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| SA COMMITTED TO ENHANCING INTRA-AFRICAN TRADE |
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| President Jacob Zuma says South Africa remains committed to boosting intra-African trade, which will be equitably beneficial for all participating countries. |
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"The overriding imperative of the Continental Free Trade Area (CFTA) is to boost intra-African trade and promote market integration and industrialisation in Africa. A bigger market will improve the prospects of African countries to attract investment and promote the development of regional value chains, thus increasing the potential of diversifying the economic base.
"We believe that this will contribute positively to economic growth and development in Africa," said the President in response to a Parliamentary question.
President Zuma was asked by the United Democratic Movement's Chief Whip, Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, if South Africa had taken any steps to ensure that member countries in the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa would receive the same revenue they derive from the current free trade agreement (TFTA), given the decision by African countries to establish the CFTA by October 2017.
President Zuma said negotiations towards establishing the CFTA built on the trade liberalisation progress and achievements of the regional economic communities.
The CFTA will bring together 54 African countries with a combined population of more than one billion people and a combined gross domestic product of more than $3,4 trillion.
"The aim is to enhance intra-regional trade and ensure that African countries trade with each other on better terms than third countries.
"A free trade area implies granting parties thereto preferential access in terms of tariff duties, which has implications for revenue," said the President.
He said each negotiating party made its own sovereign assessment about the benefits of entering into the CFTA negotiations and whether they potentially outweighed the negative considerations that arose.
The President said it was not possible to predict with any degree of precision how the CFTA would impact on the revenue base of the negotiating state parties. This, he said, would depend on the export profile of each negotiating state party to the CFTA.
The overriding imperative of the CFTA is to boost intra-Africa trade, and promote market integration and industrialisation in Africa. – Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| MINISTER NKOANA-MASHABANE CO-CHAIRS SECOND JOINT COMMISSION FOR COOPERATION (JCC) IN LUSAKA |
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| This JCC took place prior to President Jacob Zuma's State Visit to the Republic of Zambia on 12 and 13 October 2017, where he met with His Excellency, President Edgar Lungu. |
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On 11 October 2017, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, co-chaired the Second Session of the JCC with her Zambian counterpart, Minister Harry Kalaba of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Zambia, in Zambia, Lusaka.
The Agreement to establish a Joint Commission for the operationalisation of the 1996 General Agreement was signed on 18 October 2005. The Joint Commission was inaugurated in Pretoria, South Africa, on 7 December 2016.
The JCC is a structured bilateral mechanism, which meets annually and avails an opportunity for the two countries to deepen cooperation and furthermore explore new areas of mutual benefit. There is a standing Mid-Term Review under the JCC, which monitors and ensures the implementation of decisions and signed agreements.
The areas of cooperation between the two countries cover a wide scope of fields which, among others, include agriculture, energy, mineral resources, trade, finance, defence, environment, public enterprises, science and technology, health, labour, arts and culture and tourism.
New areas of cooperation are being explored and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will be initiated in these areas, namely: ICT, broadcasting, higher and basic education, youth affairs, sport and recreation, small business development, public works and local government.
Cooperation between the two countries has been growing. There are more than 20 agreements/MoUs signed between the two countries. Bilateral trade between South Africa and Zambia has increased substantially since 1994.
The total exports to Zambia in 2016 amounted to R30,5 billion and total imports from Zambia amounted to R2,7 billion, thus firmly placing Zambia among South Africa's top three trading partners on the continent. |
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| AU NEEDS ACTIVE PARTICIPATION TO ADVANCE AFRICA |
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| The African Union (AU) needs solid support from its member states and organs to help the continent achieve political and economic integration. |
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On Monday, 9 October 2017, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, said the commitment and enthusiasm shown by members of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) was encouraging, and a sure sign that Africa would meet its development targets.
The Minister was addressing the Fifth Ordinary Session of the PAP, which was attended by member states of the AU. The session opened in Midrand, Gauteng, under the theme 'Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments with the Youth".
It is an opportunity for member states to discuss issues surrounding peace and security on the continent, as well as good governance. The session, which will end on 20 October, will see member states debating the common position on AU/European Union (EU) agreements, reports of the African Peer Review Mechanism, as well as resolutions and recommendations from the 2017 Speakers' Conference.
Opening the session on behalf of President Jacob Zuma, Minister Nkoana-Mashabane said it was the member states' collective responsibility to ensure that PAP was beneficial to African citizens.
She views PAP as an important organ that enables countries to ensure citizens participate in democracy and governance.
"We are confident that the Pan-African Parliament will contribute to this policy objective, both in terms of the Pan-African Parliament's substantive mandate and by providing opportunities to the youth of our continent," said Minister Nkoana-Mashabane.
However, Africa's developmental agenda can only be achieved within peaceful, stable and favourable conditions. To this end, the Minister reaffirmed South Africa's commitment to peace and security on the continent.
