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| FIRST BATCH OF COVID-19 VACCINES EXPECTED TO ARRIVE IN SOUTH AFRICA ON MONDAY |
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| Health Minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize, has confirmed the long-awaited news that the first consignment of one million COVID-19 vaccines is expected to land on South African shores on Monday, 1 February 2021. |
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The first batch is scheduled to leave India on Sunday, 31 January, and arrive at OR Tambo International Airport on 1 February 2021.
The Minister broke the news during a public health webinar on COVID-19 vaccine inoculation on Wednesday evening, 27 January.
“After the arrival of the vaccine, they will undergo technical processes of quarantine, which is specified in the law, quality assurance [which will look at] how many vials are there, how many are broken and need to be returned and all of those issues,” Minister Mkhize explained.
The Minister said the process was necessary for the safe distribution of the vaccine, which would take up to 14 days before the vaccination of healthcare workers could begin in all the provinces.
Minister Mkhize remarked that the national vaccination campaign was a government-led initiative supported by other sectors such as civil society, trade unions and the private sector.
These players have supported the Government's framework to achieve their goal of “herd immunity” by the end of the year, the Minister said.
He thanked Finance Minister Tito Mboweni and his officials, especially the Procurement Officer, for making sure the country attains the lifesaving jabs.
“They ensured that there are no undue delays and granted us the necessary deviations that we’ve requested and committed to financing additional orders.
“Just this afternoon, National Treasury met with the Department of Health and business; this multisectoral collaboration has borne the fruit we need to fuel our ambitious programme.”
Regulations
Minister Mkhize also announced that the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority had already granted the department authorisation to supply AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine from the Serum Institute of India.
In addition, the Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister signed regulations to waive the 30-day consultation period needed to participate in activities relating to genetically modified organisms in South Africa.
“We needed to adhere to the importation of organic goods derived from genetic modification,” Minister Mkhize explained.
With the regulatory obstacles out of the way, the Minister believes that government is now ready to move ahead with the mass inoculation campaign.
The Minister said the media would be allowed to document this important event, even though it would be restricted due to COVID-19 regulations.
He also applauded the fearless “compatriots” who participated in vaccine trials.
“Let us not forget these heroes who defied all anxieties and chose to be of service for a greater cause. It’s only through human trials that we can truly establish the safety and efficacy of the vaccine and they were those humans.”
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA ASKS RICH COUNTRIES NOT TO HOARD COVID-19 VACCINES |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa says poor countries desperately need COVID-19 vaccines as much as other nations that have already started vaccinating their citizens. |
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“We are all not safe if some countries are vaccinating their people and some countries are not vaccinating,” said President Ramaphosa on Tuesday, 26 January 2021.
The President did not hold back as he raised concerns about vaccine nationalism during a virtual State of the World Address at the World Economic Forum Davos Dialogues.
“The rich countries of the world went out and acquired large doses of vaccines from developers and manufacturers, and some countries have even gone beyond and acquired four times what their population needs,” he said.
According to the President, this was done to the exclusion of countries in the world that also needed the lifesaving COVID-19 vaccine.
The statesman has applauded efforts by the World Health Organisation to set up the COVAX facility to agglomerate all acquisition processes, so that there can be equity in the distribution of and access to vaccines.
“Now, rich countries in the world are holding onto these vaccines. So, we’re saying, release the excess vaccines that you’ve ordered and hoarded.
“There’s just no need for a country, which perhaps has 40 million people, to acquire 120 million doses or even 160 million, yet the world needs access to those vaccines,” the President said.
In realising how the world’s richest countries are behaving, President Ramaphosa said the African Union member states set up the African Vaccine Acquisition Task Team.
According to the President, the move has been “marginally successful”, securing a provisional 270 million doses for African countries directly through vaccine manufacturers.
This is in addition to the 600 million doses that are expected from the COVAX initiative.
“But we need those who have hoarded the vaccines to release the vaccines so that other countries can have them,” said the President.
However, African countries need financial assistance.
“We’re not saying just give them away, but we’re also saying … do make them available so that those countries who don’t have access right now can have [vaccines].
“We must all act together in combatting the Coronavirus because it affects us all equally. Therefore, our remedies and actions to combat it must also be equal and overarching for all of us, and not be something that special or certain countries have on their own to the exclusion of others,” the President said.
South Africa, he said, had not been spared, with the pandemic taking a heavy toll on the nation.
“With the greatest burden of disease on the continent, South Africa has recorded around 1.4 million COVID-19 cases, and more than 40 000 people have lost their lives.”
Economic recovery
President Ramaphosa said the current economic downturn followed a decade of weak economic growth, which added complexity and difficulty to South Africa’s economic recovery path.
“Over the course of nine months, and with the support of our social partners, the South African Government rolled out a comprehensive set of measures to limit the social and economic impact of the pandemic.”
These measures included expanded social protection, a temporary increase in monthly social grants, a monthly special R350 grant that reached six million unemployed people and other measures aimed at businesses.
“While these relief measures have proved vital in keeping many businesses afloat, saving many jobs and keeping millions of South Africans above the poverty line, our attention has now shifted to rebuilding our economy and restoring employment,” the President said.
The focus has now shifted to the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan to boost confidence, restart the economy and drive urgent reforms.
The key priorities include a massive infrastructure build programme; expanding energy generation capacity; creating additional jobs; supporting livelihoods through an employment stimulus; and driving export-oriented industrial development.
In addition, South Africa aims to grow local manufacturing and production, and make South African exports much more competitive.
“Over the last three years, we have mobilised R774 billion, which is around US$51 billion, in new investment commitments,” the President said.
He said the interventions would enable South Africa to better realise the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which became operational on 1 January 2021.
“The free trade area will foster integration, increase trade and accelerate the build-up of productive capabilities and infrastructure in Africa to meet growing demand.”
