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“Western Cape, you absolute beauty! Our province continues to shine as a destination in high demand. Tourist arrivals to Cape Town by air recorded a remarkable 16% year-on-year increase between January and March 2024, reaching 336,268 visitors. This not only shows a significant recovery but also surpasses the 2019 figure for the same period. We …
SMMEs gear up for Africa’s Travel Indaba
With just one day to go until the start of Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) 2024, over 120 hopeful and excited small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) are gearing up for the highlight of their marketing calendars.
Themed, 'Unlocking Opportunities', the renowned Africa Travel Indaba, which will take place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, from 13 to 16 May 2024, is expected to connect the tourism industry with unlimited opportunities.
The event is expected to be attended by 9 000 delegates from over 25 countries.
Acting CEO for Tourism KwaZulu-Natal (TKZN), Sibusiso Gumbi, said of the 120 SMMEs, 15 are KwaZulu-Natal-based SMMEs, which are part of TKZN's Tourism Enterprise Development Programme.
Gumbi said the SMMEs will be using every opportunity to showcase and sell their products and services to the thousands of domestic and international travel buyers attending the indaba.
“These fledgling businesses exhibiting on the TKZN stand have an integral part to play in the growth and development of the tourism sector. SMMEs not only contribute to job creation but are important for bringing new products to market and creating jobs,” Gumbi said.
Whilst most outbound travel is dominated by corporates, Gumbi noted that 80% of those serving the inbound market are small owner-managed operations.
“In fact, small businesses account for more than 80% of the tourism industry as a whole.
“We want SMMEs to grow into substantial players in this critical sector of our economy. However, we know transformation will not occur spontaneously but requires deliberate and sustained effort from all stakeholders.
“For this reason, we have implemented various programmes to ensure that our SMMEs get the much deserved and needed support. Enabling SMMEs to attend ATI is one of the ways in which we assist emerging tourism businesses,” Gumbi said.
EThekwini Municipality’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Chairperson, Thembo Ntuli said the city’s economy will benefit immensely from hosting this four-day event.
“Hotel occupancy is expected to be between 85% and 95%. The total expected spending is estimated at R177 million, contributing R439 million to eThekwini’s GDP with 796 jobs to be created,” Ntuli said. SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 05/12/2024 - 09:17
Excitement is mounting as the countdown begins for the Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon which will be held on Saturday, 1 June from Pollock Beach, Summerstrand. Special 10th edition initiatives include bumper prize money, a new Trophy to be awarded to the Club with the Best Celebration Spirit and the first 600 athletes to enter …
The KZN South Coast is the place where ocean sunrises and hinterland adventures await – but these are best enjoyed with the company of some four-legged friends! Fortunately, there is a wide selection of ‘pawfect’ pet-friendly accommodation options and restaurants to be explored in the Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom. “We understand that for many …
President to engage Northern Cape residents on various issues
President Cyril Ramaphosa will today lead government’s interaction - in the form of a District Development Model Presidential Imbizo - with communities and stakeholders within the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality in the Northern Cape.
Themed "Leave No One Behind", the 12th Presidential Imbizo promotes participatory democracy and inclusive development by allowing community members and stakeholders to voice proposals and express any concerns or dissatisfaction they may have about conditions in the district or province.
The official programme is expected to get underway at 11am at the Batlharos Sports Ground.
According to the Presidency, the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality is a rural district municipality which comprises three local municipalities - Ga- Segonyana, Joe Morolong and Gamagara.
“Mining, tourism, manufacturing and agriculture and forestry are key economic drivers in the district,” the office said in a statement.
The imbizo is directed at enabling successful implementation of the “One District, One Plan” District Development Model in which residents, traditional leaders, business formations, organised labour and faith- and community-based organisations work with government across all phases of planning, implementation, and evaluation.
In March, residents of Emalahleni, in Mpumalanga, had the opportunity to engage the President on the pressing matter of service delivery, among other issues.
Read I Communities have their say at Imbizo
There have been various build-up outreach activities led by all three spheres of government in parts of the district municipality and across the Northern Cape.