"Our involvement in peacekeeping missions and contributions to efforts aimed at post-conflict reconstruction and development are evidence of the commitment we make to achieve sustainable development, on the continent," she said.
The Minister went on to also reassure that South Africa remained committed to strengthening the continental bodies and its organs and mechanisms aimed at integration, sustainable development and attainment of peace and security. – Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| DIRCO’S ANNUAL REPORT TO PARLIAMENT SHOWS SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENTS |
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| The report provides details of a number of significant improvements in the department's administrative and financial management, which have led to the Auditor-General issuing an unqualified audit opinion. |
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In terms of the Programme of Action for the Delivery Agreement for Outcome 11: Creating a Better South Africa and Contributing to a Better and Safer Africa in a Better World, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation has actively participated in the International Cooperation, Trade and Security (ICTS) Cluster and consistently submitted quarterly reports to the cluster as well as the Ministerial Implementation Forum.
The quarterly reports reflected the achievements and engagements of the department at various levels. Reporting has been consistent, regular and of the required standard, giving effect to the progress made by the department in carrying out its strategic mandate. There are various management structures and committees in place with terms of reference and meet on a regular basis to contribute to good corporate governance.
The department also has fully functioning assurance structures such as Risk Management and Internal Audit. These structures are supported by the Risk Management Committee and Audit Committee, both chaired by independent (external) chairpersons.
"The department is proud to report that both committees have contributed positively in achieving this substantial progress, especially in the risk and audit management processes", said Minister Maite Nkoana Mashabane.
Having reviewed the department's implementation plan for audit issues raised in the previous year, the Auditor-General has expressed satisfaction that the matters have been adequately resolved.
The Auditor-General said: "The Accounting Officer [i.e. the Director-General of DIRCO] has made some progress in addressing the significant deficiencies in his oversight of financial and performance reporting, compliance and related internal controls."
The department is committed to continue to implement cost-containment measures to realise savings for the funding of priority projects in line with the Medium Term Strategic Framework. However, the department remains vulnerable to foreign exchange volatility, which necessitates a review of how the foreign operations are supported with regard to financial instruments that are available for the department to mitigate such in order to address future unauthorised expenditure that might occur. |
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| SOUTH AFRICA JOINS THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY IN CONDEMNING THE TERRORIST ATTACK ON A SHRINE IN JHAL MAGSI, PAKISTAN, ON 5 OCTOBER 2017 |
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| South Africa reiterates its stance that terrorism in any form and from whichever quarter cannot be condoned. |
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The South African Government condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the brutal killing of 20 worshipers and the injuring of over 25 people during an attack on a shrine in the Jhal Magsi district of Balochistan in Pakistan.
The Government of South Africa extends its deepest sympathies and sincere condolences to the Government and People of Pakistan and the families of the deceased. South Africa also wishes the injured a speedy recovery. |
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| DIRCO BRIEFS THE MEDIA ON IORA PREPARATIONS AND THE OUTCOMES OF THE BRICS MINISTERIAL MEETING |
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| South Africa will host the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Council of Ministers' Meeting from 14 to 18 October in Durban. |
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On Monday, 9 October 2017, the Deputy Director-General for Asia and Middle East in the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Professor Anil Sooklal, briefed the media on:
- South Africa's hosting of the 17th IORA Council of Ministers' Meeting from 14 to 18 October in Durban
- the outcomes of the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) Ministerial Meeting, held in New York on the sidelines of the 72nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly
- South Africa's hosting of the India, Brazil and South Africa (IBSA) Ministerial Meeting.
South Africa views IORA, comprising 21 member states and seven dialogue partners, as the pre-eminent organisation linking Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Australasia via the Indian Ocean. The association represents an important region for global trade and economic development, which is growing in stature and prominence, with South Africa being one of the leading member states. |
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| DIRCO HOSTS SEMINAR ON SOUTH AFRICA'S MEMBERSHIP OF THE WORLD FEDERATION FOR DEMOCRATIC YOUTH (WFDY) |
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| South Africa will be participating in the forthcoming 19th World Festival of Youth and Students (WFYS), which will be held in Sochi, Russia, from 14 to 22 October 2017. |
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On 6 October 2017, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) hosted a seminar on South Africa's membership of the WFDY.
The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), representing the country, is part of the International Organising Committee and will be sending a delegation of around 150 young people from the affiliate organisations, and also youth from other sectors of society i.e. civil society, education, sports, arts and culture, business, women and others.
The WFDY's main event is the WFYS, which is held every four years in different countries. The WFYS is a massive political and cultural celebration for peace and friendship between the youth of the world.
The objective of the festival is uniting the youth of the world for peace, solidarity and social transformation to create a world free of human rights abuses. The main characteristic of WFDY is its solidarity, peace and democracy.
