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Team SA displays fortitude at Paris Olympics

Location: News

Team SA displays fortitude at Paris Olympics

Team South Africa has shown commendable fortitude at the 2024 Paris Olympics Games, having participated in five sporting codes on Saturday.

The team started with five medals but javelin thrower Jo-Ane van Dyk upped it to six with a brilliant effort of 63.93m. 

READ | Jo-Ane van Dyk earns Team SA’s sixth medal at Olympics

“Also in finals action at a packed Stade de France on Saturday night were high jumper Brian Raats and the men’s 4x400m relay squad.

“The men’s marathon saw Elroy Galant and Stephen Mokoka take to the Paris roads and hills. Galant finished a fine 11th overall, in 2hr 9min 7sec, while Mokoka crossed the line in 27th position, dipping under 2:11 by one second,” the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) said.

Canoeist Hamish Lovemore won his 1000m B-Final, which placed him 9th overall to end his Games on a high.

“Wrestler Nicholas de Lange was always going to be up against it in terms of his draw, and lost his match, while golfers Ashleigh Buhai and Paula Reto wrapped up four days at Le National Golf.

“China, with 38 golds, the United States (with 37), Australia (18), Japan (17) and France (15) took the lead in the medal standings. Team SA are 40th with one gold (Tatjana Smith), three silvers (Smith, men’s 4x100m and Van Dyk) and two bronzes (men’s Sevens rugby and Alan Hatherly),” SASCOC said.

Athletics

•    Men’s marathon: Elroy Galant finished 11th in 2hr 9min 7sec, some 2min 41sec behind the gold medallist, Tamarat Tola. The Ethiopian set an Olympic record in winning in 2:06:26. Stephen Mokoka was 27th, with a time of 2:10:59.
•    Men’s high jump, final: Brian Raats finished 12th with an opening height of 2.17m.
•    Women’s javelin, final: SILVER! Jo-Ane van Dyk threw a distance of 63.93m to take second. position.
•    Men’s 4x400m, final: Team SA finished 5th behind the United States in a national record 2:58.12.

Canoeing 

•    Men’s kayak single 1000m semi-finals: Hamish Lovemore finished 8th in 3:38.39 and qualified for the B-final.
•    Men’s kayak single 1000m B-Final: Lovemore won his race in 3:27.94, which would have placed him fourth in the A-final, and he took 9th place overall.

Cycling

•    Men’s keiren, first round heats: Jean Spies finished 6th in his heat and advanced to the repechage.
•    Men’s keiren, repechage: Jean Spies finished 5th in his heat and didn’t progress to the quarter-finals.

Golf  women’s individual, final round 

•    T13th 285 Ashleigh Buhai 68, 73, 74, 70 (3-under).
•    T44th 299 Paula Reto 78, 73, 76, 72 (11-over). 

- SAnews.gov.za
 

nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 11:43

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Mia Le Roux wins Miss South Africa

Location: News

Mia Le Roux wins Miss South Africa

Twenty-eight year-old Mia Le Roux has won the Miss South Africa title at glitzy event held at the Sun Bet Arena in Pretoria.

According to the Miss South Africa website, Le Roux she was born in Sasolburg, Free State and raised in Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape. 

“She is a marketing manager, model and part-time B Com Marketing student. She was diagnosed with profound hearing loss at the age of one and her community rallied behind her to give her the gift of hearing; inspiring her desire to make a positive impact and break barriers. She describes herself as resilient, dedicated, graceful and kind,” the website said.

In a post on Saturday night on the social media platform X, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie said: “Congratulations to our South African Queen Mia le Roux. I know you will represent us well at Miss Universe.”

The Miss South Africa pageant describes itself as a leadership platform for ambitious young South African women. 

“Through a pageantry process, contestants receive world-renowned coaching in addition to advanced networking, business and life skills. Shaped into brand ambassadors for our country, they become champions of women’s rights, thought leaders and savvy career women who inspire other young South Africans to fulfil their potential, recognise their self-worth and find their place in the world,” the website said. - SAnews.gov.za 

nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 12:03

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Parliament committed to advancing gender equality

Location: News

Parliament committed to advancing gender equality

As South Africa commemorates Women’s Month, Parliament has reaffirmed its commitment to the ongoing programme for greater women empowerment, emancipation and development, and continues to fight all forms of violence against women.

