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President Ramaphosa Leads Delegation to the World Economic Forum

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the South African delegation to the 55th World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting that will take place from 20 to 24 January 2025 in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland.

The meeting, convened under the theme “Collaboration in the Intelligent Age”, will foster new partnerships and insights to shape a more sustainable, inclusive future in an era of rapidly advancing technology.

WEF convenes global leaders to address key global and regional challenges. These include responding to geopolitical shocks, stimulating growth to improve living standards, and stewarding a just and inclusive energy transition.

South Africa's innovation and technology is crucial in driving economic development and addressing societal challenges, thus aiming to leverage technological advancements to promote inclusive growth and enhance global competitiveness. This would be achieved by modernising industries, advancing skill development, and improving public services.

President Ramaphosa will deliver a special address to the World Economic Forum, where he will present the economic priorities of South Africa's Government of National Unity and advance the country's G20 Presidency which is themed "Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”.

South Africa is committed to leveraging the G20 platform to highlight the significance of fostering economic growth while ensuring social inclusion and environmental stewardship.

During the G20 Presidency, South Africa will endeavour to create equitable opportunities for all by addressing systemic disparities and promoting unity and mutual support to address shared global challenges collaboratively.

The WEF Annual Meeting is a valuable opportunity for South Africa to demonstrate its potential as a hub for global investments and its ongoing structural reforms.

South Africa's delegation, which includes key government and business leaders, will engage with international stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and advance South Africa's economic and social agenda.

Through these engagements, South Africa aims to reaffirm its role as a key player in the global community, contributing meaningfully to discussions on sustainable development and collaborative solutions for a better future.

The President will be accompanied by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Mr Ronald Lamola; Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Mr Parks Tau; Minister of Electricity and Energy Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa; Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Blade Nzimande; Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Mr Solly Malatsi; Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Environment Mr Dion George; Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi and Minister of Agriculture Mr John Steenhuisen.

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

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President Ramaphosa leads SA delegation to WEF meeting

Location: News

President Ramaphosa leads SA delegation to WEF meeting

President Cyril Ramaphosa will be leading the South African delegation to the 55th World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting to be held in Davos, Switzerland.

The annual meeting to be held from 20 to 24 January 2025, convenes global leaders to address key global, and regional challenges. These include responding to geopolitical shocks, stimulating growth to improve living standards, and stewarding a just and inclusive energy transition.

The South African delegation head into this year’s WEF annual meeting bearing the Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20).

In a statement on Monday, the Presidency said President Ramaphosa will deliver a special address to the World Economic Forum, where he will present the economic priorities of South Africa’s Government of National Unity 9GNU), and advance the country’s G20 Presidency, which is themed ‘Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.

“South Africa is committed to leveraging the G20 platform to highlight the significance of fostering economic growth while ensuring social inclusion and environmental stewardship.

“During the G20 Presidency, South Africa will endeavour to create equitable opportunities for all, by addressing systemic disparities and promoting unity and mutual support to address shared global challenges collaboratively,” the Presidency said.

The Presidency noted that the WEF annual meeting is a valuable opportunity for South Africa to demonstrate its potential, as a hub for global investments, and its ongoing structural reforms.

“South Africa’s delegation, which includes key government and business leaders, will engage with international stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and advance South Africa’s economic and social agenda.

“Through these engagements, South Africa aims to reaffirm its role as a key player in the global community, contributing meaningfully to discussions on sustainable development and collaborative solutions for a better future,” the Presidency said.

The Presidency described the annual meeting as a gathering of “global leaders to address key global and regional challenges”. 

This year's meeting will be held under the theme “Collaboration in the Intelligent Age”.

These include responding to geopolitical shocks, stimulating growth to improve living standards, and stewarding, a just and inclusive energy transition.

“South Africa’s innovation and technology is crucial in driving economic development and addressing societal challenges, thus aiming to leverage technological advancements to promote inclusive growth and enhance global competitiveness. 

“This would be achieved by modernising industries, advancing skill development, and improving public services,” the Presidency said.

The President will be accompanied by Ministers, including: 

  • Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola, 
  • Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana 
  • Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau
  • Minister of Electricity and Energy Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa 
  • Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Blade Nzimande 
  • Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi 
  • Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Environment Dion George
  • Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi
  • Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen, Dr Blade Nzimande; 
  • Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi; 
  • Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Environment Dion George;
  • Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi; and
  • Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 11:17

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SA celebrates 15 years of collaboration with European lab for particle physics

Location: News

SA celebrates 15 years of collaboration with European lab for particle physics

The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, will reflect on South Africa’s 15-year partnership with CERN, the European organisation for nuclear research, in Cape Town, this week.

The two-day event, on 20 and 21 January 2025, will be held at the National Research Foundation’s iThemba Laboratory for Accelerator-Based Science (iThemba-LABS).

It will recognise South Africa’s contributions to pioneering scientific research and innovation on the global stage. 

CERN is the world’s largest particle physics laboratory and the SA-CERN collaboration has fostered advancements in physics, technology, and human capital development. 

The SA-CERN programme was officially launched in 2008 and chaired by the late Professor Jean Cleymans.

“The programme has built on the rich history of experimental science in South Africa, increasing the local and international footprint of the country in high-energy physics, and facilitating South African researchers, engineers, and students’ access to CERN’s Large Hadron Collider in Geneva,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 10:27

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What to Expect at African Energy Week 2025

Location: Business
African Energy Chamber

Africa is on the precipice of accelerated growth, with major energy projects and untapped resources creating an attractive environment for project developers and financiers. With the continent's energy demand projected to more than double by 2050 and fossil fuels expected to comprise up to 60% of the energy mix by 2040, there lies a strategic opportunity for companies to invest, energy portfolios to grow and countries to reap the rewards of their oil, gas and energy resources.

Returning for its next edition from 29 September to 3 October at the Cape Town International Convention Center, the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference serves as the leading platform for deal-making, energy partnerships and investments. Building on the success of its previous editions, the event offers a platform for capital and technology to be directed towards African energy projects. In 2025, the event returns bigger and better than before.

Greater Focus on Projects, Emerging Opportunities

With 2025 promising to be an impactful year for Africa's energy sector, the AEW: Invest in African Energies conference will further catalyze development by connecting investors to African projects. On the project front, a slate of major developments is either progressing or will begin operations. These include the second phase of the Congo LNG project; the full operation of the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim development in Senegal/Mauritania; the launch of the Cabinda Refinery in Angola; appraisal drilling in Namibia's Orange Basin, and many more. Strategic developments such as the East African Crude Oil Pipeline, the Mozambique LNG project and exploratory drilling continent-wide require capital, highlighting emerging opportunities for global financiers.

Additionally, Africa's 2024/2025 licensing rounds signal a renewed drive to position the continent as a leading frontier. In North Africa, Libya plans to launch a bid round featuring 22 blocks, Egypt plans to host an international bid round for 12 exploration blocks while Algeria will launch a tender featuring 6 onshore blocks. In West Africa, Mauritania, Nigeria and Liberia will launch licensing rounds, while in Southern Africa, Angola will offer 9 blocks for exploration, Namibia is rolling out a new open-door policy and Tanzania will promote 24 oil and gas blocks in March 2025. These opportunities will be on display at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025, creating an in-roads for new players.

Uniting Stakeholders to Make Energy Poverty History by 2030

As the largest energy event on the continent, AEW: Invest in African Energies convenes energy, finance and policy stakeholders from the global and African markets. From presidents and ministers to explorers and infrastructure developers to financiers and technology leaders, the event serves as the premier event for the African energy sector. This year, the event offers an expanded program, covering strategic topics such as frontier exploration, refining and processing, power development and connectivity, green hydrogen, regulation and skills development. Speakers will not only address the pressing challenges impacting the continent's energy progress but showcase the range of investment opportunities available across the continent. AEW: Invest in African Energies is where African governments meet, international energy firms sign deals, and local companies drive the next wave of energy development in Africa.

Collaborating for a Just Energy Future

While the world prioritizes the development of renewable energy over traditional energy sources, African countries seek to drive a just energy transition that incorporates a variety of energy solutions. AEW: Invest in African Energies not only promotes a just transition in Africa but offers a platform where global and African energy stakeholders can forge a new pathway for the continent. Discussions in Cape Town will center on strategies for accelerating industrialization, how technologies such as gas-to-power and LNG can reduce emissions while bolstering energy security, and the impact of integrated energy systems on African economies. By driving a narrative of inclusivity, AEW: Invest in African Energies fosters collaboration, partnerships and cross-sector investments.

Policy Alignment, Global Engagement

To attract fresh investment in African energy projects, a slate of countries has enacted policy reforms to strengthen transparency and investor certainty. Nigeria signed the Petroleum Industry Act into law; South Africa launched a new petroleum company; the Republic of Congo is preparing to launch a Gas Master Plan; while Algeria has strengthened regulation to attract local participation in oil and gas projects. In conjunction with improved fiscal terms and rules of engagement, these policies have significantly enhanced the business environment in Africa, making 2025 a strategic year to invest in African energy.

