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Introduction Padel is swiftly becoming a favourite sport worldwide, thanks to its engaging play and sociable nature. For beginners, the journey starts with selecting the right equipment, particularly the racket, which is crucial for both learning and enjoyment. This blog post will guide newcomers through the essentials of choosing a beginner-friendly padel racket, helping them …
In celebration of the great strides women have made in business, Proudly South African and Southern Sun have joined forces to recognise the sustainability of women’s leadership amongst thought leaders, ceiling breakers, and business leaders in the country. The Women’s Month celebration was hosted at 54 on Bath on Friday, 30 August 2024. Leanne Manas …
Downsizing and retirement often go together, and while some might choose a smaller home or maisonette, apartments in secure estates are becoming a popular option for active seniors. This is particularly true for those who want to live on the coast while also enjoying the freedom to travel when they want. “Previously, apartment living in …
The low-level flypast marks three milestones for Emirates (https://www.Emirates.com/) and South Africa; The flying display celebrates the return of the second daily A380 service on the Dubai-Johannesburg route from 1 September.
Emirates, the world's largest international airline, takes to the skies to celebrate its longstanding and ongoing commitment to South Africa, with the country's first ever A380 flypast. Running up the score, the remarkable low-level aerial showcase also marks Emirates' first ever flypast in Africa and the first international airline to execute such a feat in South Africa.
Honouring its shared love for rugby with over 62,000 enthusiastic spectators, Emirates flew the world's largest commercial passenger aircraft over Emirates Airline Park, just before kick-off of the much-anticipated Springboks vs All Blacks test match. Flying at an altitude of just 500 feet above the ground, the iconic Emirates double-decker aircraft saluted rugby and aviation fans, in its latest signature livery.
The Emirates A380 took off from O.R. Tambo International Airport at 16:00, travelling at a speed of 140 kts, reaching the stadium at 16:58, perfectly timed to follow South Africa and New Zealand's national anthems. The impressive aerial feat follows months of thorough and cross-functional planning between stakeholders including multiple teams at Emirates, South African Civil Aviation Authority, Airports Company South Africa, Emirates pilots, Flight Operation Managers and Air Traffic Controllers working together with the Emirates Lions team. The teams worked together across every element of the aerial display, taking into account air traffic patterns at different times of the day with different weather and wind conditions.
UAE National Captain Mubarak Al Mheiri, A380 Deputy Chief Pilot commanded the flight, joined by Captain Khalid Binsultan and Captain Abdalla Al Hammadi, both Technical Pilots for the Airbus A380 and Captain Richard Fiess, A380 Captain. Captain Mubarak has flown with Emirates for 19 years and has completed over 7,200 hours in the cockpit of the iconic A380. He has commanded similar flypasts for Emirates, including UAE National Day celebrations (http://apo-opa.co/3yXQLen) for the past four years and headlining the commercial aircraft flypast formation at the 2023 Dubai Air Show (http://apo-opa.co/3Xrar3A). He also participated in the iconic flight promoting Expo 2020 (http://apo-opa.co/3TdcRAq), which saw an A380 fly around an Emirates Cabin Crew at the very top of the Burj Khalifa; the unprecedented formation flight with the Jetman (http://apo-opa.co/3TdcSV0) team back in 2015; and with the Red Arrows (http://apo-opa.co/3Tddj1o) in 2022.
Afzal Parambil, Country Manager of Southern Africa, Emirates said, “Tonight's record-setting flypast is a powerful display of our unwavering commitment to South Africa. It represents not just an achievement of technical excellence, but encapsulates our ongoing partnership with key stakeholders in South Africa, including the Civil Aviation Authority, O.R. Tambo International Airport, Emirates Lions and, of course, the strong relationship we've built with our customers and travel partners here over the years. For almost three decades, we've unlocked an array of choices for our customers, by offering an outstanding on-ground and in-flight experience coupled with seamless global connectivity, and we're not slowing down now. We look forward to the next 30 years, and beyond, of serving South Africa and spotlighting its many attractions to the world.”
Pieter Burger, Ellis Park Stadium Managing Director, said, “The flyover has become such a pre-match entertainment staple at the iconic Emirates Airline Park. First witnessed in 1995 at the final of the international rugby showpiece where the South African national rugby team was victorious, to have had this moment tonight against the very same opposition was a thrilling experience for fans watching at the stadium and at home.