“Parliament will continue to enhance its oversight to ensure the effective implementation of legislation and policies to promote and protect the constitutionally enshrined rights of women in society,” Parliament’s Presiding Officers, led by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, said in a joint statement.

The Presiding Officers made these remarks ahead Women’s Day, which was celebrated under the theme: "Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom Towards Women’s Development". 

This year’s commemoration of Women’s Day marked 68 years to the day since 20 000 women of diverse backgrounds from across South Africa marched on the Union Buildings to protest against the extension of pass laws to women.

The women presented a petition against the carrying of passes by women. 

The Presiding Officers reflected on the country’s progress over the last 30 years of democracy towards greater gender equity and inclusivity. Parliament has passed laws that have significantly improved the lives of women.

“These legislative efforts have focused on promoting gender equality, protecting women's rights, and ensuring their participation in all aspects of society, from the workplace to the political arena. 

“Parliament has also reinforced its commitment to combating gender-based violence by passing laws designed to enhance protection for victims and ensure justice for survivors. These advancements mark significant strides towards a more just and equitable society.

“The democratic dividend has been felt by many, as our women have become makers of history as leaders in government, Parliament and legislatures, the judiciary, and the private sector. Notably, among them is Justice Mandisa Maya, the first woman appointed as Chief Justice in the country. We welcome and applaud this historic milestone,” the Presiding Officers said.

READ | Cabinet congratulates Justice Maya on her appointment as Chief Justice

This year also marks the 70th anniversary of the adoption of the 1954 Women’s Charter by the founding conference of the Federation of South African Women (FSAW). 

The Charter called for, among other things, the enfranchisement of men and women of all races; equal opportunities in employment; equal pay for equal work; equal rights concerning property, marriage and children; and the removal of all laws and customs that denied women such equality.

While the Presiding Officers reflected on the progress made in uplifting women over the last 30 years, they also acknowledged the challenges that persist.

“In celebrating these milestones and advances made in the pursuit of women’s emancipation during the last 30 years of our democracy, we remain conscious that much more needs to be done to achieve a non-sexist, non-racial, democratic and prosperous South Africa. 

“We must do more, be more vigilant, and guard against the scourge threatening the gains of progress made for our women. This responsibility is a shared one for government, Parliament and every South African,” the Presiding Officers said. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 10:10

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Government prepares for G20 Presidency and Summit

Location: News

Government prepares for G20 Presidency and Summit

Preparations are ongoing for South Africa’s Group of 20 (G20) Presidency and the hosting of the G20 Summit in 2025.

South Africa is expected to take over the presidency of the G20 from December 1 this year.

This is according to Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who briefed members of the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.

“An Inter-Ministerial Committee has been assigned the responsibility to organise this event on behalf of government and South Africans.

“South Africa will continue to use opportunities to lead and host international forums such as the G20 to focus global attention to the development challenges confronting Africa and the countries of the global South,” Ntshavheni said on Thursday.

READ | President Ramaphosa, President Biden commit to deepening relations

Furthermore, Cabinet has endorsed the country’s candidature to the following multilateral bodies:

• The candidacy of Yvette van der Merwe for the President of the Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) at elections to be held in France in October 2024. South Africa has a bid for re-election to the Human Rights Council for 2026-2028.

• South Africa seeks the re-election of its candidates, Professor Frans Jacobus Viljoen to the UN Human Rights Advisory Committee for the period 2025-2027, at elections scheduled for October 2024 in New York, USA.

• South Africa is also seeking terms on the UN’s Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) in 2025 and the Commission for Social Development in 2025. Elections for both bodies will take place in April 2025.

• South Africa will seek elections to the UN Security Council for a two-year term for the period 2031-2032, when it will be the turn of Southern Africa. - SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 12:48

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Call for women ownership in media sector

Location: News

Call for women ownership in media sector

While government policies have enabled the participation of women in the media sector, Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Director of Media Relations, Tshegofatso Modubu, has called for an in depth look at the ownership and control by women in the media space.

