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The supply chain disruptions over the past few years have emphasised the value of self-reliant economies and the inherent value of supporting local manufacturers. The South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) is promoting this movement on the KZN South Coast through its Buy Local movement, with many quality local manufacturers already enjoying membership benefits. …
February is the month of love, and this month it’s the homeless animals that need a lot of love! Scottburgh-based NPO, 4 Paws and a Tale Rescue has been inundated with animals in need of food, shelter, and medication, with many pet owners simply unable to keep up with the rising cost of living. To …
Johannesburg, February 7, 2024: RivExcel and American Hospital Dubai recently partnered and launched three medical tourism offices in Nigeria. This expansion will facilitate greater access to premium healthcare services, reflecting both organizations’ dedication to enhancing global health outcomes. Part of the expansion plan is to have 30 offices across crucial Africa and Eastern Europe locations. …
SONA 2024 a 'unique' milestone after 30 years of democracy
South Africans can look forward to a “unique” State of the Nation Address (SONA) this evening, as the important event is being held against the backdrop of the country preparing to commemorate 30 years of democracy.
This according to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, who was addressing the media in Cape Town on Wednesday.
SONA will be held at the Cape Town City Hall from 7pm.
“This [SONA] is different and unique in so many ways. It is important that it is allowed its own expression and that South Africans can take out of it the celebratory element. We are marking 30 years of our democratic dispensation. It is also the last SONA under the sixth administration.
“And so what you will have is a reflection of the past 30 years, coupled with an account of the work of the sixth administration over the last five years. It is important you allow those key elements to be expressed as much as possible without adding other issues,” he said.
Magwenya explained that the delivery of SONA is a Constitutional imperative.
“There is a Constitutionally mandated democratic tradition for the President to open Parliament. So it’s not just about the State of the Nation Address; it’s the opening of Parliament. This is something that has been part and parcel of our democratic dispensation since 1994.
“We urge all South Africans to follow the address as it deals with the state of the nation; not the state of only one segment or some segments of the nation. It is the state of all of the nation,” he said.
Having their say
This year’s SONA will be held under the theme: “Following up on our commitments: Making your future work better” and on the streets of South Africa, citizens expressed their views on what they believe the President should take stock of.
Mosito Moshatane from Kliprivier said: “I hope the President will address the issue of human settlements. I think people are living in places that aren’t good because they are desperate [for housing]. The queues are too long for them to be waiting”.
Nicardo Nell from Upington said: “This year I think it’s very important for us… to listen to the SONA because I think it will give us hope and direction.”
Prudence Faku said: “It is important that the President addresses the issues that we have, so that we know what the plans are going forward; what the problems are and how we can tackle those issues.”
Local is lekker
During a media briefing held by Parliament’s Presiding Officers this week, National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula said the holding of SONA has a greater impact beyond the walls of the Cape Town City Hall.
She said Parliament, together with Proudly South African, have come together to encourage guests and Members of Parliament to walk down the red carpet in garments produced by local designers.
“The campaign aims to increase appreciation and visibility for local designers and their creations, and to provide momentum for the growth of the fashion business. This initiative goes beyond mere fashion appreciation; it seeks to connect consumers with the rich stories, culture, and creativity inherent in South African fashion, thereby fostering a sense of pride in local craftsmanship.
"This partnership has far-reaching implications for the country’s economy and the fashion industry. Encouraging public representatives and guests to don local designs sends a powerful message of support for local business, which is crucial for economic growth, job creation, and addressing issues of inequality and poverty.
“This collaboration between Parliament and Proudly South African is not only a celebration of South African talent but also a step towards sustainable development, economic empowerment, and a more responsible fashion industry,” she said.
The local economy is also expected to receive a boost.
“SONA significantly boosts the local economy by attracting increased tourism, media presence, and business activities to the city.
“This influx of visitors and heightened economic activity during the SONA period contributes to job creation and increased revenue for local businesses, including hospitality, transportation, and retail sectors,” she said.
The Speaker encouraged South Africans to have their say on SONA.
“We encourage all South Africans to actively participate in SONA by tuning in and expressing their views across the various communication platforms provided by Parliament, government and mainstream media," said Mapisa-Nqakula.
SONA will be broadcast live on Parliament TV, mainstream broadcasters, and streaming services, ensuring comprehensive access and engagement for everyone across the nation.
"Let us come together as a nation to witness, discuss and reflect on the state of our nation, as we continue to build a more inclusive, prosperous, and resilient South Africa,” Mapisa-Nqakula said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 16:08
Joint media release by Premier Alan Winde and Mireille Wenger, Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities; National budget process causing budget cuts to health, education, social services and more.
The impact of the nationally imposed budget cuts on healthcare provision, as outlined in an open letter signed by hundreds of health workers, academics, doctors, professors and clinicians this week, is simply devastating.
The excellent work done day in and day out by the vital people who are integral to the lives of millions of South Africans in the face of significant challenges, does not go unnoticed, nor unappreciated. These dedicated public servants are at the very heart of the frontline services relied upon by our residents, especially the most vulnerable in our society.
The implications of the nationally imposed cuts go beyond health care services and have hit education and social development services - and every other provincial department. This is exactly what the Western Cape Government warned of and which it is now fighting to stop and reverse.
“The mission of the Western Cape Government is to do all we can, using all available levers, to cushion these blows. However, the hard truth is that the quantum of the budget cuts is now so large that it will be almost impossible to fully mitigate the loss of funding from the national purse” said Premier Alan Winde.
