Member states of the UN are this week participating in the annual General Debate of the UNGA taking place from 18 to 26 September 2023.

The President delivered the South Africa statement to the UNGA on Tuesday, 19 September 2023.

The address to the UNGA was preceded by a number of high-level engagements.

These included summits on Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health; Sustainable Development Goals; a High-Level Dialogue on Financing for Development; as well as the Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response and Climate Ambition Summit hosted by the UN Secretary-General.

President Ramaphosa also led discussions during the Presidential Roundtable that was hosted by the United States (US) Chamber of Commerce and US-Africa Business Centre.

In addition, the President’s programme also included several bilateral meetings on the sidelines of UNGA.

UNGA78 is convened under the auspices of Rebuilding Trust and Reigniting Global Solidarity: Accelerating Action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development towards Peace, Prosperity, Progress and Sustainability for All.

The theme has been set by the incoming President of the UNGA, Ambassador Dennis Francis of Trinidad and Tobago.

South Africa’s participation at the UN is directed by its international relations policy objectives of, among others:

• mobilising support for South Africa’s domestic objectives, as outlined in the National Development Plan, including reducing inequality, unemployment and poverty eradication
• support for the African Agenda and promoting Africa’s sustainable development by advocating for Africa’s priorities under the African Union (AU) Agenda 2063
• influencing the reform of the global multilateral architecture
• advancing the agenda of the South in the North-South Dialogue platform.

The Ministerial delegation in support of the South Africa's participation to UNGA78 consists of the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor;  Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel; Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, Barbara Creecy; Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla; Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni; and Minister in The Presidency for Planning , Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopha.

Read the full speech: >Click here<

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on heads of state and government to join the Global Leaders Network to champion the women, children and adolescent health agenda.

The President was addressing the High-Level Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH) event on Monday, 18 September 2023, at the United Nations Children’s Fund headquarters in New York.

“As heads of state, we can provide leadership and inspire ambitious action. We have the convening power to mobilise our peers and advance policies, programmes and financing initiatives for improved outcomes.

“As part of our agenda, we must challenge the disregard in many communities and countries for the sexual and reproductive health and rights of women,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President spent the first and second day of his Working Visit to the United States (US) for the 78th United Nations (UN) General Assembly discussing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and investments in South Africa.

On Sunday, President Ramaphosa held a bilateral meeting with Professor Klaus Schwab, CEO of the World Economic Forum (WEF), to discuss South Africa’s participation in the WEF and the progress the country is making on the reforms aimed at advancing inclusive economic growth.

The President also met with US Congressman, Gregory Meeks. Both President Ramaphosa and Congressman Meeks acknowledged the need for greater cooperation between the US and South Africa in tackling global issues that are impacting the African continent, primarily, the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on Africa.

“Congressman Meeks welcomed the briefing on the conclusion of the investigation into the docking of the LadyR vessel in Simon’s Town, South Africa, and expressed his commitment to contributing to the strengthening of US-Africa diplomatic and trade relations, and to attending the African Growth and Opportunity Act Forum in South Africa later this year,” The Presidency said.

President Ramaphosa concluded his first day of engagements with a meeting with the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres.

The two leaders discussed developments related to the reform of the international financial architecture and other initiatives in support of the SDG's, as well as the reform of the UN Security Council. The Secretary General commended South Africa for its important role in advancing these efforts. 

The President also delivered remarks at the SDG Summit, where he joined the call to address the fundamental development challenges that have long characterised an unequal world.

“The President emphasised the need for targeted investment, technology transfer and capacity-building support, especially in key areas such as industrialisation, infrastructure, agriculture, water, energy, education and health. The President further underscored the requirement for sustained financial support, including supportive trade policies from the international community,” The Presidency said.

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

“The significant presence of US companies operating in South Africa, including Ford, Coca-Cola, Pepsico, Procter & Gamble, Google, Amazon and Walmart, among many others, forms a base for increased investment,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa said he was pleased to hear that the US Africa Business Council and Business Unity South Africa would be hosting the inaugural business and investment forum on the margins of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum scheduled to be held in South Africa in November 2023.

He said this platform would present the countries’ respective governments, private sectors and civil society with numerous opportunities to advance trade and investment relations.