President Ramaphosa believes that the country will benefit from greater exports to the continent, and domestic sectors such as steel, automotive production, mining and manufactured products are set to benefit, materially boosting economic growth.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA LAUNCHES R1.2 BILLION TOURISM EQUITY FUND (TEF) |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa said the TEF would give the sector a much-needed boost, particularly as it recovers from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. |
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On 26 January 2021, President Cyril Ramaphosa launched the TEF, which is aimed at helping to finance black entrepreneurs in the sector.
The dedicated fund will provide a combination of debt finance and grant funding to facilitate equity acquisition as well as new project development in the tourism sector by black entrepreneurs and more importantly, businesses owned by women and persons with disabilities.
The tourism sector has undoubtedly been one of the most affected by the devastating impact of the COVID-19 impact. The industry accounts for 2.9% of South Africa’s gross domestic product and supports about 1.5 million jobs.
President Ramaphosa said the fund would play a significant part in helping black-owned businesses in the sector to grow and develop.
“We are committed to ensuring that this fund enables black business to substantially benefit from the tourism economy, not to be roped in by fronting companies, or to be marginal bystanders and small-scale suppliers to larger tourism enterprises,” he said.
The fund consists of up to R540 million from the Department of Tourism, R594 million from commercial banks and R120 million from the Small Enterprise Financial Agency (SEFA).
President Ramaphosa further said the sector was among those with the greatest potential for long-term sustainable economic growth.
How will the TEF work?
According to the Minister of Small Business Development, Khumbudzo Ntshaveni, the fund will focus on the following subsectors:
- accommodation (e.g. hotels, lodges, resorts, self-catering units and backpacker facilities)
- hospitality and related services
- travel (and related services, e.g. tour operators)
- any other tourism-related products and initiatives, which support tourism-development imperatives and economic impact in terms of job creation, geographic spread and strengthening the tourism offering of the country.
Financial support to entrepreneurs will be provided on the following basis:
- funding to acquire controlling equity in entities in the tourism sector
- funding of the assets of existing entities in the tourism sector for the explicit purpose of setting up a new entity operating in the sector
- asset finance and working capital that would be required in relation to the acquisition of the tourism entity for expansion or operational purposes.
“We have committed to position SEFA as a leading government financing support agency for SMMEs in the country. Meaning that beyond the funding responsibilities of SEFA, we have positioned SEFA to mobilise and partner with other SMME funders, including commercial banks, as evidenced through the TEF and our other schemes such as the Spaza Support Scheme and the Fruit and Vegetable Vendors Support, among others. Our goal is to leverage government funds to improve access to other funds by SMMEs”, Minister Ntshaveni said.
– Source: www.thesouthafrican.com |
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| PRESIDENT MOURNS GALLANT MINISTER MTHEMBU |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the passing of Minister in The Presidency, Jackson Mthembu, as a great tragedy, particularly at a time when government is striving to return to a path of integrity, selfless service and transformation. |
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Minister Mthembu, who passed away on Thursday, 21 January 2021, due to COVID-19-related complications, was laid to rest on Sunday, 24 January 2021. The late Minister was honoured with an Official Funeral Category 1.
In a moving eulogy delivered at the official funeral service, held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ackerville, Mpumalanga, President Ramaphosa said Minister Mthembu worked ever so hard on a daily basis to advance the cause of his political home, the African National Congress. He gave selflessly of his time and energy to the Government he swore to serve, the Constitution he pledged to defend and protect, and his greatest loyalty was reserved for the country and its people.
"As we pay homage to him today, let us remember him for what he was, a servant leader, who loved the people of this great land and put them above the love of party, leader and of self," said President Ramaphosa.
In honouring Minister Mthembu, the President said his mission of renewing and rebuilding his beloved movement, and restoring the nation’s faith in government by building an ethical state must be continued by those left behind.
“Minister Mthembu was a kind and gentle soul but when it came to corruption, to self-serving leadership and brazen abuse of power, you would see another side to him.
"He was never deceived by the false smiles and empty promises of those who sought to enrich themselves at the expense of the poor and the weak.
“He called them out and he didn’t care if they were more powerful than he was. He risked his life for the liberation of our country and despaired as we stumbled and lost our way.
"It is the greatest tragedy to have lost him, particularly at this time, as we strive to return to a path of integrity, of selfless service and transformation,” President Ramaphosa said.
He praised Minister Mthembu for being a beacon of hope when the nation was close to despair, lifting spirits and bringing clarity, certainty and the utmost professionalism to every task he was assigned.
“Mvelase was among those infinitely rare individuals in our politically-charged society. He was admired and respected across party lines. It has been profoundly touching to witness how the news of Jackson Mthembu’s passing stilled the clatter and bickering that has consumed us in recent times and united us in our sorrow.
“One dare hope that the sentiment that has been displayed at Jackson Mthembu’s passing is a reminder that we have far more in common than we may choose to believe, whether as members of society or as political parties,” President Ramaphosa said.
He described Minister Mthembu's loss as one he felt acutely, calling him a dear friend, whose many virtues he observed over the many years of the friendship they shared.
"He was generous in spirit and had a charming personality. He had the endearing ability to lift my mood and fortify my resolve in even the most difficult situations.
“He had a sense of humour that was often most irreverent. He laughed – with his entire body – about things that he probably shouldn’t have, just as he cared deeply about everything that he should,” an emotional President Ramaphosa said.
Renewed vigour to fight COVID-19
Speaker of Parliament, Thandi Modise, who described Minister Mthembu as a great leader and father, urged the nation to rededicate themselves to fight the Coronavirus.
“Parliament has lost a public representative. We’ve lost a man who could mediate, and if we called him, he would say 'I’m here'. He understood that when you are a Member of Parliament, you speak on behalf of the people,” Modise said.
Minister Mthembu’s daughter, Thuli, said her dad made joy and laughter his daily bread.
