City of Cape Town and Newlands to host Betway SA20 Final
City of Cape Town announced as Host City for the Betway SA20 Final on 10 February 2024 – the partnership...
Tourism
KZN South Coast coffee now stocked at vida e caffè across KZN
The South African coffee industry is fast finding its place in the global market with demand expected to rise from 10 million to 12 million tonnes worldwide by 2032. One coffee collective, with members from the KZN South Coast, is rising to meet that demand, and a partnership with vida e caffè will see Redberry …
Initiative seeks to combat alien species
Initiative seeks to combat alien species
Government has launched a five-year programme worth R2.67 billion to implement the Working for Water Programme, which aims to eradicate invasive alien plants in communities.
Addressing the launch of the Gauteng Working for Water Environmental Programme in Heidelberg, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Barbara Creecy said over the next five years the department aims to create 38 839 work opportunities every year primarily in rural communities.
"Biological invasions by alien plants is a major threat to biodiversity and ecosystem services, water resources and sustainable livelihoods. Invasive species exacerbate floods, droughts and wildfires, and have negative impacts for the forestry and agriculture sectors.
“In short, biological invasions will exacerbate the effects of context of climate change and the extreme weather events associated with global warming. It is for this reason our department is happy today to announce this five-year programme to combat alien species and the damage they do to our land, wetlands and rivers,” Creecy said on Friday.
The South African National Biodiversity Institute’s (SANBI) 2019 Report on Biological Invasions details the impact of invasive species on South Africa’s biodiversity and economy.
Invasive trees use 3-5% of South Africa’s runoff water every year, which is a significant loss for a water-scarce country.
"Many species of invasive plants are also less drought-resistant than indigenous ones and pose a greater fire risk. By displacing indigenous species and creating single species plantations, alien invasive also undermine our country’s rich biodiversity, which in turn negatively impacts our tourism potential.
“Invasive species also interfere in natural processes that can help mitigate the effects of natural disasters through the provision of ecosystem services, examples being the role estuaries, wetlands and indigenous forests play during natural disasters such as cyclones and floods.
“Thus, by clearing waterways and managing the spread of invasive species we are restoring natural habitats and simultaneously restoring ecosystem services that will assist us in the fight against the effects of climate change,” the Minister said.
To ensure sustainable clearing of alien species on a regular basis as well as sustained public employment, the department has made its contracting over a longer five-year period, as opposed to short-term contracts in the previous cycle.
For local small enterprises in rural communities, this also offers a reliable revenue that can assist the enterprises to invest their businesses to ensure future opportunities.
“This means that the Working for Water Programme is growing and is advancing the inclusion of previously disadvantaged enterprises to participate more meaningfully in the value chain of clearing invasive alien species. In this way the Working for Water Programme advances transformation and prioritises the inclusive economy policies of government,” the Minister said.
The department has committed R2.67 billion to clear hectares while creating 194 195 work opportunities over a five-year period.
“Today marks the launch of the Gauteng Working for Water Programme to the value of R152 million to implement projects across the five Gauteng municipalities namely, the City of Tshwane, City of Joburg, West Rand, Sedibeng, and the City of Ekurhuleni.
“In Gauteng, the Working for Water Programme will clear 74 781 hectares over a period of five years, starting from 2023/2024. During this five year period, we are aiming to create 13 615 work opportunities through the EPWP model,” the Minister said.
The department also collaborates with the South African National Parks (SANParks) to implement the Working for Water Programme.
SANParks has been allocated R 947 710 million to create 90 710 work opportunities through clearing 431 237 hectares over a five year period. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 11/17/2023 - 11:19
107 views
R1.5b plant nears completion at Richards Bay IDZ
R1.5b plant nears completion at Richards Bay IDZ
Plans are underway to ensure that more land is acquired to enable local communities to be involved in the production of the raw materials required by the Wilmar Palm Oil refinery plant in Richards Bay.
This is according to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA).
Speaking during a tour of the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone, Acting Head of the Department, Dr Thandeka Ellenson, who was representing MEC Siboniso Duma, expressed her appreciation to the IDZ Board for the amazing work that has been done by the management and all categories of staff.
“MEC Siboniso Duma is encouraged by the fact that the construction of Wilmar Palm Oil, originally from Singapore, is nearing completion. About R1.5 billion has been invested to produce margarine and other edible oils,” Ellenson said.
Ellenson said plans are underway to ensure that more land is acquired to enable local communities to be involved in the production of the raw material required by the plant.
Wilmar has been successfully convinced to ensure the optimisation of local content, whereby sunflower and soya beans could add into raw input that could be sourced locally.
“To achieve this, a cluster for local content will be developed to do an operation to crush sunflower oil. This is done to ensure sustained access to jobs and economic opportunities for local communities in the land under Amakhosi,” Ellenson said.
Richards Bay IDZ Board Chairperson Advocate Bheki Mbili emphasised the need for the board to continue to play a strong oversight role over management and all categories of staff.
“This would ensure that the vision of the entity is realised for the benefit of millions of unemployed people who are waiting impatiently for jobs and access to economic opportunities,” Mbili said.
The Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone has the responsibility of encouraging international export competitiveness. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 11/16/2023 - 13:18
436 views
SA, Qatar bolster relations
SA, Qatar bolster relations
President Cyril Ramaphosa has deemed his visit to Qatar as significant, saying it serves as an opportunity to discuss and share views on the recent international developments.
“This visit is very significant, not only as an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations between our two countries, but also to share views on recent international developments.
“The events in Palestine, and the growing deaths of civilians, particularly children, grieves us all. South Africa supports all efforts to secure an immediate and full ceasefire, with talks on a political solution to address the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people for statehood,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President was delivering remarks at the Qatar - South Africa Business Roundtable in Doha, Qatar, on Wednesday.
President Ramaphosa is currently on a two-day State Visit in Qatar at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar.
The visit occurs in the context of three decades of diplomatic relations. The two countries will celebrate the 30th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations on 11 May 2024. This is President Ramaphosa's first visit to the State of Qatar as Head of State.
President Ramaphosa told the roundtable that while the political relationship between the two countries is strong, much more can be done with each other in areas of trade, investment and economic development.
“For this reason, I am particularly pleased that I have had an opportunity to engage with both the Qatari Business Association and the Qatar Chamber of Commerce earlier. I want to point to five features of the South African economy that offer us the opportunity to build and expand our economic relationship,” he said.
Firstly, the President highlighted that South Africa is Africa’s most industrialised economy with well-established companies.