Ahead of the community engagement, President Ramaphosa will meet with the Northern Cape Provincial Executive of the House of Traditional and Khoi-san Leaders. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 10:01
SA’s tourism sector continues on a positive trajectory
South Africa’s tourism sector continues to grow and attract international arrivals from all over the world.
According to the latest official release of international arrival figures by Statistics South Africa for January to March 2024, the country totalled 2.4 million, representing a remarkable 15.4% increase when compared with the same period in 2023.
Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille has welcomed the increase in international travellers as it is a significant contributor to the economy and job creation.
“We are determined to continue with this momentum. South Africa remains attractive and accessible for all travellers to enjoy,” the Minister said on Tuesday.
South Africa welcomed 1.8 million tourist arrivals from the rest of the African continent between January and March 2024, marking a significant 74.5% of all arrivals.
Zimbabwe and Ghana stood out for their remarkable growth, with Zimbabwe experiencing a 21.8% increase in tourist arrivals to South Africa when compared to the first three months of 2023, totalling 613 675 arrivals, while Ghana recorded a 249.4% increase when compared to the same period in 2023, reaching 7 904 arrivals for January to March 2024.
“Ghana’s immense performance can be attributed to the fact that South Africa and Ghana announced a visa-waiver scheme on 1 November 2023. The visa-waiver allows for travel for periods of up to 90 days within a calendar year, for purposes of business or tourism.
“This coupled with targeted integrated marketing initiatives executed by South African Tourism to attract visitors from this market makes for a winning formula for the growth of our sector,” de Lille said.
Travellers from other parts of the world also continued to show their interest in South Africa.
Tourist arrivals from the Americas registered at 118 194 from January to March 2024, reflecting a 12.4% growth compared to the same period in 2023.
Strength in European markets
From January to March 2024, South Africa saw 420 727 tourist arrivals from Europe, an 8.6% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
“The United Kingdom remains the top European source market, with 125 420 tourists choosing South Africa, marking a 5.3% growth compared to 2023. Germany experienced a 9.9% increase in arrivals compared to same period in 2023, amounting to 98 954 tourists.
“This was followed by the Netherlands, which saw an increase of 9.9% when compared to 2023, amounting to 37 548 tourist arrivals between January and March 2024. Russia exhibited a dramatic growth of 9.6% when compared to 2023, contributing 9 329 arrivals in 2024,” the Ministry of Tourism said.
Asia markets
The Asian markets also showed significant growth with a total 49 741 arrivals from the region, representing an astounding 25.4% when compared to the same period in 2023.
“We welcomed 16 209 tourists from India; 0.9% lower compared to 2023. Notably, South Africa received 11 017 visitors from China registering a massive 82% increase in the first three months of 2024 when compared to the same period in 2023,” the Ministry said.
Middle East arrivals
South Africa received 2 387 arrivals from Saudi Arabia in 2024, marking an increase of 31.7% when compared to 2023.
The United Arab Emirates saw 321 arrivals to South Africa between January and March 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 05/07/2024 - 09:52
The investment potential on the KZN South Coast is being uncovered with manufacturing identified as a key growth sector. Prominent South African babywear manufacturer, Shiva Clothing, exemplifies the opportunities for success in the region. Established in 1992 in a garage by husband-and-wife team Dolly and Siva Naidu, the small cut, trim, and manufacture (CTM) facility …
The Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon is set for another thrilling finish, with over a thousand runners expected to line-up to celebrate the 10th edition at Pollok Beach, Summerstrand, on the 1st of June. Race director, Mike Mbambani confirmed that his local organising team is ready to deliver the 10th edition of this successful race. …
It’s time to show that mom – or mother figure – some well-deserved love on Sunday, 12 May and Scottburgh’s Crocworld Conservation Centre has just the thing! This beautiful coastal centre has announced a free entry pass for moms (accompanied by their children), and an epic Mother’s Day Buffet special served at the on-site Fish …
Amanzimtoti’s local tourism, businesses, and the hard-working Lions Club were given a major boost on Saturday, 27 April with the successful Highland Gathering held at Hutchison Park. Crowds flocked to enjoy the day’s festivities, which included several new features and prize giveaways, with the proceeds going towards community initiatives by The Lions Club of Amanzimtoti. …
The African Union Commission (AUC) has officially invited the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to take advantage of the hosting rights benefits of the next 2 editions of the prestigious annual All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA (www.AFRIMA.org).
