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| A HISTORIC MOMENT AS FIRST VACCINES ARRIVE |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President David Mabuza, who chairs the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Vaccines, on Monday, 1 February 2021, received South Africa’s first consignment of COVID-19 vaccine. |
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The President and Deputy President were joined by the Minister of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhize; Acting Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni; High Commissioner of the Republic of India, His Excellency Jaideep Sarkar; and Dr Morena Makhoana, Chief Executive Officer of Biovac.
Biovac is a biopharmaceutical company that was formed in 2003 in a partnership between government and private investors to establish local vaccine manufacturing capability.
Biovac will play an important role in the quality assurance, warehousing and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines.
High Commissioner Sarkar represented India as the country of origin of the first vaccine to be rolled out in South Africa. The Serum Institute of India (SII) has been licensed to produce a vaccine that has been developed by the multinational pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical company, AstraZeneca, in collaboration with the University of Oxford.
The first shipment of the Oxford University-AstraZeneca vaccine from the SII left the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai on 31 January 2021.
The Consul-General of South African in Mumbai, Andrea Kühn, and members of the Consulate were in attendance to extend South Africa's deep appreciation to the exceptional and professional support rendered by the Government of India, the SII, Mumbai International Airport Cargo, Expo Freight Private Limited (EFL) and Emirates Airline. This milestone highlighted the solid relations and deep friendship that exist between South Africa and India and further consolidated the cooperation between the two countries in the fight against the spread of the global pandemic.
The event was also attended by Sudeep Narayan, Director India-Airfreight, EFL; Subhash P Dixit, Senior Manager, EFL; SD Prabhu, Cargo Manager Maharashtra & Goa, Emirates; and Patrick Mascarenhas, CSM, Asia Pacific and South East Asia, Emirates.
The arrival of the first consignment at OR Tambo International Airport marked the start of the vaccine roll-out, which President Ramaphosa described as the largest and most complex logistical vaccine undertaking in South Africa’s country’s history.
The scale of delivery is unprecedented in terms of the number of people who have to be reached within a short space of time.
The aim of the vaccination programme is to achieve immunity across the population. The first phase of this roll-out programme will prioritise around 1.2 million frontline health workers.
Government is coordinating the vaccine programme through the committee chaired by Deputy President Mabuza, which is focussed on procurement, distribution, actual vaccination, monitoring, communication and mobilisation. |
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| GOVERNMENT EASES ADJUSTED LEVEL 3 RESTRICTIONS |
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| With a decline in new COVID-19 infections, hospital admissions and deaths, government has decided to ease a number of restrictions under adjusted level 3. |
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Addressing the nation on Monday evening, 1 February 2021, President Cyril Ramaphosa said the average rate of new infections had been steadily coming down over the last three weeks, indicating that the country had now passed the peak of the second wave.
“We are acutely aware that these restrictions have negatively affected businesses and threatened jobs in the hospitality, tourism and related industries.
“That is why we are determined that such restrictions should not continue any longer than is absolutely necessary to contain the pandemic and minimise the loss of life,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President’s address on developments in relation to the country’s response to the Coronavirus pandemic followed meetings in recent days of the National Coronavirus Command Council, the President’s Coordinating Council and Cabinet.
Hours of curfew
“The hours of the curfew will now be from 11pm to 4am. Establishments will need to close by 10pm to allow their customers and staff to return home by curfew.
“Faith-based gatherings will be permitted, subject to health protocols. Such gatherings may not exceed 50 people for indoor venues and 100 persons for outdoor venues,” the President said.
Where the venue is too small to accommodate these numbers with appropriate social distancing, then no more than 50% of the capacity of the venue may be used.
Public places such as beaches, dams, rivers, parks and public swimming pools will be reopened subject to health protocols.
Drink responsibly
While restrictions on the sale of alcohol will be eased, the President has called on South Africans to drink responsibly so that the country does not experience a spike in trauma cases or an increase in infections due to reckless behaviour.
“As we ease restrictions once again, the responsibility on each and every one of us as individuals becomes even greater.
“Let us remember that despite the clear progress we have made, the number of new cases is still high and there is an ever-present danger of a resurgence,” President Ramaphosa said.
The sale of alcohol by licensed premises for off-site consumption will be permitted from Mondays to Thursdays, from 10am to 6pm.
“Duty-free shops, registered wineries, wine farms, micro-breweries and micro-distilleries will be able to sell alcohol for off-site consumption during their normal licensed operating hours.
“The sale of alcohol by licensed premises for on-site consumption – such as restaurants and taverns – will be permitted throughout the week from 10am to 10pm,” the President said.
Several restrictions remain in place
As there is still a continued high risk of transmission, several prevention measures will remain in place.
“Social gatherings, political events, traditional council meetings and gatherings at sports grounds will not be permitted.
“This does not include religious gatherings and funerals and other limited exceptions as detailed in the regulations, such as restaurants, museums and gyms,” the President said.
Funerals may not be attended by more than 50 people, and there needs to be social distancing, hand sanitising and mask wearing.
“It remains compulsory for every person to wear a mask in a public space,” President Ramaphosa said.
He encouraged people who discover that they have been exposed to the virus or are COVID-19 positive to isolate at home away from other members of the household or, if this is not possible, go to a government quarantine site.
“Being in crowded places or spending time in closed, unventilated spaces dramatically increases the risk of contracting the virus. For this reason, you must avoid indoor spaces wherever possible and open windows to limit the spread of the virus through the air.
“Research has shown that the risk of transmission of the virus is almost 20 times higher indoors than in outdoor settings,” he said.
