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Crime Stats reveal reduction in some categories of crime
Crime Stats reveal reduction in some categories of crime
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu says although there has been some reduction in several categories, more still needs to be done to reduce the country’s crime levels.
“We are positioning ourselves accordingly in terms of policing whilst we continue our work throughout the whole country,” Mchunu said.
The Minister was presenting the Quarterly Crime Statistics, reflecting on crimes that occurred during the third quarter of the current financial year (1 October 2024 – 31 December 2024).
At Friday’s briefing in Pretoria, the Minister said the police had observed an overall decrease in several categories of crime when compared to the same period in the previous year.
“We have also registered a 4.5% reduction in stock theft, which is a welcome relief for farmers, communities and the agricultural sector as a whole,” Mchunu said, adding that the positive shift highlights the importance of continued collaboration between law enforcement, local leaders and communities to safeguard this vital industry.
“Although the percentage appears to be relatively small, we note the outcry of communities that farm livestock, particularly in the eastern Free State, north western parts of KwaZulu-Natal and in the northern Eastern Cape, hence our plan to combine these three provinces in a meeting to discuss this challenge.
“We must, however, also acknowledge the areas that require urgent attention. We have seen an increase in cases of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and malicious damage to property. These crimes continue to disrupt communities and demand a reinforced response from law enforcement.
“For the third quarter, all provinces recorded a decrease in murder cases, marking a significant milestone in our national crime reduction efforts,” the Minister explained.
Murder
However, he expressed concern over the provinces of Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and the Western Cape.
This as Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal remain the highest contributors to overall national murder figures, accounting for 25.0% and 21.4% respectively, while the Eastern and Western Cape account for 18.9% and 17.4%.
“The Western Cape continues to record the highest number of gang-related murders, with 263 counts reported in this quarter alone.
“This is completely unacceptable, and it must change. A large number of these murders (collectively amounting to a figure of 135) occurred in Bishop Lavis, Mitchells Plain, Kleinvlei, Delft and Elsies River.
A 9.8% decrease in murder cases was recorded in the quarter.
“The issue of gang violence requires a rethink in approach, because this is not only a historic matter but is also repetitive in nature, there is no point in us discussing one and the same thing with no change.”
He further announced that the police are dedicating 27 February to amongst other things, to review policing in high murder zones. The focus, said the Minister, will be on murders and firearms, after which they will decide on the concrete steps to be taken.
“Partnerships with communities and other partners will be a critical element in the rethinking approach. A combination of interventions indicates that there are much more effective methods of fighting crime and criminals.
“Several individuals have been dealt with in a number of areas in the Eastern Cape recently and KwaZulu- Natal, following a series of taxi violence and extortion related murders. I do want to state that no one is classified as “untouchable” – you do wrong, we arrest you,” Mchunu said.
Crimes against women and children
Mchunu said while police have registered an overall reduction in contact crimes against women, the men and women in blue are deeply concerned by the increase in attempted murder cases against children aged 0 to 17 years.
“This is an alarming development that calls for a concerted effort to protect the most vulnerable members of our society,” he said.
Another bugbear was that of extortions, kidnappings and drugs with these matters being added to the meeting on 27 February.
Police have noted that some of the kidnappings are orchestrated from the St Albans prison in the Eastern Cape and that the mastermind of these kidnappings still has access to a number of cellphones.
Meanwhile, the statistics showed a 3.3% reduction in rape cases; a 3.2% drop in attempted sexual offences and a decline in carjackings and robberies at both residential and non-residential premises.
Police also registered a 4.5% reduction in stock theft, which is a welcome relief for farmers, communities and the agricultural sector as a whole.
Safer Festive Season, new recruits
Mchunu said the Safer Festive Season initiative, launched in October 2024, has played a significant role in the recorded crime reductions.
“Through heightened police visibility and strategic operations, fewer crimes were reported and recorded during this period.
“A key element in our crime-fighting strategy has been Project 10 000, aimed at bolstering police personnel,” he said.
In addition, to bolster the fight against crime, police welcomed 5500 new recruits at various South African Police Service (SAPS) academies.