In a letter bearing reference number HHS/CUL/16/170.23 and signed by the AUC's Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development, Her Excellency, Ambassador Minata Samate Cessouma, the AU said the call aligns with its policies for the strategic transformation of Africa through social integration, as outlined in AU Agenda 2063, the Charter for African Cultural Renaissance, and the AU Plan for Action on Cultural and Creative Industry.
The AU describes AFRIMA as a global platform for celebrating and developing Africa's diverse musical talents and cultural heritage, highlighting the significant opportunities hosting the prestigious awards presents for the selected host country.
"Since 2014, the African Union has been partnering and working successfully with AFRIMA to develop, celebrate and promote African music globally for the purpose of integration/inclusivity, economic prosperity and world peace via its seven core pillars: (1) Music Awards, (2) Music Festivals; (3) AFRIMA creative Academy; (4) Talent Discovery and Promotions; (5) Music Business Hub; (6) Advocacy; (7) Advisory and Policy Debates," the letter reads.
"AFRIMA is the biggest and longest running music award and platform in Africa, with a huge global appeal, diaspora audience, and youthful fans. The main event events of AFRIMA are usually broadcast live to over 84 countries around the world after a continental and global road show, with thousands of music artists, actors, celebrities, members of the diplomatic corps, professionals in the creative space, tourists, media and fans from all over the world converging on the host country."
A letter received by the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, on behalf of the Nigerian government, a copy of which was seen by our correspondent, reads, "Nigeria, as a beacon in African music with huge young population, should it accept to host AFRIMA, stands a promising chance in elevating the country's positive global presence, bolstering artistic, tourism and economic growth, fostering cultural exchange and job creation, and reinforcing a positive perception of our continent's rich cultural heritage on a global scale."
The successful last edition of AFRIMA was hosted and partnered by the government of the Republic of Senegal in the city of Dakar. The hosting rights of AFRIMA are usually bestowed on a country that shows capacity and commitment to meet up with the requirement and conditions.
The Acting Director for Social Development, Culture, and Sports Division, African Union Commission, Ms. Angela Martins confirmed the invitation and request to bid for the hosting rights extended to the two countries.
She said that AFRIMA provides a unique opportunity for the host country to showcase its rich cultural heritage, develop her music sector, promote tourism, and stimulate economic growth.
"This call to action comes as part of the AU's commitment to promoting cultural exchange, unity, and economic development across the African continent. We urge the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to seize this opportunity to strengthen intra-African collaboration (in line with AFCTA) within the music industry and enhance their international visibility positively.
"AFRIMA serves as a premier platform for African artists in Africa and diaspora to showcase their talent, gain international exposure, and connect with audiences worldwide," she said.
She added that as the bidding process is itching towards its deadline, the African Union remains committed to providing support and guidance to ensure a successful hosting of AFRIMA.
She also reiterated the AUC's readiness to work closely with the selected host country to maximize the impact of the event on the African music industry, tourism, general economy growth, and socio-cultural landscape.
Signed,
Adejuwon OSUNNUYI
Communications Officer
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).
Newly launched Dube TradeZone attracts R1.8 billion in early investment
The Dube TradePort Corporation (DTPC) has officially launched the second phase of the highly successful industrial precinct and Special Economic Zone (SEZ) adjacent to the King Shaka International Airport, the Dube TradeZone 2.
The business entity of the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government recently hosted a ribbon-cutting event where they also previewed two factories worth over R180 million which are currently under construction within the precinct.
DTPC Board Chair, Mpumelelo Zikalala, said despite the constrained economic environment over the past two years, the corporation has secured seven private sector investors for Dube TradeZone 2.