“We promise that your love will continue holding us together. Your legacy and love will live on through us,” Thuli said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| VACCINATION CAMPAIGN TO PRIORITISE MOST IN NEED, SAYS PRESIDENT |
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| With South Africa gearing to receive its first consignment of COVID-19 vaccines, President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated that government’s mass vaccination campaign strategy will reach all corners of the country, prioritising those most in need. |
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The President emphasised the commitment in the latest edition of his weekly newsletter on Monday, 25 January 2021.
In coming weeks, the country will receive a batch of 1.5 million Astrazeneca vaccine doses from the Serum Institute of India, the world’s largest vaccine producer.
This, wrote the President, would signal the start of a mass vaccination campaign that would be the most ambitious and extensive in the country’s history.
“It will reach all parts of the country and will be phased to ensure that those most in need are prioritised. The first vaccines to arrive will be provided to healthcare workers, who will be targeted in the first phase.
“The second phase will include essential workers, teachers, the elderly and those with co-morbidities. The third phase will include other adults in the population,” President Ramaphosa said.
The comprehensive rollout strategy and an accompanying logistical framework will be implemented in partnership with the private sector, civil society, traditional leadership, the religious sector and others.
“It is vital that this is a society-wide campaign, in which everyone is involved and no-one is left behind,” he wrote.
“A year after the novel Coronavirus started spreading around the world, the arrival of the vaccine gives great hope for our country’s social and economic recovery – and, most importantly, for the health of our people.”
The President said given the unprecedented global demand for vaccine doses, combined with the far greater buying power of wealthier countries, South Africa had to engage in extensive and protracted negotiations with manufacturers to secure enough vaccines to reach the country’s adult population.
“South Africa has engaged closely with the global COVAX facility and the African Union’s Vaccine Acquisition Task Team as part of the collective effort to secure vaccines for the world’s low- and middle-income countries. The doses that South Africa will receive through its participation in these initiatives, together with the agreements being made directly with manufacturers, are expected to ensure that the country has sufficient vaccines to contain the spread of the virus,” he said.
“From the moment the Coronavirus first reached our shores in March last year, we have acted swiftly and decisively, and informed by the best available scientific evidence, to save lives and protect livelihoods. Through the measures we have taken, we have been able to contain infections, protect our health system and prevent an even greater loss of life,” said the President.
He said: “Understanding that vaccines are essential if we are to overcome the pandemic, government has been working, both through multilateral initiatives and direct negotiations with manufacturers, to ensure South Africa can make the best use of vaccines when they become available”.
Regarding concern that government has not been sufficiently transparent about these efforts, President Ramaphosa said as government did with the announcement on the Serum Institute, the details of deals with manufacturers would be released as and when negotiations are concluded and we are released from the communication terms of the non-disclosure agreements.
“This is commonplace in such circumstances, and most governments have had to comply with similar restrictions,” he said.
“We recognise that it is important that the public must be kept abreast of developments on vaccine acquisition at all times. And government must be held to account for all the decisions it makes in this regard.”
Throughout the pandemic, he said, government had been open and transparent with the South African people on the health measures it was taking to secure the safety of people.
“We have sought to explain all our decisions, to listen to people’s concerns and to continuously update the country on the state of the disease,” he said.
He added: “All of us need to be part of this national effort and not allow the spread of rumours, fear and mistrust. False information and fake news can and does put lives at risk. We all need to work together to build confidence in the vaccine, to demonstrate its effectiveness and its safety – and to emphasise its vital importance in overcoming this deadly disease”.
For its part, he wrote, government would work to improve all its channels of communication, to keep the public regularly informed on the development of the vaccination programme, to provide information that is accurate and factual and to continue to engage with and listen to the broad range of voices in society.
“We have a massive task ahead of us, probably far greater than any of us has ever undertaken before. But if we work together, if we support and trust each other and if we keep the lines of communication open, we will certainly succeed,” said the President.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA MOURNS PASSING OF JAZZ ICON, JONAS GWANGWA |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sadness at the passing of award-winning jazz musician, Jonas Gwangwa, on Saturday, 23 January 2021. |
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Aged 83, the esteemed member of the Order of Ikhamanga was a globally recognised and awarded composer, arranger, producer and jazz trombonist.
In a statement, President Ramaphosa said his thoughts and prayers were with Gwangwa’s family, friends, colleagues, comrades and followers around South Africa, the continent and the world.
“A giant of our revolutionary cultural movement and our democratic creative industries has been called to rest; the trombone that boomed with boldness and bravery, and equally warmed our hearts with mellow melody has lost its life force.
“Jonas Gwanga ascends to our great orchestra of musical ancestors, whose creative genius and dedication to the freedom of all South Africans inspired millions in our country and mobilised the international community against the apartheid system. As we mourn the loss of many precious lives around us, we pray also that the soul of Jonas Gwangwa will rest in peace,” President Ramaphosa said.
The citation for Gwangwa’s National Order, which he received in 2010, recalls how this South African paragon enthralled audiences around the world with his artistry as a composer and all-around creative genius.
For over 30 years, he travelled the world as an exile, collecting accolades wherever he went.
Ntate Gwangwa narrowly escaped death in 1985, when his home was blown up by the apartheid security forces.
A product of the turbulent but musically significant 1950s, he emerged from the humble environs of Orlando East in Soweto.
He delighted audiences in Sophiatown until it became illegal for black people to congregate and South African musicians were jailed merely for practising their craft.
In spite of the restrictions, he established and played with virtually every important band of the era, and icons such as Kippie Moeketsi, Abdullah Ibrahim, Johnny Gertze and Makhaya Ntshoko.