“In terms of shattering the glass ceiling with the 30 years of democracy, we are seeing women get into the operational space and a bit more into the managerial space. We need to think about ownership and control of media in terms of women,” Modubu said on Thursday.

She was speaking at a panel discussion themed “30 Years of Women Excellence in the Community Media Sector” hosted by the GCIS, together with the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) in Pretoria.

Reflecting on the 30 Years of Women Excellence in Community Media Sector, Modubu noted that since 1994, freedom of expression has expanded. 

“We have done a lot as a country in terms of catching up on freedom of expression, on issues of plurality in the media sector and ensuring that the space is opened [up] to women.

“If you think about the era of apartheid when there was a lot of censorship, and certain voices were not allowed to speak, the media was slightly controlled because there were some newspapers that were aligned to the agenda of the regime.

“Since 1994, the media landscape has expanded, and it has been able to keep up with technological developments. We have a thriving convergent media. We see our media being challenged to move from print into the digital space because of the convergence.”

Modubu highlighted that through the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA), government is providing support to for those who want to develop community and small commercial media.

Through interventions such as the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and the Preferential Procurement Policy, government is also promoting the participation of women in any sector of society. 

“We see women being in the forefront of journalism in this country. Growing up, we would see newsreaders, which was what was designated for them. We have seen women go into talk show hosting, we have seen women become political journalists and being at the forefront [of journalism].

“There is a strong move to get women into boards because that is where decisions are made. Media companies have boards and women are not participating in those spaces.

“The chief executive officers … women are not playing in that space. These are some of the things we need to think about while we celebrate the strides that have been made,” she explained.

In addition, Modubu welcomed the move by the South African National Editors' Forum (SANEF) to appoint Nwabisa Makunga as Chairperson of the forum.

Makunga is leading a team responsible for representing those who are responsible for telling stories and representing the aspirations and wishes of the population.

“We have women editors in print and broadcast media, SANEF has the second women occupying the position of chairperson. All of this has been enabled by the policies that government has put into place. 

“Our responsibility, as people who work in the space of policy making, is to ensure that those policies work, and they work for practitioners within the media space. There are challenges such as the cyberbullying of women, harassment and facilitated technological gender-based violence against women. 

“Those are the challenges that we have to think about and how we can create laws and policies to change that,” Modubu said.

READ | Dialogue to assess women’s impact in the community media
- SAnews.gov.za
 

nosihle
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 13:36

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Government speaks against GBV, elder abuse

Location: News

Government speaks against GBV, elder abuse

Government has strongly condemned the heinous acts of violence against women, which continue to plague communities. 

“This abhorrent abuse of the elderly and the continued scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in the country will not be tolerated,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said on Thursday.

Recently, an appalling incident involving a 101-year-old pensioner in Zaaiplaas, outside Jane Furse in Limpopo, was reported. The elderly woman was allegedly raped by a 27-year-old man, an act of unimaginable cruelty that left her with an open wound to her head.

“This is one of many cases of GBVF in the country, and this kind of violence, especially against the most vulnerable members of our society will never be accepted. Those who commit such despicable crimes will face the full might of the law,” said the GCIS.

Government will continue to implement and strengthen measures aimed at protecting all citizens, and communities are urged to work with law enforcement to create a safer environment for all. 

The public is urged to report any form of violence to a police station or by call the crime stop number on 08600 10111. 

Alternatively, report using the MySAPS App. 

“Let us all play our part in ending GBVF by stopping it when we see it. Citizens can also call the 24-hour GBV helpline on 0800 428 428 if they or someone they know needs assistance or SMS HELP to 31531,” said the GCIS.

Government is making progress in establishing dedicated desks at police stations in GBVF hotspots. The desks have police officers, who are specifically trained to provide victim-centred assistance and support. 

Members of the public can also make use of Thuthuzela Care Centres, which are one-stop facilities that offer free counselling, medical examination and investigating officers, among other things. 

Citizens are urged to support survivors in their journey towards healing. 