The WFDY has members from 153 countries around the world. These members are youth and students political organisations whose nature and character embrace the universal principles of human solidarity, peace and democracy. Most of the past presidents and officials of this organisation and member organisations are leaders of government and industry in their respective countries.
South Africa has five affiliates to the WFDY: African National Congress Youth League, South African Student Congress, Young Communist League, South African Youth Council and NYDA.
South Africa hosted the 17th festival in 2010. The festival presented the youth and students of the country with an opportunity to interface with this important world programme. This year, South Africa is once again invited to participate in the 19th festival, which will be taking place from 14 to 22 October, in Sochi, Russia.
The idea of the seminar was provide an overview of South Africa's foreign policy and its international obligations, particularly to delegates who will be attending the festival in Russia. |
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| SA COMMITTED TO TREATING ASYLUM SEEKERS WITH DIGNITY |
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| Home Affairs Minister, Hlengiwe Mkhize, says the country's ports of entry remain open to asylum seekers, allowing them access to health services and education opportunities. |
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"In reaffirming our commitment to the rule of law and universal declaration of human rights, we also ensure that failed asylum seekers and illegal migrants are treated in a humane manner throughout the process of repatriating them to their countries of origin," the Minister said.
Speaking at the 68th Session of the Executive Committee of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Minister Mkhize said her department worked closely with partners like the International Red Cross, South African Human Rights Commission and advocacy groups, motivated by high standards of Ubuntu, which in essence recognises that all humanity is deserving of dignity.
"Government has invested in technology upgrades at refugee centres, starting with the busiest refugee centre located in the country's economic heartland, renamed after our own Nobel Laureate, Desmond Tutu, in Gauteng.
"This investment in technology upgrade has realised efficiencies and qualitative improvements in processing new asylum applications, which include paperless capturing of asylum claims, allowing self-services for existing asylum applicants wishing to extend permits where adjudication is still pending and booking terminals for persons seeking various services such as family joining," Minister Mkhize said.
According to the Minister, between 2006 and 2015, South Africa received over one million asylum applications, amounting to one third of the asylum applications received by the whole European Union as a bloc.
"All these applicants have been adjudicated at the first instance, while a significant number are awaiting finalisation of their appeals.
"Persons who are indefinite refugees are able to apply for permanent residence, which in turn paves the way for citizenship," the Minister said.
Between 2016 and June 2017, a total of 2 123 applications for permanent residency certification were considered and 924 received certification. – Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| MINISTER ZULU LEADS SMALL BUSINESS DELEGATION TO CHINA |
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| Minister Zulu officially opened the South African Exhibition Centre on Tuesday, 10 October 2017. The Minister and the South African delegation attended the Bank of China small and medium enterprises cross-border business match-making activity. |
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The Minister of Small Business Development, Lindiwe Zulu, led a delegation of small businesses and cooperatives from South Africa who were participating in this year's China International Small and Medium Enterprises Fair (CISMEF). South Africa co-hosted 2017 edition of CISMEF with China from 10 to 13 October 2017 in Guangzhou city, Guandong province.
The department brought to China over 30 enterprises from various sectors such as agro-processing, biodiesel production, jewellery manufacturing, engineering and infrastructure development, textile and fashion, farming, solar energy and tourism. CISMEF presents an opportunity to all participants to share experiences, network and learn from each other and to initiate business partnerships.
"I am confident that CISMEF will inspire these South African enterprises to grow their businesses and to enter the global market. I am confident that co-hosting CISMEF will help sustain the momentum of an entrepreneurial revolution that is currently underway in South Africa", said Minister Zulu.
The Department of Small Business Development sees CISMEF as a platform to unlock markets for small businesses and cooperatives. All enterprises need access to markets in order to become sustainable. It is important for aspirant entrepreneurs to understand market opportunities in order to run successful and sustainable businesses. |
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| DTI WELCOMES CATERPILLAR'S R1,3-BILLION INVESTMENT |
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| Trade and Industry Minister, Rob Davies, has commended Caterpillar for its commitment to source components and related services in South Africa worth a total estimated value of R1,3 billion. |
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The commitment is for a period of 10 years, in support of local enterprise and supplier development.
Caterpillar is a leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives.
"These agreements are also positive for the companies that participate in the Equity Equivalent Investment Programme (EEIP). I want to commend Caterpillar for embarking on this journey with us as partners to stimulate and grow the South African economy. I look forward to see these commitments being executed," said Minister Davies.
On Wednesday, 4 October, the company, together with the Department of Trade and Industry (dti), launched the largest-ever EEIP in the country at a ceremony at Barlow Park near Johannesburg.
Minister Davies said the company's commitment was one of its largest engagements in Africa to date. It is also part of the previously announced plan of Caterpillar, its independent dealers and the Caterpillar Foundation to invest more than $1 billion in countries throughout Africa over five years.