“The fact is that these budget cuts are beyond the control of the provinces because we rely almost entirely on funding from the nationally collected tax revenue. This is then allocated to each of the nine provinces by the National Treasury through the Provincial Equitable Share (PES), to fund the core constitutional mandates of providing, amongst others, health care, education and social development services,” added provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger.
In the Western Cape, the PES accounts for approximately 75% of the budget while Conditional Grants amount to approximately 18% of the total budget. These sources, determined by national government, therefore make up the vast majority (93%) of the budget in the Western Cape.
As things stand, a total of R6.7 billion has been reduced from the Western Cape's PES over the 2024 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) over the next three financial years as part of nationally imposed fiscal consolidation. This amounts to more than the total combined budgets of the provincial Departments of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Economic Development and Tourism, and Cultural Affairs and Sport.
Currently, the Department of Health and Wellness receives 37% of the total Western Cape Provincial budget.
“Over and above these devastating reductions, provinces have not been fully compensated by national government for the 2023 public sector wage agreement, that was centrally negotiated without consultation, and unilaterally imposed on provinces” added provincial Minister Wenger.
Only Health and Education received partial funding of the wage agreement of which Health received 70% and Education received 64.5% of what is required, while all other departments/services have had to absorb the full cost of the wage agreement. In total the funding shortfall of the wage agreement amounts to R1.1 billion for the 2022/23 financial year and recurs over the MTEF.
“The impact of these budget cuts will have a direct impact on critical service delivery in the Western Cape and we are doing all we can to protect these services” said provincial Minister Wenger.
Premier Winde went on to emphasise that “This is why, in November last year, we formally declared an intergovernmental dispute (IGD) with the national government, to fight for the residents of this province, particularly the most vulnerable who rely heavily on these services. Our residents must get their fair share of funding. As much as we are fighting for our vulnerable residents, we are also fighting for our public servants like our health professionals so that they can focus on their critical work. As we head into the next phase of the IGD with the mediations upcoming, we will not back down.”
Minister Wenger confirmed that “There are also other serious concerns regarding the PES. As it stands, the latest census data has not been incorporated into the PES calculations. The result of which is that while the Western Cape is the third largest province in South Africa by population, we only get the fifth largest budget allocation.”
“This government is fighting for our residents to protect our frontline services, our children, those who depend on the public health system, and the most vulnerable in our society” concluded provincial Minister Wenger.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government.
The inaugural Port Alfred Easter Festival is approaching quickly, and we wanted everyone to know what is happening in Port Alfred over the Easter weekend. 29 March – 1 April. What: The Port Alfred Easter Festival is Justin Bekker’s brainchild. He is the chairperson of the Sunshine Coast Tourism Board’s Tourism Events Subcommittee. It is …
The Runified City 50km is set to take place on 25 February along the scenic beachfront of Gqeberha and local athletes will be looking to shine in a race which will be broadcast live through SuperSport on the day. “I am thrilled that our Runified City 50km is ranked by the International Ultrarunners Association as …
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Ms Barbara Creecy, has welcomed the declaration of De Berg Nature Reserve as South Africa's 30th Ramsar site under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance.
“The conservation and restoration of wetlands is crucial to achieving many of our national and global sustainable development goals. Estuaries, marshes and vleis, rivers and lakes, and the biodiversity that they preserve, matter for our health, food supply, tourism, and jobs. Wetlands are vital for humans, ecosystems and our climate, providing essential ecosystem services such as water regulation, including flood control and water purification,” said Minister Creecy.
“Through the Working for Wetlands Programme, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has invested over R1.4 billion in the rehabilitation of 1,873 wetlands and created 43,662 jobs. The Working for Wetlands Programme, which commenced in the year 2000, is being implemented in all 9 provinces of South Africa by a dedicated team of experts working closely with communities,” added Minister Creecy.
De Berg Nature Reserve is located along the headwaters of the Dwars River in the highest part of Mpumalanga approximately, 20 kilometres north of the town of Dullstroom, and lies adjacent to the Verloren Valei Ramsar Site. At an elevation of just over 2300 meters above sea level, the Ramsar site contains the highest altitude wetlands in Mpumalanga, consisting of numerous valley bottom, seep wetlands and mountain streams and represents some of the most pristine and habitat diverse watercourses in the South African grassland biome.
The Ramsar site, which is a biodiversity hotspot, not only supports numerous pristine headwater wetlands but also supports numerous threatened, critically endangered, and vulnerable species of plants and animals. The site falls within the Lydenburg and Sekhukhune centres of plant endemism and has a total of 878 indigenous plant species, which includes 30 plant species that are threatened and near threatened and includes a new species of Bulbine, (B decastroi) which can be found in the valleys of the Reserve.
This site also has 18 species of frogs, 71 reptile species, 432 bird species and a 120 mammal species, including Vandam's girdled lizard (Smaug vandami), various crane species such as blue crane and grey-crowned crane and mountain reedbuck. Many of these species are also rare and vulnerable species and include flocks of up to 30 of the vulnerable Southern Bald Ibis which roosts on the cliffs above Ibis Falls, one of 10 iconic waterfalls which can be found at the site.
Although wetlands cover less than 3% of South Africa's land area, they offer diverse benefits that enrich human well-being. Wetlands are increasingly regarded in South Africa as socio-ecological systems as opposed to only ecological systems. Many of our wetlands are in urban areas and are often the last remaining open areas for recreational use by the public.