“Together, we can build a society where no one lives in fear, and where the dignity of every individual is respected and upheld,” the GCIS said. – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 15:39

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Lace Up for Fun at Clearwater Mall’s 10th Annual 10km Race & 5km Fun Run!

Location: MyPR

It’s that time of year again… time to bring your running shoes out of Winter retirement! Clearwater Mall, in partnership with the Panorama Running Club, is hosting their 10th Annual 10km Race & 5km Fun Run, set to take place on Saturday, 24 August 2024. This event promises to be a memorable day for families …

Read moreLace Up for Fun at Clearwater Mall’s 10th Annual 10km Race & 5km Fun Run!

Africa’s Energy Sector to Litigate Banks and Financiers for Financial Apartheid in Oil and Gas Sector

Location: News
African Energy Chamber

In recent years, several Western banks and financial institutions have implemented policies aimed at reducing support for fossil fuel projects, especially in Africa. This has led to a sharp decline in investment in the continent's oil and gas industry, a sector that is crucial for its economic future and energy needs. The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org) argues that these institutions are practicing “financial apartheid,” arguing that while similar projects receive support in Europe, Africa's high-cost energy projects are being neglected.

The decline in investment is already having a noticeable impact, exacerbated by global shifts towards cleaner energy and prioritizing of ESG practices. Major international oil companies are reducing their presence in Africa. For instance, Equinor has withdrawn from offshore exploration in South Africa and ExxonMobil has exited a deep-water oil prospect in Ghana. This decline is contributing to a bleak outlook for Africa's energy sector.

“As the international community moves to boycott investments in the African energy sector, African people and African development stand to suffer,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “The role of oil in Africa's energy and economic future is apparent, and consequently, should be defended as Western elites move to disrupt African progress.”

The broader implications of financial divestment are profound. Many African governments rely on fossil fuels as a cost-effective means to alleviate energy poverty and boost state revenues. However, the increasing pressure on financial institutions to cut funding for high-carbon projects creates uncertainty about the future of Africa's energy sector.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has added to these challenges with its calls to cease funding for oil and gas projects, highlighting a disparity: while natural gas is considered a ‘green' energy source for Europe, it does not receive the same treatment in Africa. According to Ayuk, “The IEA has lost its relevance and its authority.” Originally focused on managing oil supply disruptions, the IEA now prioritizes policies aimed at achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Its 2019 projection that no new investments in oil, gas, or coal are needed if the world continues on this path has been particularly controversial.

Several key African projects are at risk due to the withdrawal of financial support. Significant initiatives like TotalEnergies' Mozambique LNG project, ExxonMobil's Rovuma LNG project, Nigeria's Train 7 LNG expansion, Senegal's Sangomar oil field, Uganda's Tilenga project and the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) require substantial financing to advance.

Despite these setbacks, some projects are progressing. TotalEnergies is advancing its $20 billion Mozambique LNG project, aiming to develop the Golfinho and Atum fields with a production capacity of 12.88 million tonnes per year. Eni's Coral South FLNG project in Mozambique has achieved a production capacity of 3.4 million tonnes per year. Additionally, the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) LNG project, which started gas production in November 2022, is being developed by bp, Kosmos Energy and the national oil companies of Senegal and Mauritania. This project includes an FLNG facility with an initial capacity of 2.5 million tonnes per year.

Meanwhile Nigeria's Train 7 project, an expansion of the existing NLNG facility on Bonny Island, aims to boost production by 8 million tonnes per year, bringing the total to about 30 million tonnes per year. This development is crucial for Nigeria's growing population and its ability to meet its energy needs.

However, delays persist. The Tanzania LNG project, involving Equinor and Shell, is stalled due to proposed government changes. UTM Offshore's FLNG project in Nigeria, initially planned for 2023, has been postponed. Additionally, the EACOP faces significant criticism from financiers and environmental groups, complicating its development and financing.

Namibia, experiencing heightened interest from recent oil discoveries, is facing delays with the Kudu Conventional Gas Development. The Kudu Gas Project, an offshore initiative, has faced setbacks related to financing and project development challenges. As a result, the project is still pending FID and anticipated to commence production by 2026.