We are extremely grateful to our long-time partner Emirates who were pivotal towards the success of this project, together with all other role players involved. From a lasting memory perspective, this will certainly be up there for those who had the privilege to witness the moment.”
The flypast also marks the return of Emirates' second A380 service on the Dubai-Johannesburg route, enhancing more customer choice and travel options with Emirates' iconic onboard products and world-class service. EK761 departs Dubai at 04.05, landing in Johannesburg at 10:15, with the return flight, EK762, departing Johannesburg at 13.25 and touching down in Dubai at 23.45, perfectly timed for onward connections to key destinations in the Far East, Europe and the Middle East.
Emirates is one of the world's biggest supporters of rugby. In South Africa, Emirates' investment in the sport is headlined by its steadfast title sponsorship of the Emirates Lions, including naming rights of the team's home stadium, Emirates Airline Park. The airline also sponsors the action-packed Cape Town Sevens, a regular fixture on the Sevens World Series calendar and one of the most popular live sporting events in South Africa, regularly drawing over 100,000 spectators.
Globally, Emirates can be found at the centre of the action from grassroots to professional leagues as the sponsor of Rugby World Cup since 2007, with prominent presence planned at the upcoming 2027 World Cup in Australia.
Firmly established as a long-term partner of South African aviation, tourism, and trade, Emirates has been serving the market for 29 years, connecting over 20 million travellers to/from South Africa with more than 140 destinations on its vast global network, via Dubai. The airline serves customers traveling to and from South Africa with 42 weekly flights to Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban, with additional connectivity to regional points across the country offered by its codeshare and interline partners South African Airways, Airlink, Cemair, and FlySafair.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Emirates Group.
When it comes to home improvement, the small details can make a big difference. From door handles to bathroom accessories, the right fixtures not only add functionality but also enhance the aesthetics of your space. Here’s a closer look at some of the essential elements that can bring both style and practicality to your home. …
An assault on SAPS is an assault on the state – Acting President
Acting President Paul Mashatile says any attack on the South African Police Service (SAPS) is an assault on the state itself and that those responsible for such acts, equivalent to treason, must face decisive action.
He was speaking at the SAPS National Commemoration Day at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Sunday.
Government honoured the 39 women and men in blue who died in the line of duty between April 2023 to March 2024. Their names have been engraved on the SAPS memorial wall at the Union Buildings as a symbol of gratitude for the sacrifices made in serving and protecting the nation.
“An assault on SAPS is a direct attack on the state, and we must take action against individuals who perpetrate this crime, which is equal to treason.
“[National Commissioner] General Fannie Masemola, police officers must not die with their service firearms on their holsters when criminals refuse to surrender and start firing at police. When a shootout ensues between police and criminals, police have a duty to protect their lives, as well as those of their colleagues and all community members,” he said.
Acting President Mashatile acknowledged that being a police officer was one of the most dangerous occupations and one may feel anxious knowing that they may leave their family for work and never return.
“In your defence, you must show criminals that you are in charge. You must act decisively, using proportionate force in line with the threat you are facing according to legal provisions. You must intensify your efforts to guarantee that you defeat crime.
“Minister Mchunu, we must make sure the police have enough tools to support their counterattack against criminals. We also need to find a balance to address the major issue of an increasing population, which police recruits simply cannot keep up with,” he said.
Acting President Mashatile said the country must strive to attain the United Nations' suggested ratio of one police officer for every 220 persons. He said the police-to-population ratio in South Africa has recently increased, rising from about 1:353 in 2014 to 1:427 in 2023.
He told the police officers gathered at the Union Buildings that the 39 members being commemorated had entrusted them with a significant duty to carry on the baton and guarantee peace and order.
“May you never tire of serving your nation by working harder to imprison all offenders in honour of your fallen colleagues. In the honour of these gallant crime fighters, you must remain unshaken in your resolve to keep our communities safe. May you uphold the integrity of the badge and relentlessly strive to bring those responsible for any police officer's death to justice,” he said.
Acting President Mashatile said the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations, commonly known as the Hawks, had arrested 18 suspected police killers between April and June this year.
Twelve of them were convicted and sentenced to a cumulative 139 years imprisonment. The court sentenced one of the killers to life in prison.