“These individuals will undergo rigorous training and, upon completion, will reinforce our crime-fighting efforts as constables. This initiative not only enhances policing capacity but also contributes to job creation, a crucial aspect in addressing social determinants of crime,” the minister said.
Destroying illegal weapons
Mchunu said that just yesterday, 16 049 firearms were destroyed in accordance with Section 149 of the Firearms Control Act.
“We will continue to carry out measures aimed at ensuring that illegal weapons are seized and destroyed so as to ensure the safety of our communities,” he said.
Mchunu appealed to communities to work hand in hand with law enforcement.
“Crime thrives in silence, and we urge all South Africans to report criminal activities, cooperate with the police, and participate in community policing forums,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 13:52
208 views
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Conference discusses strategies to achieve women’s economic inclusion
Conference discusses strategies to achieve women’s economic inclusion
Without a dedicated plan and political will to combat patriarchal forms of exploitation, Africa’s commitment to eradicating “all forms of gender-based violence and discrimination against women and girls” by 2063, will remain hollow.
These were remarks made by the Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga.
The Minister was speaking at the Southern African Regional High-Level Conference on Advancing Economies of Women in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and Africa on Thursday.
The Ministry in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, in collaboration with the Gates Foundation, is hosting the first Southern African Regional consultation to advance women economic empowerment in the SADC region.
The high-level two-day consultation forum, held in Sandton, Johannesburg, brings together women leaders from the SADC region, including senior government officials, policymakers, and representatives from other African Union (AU) Member States.
The forum, which will conclude on Friday, aims to discuss strategies to achieve women’s economic inclusion, financial access and Economic Justice and Rights (EJR) across the SADC region.
In her address, Chikunga acknowledged that women own fewer productive assets and that their businesses have fewer opportunities to trade. She also said that women experience financial exclusion and have limited access to markets and procurement.
She warned that without concrete measures in place, the continent’s aspiration to ensure that African women in all spheres -- granting them equal social, political, and economic rights, including the right to own and inherit property, sign contracts and manage businesses -- will remain unfulfilled.
“Similarly, rural women’s access to productive assets such as land, credit, inputs and financial services, will remain idle and futile without deliberate action. Without a deliberate skills revolution, the desire to position our youth at the forefront of knowledge and as catalysts of innovation and entrepreneurship, will fall short.
“Only when education and skills are accessible to all, will we be able to cultivate the creativity, energy and innovation of Africa’s youth into a driving force behind the continent’s political, social, cultural and economic transformation,” she explained.
Despite the continent’s noble vision, the Minister argued it will remain a distant reality “until we put in place concrete measures with firm timelines, deliverables and accountability mechanisms to ensure its realisation.”
She emphasised that the success of Agenda 2063 rests squarely on the seriousness of the leaders’ commitment to uplift women and girls, enabling them to pull the entire continent forward.
According to the AU, Agenda 2063 is Africa's development blueprint to achieve inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development over a 50-year period.
Beyond Agenda 2063, the Minister highlighted the region’s support for the consultative forum, which is also inspired by the SADC Vision 2050 and the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020-2030, which both reflect the region’s developmental aspirations.
She underscored the importance of increasing women’s participation in regional development, enhancing equal access to opportunities, achieving gender parity, strengthening gender mainstreaming at both national and regional levels, and combating gender-based violence (GBV).
Economic participation
Chikunga emphasised that the economic potential of the region cannot be fully realised when half of its population remains underrepresented in trade, financial systems, digital economies, and entrepreneurship.
She also stressed the importance of ensuring that girls and women have access to quality education, as this is essential for meaningful economic participation to help address barriers. These barriers include early marriages, teenage pregnancies, and other societal norms that hold back the girl child.
‘We must provide young women with the kind of vocational and technical training that is tailored to market demands and empowers women to participate in diverse sectors, including STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), agriculture, and entrepreneurship.
“We must note that, as things stand, women make up less than a third of the workforce across STEM careers, a number that should alarm all of us.