“Today, African Energy Poverty numbers are skyrocketing. Nine hundred million Africans lack access to clean cooking technologies, while 600 million lack access to electricity, most of them women. African families are facing high energy cost and inflation is going up,” Ayuk emphasizes. “It is shocking that financial institutions that do business in Africa continue to practice financial apartheid by cutting off capital and financing to oil and gas companies operating in Africa because of climate concerns. These same institutions fund gas development in Europe, where natural gas is deemed green and a fossil fuel for Africans.”

The disparity in financing not only undermines Africa's ability to harness its natural resources for its development but also perpetuates a cycle of energy deprivation. The AEC urges a re-evaluation of this approach and calls on global financiers to support Africa's energy projects, recognizing their critical role in advancing economic development, enhancing energy security, and improving living standards across the continent.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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African Energy Chamber
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Kicking Off Change: Girls’ Soccer Fun Day and Cup Tournament to Tackle GBVF

Location: MyPR

Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and violence against children are deeply intertwined issues that demand urgent attention. Recognizing this, Masimanyane Women’s Rights International is thrilled to announce the launch of the Ibhola Ekhatywayo Ngamantombazana (Girls’ Soccer) project, a dynamic initiative that harnesses the power of girls’ soccer to combat GBVF and build stronger, more cohesive …

Read moreKicking Off Change: Girls’ Soccer Fun Day and Cup Tournament to Tackle GBVF

President Ramaphosa to address National Women’s Day Commemoration

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa will tomorrow, Friday, 9 August 2024, officiate the National Women's Day Commemoration hosted by the Khâi-Ma Municipality at Pofadder in Namakwa District of the Northern Cape.

The President will address the national commemoration of Women's Day under the theme "Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom Towards Women's Development" at the Denis Nel Stadium in Pofadder.

The national event marks 68 years to the day since 20 000 women of diverse backgrounds from across South Africa marched to the Union Buildings to protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women.

During 30 years of democracy, South Africa has made significant strides in advancing gender equality in all domains of society, including economic empowerment of women.

The Women's Charter advances women's economic programmes through targeted reforms that drive equality. 

Women's Day 2024 is the first national day led by the Government of National Unity and takes place in a rural community as part of including all South Africans in national events and placing a focus on the achievements and needs of women in all corners of the country.

President Ramaphosa will ahead of leading the commemoration at the Denis Nel Stadium tour a services-on-wheels exhibition of government services that will be provided to citizens attending the national day, as well as a trade expo featuring, small medium and micro enterprises led by women entrepreneurs in the Northern Cape Province. 

Details of the National Women's Day Commemoration are:
Date: Friday, 09 August 2024
Time: 10:00
Venue: Dennis Nel Stadium,Poffader, Northern Cape

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read morePresident Ramaphosa to address National Women’s Day Commemoration

Cabinet congratulates Justice Maya on her appointment as Chief Justice

Location: News

Cabinet congratulates Justice Maya on her appointment as Chief Justice

As the country celebrates Women’s Month, Cabinet has congratulated Justice Mandisa Maya on her trail blazing appointment as South Africa’s first female incoming Chief Justice.

Maya, the first South African woman to lead the Constitutional Court, was appointed as Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa with effect from 1 September 2024 by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Maya previously served with distinction as the President of the Supreme Court of Appeal since 2017 and was the first woman to hold that position.

Briefing the media on the outcomes of the ordinary Cabinet meeting on Thursday, Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said the significance of Maya’s appointment can be best understood with context.

“According to the International Association of Women Judges, in 1994, there were approximately 165 judges, 160 of whom were white men, three were black men, and two were white women; no black women were judges at that time.

“As of February 2023, there are 253 judges, comprised of which 113 are women, broken down to 32% black women plus 13% white women making up a total of 45% women representation. Additionally, the remaining 140 male judges are comprised of 39% black men and 17% white men,” Ntshavheni said.

READ | CGE congratulates Justice Maya on appointment as Chief Justice

Call to participate in Women’s Month activities

Meanwhile, Cabinet has invited citizens to take part in events planned to take place in various parts of the country in celebration of the annual Women’s Month.