The Hawks’ work is ongoing to bring justice to the families who lost their loved ones in the fight against crime, he said, adding that other cases are pending in court and that he hoped they would receive harsh sentences.
“Of grave concern is the fact that, since 2021, inclusive of today, we have commemorated a total of 140 police men and women who lost their lives in the hands of criminals while performing their official duties.
“This number is alarmingly high, especially considering that these are men and women who have the potential to lead the future SAPS to a crime-free South Africa,” Acting President Mashatile said.
The Acting President emphasised that it was imperative for a collaborative approach to resolving internal challenges, including low morale among members, SAPS members involved in criminal activities, and ageing infrastructure, in order to enable the police to fulfil their constitutional obligations.
“Fighting crime should not only be the SAPS responsibility; communities are expected to work with the police to fight criminal activity, protect their properties, and help identify criminals.
“Criminals are humans who live in our communities, and residents know where they live. As a result, we urge all community members to inform the police of criminals' whereabouts to enable them to promptly arrest all criminal elements in our communities,” he said.
Mashatile called for the strengthening of Community Policing Forums (CPF). – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sun, 09/01/2024 - 12:53
The inaugural Splash Tri Dash which took place at Amanzimtoti Main Beach on Sunday, 25 August, supported by Sapphire Coast Tourism, was a massive success, attracting hundreds of spectators and some of the country’s top competitors. The titles were taken by two of the country’s best triathletes; Henri Schoeman (32) the Olympic bronze medallist in …
Following the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President, and as part of the country's continuous humanitarian efforts to support other nations in confronting challenges and crises, the UAE has dispatched several aircraft carrying Monkeypox vaccines to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, South Africa, Côte d'Ivoire, and Cameroon, to support their efforts to address and contain the outbreak of the virus.
His Excellency Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, said: “The support offered highlights the significant importance placed by the UAE on enhancing global humanitarian and healthcare efforts, and affirms the country's steadfast commitment to assisting other nations during crises and disasters."
His Excellency added: “The initiative reflects the UAE's commitment to humanitarian values as part of its ongoing commitment to extend a helping hand and assist impacted communities across the world."
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Arab Emirates Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation.
Just a year after the official sod-turning ceremony in 2023, the first residents of the eco-focused Serenity Hills estate on the KZN South Coast have taken up residence. This is a significant milestone for the vibrant coastal estate, with momentum set to increase as more investors discover this unique residential gem near Margate. “Handing over …
Deputy President commends BRICS New Development Bank for pledges
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has expressed his gratitude to the BRICS New Development Bank for its backing of South African infrastructure investment.
“I want to express my gratitude once again for the bank's pledge, and specifically for the promises made regarding the bank's assistance for South African infrastructure investment. In this regard, we take note of the US$5.6 billion in loans extended to our country over the last eight years,” the Deputy President said.
He was addressing the Energy Seminar convened by the BRICS New Development Bank at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on Saturday.
The NDB has approved $2.3 billion for 10 renewable energy projects, including solar PV, wind, hydropower, biomass, and hybrid systems with storage. These projects aim to install a 2.8GW generation capacity, reducing over 4 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
“We also appreciate the bank's plans to assist Transnet in resolving the deficiencies in freight rail infrastructure. The Transnet project in particular is of utmost importance in guaranteeing a goods system that is internationally competitive, allowing for the continuous expansion and diversification of the country's economy,” Mashatile said.
He highlighted that during their discussions they had agreed that a challenge was the sluggish payment of authorised projects in South Africa. He discussed the matter with the Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana and his team at National Treasury, who have promised to attend to it.
“We are also impressed that the bank has appointed former National Treasury official Mr Monale Ratsoma as its Chief Financial Officer and Vice-President. We will work with you to ensure that the pledge that the bank made of US$3 billion at the BRICS Summit comes to reality because it is focused on supporting our energy strategy,” he said.
Deputy President Mahsatile told the NDP President that the government is especially eager to learn from China's experience in rapidly scaling up renewable energy capacity and modernising its grid infrastructure; India's successes in promoting rural electrification and integrating large-scale renewable energy projects; Brazil's expertise in hydroelectric power and bioenergy and Russia's strategies for managing a vast transmission network and its progress in nuclear energy.
“We hope to gain insights into effective models for private sector participation in transmission infrastructure development; strategies for balancing grid stability with the integration of variable renewable energy sources; innovative financing mechanisms for large-scale energy projects and best practices in managing the socio-economic aspects of energy transitions.