EEIP is a dti initiative where multinational companies are invited to participate and contribute positively towards B-BBEE in South Africa.
Caterpillar has been in South Africa since 1927, operating through independent dealer Barloworld Equipment. The company recently invested in a new 60 000 m² parts distribution centre in Johannesburg, which is improving customer service by expanding parts availability throughout the southern African region (including the islands of Mauritius, Madagascar and Reunion). – Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SA WILL SEND SIX BLACK RHINOS TO CHAD |
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| Environmental ministers from South Africa and the Republic of Chad have signed a memorandum which allows for the translocation of six black rhino from South Africa to Chad as part of an initiative to reintroduce rhino in the country. |
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The Minister of Environmental Affairs, Edna Molewa, and the Minister of Environment and Fisheries of the Republic of Chad, Ahmat Mbodou Mahamat, signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the field of Biodiversity Conservation and Management in Pretoria on Sunday, 8 October.
"We are taking another significant step forward towards realising the initial pledge that originated four years ago by President Jacob Zuma to President Idris Deby of translocating and reintroducing black rhinoceros to the Republic of Chad. The fulfillment of this will lay a sound foundation for cooperation between our countries," said Minister Molewa.
According to the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA), a team of experts from South Africa will visit Chad to assess the habitat, security and management suitability and associated ecological parameters as well as infrastructural readiness prior to the translocation of black rhinos to Zakouma National Park from South Africa, following which applicable logistical arrangements will also be put in place.
"This builds on a feasibility study of the proposed translocation undertaken by the IUCN SSC African Rhino Specialist Group in 2015," says DEA. Chad signed an agreement with African Parks Network (APN) which allows APN to manage the country's national parks.
"The MoU on Cooperation on the Reintroduction of Black Rhinoceros outlines broad areas of cooperation between the governments of Chad and South Africa," says DEA, adding that it focuses on the following:
- establishing viable and secure populations through the reintroduction of black rhinoceros in the Republic of Chad
- sourcing sustainable financial resources to secure and manage such rhinoceros populations
- building capacity and exchanging expertise in the management of rhinoceros in the field of rhinoceros security, veterinary matters, monitoring and research
- establishing bilateral custodianship arrangements for rhinoceros translocated between the parties.
Minister Molewa says that the signing of the two agreements "signifies that the relationship between our two countries on biodiversity and conservation is growing from strength to strength". – Source: www.news24.com |
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| SA, ALGERIA STRENGTHEN FOUNDATION FOR TRADE LINKS |
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| South Africa and Algeria are working towards building lasting economic partnerships. |
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Addressing a business forum that was held in Algiers in the North African country, South Africa's Ambassador to Algeria, Dennis Dlomo, said the two countries were working methodically to translate political partnerships into tangible actions in various areas of economic cooperation.
"Today is a manifestation of aspirations that we have had for a long time. The past three years have seen an increase in visits and engagements by South African business delegations to Algeria.
"This year, we have had several engagements; a sign that all interactions are positive, increasing in frequency and number, and the quality has also improved," said Ambassador Dlomo.
The Department of Trade and Industry (dti) led a delegation of local companies on a trade and investment mission. The mission served to promote South African products and service offerings, while creating partnerships between the business communities.
The Vice President of the International Relations of the Forum des Chefs d'enterprises, Mehdi Bendimerad, said while Algeria had outstanding diplomatic and political relations with South Africa, these relations had not yielded impressive results on the economic front.
"We call on South African companies to continue their efforts to intensify relations with Algerian companies. Our conviction is that partnerships can develop and be sustainable if direct contact is organised.
"Today's economic meeting takes place in a national context marked by the implementation of numerous reforms aimed at diversifying the Algerian market, and an opportunity for South African businesspeople to explore cooperation and partnerships," said Bendimerad. – Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SA, TURKEY COMMIT TO GROW TRADE AND INVESTMENT |
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| South Africa and Turkey have committed to strengthening trade and economic relations to increase two-way bilateral trade and investment. |
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The commitment was made on the last day of the Third Session of South Africa-Turkey Joint Economic Commission (JSE) that was addressed by Trade and Industry Minister, Rob Davies, and the Turkish Minister of National Education, Ishmet Yilmaz.
"We have noticed and welcomed the fact that in recent years, Turkey has been reaching out to the African continent. As a country, we are in a situation where we are growing far too slowly. What we need to do as the South Africa economy and also as part of the African continent is to diversify, move up the value chain and industrialise," Minister Davies said.
Minister Davies was pleased that bilateral trade between Turkey and South Africa continued to show a growing trend since the last JSE was held in Ankara in 2012.
Ministers Davies and Yilmaz pledged to work together to ensure maximum utilisation of initiatives aimed at promoting two-way trade between the countries.
These include enhancing direct contacts between the business communities of the two countries, and synchronising and identifying promotional activities to be held in each other's countries which present possible cooperation in mutual beneficial areas, with regard to exports and imports.