“The historical and ongoing exclusion of women from STEM is a tragedy we must confront urgently. Tangible programmes are needed to correct societal and cultural beliefs that use gender stereotypes to perpetuate scientific inequality,” she explained.
The Minister further highlighted the need for financial inclusion and access to investment opportunities, including access to land, productive assets, and property rights.
She also called for the provision of smartphones for women in the marketplace, including access to the internet, and digital tools that can enhance their economic participation. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 02/20/2025 - 17:30
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Merck Foundation CEO Provides 194 Oncology Scholarships in Africa
- Merck Foundation marks World Cancer Day with African First Ladies by providing 194 scholarships of Oncology Training to African doctors from 32 countries.
- Merck Foundation together with Africa First Ladies and Ministries of Health has been building cancer care capacity and increasing the limited number of Oncologists in their countries by providing close to 200 Scholarships of One-, two- and three-years fellowship, diploma and Master Degree of oncology to African doctors from 32 Countries.
- Merck Foundation is making history in Africa by training the First African Oncologists and First Cancer Care Teams in Countries such as The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, Burundi, Malawi, Niger, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and more.
Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, marks ‘World Cancer Day 2025' together with Africa's First Ladies and Ministries of Health. Through their Cancer Access Program, Merck Foundation is is building quality and equitable cancer care capacity in Africa.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, the CEO of Merck Foundation, highlighted, “At Merck Foundation, we mark World Cancer Day not just as a single day, but as a our continued commitment to transform and advance cancer care in Africa.
Together with my dear sisters, the Africa's First Ladies, we are have enhanced the cancer care capacity in the continent by providing 194 scholarships to young African doctors from 32 countries, significantly increasing the number of oncologists in Africa. We are making history together by providing these important scholarships for the first oncologists and /or the first cancer care teams in many countries across Africa.”
Merck Foundation in total provided more than 2100 scholarships to doctors from over 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.
The Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program provides One, two- and three-years fellowship, Post Graduate Diploma and Master Degree of oncology for doctors from Africa. The clinical training has been conducted in India, Egypt and Kenya. Additionaly, Merck Foundation also provides scholarships for 2 years online PG Diploma in Cancer and Clinical Oncology, 01 year online PG Diploma in Medical Oncology and 1 year online PG Diploma in Pain Management from reputed Universities in UK like University of South Wales, University of Buckingham, Queen Mary University of London, and Cardiff University.
Merck Foundation is establishing Multidisciplinary Oncology Care teams in many African countries by providing scholarships of clinical training in Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Pediatrics Oncology, Gynecology Oncology, Breast Oncology, Haemato-Oncology, Orthopaedic Oncology, Palliative Care, Pathology Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Research in Oncology, Surgical Oncology - Genital Urinary System, Advanced Cytopathology Training, Interventional Radiology, Radiation Technician, Laboratory Technician, Oncology Nursing.
Merck Foundation through its Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program has provided 194 scholarships of Oncology to doctors from 32 countries including Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sao Tome & Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
“In several of these countries, there wasn't even a single oncologist. We are proud to be making history in Africa by training the first oncologists and establishing the first cancer care teams in nations such as The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, and Niger. Merck Foundation remains committed to transforming the landscape of cancer care across the continent and leading Africa toward a healthier future,” explained Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej.
Africa records around 1.1 million new cases of cancer, resulting in up to 700,000 deaths, every year, as per WHO data. The mortality rate of cancer patients is very high in Africa, as compared to the rest of the world.
“One of the key reasons is also the late diagnosis of the disease. Therefore, these scholarships are very important” added Senator Kelej.
Merck Foundation has also created awareness materials including awareness leaflets and videos on Cancer Prevention and Early Detection.
Dr. Chifundo Kajombo, Merck Foundation Alumni from Malawi shares, “I am privileged to be awarded a scholarship by Merck Foundation to pursue the Surgical Oncology fellowship training program at Tata Memorial Hospital, India. I managed to advance from basic surgical oncology principles to the advanced level. This has helped me improve my understanding of cancer and operative principles. Since returning back home, I have managed to change the structure of how our breast clinic runs and modified it to incorporate a number of new things that we probably could not have possibly included. I am so proud to share that I have just been awarded the Best Surgeon for 2023 in Malawi. I would not have achieved this feat without Merck Foundation's scholarship. I am very thankful.”