For more information about AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025, visit www.AECWeek.com.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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African Energy Chamber
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Strides being made to reposition eThekwini

Location: News

Strides being made to reposition eThekwini

Stakeholders in the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG) have been working hard to rebuild eThekwini as well as reposition the city as an investment and tourism attraction.

Since its establishment in April 2024, the Working Group has recorded significant developments in service delivery, business confidence, addressing infrastructure and socio-economic challenges.

According to the Working Group’s progress report, business confidence in the city increased from 38.42% in the first quarter of 2024 to 63.01% in the third quarter of the same year.

To respond to the challenges of the municipality, President Cyril Ramaphosa established the eThekwini Presidential Working Group (PeWG) in April 2024. The Working Group was established to accelerate support from national and provincial government to rebuild the municipality.

The Working Group operates across three spheres of government and includes representatives from the private sector and labour.

While recently on a visit around the coastal city to assess the progress of the work by the Working Group, acting Government Spokesperson and Director-General of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), Nomonde Mnukwa, noted an improvement in cleanliness and the high visibility of law enforcement in the metro.

With the recent opening of the Durban Beach Café by the eThekwini Municipality, Mnukwa visited the beachfront, which is a tourist attraction.

“As government, we are working together with the private sector. We want to make sure that eThekwini is an area that attracts tourists, given that tourism is a major contributor to the economy and creates jobs for the locals.

“We are pleased with the renewal of the lease for the Southern Sun Hotel Group as it will see the redevelopment of the Elangeni and Maharani hotels for a period of 50 years. The redevelopment will enable the municipality to enhance the beachfront as a key tourism asset,” she said.

The redevelopment entails an estimated capital investment of R1 billion, including the refurbishment of the Elangeni and Maharani hotels, as well as the Garden Court South Beach and The Edward hotels which are also owned by Southern Sun.

In addition, a fund of R5 million will be made available to restore and maintain the Sunken Gardens, a historically significant park owned by the municipality on the beachfront, in front of the hotels.

“These interventions will ensure that eThekwini is a vibrant city,” she said.

The eThekwini Municipality has also appointed a developer for the long-term leasing and redevelopment of the Joe Cool’s building to further enhance the aesthetics of the beachfront.

With crime being one of the challenges that act as a deterrent to holidaymakers and drive away investors, the Metro Police is working with all law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service, Road Traffic Inspectorate, and private security companies, to maintain high visibility at all tourism sites and areas that have been identified as crime hotspots.

The Metro Police procured an additional 146 vehicles last October to bolster the municipality’s crime fighting and prevention efforts.

In addition, last December, 2 699 newly trained Constables graduated and were deployed to stations and units to bolster the South African Police Service (SAPS) crime combatting efforts. 

“The recent recruitment of new police officers and the work being done as part of Operation Shanela are contributing to efforts to keep citizens safe,” Mnukwa said.

Operation Shanela consists of regular stop and searches, roadblocks, vehicle check points, high visibility patrols including foot patrols, the tracing of wanted suspects with a focus on murder and rape suspects, compliance inspections at liquor outlets and second-hand goods dealers.

Upgrading dilapidated infrastructure  

During her visit to the city, Mnukwa visited the Durban Textile and Leather Incubator (DTLI), which was previously an unused building by the state. It has now been refurbished.

“The city is reviving a number of dilapidated buildings to ensure that the inner city is fully functional, safe and vibrant,” she said. 

DTLI Executive Director, Dr Poppet Pillay, said the building was very old and needed extensive renovation but it was perfectly located in the city centre close to public transport, making it accessible to Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) from anywhere in the province.

“The centre has 12 high-end sewing machines. Entrepreneurs have access to these machines at nominal charge. Seven entrepreneurs were sponsored to participate in the Manufacturing Indaba in July 2023 and 14 entrepreneurs were sponsored to attend the Durban Business Fair in September 2023, thus linking them to the market.

“One of the businesses, Eagle Eye, won the Best Youth SMME award valued at R50 000. Eagle Eye is currently selling branded products at the Edgars store in Gateway Umhlanga. Some of the entrepreneurs are already exporting their clothing brands internationally and one entrepreneur was invited to join the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) programme for leather production,” Pillay said.

Furthermore, two entrepreneurs were sponsored by the Pietermaritzburg Chamber of Commerce to attend the Bharath Textile Fair in India, last year April.

“We are so thrilled to see how our entrepreneurs have grown - not only as a business but also in terms of confidence and ability to market themselves,” she said.

The Incubator is the result of a partnership between the Small Enterprise Development Agency - Science and Technology Programme (SEDA STP) and eThekwini Municipality.

The business incubator supports and grows SMMEs within the Clothing, Textile, Footwear and Leather Sector in eThekwini and surrounding areas by nurturing a business from idea generation to start-up companies through a comprehensive business support programme.

“Besides the normal incubation programme, DTLI has partnered with the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Textile Science and Apparel Technology Dept to run a six-week Ideation Programme for their post-grad students,” Pillay said.

It has also collaborated with the Fibre Processing and Manufacturing Sector Education and Training Authority (FP&M SETA) to run a virtual workshop on Entrepreneurship and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) for 152 SMMEs in the sector.

The incubator has a cohort of 54 SMMEs and provides a range of services that includes technology transfer and access to specialized machines, access to markets, access to funding and financial management, compliance and legal, productivity and business processes. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 01/17/2025 - 13:54

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Law enforcement commended for major abalone bust

Location: News

Law enforcement commended for major abalone bust

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has welcomed the confiscation of over 250 kilograms of abalone in the City of Cape Town.

The City of Cape Town’s Special Operations Unit, Law Enforcement, and the Internal Investigations Unit, successfully intercepted a major poaching operation on Thursday.

“I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the entire team who contributed in any way to the successful operation in Hout Bay.  Thanks to their swift and coordinated efforts, supported by the cutting-edge capabilities of the City’s Eye in the Sky, they managed to successfully stop the  abalone poaching operation. 

“The integration of technology with on-the-ground responses allowed them to track and apprehend suspects in real-time, leading to the confiscation of abalone, a valuable resource that would have otherwise been stolen from our natural environment. This bust represents the kind of proactive, intelligent policing that is crucial in the fight against poaching and other forms of organised crime,” the Minister said on Friday.

George said the arrest of a 22-year-old suspect, who is now in custody at Hout Bay Police Station, highlights government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the city’s natural resources and ensuring the safety and well-being of communities.

“We are also grateful to the officers who, despite facing unwarranted hostility from some members of the community, remained focused on their mission. Such acts of bravery and professionalism exemplify the standard of service we expect from our law enforcement teams.

“This operation, though successful, serves as a reminder of the persistent threat posed by illegal poaching in our coastal region. I hope this success will deter others from engaging in the illegal exploitation of our resources and will encourage all Cape Town residents to stand together in support of law enforcement efforts aimed at protecting their city,” George said. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 01/17/2025 - 11:11

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Deadline for re-marking of 2024 matric scripts draws near 

Location: News

Deadline for re-marking of 2024 matric scripts draws near 

The Department of Basic Education has called on those who would like to apply for the re-mark/re-checking of their examination scripts to do so before the closing date at the end of January.

The re-mark and re-check of 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) scripts opened on 14 January 2025 and will close on 29 January 2025. 

Those who can apply are full-time candidates and part-time candidates (individuals that were upgrading their results). 
The application process and payment for all students for a re-mark, are as follows:

•    Re-mark: R120
•     Re-check: R30 
•     Viewing: R230

Candidates should  note that they may apply at the school/centre where they sat for their 2024 examinations. 
“The results will be released on 7 March 2025 and are to be collected from the school/centre where candidates sat for their examinations. This includes online applications,” the department said in a post on social media platforms X and Facebook.

The department further urged candidates to familiarise themselves with the information at the back of their statement of results. 
Meanwhile, registration for the department’s Second Chance Matric Programme (SCMP) opened in October 2024 and will close on 7 February 2025.

The Second Chance Matric Programme is a matric rewrite programme that was established in 2016 for learners who would like to improve their results or eventually complete their matric qualification on a part-time basis.  

The aim of the programme is to provide support to learners who have not been able to meet the requirements of the NSC or the extended Senior Certificate (SC).

“SC candidates can register at their nearest district office or online on e-Services at https://www.eservices.gov.za/. NSC candidates can only register at their nearest district office,” the department has previously said. 

Additionally, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), Professor Blade Nzimande, has encouraged learners who did not perform well to remain hopeful and explore other options, including various post-school training opportunities, or to consider taking advantage of a second chance to improve their results.