“The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) – an entity of DFFE - is also actively contributing to wetland conservation through its comprehensive approach to mapping and understanding this critical ecological infrastructure, emphasizing that informed action today can make a significant difference for the future of wetlands, human well-being and biodiversity. Strategic Water Source Areas (SWSAs) are crucial to South Africa's water security, and various SANBI projects provide insight into land use and protection levels in these strategically important national assets,” said Minister Creecy.
“Through the development of partnerships to monitor, protect and rehabilitate wetlands, by ensuring our wetlands are kept free of litter and invasive alien plant species and by ensuring that we follow best practices to ensure that wetlands are sustainably used for their services we show our appreciation for and acknowledge the value of wetlands and ensure that they remain in place to provide future generations with the same services,” added Minister Creecy.
The designation of De Berg Nature Reserve as South Africa's 30th Ramsar Site under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance coincides with World Wetlands Day (2 February) which is commemorated under the theme “wetlands and human wellbeing”.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Government.
De Berg Nature Reserve declared 30th Ramsar site
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, has welcomed the declaration of De Berg Nature Reserve as South Africa’s 30th Ramsar site under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance.
The Ramsar Convention encourages the designation of sites containing representative, rare or unique wetlands, or wetlands that are important for conserving biological diversity.
“The conservation and restoration of wetlands is crucial to achieving many of our national and global sustainable development goals. Estuaries, marshes and vleis, rivers and lakes, and the biodiversity that they preserve matter for our health, food supply, tourism and jobs.
“Wetlands are vital for humans, ecosystems and our climate, providing essential ecosystem services such as water regulation, including flood control and water purification,” Creecy said on Friday.
Through the Working for Wetlands Programme, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has invested over R1.4 billion in the rehabilitation of 1 873 wetlands and created 43 662 jobs.
The programme commenced in the year 2000 and is being implemented in all nine provinces of South Africa by a dedicated team of experts working closely with communities.
De Berg Nature Reserve is located along the headwaters of the Dwars River in the highest part of Mpumalanga approximately, 20 kilometres north of the town of Dullstroom, and lies adjacent to the Verloren Valei Ramsar Site.
At an elevation of just over 2 300 metres above sea level, the Ramsar site contains the highest altitude wetlands in Mpumalanga, consisting of numerous valley bottom, seep wetlands and mountain streams, and represents some of the most pristine and habitat diverse watercourses in the South African grassland biome.
“The Ramsar site, which is a biodiversity hotspot, not only supports numerous pristine headwater wetlands but also supports numerous threatened, critically endangered, and vulnerable species of plants and animals.
“The site falls within the Lydenburg and Sekhukhune centres of plant endemism, and has a total of 878 indigenous plant species, which includes 30 plant species that are threatened and near threatened, and includes a new species of Bulbine, (B decastroi) which can be found in the valleys of the reserve.
“This site also has 18 species of frogs, 71 reptile species, 432 bird species and a 120 mammal species, including Vandam's girdled lizard (Smaug vandami), various crane species such as blue crane and grey-crowned crane and mountain reedbuck,” the department said.
Many of these species are also rare and vulnerable species. They include flocks of up to 30 of the vulnerable Southern Bald Ibis, which roosts on the cliffs above Ibis Falls, one of 10 iconic waterfalls that can be found at the site.
Although wetlands cover less than 3% of South Africa’s land area, they offer diverse benefits that enrich human well-being.
The department said Wetlands are increasingly regarded in South Africa as socio-ecological systems as opposed to only ecological systems.
Many of the country’s wetlands are in urban areas and are often the last remaining open areas for recreational use by the public.
“The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) – an entity of DFFE - is also actively contributing to wetland conservation through its comprehensive approach to mapping and understanding this critical ecological infrastructure, emphasizing that informed action today can make a significant difference for the future of wetlands, human well-being and biodiversity.
“Strategic Water Source Areas (SWSAs) are crucial to South Africa’s water security, and various SANBI projects provide insight into land use and protection levels in these strategically important national assets,” Creecy said.
The designation of De Berg Nature Reserve as South Africa’s 30th Ramsar Site under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance coincides with World Wetlands Day (2 February) which is commemorated under the theme “wetlands and human wellbeing”.
Once designated, these sites are added to the Convention's List of Wetlands of International Importance and become known as Ramsar sites. In designating a wetland as a Ramsar site, countries agree to establish and oversee a management framework aimed at conserving the wetland and ensuring its wise use.
“Through the development of partnerships to monitor, protect and rehabilitate wetlands, by ensuring our wetlands are kept free of litter and invasive alien plant species and by ensuring that we follow best practices to ensure that wetlands are sustainably used for their services we show our appreciation for and acknowledge the value of wetlands and ensure that they remain in place to provide future generations with the same services,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 02/02/2024 - 09:50
Port Shepstone Civic Centre under Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality was a hive of activity on Tuesday, 30 January 2024 as local SMEs attended the Investor Workshop on the new Ugu District One Stop Shop. Hosted by South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) in partnership with Trade & Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN), the workshop showcased investment …
The recent official release of international arrival figures by Statistics South Africa for January to December 2023 underscores the rising momentum of South Africa's tourism sector.
International tourist arrivals from January to December 2023 totalled 8.5 million, representing a remarkable 48.9% increase when compared with same period in 2022.