“Specifically, one of the lessons we are learning from one of the BRICS Member Nations is that they have invested in the creation of new cities as a method to eradicate poverty. We are of the same opinion that it is imperative to allocate resources towards the construction of new cities in Africa in order to alter the spatial perspective of our cities,” he said.
“As we collaborate with the NDB, we will invest in new cities in response to today's realities, which are growing urbanisation, migration, climate change, poverty, unemployment, and pandemic management. The future is in the cities.”
The Deputy President told delegates that if South Africa accelerates the construction of these cities, it will address the large influx of people from rural areas moving to urban areas, which has put tremendous strain on cities, causing traffic congestion, housing infrastructure backlogs, and, to some extent, an increase in crime rates.
“However, as we develop these cities, we must remember that sustainable cities require dependable, inexpensive, and renewable energy to operate. High-energy consumption patterns, rising energy costs, and environmental deterioration caused by the use of fossil fuels render cities vulnerable and inefficient,” he said.
The Deputy President presented some of the key initiatives and reforms government has undertaken.
He spoke about the process of unbundling Eskom into three separate entities: generation, transmission, and distribution. This separation will enhance efficiency, improve accountability, and open up the sector to much-needed competition and investment.
“We have also implemented a debt relief programme for Eskom, allocating R254 billion over the next three years. This financial support is crucial for Eskom's operational stability and will enable the utility to invest in critical maintenance and upgrades of existing infrastructure,” he said.
The country is expanding generation capacity where several steps have been taken already.
“To this end, we are implementing an ambitious transmission expansion plan, including piloting Independent Power Transmission (IPT) projects and streamlining regulations to accelerate the development of transmission infrastructure.
“This initiative aims to unlock renewable energy potential in the Northern, Eastern, and Western Cape provinces. The aim is to connect new generation capacity to the grid.
“As we pursue these reforms, we remain steadfast in our commitment to a just energy transition. We have, however, decided not to transition into the dark. We are a coal-endowed country,” he said.
The Deputy President said the reforms and initiatives were just the beginning as the country is open to learning, adapting, and collaborating. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sun, 09/01/2024 - 11:40
There is something for everyone at the Crocworld Craft Market which is held in the Crocworld parking lot on the last Saturday of each month, from 9am to 2pm. Families can enjoy a host of activities, with live entertainment and a new theme monthly. The next Crocworld Craft Market on Saturday, 31 August, will host …
President Ramaphosa to lead SA delegation to China for State Visit
President Cyril Ramaphosa will undertake a State Visit to the People’s Republic of China this week where he will also participate at the Forum on China – Africa Cooperation Summit (FOCAC).
The State Visit, which comes at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, and the FOCAC Summit will take place in Beijing from 2 - 5 September 2024.
President Ramaphosa is expected to be flanked by Cabinet Ministers from portfolios including International Relations and Cooperation; Science, Technology and Innovation; Human Settlements; Small Business Development; Presidency; Trade, Industry and Competition; Electricity and Energy; Public Works and Infrastructure; Higher Education and Agriculture.
The delegation will also include the Premier of the Eastern Cape, Oscar Mabuyane and Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba as well as senior government officials.
President Ramaphosa hosted President Xi Jinping on his fourth State Visit to South Africa in August 2023 in Tshwane, cementing 25 years of strong bonds of friendship and cooperation the two countries have enjoyed since establishing formal diplomatic relations.
“China is South Africa's largest trading partner globally, while South Africa is China’s number one trading partner in Africa. Total bilateral trade grew from R614 billion in 2022 to R692 billion in 2023,” the Presidency said in a statement.
On Monday, President Ramaphosa’s State Visit to China officially commences with a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People.
Ahead of the bilateral engagement, the President will lay a wreath at the Monument to the People’s Heroes in Tiananmen Square in honour of Chinese revolutionaries.
South Africa and China’s bilateral relations are maintained at the level of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), underpinned by a Ten-Year Strategic Programme of Cooperation (2020 – 2029).
“South Africa and China will sign agreements that are aimed at enhancing economic cooperation and the implementation of technical cooperation, particularly in the fields of human settlements, agriculture and science and technology.