Four of these investors have begun constructing their facilities.
The total private sector investment value secured in Dube TradeZone 2 amounts to R1.8 billion and is expected to create 600 jobs within the next five years.
Dube TradeZone 2 will target investors in the manufacturing, logistics and automotive sectors while facilitating the planned expansion of several phase one-based enterprises.
The launch of the second phase of the TradeZone follows the successful implementation of Dube TradeZone 1, which has 50 investors and full tenants. These include international companies such as Samsung, Mahindra, DHL, Chem Energy and PepsiCo-Futurelife.
Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, welcomed the investment as he reflected on the 30 years of freedom and democracy.
He noted the establishment of SEZ as one of the achievements of a democratic government.
He cited this investment as an indication that SEZs are instruments for job creation and economic development.
“As government, we are focusing on SEZ for a good reason. They are designed for specific developmental purposes, to develop export-orientated industries, attract foreign direct investment and technology transfer and achieve the generation of employment opportunities.”
The MEC said SEZs are an effective instrument to resolve “disturbing” levels of inequality, poverty and unemployment, which are strongly marked by spatial, racial, class and gender factors.
In addition to job creation, Duma said SEZs are broadening the municipal revenue collection base to improve the quality of life in the municipal areas, as well as the quality of municipal services.
“This makes SEZs one of the key instruments for municipal economic growth and development,” the MEC explained.
To date, the 26-hectare TradeZone 1 has attracted more than R2.8 billion in private sector investment from enterprises focused on air-related logistics, distribution and light manufacturing.
It includes the Dube TradeHouse, a dedicated facility for freight forwarders and shippers with airside access via an overhead conveyor air bridge to the adjacent, state-of-the-art Dube Cargo Terminal.
Dube TradeZone 1 is home to notable exporters that service the sub-Saharan African market as well as markets in Asia, Europe, and the United States.
In 2023/24, Dube TradePort tenants exported goods worth R610 million.
Dube TradeZone 2, will open an additional 45 hectares of industrial land for development and brings to market another 23 fully serviced sites, which range in size from 3 000m² to 57 000m².
It will also include three Dube TradePort-owned warehouses, one of which will accommodate medium-sized businesses enabling the expansion of small businesses located in the mini factories.
The two factories include the R166-million Yangtze Optical Africa Cable plant and R17.5 million development by HRMP, a 100% Black South African-owned logistics company that specialises in the warehousing and distribution of graphite electrodes. This new facility was funded by Ithala Development Finance.
Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TKZN) CEO, Sihle Ngcamu, welcomed further foreign investment by Yangtze Optical Africa Cable, which is already producing optical fibre cables and home solution cables for the local, Zambian, Namibian and Botswanan telecommunications markets at its facility in TradeZone 1.
This latest investment is expected to deliver a further 250 jobs over the next five years.
To date, Dube TradeZone has attracted a total of R4.6 billion in private sector investment and created more than 5 000 permanent jobs. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 05/05/2024 - 08:11
South Africa’s LGBTQ+ Community diversity is capably represented, amongst many others, by: Dr. Francois Venter (a leading HIV expert and pioneer in life-saving treatments), Somizi Mhlongo (the beloved TV personality, dancing his way into our hearts), former Constitutional Court Judge Edwin Cameron (an advocate for equality), and professor Sizwe Mabizela (Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor and champion …
Mashatile calls on leaders from all sectors to build SA's economy
Leaders from all sectors of society must join hands to build a resilient economy and fight corruption, says the Deputy President, Paul Mashatile.
“We must collaborate, with each playing a distinctive part, to generate employment and boost trade and investment between our nations, the continent and the world,” he told delegates during a dialogue on the role of leadership in fostering economic growth, hosted by the African United Business Confederation (AUBC).
The roundtable dialogue held on Tuesday focused on the role of leadership in economic growth.
The Deputy President said he believed that effective leadership significantly affects the economic landscape of nations and societies.
“We are convinced that to build our economy, leaders from all sectors, including business, politics, government, and civil society, must work together,” he said.