Initiatives also include encouraging the participation of relevant companies in fairs, trade exhibitions and conferences held in each other's countries.
During the session, the two countries also committed to redoubling their efforts to deepen investment by encouraging and supporting mutual investments through the exchange of business delegation visits in prioritised sectors and providing the necessary and possible support to investors.
Minister Davies said South Africa was also looking at the promotion of regional integration on the continent. – Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SKA SITE VISIT MARKS 20 YEARS OF SA-INDIA SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY COOPERATION |
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| This year, India and South Africa are celebrating two decades of science and technology collaboration in the areas of astronomy, astrophysics, biotechnology, policy studies, indigenous knowledge systems and energy technologies. |
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The countries have invested R90 million in more than 95 joint research projects and other programmes. The partnership provides South African researchers, students and scientists with access to Indian expertise and facilities.
The Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor, recently met her Indian counterpart, Harsh Vardhan, in Durban with the aim of extending their cooperation in science and technology.
As part of several activities planned to mark the occasion, the Department of Science and Technology accompanied Dr Vardhan and a delegation comprising scientists and policymakers during a site visit to the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) in the Northern Cape.
The SKA project is an international effort to build the world's largest radio telescope, with a square kilometre (one million square metres) of collecting area.
Minister Pandor host Dr Vardhan at a gala dinner in Durban where a number of the countries' joint projects were showcased. The countries also announced their joint call on product development in grassroots innovation. |
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| MINISTER XASA CONGRATULATES BLUE FLAG BEACHES |
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| The Minister of Tourism, Tokozile Xasa, has applauded the 44 beaches that have obtained full Blue Flag status along with 11 sustainable boats and seven marinas during a beach certification programme held at Dolphin Beach, Jeffreys Bay. |
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The Blue Flag Programme has been in operation since 1987 and, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, is the most well-known eco-label of its kind. It is an international annual award, which focuses on the environmental management of the coastline and coastal waters to help tourism growth and development.
Although it is a voluntary eco-label, it has become an international symbol of quality for beaches, boats and marinas that meet a standard of excellence in the areas of safety, amenities, cleanliness, environmental information and environmental management.
"We are re-awarding Blue Flag status to some of the beaches that lost their Blue Flag status in the 2016/17 season. I would like to attribute this achievement to the department's Blue Flag Beach Steward Project, which places young people on these beaches to maintain their Blue Flag standards," said Minister Xasa.
The Department of Tourism, in partnership with Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa, launched the Blue Flag Beach Steward Project in October 2016. It is a 28-month-long initiative aimed at training 200 youth from low-income, coastal households in the National Certificate in Environmental Education Training and Development Practices NQF 5 specialising in Tourism.
The beach stewards provide local member municipalities with adequate infrastructural support to maintain the required high standards of safety, environmental management, water quality and environmental education at Blue Flag sites, as well as assist other beaches to attain this prestigious status.
The Blue Flag Beach Steward Programme is part of the Coastal and Marine Tourism Implementation Plan, which is a focus area of Operation Phakisa's Oceans Economy. The plan envisions to grow a world-class and sustainable coastal and marine tourism destination that leverages South Africa's competitive advantage in nature, culture and heritage.
"The coastal and marine tourism sector will contribute about R21,4 billion to gross domestic product (GDP) and create about 116 000 direct jobs by 2026, thus reducing poverty, inequality and unemployment, while contributing to sustainable livelihoods and development. These estimates are conservative as they are growing from a low 2015 base of R11,9 billion direct contribution to GDP and 64 400 direct jobs," concluded the Minister. |
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| OR TAMBO R5 COINS GO INTO CIRCULATION |
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| South Africans will soon get their hands on the new R5 coins bearing the face of struggle stalwart Oliver Reginald Tambo in the year that he would have turned 100 years old. |
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The Reserve Bank and the South African Mint on Wednesday, 4 October, launched a series of four new commemorative coins honouring the late struggle stalwart. Three of the coins are collectible coins.
The new R5 circulation coin, which is one of the four coins, bears the "Order of the Companions of OR Tambo", which was instituted in 2002 to honour international heads of state and eminent people for their friendship to South Africa.
The R5 coin acknowledges the leader's contribution to the struggle for equality and inclusiveness.
The reverse of the coin features a neck badge and walking stick. The obverse depicts the national Coat of Arms, year of issue and "South Africa" written in English and Xitsonga.
The symbols reflected on the coin include the majola (mole snake), which, according to African mythology, embodies friendship, protection and active support. The walking stick signifies support and commitment and the universal yin and yang symbol suggests a meeting point for diverse spiritual energies.