Africa continues to lead the Way
Strong Momentum from the Americas
Strength in European Markets
Noteworthy growth from the Asia markets
Robust Gains in the Middle East
Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille expressed delight at the impressive numbers from the African continent and highlighted the strategic decisions that contributed to the growth in specific markets.
She adds “Kenya's remarkable performance can be attributed to the strategic decision by government to simplify the visa regime in 2023 as well as targeted and effective insights-driven marketing campaigns”.
“This recovery can be attributed to consistent efforts to showcase South Africa as a welcoming, responsible tourism destination, highlighting experiences that align with intrepid, green economy conscious travellers,” the Minister said.
Minister de Lille emphasised the charm and magnetism of South Africa as a tourism destination, with specific mention of the reopening of the Chinese market and the resumption of direct flight routes in 2023.
Looking ahead, Minister de Lille emphasised the need to unlock barriers such as visa regulations and limited air access and airlift for sustained growth.
The Minister expressed commitment to working with partners and government colleagues to facilitate policy and regulation revisions.
In conclusion, minister de Lille thanked all visitors for choosing to visit South African and likewise thanks South Africans for their continuous hospitality and warm welcome to visitors, expressing optimism for sustained charm, attractiveness, and relentless tourism growth.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Tourism, Republic of South Africa.
Increase in international arrivals in 2023
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has expressed delight at the impressive number of travellers coming to South Africa from the African continent and has highlighted the strategic decisions that contributed to the growth in specific markets.
This comes after Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) said from January to December 2023, South Africa recorded an increase in the number of international arrivals which underscored the rising momentum of South Africa's tourism sector.
According to Stats SA, international tourist arrivals from January to December 2023 totalled 8.5 million, representing a remarkable 48.9% increase when compared with the same period in 2022.
South Africa welcomed 6.4 million visitors from the rest of the African continent between January and December 2023, marking a significant 75.6% of all arrivals.
Zimbabwe and Kenya stood out for their remarkable growth, with Zimbabwe experiencing a 70.8% increase in tourist arrivals to South Africa when compared to 2022, totalling 2.1 million arrivals, while Kenya recorded a 99% surge when compared to 2022, reaching 42 403 arrivals for January to December 2023.
“Kenya’s remarkable performance can be attributed to the strategic decision by government to simplify the visa regime in 2023 as well as targeted and effective insights-driven marketing campaigns,” de Lille said.
“This recovery can be attributed to consistent efforts to showcase South Africa as a welcoming, responsible tourism destination, highlighting experiences that align with intrepid, green economy conscious travellers,” the Minister said.
Tourist arrivals from the Americas registered at 455 901 reflecting a 39.8% growth compared to the same period in 2022.
The United States of America saw 353 975 arrivals to South Africa, marking a 35% increase compared to 2022.
Strength in European markets
From January to December 2023, South Africa saw 1.2 million tourist arrivals from Europe, a 38.2% increase compared to the same period in 2022.
The United Kingdom remains the top European source market with 356 160 tourists choosing South Africa, marking a 25.8% growth compared to 2022.
Germany experienced a 41.6% increase in arrivals compared to 2022, amounting to 245 259 tourists.
This was followed by the Netherlands which saw an increase of 45.5% when compared to 2022, amounting to 131 371 tourist arrivals between January and December 2023.
Russia exhibited a dramatic growth of 74.7% when compared to 2022, contributing 28 357 arrivals in 2023
Noteworthy growth from the Asian markets
Asian markets also showed significant growth with a total 199 308 arrivals from the region, representing an astounding 69.1% when compared to the same period in 2022.
South Africa welcomed 79 774 tourists from India, a 43.7% growth compared to 2022
Notably, there were 37 164 arrivals from China, a massive 204.9% surge in 2023 when compared to 2022
Robust gains in the Middle East
The Middle East saw a robust increase with 54 339 arrivals in the January to December 2023 period - a 33.7% growth when compared to the same period in 2022. South Africa received 16 351 arrivals from Saudi Arabia in 2023, marking an increase of 42.6% when compared to 2022. The United Arab Emirates saw 6 511 arrivals to South Africa, a remarkable 110% increase when compared to 2022.
The Minister emphasised the charm and magnetism of South Africa as a tourism destination, with specific mention of the reopening of the Chinese market and the resumption of direct flight routes in 2023.
Looking ahead, de Lille said there was a need to unlock barriers such as visa regulations and limited air access and airlift for sustained growth.
The Minister expressed commitment to working with partners and government colleagues to facilitate policy and regulation revisions.
She thanked all the visitors for choosing to visit South Africa and likewise thanked South Africans for their continuous hospitality and warm welcome shown to visitors. - SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 01/31/2024 - 11:22
SA sends first shipment under AfCFTA agreement
The implementation of the preferential trading under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has become a reality with South Africa sending its first shipment of products to other countries trading under the agreement.
South Africa is the first among the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) member states, which consists of Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, and Swaziland, to practically realise the AfCFTA Agreement.
“For South Africa, as with many other African countries, the start of preferential trade will create great opportunities for growth and development. Not only will it benefit our country’s producers, but it will also see a huge increase in traffic through our ports, our airports and our land-based border posts.
“The products made in Gauteng, Limpopo, North West, Free State, Mpumalanga and the Northern Cape will flow through these ports to markets beyond our borders,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Wednesday in Durban.
Officiating the launch of South Africa's first shipment and preferential trading under the AfCFTA, the President said the levels of intra-African trade have been growing in recent years, but remain small by global standards.