Nzimande made the call as he joined the nation in celebrating the hard work and achievements of the Grade 12 Class of 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Thu, 01/16/2025 - 11:44

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Vodacom Ranked Africa’s Top Employer for Second Consecutive Year

Location: Business
Vodacom Group

Vodacom Group (www.Vodacom.com) has been named Africa's number one employer by the Top Employers Institute for the second year running. This prestigious certification and first place ranking have also been awarded to Vodacom Group, Vodacom South Africa, Vodacom Mozambique, Vodacom Tanzania and Safaricom Kenya.

The Top Employers Institute Companies bestows this accolade to companies based on their performance in key HR domains such as people strategy, work environment, talent acquisition, learning, and well-being.

“We are incredibly proud to be certified as the Top Employer in Africa for the second year in a row. We believe that the well-being of our employees contributes directly to our ability to fulfil our purpose of connecting for a better future. By continually enhancing our Employee Value Proposition through empathetic and inclusive policies and practices, we are cultivating a workplace culture where people feel valued, empowered, and inspired to reach their full potential,” says Shameel Joosub, CEO of Vodacom Group.

In 2024, Vodacom strengthened its Employee Value Proposition with employee offerings that endorse its commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace. With an emphasis on Compassion, Acceptance, Respect and Empathy (C.A.R.E.), the company's enhanced wellness initiatives include support for all stages of life, such as menopause, and a more encompassing family responsibility leave policy.

“Maintaining our position as Africa's Top Employer once again demonstrates our dedication to enabling our employees to thrive. However, our focus on nurturing talent and career development in the tech industry extends to the millions of young people across the continent who are the future of work. There is an urgent need to prepare the next generation for the rapidly evolving digital economy. To this end, we have launched the Digital Skills Hub, with the goal to equip one million young people in Africa by 2027 by providing access to self-paced, digital skills training for those aged between 18 and 35,” says Matimba Mbungela, Chief Human Resources Officer at Vodacom Group.

Developed in collaboration with other tech organisations, including Amazon Web Services and Microsoft, the Vodacom Digital Skills Hub aims to boost digital literacy across Africa, bridging the digital skills gap across eight African countries including in South Africa, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Mozambique, Lesotho, Egypt, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Kenya.

The Vodacom Digital Skills Hub is designed to empower the next generation, to consider a career in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), and entails fun and engaging practical digital skills training for young people on the continent. AWS Educate is one of the first programs to be offered through the Digital Skills Hub and an additional program to Vodacom's various existing online learning platforms. AWS Educate offers beginners an extensive library of self-paced online training that covers a range of topics from cloud fundamentals to artificial intelligence and machine learning.

“As we embark on a new year, we want to encourage young people, whether they're students, job seekers or aspiring entrepreneurs, to benefit from the Digital Skills Hub. By supporting digital skills training as a Top Employer, we are empowering the next workforce and ensuring that everyone can connect to a better future,” concludes Joosub.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Vodacom Group.

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Top matriculant Rayyan Ebrahim humbled by his achievement

Location: News

Top matriculant Rayyan Ebrahim humbled by his achievement

Top academic achiever in the country, 19-year-old Rayyan Ebrahim, from Pinelands High School in the Western Cape, has expressed overwhelming pride and gratitude for being able to bag that honour.  

Brimming with excitement, Ebrahim was announced as the overall top achiever by Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, during the official release of the NSC results on Monday evening.

Ebrahim's stellar academic performance includes nine distinctions and an impressive aggregate of 97.57%. He achieved 99% in Further Studies Mathematics (Standard), 100% in Physical Science, 97% in Mathematics, Computer Applications Technology (CAT), and Afrikaans, as well as 98% in Accounting.

Pinelands High School celebrated Ebrahim’s accomplishments in a Facebook post, highlighting that he placed in the Top 1% of candidates for Further Studies Mathematics (FSM) Standard (Calculus and Algebra) in South Africa which is “a phenomenal achievement!” 

The school said Further Studies Mathematics (FSM) is a rigorous academic subject administered by the IEB as part of the new IEB International Secondary Certificate and is certified separately from the NSC qualification.

He also obtained 95% A* in Further Studies Mathematics (Extended), Further Studies, 86% A in Mathematics – Matrices and Graph Theory and 99% A* in Further Studies: Mathematics Standard (Calculus & Algebra). 

Speaking to SAnews, the top student described the moment his name was announced as surreal.

He said that when his name was announced he felt like he just didn't register what was happening, however he focused on going up to the stage in disbelief.  

“I just felt so overwhelmed, and I was really in disbelief regarding the announcement of being the top achiever in the country. But yeah, I am just so humbled by the achievement, and so grateful to be recognised for my hard work,” he said. 

Reflecting on his matric journey, Ebrahim admitted it was a challenging year, marked by high expectations and moments of self-doubt. 

“My matric year was quite a tumultuous one. It was overwhelming at times and I tended to put a lot of pressure on myself to do well, and so I just had to constantly affirm myself that, you know, my best was good enough.

“I constantly just did my best and relied a lot on the support from my family and my friends who always wished me well and affirmed that I could do well,” he said. 

Ebrahim explained that his study routine involved waking up early in the mornings to study, which is when he was the most productive. He also made use of online resources, like study guides, YouTube videos, for those concepts that he was struggling to understand. 

“I also used to tutor my friends as well, in Maths during holidays. And we'd work through past papers together, and we would just brainstorm ideas and try to teach other new ways of approaching the problem,” he said. 

Looking ahead, Ebrahim plans to study Data Science at the University of Cape Town. He is drawn to the interdisciplinary nature of the field, which combines mathematics, programming, and statistics to extract insights from data.

He said that he chose the course because of his love for Maths and the fact that it is relevant to the needs of the country. 

“I'm so excited about getting into a dynamic career field that is so relevant to the needs of South Africa. My love for Mathematics and its relevance to the country’s future inspired my choice,” he explained. 

Advising the matric class of 2025, the student emphasised consistent effort and a balanced life for success.

“Matric is a very challenging year. It's very long and busy, but if you just work consistently throughout the year, and you stay on top of your work, and by the time you reach your final exam, you will be more than well prepared. 

“I think it's important to live a balanced life while you're studying. So, there is always time to make for your family, or exercising and enjoy your matric year, while also getting the marks that you want,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Wed, 01/15/2025 - 15:24

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Transforming eThekwini into a safer city

Location: News

Transforming eThekwini into a safer city

The city of eThekwini is famous for its year round warm weather; its pristine beaches; its rich Zulu heritage and its friendly people.

These attractions make the coastal city an ideal place for investors to do business in Durban.

However, in recent years, the economic powerhouse of KwaZulu-Natal has lost some of its appeal due to among other things, contamination at its beaches, a decline in tourism, water supply challenges, an increase in crime, dilapidated infrastructure and challenges with maintaining cleanliness.

To return the city to its former glory, President Cyril Ramaphosa established the eThekwini Working Group (PeWG) in April 2024.

The PeWG is a multi-stakeholder mechanism crafted to address critical service delivery, infrastructure and socio-economic challenges within the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality with the goal of positioning the city as an investment and tourism hub.

It operates across three spheres of government and includes representatives from the private sector and labour.

With crime being one of the challenges that act as a deterrent to holidaymakers and drive away investors in the city, the South African Police Service (SAPS) working together with the city, has increased crime combating operations and deployed more boots on the ground to ensure visibility. 

In the lead up to the festive season, between 1 October and 15 November 2024, over 31 491 law enforcement officers from SAPS and 1538 metro police officers were deployed in eThekwini to enhance community safety through high-density operations. These operations are ongoing and continued throughout the festive season.

Speaking exclusively to SAnews about law enforcement operations in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, said the collaboration with the Metro Police and other law enforcement agencies was producing great results.

“As the SAPS, working together with the Metro Police and other law enforcement agencies, we have been able to push back on crime. We have been able to increase patrols, intelligence collection and crime combating operations. 

“We have also been able to create an environment that enables business to operate. Our mission is to create a conducive environment for business to operate and function so that our citizens can get employment," Mkhwanazi said.

According to the progress report by the Working Group, business confidence in 2024 increased by 24.59%. In the first quarter, business confidence stood at 38.42% and increased to 63.01% in the third quarter.

“We must appreciate the intervention from national government through the Working Group. With the collaborative efforts of working with other government departments that are driving tourism and the security cluster, we have seen an increase in the recruitment of metro police officers that joined the service to ensure that we have more officers on the ground.

“As the SAPS, we have also received new Constables that were recruited and deployed in this area to ensure visibility on the ground. We are deploying strategically in key areas that are a hotspot for crime, and we have been able to reduce criminal activities in those areas,” he said.

As a result, residents can enjoy going for a jog at the beach front as early as 4am in the morning, as law enforcement operations are being implemented around the clock.

“We have maximum visibility by using blue light patrols which enables people to see our presence when the sun goes down. Anyone witnessing crime can easily reach out to law enforcement officials.

“We have increased the foot patrols to ensure that we can reach places that we would ordinarily not see when we are driving in the vehicles. We have procured motorbikes and deployed bicycles in the beachfront as well as in the city.