Watch testimonials videos of Merck Foundation Oncology Fellowship Alumni: https://apo-opa.co/4bab06Y
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.
Link of the extra posters: https://apo-opa.co/3X6RmD6
Contact details:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
+91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com
Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
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Download the Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/413wo9z
About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4k65XbW), X (https://apo-opa.co/43mGeGv), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/413ECyl), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3EVeWMS), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4gLTA1P) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4gSxZVs).
The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.
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Gauteng Legislature bemoans night club incident
Gauteng Legislature bemoans night club incident
The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety, has called on law enforcement agencies to ensure those responsible for the inhumane treatment of patrons at ZanZou nightclub in Pretoria, are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice.
The committee strongly condemned the shocking videos circulating on social media, which depict the alleged brutal and barbaric handling of patrons perpetrated at Zanzou nightclub.
Committee Chairperson, Bandile Masuku said the incident is a grave violation of human rights and an abuse of the dignity of the individuals involved.
“The committee is deeply concerned by the inhumane treatment of the patrons, which is completely unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms. This incident serves as a painful reminder of our apartheid past, where Black men and women were subjected to torture and dehumanisation at the hands of the racist apartheid security forces.
“We cannot allow such atrocities to be repeated in a free and democratic South Africa. Such actions have no place in a democratic society that is founded on the principles of human dignity, equality, and the rule of law,” Masuku said in a statement on Tuesday.
The committee has called on Gauteng South African Police Service (SAPS) Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Tommy Mthombeni and all relevant law enforcement agencies, to ensure those responsible are swiftly apprehended and held accountable.
The committee also called for a comprehensive investigation into allegations that there might have been some form of police complicity in concealing and not acting appropriately in dealing with such violations.
The committee further called for the immediate closure of ZanZou nightclub and other establishments known to endanger the safety and rights of their patrons.
“No individual or entity should be allowed to violate the rights of others in such a manner, and those responsible must face the full might of the law. The committee has already written to the Provincial Police Commissioner to request a detailed status report on the investigation into this matter.
“We will continue to monitor developments closely to ensure that justice is served, and that such incidents are prevented in the future,” Masuku said.
Masuku’s comments come as the SAPS has launched a manhunt for at least eight foreign national suspects in connection with the incident that is making the rounds on social media platforms.
This as video clips of the incident have been circulating on social media.
READ | Police launch manhunt following Pretoria night club incident
Masuku reiterated the committee’s commitment to upholding the principles of community safety, warning that it will take any necessary actions to ensure accountability.
“The Portfolio Committee on Community Safety stands in solidarity with the victims of this incident and urges anyone with information that could assist in the investigation to come forward and report to the relevant authorities. Together, we must work towards a society where the rights and dignity of every individual are respected and protected.
Meanwhile, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development has condemned the incident.
READ | Government strongly condemns acts of dehumanisation
– SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 02/19/2025 - 11:06
55 views
Celebrating Best African Women and Young Researchers
- Merck Foundation announced the winners of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS Awards winners 2024, 5 Researchers from 5 different African Countries recognized under two categories - Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers.
- Merck Foundation also announced the Call for Applications for new edition of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS Awards 2025 to empower Women and Youth in STEM in Africa with special focus on ‘The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care'.
Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, announced the Winners of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2024, in partnership with International Federation of Fertility Societies -IFFS, Africa Reproductive Care Society - ARCS, Manipal University and African Union Scientific Technical Research Commission to recognize African Researchers for their valuable research work and contribution to empowering women and youth in STEM in Africa with special focus on ‘The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care'.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit - MARS expressed, “Since 2016, I have taken immense pride in recognizing the achievements of our MARS Awards winners. This year, we honor Six Winners in two categories: ‘Best African Women Researchers Awards' and ‘Best African Young Researchers Awards.'