“I look forward to our discussions and encourage your candid views. I also look forward to welcoming all of the companies present here today to South Africa in November this year during the AGOA Forum … I look forward to building and strengthening business relationships that will accelerate growth, enable commercial success and ensure prosperity for both our countries,” President Ramaphosa said.

Global prosperity

The President told the business representatives that global prosperity had been founded on greater levels of openness and engagement between nations and people.

He said in recent decades, a more open, rules-based trading system, complemented by deeper levels of cross-border investment, had helped to sustain and grow global gross domestic product (GDP).

He said it had helped to increase employment in many countries and spur innovation and new technologies.

“Yet, the heightened tension of this moment has led to fragmentation, hostility and increasing protectionism. For South Africa, a divided world is not a good thing. We are a trading nation, with above average trade-to-GDP ratios. A significant part of our economic growth is driven by exports.

“We believe that the voices advocating greater dialogue and continued economic engagement between nations need to be strengthened,” he said.

Trade and investment agenda

Turning to the trade and investment agenda, President Ramaphosa said that they were finalising the modalities for the imminent launch of trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“We expect that the first goods to be traded under this free trade pact would commence within the next six months or sooner. The AfCFTA, as it is called, will cover 1.3 billion consumers in countries possessing some of the world’s most valuable minerals and raw materials,” he said.

South Africa is working with the US Administration to make the case for the extension of AGOA to current beneficiary countries for a further period of 10 years, prior to its expiry in 2025, President Ramaphosa said.

He emphasised that the US remained a very important economic partner in trade and investment, with great potential to further expand economic ties.

Accompanying this trade agenda, the President said government had embarked on far-reaching economic reforms, including the energy market being restructured.

Economic reform agenda

Turning to the economic reforms agenda, President Ramaphosa said the country was also focussing on expanding its industrial capacity.

“The availability of critical raw materials in South Africa and in neighbouring countries is driving efforts to expand high-value manufacturing. This is a real opportunity for more US investment that can leverage off the demonstrated manufacturing base of South Africa.

“African growth rates provide a stable growth in aggregate demand over the next decade and more,” he said.

The recently published African Economic Outlook for 2023 noted: “Growth is projected to rebound to 4% in 2023 and consolidate at 4.3% in 2024, underpinning Africa’s continued resilience to shocks.”

The report goes on to say that Africa is endowed with 30% of the world’s mineral resources and 65% of the world’s uncultivated arable land, the world’s most productive forests both in timber and carbon retention resources, and ample solar, wind and hydropower.

“With this kind of potential, savvy investors will be expanding … their base in South Africa and the rest of the continent.

“Our economic reform agenda also includes targeted measures to open the market for more South Africans to participate,” he said.

The President told the business leaders that South Africa had increased its target for its investment drive to R2 trillion over the next five years.

“To appreciate the great opportunities in our economy, I invite you to the next South Africa Investment Conference, to be held in March 2024,” he said.

The investment drive includes an expansion of special economic zones, the most recent of which was built around the Ford Motor Company plant in the capital city, Pretoria. Around 10 large factories now produce components for the scaled-up Ford plant.

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

The Deputy President told the delegates that South Africa was looking into providing the Southeast Asian country with agricultural agro-processing products.

“Vietnam is also interested in acquiring coal from South Africa and we’ll be able to provide that.”

While bilateral relations have been characterised by “good progress”, the country’s second-in-charge is of the view that there is room for improvement in some areas. “There will be areas, Vice President, where we will continue to ask for your support. But we want in particular to work with Vietnam on a number of peace initiatives that we’re engaged with. We’re aware that Vietnam supports our peace initiatives on the African continent,” he said.

The two nations are celebrating 30 years of diplomatic relations and the Official Visit aimed to reinvigorate and strengthen friendship ties and solidarity as well as to consolidate the multifaceted partnership further.

“I would like to take this opportunity to extend my utmost gratitude and sincere appreciation to you for graciously accepting and honouring my humble invitation for an Official Visit.”

He also thanked Vietnam for supporting South Africa to be part of the sectoral dialogue partner of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ESEAN), which was approved recently.

Vietnam is South Africa’s fifth-largest trading partner in the ASEAN region.