Intra-Africa exports are reported to stand at around 16% of Africa’s total exports, compared to 55% in Asia, 49% in North America and 63% in the European Union.
“African countries trade with the rest of the world but we have limited trade among ourselves. The reason for this is clear: we are principally exporters of raw materials, selling rocks and black liquid to the world, instead of harnessing our oil and the minerals to industrialise our continent. We need to change this.
“We have a unique opportunity to lift millions of people out of poverty by empowering women and young people to change the continent’s business environment. That is why, as the South African government, we are focused on implementing our Freight Logistics Roadmap to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of the country’s rail lines and ports,” the President said.
He said government is working closely with industry to fix Transnet’s rail and port operations in the immediate term and to ensure greater investment in infrastructure into the future.
“Over the last few years, our trade ministers have been finalising rules of origin of what constitutes an African product. They have done well to finalise 92% of the products that nations trade with each other. We need them to be even bolder in further rules of origin. The products that we trade among ourselves must truly be ‘Made in Africa’.
"The modalities for trade in goods has moved faster than for services. We therefore need to put more effort into building African champions in finance, retail and telecommunications, and in expanding tourism between African countries. That is the only way in which our economies will grow faster and sustainably,” President Ramaphosa said.
The African Continental Free Trade Area creates the world’s largest free trade area by number of countries, and has the potential to bring transformative change and tremendous opportunities to African economies and businesses.
The President said the implementation of the agreement will accelerate the development of regional and local value chains, offering investors access to a population of 1.7 billion people with a fast-growing continental gross domestic product (GDP).
“Industrial development is core to Africa’s integration. It builds Africa’s productive capacities, adds greater value to our products and diversifies trade beyond the traditional commodities. We have already seen the potential of greater cross-border collaboration.
“South African automotive companies source leather car seats from a factory in Lesotho employing close to a thousand workers and wiring harnesses from Botswana at two plants employing several thousand workers,” Ramaphosa said.
They source copper wire from Zambia, rubber from Cote d’Ivoire, Nigeria, Malawi, Ghana and Cameroon, and steering wheel components from Tunisia.
“These are installed in cars that are then exported from South Africa to other parts of the world. These inputs alone accounted for more than $200 million worth of products traded among African countries and the scope to do more is available to us.
“But it requires bold rules of origin. For every one percent of extra African content, there is an opportunity for a factory or mine based on the continent to supply the products. And as the world moves to green industrialisation, Africa is well positioned to use our critical minerals to leverage industrialisation on the continent,” the President said.
He said the opportunities are vast, with prospects in food and beverages, in cars and trucks, in clothing and textiles.
“We have the capacity to produce more of our own pharmaceutical products and medical equipment. Investment can flow to the production of chemicals, machinery and equipment, household goods and many, many more.
“Beyond the industrialisation of which I have spoken, this continental market can help us promote agricultural development and food security. Through our work, we can ensure that young people and women-owned firms are active in export markets,” the President said.
He said the Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade will help ensure that the African Continental Free Trade Area contributes to inclusive growth and development. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 01/31/2024 - 13:15
Have your say on National Small Enterprise Amendment Bill
The Select Committee on Trade and Industry, Economic Development, Small Business Development, Tourism, Employment and Labour has invited stakeholders and interested parties to make written submissions on the National Small Enterprise Amendment Bill [B16B – 2023] (sec 76).
The Bill seeks to amend the National Small Enterprise Act, 1996, in order to amend, delete, insert and to substitute certain definitions.
It also aims to provide for the report of the Advisory Body; provide for the establishment of the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency and provide for the functions of the Agency; to ensure the provision of financial and non-financial support services to small enterprises, and promote the development of sustainable and responsible co-operative banking.
The Bill further seeks to provide for the establishment of the Office of the Small Enterprise Ombud Service; enable an equitable trading environment for small enterprises through the provision of affordable and effective access to justice; empower the Minister to declare certain practices in relation to small enterprises to be prohibited as unfair trading practices, and to provide for the transitional arrangements necessitated by the establishment of the Agency.
The Bill also seeks to effect consequential or necessary amendments to the Co-operative Banks Act, 2007, and to the Co-operatives Act, 2005 and provide for matters connected therewith.
“Interested individuals and stakeholders wishing to comment are kindly requested to forward written submissions to the Committee by no later than 12:00pm on Friday, 16 February 2024.
"Those who want to make submissions at public hearings should specifically request this, but it should be noted that the granting of such requests for oral submission resides with the Committee,” Parliament said.
Copies of the Bill are available at www.parliament.gov.za and all correspondence can be addressed to Mr M Rayi, Chairperson: SC on Trade and Industry, Economic Development, Small Business Development, Tourism, Employment and Labour.
Submissions should be forwarded to the following email addresses: mkoff@parliament.gov.za and ndinizulu@parliament.gov.za. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 01/30/2024 - 10:45
Ten families who settled on land in 2019 have to move to make way for housing development
Suitable for Both Small Businesses and Large Enterprises, New Cloud-based Platform Streamlines Management of LG Digital Signage Solutions BARCELONA, Jan. 26, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) is set to unveil its innovative cloud solution platform, LG Business Cloud, at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2024. The convenient, new platform allows business customers to browse and subscribe …
Yesterday, 25 January, the Premier of North West, Kaobitsa Bushy Maape paid a courtesy visit to the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of South Africa in Thailand, H.E. Mr. Darkey Ephraim Africa. Premier Maape is in Thailand for medical assessment. Despite his tight medical programme, the Premier made time to visit the South African Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand to explore opportunities for the Province.