These awards celebrate their significant contributions to research, particularly highlighting the efforts of African women researchers, who remain underrepresented in this field. Through the MARS Awards, our mission is to empower young researchers in Africa and to specifically encourage and support women researchers by enhancing their research capabilities and promoting their vital roles in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).”
The winners of ‘Best African Women Researchers Awards' and ‘Best Young African Researcher Awards' will be enrolled into research training at a premier research institute in India.
“And I am also very happy to share with you all that as promised, we provided an opportunity to our first-place winner of each category to attend the 11th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary which was recently conducted in Tanzania, however, only Mr. Jules Irenge Mongane was able to attend it”, shared Senator Rasha Kelej.
Merck Foundation is committed to improving the lives of people and has been transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with its partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, by providing 2080 Scholarships for doctors from 52 Countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.
The MARS 2024 Award Winners are:
Winners of “MARS Best Women African Researchers Awards” 2024
- Dr. Nompumelelo Lebogang Malaza, SOUTH AFRICA (First Position)
TOPIC: Association Between Biochemical And Epigenetic Markers With Glycaemic Control And Neonatal Outcomes In Diabetic Pregnancies
- Dr. Dorotheah Obiri, GHANA (Second Position)
TOPIC: Immune dysregulation in placental malaria and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy
Winners of “MARS Best Young African Researchers Awards” 2024
- Dr. Jules Irenge Mongane, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO (First Position)
TOPIC: Association Between Bacterial Vaginosis, Chlamydia Trachomatis Infection And Tubal Factor Infertility In Bukavu, Democratic Republic Of Congo
- Dr. Christian Chassem Lapue, GABON (Second Position)
TOPIC: Epidemiology of helminthiases in women of reproductive age living in Lambaréné and its surroundings, Gabon
- Dr. Gebrhud Berihu Haile, ETHIOPIA (Second Position)
TOPIC: Incidence of neonatal mortality and factors influencing neonate survival in neonatal intensive care unit in Northern Ethiopia: a prospective cohort study
“I am also excited to announce the Call for Applications for the new edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2024. This year, special focus will be again on “The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care,” added Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.
Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit - MARS 2025 will have scientific support from African Union Scientific-Technical and Research Commission (AU-STRC); African Reproductive Care Society (ARCS), and Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE).
Details for MARS AWARDS 2025
Abstracts are invited from final year African PhD students and young investigators involved in research related to either of the following topics:
1) Women's Health
2) Infertility and Reproductive Health
All applicants should be primarily based at African Research Institutes and Universities, although collaboration within Africa as well as outside is also welcome.
Last Date of Submission:
Applications can be submitted till 30th June 2025
How to apply:
Apply by clicking: https://apo-opa.co/3X5kcnH
Alternatively, the Applications and abstracts can be submitted via email to mars@merck-foundation.com, along with CV (including Name, Gender, Country, University/Hospital Name, Email address, Mobile Number) and the abstract document as an attachment.
Other Details:
- All Abstracts will be peer reviewed.
- Research Awards will be dedicated for two categories of Best African Women Researchers and Best Young Africa Researchers.
- Winners will be eligible for Research Training in a prestigious Research Institute in India.
- Top Winners will be invited to attend the 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.
Videos Link: https://apo-opa.co/4hXOFvN
Contact Detials:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
+91 9310087613
+91 9319606669
mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com
Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
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Website: http://www.Merck-Foundation.com
About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4gLG2TW), X ( https://apo-opa.co/3X70mZ3), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4b0ipG5), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4bbfmef), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4i22rgV) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4b8xLZ5).
The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.
AfCFTA offers SA businesses unlimited opportunities
AfCFTA offers SA businesses unlimited opportunities
The implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) offers businesspeople in South Africa unlimited opportunities to grow their businesses and expand their market into the rest of the continent.
This is according to the Director of Africa Bilateral Economic Relations at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), Calvin Phume.
Phume was speaking at a workshop that was hosted by the dtic in partnership with the Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development and Tourism and Gert Sibande District Municipality in Ermelo, Mpumalanga, recently.
The purpose of the workshop was to equip the Mpumalanga businesspeople with information that will enable them to take advantage of opportunities presented by the AfCFTA in order to enter the African export market and expand their businesses into the continent.