The President reiterated that all South Africans should keep a safe distance of 1.5 metres from other people at all times.
“We urge employers to allow their employees to work from home wherever possible, and not to risk transmission where it is not absolutely necessary to do so. If you must have interactions with friends and family, do so outside,” President Ramaphosa said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA ADDRESSES MINING INDABA |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the opening remarks at the annual Investing in African Mining Indaba on Tuesday, 2 February 2021. |
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The indaba, which was held virtually this year, broadcast a pre-recorded address by the President.
The indaba was hosted under the theme: “Resilience & Regrowth: Adopting the New Mindset for African Mining”.
It featured guest speakers, including the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Félix Tshisekedi; the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Julius Maado Bio; and the President of the Republic of Botswana, Mokgweetsi Masisi.
The President’s address set out South Africa’s progress in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and highlighted opportunities for international investment and the critical role of the mining industry in rebooting the economy. |
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| AFRICAN COUNTRIES UNITED IN COVID-19 RESPONSE: PRESIDENT |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the COVID-19 pandemic as a health, humanitarian, social and economic crisis, which African countries are responding to collectively. |
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“COVID-19 has affected all the countries on the continent. To date, there are more than 3.5 million confirmed cases in Africa, and more than 88 000 people have died. It has been a health, humanitarian, social and economic crisis for African countries, most of whom are inadequately resourced to manage a health emergency of this size,” said the President in his weekly newsletter.
In the letter on Monday, 1 February 2021, the President reflected on South Africa’s term as Chair of the African Union (AU), which comes to an end later this week.
South Africa assumed Chairship of the AU in the same month that the first case of COVID-19 was reported on the African continent.
Collective response
The President said African countries had come together to fight the pandemic, drawn principally on the continent’s own expertise, capabilities and institutions such as the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“Africa did not sit by passively as the true extent and danger of the pandemic unfurled. From the earliest days of the pandemic and led by the AU, we swiftly developed a continental response strategy, driven by the Africa CDC and regional task forces,” he said.
The AU realised that every country on the continent would be severely affected by the pandemic, and that most would not have the resources needed to meet the public health challenge or to protect their economies.
“We therefore agreed as African countries to appoint several prominent Africans as special envoys, who would engage with international funders and multilateral institutions to make the case for financial support and debt relief on Africa’s behalf.”
The continent was able to achieve debt relief for many countries and financial assistance towards the COVID-19 response and economic recovery.
“But much as African countries went to the international community for support, we first helped ourselves – establishing and capitalising a continental COVID-19 Response Fund.
"For every partnership forged with better-resourced nations and the international donor community, we set up our own innovative and ground-breaking African Medical Supplies Platform to enable all African countries to quickly secure personal protective equipment and other medical supplies in an equitable, affordable manner.”
Vaccine roll-out
The President said with the COVID-19 vaccine now available, the AU has worked to ensure that the continent gets its fair share, working with the COVAX Facility and led by the African Vaccine Acquisition Task Team.
"Vaccine roll-out has already commenced on the continent and we aspire to have the majority of the continent’s population vaccinated by the end of 2021 to achieve herd immunity,” he said.
President Ramaphosa said protecting the health and livelihoods of people on the continent had been a priority.
“We have acted as one to protect health, people and livelihoods on the continent. In doing so, we have demonstrated our capacity for self-reliance and our ability to be the drivers of our own development.
"Despite the dominance of COVID-19, we have still managed to make advances in several of our key priorities.”
Key priorities
During South Africa’s term as AU Chair, the Africa Continental Free Trade Area was finally launched, heralding a new era of intra-African trade and economic integration.
Even under the difficult conditions posed by the pandemic, the continent has pushed ahead towards the goal of “silencing the guns” on the continent.
In addition, the AU has been actively involved in negotiations around the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, achieving a ceasefire in Libya and promoting peace in South Sudan.
“Another focus of our term has been on the economic empowerment of women, which we will continue to champion even beyond our term and throughout the Decade of African Women’s Financial and Economic Inclusion to 2030,” said President Ramaphosa.
As South Africa hands over the baton to the Democratic Republic of Congo, “we leave this preeminent continental body in a position of greater strength”.
The President said South Africa would continue to play its part to foster integration on the continent, and support the incoming Chair and the AU in its efforts to meet the aspirations of Agenda 2063.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| WORKING TOGETHER TOWARDS GLOBAL RECOVERY |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa says the COVID-19 pandemic has had a severe impact on African economies, on public health and on the African Union (AU) system itself. |
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“It is therefore more critical than ever that we step up our collaboration on all fronts as we drive the global recovery effort,” President Ramaphosa said.
In his welcome address delivered virtually at the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) 20th Symposium on Thursday, 28 January 2021, President Ramaphosa said the AU would continue to work through the COVID-19 Vaccine Global Access Facility, known as COVAX, to ensure equal access to the vaccine, and that the needs of poor countries were taken into account.
President Ramaphosa said they would pursue efforts through the African Vaccine Acquisition Task Team to complement the COVAX arrangements and to secure enough vaccine doses for the continent.
“As we battle to contain and eradicate COVID-19, we at the same time have to renew our focus on meeting our developmental aspirations as a continent.
Strengthening the work of AUDA-NEPAD
“Strengthening the work of the African Union Development Agency – or AUDA-NEPAD – is more important than ever,” President Ramaphosa said.
With regard to the AUDA-NEPAD, President Ramaphosa commended Dr Ibrahim Assane Mayaki for his excellent leadership of the agency and for the service he had rendered towards the socio-economic upliftment of the continent.