Jonas Gwangwa has also been a compatriot of famous musicians, including Ahmad Jamal, Herb Alpert, Hugh Masekela, Miriam Makeba and Caiphus Semenya.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA WELCOMES THE ENTRY-INTO-FORCE OF THE TREATY ON THE PROHIBITION OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS |
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| On 22 January 2021, the United Nations (UN) Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) entered into force. |
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Marking the event, International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, stated: “Today marks a turning point in humanity’s endeavour to rid the world of nuclear weapons. It is the culmination of that very first UN Generally Assembly Resolution in 1946, which sought to deal with the elimination of nuclear weapons and other weapons adaptable to mass destruction. It cannot be overemphasised that the TPNW is not the final word on nuclear weapons, but a critical step in the evolution of the regime that would be required to achieve and eventually maintain a world without nuclear weapons. Its approach is consistent with the approach taken in the elimination of other unacceptable weapons, where prohibition preceded elimination”
South Africa is of the view that the TPNW represents one of the most important developments in the area of nuclear disarmament since 1945. The TPNW not only complements the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) but strengthens the NPT as the TPNW represents the highest non-proliferation standard that any state can commit to. It also provides the opportunity for those states that are not located in nuclear-weapon-free zones to join an instrument that expresses their total opposition to nuclear weapons.
The denuclearisation of South Africa is symbiotically linked to our democratisation. In his last address to the UN General Assembly in 1998, President Nelson Mandela posed a pertinent question in relation to nuclear weapons as he said: “We must ask the question, which might sound naive to those who have elaborated sophisticated arguments to justify their refusal to eliminate these terrible and terrifying weapons of mass destruction – why do they need them anyway!”
Minister Pandor concluded: “Let me take this opportunity to renew South Africa’s commitment to the total elimination of nuclear weapons as the only guarantee that nuclear weapons will never be used again by anyone under any circumstances". |
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| AU WORKING TO SECURE VACCINES FOR AFRICA |
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| South Africa’s six key priorities of the African Union (AU) have had to take a backseat due to COVID-19, with President Cyril Ramaphosa leading the continent’s response to the pandemic and ensuring collaboration in this important battle. |
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While 2020 has been an unprecedented year, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, believes that the COVID-19 initiatives have led to a unified Africa.
Minister Pandor said one of the outcomes of this collaboration was the inception of the COVID-19 African Vaccine Acquisition Task Team (AVATT), established by President Cyril Ramaphosa in support of the Africa Vaccine Strategy.
“President Ramaphosa and the AU are working hard to secure vaccines for Africa,” the Minister said.
In his capacity as the AU Chair, President Ramaphosa has reported to a special meeting of the AU Bureau of the Assembly that the organisation has secured a provisional 270 million vaccine doses for African countries, with at least 50 million said to be available for the crucial period of April to June 2021.
“These efforts complement the COVAX facility, a World Health Organisation and Gavi Vaccine Alliance initiative to help low- and middle-income countries secure access to vaccines on a fair and equitable basis,” said Minister Pandor.
The Minister was reflecting on South Africa’s two-year non-permanent seat of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the country’s chairship of the AU during a virtual programme hosted by the London Chatham House on Wednesday, 20 January 2021.
"President Ramaphosa’s focus remains premised on the principle that no country should be left behind," said Minister Pandor.
Peace and security
She told delegates that government was dedicated in its UNSC term to the legacy of President Nelson Mandela, whose values and commitment to peace were commemorated on the centenary of his birth in 2018.
“South Africa believes peace is critical to development and progress in Africa. We hoped that our election would support the African objective of silencing the guns in Africa.”
Minister Pandor said the country also used its term to promote the peaceful settlement of conflicts through preventive diplomacy, inclusive dialogue and post-conflict reconstruction and development.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has compounded these challenges and has necessitated us to work together as a collective with all countries across the globe to combat the virus, and ensure that we are able to rebuild a safer world, where the development needs of all its people are fulfilled.”
South Africa has advocated for strengthened partnership and closer cooperation between the UNSC and the AU’s Peace and Security Council.
“However, a challenge in this relationship has to do with the financing of the AU peacekeeping missions authorised by the Security Council,” Minister Pandor said, noting that the African members of the council are continuing with efforts to secure commitments for consistent and sustainable financing of these AU missions.
“Through our cooperation, we also stressed the need to address the root causes and drivers of conflict in Africa, including focussing on the challenges of development and governance.”
Minister Pandor said the country continued to consistently express solidarity with the peoples of Palestine and Western Sahara in their quest to achieve self-determination, fundamental freedom, equality, justice and dignity.
“We further advanced the implementation of the Women, Peace and Security and the Youth, Peace and Security agendas.”
Multilateralism
Following the end of term on the UNSC, South Africa will continue its dedication to multilateralism and work with other bodies of the UN to pursue these goals.
“We remain committed to a rules-based order, characterised by inclusion and equity. There is a lot of ground lost in multilateralism in the past four years and we need to rebuild trust and cooperation,” she said.
She reminded delegates that South Africa took over the chairship of the AU under the theme: “Silencing the Guns: Creating Conducive Conditions for Africa’s Development”.
“We emphasised an existing AU goal through the adoption of this theme. Of course, all our careful planning was altered by COVID-19,” she stressed.
On peace and security, Minister Pandor said many Africans still faced instability, violence and conflict. She cited Libya, the Sahel, Cabo Delgado in Mozambique, South Sudan and the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“We are also concerned by the recent developments relating to the situation in Western Sahara. Greater attention to peace in these countries is critical, as well as support for the solution from the AU and the UN,” she added.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| AMBASSADOR MATHU JOYINI, PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF SOUTH AFRICA TO THE UNITED NATIONS (UN), DELIVERS HER MAIDEN STATEMENT ON SECURITY COUNCIL (SC) REFORM |
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| The newly accredited South African Permanent Representative to the UN in New York, Ambassador Mathu Joyini, on 25 January 2021, delivered a statement on South Africa’s long-held position calling for reform of the UNSC. |
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Ambassador Joyini, who presented her credentials on 22 January 2021, delivered her maiden address in the UN General Assembly Hall during the opening session of the Intergovernmental Negotiations on the Question of Equitable Representation on and Increase in the Membership of the Security Council and other Matters Related to the Security Council.