READ | Chikunga reflects on 30 Years of Democracy as Women's Month gets underway 

Ntshavheni said the events also include a trade expo, interactive dialogues and showcase opportunities available for women in diverse sectors that are instrumental in narrowing gender disparities.

South Africa will commemorate the 2024 National Women’s Day tomorrow at the Dennis Nel Stadium in Poffader in the Northern Cape under the theme: “Celebrating 30 years of democracy towards Women’s Development”.

“This year’s celebration of Women’s Month will take stock of progress made on socio-economic empowerment of women since the advent of democracy and the achievements of the objectives of the Women’s Charter.

“Our nation pays tribute to the more than 20 000 women who marched to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956, in protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women,” Ntshavheni said.

READ | President Ramaphosa to address Women’s Day commemoration
– SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 14:08

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Africa Tech Festival 2024 Showcases Women Tech and Telecoms Leaders, Aims to Positively Impact Africa’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Gender Gap

Location: News

Africa Tech Festival
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When the 27th edition of Africa Tech Festival (https://AfricaTechFestival.com) kicks off on 12 November at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in South Africa, the spotlight will be on the exceptional women shaping the future of technology and telecoms in Africa. With August marking the celebration of Women's Month in the host country, the event will proudly showcase many of the women leaders driving growth and innovation across the sector.

Taking place from 12 to 14 November, Africa Tech Festival 2024 incorporates AfricaCom, AfricaTech, AfricaIgnite, and The AI Summit Cape Town, which will welcome a cumulative 15,000 visitors, more than 400 speakers, and over 300 exhibitors as it explores enterprise tech innovation and disruption across key sectors such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud and data centres, and green ICT.

As the continent's leading platform for technology innovators, specialists, and thought leaders, Africa Tech Festival 2024's agenda includes several prominent female leaders who are making a significant contribution to the industry. Their expertise and insights will provide invaluable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities within the sector.

Key speakers include:

“Africa Tech Festival provides the continent's tech ecosystems with a unique platform from which to collaborate and drive positive change. Building a more inclusive, sustainable world means uniting the world's most inspirational founders, business leaders, policymakers, investors, and rising stars, so we are delighted to see so many inspirational female tech executives featured in this year's speaker line-up. As we celebrate Women's Month, we look forward to their unique insights and contributions,” said Informa's James Williams, Event Director of Africa Tech Festival.  

Organisers are confident that the presence of these female industry leaders at Africa Tech Festival will provide impetus to efforts by the industry to be more inclusive, highlighting the opportunities available to women in various sectors, providing insights for women wishing to embark on tech and telecoms careers, and showcasing the successes and contributions of women making their mark within the industry.

“Events such as Africa Tech Festival provide a platform for women to network and to gain exposure to more accomplished women in tech. These role models provide inspiration to women starting out in their careers that they can break the glass ceiling,” said Funke Opeke, CEO, MainOne, who will be participating in the ‘Big Tech and Telcos: Collaborating on Digital Infrastructure Investment' keynote panel.

Speaking on the importance of mentorship for women entering the industry, Mary Mahuma, CIO, Southern Africa, Philip Morris said, “As a female industry leader, I see mentorship as a necessary reminder of our social responsibility to be empathetic, driven, inclusive, and resilient leaders. I am fortunate to have a female mentor who has significantly influenced my leadership style, thinking, and understanding of corporate dynamics and culture.” Mary will be a panellist on the ‘Nurturing Talent and Bridging Skills Gap: Building a Future-Ready Workforce in the Age of AI' panel.

“Women's contributions are significantly transforming the telecoms and technology landscape in Africa through innovation, leadership, and advocacy. Their contributions are not only advancing the industry but also driving social and economic development across the continent. By fostering innovation, supporting entrepreneurship, and advocating for inclusive policies, these women are transforming the tech landscape in Africa,” added Motunrayo Opayinka, Founder and CEO, Womenovate. Motunrayo will share her insights on the ‘Educational Equity Through AI: Tools for Advancing Education in Underserved Areas' panel. 