He also paid tribute to presidents Abdelaziz Bouteflika, Thabo Mbeki, Hosni Mubarak, Olusegun Obasanjo and Abdoulaye Wade.
“In 2001, they created this Pan-African institution as a flagship to eradicate poverty, promote sustainable growth and development, integrate Africa into the world economy and accelerate the empowerment of women.
“Together with their fellow African leaders, they developed NEPAD as a new vision and programme of action for sustainable socio-economic development.
“This aimed to enhance the capacity of African states and regional institutions to fulfil the collective vision of an integrated, peaceful, united and prosperous Africa,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said over its 20 years, NEPAD had promoted programmes in areas such as agriculture, health, education and training, the environment, information and communications technology (ICT) and infrastructure development.
“It has inspired the Presidential Infrastructure Champion Initiative and prioritised the development of regional infrastructure in sectors such transport, energy, ICT and transboundary water.
“Significant progress has also been made in the implementation of the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa, which has the potential to facilitate continental integration in support of the African Continental Free Trade Area,” he said.
President Ramaphosa said an impressive accomplishment of NEPAD had been the strengthening of partnerships with the rest of the world.
NEPAD agenda
He said the transformation of NEPAD into the AUDA was an opportune time to reflect on the implementation of the NEPAD agenda.
Established in 2001 as the flagship socio-economic programme of the AU, NEPAD’s primary objectives were to eradicate poverty, promote sustainable growth and development, integrate Africa into the world economy and accelerate the empowerment of women.
The NEPAD 20th Symposium brought together current and former AU heads of state and government, representatives of all spheres of the African and international development community to reflect on the successes, achievements and challenges of the past two decades and the future of the transformed AUDA-NEPAD under the theme: “A Decade of Action to Achieve the Africa we Want”
.– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| AU RALLIES SUPPORT FOR EQUITABLE ACCESS TO COVID-19 VACCINES |
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| The Chairperson of the African Union (AU), President Cyril Ramaphosa, has called on the World Trade Organisation to waiver specific Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) obligations related to the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 for a defined period. |
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Together with India, South Africa has proposed a TRIPS waiver in response to the pandemic.
“We need more countries to support this initiative. This would enable countries in Africa and elsewhere to access active pharmaceutical ingredients and benefit from technology transfer, including the know-how to manufacture vaccines in Africa at a cheaper cost,” he said.
On Wednesday, 27 January 2021, the President addressed a webinar on the Africa COVID-19 Vaccine Financing and Development Strategy, which was attended by ministers of health and finance of the AU member states as well as experts, private-sector leaders and civil-society representatives.
“The task before us is to step up global solidarity to ensure equitable access to the vaccines. All countries must get vaccines and must get them speedily.
“It is vital to the global containment of COVID-19 that vaccination takes place in all countries and among all populations. No part of the world will be safe from COVID until all parts of the world are safe,” the President said.
He noted challenges of accessing vaccines for the Global South, particularly for Africa.
“The developed North, which has substantial financial resources, has purchased the largest stocks, while we in Africa are struggling to get our fair share. The painful irony is that some of the clinical trials for these vaccines were carried out in Africa.
“In other cases, vaccines are packaged right here on the continent, yet we struggle to access them for our populations," President Ramaphosa said.
He said vaccine prices were high, and many countries might not afford to vaccinate enough of their population to achieve herd immunity.
Efforts to secure COVID-19 vaccine
In January, the President convened a meeting of the AU Bureau to discuss the work undertaken by the African Vaccine Acquisition Task Team.
“It is estimated that Africa will only be able to access around 20% of vaccines needed through the COVAX facility. We therefore found it necessary to complement this facility to ensure health workers are vaccinated soonest and countries reach herd immunity faster.
“We have secured a provisional 270 million vaccine doses for African countries through the Task Team. At least 50 million will be available from April to June 2021,” the President said.
These doses are from three major suppliers namely, Pfizer, AstraZeneca through the Serum Institute of India, and Johnson & Johnson.
As a result of the high cost of vaccines, the task team has arranged with Afreximbank to support member states who want to access these vaccines based on a whole-of-Africa approach.
“Should countries submit firm offers, Afreximbank has committed to provide advance procurement commitment guarantees of up to US$2 billion to the manufacturers on behalf of member states.
“The AU team and the World Bank are collaborating to ensure that member states can have access to further funding,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa expressed appreciation for MTN’S offer to donate US$25 million to the vaccine programme of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention to immunise health workers in Africa.
“This is solidarity in action. We call upon other companies, both of African origin and offshore companies that do business in Africa, to do what MTN has done to contribute financially to enable African countries to immunise their target groups,” the President said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| MINISTER ADDRESSES 38TH ORDINARY SESSION OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL |
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| The Chairperson of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU), the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, delivered the opening remarks during the 38th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council, which is being held virtually from 3 to 4 February 2021. |
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Minister Pandor thanked the Chairperson of the AU Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, and his team for the support provided to South Africa during its year as Chair of the AU.
“We are meeting in the context of our global battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has had severe effects on our countries and yet, it has also united us in a manner reminiscent of the solidarity that the Organisation of African Unity led against apartheid South Africa.
“While we are not yet at a level that allows a focus on post-COVID recovery, it will be logical to use our precious unity to devise solutions that allow Africa to grow together.
“Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic on the continent in March 2020, African countries have made huge strides in containing the spread of the virus. The achievements recorded so far can be attributed to the proactive initiatives undertaken by all of us as a collective under the decisive leadership of the AU Bureau with the support of the chairs of the regional economic communities, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and the Chair of the AU, President Cyril Ramaphosa.