The Intergovernmental Negotiations on Security Council Reform is an annual process during which member states exchange views with the aim of delivering tangible results on reform. This process is in line with the unanimous decision of their heads of states during the World Summit in 2005 that agreed on an early reform of the UNSC to make it more broadly representative, efficient and transparent and thus to further enhance its effectiveness and the legitimacy and implementation of its decisions.
Addressing the opening session, Ambassador Joyini stated: “In 2005, with the adoption of the Ezulwini Consensus, Africa made clear that our goal is: ‘to be fully represented in all the decision-making organs of the UN, particularly in the Security Council, which is the principal decision-making organ of the UN in matters relating to international peace and security’ – this remains our primary goal as we address the issue before us.
“South Africa’s recent experience serving as an elected member of the Security Council has proven to us that the non-representation in the permanent category and under-representation in the non-permanent category of Africa adversely affect the council’s ability to adequately address matters of peace and security on the continent.”
South Africa’s position is in line with the Common African Position as enshrined in Ezulwini, namely that Africa calls for not less than two permanent seats with all the prerogatives and privileges of permanent membership, including the rights of veto. Furthermore, Africa demands five non-permanent seats. While Africa is opposed to the veto in principle, it demands the right to the veto for as long as it exists.
“A key foreign policy aim of South Africa remains the comprehensive reform of the Security Council as the composition of the UNSC no longer represents the contemporary realities of the world we live in. South Africa remains gravely concerned that 75 years after the founding of the UN, key decisions on peace and security are de-facto the domain of only five countries. Twenty years of discussions on reform of the UNSC have yielded no movement towards a more representative and inclusive Security Council, despite the overwhelming support by the membership for the Common African Position. We therefore need to invigorate the negotiations on reform at the Intergovernmental Negotiations, including by initiating text-based negotiations.
Ambassador Joyini concluded: “We have an obligation to deliver on the mandate given to us by the heads of state in 2005, to urgently reform the United Nations Security Council”. |
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| TRIBUTES FOR BOXING PIONEER LAWRENCE NDZONDO |
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| The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa, has paid tribute to boxing pioneer, Lawrence “Slow Poison” Ndzondo. |
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Ndzondo, from East London, was one of the first boxers from the then Cape Province to turn professional in 1965. He passed away on 20 January 2021 in East London.
“He was a model professional, a disciplinarian, a family man and an absolute credit to the boxing fraternity. He will always be remembered as one of the pioneers of professional boxing in our country during the dark days of apartheid, giving our people hope and inspiration,” the Minister said.
Ndzondo, who fought in the featherweight division throughout his career and was later crowned Cape Featherweight Champion, was known for his relentless body attack, fighting behind a jab, and using the defensive “shoulder roll style” later perfected by the likes of former WBC Super Middleweight Champion, Thulani “Sugarboy” Malinga.
He is also credited with mentoring the late legendary boxer Nkosana “Happy Boy” Mgxaji.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the Ndzondo family, friends and the sporting fraternity at large. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PUBLIC SERVANTS TO GET TRAINING ON DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION |
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| Public servants are set to receive training on innovation and management in the digital and data era, as well as leadership in a time of crisis. |
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The training, which is part of improving the capacity of the State to better deliver services to the public, is a result of a partnership between South Africa and France.
“The National School of Government, in partnership with the École Nationale d'Administration of France, will offer courses in Public Affairs Management in the Digital Era and Leadership in Times of Crisis and Complexity in February 2021,” the National School of Government said on Tuesday, 19 January 2021.
The digital transformation course is aimed at reducing the gap between public administration and the world of innovation and new technologies.
“Digital technology is expected to boost the ability of public servants to innovate in order to meet new expectations of citizens in terms of transparency and democratic participation, and to constantly improve the quality of public services and increase the efficiency of government,” the National School of Government said.
The Leadership in Times of Crisis and Complexity course will explore topics such as leadership and prevention of crisis in a context of high uncertainty, governance and decision-making during a crisis, stakes of communication during a crisis and create agility and responsiveness in complex situations.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PUBLIC SERVANT MANAGERS TO GET TRAINING ON GOVERNANCE |
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| South Africa and the People’s Republic of China are teaming up to improve the capacity of public servants on governance as well as the management of disasters and emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic. |
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“South Africa’s National School of Government, falling under the Ministry for Public Service and Administration, working with the China National Academy of Governance, will in March and April 2021 offer courses on governance and emergency management for senior and middle managers in the Public Service,” the National School of Government said on Monday, 18 January 2021.
The courses will expose South African managers to China’s governance models and responses to emergencies.
The courses will cover, among others, the following:
- China’s Governance Model for Development Outcomes
- the capacity of the State to deal with emergencies
- the Chinese model of disaster management and the management of COVID-19.
“Through discussions, participants will be able to understand China's basic national conditions, governance and management experience. This will further expand friendship, consensus, mutual trust and cooperation between China and South Africa,” said the Principal of the National School of Government, Busani Ngcaweni.
The courses target senior and middle managers in all three spheres of government and will run from March 2021.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SAMRC PARTNERS WITH GLOBAL HEALTHCARE COMPANIES FOR GENETIC DIVERSITY RESEARCH |
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| The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) is collaborating with global healthcare companies for research on genetic diversity in Africa. |
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According to the SAMRC, this comes after the council successfully applied to facilitate the administration of a project jointly funded by multinational pharmaceutical companies, GSK and Novartis, in 2019.
The partnership will see the SAMRC, through its Grants, Innovation and Product Development (GIPD) platform, facilitating the administration of Project Africa GRADIENT.
GRADIENT, short for Genomic Research Approach for Diversity and Optimising Therapeutics, was initiated in 2018 as a collaboration between GSK and Novartis.
“Its primary aim is to establish a consortium to collaborate with expert academic centres and organisations in Africa to support high-quality research on African genetic diversity of relevance to drug therapeutics.”