During their meeting, both Premier Maape and Ambassador Africa discussed a wide rage of issues, more specifically the economic challenges of the North West Province and its impact on the youth. They agreed on the need to identify trade and investment opportunities in Thailand for the North West Province. They further agreed on the need to invite investors from Thailand in the areas of agriculture, infrastructure automotive, renewable energy and tourism.
On his part, Ambassador Africa acknowledged Premier Maape's desire to mobilise trade and investment for his Province. He requested the South African Embassy to invite various agencies such as North West Development Corporation, the North West Housing Corporation and other business people to Thailand to further explore opportunities in trade and investment following his engagement with Ambassador Africa. The Ambassador and the Political Counsellor, Mrs. Thobeka Dlamini assured the Premier that the Embassy will invite the Province at the appropriate time for engagement. Premier Maape accompanied by the Ambassador, also met Mr. Ravi Puri, a prominent businessman in real estate and hospitality to explore other opportunities in real estate. The Premier will depart Bangkok after completion of his medical engagement.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of North West Office of the Premier, Republic of South Africa.
Township and village tourism have a lot to offer
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille says township and village tourism have much to offer in terms of boosting the economy.
“I firmly believe that township and village tourism has so much to offer and so much untapped potential and we must place more focus on this area to showcase our hidden gems and the true magic of our villages and townships,” de Lille said.
Addressing the inaugural Township and Village Tourism Expo hosted by the SA Township and Village Tourism Organisation (SATOVITO) at the Cradle of Humankind, in Morapeng on Thursday, de Lille said the expo aims to shine a light on tourism products in villages and townships where people from disadvantaged backgrounds are breaking through barriers to take their claim in the tourism sector.
“I have found only warm, kind and committed people in tourism in every part of this country and I look forward to exploring even more hidden gems this year and pushing harder with all partners to take the entire tourism sector to the next level,” De Lille said.
De Lille commended the organisers of expo for their objective to foster strong community engagement by involving local residents, community leaders, and stakeholders in the planning and execution of the expo.
“Promoting township and village tourism is an integral part of diversifying our tourism offerings so that we can grow the economy, the sector and the number of jobs created by this sector.
“I am therefore pleased that the South African National Convention Bureau has provided financial support to this expo and that SA Tourism has also supported it through marketing it at global events such as World Travel Market London.
“I have often said that we must place more on emphasising township and village tourism, especially in the annual Sho’t Left campaign and later today there will be workshop on this annual campaign by SA Tourism,” the Minister said.
De Lille said her department wanted to help the organisers to achieve their vision to develop townships and villages into smart residential and business hubs that foster job creation, social cohesion and market indigenous tourism experiences.
“We are your partner to transform the tourism industry and expand the value chain to be more inclusive and attract tourism investment to townships and villages.
“We need to showcase our culture, history, indigenous cultures and people to visitors from all over the world because I am certain that those are the experiences that will leave them with memories they will treasure forever and stories that will captivate them for years to come.
“We need to do better at marketing our history and cultures and show more people places like what is known as “Nobel Street” where we showcase Vilikazi Street in Soweto as being the homes of two Nobel Peace Laureates, our dear Tata Madiba and Archbishop Desmond Tutu,” de Lille said.
De Lille said history has helped transform the area around Vilikazi Street into a thriving business community but there are many more spaces and places like these all over South Africa which can be showcased.
The Tourism Incentive Programme is a package of support programmes aimed at stimulating the growth, development and transformation of the South African Tourism sector.
“Through these incentives, the department aims to transform and achieve accelerated growth in the tourism sector. This in turn contributes to the achievement of the department’s objectives to stimulate enterprise growth, job creation, revenue growth and an enhanced visitor experience,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 01/25/2024 - 12:49
Saudi Arabia market presents enormous growth opportunities for SA
The South African - Saudi Arabia Business Council has committed to boosting trade as part of efforts to grow the economies of both countries.
In 2023, South Africa's exports to Saudi Arabia increased to R7.3 billion from R6.6 billion in 2022, while imports from Saudi Arabia decreased to R54.6 billion in 2023 from R73.6 billion in 2022.
The exported goods include agricultural products, motor vehicles, and basic chemicals, whereas the import items mainly consisted of refined petroleum and related products and crude oil.
Speaking at a press briefing in honour of the visiting Saudi business delegation, Co-Chair of the South African–Saudi Arabia Business Council, Stavros Nicolaou, underscored the need to increase trade and investment.
“From my vantage point, the Saudi Arabia market presents enormous growth opportunities for South African companies looking to expand their businesses in the gulf region as shown by local companies that are slowly establishing a presence in that region,” Nicolaou said.
President Cyril Ramaphosa and Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition Ebrahim Patel have been leading ongoing engagements between South Africa and Saudi Arabia - which have since resulted in local businesses finding a foothold in the vast Saudi Arabia market.
Also speaking at the same media briefing, Dr Hisham Al Amoudi, Vice-Chairman of the Saudi–South Africa Business Council, reaffirmed Saudi Arabia's commitment to investing in South Africa.
Al Amoudi said the South Africa and Saudi Arabia Joint Economic Commission and the Business Council was a good platform to further progress and boost inward investments between the two respective countries.
He said Saudi Arabia is committed to increasing investment across various sectors in South Africa.