“We are confident with the operations that we are running in the city. We are seeing an increase in tourists visiting the city and business confidence. We are also partnering with the private sector’s security companies that are looking after business establishments in the city,” Mkhwanazi said.

Last November, the city announced that it was transferring its Closed-Circuit Television Cameras (CCTV) to the Metro Police Unit and Fire and Emergency Unit for management to enhance crime fighting and public safety while ensuring coordinated efforts to respond effectively to disasters.

The transfer included the Emergency Mobilising and Communication Centre (EMACC) and the technical services functions, which are being transferred to the Information Management Unit under the Office of the City Manager.

“In the past, these cameras were being controlled by Disaster Management, which was a challenge for law enforcement to utilise and operate them. With the transfer, the police have easy access to the cameras and as a result the response time to crime is shorter.

“Law enforcement can respond with speed because we have police officers monitoring the cameras and guide the members on the ground to respond to criminal activities. These are some of the results that we are seeing due to the work of the Working Group. Technology play a big role in in our crime fighting efforts,” the provincial Police Commissioner said.

Between 1 October and 15 November 2024, operations by SAPS officers and metro police officers saw 1 500 arrests, 150 undocumented persons were arrested, 322 suspects were arrested for the illegal possession of firearms and 58 949 drugs were recovered. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 01/15/2025 - 14:53

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Matrics who didn’t do well urged to pursue post-school training

Location: News

Matrics who didn’t do well urged to pursue post-school training

The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), Professor Blade Nzimande, has encouraged learners who did not perform well to remain hopeful and explore other options, including various post-school training opportunities, or to consider taking advantage of a second chance to improve their results.

Nzimande made the call as he joined the nation in celebrating the hard work and achievements of the Grade 12 Class of 2024. 

“As Minister responsible for the development and promotion of science, technology, and innovation in South Africa, I fully share the concerns of the Minister of Basic Education that our learners in Grades 5 to 9 significantly underperform in relation to their global counterparts in mathematics and science,” the Minister said in a statement.

Nzimande noted a decline in enrolments in critical subjects, such as physical sciences, mathematics, accounting, and economics, according to data. 

These subjects are essential for a nation’s progress in science, innovation, and economic development.

In the next five years, Nzimande said the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation will actively support government efforts to enhance the performance of the schooling system in science and mathematics subjects.

The Minister believes that the nation requires massive and sustained growth in the production of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) graduates, if South Africa is to forge a technology-led future.

“It is for this reason that we, as the DSTI have adopted the mantra, which says: Placing science, technology, and innovation at the centre of government, education, industry and society," Nzimande said.

As part of the department’s contribution to addressing the maths and science-related challenges in the basic education sector, Nzimande said the department will seek to strengthen its existing cooperation with the Department of Basic Education, which is supported by cooperation agreements with the nine provincial departments of education. 

In addition, the department has vowed to also strengthen existing cooperation with the Department of Higher Education, which is the main department in respect of higher education skills development, which includes science skills development. 

“We are currently implementing several extra-curricular and non-formal activities in the basic education sector, whose main objective is to excite learners about maths and science and contribute towards improved learner performance in maths and science. 

"These activities include the flagship science engagement program known as National Science Week (NSW), career guidance, and the distribution of Science, Engineering, and Technology (SET) career materials at various events, communities, and schools," Nzimande said.

He added that the department believes that the Mathematics Olympiads are extremely important, as they help develop the problem-solving skills of learners. 

In 2023, more than 77 000 learners participated in the South African Mathematics Olympiad (SAMO), a science engagement activity that focuses on high school learners. 

In 2024, more than 84 000 primary school learners participated in the South African Mathematics Challenge. 

“We believe that all our science awareness and engagement interventions are not just critical for enhancing learner performance in maths and science, but also to enable our strategic goal of placing science, technology, and innovation at the centre of government, education, industry, and society.” 

For additional information on accessing careers in science and training materials, please contact the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, Deputy Director for Science Promotion, Bersan Lesch at 071 112 6236 or Bersan.Lesch@dsti.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Wed, 01/15/2025 - 10:42

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The Just Energy Transition in Africa: Lessons From South Africa and Senegal

Location: News
African Energy Chamber

By NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber (https://EnergyChamber.org).

Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETP) have been introduced in recent years to provide financial support to developing nations as they transition away from fossil fuels. In 2021, during the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26), South Africa became the first nation to sign such a deal. Senegal and the International Partners Group (IGP) signed a JETP in June 2023.

I have said before that the best way for Western countries, and the developed world at large, to help Africa transition from fossil fuels is through investment and collaboration, not patronization. This is precisely what the JETP programs seek to do, assist energy emerging economies that are dependent on coal to transition away from fossil fuels while leaving room to address the associated social consequences. That is investment, that is collaboration, and above all, it is respectful of the reality that Africa can move only on its own schedule in this matter. Arbitrarily forbidding us from using our natural resources will only do more harm than good.

So far, South Africa and Senegal are the only African countries to have agreed to a JETP, with South Africa securing a deal for USD8.5 billion, while Senegal secured one for USD2.7 billion. How South Africa and Senegal intend to leverage these deals differ drastically, however, as do their power generation circumstances.

South Africa: Pulled Between Priorities

Coal continues to dominate South Africa's energy portfolio, at over 80% of the country's power generation mix. Due to chronic load shedding and energy shortage issues, the country is now being pulled between two priorities, ensuring energy security and adhering to its decarbonization plans. General power outages have plagued the country since 2008 but intensified in recent years and effectively hamstrung South Africa's economy, which has not surpassed even 1% gross domestic product (GDP) annual growth in the last decade.

The country's aging coal fleet faces significant maintenance issues which led to several of the country's largest coal units being rendered inoperable in 2023. That year also saw the worst load shedding the country has faced yet, more than twice what it experienced in 2022, leading to energy shortages for 335 days out of the year. This load shedding led to a sharp increase in demand for solar panels and batteries, but Eskom (South Africa's power utility) has had to prioritize energy security instead, prolonging its reliance on coal-fired plants and slowing down their decommissioning. To their credit, Eskom has made significant improvements to their coal plants' maintenance and repair thanks to a recovery strategy launched in early 2023, and they have not suffered another load-shedding event since March 26, 2024.

Nevertheless, the decision to prolong their reliance on coal is at odds with South Africa's JETP. It has also directly led to the South African government seeking renegotiation of finance deals tied to its transition to cleaner energy sources, amounting to some USD2.6 billion of the originally agreed to USD8.5 billion.

Above all, right now South Africa requires a solution that will ensure its energy security while also keeping the country on track with its JETP commitments, especially given its peak demand by 2030 is expected to reach 38 gigawatts (GW), a full 6 GW more than its current peak. And even though 13.6 GW of new power plants are expected to come online by 2027, with solar PV accounting for over half and onshore wind accounting for 25% of the new capacity, coal is still expected to meet two-thirds of daily demand. Battery storage assets awarded by South Africa's Battery Energy Storage Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme (BESIPPP) will also contribute to this new capacity. Renewable-based generation in South Africa is also expected to grow from nearly 14.1% currently to nearly 29% by 2030.

I want to be very clear here: South Africa's renewable energy growth is commendable, and Eskom's decision to prioritize energy security via coal when an alternative solution wasn't immediately available was understandable and pragmatic. But the country's renewables are not advancing fast enough to cover for the aging of its coal fleet, and no amount of emergency maintenance campaigns can ensure that similar issues won't lead to a load-shedding crisis again. If unaddressed, it will introduce the risk of shortfalls when the coal fleet is inevitably shut down at its end of life. Gas-to-power is thus the most prudent option for South Africa to prioritize while it continues working to expand its renewable power sources. The flexibility provided by gas-to-power will help meet demand once the coal fleet can no longer provide South Africa's baseload power, leaving it with only its Koeberg nuclear power plant and currently limited solar and hydropower resources to fill in the gap. Not only is natural gas more cost-effective and efficient as a power source than coal, but it is also relatively cheap to retrofit a formerly coal-fired plant with gas turbines, allowing South Africa to both gradually phase out coal while saving money that would otherwise be spent building entirely new infrastructure. All of this will matter a great deal, as South Africa anticipates phasing out coal to require USD99 billion dollars between 2023 and 2027. So far, it has raised half between their JETP deal with the IGP, USD33 billion in private sector investments, and USD10 billion from the public sector. South Africa hopes to fill the gap through both domestic and international private entities in the form of grants, guarantees, and concessional loans.

Fewer Struggles in Senegal

Senegal, meanwhile, looks to be having fewer troubles, being reliant on liquid fuel sources rather than coal. The USD2.7 billion raised through its JETP is expected to attract and mobilize further investments from both the private and public sectors, much the same as South Africa. Senegal, however, will also be receiving technical assistance from its international partners to boost the integration of its renewable energy infrastructure and technology, with a heavy focus on grid stabilization and battery storage. This aligns well with its electrification plans, which aim to achieve 40% of its installed capacity mix provided by renewables by 2030, up considerably from the current 22%.  Senegal has also committed to developing an investment plan within 12 months to identify its needs, opportunities, and allocations to meet its targets.