Its focus is to evaluate genetic diversity as the contributing factor to the way patients on the African continent respond to drugs used to treat malaria and tuberculosis.
The GIPD unit manages external grant funding and innovation activities within the SAMRC through several business units, platforms and programmes.
GSK and Novartis committed combined funding of US$3.6 million (R53 593 128) over five years.
SAMRC President and CEO, Professor Glenda Gray, has welcomed the exciting news.
“We are delighted that partners are now seeking to address the challenges of Africa in their quest to understand the fundamental differences between the genetics of Africa and the rest of the world.”
She believes that this move will build on to the already existing partnership with the two pharmaceutical companies over the years.
“In 2017, the SAMRC, together with the then Department of Science and Technology, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Novartis, which, among others, sought to build scientific capability and potentially lead to breakthrough innovations in South Africa,” Prof. Gray added.
In addition, as part of its Africa NCD Open Lab initiative, GSK collaborated with the SAMRC and the United Kingdom Medical Research Council to tackle non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Africa in 2014.
The SAMRC President said not only was this partnership in line with the strategic goals of the SAMRC of becoming a globally competitive and locally responsive research organisation, but it also demonstrated the need for greater collaboration.
She said she was always encouraged by collaborations that are designed to improve the health and quality of the lives of the people of South Africa and the broader African continent.
Project Africa GRADIENT comprises three funding mechanisms to support, which include fellowships, investigator-sponsored research and seed-funding.
Final award recipients are expected to be announced by the end of 2021.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| COURTYARD HOTEL WATERFALL CITY SET TO WELCOME NEW GUESTS |
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| Situated close to the iconic Mall of Africa, as well as the Sandton and Midrand central business districts, the new Courtyard Hotel at Waterfall City, in Midrand, is officially welcoming guests. |
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The hotel is within walking distance of the Mall of Africa’s various amenities and is close to the Gautrain bus service and a secure bicycle parking facility, which means the hotel takes advantage of its location within the Waterfall City development to promote the use of sustainable public transport.
In Phase 1, the hotel will open its commercial areas (including the basement, ground floor and ninth floor) plus 84 bedrooms and four suites. The remaining floors and 80 rooms will open in phases, dependent on demand once the hotel is trading and the effect of COVID-19-related restrictions in the next few months.
The property has environment-friendly principles built into it, and the hotel is in the process of receiving its four-star Green Building Council South Africa certification that will validate the environmental initiatives implemented during the design, construction and procurement phase of this newly built hotel.
To achieve four stars, a facility has to demonstrate that best practices were followed to reduce the environmental impact of development through direct and indirect initiatives.
Efficient water and electrical designs were implemented throughout to minimise demand on resources. These include energy-efficient lights and appliances, as well as intelligent lighting management systems and building monitoring systems. There is an effective automated mechanism for monitoring water consumption data, which is able to perform as a leak detection system.
Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City has also implemented intelligent metering systems and software to consolidate data that is displayed on permanent screens strategically placed within the foyer to ensure ongoing education and awareness of guests and staff.
Data will be available in real-time and will display daily, weekly, monthly and yearly energy and water consumption of the building.
Despite the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the tourism and hospitality industry, construction of the new hotel has only been set back four months. In building the new property, some 4 095 m³ of concrete was used, 141 t of reinforcement, 9 865 m² of post-tensioning reinforcement of slabs, 15 919 m² of brickwork, 2 400 m² of glazing and 1 558 m² of ventilated façade.
The imminent launch of this new hotel heralds a new era in the Courtyard Hotel brand, says COO Lindiwe Sangweni-Siddo, who adds that there is much that is new with regard to guest experience.
“As we position the brand to appeal to the more discerning traveller of all ages, the fixtures and finishings are designed to wow guests as they walk through the space, bringing the fresh green outdoors inside and making the most of the light and views.”
– Source: www.engineeringnews.co.za |
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| TWO SOUTH AFRICAN LODGES NAMED AMONG PLANET’S BEST |
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| Two of the country's most exceptional establishments have been picked for an acclaimed must-visit travel list. |
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South Africa is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world and, according to Conde Nast Traveler’s annual ranking of the best resorts on the planet, two of the most luxurious lodges are found here too.
The list was collated from surveys done by travellers via the publication’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards. Even though non-essential travel has been on hold since early 2020, the list highlights places that resonated with readers “in a year when travel may have been out of reach”.
The resorts that made the coveted “Best Lodges in the World” list include out-of-this-world retreats in the Maldives, Fiji and the Caribbean, with several of the top spots taken by safari lodges in Africa.
South Africa proudly has two places on the list, Singita Sabi Sands Boulder Lodge in Mpumalanga and Morukuru Beach Lodge in the De Hoop Nature Reserve near Cape Agulhas.
Singita Sabi Sands Boulders Lodge is set in the exclusive Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve on the banks of the Sand River. Together with its neighbour, the famous Kruger National Park, Sabi Sabi offers 2.7 million hectares of unfenced, protected wilderness.
Game roams freely between the two reserves, forming one of Africa’s most biodiverse wildlife populations. Sabi Sands is particularly famous for its leopards and boasts an unrivalled record for the regularity and quality of sightings.
The lodge has 12 spacious suites with glass-fronted bathrooms and ball-and-claw tubs overlooking the open bush. When you aren’t on guided safari walks or drives with professional rangers and skilled Shangaan trackers, you can relax by a private plunge pool, enjoy pampering massages and body treatments in the spa or work out in the gym.
The five-bedroom Morukuru Beach Lodge in De Hoop Nature Reserve is an off-grid idyll nestled on one of the most beautiful coastlines in South Africa. The luxurious boutique beach lodge has five gorgeous suites with panoramic ocean views where you can lie and watch migrating whales, and is just steps from the beach and ocean.
You can cool off in the swimming pool, soak in the hot tub and enjoy sundowners on the rooftop terrace, which boasts 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding reserve and ocean. It’s nothing less than spectacular.