“The most important public health measure to prevent COVID-19 is a vaccine. For the past year, efforts have been underway to find vaccines that are both safe, affordable and effective. We finally have achieved the goal, with a number of vaccines having undergone clinical trials and passing stringent safety tests. The production of the vaccine has begun in earnest.
“However, vaccines are costly. All countries must get vaccines and must get them speedily. It is vital to the global containment of COVID-19 that vaccination takes place in all countries and among all populations. We are all aware of the challenges of accessing vaccines for the Global South, particularly for Africa.
“The developed North, which has substantial financial resources, has purchased the largest stocks, while we in Africa are struggling to get our fair share. The painful irony is that some of the clinical trials for these vaccines were carried out in Africa. In other cases, vaccines are packaged right here on the continent, yet we struggle to access them for our populations.
“This is one of the strategic opportunities we should address through advice and leadership of our AU subsidiary bodies. Our Agenda 2063 envisions a bold, confident, capable and efficient AU able to address tasks presented by an emergency of this enormity.”
The Minister stressed that beyond the pandemic, we also had to ensure the AU executed its agreed reform agenda effectively.
“We have adopted many decisions since launching the AU, yet we have not yet build fully functional machinery with quality execution, appropriate financial administration and management and a key focus on development.
“We have made progress in 2021. The implementation phase of the African Continental Free Trade Area is underway and that is history. We call on AU member states to finalise all the outstanding issues by June 2021, as agreed during the Extraordinary Summit of 5 December 2020. The vision of Agenda 2063 is realisable if we act with energy and determination.
“As South Africa relinquishes its Chairship, we cannot ignore the important issue of the budget situation of the organisation and its implications for the implementation of the priorities of the AU. We must become self-sufficient. Even more critical in the maintenance of peace and security on the continent is the Peace Fund. We continue to call on our fellow member states to contribute to the fund so as enable the continent to play a leading role in entrenching peace and security.
“We have entered a new year, a new focus and a new leadership. Our theme for this year is entitled: “Arts, Culture and Heritage: Levers for Building a Prosperous, Peaceful, Integrated and Resilient Africa in the Context of Multi-sectoral Challenges”. The theme highlights the contribution of arts, culture and heritage as catalysts for our socio-economic development and creates an opportunity for us to showcase these attributes.” |
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| SOUTH AFRICA TO NOMINATE CUBAN MEDICAL BRIGADE FOR NOBEL PEACE PRIZE |
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| The South African Government will nominate the Cuban Medical Brigade for the Nobel Peace Prize following its assistance in the fight against the spread of COVID-19. |
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The development was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address to the nation on Monday night, 1 February 2021.
“In recognition of this effort, the South African Cabinet has approved a proposal to nominate the Henry Reeve International Contingent of Doctors Specialised in Disaster Situations and Serious Epidemics – or as they commonly are known, the Cuban Medical Brigade – for the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize,” said the President.
When the country experienced a rise in COVID-19 infections in April last year, 217 Cuban doctors from various disciplines arrived to aid in the fight against the virus.
The brigade was then divided into groups and deployed to regions across the country.
The President described the intervention as “selfless” and “unwavering assistance” by the Government and people of Cuba.
“True to its history, this small island nation has demonstrated solidarity with the hardest-hit countries and sent more than 3 700 Cubans throughout the world to assist in the fight against COVID-19,” he said.
In Africa alone, the brigade had treated more than 38 000 people by the end of November 2020.
They are currently still active in many countries, including here in South Africa.
“We extend our sincerest gratitude to the people of Cuba for this great demonstration of solidarity and humanity. Like so many people around the world, we have suffered tremendous loss and endured great sacrifices.
Our lives have changed in profound ways, and we have been forced to adapt to a new and difficult circumstance,” said the President.
He hailed as heroic the “tireless” and “brave” efforts of the country’s healthcare workers, scientists and all frontline workers.
“[With] the determination of each and every South African, we can finally imagine a world where the virus has been brought under control. It is up to all of us to bring that world into being,” said President Ramaphosa
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| VACCINE ARRIVAL TESTAMENT TO "GOOD INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS" |
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| The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation, Tandi Mahambehlala, says the arrival of the first batch of COVID-19 vaccines from India signifies the success of South Africa’s approach to bilateral and multilateral relations. |
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“We congratulate the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, through its missions abroad, for their candid vaccine diplomacy. This has been demonstrated through its successful initiation of negotiations, which secured the first batch of COVID-19 vaccines for South Africa,” Mahambehlala said on Tuesday, 2 February 2021.
Mahambehlala said the arrival of the vaccines was significant and testament to the success of South Africa’s diplomatic relations.
“The importance of diplomacy has once again been proved and is apparent for all to see during this era of the pandemic. The country, under the capable stewardship of President Cyril Ramaphosa, should work hard to enhance bilateral and multilateral relations with countries and multinational pharmaceutical companies that have shown capability in manufacturing vaccines.”
On Monday, President Ramaphosa led a government delegation to welcome the arrival of the first batch of AstraZeneca vaccines from the Serum Institute of India. The vaccine has undergone successfully trials at Oxford University, with South Africa’s scientists making valuable contributions.
Mahambehlala extended gratitude to the friendly Government of India, calling the country a “true friend in need and a trusted partner in the BRICS [Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa] formation”.
Mahambehlala said South Africa would continue to play a role in making the vaccine available to neighbouring countries. The African Union (AU), which was chaired by South Africa when the pandemic struck, has worked to ensure that the continent gets its fair share of the vaccine, working with the COVAX Facility and led by the African Vaccine Acquisition Task Team.