To that same end, Senegal plans to publish a revised nationally determined contribution (NDC) at COP30, set to take place in late 2025. The current NDC outlines an unconditional target of 235 MW of solar PV, 150 MW of onshore wind, and 314 MW of hydro by 2030. With international assistance, these targets are set to rise to 335 MW of solar PV, 250 MW of onshore wind, 50 MW of bioenergy and 50 MW of solar thermal.

Overall, both South Africa and Senegal stand to benefit significantly from their JETPs, and this is a trend I hope to see continue in the future for African states. There are, of course, growing pains. JETPs are still a nascent program, and the first few deals were signed as political promises first and foremost before the full technical and coordination details could be fully worked out by all sides. The implementation process for South Africa and Senegal has thus been delayed while consultations and negotiations smooth over the logistical details. In addition, JETPs alone will be nowhere near enough to fully cover the financial burden of transitioning African countries away from fossil fuels, and acquiring the private financial investments to bridge the gap may prove difficult for many countries.

This is why it is crucial for African states, and the world at large, to keep a close eye on how things develop in South Africa and Senegal, as their efforts to address these challenges will no doubt set the example for others.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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KZN on track towards its 90% target, Premier

Location: News

KZN on track towards its 90% target, Premier

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has joined in the jubilation as the province proudly secured second position in the 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results.

KwaZulu-Natal achieved an impressive 89.5% pass rate, representing a 3.1% improvement from the previous year, and positions the province as the second-best performing in South Africa, following the Free State.

Ntuli officially announced the 2024 matric results during a prestigious ceremony at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC) in Durban on Tuesday.

“This is proof that the essential foundation of basic education in KwaZulu-Natal is being laid brick by brick, district by district, school by school, and learner by learner,” Ntuli said.

Ntuli said the provincial government was firmly on track towards its 90% target, and he had “no doubt this performance will be surpassed in 2025”.

Of 161 962 learners who sat for the National Senior Certificate exams in the province, 144 990 learners passed, with 84 000 Bachelor passes, which is the highest in the country, marking a significant improvement from 45.7% in 2023 to 52.2% in 2024.

The province also saw an increase in schools achieving a 100% pass rate, from 246 in 2023 to 321 in 2024.

The district performances also showed an impressive growth, with Umkhanyakude leading nationally at 92.8%, followed by Ugu (91.7%) and Umlazi (89.8%).

Ntuli commended the provincial Education Department and MEC Sipho Hlomuka for their unwavering commitment to academic excellence.

The Premier acknowledged the invaluable contributions of educators, including school governing bodies and organised labour.

Special recognition was given to top achievers and schools, including special and correctional services centres, which achieved a 100% pass rate.

He encouraged the learners who did not pass to enrol for the Second Chance Matric Programme, to improve their results.

“Success is not measured by how many times you fall, but by how many times you rise. Never give up,” the Premier said.

Ntuli further encouraged learners to embrace the evolving job market and equip themselves with skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, to remain competitive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).

“You are our future in the making. Grab every opportunity with both hands. KwaZulu-Natal is counting on you to make our province a better place for all.”

Hlomuka commended the matriculants’ perseverance, determination, and commitment.

“The matric class of 2024 commenced their high school journey during the peak of COVID-19 and faced unprecedented challenges, including climate impacts. but they triumphed,” Hlomuka said.

Hlomuka commended uMkhanyakude District for leading with an outstanding 92.8%, as well as teachers in the province for their dedication.

"A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated educators, parents, and stakeholders for their unwavering support. The journey towards educational excellence continues, as we empower future leaders for a brighter tomorrow," Hlomuka said. - SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 01/14/2025 - 15:23

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Mukuru Launches Mobile Wallet in Zimbabwe to Bolster Financial Inclusion

Location: News
MukuruNext-generation financial services platform Mukuru (www.Mukuru.com) has launched a mobile wallet in Zimbabwe called Mukuru Wallet. The secure digital store of value follows Mukuru's award of a Deposit-Taking Microfinance Institution (DTMFI) licence in Zimbabwe by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe.

Building on Mukuru's trusted capabilities, which support more than three-million Zimbabwean customers, the wallet has several benefits, including its standout features: two pockets that allow users to send and receive money locally and internationally from mobile phones, safe storage of funds as well as a free cashout on international transfers.

Marc Carrie-Wilson, Send Money Home Zimbabwe CEO says: “The Mukuru Wallet is a significant development in the country because we have built a reputable brand by consistently ensuring cash availability when needed. To avoid disappointing people who travel long distances to receive their remittances which they use for food, school fees and other essential services, we now have 250 of our own service points. With a network stretching across urban and rural areas, we can reach more people than ever, providing constant cash availability and valuable digital solutions, such as the Mukuru Wallet, to the underserved communities.”

Mukuru Zimbabwe Financial Services CEO, Doug Tait-Knight, says: “Mukuru takes its role as a fintech driving financial inclusion seriously. With this wallet, we tap into our strength which lies in our robust network and technology, as well as our crispy notes that are always available, making this an exciting moment in our evolution in Zimbabwe.

“The wallet environment enables us to start providing additional value such as allowing more affordable domestic money transfers, supporting safety by eliminating the need for customers to walk around with large sums of money, and providing convenience and cost savings, such as paying for electricity, buying airtime, settling DSTV bills and paying for insurance from their couch. Our use of multiple channels also ensures accessibility for our customers,” explains Tait-Knight.

While currently focusing on private end users, soon organisations will be able to partner with Mukuru to make use of its local capabilities and global footprint to facilitate payments, such as distributing money to farmers, supporting payroll for small businesses and securing traceable aid distributions. Various organisations such as Cottco and the United Nations, through the World Food Programme, and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) already partner with Mukuru.

Kevin Nyakotyo, Mukuru's Enterprise Sales Manager for Zimbabwe and Zambia, added, “Our success in the end-user sector has enabled us to set in motion plans to enter the business sector. Whether it is for tobacco or cotton, payments made to farmers are often large sums of money. The Mukuru Wallet will make receiving these large sums of money far safer because beneficiaries won't need to draw all their cash at the same time.

“We have a mandate to educate the market based on trends we see, and with this wallet, we are reaching out to both organisations and individuals and giving them peace of mind to know their funds will be safe and can be collected at any time. They can draw an amount that suits them with full confidence the cash will be available wherever they are, whenever they need it,” says Nyakotyo.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mukuru.

Notes to Editor: 
Mukuru is a leading next generation financial services platform in Southern Africa that offers affordable and reliable financial services to a customer base of over 17 million+  across Africa, Asia and Europe.

With over 100 million transactions to date, our core was built providing international money transfers and from this base, we've developed a set of services to address the broader financial needs of our customers. We now operate in over 60 countries and across over 500 remittance corridors.

We are a business that puts the customer at the centre of everything we do, and for that reason, we serve clients across physical and digital channels, by various payment methods (cash, card, wallet) as well as a range of engagement platforms including WhatsApp, USSD, contact centre, App, website, agents and a branch and booth network.

Mukuru has, for the fifth consecutive year, been listed as one of the top 100 Cross Border Payments businesses in the world in the 2024 FXC Intelligence Top 100 Cross-Border Payment Companies (https://apo-opa.co/3PCjAkY), one of only six African companies to receive this accolade.

In 2023, Mukuru officially ranked sixth on the LinkedIn Top Companies List in South Africa.

Mukuru was celebrated for innovation and excellence at the 2023 Africa Tech Festival Awards, receiving the Fintech Innovation of the Year Award - an acknowledgment of the transformative power of financial technology in driving economic growth, financial inclusion, and digital transformation. Visit www.Mukuru.com to learn more.

Media Enquiries:
Ammaarah Kootbodien
ammaarah@duomarketing.co.za
(+27) 071 529 6449

Kgomotso Hlakudi 
kgomotso.hlakudi@mukuru.com
(+27) 073 333 1672

Mthokozisi Dube
mtho.dube@lalataucomms.co.za
(+27) 81 790 2070

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SA’s natural resources can drive inclusive growth: President Ramaphosa

Location: News

SA’s natural resources can drive inclusive growth: President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa’s tourism sector, largely underpinned by its natural endowments, has great potential to drive inclusive growth.

“As the festive season makes way for the start of the new year, many South Africans have been returning home from different parts of the country. Some people have been visiting family, while others have been exploring new places.

“This is a time of year when we get to appreciate why our country is such an attractive destination for visitors. We are blessed with natural splendour that is an integral part of our national heritage. It is an asset to our economy that every year draws millions of tourists from around the world to our shores,” the President said in his newsletter to the nation on Monday.

Over the past week, the President was in the Western Cape and visited Robben Island, which is one of the country’s major tourism attractions. A leading industry publication recently ranked Robben Island, alongside Table Mountain and the Kruger National Park, as among the top tourist attractions on the continent.