Other luxury resorts on the list include Singita’s Pamushana Lodge in Zimbabwe’s Malilangwe Reserve, Likuliku Lagoon Resort in Fiji, Naladhu Private Island in the Maldives, the Mulia & Mulia Villas in Bali, Oliver’s Camp in Tanzania’s Tarangire National Park and Wilderness Safari’s Bisate Lodge in Rwanda.
– Source: www.thesouthafrican.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICA’S MICHELIN MAN JAN HENDRIK KEEPS HIS SHINING STAR FOR FIFTH YEAR |
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| The country's most famous chef has held on to his star for another year: No easy feat when it comes to one of the highest honours of the culinary world. |
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The acclaimed South African chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen is the mastermind behind Jan, the fine-dining restaurant he opened in Nice, France, in 2013.
Michelin stars are the oldest and most revered international restaurant accolade. Earning one – alone keeping it – is one of the toughest challenges, not to mention the highest honour for chefs.
Michelin stars are a rating system used by the revered Michelin Guide to grade restaurants on their quality. The starred listings in Michelin Guides are reviewed annually by anonymous inspectors who visit eateries on the sly and assess them according to a strict set of criteria.
These range from the quality of the ingredients to the table setting. And they are nothing less than brutal – one fork out of place and an establishment could lose its star rating.
It is an incredible achievement for our very own local chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen to retain his one-star rating for the fifth year in a row.
– Source: www.thesouthafrican.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN VINEYARD AWARDED “ETHICAL COMPANY OF THE YEAR” |
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| The judges were unanimous in their praise for Journey’s End Vineyards’ genuine commitment to supporting its local community, which led to the creation of a foundation aiming to tackle worsening hunger and poverty within South Africa by providing 10 000 free meals a week via nine soup kitchens. |
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Journey’s End Vineyards, the boutique winery and vineyard, owned by the Gabb family, and situated on the mountain slopes above Sir Lowry’s Pass Village in the Helderberg basin, are delighted to have been awarded “Ethical Company of the Year” at The Drinks Business Green Awards 2020.
The Drinks Business, the leading European drinks trade publication, launched their annual Green Awards in 2010. These awards are dedicated exclusively to green-minded drinks companies, celebrating the eco-conscious and ethical, and drawing attention to green leaders who are benefitting their surroundings socially, ethically and environmentally, in the hope that it will encourage others to follow in their sustainable footsteps.
On awarding the 2020 Ethical Award to Journey’s End Vineyards, Lucy Shaw, editor of The Drinks Business, said: “Our judges were unanimous in their praise for this company’s genuine commitment to supporting its local community, which led to the creation of a foundation aiming to tackle worsening hunger and poverty within South Africa by providing 10 000 free meals a week via nine soup kitchens.”
One of the judges described this feat as “extraordinary – they are doing something desperately needed right now in providing food for their local community that has been devastated by the pandemic – it’s a little bit of magic.”
“We are absolutely thrilled to have been awarded Ethical Company of the Year by The Drinks Business. This is a real testament to our dynamic Journey’s End team and our efforts to really help those most at need in our local Helderberg region of South Africa. Having committed ourselves initially to providing 8 000 meals per week for 52 weeks, we set an ambitious target of 10 000 meals a week by the end of October 2020. With the commitment and dedication of our team – we are now cooking and providing over 13 000 meals weekly – with the weekly numbers growing! This is making a real difference in people’s lives who really need help. Aside from our focus on high quality, sustainable wine production – we remain absolutely committed as Journey’s End to supporting the community and those most at need through thick and thin – even during what was an incredibly challenging year for the South African wine industry at large,” says Managing Director, Rollo Gabb.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| AN INTERNATIONAL ARTIST IS IN SOUTH AFRICA CREATING AN ARTWORK TO UNITE THE WORLD |
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| Saype Artiste is an international artist linking the world with artworks of giant hands linked together to make a human chain. |
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Arm in arm, that is what Saype Artiste hopes to portray with his “Beyond Walls” project. Saype Artiste is a nurse turned self-taught artist. He was inspired to do something after witnessing the revolt in Iran.
Not wanting to turn to graffiti, he looked for an art form that would have real meaning and get people talking. With drones becoming popular in Europe, he thought of artworks that could be seen from above and realised his medium could be grass.
Using 100% biodegradable paints, Saype Artiste paints portraits on grass. In 2019, he started his Beyond Walls project. The aim is to paint a human chain around the world.
Artiste is currently in South Africa, painting the linked arms on the grass of the Sea Point Promenade. The human chain started in Paris, below the Eiffel Tower and has since been spotted in Andorre, Geneva, Berlin, Ouagadougou, Côte d’Ivoire, Turkey and Italy.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SHARKS ENTER INTO GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP WITH ROC NATION |
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| The Sharks has announced a new global partnership with the internationally acclaimed agency Roc Nation. |
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The Sharks recently announced a new global partnership with the internationally acclaimed agency, Roc Nation.
The Durban franchise announced on its official website that the Roc Nation was one of the world's leading entertainment companies, forming a unique and tangible partnership with the Sharks, driven by innovation, community and integrity.
A statement from the Sharks read:
“This announcement follows the news earlier in the month that American company MVM Holdings had acquired a 51% controlling share in the Sharks, with co-CEO of Roc Nation Unified, Michael Yormark, forming part of the consortium.
Roc Nation also has Springboks Siya Kolisi and Cheslin Kolbe as its clients.
Sharks CEO Eduard Coetzee commented: "Roc Nation is an internationally renowned brand and we are delighted to welcome them to the Sharks family.
"With their expertise and relationships in the international market, our vision of taking the Sharks brand to the world is very much on track. Working together with our team at the Sharks, Roc Nation will assist in growing our fan base in new territories and will ensure that our approach will always be of an international standard. We look forward to the sharing of minds, a bold approach and the creativity that this partnership will produce, that will position our brand as the leading brand in world rugby.