“The African Continental Free Trade Agreement has created a single market comprising more than 1.3 billion people that businesspeople across the continent can take advantage of.
“This will provide South African companies with new market access opportunities to key markets in the African continent beyond the Southern Africa Development Community,” he said.
Phume said the main objective of the agreement was to eliminate all barriers to trade in Africa to enable the free flow of goods and services across the continent.
“This is meant to allow businesspeople like yourselves to contribute in increasing intra-African trade and investment. Through the Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, African leaders have set themselves an ambition of increasing intra-Africa trade from the current 17% to 81% by 2035,” Phume said.
He stressed that the agreement emphasises harmonisation of trade regulation in the continent, value-addition, economic inclusion, industrialisation and beneficiation.
“These open up a myriad of opportunities for your companies to increase production and create jobs for women, youth and people with disabilities in order to service the huge market that has been created by the AfCFTA.
“This is your chance to grow your businesses by tapping into the expansive African market, increase your exports, increase your revenue, and contribute positively in growing the intra-African trade and investment,” he said.
Phume advised businesspeople to set themselves realistic ambitions when they venture into the rest of Africa, as the imposing size of the market created by the free trade agreement offers huge benefits and rewards, but could also be challenging and daunting for their small businesses.
“It is important that you conduct a thorough research and study of the market you intend entering because the fact that there are 55 countries means that each market has its own dynamics related to business environment and culture, infrastructure, logistical requirements, as well as norms and standards.
“It is always advisable to partner with a local company that can assist you to navigate the regulatory challenges and other hurdles. This will enable you to transform obstacles into opportunities that will be profitable and rewarding to your business,” advised Phume. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 02/17/2025 - 08:42
579 views
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Imam Muhsin Hendricks, Who Fought for Queer Rights, Assassinated
He reportedly said that the need to be authentic was greater than his fear of death
Women Ministry condemns brutal murder of gay activist Imam
Women Ministry condemns brutal murder of gay activist Imam
The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has condemned the brutal murder of Imam Muhsin Hendricks who was gunned down on Saturday while attending a wedding in Gqeberha.
Hendricks is a renowned Muslim scholar and an avid advocate for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) rights having served a number of organisations championing the cause for equality along gender lines within the Muslim faith.
Hendricks became the first Imam in the world to come out as gay in 1996 and was since removed from his position for coming out.
He is the founder of the Inner Circle, a global Muslim community advocating for a society free from discrimination based on religion, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
He also established the LGBTQIA+ inclusive Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque where there is no gender segregation.
Recently, Hendricks led the Al-Ghurbaah Foundation, which provides psycho-spiritual and social support to Muslims marginalised due to sexual orientation, gender identity, and belief.
Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Deputy Minister, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, said the murder of Hendricks was a stark reminder that the LGBTQIA+ community in South Africa continues to experience discrimination and hate crimes, despite the nation’s progressive legislation, such as the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act (2023), enshrined in part to protect the rights of the queer community.
Letsike recalled brave words uttered by Hendricks as he advanced the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights in the Muslim faith, as he said: “The need to be authentic was greater than the fear to die.”
“This brutal murder is not just about Imam Hendricks, it is a direct assault on all movements, organisations and persons advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights in South Africa. We call on the South African Police Services and all law enforcement agencies, to strengthen their investigation, and track the persons responsible for justice to prevail.” Letsike said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 02/17/2025 - 08:57
2 views
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Gqeberha to host historic G20 Employment Working Group
Gqeberha to host historic G20 Employment Working Group
All eyes are on Gqeberha as the city hosts the first G20 Employment Working Group (EWG) meeting, set to take place from 18-21 February 2025 at the renowned Boardwalk International Convention Centre.
As part of South Africa’s G20 Presidency, the country will hold a series of crucial Employment Working Group meetings, focusing on key labour and employment challenges, as well as technical sessions and high-level ministerial meetings.
Held under the theme: “Living and Working in an Unequal World: Ensuring Decent Work and Decent Lives”, the meetings will align with South Africa’s G20 Presidency theme of “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”.