Mahambehlala expressed her appreciation to President Ramaphosa’s successful chairing of the AU. South Africa Chairship of the AU comes to an end this week.
Cuba commended for immense sacrifice
Mahambehlala applauded the Cabinet decision to endorse and nominate the Cuban Medical Brigade, which is deployed throughout the world, for the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize.
“We thank these gallant heroes and heroines of Cuba for their selfless and unwavering sacrifice to assist the world in the fight against the Coronavirus,” Mahambehlala said.
About 200 Cuban doctors are deployed in South Africa to help in the fight against COVID-19.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA CONDEMNS THE DETENTION OF LEADERS IN MYANMAR |
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| The Government of the Republic of South Africa has noted with serious concern the detention of the State Counsellor, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, and other political leaders on the eve of the opening session of Myanmar's Parliament and calls for her immediate release and a return to the rule of law. |
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These developments undermine democratic reforms undertaken in Myanmar, following the general elections held on 8 November 2020, and we call upon the military to respect the rule of law.
South Africa firmly believes that political differences should be resolved through peaceful and inclusive dialogue.
South Africa will continue to support the people of Myanmar in their pursuit of democracy, peace, human rights and rule of law. |
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| SPECIAL OFFICIAL FUNERAL FOR LATE JUSTICE MTHIYANE |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa honoured the late Justice Khayelihle Kenneth Mthiyane by designating the judge’s funeral as a Special Official Funeral Category 2. |
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Justice Mthiyane was a retired former Deputy President of the Supreme Court of Appeal.
The President also authorised that the National Flag be flown at half-mast at every flag station in the country until the evening of Wednesday when the funeral service took place in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| TRIBUTES POUR IN FOR DR SIBONGILE KHUMALO |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to jazz and opera musician, Dr Sibongile Khumalo, for advocating for the rights of performing arts, women, as well as human rights. |
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Khumalo, an esteemed member of the Order of Ikhamanga, passed away on Thursday, 28 January 2021, at the age of 63.
“This is a moment of great sadness for all of us who were mesmerised and moved by the power, sensuality and improvisation of Khumalo’s unique voice.
“Not only was she an unmistakable voice on concert stages around our country and the world, but she was a voice of advocacy for the performing arts, for the rights and place of women in our society, and for human rights at large.
“As a music academic, she was also a voice of instruction and inspiration to new generations of artists who had the privilege of learning from a performer who was at the pinnacle of her career. We will miss her greatly,” the President said.
The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa, has expressed his deepest sympathies to the family, friends and fans of Khumalo.
“Khumalo was an ambassador of our heritage. A musical genius who enchanted diverse audiences all over South Africa and beyond. She will eternally be remembered for her repertory, which was similarly eclectic.
“She was a musical maestro who made it her life’s purpose to tell the story of our people through music. She left a legacy that will forever go down in the annals of history,” Minister Mthethwa said.
In 2009, Khumalo was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by Rhodes University. She was also awarded honorary doctorates by the University of South Africa (Doctor of Musicology), as well as the University of Zululand (Doctor of Philosophy).
“Most notably, she was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga in 2008, a South African honour that is granted by the President of South Africa for achievements in arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport.
“Khumalo was so passionate about music and heritage that at the age of 14, she knew she wanted to be an opera singer. Due to the lack of opportunities for people of colour at the time, she decided to teach music instead, going on to complete a Bachelor of Arts in Music at the University of Zululand and obtaining a Bachelor of Arts Honours from the University of the Witwatersrand,” the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture said.
Furthermore, she concentrated on the musical heritage of the Zulu, Sotho and Tsonga people.
“The department would like to extend its deepest sympathies to the family, friends and fans of the late Dr Sibongile Khumalo. May her soul rest in peace.”
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| COEGA BAGS MORE INVESTORS, EYES 100 NEW JOBS |
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| The Coega Development Corporation (CDC) – developer and operator of the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) – has signed four new investors that are estimated to be valued in excess of R49 million, and are expected to create about 100 new jobs. |
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CDC Unit Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications, Dr Ayanda Vilakazi, said the newly signed investors were an illustration of the dedication and hard work by various CDC stakeholders, amid a very difficult operating environment, to ensure the organisation’s investment- promotion initiatives bear fruit.
“While operating in a difficult economic environment due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the CDC has retained its 45 current operational investors and also brought home new ones,” Vilakazi said on Monday, 1 February 2021.
According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), as reported in the media, global foreign direct investment (FDI) collapsed in 2020, decreasing by 42% to an estimated US$859 billion, compared with about US$1.5 trillion in 2019.
In addition, the reports state that FDI finished the year more than 30% below the trough after the global financial crisis in 2009 and was back at a level last seen in the 1990s.
“However, the decline in developing economies was relatively less than that in developed countries at 12%, to an estimated US$616 billion. UNCTAD expects the global FDI trend to remain weak in 2021,” the CDC said.
The Coega SEZ has focussed on diversifying the economy through attracting investors from the multiple targeted investment sectors, such as the business process outsourcing, energy and automotive sectors.
The organisation continues on this trajectory, with the attainment of the new investors in a multiple sectors, such as manufacturing and logistics.
“The achievement of four new investors signed this year follows from the corporate performance results of the 2019/20 financial year, where the CDC created a total of 14 240 jobs (5 934 construction jobs and a further 8 306 operational jobs).