“Our roles are all important, and if one lags behind, it will affect the growth of our economy. It is our duty as political leaders in government to formulate policies that promote an environment conducive to economic growth.”
The country’s second-in-command said effective economic policies can stimulate innovation, promote entrepreneurship and drive innovation.
“As you may have observed, since the advent of democracy, we have created political stability by promoting free and fair elections, which will continue to be the case in the upcoming election on 29 May 2024.”
The Deputy President said a stable political environment is critical for investor confidence and economic growth.
He told the private sector leaders that they have a responsibility to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, both of which are vital to economic expansion and job creation.
In addition, he said, the private sector is key to enhancing the competitiveness of the South African economy.
“Together, as leaders, we possess the foresight to identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and make strategic decisions that drive sustainable economic development.”
He acknowledged that despite attaining political freedom and substantial advancements since 1994, South Africa is yet to realise economic freedom and an economy that adequately provides for the majority of its population.
“As present-day leaders across various sectors of our society, we must set aside our differences and concentrate on fully rousing the potential of South Africa’s economy.
“We must proactively address socio-economic challenges such as high unemployment, poverty, inequality and corruption.”
Corruption
He added that in order to reach the goal of ending poverty and boosting economic growth set out in the National Development Plan, “we must all work together to fight corruption and support accountability, openness, and good government”.
The fight against corruption should be multifaceted, involving both the public and private sectors.
“We have to strengthen anti-corruption partnerships, intensify efforts, and promote a zero-tolerance approach to corruption led by capable leaders, who are resilient, highly adaptable and willing to implement bold reforms to surmount our challenges and transform the economy.”
Inclusion
In addition, he called on leaders across sectors to be intentional in their inclusion of women, youth and other marginalised groups in economic reform efforts.
He also touched on the Red Tape Reduction Team introduced by President Cyril Ramaphosa to improve the ease of doing business in the country and further stimulate business development.
“The team focuses on reducing red tape in priority areas such as mining rights, tourism operator licenses, travel visas, work permits, and the informal sector, aiming to create a competitive and vibrant economy.”
In addition, he said government has also reduced regulatory hurdles for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) and cooperatives, reduced VAT refund processing time from 15 weeks to four to five weeks and reduced the corporate income tax audit process from 32 weeks to 17 weeks.
“We have a collective role to play in paving the way for future generations of leaders to contribute to the transformation of our economy. Through strategic leadership, we unlock the countries’ potential, drive innovation, and create a better future.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 04/30/2024 - 12:32
In an effort to assess South Africa’s global reputation in various key areas, Brand South Africa conducted extensive research on the perceptions that other countries have on South Africa. A total of 17 countries were surveyed with over 9800 respondents and focused on brand audiences related to tourism, investment, talent, exports and general reputation. On …
R35m in irregular payments recovered by SA Tourism
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille says R35 million linked to irregular payments for services not rendered has been returned to the SA Tourism account.
Several irregular payments were made for services not rendered by South African Tourism’s US and South Africa offices.
SA Tourism is the official tourism marketing agency of South Africa and an entity of the Department of Tourism.
As part of its mandate, SA Tourism has hub offices in key source market countries around the world to enable officials to interact with key partners in executing their duties of promoting and marketing South Africa as a top travel destination.
“I was recently informed by SA Tourism that there had been a number of irregular payments and invoices noted, which do not meet the definition of compliant and valid or internal control verification standards.
"A number of irregular invoices were created about three days before the previous financial year end, which ended on 31 March 2023 and processed piecemeal to override banking controls,” De Lille explained.
Executives who are no longer working for the agency, the Minister said, processed these payments, from the United States and South Africa offices of SA Tourism at the end of March 2023.
“This discovery was triggered by a review by SA Tourism, which confirmed that a significant portion received by a media agency during March 2023 and signed off by the then Acting Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operations Officer and the then Acting CEO were for services not yet rendered at the time of disbursement,” De Lille said.