The R5 commemorative coin forms part of the existing coins already in circulation. |
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| MUSLIM TOURISM: RELIGIOUS FACILITIES TO BE BUILT IN KRUGER |
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| SANParks has approved the construction of wudhu and salaah facilities in Kruger National Park for Muslim visitors. |
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According to Radio Islam, Honourary Ranger Farouk Hassen sent a proposal to SANParks in 2009, which has been approved and has also been raising funds in the Muslim community for the construction of the facilities.
Construction has already started in Skukuza, and will soon start in Lower Sabi, Satara, Tshokwane and Afsaal. There are also plans to build these facilities in other national parks.
Wudhu is the Islamic procedure for washing before prayers, or salaah, and handling the Qur'an. It normally involves washing not only the hands but many other body parts, including the feet.
Hassen told Radio Islam that facilities would be used for the noon, or Zuhr, and afternoon, or Asr, prayers for visitors travelling between camps and day visitors.
According to the World Halal Tourism Summit, which takes place in November, this fast-growing tourism sector with travellers from the Gulf Arab states is valued at $15 billion, and is projected to double by 2026.
South Africa ranks fourth as the top destination worldwide for Muslim travellers, according to the Mastercard-Crescent Rating Global Muslim Travel Index.
Besides praying facilities, the availability of Halaal food options is also an important factor for travelling Muslims, according to a 2015 survey by Muslim Travel Shopping Index. In order to tap into this market, agencies have started initiatives to help educate chefs and restaurants about what Halaal means and how they can widen their appeal to Muslim tourists.
Cape Town Tourism, for example, has piloted a chef exchange programme where two chefs from Singapore did a workshop with 37 local chefs to learn more about Halaal gourmet cuisine. The Mother City has a large local Muslim community, so it would make sense to build on that foundation.
"We have a strong local Muslim community and it is the City of Cape Town's hope that we can continue to strengthen ties with international Muslim communities and welcome more visitors to our city. As an inclusive and opportunity city, we look forward to working with partners to grow this market to boost our tourism numbers all year round," says Executive Mayor of Cape Town, Patricia de Lille. – Source: Traveller24 |
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| "THANK YOU FOR MAKING AFRICA BEAUTIFUL" – TUSK CONSERVATION AWARDS |
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| On Wednesday, 4 October 2017, the top conservationists and wildlife rangers in Africa were honoured at the annual Tusk Conservation Awards in Cape Town. |
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The awards hope to highlight the successes and work done on the ground to protect and conserve Africa's parks and wildlife, as well as teach and raise awareness in the communities to foster stewardship over these last wild places.
This was the first time the awards were held in Africa, at the V&A Waterfront's The Lookout. "Our purpose is to advance innovation in conservation," said Tusk Trust CEO, Charlie Mayhew.
Each winner will receive grants that will go towards their work in conservation, with some receiving up to £40 000.
One of the winners was South Africa's own Sergeant Lucky Ndlovu, wildlife ranger for SANParks who leads the Field Ranger K9 unit in Kruger National Park. He shared the Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award with Zambian ranger, Solomon Chidunuka, who is considered the foremost warden in Zambia.
The award was presented by former President FW de Klerk.
""The nomination motivates me to train the youngsters who will follow me, to be good field rangers," said Ndlovu.
The Tusk Award for Conservation was awarded to Brighton Kumchedwa, the current Director of Malawi's Department of National Parks and Wildlife. He was instrumental in securing commitment from the Government to combat wildlife crime and helped establish the Wildlife Act, which has some of the toughest penalties in Africa for wildlife crime. The award was presented by Graça Machel, humanitarian and widow of Nelson Mandela.
The final award, The Prince William Award for Conservation in Africa, was awarded to Rian Labuschagne who, alongside his wife Lorna, has dedicated 35 years of his life to improving conservation efforts in Malawi, South Africa, Tanzania and Chad. The award was handed over by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who said that "we are linked to one another and all of nature" and thanked the finalists for "making Africa beautiful".
Tusk's royal patron, Prince William, paid tribute to the winners of the night through a video, thanking them for their hard work. – Source: Traveller24 |
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| R18,1 MILLION TO DEVELOP DAWID KRUIPER REST CAMP |
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| The South African National Parks (SANParks) has made available R18,1 million for the development of the Dawid Kruiper Rest Camp within the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, says Environmental Minister, Edna Molewa. |
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This was agreed to in 2015 by SANParks and the ‡Khomani San.
"The development is taking place in the area between the Heritage Park and Auob River – the area in which the community has preferential commercial development rights in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, the so-called V-zone (Voorkeur zone), running between the Heritage Park and Auob River," Minister Molewa said.
Planning for the rest camp has started. It will consist of tourist accommodation units, a reception building, living quarters, swimming pool, parking, associated infrastructure as well as access and internal roads.
"The selection of the site, as well as the concept design for the proposed chalets were done with the inputs from the Bushmen Council," Minister Molewa said.