“In addition, the organisation signed new 12 investors last year valued at R719 million. Over the past five years, 77 new investors were signed, valued at R42.84 billion.
"Moreover, 6 591 people received training last year from the CDC, which includes those achieved through the Coega Development Foundation,” Vilakazi said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| TRANSNET NATIONAL PORTS AUTHORITY MOVE TO IMPROVE COMPETITIVENESS |
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| The Coega Development Corporation (CDC), developer and operator of the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ), has welcomed the move by Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) to relocate its head office to the Port of Ngqura. |
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“It’s a much-welcomed move and one the CDC looks forward to with keen interest, bearing in mind the symbiotic economic enabling relationship the CDC and Port of Ngqura have enjoyed over a long period of time,” CDC Unit Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications, Dr Ayanda Vilakazi, said on Wednesday, 27 January 2021.
He said the decision of the TNPA showed the commitment to be closer to clients, ensure the unblocking of projects and facilitate further the competitiveness of ports, impacting positively on the various port users.
“The TNPA provides the assurance that there are adequate, affordable, equitable and efficient port services and facilities available to the users of the ports. In addition, the TNPA provides high levels of service and increasing efficiency for a growing customer base, enhancing South Africa’s global competitiveness and facilitating the expansion of the South African economy through socially and environmentally sustainable port development,” Vilakazi said.
With the establishment of the Coega Project as far back as 1999, the Port of Ngqura has added tremendous value to the Coega SEZ due to its strategic location.
The CDC said the relocation of the head office to the Port of Ngqura was a critical enabler in tapping into the raw potential of the Eastern Cape economy, its role in improving the overall competitiveness of South Africa and unlock opportunities in the coastal regions, further realising the country’s strategy on the Oceans Economy.
The Coega SEZ sees itself as a crucial linkage to the Port of Ngqura, and the ground experience will be of benefit to the rest of the TNPA staff located here, as part of ongoing programmes to improve the competitiveness of South African ports.
“It is worth mentioning that there are various national strategic projects on which we are already collaborating with the TNPA, including the proposed Gas to Power Programme, following a declaration by national Government that the CDC will be the location for Liquefied Natural Gas Project through the allocation of 1000MW. The Port of Ngqura is required to play a pivotal role in laying the groundwork in preparing for the project,” Vilakazi said.
Moreover, the CDC is particularly keen to advance the Coega SEZ’s Transhipment-Hub Strategy, with Zone 1 (back of port operations) set aside as a maritime and logistics area that is integrated with the deep-water Port of Ngqura.
Vilakazi said the Transhipment Hub had proven to be successful in other countries like the Port of Singapore.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| RHINO POACHING DECLINES IN 2020 |
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| South Africa saw a marked decline in rhino poaching during 2020, with the killing of rhino declining by 33%. |
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“While the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the battle to beat the COVID-19 pandemic contributed in part to the decrease in rhino poaching in 2020, the role of rangers and security personnel who remained at their posts, and the additional steps taken by government to effectively deal with these and related offences, also played a significant role,” said Environment, Forestry and Fisheries Minister, Barbara Creecy on Monday, 1 February 2021.
During the various lockdown alert levels in 2020, the movement of alleged poachers and rhino horn smugglers was curtailed.
Alongside this, the steps to address rhino poaching and wildlife crime across the country were aligned to both the Integrated Strategic Management of Rhinoceros and the principles set out in the draft National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking (NISCWT).
After 10 years of implementing various strategies to combat rhino poaching by local poachers, who are recruited and managed by crime syndicates, South Africa managed to arrest the escalation of rhino losses, and has now seen a year-on-year reduction in the number of poached rhinos.
“While this success should be celebrated as a moderate win, we cannot become complacent as the escalating demand in consumer countries ensures a lucrative black market trade and thus relentless pressure on all resources to combat this organised crime.
“To move from the current moderate win to a strong win, we are focussing on a more proactive and integrated approach that builds on existing initiatives and blurs the distinction made between national, provincial and private parks, while increasing situational awareness.
“This Integrated Wildlife Zone approach prevents borders and boundaries from inhibiting planning and implementation to achieve maximum benefit,” the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries said in a statement.
During 2020, a reported 394 rhino were poached for their horn in South Africa. This is 33% less than the 594 killed in 2019. This marks the sixth year that rhino poaching has continued to decrease in South Africa.
A number of successful arrests and prosecutions have also been recorded in the past 12 months, giving credence to the integrated work of law enforcement agencies, including the police, the Hawks, SANParks, the Environmental Management Inspectorate (Green Scorpions), customs officials, South African National Defence Force, provincial park authorities and the National Prosecuting Authority.
From January to December 2020, a total of 66 alleged poachers were arrested within the Kruger National Park (KNP).
A total of 90 people were arrested for rhino poaching and rhino horn trafficking outside the KNP, and more than 25 major investigations were undertaken across the country.
A total of 45 cases were finalised with a verdict, while 44 convictions were obtained, representing a remarkable 97.8% conviction rate. The 44 convictions included 69 convicted accused.
Countries working together, sharing information and investigations to combat wildlife trafficking, remains a key to the success in combatting wildlife trafficking.
Within the region, information-sharing between Botswana, eSwatini, Kenya, Namibia, Mozambique and Zimbabwe continues to result in positive outcomes, while engagements with Vietnam have seen rhino samples submitted to the RHODIS DNA database for analysis and further investigation.
Malaysia and Singapore have also greatly assisted in several investigations and the submission of rhino horn samples to RHODIS. Information- sharing between South Africa, China and Hong Kong has begun to further enhance the ability to combat rhino horn trafficking.