In addition, EQL:LOUNGE creates a space for women in tech to connect directly, and engage in meaningful dialogue, with high-calibre speakers in intimate settings hosting panel discussions, keynote addresses, and fireside chats. Taking place the evening before the event opens, InspiringFifty Africa is a prestigious awards ceremony focusing on recognising the top fifty women making significant strides within the African tech ecosystem.

Register now to secure your spot and join us in shaping the future of technology in Africa: https://AfricaTechFestival.com

In a special Women's Day offer, Africa Tech Festival is offering a 15% discount on Platinum Passes until midnight on 16 August. Passes can be purchased via this link, using the code NWD15 - https://apo-opa.co/3SAYyFh

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Tech Festival.

About Africa Tech Festival: 
Africa Tech Festival, including anchor events AfricaCom, AfricaTech, AfricaIgnite & The AI Summit Cape Town is part of the Informa Tech Connecting Africa event series.  

A vibrant celebration of Africa's diverse community of tech champions, Africa Tech Festival is the largest tech and digital connectivity conference and exhibition in Africa, attracting hundreds of exhibitors, more than 400 speakers and more than 15,000 delegates. 

Read moreAfrica Tech Festival 2024 Showcases Women Tech and Telecoms Leaders, Aims to Positively Impact Africa’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Gender Gap

Strong female leadership will have a positive impact on the South African narrative

Location: MyPR

Despite the fact that South Africa is going through a significant political transition, our democracy remains a shining beacon of hope on a continent where a democratic process is desperately needed in many countries. This cannot have been achieved without the sacrifices made by strong political leaders who have fought hard to build our democracy. …

Read moreStrong female leadership will have a positive impact on the South African narrative

Dialogue to assess women’s impact in the community media

Location: News

Dialogue to assess women’s impact in the community media

As part of Women’s Month celebrations, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) together with the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) will host a panel discussion on 30 years of women excellence in community media.

Themed “30 Years of Women Excellence in Community Media Sector,” Thursday’s panel discussion under the Annual Women in Media and Communication flagship project, brings together women in the community media sector to share their experiences and reflect on how they have overcome certain barriers and progressed to make a success of their careers.

The project aims to advance issues affecting women in the media and community media sector since 2019.

The 2024 Women’s Month coincides with the country's commemoration of 30 years of freedom and democracy, making this year's Women's Month an important juncture for collective reflection on how the country has empowered and advanced the rights of women in our democratic journey.

This year’s Women’s Month commemoration held under the theme: “Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy Towards Women’s Development,” marks the 68th anniversary of the historic march, where more than 20 000 women marched to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956 in protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women.

The panel discussion will be held at Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria Campus. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK
Wed, 08/07/2024 - 12:49

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Africa’s leading Venture Capital firm Founders Factory Africa rebrands to 54 Collective

Location: Business
54 Collective

Today, leading African venture capital firm, Founders Factory Africa (FFA), has announced its rebrand and name change to 54 Collective (https://54Collective.VC/), evolving its business model to better support transformative technology ventures across the continent through catalytic capital and value-add support through its Venture Success Platform.

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54 Collective, builds on its exceptional track record of investing in and scaling early-stage ventures in Africa. The new name, 54 Collective, reflects the firm's ambitious pan-African vision, aspiring to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses to serve all 54 African countries.

The firm is a commercial-first investor and embeds impact in everything it does. 54 Collective invests in ventures from idea to Pre-Series A stage by offering catalytic capital, and value-add support through its Venture Success Platform.

"Our catalytic capital and value-add support to founders, through our Venture Success Platform, signifies our evolution and ongoing mission to support entrepreneurs across Africa and enable them to build without boundaries to drive commercial and impact returns. Our name change to 54 Collective communicates our continued commitment to African founders. We are more supportive than ever of unlocking opportunities for entrepreneurs and ensuring a level playing field for youth and women founders,” commented 54 Collective CEO Bongani Sithole.

Investment strategy

54 Collective, offers equity and non-dilutive capital up to a total of $500k, enabling founders to scale their ventures across the continent. To break barriers of access, female founders receive an additional $150k, to their male counterparts, in the form of a non-dilutive capital. 