"We are committed to increasing investments for mutual benefits and supporting South Africa’s economic growth. Our current investments contribute to South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product,” Al Amoudi said.
The visit by the Saudi business delegation aims to not only strengthen current trade relations but also to explore opportunities for South African companies to increase market access with products that have high export potential to Saudi Arabia.
These products include motor vehicles for the transport of persons, fruits, mineral resources, chemicals, machinery and electrical equipment.
Additionally, the Saudi delegation seeks to boost investment from Saudi Arabia in sectors beyond South Africa’s renewable energy industry. Currently, Saudi is the largest investor in South Africa's local renewable energy sector and ACWA Power has a leading role in this area.
Overall, it is estimated that Saudi investment into South Africa amounts to $1.62 billion.
The Business Council focuses on five main workstreams - energy and renewable energy, tourism, hospitality and entertainment, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, mining and commodities, and food and agro-processing. These areas aim to utilise investment capital from Saudi Arabia while tapping into the opportunities that South Africa offers in these sectors. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 01/25/2024 - 08:54
Free State arts town now manages its own electricity load
Eskom has announced that the Free State town of Clarens, in the eastern part of the province, has become South Africa’s first town where residents are now equipped to manage their own electricity load through load curtailment.
Eskom Free State Senior Manager for Retail, Bibi Bedir, explained that although many municipalities and large customers have been engaging in load curtailment, “group curtailment – where a community manages its own load curtailment – was however piloted in Clarens”.
“Group curtailment requires the collaborative efforts of the entire community to reduce load when requested. Once a system emergency is declared, Eskom gives a nominated group coordinator two hours’ notice of load curtailment that should be sustained throughout load shedding. The group coordinator directs the community who decides which equipment will be switched off to achieve the required demand reduction.
“For the residents of a tiny town that depends on an economic inflow from tourists visiting their small businesses mostly over weekends and holidays, power interruptions due to load shedding required a solution that would allow the town’s economy to thrive while still contributing to a reduction in electricity demand when the national grid is under strain,” Bedir said.
The town’s nominated group coordinator, Gert Kruger, described the move as “life changing” for businesses in the town.
In Clarens, curtailment compliance is managed through an application that was developed by a company managed by Kruger, which signals to customers that load curtailment has been called.
“For a town that depends on tourism, not being subjected to load shedding is life changing. Although the success depends on the voluntary participation of residents and businesses, we have the community’s support as everyone benefits from cooperating.
“Feedback from visitors, restaurants and accommodation establishments is very positive and without the noise of generators, tourists can enjoy Clarens’ natural beauty,” Kruger said.
Monitoring compliance
Eskom explained that during curtailment Stages 1 to 4, customers are asked to reduce electricity demand by some 10 to 20%.
“Unlike load shedding where the customers are switched off as per their schedule, load curtailment must be sustained. Eskom continuously monitors the reduction in demand of its curtailment customers, as three instances of non-compliance will result in the reinstatement of normal load shedding,” the power utility said.
In Clarens, curtailment compliance is managed through an application that was developed by a company managed by Kruger, which signals to customers that load curtailment has been called.
“[This] acts as a trigger for residents to set their load reduction plans in motion. A meter was installed at the town’s main point of supply. Every 60 seconds, the meter sends real-time statistics of the town’s current demand, prompting further reduction if required.
“So far, the project is successful with residents being able to sufficiently reduce and manage their load, making the Clarens project a benchmark for similar projects to be rolled out in other areas of the country.
“As Clarens is already gearing up for smart city initiatives with smart metering and electrical vehicle charging stations already installed, as well as a well-diverse spread of small-scale embedded generators (SSEGs), Eskom was eager to help Clarens' residents in the evolution from an art town to a smart town,” the power utility said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 01/24/2024 - 09:45
Take part in the Green Tourism Incentive Programme
The Department of Tourism has invited eligible tourism enterprises to take part in the Green Tourism Incentive Programme’s (GTIP) 9th application window, opening on 25 January until 31 March 2024.
The development of the GTIP was informed by escalating electricity prices, the intensifying pressure on the national energy grid and negative impacts of load shedding, as well as water scarcity and drought conditions which negatively impact the tourism sector.
This programme encourages private sector tourism enterprises to move towards the installation of solutions for the sustainable management and usage of electricity and water resources.
GTIP has already assisted 173 tourism businesses across the country with electricity and water solutions to the total grant value of R104 285 673.
The solutions that were installed as part of this process helped reduce input costs and increase operational sustainability and competitiveness. A further 419 active applications are at various stages of processing, according to the department.
For this financial year, the department has set aside R199 151 179 to disburse to successful GTIP applicants.
The department said it has worked closely with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to develop the GTIP for the sector to ensure an enhanced and uninterrupted visitor experience for tourists. Funding applications and approvals for the GTIP are managed by the IDC.
Eligible applicants are able to qualify for the full cost of a new energy and water efficiency audit or the review of an existing audit.
Furthermore, eligible applicants are also able to qualify for grant funding of between 50% and 90% (capped at a maximum of R1 million per applicant) on the cost of approved solutions that will improve energy and water efficiency and reduce the costs of their tourism operations.
“This programme is one that I am most proud of that the department is able to offer the tourism sector where by going green, tourism establishments are able to offer an uninterrupted visitor experience and ensure that the sector can continue to operate despite energy and water constraints,” Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said.
“This initiative is also vital to our efforts to adapt and mitigate to the impacts of climate change by helping businesses use water wisely and use clean forms of energy thereby reducing carbon emissions.