He told the roundtable that many of these companies are active in the Middle East and Qatar. The President mentioned companies like Sasol in the petro-chemical sector with its advanced technologies and iconic consumer brands such as Nandos and Ocean Basket.
“South African has well developed manufacturing and services sectors. South African agriculture and agro-processing companies are world class, and we can support the Food Security Program of the State of Qatar.
“Beyond these, South Africa is developing its expertise in areas such as pharmaceuticals, the space industry and advanced manufacturing,” he said.
Secondly, the President said South Africa is developing greater market access across the world.
He mentioned that the country has free trade agreements in place with the European Union and the United Kingdom and is about to implement the African Continental Free Trade Area, uniting 54 economies into a large tariff-free market intended to cover 1.3 billion consumers.
In addition, South Africa currently has access to the US market on preferential terms through the African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA) and preferential access to certain Latin American markets.
Thirdly, President Ramaphosa emphasised that the African continent has vast resources of critical minerals that will be used as the world embraces cleaner, greener growth.
With Qatar’s experience, technology and capital in the petrochemicals, natural gas and energy infrastructure, President Ramaphosa said government is looking to companies from Qatar partnering with South Africa as it implement its just energy transition.
Fourthly, the President highlighted that the country is embarking on far-ranging economic reforms that provide opportunities for partnerships between foreign investors and domestic firms in South Africa.
He said the energy market is being restructured. The public electricity utility, Eskom, which faced severe challenges, has improved maintenance of its generation fleet and has received debt relief from the State to strengthen its financial position.
“Private energy generation, specifically in renewables, constitutes a growing share of total energy generated. Since the implementation of regulatory changes, the pipeline of private sector generation projects has increased to over 100 projects representing more than 10,000 MW of potential new capacity,” he said.
Fifthly, the President told the business roundtable that the country has a stable legal system, strong protections of property rights, a deep capital market with Africa’s largest stock exchange, and a growing pool of skilled employees.
“South Africa is ready to build partnerships for faster, sustainable and inclusive growth. South Africa is keen to deepen our bilateral relationship with Qatar. We look forward to partnering in sectors such as agro-processing, automotive, aquaculture, manufacturing, hydrocarbons, infrastructure, hospitality and tourism, to mention a few.
“I invite Qatar to join us in developing a portfolio of South African investments that your sovereign wealth fund and your private sector can participate in,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa commended the business delegations from South Africa and Qatar for their engagement, adding that he look forward to successful outcomes. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 11/15/2023 - 15:20
464 views
Tourism safety a top priority
Tourism safety a top priority
The National Tourism Safety Strategy is aimed at fostering a public-private sector partnership to address issues of tourism safety in a more coordinated manner.
“The measures aim to provide an enhanced visitor experience and in the long-term, change perceptions of South Africa as an unsafe destination,” Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said on Tuesday.
She was addressing members of the Diplomatic Corps in Pretoria on tourism safety issues.
De Lille explained that the National Tourism Safety Strategy is centered on three key themes which include proactive measures, responsive measures and aftercare programmes.
“It is about putting in place mechanisms to ensure that tourists, both domestic and international, feel safe even before arriving at the destination,” she said, adding that the mechanisms seek to ensure quick and effective turnaround time to attend to tourists in distress should an incident of crime occur.
“This is about stakeholder coordination and communication in terms of messaging and protocols to follow. We have since set up a committee led by the private sector under Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) to develop clear Crisis Management Communications Plan and Protocols.
“This will ensure that there are clear protocols in place during an incident and that the messaging is same,” de Lille said.
The department has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the South African Police Services (SAPS) on collaboration towards the prevention, investigation and combating of crimes impacting on the tourism industry and the safety and well-being of tourists.
“The MoU Action Plan is being implemented through the Tourism Safety Technical Committee comprising of the Department of Tourism and SAPS. The MoU is currently undergoing revision to ensure that other initiatives being implemented with private sector on safety and security are considered and strengthened.
“The action plan incorporates both initiatives identified by the Department and by the South African Police Services and to be handled at a bilateral level,” the Minister said.
The Tourism Monitors Programme (TMP) is part of the broader government intervention that involves training, mentorship and deployment of unemployed youth in identified tourism attractions and sites.
“Government has invested R174 Million for the deployment of Tourism Monitors in this financial year. The key objectives of the programme include: enhancing tourism safety awareness at key tourism attractions and sites, upskilling of unemployed youth and reducing tourist vulnerabilities.”
The Minister said the department will deploy 2 300 Tourism Monitors nationally in entities managed by the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) Gardens, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Ezemvelo Nature Reserve, in the national parks managed by the South African National Parks (SANParks), and at airports managed by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA). – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 11/14/2023 - 15:12
255 views
Tourism, Google sign collaborative agreement
Tourism, Google sign collaborative agreement
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has signed an agreement with global tech giant, Google, aimed at promoting South Africa as a prime tourist destination and to provide training and support to the sector in digital training.
The Minister and Dr Alistair Mokoena, Country Director for Google South Africa, signed the agreement in Cape Town on Monday.
This partnership is in line with de Lille’s mission to grow tourism to its full potential, unlock the power of technology in the sector and increase arrivals to South Africa to support economic growth and job creation.
“In an era of digital transformation, collaboration between technology giants and government entities has the potential to reshape industries and enhance public services. As stated in the Tourism Sector Green Paper, there is a ‘lack of support mechanisms for the (tourism) sector, particularly SMMEs, to adapt to a digital future and other technological advancements.
“This visionary partnership between Google and the Ministry of Tourism, focuses on non-monetary exchanges to leverage each parties’ strengths for mutual benefits,” de Lille said.
Google intends to provide support to the Ministry to achieve its mandate through providing access to its initiatives and programmes in South Africa that are beneficial to the sector.
Mokoena said they were excited to partner with the Department of Tourism and to sign the letter of intent which aims to position South Africa as a great tourist destination.
“As a company that prides itself in organising the world’s information and making it universally accessible and useful, we look forward to rolling out various programmes in conjunction with the department, to fast track digital transformation in the sector, helping with digital skills and showcasing South African tourism through our Google Arts & Culture platform,” Mokoena said.
According to the department, the primary goal of this collaboration is to harness Google's technological expertise to support the Ministry of Tourism's efforts in promoting South Africa as a prime tourist destination.
The department said no monetary exchange will take place as a result of the agreement.
The areas of collaboration include:
Collaborating with the Ministry of Tourism, Google can provide insights into global travel trends. This information can guide the Department of Tourism and South African Tourism’s strategies for targeting specific markets and tailoring experiences to visitor expectations.