The Venture Success Platform is made up of a team of highly experienced venture specialists who provide tailored support. This is in the form of product, growth, commercial relationships, business strategy, talent, technology and data to build ventures for scale. The team also ensures that founders have access to the right funding by preparing them for investor readiness, investor access, fundraising strategies, unlocking debt and impact capital. The Venture Success Platform empowers founders to succeed globally by facilitating networking and community building opportunities.

This unique combination of significant funding and comprehensive support distinguishes 54 Collective as the only Venture Capital firm in Africa offering early-stage founders with the highest amount of catalytic capital and support from the largest Africa-based venture capital team with over 70 staff members in Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria and the UK.

The firm has evolved from investing only in the Agtech, Fintech, and Healthtech sectors to being sector-agnostic in its investments, supporting more founders across many sectors on the continent. ​​54 Collective helps founders navigate complex challenges to achieve commercial success and make an impact on the continent through economic growth and job creation.

In 2023, Founders Factory Africa was named one of the top venture capital investors in Africa, with an active portfolio of over 50 ventures across 10 countries. To date, the firm has supported more than 70 ventures across Africa and helped its portfolio startups to raise nearly $140 million in follow-on capital.

A future of empowerment

With seven of the world's fastest-growing economies in Africa, the continent's venture capital sector is rapidly expanding, with $6 billion invested annually. However, this represents less than 1 percent of global venture funding, indicating a significant unmet need for smart capital.

“We are pursuing opportunistic investments in different sectors across the continent where there are uniquely large opportunities for startups to scale and create sustainable impact in these sectors. Our goal is to invest in 105 startups across Africa in the next five years, enabling entrepreneurs to provide solutions to the continent's biggest challenges and transforming lives and industries,” concluded Sithole.

The firm is well on its way to achieving many of its five-year goals which range from enhanced financial inclusion, improved healthcare access, and creating dignified and fulfilling work to creating a gender forward portfolio. 54 Collective is targeting a portfolio where 50% or more of its startups are founded by women. Currently, from the 17 investments made between January 2023 and July 2024 in its portfolio, 45% of them are founded by women. The firm's investments are also creating social economic impact in the wider economy. For example, Asaak, a vehicle asset financing company has improved financial inclusion for over 11,000 bodaboda drivers. An impact study uncovered that 79% of these drivers improved their quality of life significantly and 80% increased their income after receiving credit from Asaak.

Speaking on the significance of the brand evolution and future ambitions, 54 Collective's Executive Chairman and UTOPIA CEO Roo Rogers said, “54 Collective is a powerful economic and social force in the African economy. It is anchored with strong roots on the continent and exceptional network and reputation across the globe. Together with our sister funds, we continue our mission to  redistribute investment and knowledge pathways towards a more inclusive, relevant, and equitable future for the Global South.”

54 Collective's vision is to create a future where African entrepreneurship drives generational progress and prosperity across the continent. The firm's new name, catalytic capital, and value-add Venture Success Platform offering, marks a new era for the venture capital ecosystem. 54 Collective is redefining investing across Africa, enabling its founders to build without boundaries and solve some of Africa's biggest challenges.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of 54 Collective.

For more information please contact:
Adam Wakefield - 54 Collective, Managing Editor
Tel: +27820490381
Email: adam.wakefield@foundersfactory.co

OR

David Mbai
Tel:  +254716811083
Email: 54COmms@webershandwick.com

54 Collective social media handles:
Instagram: 54collective_vc
X: 54collective_vc
​LinkedIn and Facebook: 54 Collective VC

About 54 Collective:
54 Collective  is a Venture Capital firm dedicated to redefining investing across Africa. By offering catalytic capital and value-add tailored support through its Venture Success Platform, 54 Collective empowers entrepreneurs to build without boundaries. With a presence across Africa, 54 Collective leverages local expertise to help startups scale and achieve commercial success while creating systemic social and economic impact.

Join us in this exciting journey of transforming Africa's entrepreneurial landscape. For more information, visit (https://54Collective.VC/) https://54Collective.VC/ and become a part of 54 Collective's (https://54Collective.VC/) mission to help early-stage African startups grow and thrive and ‘Build without Boundaries' to empower Africa's next generation of innovators and leaders.

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