Total bilateral trade between South Africa and Vietnam in 2022 was valued at R23.8 billion, with imports from Vietnam valued at R18.5 billion and exports to Vietnam valued at R5.2 billion.

The Deputy President told the Vice President that South Africa placed great significance on their “enduring” and “robust” relationship with Vietnam.

“Our relations are based on strong historical ties, solidarity and the integral role Vietnam played in the fight against colonialism and racial discrimination”.

He also reflected on the bilateral relationship that had evolved and strengthened over the years, resulting in a diverse and multifaceted partnership characterised by enhanced collaboration in several domains.

He said this included rapid progress in people-to-people links and strong government-to-government relations.

“As we move forward, it is our sincere hope that these networks, which have already demonstrated their immense potential, will not only maintain their current level of strength and stature but also experience significant and continuous growth in the years to come.”

Deputy President Mashatile said he was pleased that some of the leaders in government had also further consolidated their relations in the energy, mineral resources and higher education sectors.

“South Africa has prioritised new investments as a source of economic growth stimulation with a view to create jobs and reduce poverty and inequality by promoting investment, improving our competitiveness and leveraging technology and innovation.

“Your presence here highlights the importance that both our countries attach to deepening and broadening our existing bilateral relations, especially in growing our trade and economic ties.”

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

Speaking at the General Debate at the Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Group of 77 (G77) + China, the Minister said that there “is no doubt science technology and innovation are strategic levers for development”.

“The struggle for the soul of the South and for unilateral global dominance has never been more intense and as the South, we must seize this historic moment to ensure we develop the ability to be free agents of a development agenda that will advance our battle against poverty inequality and unemployment,” she said.

Minister Pandor was representing President Cyril Ramaphosa at the two-day Summit of Heads of State and Government of the G77+ China in Havana, Cuba. The summit began on Friday, 15 September 2023.

“Effective support for science research, innovation and digital technologies has the potential to advance these objectives but it must be buttressed by effective organisation, coordination and well-crafted G77 science diplomacy. South Africa confirmed the efficacy of science diplomacy in our collaboration in genomic sequencing research that assisted us in combatting COVID-19.

“Increased attention must be given to ensuring we have a science and innovation ecosystem that can support our ambition,” she said at the debate on Saturday, 16 September 2023.

The Minister said investment in research universities, increased graduation of science and technology researchers at PhD level, centres of excellence and the building of robust science councils were needed.

She also spoke of ensuring equal access to science and innovation for women and girls.

“Since the achievement of freedom and democracy in 1994, South Africa has increased investment in research, development and innovation. Funding to create 90 centres of excellence has been provided as well as support for thousands of young people to study for PhDs in science, engineering, economics, humanities and technology. The support has included investment in young women scientists.”

Government has also funded over 200 research chairs and attracted local and international talent to these chairs.

She added that science partnerships between researchers and university systems must be formed drawing on the successes of Cuba, China and India.

“Greater focus must be given to Africa expanding its science and innovation ecosystem and to using science to resolve our most intractable challenges.”

“Mr President, science and innovation will provide the means to grow a green economy in the South, to increase productive capacity and high value addition to our mineral wealth.

“Alongside pursuing this important agenda let us also reinforce our commitment to effective reform of the United Nations mechanisms, especially the Security Council and also actively jointly advance the fundamental reform of international development finance institutions,” she said.

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

“The BRICS Games will showcase various sporting disciplines, including tennis, table tennis, beach volleyball, swimming and badminton. We have heard of the impressive badminton prowess of China's Fujian province and hope to see an exhilarating competition between our teams in this sport during the games,” Minister Kodwa said.

While Fujian is known for being strong in badminton, the province is also home to sportswear company, Kelme, which has supported some sports teams in South Africa.

Governor Long shared that Fujian had seen extensive development and growth, and that the province had invaluable assets in theory and practice.

“The Republic of South Africa and the People’s Republic of China enjoy a remarkable and enduring relationship. I am encouraged by the continued support by Fujian entities, such as Kelme, to support our sports clubs to improve the sporting sector,” Minister Kodwa said.

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

The year 2023 marks the 32nd anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between South Africa and Argentina.