The service provider was notified and acknowledged that they had received a significant sum of money, which was approved by the former Acting Chief Financial Officer, Acting Chief Executive Officer, and the then COO of SA Tourism.
However, it was discovered that the services for which the payment was made were not provided.
“These irregular payments are completely shocking and it is unacceptable that officials entrusted with public funds continue to act with such contempt of public finance laws and regulations. We will not leave this matter unaccounted for. The internal audit report is being finalised and the matter has also been reported to the Auditor-General of South Africa to investigate,” De Lille said.
Communication ensued with the respective media agency to pay back R35 million for services not rendered.
“We are relieved that all the money has been recovered from the irregular payments. I can also confirm that the Auditor-General of South Africa is in the process of finalising a delegation from the AG’s office to do an audit on the SA Tourism New York office,” she added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 15:03
When it comes to experiencing the vibrant culture, rich history, and dynamic spirit of South Africa, few places offer the depth and diversity of Soweto. This iconic township, located on the outskirts of Johannesburg, is a microcosm of the nation’s complex narrative, filled with stories of resilience, struggle, and triumph. For travellers seeking an authentic …
New and returning visitors to the 2024 Highland Gathering are in for a treat as organisers have introduced some new features to the event while retaining old favourites. Taking place at Amanzimtoti’s Hutchison Park on Saturday, 27 April, this Scottish-inspired festival is a great day out for the family, as well as being the annual …
A N$24 million (over US$1.2million) investment through a partnership between Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) (www.CCBAgroup.com) in Namibia and Plastic Packaging has culminated in the opening of a new polyethylene terephthalate (PET) flaking plant in Okahandja which will double the capacity of the only mechanical recycler of plastic waste in the country.
The plant was officially inaugurated by the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta.
“The Coca-Cola system aims to drive systemic change through a circular economy for packaging. We are leading the industry to help collect and recycle a bottle or can for every one we sell by 2030. We have a responsibility to help solve complex plastic waste challenges facing our planet and society, and we're leveraging our scale and reach to achieve our sustainability goals and reduce packaging waste,” said CCBA Chief Public Affairs, Communication and Sustainability Officer, Tshidi Ramogase.
“This facility is an example of how we work with partners across business, government and civil society to support or create closed loop systems to ensure our packaging is collected and recycled or reused.
“Supporting the establishment of a circular economy for packaging has both environmental and economic benefits since recycling has the potential to create jobs and to empower the informal waste collection sector in a circular economy.
“Unlike a traditional linear economy in which packaging is made, used and disposed of; a circular economy preserves the economic value of packaging through robust collection and recycling systems,” said Ramogase.
The completion of this cutting-edge recycling facility will enable Namibia Polymer Recyclers (NPR), a subsidiary of Plastic Packaging, to recycle up to 500 tons per month.
The recycling plant transforms discarded beverage bottles made from PET material into PET flakes with an international market value. The flaking process of post-consumer PET bottles involves sorting, shredding it into PET flakes, hot-washing and drying of flakes, which are then sent for further processing into recycled PET pellets and other end-uses.
This reduces the need to use virgin PET, while diverting waste from landfills and the environment.
“We are investing in infrastructure and exploring ways to support additional recycled PET capacity in each of the regions where we operate. These investments not only provide a source of recycled content for our packaging but also create additional demand for empty packages, driving increased collection.
“At CCBA, we are a proud industry leader in developing increasingly sustainable ways to produce, distribute and sell our products. We use our industry leadership to be part of the solution to achieve positive change and to build a more sustainable future for our planet,” said Ramogase.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca Cola Beverages Africa.