Specific studies to investigate the impact of digital platforms and online content are to be undertaken by Google and shared at no cost to the Ministry or Department.
Google offers skills training programmes including the Google Hustle Academy and master classes. These digital skills initiatives will be extended to offer training programs for individuals and businesses within the Ministry ecosystem.
This would equip local entrepreneurs with the digital skills needed to market their offerings online, potentially attracting a wider audience of travellers.
Tourism start-ups can be supported by Google programmes such as the Startup Accelerator and the Black Founders Fund.
The training will also include Google Ads training on the fundamentals of Google Ads. To date, more than 2 773 South African SMMES have previously benefited from these support programmes offered by Google.
Google can showcase South African tourism sites and unique cultural heritage to the world through the Google Arts and Culture Portal.
The two will also collaborate in creating a tourism thought leadership seminar through presenting commissioned research results on the opportunity and impact of online content and digital platforms in the tourism sector.
A co-hosted thought leadership seminar will focus on the digital opportunities for accelerating economic growth in the tourism sector.
The aims of the seminar will be to facilitate knowledge sharing and understanding of the digital opportunity in accelerating economic growth and upskilling governments and tourism promotion agencies with global best practices on how to use digital platforms.
“By tapping into Google's technology through digital skills training and the sharing of insights, South Africa's industry, notably SMMEs, can be present their offerings in innovative ways, engaging potential tourists, and inspiring them to explore the country,” Minister de Lille said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 11/13/2023 - 14:00
510 views
President to undertake State Visit to Qatar
President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday, 15 November 2023, undertake a State Visit to Qatar at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar.
The State Visit will form part of two days of engagement between the governments of South Africa and Qatar on 14 and 15 November.
The visit occurs in the context of three decades of diplomatic relations between the two countries who will celebrate the 30th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations on 11 May 2024. This visit will be President Ramaphosa's first visit to the State of Qatar as Head of State.
The programme will include meetings with His Highness Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, and high-level business engagements.
During their meeting, President Ramaphosa and His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani are expected to deliberate on various geopolitical issues that are currently impacting the world.
Both parties are committed to enhancing their economic ties and focusing on improving economic relations including trade, investment, and tourism.
In 2022, Qatar became South Africa's fifth-largest trading partner in the Middle East.
There is significant potential for further economic cooperation between the two countries. South Africa exported USD 206 million worth of trade to Qatar in 2022.
The bulk of the exports were in the manufacturing sector, accounting for about 56% of total exports. South Africa has witnessed a surge in its imports from Qatar between 2017 and 2022, primarily due to the import of petroleum oils.
South African imports from Qatar amounted to USD 252 million in 2022.
The President will be joined by a high-level business delegation and is expected to engage the Qatari business community to explore opportunities for cooperation in areas such as the creative industries, energy, mining, agro-processing, retail, healthcare, tourism, and shipbuilding.
South Africa is a significant investor in Qatar, especially in the petrochemical-related sector, with a total investment of approximately USD 8.7 billion.
Sasol has a 49% shareholding with Qatar Petroleum, and established ORYX GTL, the world's first commercial-scale gas-to-liquids plant. Sasol's GTL technology is used in ORYX GTL to convert natural gas into liquid fuel and chemical products.
The governments of South Africa and Qatar share deep concern regarding the conflict, notably the unfolding human catastrophe in Palestine, violations of international human rights and international humanitarian law, the large-scale loss of life and the ongoing hostilities, especially in Gaza.
The leaders will discuss respective efforts to ensure that the conflict does not escalate to other parts of the region and that a peaceful resolution is found.
South Africa also welcomes Qatar's mediation efforts in this crisis.
The President will be accompanied by the Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation; Trade, Industry and Competition; Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development; Mineral Resources and Energy; Defence, Basic Education and the Minister in the Presidency.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.
Job creation programme hits 25-year milestone
MEDIA INVITE – 13 November 2023 RE: JOB CREATION PROGRAMME CELEBRATES 25 YEARS Date: Wednesday, 15 November 2023, Time: 09h30 to 13h00 Venue: Coastlands Umhlanga Hotel & Convention Centre, Umhlanga Ridge Please join Productivity SA in partnership with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) to commemorate the 25th anniversary of its flagship …
Tourism partners with Google SA
Tourism partners with Google SA
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille will on Monday sign an agreement with Google, which will see the Ministry of Tourism and the digital platform collaborate on several areas of work.
This is in line with the department’s work of enhancing the use of technology to market South Africa’s tourism offering.
De Lille will sign the agreement with Dr Alistair Mokoena, the Country Director for Google South Africa.
In an era of digital transformation, collaboration between technology giants and government entities has the potential to reshape industries and enhance public services. According to the Department of Tourism, the agreement will map the way to a visionary partnership between Google and the Ministry of Tourism, focusing on non-monetary exchanges to leverage each other's strengths for mutual benefit.
“The primary goal of the partnership is to harness Google's technological expertise to support the Ministry of Tourism's efforts in promoting South Africa as a prime tourist destination. The partnership aims to facilitate knowledge sharing, skills development, and the use of digital tools to enhance tourism experiences and sustainability,” the department said in a statement.
The areas of collaboration include digital skills training, culture and heritage sites promotion, and thought leadership.
“By tapping into Google's technology through digital skills training and the sharing of insights, South Africa's industry, notably SMMEs, can present their offerings in innovative ways, engaging potential tourists and inspiring them to explore the country.
“The collaboration is in line with the goal of increasing international arrivals and growing domestic trips in South Africa. This in turn will help tourism businesses grow, help the country’s economic growth, and support job creation efforts,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 11/12/2023 - 10:56
572 views
White Paper set to overhaul migration system, says Motsoaledi
White Paper set to overhaul migration system, says Motsoaledi
Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi says the recently published White Paper On Citizenship, Immigration and Refugee Protection contains radical proposals that are aimed at overhauling the migration system in South Africa.
Cabinet approved the White Paper on Wednesday, 1 November 2023 for public comment. It was published in the Government Gazette No. 49661 on 10 November 2023, after what Motsoaledi described as a “painstaking exercise of drafting”.
The draft policy aims to provide a framework to guide the granting of residency and citizenship to foreign nationals, as well as the protection of refugees and asylum seekers in South Africa, cognisant of the Republic’s national security interests and in compliance with international agreements and protocols on migration that South Africa is party to.
“There have been consistent loud voices calling for effective policy measures and legislative interventions dealing with migration in South Africa.