“On Tuesday, 3 September 2024, President Ramaphosa will champion South Africa’s economic diplomacy with China by visiting Shenzhen, an economic technology hub in the Guangdong Province to interact with industry leaders and tour the headquarters of two tech companies as part of the bilateral business programme of the State Visit,” the Presidency said.
On Wednesday, President Ramaphosa will address the South Africa - China Business Forum on the margins of the FOCAC in Beijing.
On Thursday, the President will participate in the FOCAC Summit held under the theme “Joining Hands to Advance Modernisation and Build a High-Level China-Africa Community with a Shared Future”.
“The President will co- chair, with the Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Mr Wang Huning, the High-Level Panel Seminar on Accompanying Africa in Industrialisation, Agricultural Modernisation and Green Development to Embark on the path to Modernisation,” the Presidency said.
South Africa’s participation in FOCAC is driven by a constant advancement of Africa’s position on development as outlined by the African Union’s Agenda 2063: The Africa we Want and its related Flagship Programmes.
A Declaration and Action Plan (2025-2027) will be issued at the conclusion of the 2024 FOCAC Summit. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sun, 09/01/2024 - 09:22
Treasury welcomes NDB funding commitments for freight logistics, water projects
The National Treasury has welcomed the funding commitments by the New Development Bank (NDB) to critical freight logistics and water projects.
The bank, during the 9th Annual Meeting of the Board of Directors of the NDB in Cape Town this week, announced that its Board had approved a US$1billion loan to South Africa for financing water and sanitation infrastructure development under the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG).
Additionally, it was announced that a R5 billion loan agreement with Transnet was also extended.
“We welcome the NDB's funding commitments. They will go a long way in assisting us with the funding challenges faced by some of our programmes and parastatals. Every cent is welcome.
"Of course, many of our broader plans for infrastructure pipeline development and funding will be unpacked during the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement in October,” said Minister of Finance and NDB Governor, Enoch Godongwana.
The annual meeting included engaging sessions and seminars focused on energy; unlocking financing for sustainable development in emerging markets and developing countries; and the role of development finance institutions in infrastructure investment.
Godongwana said government looked to the NDB to provide solutions aimed at de-risking infrastructure projects through its financial instruments to attract private capital.
This, he said, would support infrastructure projects and provide technical assistance in designing innovative funding models and institutional arrangements that could accelerate infrastructure investments at a country-level.
“However, if the bank is to continue advancing the interests of the developing world and addressing challenges such as renewable energy, infrastructure development, digital access, and job creation then the NDB must make a concerted effort to speed-up disbursements of approved projects,” said the Minister. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Sun, 09/01/2024 - 09:30
Eskom marks 156 days of constant energy supply
Eskom says it has delivered 156 consecutive days of uninterrupted power supply since 26 March 2024 and load shedding remains suspended.
The power utility has also achieved a R11.08 billion reduction in diesel expenditure.
In a statement, Eskom said it has maintained a constant electricity supply throughout the 122-day winter period, and no load shedding has been implemented since the start of its current financial year on 1 April 2024.
On August 26, Eskom announced its outlook for the summer period, 1 September 2024 to 31 March 2025, which detailed a likely scenario of a load shedding-free summer outlook due to structural generation improvements.
“Eskom maintained an average Energy Availability Factor (EAF) of 67% over the past seven days, with the best-performing stations – Kusile, Kendal, Matimba, Medupi, Matla and the peaking stations – sustaining an EAF of above 70%.
“Additionally, the three power stations that have achieved an EAF above 60% in past week sustained this improvement.
“This is due to the continued benefits of accelerating and executing planned maintenance, partnering with the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and the dedication of power station managers and their teams,” said Eskom.
It said operational efficiency continues to surpass winter expectations, with current unplanned outages averaging between 9 800MW and 11 300MW over the past seven days.
The Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF) continues to be on a downward trend at 25.6% for the financial year to date (01 April 2024 to 29 August 2024), improving from 34.6% in the corresponding period last year.
This reduction in UCLF represents a -9% improvement compared to the same period last year.
Unplanned outages of the generation units averaged 10 578MW during the past seven days, compared to 15 921MW in the corresponding week last year.
