a media statement released by National Treasury on Monday.
Team South Africa’s delegation was led by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and comprised the Ministers of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel; Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande; Communications and Digital Technologies Mondli Gungubele, and Health, Dr Joe Phaahla.
Godongwana said the message to investors, civil society, businesses and governments is that despite the many challenges it faces, South Africa is making progress.
“We took the opportunity of the WEF Davos gathering to remind our partners around the world that South Africa has made tremendous progress in the past 30 years since we achieved democracy.
“Yes, we face a number of obstacles to achieving policy that balances fiscal sustainability, growth-accelerating reforms, and targeted spending on social services and infrastructure. However, we are forging ahead and making good progress,” he said.
According to National Treasury, the annual meeting – held last week in Davos, Switzerland – offered an opportunity for South Africa to engage world leaders on a number of issues.
“[It] offered South Africa’s policymakers a genuine and rare opportunity to speak directly with a cross spectrum of stakeholders in global affairs, exchanging views on how to weather the rise in geopolitical and economic tensions that are shaping today’s world.
“Climate, technology, trade and multilateral cooperation were high on the agenda, as was South Africa’s upcoming presidency of the G20 in 2025.
“In addition to its participation in the G20, the country is playing a key part in the expansion of the BRICS group, as well as the deepening of intercontinental economic integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 01/22/2024 - 14:46
63 views
Cradock: Prepaid Water Meter Suppliers
Living in a beautiful town like Cradock comes with its own set of joys and challenges. While the Eastern Cape town boasts stunning scenery and a rich historical tapestry, managing water usage, especially with unpredictable rainfall patterns, can be a concern. That’s where prepaid water meters come in, empowering residents to take control of their …
Celebrating Admire and Appreciation: Valentines Day Corporate Gifts by Perkal Promo
Valentine’s Day, also known as Saint Valentine’s Day or the Feast of Saint Valentine, is a time-honoured tradition celebrated on February 14th each year. Originating as a Western Christian liturgical feast day honouring early saints named Valentinus, this day has evolved into a global cultural and commercial phenomenon. It’s a day where love, affection, and …
All About Chery SUVs: A Comprehensive Overview
The automotive landscape is vast and diverse, with a multitude of manufacturers vying for attention. Among them, Chery, a Chinese automobile manufacturer, has carved out a niche for itself, particularly in the realm of Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs). Known for offering affordable and practical vehicles, Chery has expanded its global footprint significantly in recent years. …
Condolences for Violet Siwela
Condolences for Violet Siwela
Minister of Small Business Development Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams has paid tribute to the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Small Business Development, Violet Siwela, for serving the committee with distinction.
In a statement on Thursday, Ndabeni-Abrahams expressed her heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, comrades and her political home, the African National Congress.
“Her sad passing marks the end of a life that was selflessly dedicated to serving the people of South Africa, in particular the informal traders, cooperatives, micro, small and medium enterprises ecosystem.
“Inspired by her proud legacy, we pledge to continue working tirelessly to ensure the growth and sustainability of small businesses. In her name and in honour of her legacy, we commit to ensure that the National Small Enterprise Amendment Bill is passed,” the Minister said.
The Bill seeks to amend the National Small Enterprise Act to provide for the establishment of the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEDFA) and the subsequent disestablishment of the Small Enterprise Financing Agency (Sefa), the Co-operative Banks Development Agency (CBDA) and the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda); and for the establishment of the Office of the Small Enterprise Ombud Service.
The Bill further enables the Minister to declare certain practices in relation to small enterprises to be prohibited as unfair trading practices and to make regulations with regard thereto.
“The successful passing of this Bill will be a fitting tribute to her commitment, dedication and passion for small business development,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 10:50
40 views