“South Africa has different pieces of legislation dealing with citizenship, immigration and refugee protection, namely the Citizenship Act, Immigration Act and Refugees Act, as amended.
“In practice, these pieces of legislation are not in harmony with each other. Piecemeal amendments were made without any policy framework whatsoever,” Motsoaledi said at a briefing in Pretoria on Sunday.
Key proposals
Motsoaledi said one of the chief proposals in the White Paper is that the government of the Republic of South Africa must review and/or withdraw from the 1951 United Nations Refugees Convention (“1951 Convention”) and the 1967 Protocol relating to the Status of Refugees (“1967 Protocol”), with a view to accede to them with reservations like other countries.
“The refugee protection and immigration legislation must provide for reservations and exceptions, as contained in the 1951 Convention and the 1969 OAU [Organisation of African Unity -- now AU] Convention, particularly in that South Africa does not have the resources to grant the socio-economic rights envisaged in the 1951 Convention,” the Minister said.
He explained that the current citizenship legislation has its roots in the 1949 Citizenship Act (“1949 Act”) and other relevant successive laws governing citizenship.
He said the 1949 Act and other relevant laws were not only discriminatory on the basis of race and sex but the “natives” (black people) were totally excluded from the South African citizenship regime.
“The South African Citizenship Act provides for three main forms of citizenship, namely, citizenship by birth, citizenship by descent and citizenship by naturalisation,” Motsoaledi said.
The Minister said the Citizenship Act and Births and Deaths Registration Act must be repealed in their entirely and be included in the single legislation dealing with citizenship, immigration and refugee protection.
“This will remove contradictions and loopholes in the paths towards citizenship, as is now the case with the three pieces of legislation. The criteria for granting any form of citizenship must be strictly in accordance with the law.
“A proper register should be kept for all persons granted citizenship by naturalisation by the Minister. The register must be tabled every year in Parliament by the Minister,” Motsoaledi said.
Immigration
The Minister said South Africa is a great place to live in and many people in the world aspire to live, work or to be citizens of South Africa.
“[As a] result, many foreign nationals come to South Africa and stay in the country illegally. No one can account for all undocumented migrants. The Department of Home Affairs has no idea as to how many illegal immigrants are in South Africa.
“However, Immigration Services deports between 15 000 - 20 000 illegal foreigners every year at a huge cost. This number is on the increase.
“The establishment of the Border Management Authority (BMA) should significantly reduce the risk of foreigners entering the country illegally,” the Minister said.
Motsoaledi said the Border Management Authority Act must be reviewed to align it with Immigration and Citizenship new policy framework.
“The policy framework must provide for the establishment of the Advisory Board, which comprises representatives of the Departments of Trade, Industry and Competition, Labour and Employment, Tourism, South African Police Service, South African Revenue Service, Education, International Relations & Cooperation, Defence & Military Veterans and Director-General of the DHA [Department of Home Affairs].
“The Board must also comprise representatives of organised labour, including four individuals on the grounds of expertise in administration, regulatory matters or immigration law, control, adjudication and enforcement, appointed by the Minister.
“Policy and legislative interventions are required to tighten the procedures and strengthening the monitoring capacity by introducing integrated IT systems capable of flagging fraudulent activities in the issuing of visas, identity documents, marriage certificates and passports.
“This includes giving wide statutory powers to the existing Anti-Corruption Unit within the DHA,” the Minister said.
Motsoaledi said the new policy must provide that members of the Anti-Corruption Unit should be seconded from the South African Police Service (SAPS).
“The rationale being that members of the SAPS enjoy wide statutory powers, including search and arrest without a warrant,” the Minister said.
New legislation, Motsoaledi said, must be introduced to strengthen the powers of immigration officers and Inspectorate, and make continuing training compulsory. The majority of members of the Inspectorate must have legal qualifications and policing experience. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 11/12/2023 - 13:02
92 views
KZN positions to become a technological hub
KZN positions to become a technological hub
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government is accelerating efforts to roll out broadband across the province in order to ensure universal connectivity, and position the province as a technological hub.
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Speaking at the opening of the KwaZulu-Natal Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Summit, currently underway at the Durban Exhibition Centre, Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube said as part of KwaZulu-Natal Digital Transformation Strategy, the province aims to deliver a citizen-centric plan which guides the leap to a digitally transformed society.Â
âOur strategy is awake to the reality that the province is currently only 27% connected and we have identified the need to accelerate the connectivity of the entire province. Among others, our Digital Transformation Strategy will aid government-to-government interaction across spheres, government-to-citizen interaction, and government-to-business interaction,â Dube-Ncube said.
Held from 09-10 November 2023, the summit brings together digital experts, including stakeholders and representatives from the public and private sectors to discuss and demonstrate the role of technology in improving operations, processes and service delivery for the benefit of the communities in KwaZulu-Natal.
The summit, which is hosted jointly with Vodacom Business and provincial government, is a unique platform for ICT experts, private sector and government leaders to engage and explore cutting-edge technology solutions designed to transform the business landscape.
Themed âMoving KZN Towards a Smart Provinceâ, the summit focuses on turning KwaZulu-Natal into a smart and technology connected province, which leaves no one behind.
Dube-Ncube highlighted that the province is hard at work, and currently rolling out Wi-Fi hotspots and Digi-centres in townships and rural centres, including libraries, schools, health youth zones, and community service centres.Â
Work done by the Office of the Premier includes the roll-out of a series of 4IR activations to install Wi-Fi hotspots that will enable schools and citizens to access internet as well as the training of 3 875 youth in four activated districts covering 16 areas.Â
âDigital hubs were installed at the schools to enable the learners to have access to equipment [and] teachers were also trained in data science to include in their schoolâs curriculum, to ensure the learners will be trained on areas of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics.
âAll 164 provincial libraries have Wi-Fi connectivity and all hospitals and clinics are connected,â Dube-Ncube said.Â
The Premier emphasised the importance of building broadband infrastructure together with the private sector to improve the status of connectivity in the province.
âPartnerships between private and public sector are central and mutually beneficial. We welcome and appreciate the role that the private sector is playing in supporting our vision of positioning KwaZulu-Natal as a Smart Province,â Dube-Ncube said.
Vodacom Business has been working with the government on several connectivity solutions to help the province achieve its universal connectivity targets.
Meanwhile, the Department of Transport is in discussions with the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) to investigate the implementation of an online registration system, which will be piloted in the uMgungundlovu and eThekwini Districts.