The EWG meetings will focus on four key priorities, including:
• Inclusive Growth and Youth Employment – Reduce (not in employment, education, or training) (NEET) rates through job-rich growth, skills development, youth entrepreneurship and strengthened labour market institutions.
• Gender Equality in the Workforce – Closing pay gaps, tackling job segregation, and boosting women’s participation in STEM and leadership.
• Addressing Inequality and Declining Labour Income Share – Promoting fair wage-setting mechanisms to reverse the decline in labour income share and reduce economic inequality.
• Social Security and Digitalisation for an Inclusive Future of Work – Ensuring fair work in the digital economy by addressing AI, platform work and social protection expansion.
The first G20 EWG meeting will focus on pressing issues, including inclusive growth, youth employment, gender equality, income inequality, and the impact of digitalisation on the future of work.
Expressing her enthusiasm on the city hosting this historic event, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe, said Gqeberha is proud to be the host city for several of these important events, underscoring the city’s growing role as a destination for international collaboration and discourse.
"We, as South Africans, stand together in celebration of this remarkable achievement. South Africa is the first African country to host the G20, a momentous occasion that speaks to the growth, leadership, and global recognition of our nation.
“This is not just a victory for South Africa, but for the entire African continent, as we demonstrate our capacity to lead on the world stage. Nelson Mandela Bay is honoured to play its part in hosting these vital meetings, showcasing our city as a beacon of progress, innovation, and collaboration,” Lobishe said.
In addition to the EWG meeting, Gqeberha will also host several key G20 gatherings throughout the year, including:
• The Second Digital Economy Working Group from 8-12 April 2025.
• The Employment Working Group Ministerial Meeting from 25-26 July 2025.
• The Fourth Trade and Investment Working Group from 7-9 October 2025.
• The Trade and Investment Working Group Ministerial Meeting on 10 October 2025.
• The Women Empowerment Working Group on 24 October 2025.
“These events signify a tremendous opportunity for our city to showcase its strengths and commitment to addressing some of the most pressing global challenges, including employment, digital economy, trade, investment, and women’s empowerment. As a city, we look forward to fostering meaningful dialogue, exchange of ideas, and tangible outcomes that benefit not only our country but the entire global community,” the mayor said.
“Nelson Mandela Bay is excited to welcome delegates, dignitaries and international leaders to our city, and we are committed to ensuring that the G20 meetings will be a resounding success. These gatherings will further cement Nelson Mandela Bay’s and South Africa’s place as a key player in global discussions and as a growing hub for international events,” Lobishe said.
The Mayor extended an invitation to all citizens of Nelson Mandela Bay to embrace this historic moment and opportunity to be part of South Africa’s leadership on the world stage.
South Africa will host the G20 meetings from 1 December 2024 until 30 November 2025.
The G20 has about 19 member countries that represent 85% of global GDP and 75% of global trade. There are 16 working groups, and the Employment Working Group is among the critical components of the discussions. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 02/13/2025 - 12:30
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SAPD busts online drug syndicate selling illegal steroids and stimulants
SAPD busts online drug syndicate selling illegal steroids and stimulants
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has uncovered a drug syndicate selling steroids, scheduled medicine, stimulants and other performance enhancing drugs (PEDs) online.
Six suspects, three men and three women, have been arrested at various locations in Pretoria.
They face multiple charges related to the contravention of the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act, Medicines and Related Substances Act and the Counterfeit Goods Act.
The takedown operation took place on Tuesday following extensive investigations by the SAPS National Organised Crime Investigations (OCI) Narcotics Unit, supported by the SAPS' Transnational Vehicle Crime Investigation (VCI) Unit, Gauteng Provincial Narcotics Unit, Crime Intelligence, SAPS K9 Search and Rescue, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport and the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC).
The suspects were reportedly operating an online website to trade and distribute counterfeit and illicit performance-enhancing drugs, scheduled medicines, steroids and stimulants.
Investigations, which included a forensic analysis, revealed that the products contained prohibited substances.
One of the products sold online as a "fat burner" contained Dimethylphenethylamine, an isomer of methamphetamine (commonly known as crystal meth or Tik).