NGOs and donors have identified various community developmental programmes, including awareness programmes, in provinces such as Mpumalanga, Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal and the North West, in collaboration with its partners, SANParks, provincial governments and neighbouring countries.
Members of the public can report any suspicious activities around wildlife to the environmental crime hotline on 0800 205 005 or the South African Police Service on 10111.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| YOUNG SOUTH AFRICAN CLIMATE ACTIVISTS JOIN EXPLORER RIAAN MANSER ON ANTARCTICA ADVENTURE |
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| Five environmentally minded youngsters recently set off with the explorer on an educational trip of a lifetime. |
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The five matrics from around South Africa joined Riaan Manser and a team from Stellenbosch University in Antarctica.
Ayakha Melithafa, from the Centre of Science and Technology (Cosat) in Khayelitsha, was one of the five matrics from the class of 2020 who left Cape Town on Tuesday, 26 January 2021, on the all-expenses-paid trip to Antarctica.
The matrics won their places after entering a competition, Manser’s brainchild, at the start of the lockdown in 2020. The competition drew more than 3 000 entries from across South Africa. Matrics had to answer this question:
“If saving nature and the environment is a world problem – how can YOU help? What can you do in your own hometown that you believe will make a positive impact on the planet and possibly Antarctica?”
The winners were announced on 11 January and flew out to Antarctica with the Antarctica Logistics Centre International (ALCI) to spend five days on the virtually uninhabited continent.
The team from Stellenbosch University was led by Professor Jonathan Jansen.
Ayakha was joined by Cobus Burger from Hoërskool Duineveld in the Northern Cape; Boiketlo Lamula from Sedaven High School in Gauteng; Thea Earnest from Mountview Secondary School in KwaZulu-Natal; and Kelby Barker from Diocesan School for Girls in the Eastern Cape.
Ayakha is a young climate justice activist whose entry focussed on her work as a spokesperson for the African Climate Alliance. In 2020, she attended the World Economic Forum in Switzerland to urge world leaders to take drastic action on the climate crisis.
In February, she will be inaugurated as a member of The Presidency’s Coordinating Committee on Climate Change. Like several pupils at Cosat, she is part of Project 90 by 2030, an organisation advocating for a sustainably developed and equitable low-carbon future.
Cosat principal, Phaldiela Cooper, said she was proud of Ayakha whose efforts were rewarded by her being chosen for this unique opportunity.
“I am very happy that a learner from Khayelitsha can represent the Western Cape. She has been working very hard in the community to bring attention to the climate crisis and urge people to take care of the environment.”
Fadli Wagiet from Stellenbosch University said he was impressed with the calibre of the winners. In the week before they left, the matrics were exposed to a holistic programme focussed on sustainability and alleviating poverty.
“Through this programme, we want to develop future leaders who are ethical and have a passion to be part of change. We expect the students to plough back what they have learnt in their communities and the projects that they are involved in,” Wagiet said.
“They are all very passionate about the environment and positive change. Our role is to facilitate and guide them.”
While in Antarctica, the pupils conducted experiments and went on an overnight adventure camp. They learned about Antarctica and the scientific research being done there, while also being enriched through personal development.
Manser said the trip was focussed on environmental education and enrichment, exploration and developing future leaders with a strong environmental ethos.
“The group will be challenged to craft solutions to environmental issues such as pollution, water scarcity, food security and finding sustainable energy sources while including people and planet health.”
– Source: www.thesouthafrican.com |
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| AFTER RAISING R1.5 MILLION FOR ARTISTS IN 2020, A 2021 AUCTION WILL CONTINUE THE SUPPORT |
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| Over 500 grants were given to struggling artists during the 2020 lockdown to the value of R1.5 million; now the same is being done for 2021. |
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Two organisations, The Lockdown Collection (TLC) and Latitudes Online, have gone above and beyond to create exciting opportunities and financial stability for South African artists. In April 2020, TLC curated and auctioned a collection of COVID-19-related artworks by renowned South African artists, with the proceeds going into a fund that would support artists during the pandemic.
The auction was so successful that the team extended the project with The Extension Collection and The Student Collection. To date, TLC has paid out over 500 grants – an amount of R1,5 million to date – from its Vulnerable Artists Fund (VAF) to artists across South Africa. It also donated R250 000 to the President’s SA Solidarity Fund, for the benefit of all South Africans in need.
Latitudes launched in 2019 as a physical art fair, and when COVID-19 hit, the team acted quickly and decisively, transforming their offering into a year-round online marketplace for art from Africa. Latitudes Online has brought together over 160 sellers of art, creating a powerful platform which galleries, curators, studios, organisations and, perhaps most importantly of all, during these times, independent artists, can take advantage of to sell their art online.
Since its launch in July, the platform has been viewed in 123 of 195 countries, and has shipped works on a daily basis to countries as far afield as the United States of America, New Zealand, Reunion, Morocco, Italy, France and Hong Kong.
In March 2021, the two organisations are coming together to host an online auction created by 21 South African artists. The new collection – called The Open Call Collection – is the result of a beautiful synergy: TLC called for new artwork donations and submissions from South African artists. Latitudes carefully considered each of the hundreds of submissions, before selecting 21 inspiring artworks for the collection.
This extraordinary curated collection will be auctioned online, via the Latitudes Online platform, on 21 March, 2021. The proceeds will be split between the contributing artists, the Lockdown Collection’s VAF, Latitudes Outreach and Artist Proof Studio.
It’s no accident that the team has opted to launch the auction on South Africa’s Human Rights Day. This date holds so much significance; it recognises and celebrates the power that people have, for positive change.