The provincial Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) has to date, spent almost R8.6 million in rolling out digital centres across the province. â SAnews.gov.za
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GabiK
Fri, 11/10/2023 - 10:54
100 views
SCTIE celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Southern Explorer route map
This year marks an important milestone for the KZN South Coastâs tourism sector with the popular route map, the Southern Explorer, celebrating its 25th edition. âWeâd like to extend our congratulations to the Southern Explorer team on this impressive milestone and we are looking forward to further promoting the KZN South Coastâs tourism offerings together,â …
Cabinet affirms value of AGOA
Cabinet affirms value of AGOA
Cabinet has welcomed the confirmation by both the United States Administration and Congress of the intention to extend AGOA, which brings certainty to the investment community in eligible countries.
“Cabinet has always asserted that the African Growth and Opportunity Act [AGOA] provides an opportunity for the United States of America to strengthen its economic relationship with Africa and thus it must be extended for a meaningful period, enhanced to make it impactful and attractive,” said Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni on Monday.
The 20th AGOA Forum was hosted in Johannesburg last week and it concluded on Saturday.
The forum, held from 2 - 4 November 2023, brought together participants from 32 Africa countries from government, business, civil society and organised labour, for the first time, including representatives of the United States government.
BRICS Tourism Ministers’ Meeting
Cabinet has also welcomed the successful conclusion of the 2023 BRICS Tourism Ministers’ Meeting held in Cape Town, which committed member nations to deeper cooperation and to promote intra-BRICS tourism, develop routes for better tourism mobility and connectivity among the member countries.
Ntshavheni said this will further strengthen South Africa’s tourism sector, which is already showing signs of recovery.
“For the first eight months of 2023, the country saw 5.5 million arrivals, which represented a 63.4% increase from the same period in 2022,” the Minister said.
Held in Cape Town on 24 October 2023, the BRICS Tourism Ministers’ Meeting provided an opportunity for exchange of information and experiences, as well as deepening cooperation among BRICS members to reach consensus on key policy priorities for a balanced tourism recovery.
To ensure continuity and to leverage on the combined strength of BRICS member States, South Africa’s theme for chairing the meeting was: “Sustainable and inclusive tourism recovery”, which aligns to the overall theme of SA’s chairship. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/06/2023 - 14:21
486 views
KZN entrepreneurs to showcase wares at Intra–African Trade Objective
KZN entrepreneurs to showcase wares at Intra–African Trade Fair
KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, has commended entrepreneurs based in the province that have been selected to showcase their products and services at the 2023 Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) in Cairo, Egypt.
IATF is organised by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), in collaboration with the African Union Commission and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat.
The Intra-African Trade Fair is a trade show that provides a platform for sharing trade, investment and market information and enabling buyers and sellers, investors and countries to meet, discuss and conclude business deals.
The IATF will take place from 09 to 15 November 2023 will provide a unique and valuable platform for businesses to access an integrated African market of over 1.3 billion people with a GDP of over US$3.5 trillion created under the AfCFTA.
Speaking at a send-off ceremony held at Trade and Investment KZN (TIKZN) in Durban, Duma said the 21 entrepreneurs from the province were subjected to a gruelling selection process.
“By and large, the selection process was designed to ensure that we market our products and services from all corners of our province – especially the townships and rural areas. This is in line with our “Buy KZN Product” Campaign. We are happy that today our entrepreneurs gathered at Investment House for a well deserving send-off.”
He noted that through TIKZN which is an agency of government , the department has for a long-time, hosted International Expo Week, as part of creating a demand for local products produced by the province’s entrepreneurs.
“As the previous host of the 2021 IATF Trade Show 2021, we believe that this year’s event will put our entrepreneurs on the pedestal and augment the “Buy KZN Product” Campaign. Critically, we are encouraged by an integrated approach involving the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA).
“Collectively, we have made it possible to deploy resources to cover logistics and other necessary expenses for our entrepreneurs. This is in addition to the enduring partnership between TIKZN and Transnet Port Terminal. This partnership has helped many entrepreneurs under the export capacity-building programme,” Duma said.
The MEC added that the department is confident that as more entrepreneurs export their products, “we will see a significant increase in foreign exchange earnings.”
“We are saying to our entrepreneurs – the “Sky is not the Limit”. Go there - establish contact with prospective distributors and buyers - ascertain the market demand and trends and promote the Zulu Kingdom,” Duma said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 14:06
534 views
Runners arrive out in their numbers for 2023 Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon
Runners braved the cold weather, having just celebrated the Springboks World Cup win, to compete in the 2023 Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon in Amanzimtoti on Sunday. “Congratulations to this year’s race competitors for another successful Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon,” commented Romy Wenzel of Sapphire Coast Tourism. “We enjoyed an impressive number …
Tourism opens request for proposals for Tourism Equity Fund (TEF)
Request for proposals for the Tourism Equity Fund opens.
The Department of Tourism together with the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (sefa), an agency within the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) is pleased to announce the opening of the application process for the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF) starting from Monday 6 November 2023.
Following the Cabinet's approval in September 2023 for the revised TEF to be implemented, we are delighted to announce that the Request for Proposals for funding from the TEF is now open to businesses.
The R1.2 billion TEF aims to increase growth, and transformation and stimulate more inclusive participation in the tourism sector in line with the targets of the Tourism B-BBEE Sector Codes. The TEF is intended to address the funding challenges faced by Qualifying Small Enterprises and Emerging Micro Enterprises in the tourism sector.
The TEF will be implemented by:
- Assessing and scoring applications against jobs to be sustained and/or jobs to be created, location and geographic spread, and targeted groups (youth, women, and people with disabilities).
- Department of Tourism and sefa in partnership with banking and/or financial institutions in the Republic of South Africa, which includes, amongst others, banks and developmental finance institutions that will offer affordable and tailor-made financial solutions, in an attempt to close funding gaps in the market, through the provision of a blended finance solution.
- Disbursing a total of 80% of the TEF funds to existing Small Medium and Micro Enterprises in the market to enable these businesses to grow. The remaining allocation of 20% of the funds will be disbursed to new businesses.
sefa will implement, execute, and manage the Fund through a Fund Management Agreement signed with the Department of Tourism. The Department will support and monitor the implementation of the TEF on a monthly basis.
The TEF places significant emphasis on providing support to tourism enterprises that meet the qualifying criteria, including a minimum of 30% Black ownership either before or after the financial support. The TEF is exclusively dedicated to investing in various sub-sectors within the tourism industry as prescribed in the Tourism B-BBEE Sector Codes.