During the arrests, the team seized a substantial quantity of counterfeit and illicit performance-enhancing drugs, steroids, scheduled medicine and stimulants as well as electronic devices.
The suspects are expected to appear before a magistrate's court later this week as investigations continue. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 02/13/2025 - 12:52
234 views
The New Technical Partner to Cricket South Africa
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) is delighted to announce Macron Sport as the new official technical partner to CSA. This...
Economic transformation key to fostering inclusivity
Economic transformation key to fostering inclusivity
Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni has expressed support for the economic transformation initiatives recently announced by the President to build an inclusive economy that creates opportunities for the historically marginalised and generates new jobs.
During last week’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Cyril Ramaphosa said South Africa must lift economic growth to above 3% and create a thriving economy that benefits all.
“There is no way we can achieve the national consensus with an economy that excludes the majority. The social contract that we want to craft should contribute towards reconstructing our economy to achieve more growth, jobs and inclusion. This is more urgent for communities in the township and rural areas, especially youth and women,” Ndabeni said on Tuesday in Parliament.
Addressing the SONA Debate, the Minister said the national democratic society that government envisions must be founded on a dynamic and inclusive economy that reflects the country’s natural endowments and the innovation of its people.
“To ensure increased access to funding, the President has announced the innovation fund and transformation fund worth R20 billion per year over the next five years. These funds will act as a catalyst to attract other funds and disburse more funding and support to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs),” the Minister said in Parliament on Tuesday.
Government will set up a transformation fund worth R20 billion a year over the next five years to fund black-owned and small business enterprises.
“For us, land redistribution is a fundamental pillar of this transformation. Sustainable land reform must be supported by policies that equip small-scale and emerging farmers with the resources and skills needed for success,” she said.
She said economic transformation also requires a competitive and efficient market, free from the monopolistic constraints of colonial capitalism.
“For these goals to be achieved, the State must play a strategic role, including through directing resources towards boosting the township and rural economies. It is in line with this argument that we support the signed Land Expropriation Act and the transformation fund,” the Minister said.
The Act allows for the State to expropriate land in the public interest – subject to just and equitable compensation.
With government placing MSMEs at the centre of economic growth, the Minister said South Africa is drawing valuable lessons from the experiences of other developing countries across the world.
“We welcome the announcement that over the next three years, this administration will spend R940 billion on infrastructure projects. We eagerly await the finalisation of the regulations under the Public Procurement Act that will drive transformation, foster the emergence of new players in the economy, and enable participation of small enterprises,” the Minister said.
The regulations of the Public Procurement Act seek to ensure businesses owned by women, youth and persons with disabilities receive equitable opportunities in government contracts.
“As a department, we have a range of instruments to provide wholesale finance, direct loans, blended finance, working capital and grants to various categories of MSMEs s and co-operatives.
“Some of these we offer in partnership with financial institutions like banks, where our credit guarantee and supplier guarantee products are working well, leveraging R6.25 in financing for every rand we guarantee,” Ndabeni said.
She noted that government’s efforts in digitalising systems at the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA) will accelerate turnaround times and improve accountability to applicants.
The Township and Rural Enterprise Programme (TREP) applications will now be processed within seven days and the purchase order financing in four days.
“Through small enterprise eco-system, we have agreed on a stretch target of creating one million new MSMEs by 2030 and this will give us 3.7 million jobs, at current averages.
“We are currently undertaking industry engagements across various sectors to better understand trade and market demand pathways.
“Accordingly, we have engaged the automotive, wine and fishing industries – while in the coming weeks we will be extending these engagements to the agricultural sector, build industry, energy, petroleum and oil industry, sport and arts industries among others. We have accordingly looked at skills gaps within MSMEs and to this end we will be engaging Deans of Commerce across the country to ensure that their curriculum respond effectively,” the Minister said.
The Minister’s department is also engaging traditional leadership and organised business associations.
“We are exploring ways in which to make people in Township and Village economies true owners and drivers of this R 300 billion economy,” she said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 02/12/2025 - 09:13
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