Beyond the substantial natural resource endowments of the beaches, national parks and biodiversity conservation areas, cultural and heritage tourism is also thriving in South Africa.

“We are home to 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include Robben Island and the Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng, which has among the largest known concentrations of Hominid fossils in the world.

“Last year, the World Economic Forum ranked South Africa as Africa’s premier tourism destination. It said this was due to factors such as our business operating environment, information technology and tourism infrastructure and services,” President Ramaphosa said.

Following a slump in tourism numbers as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, inbound tourism is on the rise. In 2023, South Africa recorded around 8.5 million international tourist arrivals. These visitors spent over R95 billion.

Domestic tourism is the mainstay of the tourism economy. Between January and July last year, South Africans took over 21 million trips to explore their country.

President Ramaphosa said the tourism sector has the potential to be even larger than it currently is.

“We are scaling up a range of tourism promotion strategies to restore inbound tourism figures to pre-pandemic levels. These strategies include an improved tourism visa regime, streamlining the tour operator license process, increased investment in tourism infrastructure and services, and improving safety and security at tourism sites.”

The tourism sector in South Africa employs about 1.5 million people both directly and indirectly. Through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, South Africa continues to support job creation by providing work opportunities for young people as tourism monitors in different provinces and supporting tourism-related SMMEs.

Tourism is a growth area for small business development. In line with the global shift towards sustainability, figures from South African Tourism show that increasing numbers of new tourism ventures are centred around sustainable tourism and eco-friendly business practices.

This year, South Africa will host the first ever summit of the G20 on African soil. 

“We will use this opportunity to profile and actively promote South Africa as a tourism destination of choice,” President Ramaphosa said.

According to UN Tourism, the G20 economies represent over 70% of all international tourist arrivals worldwide and 82% of tourism’s global GDP. Just as Brazil did last year during its hosting of the G20 Summit, South Africa will promote the role of tourism in creating jobs and advancing sustainable development in the countries of the Global South.

The Government of National Unity has identified the growth of tourism as a vital part of creating employment. In October last year, the Minister of Tourism released a new White Paper on the Development and Promotion of Tourism in South Africa. This will guide our approach to building a sustainable, competitive and inclusive tourism industry.

“By working together as government, business and communities, we can ensure that the natural splendour of our country becomes a driver of economic growth, job creation and shared prosperity,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Mon, 01/13/2025 - 10:11

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A Booming Continent Needs a New Payment Infrastructure

Location: Business
MultiChoice Group

Africa is an exciting, vibrant and creative place to do business. But make no mistake, it has its challenges. Currency devaluation, political instability, and service disruptions are endemic. Africa is not for sissies, as the saying goes.

In navigating those challenges, relationships matter. It's not so much about throwing money at a problem, it's about investing time, building trust, meeting with partners and regulators, and understanding each other's needs.

Africa offers an enormous upside for those prepared to make this time investment. The continent's population is set to reach 2.5 billion (http://apo-opa.co/3W7Kp4w) by 2050, and Africa's people are embracing digital technology, as the World Bank (http://apo-opa.co/3Waln4F) confirms. They are leveraging digital connectivity to improve their lives, educate themselves, send remittances, and start small enterprises. There is value in investing in that level of human development.

The payments opportunity

Running through this African growth trajectory is a particular business thread: payments (http://apo-opa.co/3WawLxk). There are opportunities for anyone who can simplify, rationalise and standardise payments for the continent's dynamic financial economy.

An organisation in just such a position is MultiChoice (www.Multichoice.com/), the leading pan-African video entertainment provider for almost 40 years. In building a pay-TV network across the continent, with up to 23.5 million (http://apo-opa.co/3WawOJw) customers across 50+ markets, and 100 million+ monthly viewers, MultiChoice also built relationships across the continent to collect payments, for DStv, GOtv, and Showmax – potentially the only large enterprise to need such enormous breadth.

The Group has converted the opportunity that this represents, partnering with global venture-capital firm General Catalyst and payments company Rapyd to launch Moment (http://apo-opa.co/4ad1H5N), which aims to be the broadest, deepest payment network across Africa.

Launching with Showmax and DStv as initial clients, Moment started processing payments for parts of the group in January 2024. By November 2024 MultiChoice was already collecting around 35% of its revenue through Moment rails, and those numbers are rising quickly. Services to other enterprises were rolled out in August.

Moment already collects and disburses across 44 African countries, accepting 200+ local payment methods – spanning in-person payments at over 1 million store and agent locations, mobile money, credit and debit cards, bank transfers, and digital wallets.

Enabling consumers and businesses to move from cash to digital, Moment and its network offers users access to better financial opportunities, lower prices, higher quality goods and services, and full access to the digitally enabled economy.

Expanding the ecosystem

To access the initial target market of large enterprises that will benefit from the reach, breadth, and high performance needed by MultiChoice, Moment has built out a fully cloud-native infrastructure. The platform can deliver on the high daily and weekly loads needed for one of the largest billing bases on the continent, and also smoothly deal with the potential for network outages, power cuts, and other disruptions.

In order to ensure businesses have access to the daily cash flow they need, Moment has built a robust financial reconciliation and settlement system capable of automating and simplifying the daily reconciliation process for enterprises and enabling them to spend tight staffing budgets efficiently, while getting fast, accurate financial reporting and access to their receivables.

To help these enterprise customers expand their customer bases, Moment opens up the largest mass-market suite of payment channels through its network, enabling businesses to fully tap into the mass market's buying power for the first time with a single API connection – providing access to more than a million in-person payment locations across spaza shops, modern retail locations, and a host of online payment options tuned to the needs of each local market.

To ensure that Moment's clients and the market are ready for the future, Moment is building a “coalition” around real-time payments, to educate consumers on the benefits of PayShap and other real-time payment methods that can significantly reduce cost and increase payment speed. DStv and Moment launched PayShap payments in South Africa as the first “consumer to business” real-time payment option built on South Africa's RPP payments system. Moment has developed partnerships with similar systems in the SADC countries and Nigeria to expand real-time payments as the market evolves.

Simplifying the process

One of the reasons MultiChoice first looked at the payments space was precisely because it is a complex environment, characterised by multiple service agreements, commission rates and exchange rates. It made sense to try to simplify the payments landscape, for everyone's benefit.

Africa is a challenging territory, but Africans are agile and innovative. Trends and new solutions emerge constantly. Any platform entering this space must recognise that there isn't one answer; there are many. By partnering with MultiChoice, Moment has built out technology with the flexibility to configure the right solution for each market.

The upsides of building for the challenging scale of MultiChoice as a launch client are significant – other enterprises Moment is working with have built unwieldy daily financial operations to manage their own complexity. Anecdotally, one merchant maintains a staff of 75 people doing reconciliations for their business – operations that can be automated and streamlined leveraging the Moment platform. Moment presents a vast opportunity in simplifying that process, automating it, while enabling customers to focus on their core business and customer relationships.

Africa is the largest single opportunity in the world. As our population booms over the next 20 years, many new business foundations will need to be laid across the continent – especially in the area of payments.

Payments are the lifeblood of Africa's economy. Enabling them efficiently and cost-effectively, across the continent, ensures Africa performs to its full potential. Through the partnership with MultiChoice, Moment is well positioned to be at the core of this transformation for decades to come.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.

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Merck Foundation CEO Announced the Best African Women Researchers and African Young Researchers

Location: News
Merck Foundation

  • Merck Foundation announced the winners of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS Awards winners 2024, 5 Researchers from 5 different African Countries recognized under two categories - Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers.
  • Merck Foundation also announced the Call for Applications for new edition of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS Awards 2025 to empower Women and Youth in STEM in Africa with special focus on ‘The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care'.

​Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, announced the Winners of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2024, in partnership with International Federation of Fertility Societies -IFFS, Africa Reproductive Care Society - ARCS, Manipal University and African Union Scientific Technical Research Commission to recognize African Researchers for their valuable research work and contribution to empowering women and youth in STEM in Africa with special focus on ‘The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care'.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit - MARS expressed, “Since 2016, I have taken immense pride in recognizing the achievements of our MARS Awards winners. This year, we honor Six Winners in two categories: ‘Best African Women Researchers Awards' and ‘Best African Young Researchers Awards.'

These awards celebrate their significant contributions to research, particularly highlighting the efforts of African women researchers, who remain underrepresented in this field. Through the MARS Awards, our mission is to empower young researchers in Africa and to specifically encourage and support women researchers by enhancing their research capabilities and promoting their vital roles in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).”

The winners of ‘Best African Women Researchers Awards' and ‘Best Young African Researcher Awards' will be enrolled into research training at a premier research institute in India.

“And I am also very happy to share with you all that as promised, we provided an opportunity to our first-place winner of each category to attend the 11th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary which was recently conducted in Tanzania, however, only Mr. Jules Irenge Mongane was able to attend it”, shared Senator Rasha Kelej.