The Department of Tourism is committed to enhancing transformation in the tourism sector, and the TEF aims to contribute towards achieving transformation goals in this important sector of our economy.
“The funding structure comprises grant funding, and debt financing, to meet the distinct needs of tourism enterprises that are either seeking equity acquisition, investment in new developments, or expansion of their existing businesses,” Minister de Lille said.
The TEF is backed by formidable public-private partnerships, which support the participation of private, commercial, and non-commercial banks, and various developmental funding institutions.
“The collaboration between public and private entities serves as a notable example of successful cooperation in advancing a more inclusive and prosperous tourism sector,” Minister de Lille added.
Minister de Lille concluded: “As stated before. the Department of Tourism remains committed to advancing the transformation agenda through creating equitable opportunities to realise an inclusive and revived tourism economy.”
With consideration of Regulation Gazette No 11067, Volume 697, No 49018 published on 25 July 2023, withdrawing Regulation Gazette No 11241, Volume 668 of 19 February 2021. No 44172, all applicants (including previous applicants) are encouraged to submit new applications that will align with the new qualifying criteria of TEF.
For more information on the Tourism Equity Fund and the application process, please visit the Department of Tourism's website: https://apo-opa.info/3QIzYSG
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Small Business Development, Republic of South Africa.
Tourism announces opening of application process for TEF
Tourism announces opening of application process for TEF
The Department of Tourism, together with the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa) - an agency within the Department of Small Business Development, has announced the opening of the application process for the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF) on Monday, 06 November 2023.
“Following Cabinet’s approval in September 2023 for the revised TEF to be implemented, we are delighted to announce that the Request for Proposals for funding from the TEF is now open to businesses,” the Department of Tourism said in a statement.
The R1.2 billion TEF aims to increase growth and transformation, and stimulate more inclusive participation in the tourism sector in line with the targets of the Tourism B-BBEE Sector Codes.
The TEF is intended to address the funding challenges faced by Qualifying Small Enterprises and Emerging Micro Enterprises in the tourism sector.
The TEF will be implemented by:
- Assessing and scoring applications against jobs to be sustained and/or jobs to be created, location and geographic spread, and targeted groups (youth, women, and people with disabilities).
- Department of Tourism and Sefa in partnership with banking and/or financial institutions in the Republic of South Africa, which includes, amongst others, banks and developmental finance institutions that will offer affordable and tailor-made financial solutions, in an attempt to close funding gaps in the market, through the provision of a blended finance solution.
- Disbursing a total of 80% of the TEF funds to existing Small Medium and Micro Enterprises in the market to enable these businesses to grow. The remaining allocation of 20% of the funds will be disbursed to new businesses.
“Sefa will implement, execute and manage the Fund through a Fund Management Agreement signed with the Department of Tourism. The Department will support and monitor the implementation of the TEF on a monthly basis,” the department said.
The TEF places significant emphasis on providing support to tourism enterprises that meet the qualifying criteria, including a minimum of 30% Black ownership either before or after the financial support.
The TEF is exclusively dedicated to investing in various sub-sectors within the tourism industry as prescribed in the Tourism B-BBEE Sector Codes.
The department said it is committed to enhancing transformation in the tourism sector and the TEF aims to contribute towards achieving transformation goals in this important sector of the economy.
“The funding structure comprises grant funding, and debt financing, to meet the distinct needs of tourism enterprises that are either seeking equity acquisition, investment in new developments, or expansion of their existing businesses,” Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said.
The TEF is backed by public-private partnerships which support the participation of private, commercial, and non-commercial banks, and various developmental funding institutions.
“The collaboration between public and private entities serves as a notable example of successful cooperation in advancing a more inclusive and prosperous tourism sector.
“The Department of Tourism remains committed to advancing the transformation agenda through creating equitable opportunities to realise an inclusive and revived tourism economy,” de Lille said.
With consideration of Regulation Gazette No 11067, Volume 697, No 49018 published on 25 July 2023, withdrawing Regulation Gazette No 11241, Volume 668 of 19 February 2021. No 44172, all applicants (including previous applicants) are encouraged to submit new applications that will align with the new qualifying criteria of TEF.
For more information on the Tourism Equity Fund and the application process visit: https://www.tourism.gov.za/CurrentProjects/Tourism_Equity_Fund/Pages/Tourism_Equity_Fund.aspx - SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 11/02/2023 - 11:55
45 views
Propelling South Africa’s economy forward, one tourist at a time
01 NOVEMBER, JOHANNESBURG: South Africa’s tourism industry has not just rebounded from the pandemic, it has found itself in a position to pursue aggressive growth. In the first quarter of 2023, the country welcomed over 2 million visitors. Furthermore, over the next decade, this sector is projected to generate an impressive 800,000 jobs and inject …
Rural Tourism Investment Opportunities on the Rise on KZN South Coast
The drive to develop rural tourism assets is a global move, as inclusive tourism economies are beneficial for both tourists and hosts. Through rural tourism, outlying communities are included in mainstream economies, tourists are afforded more authentic, nature-based experiences, and conservation becomes a central tenet. On the KZN South Coast, this welcome trend has unearthed …
Permits to change the lives of farmers
Permits to change the lives of farmers
By Gabi Khumalo
A group of farmers have dispelled the myth that government initiatives seldom have an impact on the lives of ordinary, real people.
Recently, 664 hemp and cannabis farmers who are on the KwaZulu-Natal Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) database, received permits which grants them authorisation to cultivate, store and transport content with a Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) of not more than 0.2%.
THC is the major psychoactive component and one of the 113 cannabinoids recognised in cannabis.
What does the handing over of the permits mean you ask? It means that the permits, handed over at a provincial Cannabis Expo and Conference, held at Okhahlamba Sports Complex in Bergville, will enable the farmers to have access to cutting edge technology through the Analytical Lab based at Cedara in uMgungundlovu District Municipality, near Pietermaritzburg.
To grow the local sector, the MECs of the provincial Departments of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) and Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) invited captains of industry, including experts, academics, Amakhosi and local growers to a two-day expo and conference to share ideas that will grow the sector to its full potential.
Held under the theme: “One love, one heart,” the event provided a platform for local cannabis and hemp farmers, and others with an interest in the sector to engage with business and academia.
Among the issues under discussion were that of regulations, registration, production, agro processing and exports.
Local business who will be providing services to permit recipients were also granted R300 000 each. Services include processing, erecting tunnels and providing lab equipment, packaging, testing, and finding a market for farmers.
Masterplan
The first citizen of the province, Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube said the expo and conference will be etched in the minds of the people, as the starting point of a “new era for the cannabis sector in the province.”