Artists featured in this new collection include Thuli Libisi, Cinthia Sifa Mulanga, Vivien Kohler, Fanie Buy and Puleng Mongale, to name a few and with the full collection to be released in the coming weeks.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| LOCAL CAPE TOWN LOW-ALCOHOL BRAND TAKES TOP HONOURS GLOBALLY |
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| Local premium non-alcoholic spirits, Abstinence (Cape Spice, Cape Citrus and Cape Fynbos, as well as Abstinence Blood Orange Aperitif), have all taken home medals at the inaugural international Low-and No Alcohol Masters Competition of 2021. |
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Hosted by the globally-renowned drinks authority, The Spirits Business, the blind tastings took place in the United Kingdom, first neat and then with the suggested mixer pairing.
Abstinence competed with just over 50 entries in the White Spirits Category (0.5% ABV and Under), taking home two gold medals (for Abstinence Cape Citrus and Cape Spice) and a silver medal for the newly-launched Cape Fynbos.
The judges were particularly impressed with Abstinence Cape Spice, remarking: “Dried floral notes and woody, bark, slightly sweet spice. The palate neat is quite nice; there is a touch of bitterness and a little hit of spice on the back of the mouth. Tonic brings out a lovely sweetness that complements the woody notes of the sample. Quite refreshing, could be used for more grown-up complex zero ABV cocktails”.
Abstinence Blood Orange Apéritif competed against 27 entrants in the Non‐Alcoholic Apéritifs Category (0.5% ABV and Under) and impressed the judges with “light aromas of blood orange on the nose, and the introduction of bitterness on the palate”.
As a top performer in the category, Abstinence also achieved a gold medal.
The Abstinence team has even more reasons to celebrate (for which they suggest pairing Abstinence Blood Orange Apéritif with a non-alcoholic bubbly); they’ve also recently been named The Pick n Pay Small Supplier of the Year in recognition of their passion, dedication and achievements in building the non-alcoholic category in 2020.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SHABNIM ISMAIL BECOMES FIRST SA WOMAN TO CLAIM 100 T20I WICKETS |
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| Shabnim Ismail became only the fourth woman in Twenty20 international cricket to claim 100 wickets at Kingsmead recently. |
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Proteas fast bowler Shabnim Ismail became only the fourth woman in Twenty20 international cricket to claim 100 wickets as she helped her side beat Pakistan.
The Proteas cantered to victory by eight wickets in their T20I series-opener at Kingsmead Stadium in Durban on Friday.
Tazmin Brits also struck an unbeaten 52 off 54 balls (three fours), as South Africa comfortably chased down a 125-run victory target with six deliveries to spare.
Brits formed one half of a key 69-run second-wicket partnership with Marizanne Kapp. All-rounder Kapp was another player that enjoyed a stellar game ending as the pick of the bowlers with three for 24 on top of striking 28 off 27 balls with the bat.
Before that, however, it was Ismail who claimed the accolades by joining the rare 100 club that so far includes just three others: West Indian Anisa Mohammed (120), Australia’s Ellyse Perry (114) and Anya Shrubsole (102) of England. Pakistan’s Nida Dar, who played in the match is on 98 wickets herself.
Ismail returned figures of two for 20 in four overs to ensure that the tourists did not runaway towards a big total after Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first.
Pakistan lost wickets regularly throughout and had to rely on middle-order trio of Kainat Imtiaz (24), Ayesha Naseem (31) and Nida Dar (22) not out to get them to a competitive total. Only Muneeba Ali (21) among the top four managed to cross the 20 mark.
Apart from Kapp and Ismail, Ayabonga Khaka (1/24) and Masabata Klaas (1/22) also managed a wicket each.
– Source: www.thesouthafrican.com |
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| SPRINGBOK WOMEN WILL FACE FRANCE IN RUGBY WORLD CUP OPENER |
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| The Springbok Women will hit the ground running at the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand in September after being drawn to face France in their opening match in Auckland. |
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The team will play the French, who are currently in fourth place on the Women’s World Rankings, at Eden Park – the venue of the 2011 Rugby World Cup final for men – on Saturday, 18 September, at 04h15 (SA time) in their opening Pool C encounter.
This will be followed by matches against England – the No 1 team in the world – on Thursday, 23 September, at 09h15 at the Northland Events Centre in Whangarei, and Fiji on Tuesday, 28 September, at the Waitakere Stadium in Auckland at 05h45.
The four last-placed teams will return home at the conclusion of the pool stage, with the top eight teams advancing to the quarter-finals on Sunday, 3 October.
The semi-finals and final will play out at Eden Park on consecutive Saturdays, 9 and 16 October, respectively.
Springbok Women’s coach, Stanley Raubenheimer, welcomed the announcement of the match dates and times and said it would provide more direction in their planning in the lead-up to the international spectacle.
“The match dates and times will enable us to be more focussed in our planning because we now have clarity on what we have to do within the relevant timelines,” said Raubenheimer.
“That said, it won’t necessarily change much, but it certainly helps to know that we will face France in our opening match, so we can plan accordingly.”
Raubenheimer didn’t attach much significance to the fact that they would kick off their campaign against two of the top four teams in the world: “It doesn’t make much of a difference to us because the fact of the matter is that they are in our pool and we would have to face them at some stage.
“We will forge ahead with our preparations in the next few months and ensure that we take each match in our stride.”
The Springbok Women stepped up their preparations for the tournament early in January with a training camp in Stellenbosch, which will run until the end of March.
– Source: www.sapeople.com |
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