“I encourage businesses to apply for this support by the Department of Tourism so that we can keep the tourism sector green,” de Lille said.
The GTIP has yielded many success stories.
Ingrid Young of Cliffhanger Cottage from Rheenendal, Knysna, is one of the guesthouse owners the department assisted with water tanks and installation of solar panels for generating energy as well as pumping water in her establishment through the GTIP.
She confidently said she is now able to accommodate her customers as she can operate her business with ease.
“This programme installed solar panels which is assisting me in heating geysers, cooking as well as pumping of water from the borehole. I am content as my tourism business is now booming, because of the number of bookings I receive,” Mehlomakulu Mehlomakulu from Fort Hook Guesthouse in Phelandaba outside Sterkspruit in the Eastern Cape said, thanking the department.
Anthony Maitland, the owner of Teniqua Tree Tops Guesthouse situated between Thatchfield and Knysna, said: “The water pumping system in my guesthouse as well as frequent load shedding in the area used to be a huge problem until the installation of solar panels which is assisting with the water pumping system as well as curbing load shedding in my guesthouse.
“I am now at ease to operate the business without any fear of energy outages. I can recommend this programme to emerging and existing tourism establishments.”
The GTIP does not only assist in reducing pressure on the national electricity grid and water resources of the country, but also reduce operational input cost and facilitate increased competitiveness and operational sustainability in the tourism sector.
The department said it continues to advance climate action in tourism for the resilience of the sector as well as strengthening adaptive capacity.
For more information or to apply for the GTIP programme visit www.tourism.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 01/23/2024 - 15:23
The Department of Tourism invites all eligible tourism enterprises to take part in the Green Tourism Incentive Programme's (GTIP) 9th application window, opening on 25 January until 31 March 2024.
The development of the GTIP was informed by escalating electricity prices, the intensifying pressure on the national energy grid and negative impacts of load-shedding, as well as water scarcity and drought conditions which negatively impact the tourism sector. This programme encourages private sector tourism enterprises to move towards the installation of solutions for the sustainable management and usage of electricity and water resources.
For this financial year, the Department has set aside R199 151 179 to disburse to successful GTIP applicants. GTIP has already assisted 173 tourism businesses across the country with electricity and water solutions to the total grant value of R104 285 673. The solutions that were installed as part of this process helped reduce input costs and increase operational sustainability and competitiveness. A further 419 active applications are at various stages of processing.
The Department has worked closely with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to develop the GTIP for the sector to ensure an enhanced and uninterrupted visitor experience for tourists.
Funding applications and approvals for the GTIP are managed by the IDC.
Eligible applicants are able to qualify for the full cost of a new energy and water efficiency audit or the review of an existing audit. Furthermore, eligible applicants are also able to qualify for grant funding of between 50% and 90% (capped at a maximum of R1 million per applicant) on the cost of approved solutions that will improve energy and water efficiency and reduce the costs of their tourism operations.
Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille said: “This programme is one that I am most proud of that the department is able to offer the tourism sector where by going green, tourism establishments are able to offer an uninterrupted visitor experience and ensure that the sector can continue to operate despite energy and water constraints. This initiative is also vital to our efforts to adapt and mitigate the impacts of climate change by helping businesses use water wisely and use clean forms of energy thereby reducing carbon emissions. I encourage businesses to apply for this support by the Department of Tourism so that we can keep the tourism sector green”.
GTIP has yielded many success stories. Mr Mpho Marothi from Kgarebana Boutique Guesthouse near KwaMhlanga township in Mpumalanga stated that the solar system which was installed in November 2023, was an early Christmas gift as his establishment was fully booked this festive season.
“My guesthouse is now able to operate 24-hours without any hassles of loadshedding, because of the solar system which was installed by the Department of Tourism. The solar system assistsin providing power supply for air-conditioning, heating of geysers and other household purposes in my guesthouse and as such, I can recommend the GTIP to emerging and existing tourism establishments,” said Mr Marothi.
Ms Ingrid Young of Cliffhanger Cottage from Rheenendal, Knysna, is one of the guesthouse owners the Department assisted with water tanks and installation of a solar system for generating energy as well as pumping water in her establishment through the GTIP. She confidently said she is now able to accommodate her customers as she can operate her business with ease at all times.
Thanking the Department, Ms Maureen Mehlomakulu from Fort Hook Guesthouse in Phelandaba outside Sterkspruit in the Eastern Cape said: “This programme installed a solar system which is assisting me in heating geysers, cooking as well as pumping of water from the borehole. I am content as my tourism business is now booming, because of the number of bookings I receive.”
The owner of Teniqua Tree Tops Guesthouse situated between Thatchfield and Knysna, Mr Anthony Maitland stated: “The water pumping system in my guesthouse as well as frequent loadshedding in the area used to be a huge problem until the installation of a solar system which is assisting with the water pumping system as well as curbing loadshedding in my guesthouse. I am now at ease to operate the business without any fear of energy outages. I can recommend this programme to emerging and existing tourism establishments.''
The GTIP does not only assist in reducing pressure on the national electricity grid and water resources of the country, but also reduce operational input cost and facilitate increased competitiveness and operational sustainability in the tourism sector. The Department continues to advance climate action in tourism for the resilience of the sector as well as strengthening adaptive capacity.
For more information or to apply for the GTIP programme, visit www.Tourism.gov.za
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Tourism, Republic of South Africa.
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