Commenting on the exciting alliance between the two business entities, Yormark said: "Roc Nation is thrilled to embark on this unique partnership with the Sharks, supporting Ed and his first-class management team to position the club as the premium rugby club in South Africa and around the world. Leveraging our subject-matter experts across our international offices, we are confident that the Sharks will be the envy of the rugby world, attracting top players from around the world.
"Success in this partnership is not just accomplishment on-field, but how we build upon the business structure to guarantee long-term sustainable success."
– Source: www.bignewsnetwork.com |
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| PROTEAS WOMEN SEAL ODI SERIES WIN OVER PAKISTAN |
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| The Momentum Proteas produced a fighting performance with the ball to edge Pakistan Women by 13 runs in a nail-biting second ODI at Kingsmead Stadium in Durban on Saturday, 23 January 2021,to earn an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. |
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Marizanne Kapp scored her ninth ODI half-century and took three wickets to help the Proteas beat Pakistan and jolt their Black Day ODI on a positive note in what promises to be a thrilling marque event for the side.
Pakistan captain Javeria Khan won the toss and elected to field and South African batters reacted with a score of 252/7 with Kapp sparkling with a well-played 68 off 45 balls.
The all-rounder arrived at the crease with the score on 141/4 after 34 overs and was instrumental in the Proteas posting an imposing 252/7 batting first on a rather slow Kingsmead wicket.
Pakistan Women could only muster 239/8 with the duo of Nida Dar and Aliya Riaz with a record fifth wicket stand of 111 runs. Unfortunately for the visitors the stand between Dar and Riaz was not enough to secure victory as the hosts fought back with the ball.
Ayabonga Khaka made a welcome return as she was the standout bowler with figures of 4/43 while Kapp came through with the ball as she picked key three wickets.
Apart from the middle order duo with the record stand and Omaima Sohail (41 off 33), no other batter was able to convert their knocks for the visitors. The hosts will take more positives from their two games given this was their fifth consecutive win and will want to continue on that winning streak.
– Source: www.ecr.co.za |
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| EXTREME SWIMMER RYAN STRAMROOD NOMINATED FOR INTERNATIONAL AWARD |
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| The WOWSA Man of the Year Award winner is being chosen through a public online voting system, so South Africans are encouraged to spend a few minutes to vote for Ryan Stramrood to help bring the award home. |
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Well-known extreme swimmer and inspirational speaker Ryan Stramrood has been nominated for the prestigious World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA) “Man of the Year” Award, after being recognised for achieving the record number of crossings from Robben Island to the mainland, in June 2020.
It was his 109th swim of the challenging crossing between Robben Island and Blouberg beach, which ranges between 7,4kms and 11kms of very cold water.
The award goes to a male swimmer who has shown, through his achievements in 2020, exceptional tenacity, perseverance and a sense of adventure. One of the things that makes the 2020 award particularly notable is that each of the swimmers nominated was able to achieve these feats during a global pandemic. Ryan reached the 108th Robben Island crossing milestone just before the lockdown was announced in March 2020, matching that of his late friend Theodore Yach, who had previously held that record.
Stramrood had to put his swimming plans on hold indefinitely, and face the reality that he would not be able to train in open water for the foreseeable future. Then in June 2020, only days after the lockdown regulations allowed him back into the ocean, he broke the record despite a lack of proper training for over 10 weeks.
He was a self-confessed couch potato before he set his mind to do the Robben Island swim for the first time in 2003. Since then, he has taken on some of the world’s most extreme swims and pushed boundaries in ultra-extreme cold conditions. With a small team of South Africans, he swam the World First Official Ice Mile in Antarctica in -1C water temperature and was part of the team for the World First USA to Russia Relay (mainland to mainland). He has succeeded in crossing the notorious English Channel and has twice swum across the Straits of Gibraltar from Europe to Africa. Stramrood is also a two time Guinness World Record holder.
Since his 109th crossing in June, Stramrood has completed the Robben Island swim a further five times.
Since his Ice Mile swim in Antarctica in 2014, Stramrood has been sharing his learnings from his extreme swims, as a global inspirational speaker.
The WOWSA Man of the Year Award winner is being chosen through a public online voting system, so South Africans are encouraged to spend a few minutes to vote for Ryan to help bring the award home.
“I am especially chuffed with this nomination as it completely embodies the messages I take around the world with me: mindset, perseverance, resilience and achieving goals in the toughest of climates. I am hugely grateful for the recognition.”
Voting closes on Friday, 29 January.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN WOMAN BLAZES TRAIL THROUGH QATAR’S OFF-ROADING CIRCUIT |
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| A South African woman is kicking up a dust storm in Qatar's traditionally male sport of off-road motoring. |
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In a country where gender separation remains common in many facets of life, 4×4 enthusiast Marcelle Visser has also been appointed a dune driving safety marshal raising eyebrows even further.
“As soon as my tyres touched the sand, I fell in love with the desert,” said Visser.
“When you start off with this, you think it’s a men’s sport. This was keeping me away in the beginning.”
But Khaled Shash, the chief safety marshal of Qatar’s Dune Rider Club, a group bringing together those with a passion for the desert and 4×4 vehicles, sought to nurture Visser’s enthusiasm.
“The minute I saw how Marcelle is passionate about off-roading in general, I decided to focus on her. It was a plan to make her a marshal.”
Marshals take responsibility for the safety of group members on desert drives, training participants in off-road driving techniques and aiding those in distress.
More than 4 300 accidents have been reported in Qatar’s most popular off-roading area in the past five years, according to Interior Ministry figures.
Authorities have embarked on an aggressive media campaign with television coverage of safety and recovery initiatives, driver education roadshows, and warning billboards dotted around desert areas.
Dune Riders, like most other clubs, hosts regular workshops for newcomers to promote safety.
– Source: www.thesouthafrican.com |
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