The Environmental Impact Assessment process is presently being undertaken with the Environmental Authorisation anticipated by end of January 2018. The new rest camp is expected to open in July 2019. – Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| POST OFFICE TOASTS SA WINE INDUSTRY |
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| The South African Post Office (SAPO) has paid tribute to the South African wine industry through a set of five small international letter rate stamps and a commemorative envelope that were issued recently. |
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The stamps were designed by Rachel-Mari Ackermann of SAPO.
"The stamps cost R45,75 for a set of five and a commemorative envelope costs R48,75. They are available from all major post offices and can be ordered from SA.stamps@postoffice.co.za," SAPO said.
Groot Constantia is the oldest wine estate in South Africa and appropriately, the Duke of Northumberland 1791 and Grand Constance 1821 wines feature on one of the stamps.
"Had it not been for Dr Abraham Perold, a scientist at the University of Stellenbosch, South Africa would not have produced Pinotage – a wine unique to South Africa. Perold's goal was to create a wine that was as delicious as Pinot Noir but grew as well as Cinsaut and was sturdy enough to survive in the Cape.
"The first commercially produced Pinotage is the 1959 Lanzerac Pinotage, which is featured on the second stamp," SAPO said.
The winelands of the Western Cape have become a prime draw card for tourists due to their spectacular beauty, internationally renowned restaurants and the high-class wines on offer.
The earliest wine route, the Stellenbosch Wine Route, was established in 1971.
"Today, 17 wine routes are registered with the South African Wine Routes Forum and the winelands feature on the third stamp," the Post Office said.
Wine is also produced in KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape and Limpopo, with about one million litres produced annually in South Africa.
Many viticulturists prefer harvesting grapes by hand instead of machines to minimise damage.
A photograph of workers collecting grapes at Babylonstoren is featured on the fourth stamp. Wine harvesting in South Africa normally occurs between February and March.
"Wine barrels have generally been used either in the manufacturing, maturing, storing or transportation of wine. Previously, most barrels were made of oak; other material such as aluminium, stainless and plastic are becoming popular. Traditional wooden barrels are featured on the last stamp," the Post Office said. – Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| "KROTOA" BAGS NINTH INTERNATIONAL AWARD |
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| "Krotoa" has won its ninth international award at the Montreal International Black Film Festival in Canada by scooping the award for Best Narrative Feature. |
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The 13th Montreal International Black Film Festival ran from 17 September to 1 October 2017 and announced its prize winners at the festival's closing ceremonies on Sunday, 1 October. Winners were selected by a professional jury.
Other films in the running were Carpinteros, by José Maria Cabral (République Dominicaine); Kalushi – The Story of Solomon Mahlangu, by Mandla Dube; and Dabka, by Bryan Buckley.
The film's director, Roberta Durrant has commented on the award: "We can't be more honoured that this important story about an extraordinary woman in our history has received this award."
Krotoa has also been selected as the gala night opening film at the Toronto South Africa International Film Festival, which will be held on 14 and 15 October in Toronto, Canada. The writer, Kaye Ann Williams, and Crystal-Donna Roberts (Krotoa) are looking forward to Skyping in from South Africa to answer the Q&A after the screening.
The film has recently been picked up by Shoreline Entertainment in California, United States, for international distribution throughout the globe.
The seven-week cinema run is finished in South Africa with the rental release scheduled for 27 November. The DVD will be available in stores and online from 1 December. – Source: www.news24.com |
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| TREVOR NOAH'S MEMOIR WINS ANOTHER BOOK PRIZE |
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| Trevor Noah, "The Daily Show" host's, memoir, "Born a Crime", has won the Thurber Prize for American Humour. |
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Judges chose Noah's reflections on growing up in South Africa over a pair of novels: Ken Pisani's Amp'd and Aaron Thier's Mr. Eternity. Noah will be given $5 000 and a crystal plaque.
The award is named after the late James Thurber, the celebrated writer and illustrator. Previous winners include David Sedaris, Julie Schumacher and Noah's predecessor at Comedy Central, Jon Stewart. |
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| VAN NIEKERK‚ MANYONGA‚ SEMENYA NOMINATED FOR THE IAAF’S WORLD ATHLETE OF THE YEAR |
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| South African world champions Wayde van Niekerk‚ Luvo Manyonga and Caster Semenya have been nominated for the IAAF's World Athlete of the Year. |
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Van Niekerk‚ who retained his 400-m title in London‚ and long-jump champion Manyonga‚ whose 8.65m national record was also the best jump this decade so far‚ are among 10 candidates for the men's award.
The United States is the only other country in the men's category with two nominees‚ being livewire pole-vaulter Sam Kendricks and triple jump star Christian Taylor.
Semenya‚ the 800-m champion and 1500-m bronze medallist‚ is the only South African for the women's prize.
Fans can vote on the IAAF's social media platforms‚ with their poll counting 25%.