With regards to planned maintenance, Eskom said ongoing planned maintenance is at 5 983MW, “aligning with our winter maintenance strategy and bolstered by short-term maintenance to ensure continuous plant reliability”. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sun, 09/01/2024 - 08:53
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure extends heartfelt congratulations to all the winners of the 2024 Empowerment and Recognition of Women in Construction (ERWIC) Awards. The Chairperson is encouraged by the evolution of this initiative, which began as a celebration of women thriving in a male-dominated construction sector. Over the years, it has grown into a vital platform for knowledge exchange, empowerment, and advocacy for a women's voices in the construction industry.
Since their inception in 2020, ERWIC awards have been hosted by the Construction Industry Development Board and over the years the awards have gained momentum and significant growth. The awards encompass various categories recognising women mentors, women-led projects, and youth ownerships amongst women with the goal of supporting and uplifting extraordinary women dedicated to building the nation.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure, Ms Carol Phiri, said, “We salute the women who are at the forefront of driving excellence and transformation in the broader public works and infrastructure sector and playing their part in job creation and nation building.”
Ms Phiri added that the committee expects to receive a detailed report from the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure on the implementation of transformational plans within the construction sector before the end of the 2024/25 financial year.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will at the invitation of His Excellency President Xi Jinping undertake a State Visit to the People's Republic of China and participate at the Forum on China – Africa Cooperation Summit (FOCAC).
The State Visit and FOCAC Summit will take place in Beijing from 2 - 5 September 2024.
President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted President Xi Jinping on his fourth State Visit to South Africa in August 2023 in the City of Tshwane, cementing twenty five years of strong bonds of friendship and cooperation the two countries enjoy since establishing formal diplomatic relations.
China is South Africa's largest trading partner globally, while South Africa is China's number one trading partner in Africa. Total bilateral trade grew from R614 billion in 2022 to R692 billion in 2023.
On Monday, 2 September 2024, President Ramaphosa's State Visit to China officially commences with a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People. Ahead of the bilateral engagement, President Ramaphosa will lay a wreath at the Monument to the Peoples Heroes in Tiananmen Square in honour of Chinese revolutionaries.
South Africa and China's bilateral relations are maintained at the level of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) level, underpinned by a Ten-Year Strategic Programme of Cooperation (2020 – 2029).
South Africa and China will sign agreements that are aimed at enhancing economic cooperation and the implementation of technical cooperation, particularly in the fields of human settlements, agriculture and science and technology.
On Tuesday, 3 September 2024, President Ramaphosa will champion South Africa's economic diplomacy with China by visiting Shenzhen, an economic technology hub in the Guangdong Province to interact with industry leaders and tour the headquarters of two tech companies as part of the bilateral business programme of the State Visit.
The President will address the South Africa - China Business Forum on Wednesday, 4 September 2024, on the margins of the FOCAC in Beijing.
On Thursday, 5, September 2024, President Ramaphosa, will participate in the FOCAC Summit held under the theme “Joining Hands to Advance Modernisation and Build a High-Level China-Africa Community with a Shared Future”.
The President will co- chair, with the Chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Mr Wang Huning , the High Level Panel Seminar on “Accompanying Africa in Industrialization, Agricultural Modernization and Green Development to Embark on the path to Modernization”.
South Africa ‘s participation in FOCAC is driven by a constant advancement of Africa's position on development as outlined by the African Union's Agenda 2063: The Africa we Want and its related Flagship Programmes.
A Declaration and Action Plan (2025-2027) will be issued as the outcome documents of the 2024 FOCAC Summit.
The Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation, Science, Technology and Innovation; Human Settlements; Small Business Development; Presidency; Trade Industry and Competition; Electricity and Energy ; Public Works and Infrastructure; Higher Education ; Agriculture are accompanying the President to the China State Visit and FOCAC along Premiers of the Eastern Cape and Limpopo province as well as senior government officials.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
An impressive 21 used car searches took place every second in South Africa during the first half of 2024. This is one of many fascinating insights to emerge from the 2024 AutoTrader Mid-Year Car Industry Report. The theme of this year’s report is #RethinkAutoSales, and – as George Mienie, CEO of AutoTrader, explains – traditional …
Women in the rural and township economies are more vulnerable to poverty and unemployment, according to Julika Falconer, CEO of Durban-based Zero2Five Trust which focusses on ECD (Early Childhood Development). Working within these communities, she says poverty is a daily reality and impacts on the fact that many children do not receive the education needed …
Gqeberha, South Africa — The Business Incubation Web Association (BIWA) is proud to announce the International Conference on Business Innovation and Incubation, set to take place from October 2-4, 2024, at the prestigious Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha. This landmark event will bring together thought leaders, industry experts, and entrepreneurs from across the globe to …
By Thula Mngoma (Academic – Regent Business School) In South Africa, women aspiring to leadership roles encounter a landscape shaped by historical inequalities and persistent socio-economic challenges. Regent Business School Academic, Thula Mngoma, examines the specific hurdles faced by women, particularly black women, as they strive for leadership positions. She highlights the strategies that have …
Sungrow Unveils Latest PowerStack 200CS: A Game-Changer now available in South Africa’s Energy Sector South Africa, Johannesburg 22 August 2024: Sungrow, a global leader in PV inverters and energy storage solutions, has unveiled its latest Commercial and Industrial (C&I) Energy Storage System (ESS), the PowerStack 200CS, at Intersolar Europe. This innovation comes at a crucial …
In today’s digital landscape, photography is not just a hobby but a potential business opportunity. With advanced smartphone cameras, capturing breathtaking images has never been easier. But how do you translate those striking shots into a profitable venture? For photography enthusiasts, there are multiple avenues to explore, from showcasing your work online to selling physical …
Introduction In the bustling world of logistics and warehousing, efficiency and cost-effectiveness are paramount. Forklifts, particularly electric models, are at the forefront of modern material handling solutions, offering versatility and eco-friendliness. This guide provides an in-depth look at forklift rentals, focusing on electric forklifts, understanding rental prices, and the significance of quality forklift batteries. By …
New Development Bank key to progress in developing countries
Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has called for visible thought leadership on how the New Development Bank (NDB) can play a more catalytic role in the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in developing and emerging markets.
The SDGs are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
“The Bank must be unwavering in its commitment to the SDGs as it remains the most relevant benchmark for the development priorities of developing countries. Therefore, as we grow and strengthen the NDB as an institution, we must not lose sight of its developmental mandate.
“There is a need to address global challenges such as geopolitical challenges, which impacts multilateralism, escalating climate stresses, widening economic and social divides, and challenges we face at a national level.
“This includes poverty, inequality, and unemployment that continue to plague our societies,” Godongwana said on Friday. The Minister was addressing the NDB Annual meeting in Cape Town.
The Minister noted the significant progress that has been made by the Bank since being operational.
“[However], we must recognise that there is still much work to be done. As the 2030 Agenda draws near, increased momentum towards achieving the SDGs is imperative. This is a critical time for global development partners to come together and convey a strong message on the broad development agenda,” he said.
The Minister said progress on the SDGs will require targeted investment.
“Access to concessional development finance for developing countries is imperative to ensure accelerated progress in addressing development challenges and achieving inclusive growth that creates economic opportunities for all.
“In addition, there is a need for sizeable increases and greater stability in the flow of private capital investments. The NDB can play an essential role in mobilising private investment and ensuring it flows where it is needed most.
“The Bank must implement innovative financing instruments to crowd-in private sector participation. This should be accompanied by technology transfer and capacity building support as multidimensional enablers to accelerate the implementation of the SDGs, especially in key areas such as renewable energy, infrastructure development, digital access and job creation,” Godongwana said.
He said investment in infrastructure is central to the achievement of the development goals.
“Infrastructure is an enormous economic multiplier, providing dividends for an economy long after the infrastructure has been built. We believe that the NDB’s activities in developing and emerging markets will assist in addressing the large infrastructure financing gap that has been impeding economic growth and development, particularly in Africa.
“In this slow growth environment, where fiscal and monetary policy is limited, public and private role players need to collaborate to support growth.
“To this end, we look to the NDB to provide solutions aimed at de-risking infrastructure projects through its financial instruments to attract private capital,” the Minister said.
This will support infrastructure projects and provide technical assistance in designing innovative funding models and institutional arrangements that could accelerate infrastructure investments at a country-level.
“However, if the Bank is to continue advancing the interests of the developing world and address challenges such as renewable energy, infrastructure development, digital access and job creation then NDB must make a concerted effort to speed-up disbursements of approved projects.
“As more African countries become members of the NDB we believe that the Bank can play a very instrumental role in the provision of infrastructure and addressing its infrastructure deficit,” he said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 11:44