Issued By:
Enid Johr
PACS Director
CCBA in Namibia
Tel: +264 81 778 5381
Email: ejohr@ccbagroup.com
Wendy Thole-Muir
Head: Reputation and Communication
Coca-Cola Beverages Africa
Tel: +27 83 795 8524
Email: WThole-Muir@ccbagroup.com
About CCBA:
CCBA is the 8th largest Coca-Cola bottling partner in the world by revenue, and the largest on the continent. It accounts for over 40% of all Coca-Cola products sold in Africa by volume. With over 18,000 employees in Africa, CCBA services more than 720,000 customers with a host of international and local brands. The group was formed in July 2016 after the successful combination of the southern and east Africa bottling operations of the non-alcoholic ready-to-drink beverages businesses of The Coca-Cola Company, SABMiller plc and Gutsche Family Investments. CCBA shareholders are currently: The Coca-Cola Company 66.5% and Gutsche Family Investments 33.5%. CCBA operates in 15 countries, including its six key markets of South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Mozambique and Namibia, as well as Tanzania, Botswana, Ghana, Zambia, the islands of Comoros and Mayotte, Eswatini, Lesotho, and Malawi.
Learn more at https://www.CCBAgroup.com
SA on track to eliminate malaria disease by 2028
The Department of Health says South Africa is on track to achieve malaria elimination status by 2028, as outlined in the National Malaria Elimination Strategic Plan.
This, according to the department, is despite facing challenges such as heightened heatwaves exacerbated by climate change, with the potential to directly impact transmission and the burden of disease.
According to the department, malaria elimination promises both health and economic benefits, in line with the goals of the 2030 National Development Plan and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
“This has the potential to also benefit the Southern African countries collectively on issues of trade, tourism, health, and economic growth,” the statement read.
While progress has been made in reducing the burden of malaria in provinces such as Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal, the department believes further efforts are needed to curb local transmission.
South Africa is today joining the global community to observe World Malaria Day to recognise global efforts to control malaria to reduce the burden of the disease and avoid preventable deaths.
Each year on April 25, South Africa joins the global community in recognising World Malaria Day.
READ | SA commemorates World Malaria Day
The Department of Health has since urged all stakeholders, including communities, healthcare professionals, civil society organisations and international partners to collaborate in intensifying the fight against malaria, aiming to foster a healthier and more equitable world for current and future generations.
Malaria is a preventable and curable life-threatening disease transmitted by a type of female mosquito called Anopheles, which remains a significant global health concern.
In 2022, an estimated 249 million new cases and approximately 608 000 deaths were reported, with Sub-Saharan Africa enduring the most of the burden.
In South Africa, 9 795 cases and 106 deaths were reported in 2023, demonstrating notable progress, including the subnational elimination of malaria in the King Cetshwayo District of KwaZulu-Natal.
“The government is committed to integrating the ethos of ensuring equal access to malaria prevention and treatment services for all with the principles of the National Health Insurance, which essentially has the objective of attaining Universal Health Coverage.”
The department is of the view that eliminating malaria is an ambitious task that requires sustainable resources, collaboration with neighbouring countries including Botswana, Eswatini, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zimbabwe, evidence-based policies, strong partnerships and a dedicated workforce.
“South Africa is working towards strengthening and harnessing its domestic expertise while collaborating with global partners.”
Last year, South Africa was amongst the countries that received global prestigious awards from the World Health Organisation (WHO) for their efforts to achieve important milestones towards malaria elimination.
The 2024 World Malaria Day will be commemorated under the theme: ‘Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world’, which focuses on acknowledging the varying effects of malaria on men and women, emphasising the need to address these discrepancies in prevention and healthcare access.
Malaria symptoms include headache, fever, chills, fatigue, and muscle and joint pain that occur up to three weeks after first potential exposure.
However, early diagnosis and treatment are strongly recommended as the disease rapidly progresses to severe illness, often with severe consequences. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 11:43
The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, hosted the State Secretary for Foreign and Global Affairs of the Kingdom of Spain, Mr Diego Martínez Belío, on 23 April 2024. Deputy Minister Botes and State Secretary Martínez Belío co-chaired the 15th Session of the South Africa-Spain Bilateral Consultations. South Africa's bilateral relations with Spain are managed through the Bilateral Consultations, which meets annually at the Deputy Minister level.
The Official Visit to South Africa enhanced the already strong relations between South Africa and Spain. This visit highlighted the existing cooperation between the two countries and reviewed the progress and implementation of existing agreements.