The IAAF Council vote will count 50% and the IAAF "family" vote will count 25%.
Voting closes on 16 October and the winners will be announced at the awards ceremony in Monaco on 24 November.
The only South African athlete to have won this award was high-jumper Hestrie Cloete in 2003. – Source: TimesLIVE
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| SA'S CUMMINS AND DARIES SHINE WITH BEST-EVER DISPLAY AT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS |
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| Spearheaded by 2014 Commonwealth Games competitor Claudia Cummins, South African gymnastics is cock-a-hoop after their best-ever performance at a World Championship. |
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Cummins, a final year Biokinetics student at the University of Johannesburg, went on to finish 34th overall and she was closely followed by Naveen Daries in 39th spot. The team's other competitor, United States-based Cathy Eksteen, competed on two apparatus only and ended 118th.
A total of 146 women's gymnasts were in action with 72 competing on all four apparatus.
Cummins, 22, and Daries (she's yet to turn 16 and is being home-schooled at the Le-Amen Naves School), both compete out of the Johannesburg Gymnastics Club under head coach, Ilse Pelser, with Lynette Lindeque (who was in Montreal as team coach) and Glen Hlongwane and former Commonwealth and world championships gymnast Candice Cronje also closely involved.
Prior to Montreal, South Africa's best finish at worlds came four years ago when the now-retired Kirsten Beckett ended 46th in Antwerp, Belgium.
Said an ecstatic coach Lindeque from Canada: "This is huge for South African gymnastics and we hope to keep improving and building on this good result as we head towards next year's Commonwealth Games in Australia". – Source: SASCOC |
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| KAGISO RABADA BOWLS PROTEAS TO SERIES VICTORY & HIMSELF INTO HISTORY BOOKS |
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| He also became the youngest South African bowler ever to take 100 Test wickets by the age of 22. |
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Kagiso Rabada completed his second five-wicket haul of the match and his third 10-wicket haul overall as the Proteas beat Bangladesh by an innings and 254 runs in the second Sunfoil Test match that finished in three days at the Mangaung Oval on Sunday, 8 October.
It gave them a 2-0 series victory as they now prepare for the three-match Momentum ODI Series starting at the Diamond Oval on Sunday.
For good measure, Anile Phehlukwayo, playing in only his second Test match, returned career best figures of 3/36 to complement the maiden Test century that fellow series debutant Aiden Markram had made in the same match.
Rabada finished with match figures of 10/63 to take him past the mark of 100 Test wickets in only his 22nd Test match. Only Vernon Philander and Dale Steyn, among South Africans, have reached this landmark quicker while he is joint third on the South Africa all-time list alongside Allan Donald and Hugh Tayfield.
He is also the leading wicket-taker in the current calendar year with 54 dismissals.
Rabada was named Man of the Match and Dean Elgar Sunfoil Man of the Series.
The second Test match raised a total of R193 000 for the Sunfoil Education Trust, bringing the total for the series to R417 500. – Source: Cricket.co.za |
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| BAFANA KEEPS WORLD CUP HOPES ALIVE WITH BURKINA FASO DEFEAT |
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| South Africa gave themselves a faint hope of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup in Russia after a convincing 3-1 win over Burkina Faso at the FNB Stadium on Saturday, 7 October. |
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Bafana's hopes of reaching the World Cup had suffered a triple hammer blow after two recent defeats to Cape Verde, together with FIFA's annulling of their earlier win over Senegal due to the possibility of match-fixing, and had left them bottom of Group D.
With little to lose and not much expected, the hosts, aided also by a morale-boosting first-minute goal, had little pressure on them and they dished up exhilarating football, with an end product that the nation has been yearning for. The result takes Bafana Bafana to four points from four matches and gives them a renewed chance of qualification, although that would likely mean having to beat Senegal both home and away in November.
Head coach Stuart Baxter made several changes to his starting team, including handing a debut to right-back Thamsanqa Mkhize, while up front, the outstanding Percy Tau played as the outright striker, supported by Andile Jali.
South Africa was off to the best possible start when Tau put them ahead after only 48 seconds; the Sundowns man's header from a throw-in hitting the post before just about crossing the line, replays suggesting it was the correct call.
Stung by the early setback, the Stallions came storming back, but apart from Prejuce Nakoulma's shot, which was deflected away from goal by Clayton Daniels, they were unable to pose much of a goal threat.
Instead, Bafana doubled their lead on 33 minutes when some lovely interplay through the middle enabled Themba Zwane to run in on goal, and he made no mistake with a slide-rule finish past Burkinabe keeper Kouakou Koffi at the near post.
It got even better for Baxter's side when they made it 3-0 in first half added time after a long kick up-field by goalkeeper Itumelng Khune found Tau, whose sublime back-heel located club-mate Sibusiso Vilakazi, who beat the on-rushing Koffi. – Source: African News Agency |
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