Dube-Ncube noted that many milestones had been achieved through the KZN Cannabis Masterplan.
“Through DARD we have set aside an amount of R47 million for cannabis research. We have allocated R10 million to assist farmers in cannabis production and hemp permit application.
“We have facilitated an investment commitment of R120 million and we have participated in the Cannabis and Hemp Phakisa Action Lab in order to secure much-needed policy coherence and to ensure closer collaboration amongst government entities," she explained.
This as pilot projects targeting commercial growers are ongoing, and the province has supported several investment leads, which were in the process of rolling out district-based capacity building programmes under the umbrella of the proposed KZN Cannabis Association.
Reaping the rewards
EDTEA MEC Siboniso Duma said, the expo had been a success and that the work by both EDTEA and DARD was just beginning.
“We want our farmers to be the champions of the cannabis sector and we want them to be able to speak for themselves. We are giving them an assignment to come closer to us because what we have started together, will change people’s lives,” Duma said.
Meanwhile, DARD MEC Super Zuma said the province has worked steadfastly and the time to unlock the province’s prosperity through the hemp and cannabis sector, had now arrived.
“We have ensured a smooth process for our hemp permit holders and we covered all their costs. We are winning the fight to alleviate poverty and unemployment and we are extremely proud of the ongoing collaborative work that continues behind the scenes, and I must say all our collaborative efforts have yielded fruit,” Zuma said.
Permit recipient from the Umzinyathi District Municipality, Sphelele Shezi, said this was the beginning of great things for her small business of hair products, noting that the success of the products relies on hemp seed oil.
“I applied for my permit in July because I want to start extracting oil to use in our hairspray. We also manufacture shea butter which will soon be hemp infused.
“This permit will allow my business to grow and I have a vision of owning a manufacturing plant which will open up job opportunities,” Shezi said.
The owner of Old Grey Distillery--which manufactures cannabis infused beverages in Johannesburg-- Derek Collard, said his business has received great exposure at the expo.
“The expo has been superb. We started our business when cannabis became legal and we started experimenting with different cannabis infused gin flavours. We have met incredible contacts that we will be supplying. There are business opportunities as well as local growers that we could potentially partner with,” Collard said.
Nonhlanhla Qhoboshiyane, a hemp and cannabis farmer from Durban, who was introduced to the plants after falling ill, said she was grateful for the opportunity to be part of the informative expo.
“My interest started in 2016 when my husband and I were diagnosed with cancer. We used hemp oil and we would make cannabis leaf tea to help with the pain.
“These plants are from the Lord, created to bring about economic recovery in South Africa, there should be no stigma attached to them. The rural economy will grow because of hemp and cannabis,” she said.
Investment
In the 2023 State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Cyril Ramaphosa reiterated government’s commitment made in 2022 to unlock investment in the hemp and cannabis sector.
During the Phakisa Action Lab gathering held in June 2023, the President said the cannabis and hemp sector is one of 14 priority sectors that have been defined in government’s Country Investment Strategy as holding significant potential to secure investment, job creation and support for sustainable rural livelihoods, in recognition of people’s rights.
“I am confident that the collaborative commitment to work together which characterises our society, will find expression in the Hemp and Cannabis Phakisa, leading to immediate short term regulatory reform, the adoption of a set of foundational policy principles to achieve longer term legislative reform and a detailed plan to achieve inclusive growth and investment,” the President said at the time.
Participants at the Action Lab collectively agreed on the regulatory reforms required to better enable the development of the hemp and cannabis sector.
The reforms will unlock the potential of cannabis in African traditional medicine; pharmaceutical and complementary medicines; and multiple industrial applications.
The regulatory reforms agreed to include reviewing the schedules to the Medicines Act to further enable cannabis grown for non-medicinal uses, including industrial purposes.
The Phakisa Action Lab further resolved to explore mechanisms to fast-track the removal of cannabis from the Drugs Act.
This will be a historic achievement through which the cultivation of non-medicinal cannabis will be legal under the terms and conditions of the Plant Improvement Act, which falls under DALRRD.
The development of the hemp and cannabis industry has so far seen the issuing of 83 cannabis licences, four manufacturing licences and 30 research permits by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) since 2022. The authority is an entity of the Department of Health
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development has also issued 371 hemp permits, which has enabled significant investment, employment creation, the application of technology, intellectual property development and exports to highly competitive global markets.
And that is no smoke and mirrors story. - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 10/31/2023 - 11:43
539 views
Western Cape Government and Hisense partner for novel Tevolution Museum
On Monday, 30 October 2023, the Western Cape Government signed a Letter of Intent with Hisense South Africa for the establishment of a Tevolution Museum in Cape Town.
This venture stems from the agreement with the Shandong province, which is now in its 25th year. The Director-General for the Department of the Premier, Harry Malila, opened today's engagement by thanking China and the Shandong province for the continued relationship and emphasized the renewed focus on the economy, tourism and growth going forward. Hisense already has a footprint in the Atlantis area and will now build on this partnership through the establishment of this museum, working closely with the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS), which is responsible for museums in the province.
The envisioned museum will tell the story of household appliances in South Africa but will also aim at providing opportunities for youth to go into the field of technology. The museum will incorporate an art studio which will provide opportunities for youth to grow their skills in technology, animation and other related fields such as coding. It will also use technology to bring innovative exhibitions to visitors for them to experience Cape Town's rich and diverse cultural heritage. DCAS will identify potential sites where the museum will be hosted.
Head of Department for Cultural Affairs and Sport, Guy Redman, emphasized the important role that museums play in bringing hope to people. “The museum we are creating is a museum of the future. We want to inspire South Africans to imagine alternate futures for themselves and believe in their abilities to create that desired future. We want them to appreciate what could be, and give them the tools to make it happen.” he said.
Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Anroux Marais, thanked the delegation for the ongoing partnership between the two governments: “It is very important that we have this ongoing relationship and that we continue to strengthen it as it continues to bring new economic opportunities to our youth. We are also looking forward to hosting young people from Shandong later this year for sailing events.” she said.
The Western Cape Government looks forward to this exciting new project, which will not only bring in economic growth through tourism but will also support young people in pursuing new career opportunities.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government.
Saudi Arabia opens e-Visa scheme to South Africans
Saudi Arabia opens e-Visa system to South Africans
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has commended the opening of the Saudi Arabia e-Visa system to South Africans.
This makes it easy for tourists from South Africa to apply for an e-visa for their travels to Saudi Arabia.