Merck Foundation is committed to improving the lives of people and has been transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with its partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, by providing 2080 Scholarships for doctors from 52 Countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

The MARS 2024 Award Winners are:

Winners of “MARS Best Women African Researchers Awards” 2024

  • Dr. Nompumelelo Lebogang Malaza, SOUTH AFRICA (First Position)

TOPIC: Association Between Biochemical And Epigenetic Markers With Glycaemic Control And Neonatal Outcomes In Diabetic Pregnancies

  • Dr. Dorotheah Obiri, GHANA (Second Position)

TOPIC: Immune dysregulation in placental malaria and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy

Winners of “MARS Best Young African Researchers Awards” 2024

  • Dr. Jules Irenge Mongane, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO (First Position)

TOPIC: Association Between Bacterial Vaginosis, Chlamydia Trachomatis Infection And Tubal Factor Infertility In Bukavu, Democratic Republic Of Congo

  • Dr. Christian Chassem Lapue, GABON (Second Position)

TOPIC: Epidemiology of helminthiases in women of reproductive age living in Lambaréné and its surroundings, Gabon

  • Dr. Gebrhud Berihu Haile, ETHIOPIA (Second Position)

TOPIC: Incidence of neonatal mortality and factors influencing neonate survival in  neonatal intensive care unit in Northern Ethiopia: a prospective cohort study

“I am also excited to announce the Call for Applications for the new edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2024. This year, special focus will be again on “The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care,” added Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit - MARS 2025 will have scientific support from African Union Scientific-Technical and Research Commission (AU-STRC); African Reproductive Care Society (ARCS), and Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE).

Details for MARS AWARDS 2025

Abstracts are invited from final year African PhD students and young investigators involved in research related to either of the following topics:

1) Women's Health

2) Infertility and Reproductive Health

All applicants should be primarily based at African Research Institutes and Universities, although collaboration within Africa as well as outside is also welcome.

Last Date of Submission:

Applications can be submitted till 30th June 2025

How to apply:

Apply by clicking: https://apo-opa.co/406P6N1

Alternatively, the Applications and abstracts can be submitted via email to mars@merck-foundation.com, along with CV (including Name, Gender, Country, University/Hospital Name, Email address, Mobile Number) and the abstract document as an attachment.

Other Details:

  • All Abstracts will be peer reviewed.
  • Research Awards will be dedicated for two categories of Best African Women Researchers and Best Young Africa Researchers.
  • Winners will be eligible for Research Training in a prestigious Research Institute in India.
  • Top Winners will be invited to attend the 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact details:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
+91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

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About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/422rSKr), X (https://apo-opa.co/425eC7X), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/40ogTKb), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4h62x6H), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/3DKxNtP) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4h2Lt1q).

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.

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Special Official Funeral to honour SA’s first democratic Education Minister Sibusiso Bengu

Location: News

Special Official Funeral to honour SA's first democratic Education Minister Sibusiso Bengu

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that the late Professor Sibusiso Bengu, the first Minister of Education in democratic South Africa, will receive a Special Official Funeral Category 2.

Bengu passed away on 30 December 2024 at the age of 90. 

President Ramaphosa has expressed his deepest condolences to the family and friends of the Professor, who served as South Africa’s Ambassador to Germany from 1999 to 2003.

Bengu’s Special Official Funeral Category 2 will be held at the University of Zululand in KwaZulu-Natal on Friday, 10 January 2025. 

Proceedings will include ceremonial elements rendered by the South African Police Service. 

President Ramaphosa has directed that the National Flag be flown at half-mast at flag stations around the country from Tuesday, 7 January 2025, until the evening of the funeral. 

Last week, President Ramaphosa praised Bengu as a pioneering leader in the country’s democratic governance and administration. 

He highlighted Bengu’s role in transforming education during the first Government of National Unity, a time when there were significant divisions regarding the extent of the transformation.

“Under apartheid, the injustice of unequal education had been at the core of consigning most citizens to intergenerational economic exclusion, poverty, and indignity,” President Ramaphosa said.

He also highlighted that the Education Act, formulated under Bengu’s leadership and adopted by the country’s fledgling Parliament, was a cornerstone of its liberation and unleashed the human potential of all South Africans.

The former Education Minister is recognised for leading the unification of 17 fragmented education departments into a single system, and addressing the structural inequalities of apartheid education.

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, said Bengu also played a pioneering role in facilitating the transition from the Tertiary Education Fund of South Africa to the now National Student Financial Aid Scheme. 

“In Prof Bengu, our country has lost not only one of its most committed educationists but also a model public servant and patriot, who even when his own health was waning, continued to serve his country and people with dignity and integrity. It is therefore no exaggeration to declare that Prof Bengu was one of those who laid the basis for our democracy,” the Minister said. 

Bengu is survived by his wife, Mama Funeka Bengu, his daughters, son, and grandchildren. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 01/06/2025 - 10:21

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Read moreSpecial Official Funeral to honour SA’s first democratic Education Minister Sibusiso Bengu

Minister Blade Nzimande on Passing of Professor Sibusiso Mandlenkosi Emmanuel Bengu

Location: News

South African Government
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The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande has expressed his deep sadness at the news of the passing of Professor Sibusiso Bengu.

“Prof Bengu holds the distinction of leading our iconic university, Fort Hare, into the democratic era as its vice chancellor in the early 1990s, and also served as democratic South Africa's first Minister of Education. In the latter capacity, he played a seminal role in dismantling the apartheid edifice of our country's education sector and helped to usher in a single, coordinated, non-racial, non-sexist education system,” said the Minister Nzimande.

“As part of the Cabinet of President Nelson Mandela, he led the introduction of a number of foundational laws that helped to shape the policy and institutional architecture of South Africa's school and post school sector in the decades following the collapse of the apartheid system. These include the South African Schools Act of 1996 and the policy recommendations of the National Commission on Higher Education that guided government's efforts to reconstruct and transform the apartheid higher education system. He also played a pioneering role in facilitating the transition from the Tertiary Education Fund of South Africa (TEFSA) to the now National Students financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)”, added the Minister.

“I worked with Prof Bengu in a number of capacities. My earliest interaction with him was in the mid-90s, when I was part of the ANC's negotiating team at the Constitutional drafting process.  During this period, I consulted him regularly on matters relating to education policy. This work helped shape Section 29 of our democratic Constitution. Later, I also worked with him in my capacity as Chairperson of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Education between 1994 and 1999, and together we championed a number of progressive education laws”, the Minister stated.

“In 2022, I approached him on behalf of government to accept the renaming of what was then known as the Historically Disadvantaged Institutions Development Grant (HDI-DG) to be the Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme (SB-DP)- an honour he accepted with great humility, but was quick to warn me to ensure that this programme does not fail.”

The Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme (SB- DP) is aimed at decisively redressing the inequalities that have negatively impacted the development and sustainability of the HDIs and seeks to enable them to respond to cross-cutting imperatives, including decolonisation in higher education; indigenous knowledge systems; the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and digitisation”.

“On a more personal note, Prof Bengu is one of the people who contributed directly to my personal progress. In 1977, as Dean of students at the University of Zululand, he saved me from dropping out of university by organising a student loan to pay the R100 that was required as part of my outstanding fees in September 1977”, recalled the Minister.

“In Prof Bengu our country has lost not only one of its most committed educationists, but also a model public servant and patriot, who even when his own health was waning, continued to serve his country and people with dignity and integrity. It is therefore no exaggeration to declare that Prof Bengu was one of those who laid the basis for our democracy”, the Minister stated.

On behalf of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, and South Africa's entire public science system, I wish to extend my deepest condolences to Professor Bengu's wife, Mama Funeka Bengu, his daughters and son, grandchildren, extended family, friends, and colleagues.

May we draw much needed inspiration from his monumental and inspirational legacy of selfless service.

Minister Nzimande will be visiting the Bengu family home in KZN today, Thursday 2 January at 11h00, to personally offer his condolences.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Government.

Read moreMinister Blade Nzimande on Passing of Professor Sibusiso Mandlenkosi Emmanuel Bengu

Minister Nzimande visits the late Professor Sibusiso Bengu’s family

Location: News

Minister Nzimande visits the late Professor Sibusiso Bengu’s family

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, is today visiting the family of Professor Sibusiso Bengu to offer his condolences.

Bengu passed away on Monday at the age of 90.

On behalf of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, and South Africa’s entire public science system, Nzimande extended his deepest condolences to Professor Bengu’s wife, Mama Funeka Bengu, his daughters and son, grandchildren, extended family, friends, and colleagues.

“Prof Bengu holds the distinction of leading our iconic university, Fort Hare, into the democratic era as its vice chancellor in the early 1990s, and also served as democratic South Africa's first Minister of Education. In the latter capacity, he played a seminal role in dismantling the apartheid edifice of our country’s education sector and helped to usher in a single, coordinated, non-racial, non-sexist education system. 