The meeting deepened engagement and discussions in the areas of mutual interest to both countries, particularly in trade and investment, education, science and innovation, climate change and renewable energy, as well as human rights, migration and women, peace and security.
Bilateral trade between South Africa and Spain grew by 9.7% from $3.1 billion in 2022 to $3.4 billion in 2023. In 2023, Spain was South Africa's 18th trading partner globally and fifth largest trading partner in the EU. During the same period, South Africa was Spain's second largest export destination and seventh largest source of imports on the African continent. South Africa's exports to Spain grew by 12.8% from $1.41 billion in 2022, to $1.77 billion in 2023.
Over the past ten years, there has been steady investment in South Africa by Spanish companies. The bulk of the investment is in the renewable energy sector. South African companies have also looked to Spain as an investment destination in the Real Estate sector. More than 150 Spanish companies have invested in South Africa creating over 20,000 jobs, largely in the following sectors: Infrastructure Development, Renewable Energy, Financial Services, Tourism, Textiles, IT & Software, Metals, and Mining.
Spain also remains a strategic European tourism market for South Africa. There has been a slight recovery in terms of tourist arrivals from Spain for the periods 2022 and 2023. Tourist arrivals increased by a total of 8 716 between the above-mentioned years, from 23 304 in 2023 to 32 020 in 2024. This is a positive indication of inbound travel slowly returning to pre-pandemic levels as far as this market is concerned.
The recent various high-level engagements between South Africa and Spain symbolise the commitment by both countries to promote a better and more equitable world to benefit the people of both countries.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
While some people enjoy relaxing by the seaside or splashing in the waves on holiday, others prefer to keep their feet on terra firma, exploring nature reserves, farmlands, or golfing greens. Of course, there are also those who like the best of both worlds, and they’ll find exactly what they’re looking for on the KZN …
The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Minister Pandor, will co-chair the VII Session of the South Africa-Brazil Joint Commission (JC) on 23 April 2024 in Brasilia, Brazil, with her counterpart, Minister Mauro Vieira, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federative Republic of Brazil.
On 13 December 2003, South Africa and Brazil signed an agreement to establish a Joint Commission. A Declaration on Strategic Partnership and an Action Plan was signed in 2010.
The Joint Commission serves as a mechanism to monitor and facilitate the implementation of the Action Plan in several areas such as agriculture; defence; economic and commercial relations; environment; health; higher education and technical cooperation; justice and correctional services; minerals and energy; science, technology, and communications; sports, arts, and culture.
The Joint Commission is composed of 10 sectoral Working Groups (WG).
A Senior Officials Meeting was held on 10 April 2024 to review the work done by the working groups in preparation for the JC.
South Africa shares a common history and cultural heritage with Brazil's over 100 million population of African descent (African Diaspora), the second largest African Diaspora in the Americas region.
Brazil will host the Sixth Region Diaspora Conference in the state of Bahia on 20-22 May 2024 as one of the preparatory meetings for the Ninth Pan African Conference that will be held in Togo in October 2024.
South Africa and Brazil as member countries of the Global South, actively advance the developmental agenda of the South through, amongst others, the UN, IBSA, BRICS, G20, WTO, and International Financial Institutions.
Brazil is currently holding the IBSA Chair, G20 Presidency and in 2025 will chair the BRICS Plus as well as COP30. On 1 December 2023, South Africa became a member of the G20 Troika, with India and Brazil and will assume the Presidency of G20 in 2025
Brazil is South Africa's largest trading partner in Latin America and is the second largest trading partner in the Americas after the USA. South Africa is Brazil's second largest export partner in Africa.
The resumption of LATAM Airlines' and SAA's direct flights between Sao Paulo and Johannesburg in 2023 has opened opportunities to scale up tourism, trade, and people-to-people relations.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
Stillwater Sports is thrilled to welcome Castle Lite as the official Beer Partner of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, one of South Africa’s most iconic road running series. “The partnership between Castle Lite and the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series brings together two iconic brands to enhance the experience for participants and spectators alike …