This follows de Lille’s recent official visit to Saudi Arabia to strengthen tourism relations with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced recently that it was expanding its visitor e-Visa programme to travellers from eight more countries, bringing the total to 57.
“I am extremely pleased with this development as South Africa also became the first African country to be added to the list. This will certainly bring immense benefits for leisure and Umrah travellers and for our efforts to grow tourism between South Africa and Saudi Arabia,” de Lille said.
The multi-entry eVisa is valid for one year and allows travellers to visit the Kingdom for up to 90 days at a time. It costs 535 Saudi riyals, which includes medical insurance.
The tourist visa allows travellers to take part in tourism-related activities such as events, family and relative visits, leisure, and Umrah (excluding Hajj) and excludes other activities such as studying.
In terms of the South African visa system, travellers from Saudi Arabia are part of the visa exempt countries and do not require a visa to travel to South Africa for a period of up to 90 days.
De Lille said Saudi Arabia is fast becoming an attractive tourist destination and is a key partner in department’s efforts to grow tourism between South Africa and the rest of the world.
The Department of Tourism has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Department which outlines their joint objectives to grow tourism between the two countries.
The Minister recently undertook an official visit to Saudi Arabia to attend the International World Tourism Day conference where various engagements took place to strengthen tourism relations and cooperation with Saudi Arabian stakeholders.
At the conference, the Minister met with a range of Saudi Arabian stakeholders, including the Air Connectivity Programme team within the Ministry of Tourism, as well as the Saudi Tourism Authority.
Discussions covered actions needed to improve air connectivity between Saudi Arabia and South Africa and a joint marketing strategy to promote both destinations to travellers in both countries.
Saudi Arabian Airlines has further announced the recommencement of a direct flight between Jeddah and Johannesburg starting on 1 December 2023.
“During our engagements, we shared research with the Saudi Air Connectivity Team to motivate for a direct flight between Jeddah and Cape Town. The e-Visa development is significant for South Africa as many Muslim citizens travel for religious purposes. Along with the direct flights, this will ease travel for many tourists but especially for religious tourism and pilgrimages.
“Through the fast and easy-to-use online portal, South Africans can apply for an e-Visa and discover the warm hospitality of Saudi people the rich heritage, vibrant culture, and diverse and breath-taking landscapes; from the mountains of Abha to the beaches of the Red Sea to the shifting sands of the Empty Quarter,” the Minister said.
De Lille added that South Africa will continue working with its counterparts in Saudi Arabia, through the Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al Khateeb to look at new and innovative ways to grow tourism between the two countries, as “this key sector is an important part of our countries’ economies and a key job creator”. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 10/29/2023 - 12:21
254 views
Minister of Education Unveils Edu Invest initiative
Public-Private Partnership initiative aims to attract investment into education and establish the Western Cape as an innovation powerhouse.
- Edu Invest: A public-private partnership initiative to attract investment and fuel education innovation in the Western Cape.
- Emphasis on attracting investments into low-cost new private schools to alleviate overcrowding and improve access to quality education.
- The initiative highlights the commitment of both public and private sectors to reshape the educational landscape, promote collaboration, and create a brighter future for the Western Cape.
The Western Cape Education Department, in collaboration with Wesgro, the official agency responsible for promoting tourism, trade, and investment in the region, has launched a ground-breaking initiative, Edu Invest. This public-private collaboration seeks to not only drive investment into the education sector but also ignite innovation throughout the region.
By uniting a diverse spectrum of stakeholders, Edu Invest jumpstarts investments in high-quality education, fosters collaboration, and fuels innovation.
Edu Invest will position the Western Cape as the premier education and innovation hub on the continent, making it the go-to choice for investments in the education sector. It represents a pivotal moment driven by a dual mission. First and foremost, it offers a gateway to investment opportunities in the education sector, an arena poised for remarkable transformation and substantial growth. Simultaneously, it serves as a unifying platform, nurturing collaboration among stakeholders with the shared goal of cultivating long-term public-private partnerships. This convergence of interests and investments has strategic significance, shaping the future of education in the Western Cape and generating a robust skills pipeline.
The initiative focuses on attracting investments in new private schools, including those that serve learners in poor communities, to create more classrooms and alleviate overcrowding in schools. This step is crucial for improving access to quality education and enhancing overall educational outcomes.
Currently, the Western Cape has a total of 1,754 schools out of which 1,449 are public schools. We have a much lower proportion of independent schools than provinces like Gauteng. Despite an additional 18 000 learners joining our province's education system each year, we do not have enough independent schools, and particularly low-fee independent schools, complementing our public school offering.
It's becoming increasingly urgent to establish new schools in the Western Cape, which is known for its dedication to retaining students and delivering high-quality education.
The learner-to-teacher ratio in schools remains persistently high, especially for government-funded teachers across all nine provinces. This essentially means that teachers paid by the government are dealing with an overwhelming number of students in their classrooms. The availability of new school places in independent schools would help to address overcrowding in public schools.
David Maynier, Western Cape Minister of Education, emphasised that the future of SA hinges on a strong education system that works hand in hand with the private sector and integrates smart solutions to address learning setbacks.
"We are not just paying lip service to change in the Western Cape. We are actively collaborating with businesses to improve teaching and learning outcomes and expand access to education in our province. We are wholeheartedly embracing innovative teaching and learning methods," Maynier stated.
He underlined the pressing demand for additional classrooms and a strengthened education sector, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic, which resulted in substantial learning losses.
“We need to all work together to build a world-class education system. Edu Invest promises to be a game-changer, promoting education innovation, collaboration, and driving investments in the Western Cape's education sector. This initiative demonstrates the commitment of both public and private sectors to reshape the educational landscape and create a brighter future for the region,” Maynier said.
Wrenelle Stander, CEO of Wesgro, underscored the critical role of education innovation to drive competitiveness.
"Edu Invest reflects Wesgro's commitment to advancing the business of education. Education is the cornerstone of a thriving economy, essential for both economic prosperity and social well-being," she emphasised. Private sector investments, Stander stated, will enhance academic achievements and overall competitiveness.
Stander highlighted the need for pioneering methods, state-of-the-art technology, contemporary curricula, indispensable teacher training, and a complete overhaul of our perspective on education.
She added: "We are amidst global competition, racing to secure new markets, investments, skills, and technology. To not only survive but flourish on the global stage, we must craft a fresh growth narrative with education as its linchpin. For businesses, it's not just a strategic move; it's an investment in the young talents who will shape our economic future.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Western Cape Education Department, South Africa.