“As part of the Cabinet of President Nelson Mandela, he led the introduction of a number of foundational laws that helped to shape the policy and institutional architecture of South Africa’s school and post school sector in the decades following the collapse of the apartheid system,” Nzimande said. 

These include the South African Schools Act of 1996 and the policy recommendations of the National Commission on Higher Education that guided government’s efforts to reconstruct and transform the apartheid higher education system. 

He also played a pioneering role in facilitating the transition from the Tertiary Education Fund of South Africa (TEFSA) to the now National Students financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). 

“I worked with Prof Bengu in a number of capacities. My earliest interaction with him was in the mid-90s, when I was part of the ANC’s negotiating team at the Constitutional drafting process.  During this period, I consulted him regularly on matters relating to education policy. This work helped shape Section 29 of our democratic Constitution. Later, I also worked with him in my capacity as Chairperson of Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Education between 1994 and 1999, and together we championed a number of progressive education laws”, the Minister said.

The Minister explained that in 2022, he approached him on behalf of government to accept the renaming of what was then known as the Historically Disadvantaged Institutions Development Grant (HDI-DG) to be the Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme (SB-DP) - an honour he accepted with great humility, but was quick to warn the Minister to ensure that this programme does not fail. 

The Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme (SB- DP) is aimed at redressing the inequalities that have negatively impacted the development and sustainability of the HDIs and seeks to enable them to respond to cross-cutting imperatives, including decolonisation in higher education; indigenous knowledge systems; the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and digitisation. 

“On a more personal note, Prof Bengu is one of the people who contributed directly to my personal progress. In 1977, as Dean of students at the University of Zululand, he saved me from dropping out of university by organising a student loan to pay the R100 that was required as part of my outstanding fees in September 1977,” recalled the Minister.

“In Prof Bengu, our country has lost not only one of its most committed educationists, but also a model public servant and patriot, who even when his own health was waning, continued to serve his country and people with dignity and integrity. It is therefore no exaggeration to declare that Prof Bengu was one of those who laid the basis for our democracy.

“May we draw much needed inspiration from his monumental and inspirational legacy of selfless service,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Thu, 01/02/2025 - 12:42

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Read moreMinister Nzimande visits the late Professor Sibusiso Bengu’s family

The Future of Collaboration: How LG CreateBoard is Redefining Workplace Productivity

Location: Business

LG Electronics
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Collaboration technology has become the norm in the modern workplace. Nowadays, various advanced tools, platforms, and systems are available to businesses and professional environments to boost productivity, communicate effectively, and foster better teamwork.

A growing category of collaborative display technology is large, interactive touchscreen displays that combine the features of a digital whiteboard with conferencing tools. These impressive systems are the way forward for organisations that value brainstorming sessions, real-time collaboration, integrated video conferencing, and overall increased focus and creativity among team members.  

Reshaping the future of work

Technology plays a vital role in the changing workplace landscape because of the adoption of hybrid and remote work in recent years. Some of the most crucial methods to facilitate improved collaboration, communication, and productivity—no matter the physical distance—are using digital tools and platforms.

“Companies and organisations often struggle to promote effective collaboration between teams across different time zones or even continents,” says Tyrone Young, Head of Sales for Information Display and Information Technology at LG Electronics South Africa. “That is why there is such a need for innovative tech solutions like interactive displays to bridge the gap.”

Introducing the future of hybrid work

One system that is a leader in collaboration technology is the LG CreateBoard TR3DK series (http://apo-opa.co/404hUXN). While this cutting-edge collaboration display is widely used in classrooms, it is also designed to enhance corporate collaboration during meetings, brainstorming sessions, or training programs.

An impressive feature of the LG CreateBoard collaboration display is the multi-touch interaction which supports up to 40 touch points on the display at the same time. Moreover, the CreateBoard features cloud integration, making it ideal for group projects.

Speaking of collaborative projects, the LG CreateBoard is equipped with built-in collaboration tools like a digital whiteboard and ConnectedCare DMS for remote management. On top of that, using Smart Viewing Mode, multiple materials can be displayed side by side, making for productive and efficient presentations.

Maximising corporate collaboration

Several great advantages of using the LG CreateBoard in the workplace include smooth, well-organised workflows, improved meetings, and better team collaborations. For businesses where employees are split physically, the LG CreateBoard almost acts like a central hub where everyone can participate no matter where they are located.

“The LG TR3DK is an interactive, high-resolution digital display that is quintessential for streamlining workflows and improving efficiency” explains Young. “How? It provides easy cloud integration and remote device management for both IT teams and end users.”

Collaborative display technology in action

There are many examples of real-world applications of the LG TR3DK Collaboration Display in the work environment. For one, the LG CreateBoard is ideal in boardroom settings for interactive client presentations, whether that be for data visualisation, project updates, or a sales pitch. Another real-world application is using it for various training and learning sessions and workshops. This is particularly beneficial because it allows remote learners to participate and it allows for better hands-on learning.

All-in-all the LG CreateBoard is the ultimate tool for project collaboration. The multi-touch interface is a great way to encourage team members to include their real-time input, feedback, thoughts, and decisions.

“The TR3DK is a game-changer for the modern workplace,” states Young. “It breaks down communication barriers and equips teams with the tools they need to stay productive and connected in any environment.”

Looking ahead

In a world where workplaces are becoming more and more global, remote, or hybrid, collaboration technology plays a vital role. Advancements such as the LG CreateBoard collaboration display can completely change the way the workforce communicates, engages, develops, and shares information.

“LG is well-known for its innovative solutions and their focus on collaboration technology shows how they are transforming the modern work environment into a more productive place,” concludes Young.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of LG Electronics.

Read moreThe Future of Collaboration: How LG CreateBoard is Redefining Workplace Productivity

ACSA urges passengers to arrive early for flights

Location: News

ACSA urges passengers to arrive early for flights

To manage the high volumes of passengers expected at OR Tambo International Airport this festive season, holidaymakers are advised to arrive three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights, as they head to their various travel destinations.

The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) issued a warning on Monday about longer queues at the passport control points at OR Tambo due to a failure in the border management system.  

ACSA reported that the unresponsiveness of the Border Management Authority (BMA) biometric movement control system was causing these extended queues. 

The incident affected on-time performance, which dropped to 62% on 16 December, before recovering to 85% the following day after interventions. 

At a media briefing on Thursday, ACSA CEO Mpumi Mpofu suggested alternative arrangements for the festive season, such as allowing more time for international travellers to arrive at the airport. 

Mpofu stated that the busiest day is generally the first Friday after schools close, which was on 13 December 2024. ACSA also expects Friday, 20 December, to be the busiest day of the entire peak season. 

“And that would give us 20 886 international passengers coming through, and that's both departures and arrival. And 39 423 domestic travellers on 20 of December.” 

The airport anticipates 696 000 international passengers and 262 000, on peak days, from today until Christmas Eve on 24 December. 

The briefing was held at OR Tambo in Johannesburg and comes as more people are expected to travel in and out of the country this festive season. 

The briefing focused on transparency, accountability, and the need for public cooperation. 

Mpofu also emphasised the importance of the airport as a gateway to the world and its role in the economy, particularly during the festive season. 

She also stressed the importance of facilitating passengers and the negative impact of disruptions on the economy. 

“We take our passengers seriously, but the negative impact on the economy that comes with disruptions in the flow of passengers during peak season is a matter needing serious attention. 

“OR Tambo International Airport now serves as a very important gateway during peak season, particularly, and plays an important role as one of our key international airports with three ports of entry.” 

The CEO also discussed the preparation for the peak season starting in September, involving stakeholder engagement and plan submissions. 

She stated that the recent incidents were unplanned and did not result from a lack of planning and expressed disappointment at these events. 

“Our ecosystem works based on multiple stakeholders, and I think it’s important to indicate that that’s why, when we speak as ACSA, we do so after consultation with the rest of the stakeholders on our platform.” 

She also stressed the importance of public awareness about parking arrangements and the availability of long-term parking with shuttles. 

Jet fuel

Mpofu also addressed the incident related to jet fuel and the subsequent analysis of the dry shaft and discussed upgrading the jet fuel system by March 2025. 

“Aviation is a highly safety-sensitive area where nothing can go wrong, and as such, we are also really disappointed in the events that have happened, because basically, [we] did not anticipate [them].”

BMA Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato, said 14 new systems and additional human resources have been deployed at the airport to enhance capacity. 

“We had to make sure that we respond with speed, and we have been able to deploy all our key top ICT [information and communication technology] officials on the ground to make sure that the issue is effectively addressed, and we are then able to get back to normal as fast as possible,” he said. 

Earlier this month, ACSA apologised to its stakeholders and the public for the flight disruptions that occurred at OR Tambo due to refuelling challenges. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 12/19/2024 - 12:08

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Read moreACSA urges passengers to arrive early for flights