Diplomatic ties between the two countries that had existed since September 1947 were severed in May 1986 by the first democratically elected President of Argentina, Raúl Alfonsín, who also spoke up and instituted punitive trade and other sanctions against the apartheid government in South Africa.

Since 1994, bilateral relations between the two countries have strengthened and cover a wide range of areas of cooperation under the umbrella of the Bi-National Commission that was established in September 2005.

Argentina is South Africa’s second-largest trading partner in Latin America and the Caribbean region. Trade between the two countries is also conducted under the framework of the Southern African Customs Union-Common Market of the South Preferential Trade Agreement.

At multilateral level, the two countries share a commitment to the values of democracy, South-South cooperation, respect for human rights, the rule of international law, peaceful resolution of conflicts and multilateralism. This is evident in the two countries’ close cooperation at the Group of 20, United Nations (UN) and UN Human Rights Council.

Following the recent BRICS Summit decision to invite Argentina to join BRICS, cooperation will extend to BRICS with effect from January 2024.

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

The purpose of the project is to support children and teachers in local schools and improve their learning environment.

Minister De Lille said all the provinces had the “most amazing hidden gems” and that government was on a mission to highlight these hidden gems and showcase them to all of South Africa and the world.

She said tourism brought immense benefits to host communities and that these benefits must be felt in even the most remote of areas.

“We couldn’t have chosen a better province to do this than the province so rich in history and unparalleled beauty,” Minister De Lille said.

She said with over 800 kilometres of awe-inspiring coastline, the Eastern Cape province boasted some of the country’s most stunning beaches.

“Its landscapes are adorned with jaw-dropping rock formations and its ecosystems teem with a magnificent diversity of flora and fauna.

“What sets the Eastern Cape apart is its unique offering of the ‘Big 7’ – a thrilling roster that includes lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, buffalos, Southern Right whales and Great White sharks.

“We all know the province, the home province of Tata Nelson Mandela, but it is equally known for its warm and welcoming people, who extend generous hospitality to all.

“In most successful tourism destinations worldwide, the domestic market serves as the bedrock of the tourism industry,” Minister de Lille said.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when international travel faced severe restrictions due to global travel bans, the tourism sector leaned heavily on domestic tourism to sustain itself.

The Minister thanked local travellers who nonetheless explored the country when conditions permitted.

According to the Minister, in the first half of 2023, South Africans took 18.8 million domestic overnight trips (up 23.4%) when compared to the first half of 2022. Overnight spend was also up by 21.2% to reach R52.2 billion.

South Africans spent 65.7 million nights away from home ‒ an increase of 24.4% ‒ when compared to the first half of 2022.

Minister de Lille said they wanted to use the Summer Campaign to further foster a culture of travel among South Africans.

“We understand that for this to be effective, ensuring affordability of travel should be at the forefront of our efforts.

“We are well aware that consumers are grappling with the challenges of a high cost of living. Consumers are facing an overall rise in the cost of living, driven by escalating fuel prices and interest rate hikes, among others,” the Minister said.

Minister de Lille said to respond to the high cost of living, the tourism industry continued to explore creative ways in which to make travel more affordable.

From January to July 2023, a total of 4.8 million international tourists arrived in South Africa, signifying a remarkable 70.6% surge compared to the same period in 2022.

During Africa’s Travel Indaba in May this year, a significant milestone was reached when various stakeholders, including industry representatives and operators, came together to endorse the inclusivity pledge.

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

“The collaboration between Novo Nordisk, a global leader in diabetic research and innovation, and Aspen, Africa's largest pharmaceutical manufacturer, will facilitate the production of human insulin,” Minister Patel said.

“Aspen will produce this under a contract with Novo Nordisk. We are optimistic that this partnership will significantly enhance access to insulin treatment not just in South Africa, but also across the continent,” Minister Patel said.

The contract will enable the local production of human insulin in South Africa through the conversion of insulin into finished dose vials. The collaboration will aim to supply over one million patients – 16 million doses in 2024 with a further upscaling to four million patients in 2026.

“The COVID-19 pandemic taught us that science and innovation can provide humanity with significant tools to fight disease and ill-health, enabling productive lives for people across the world.

“As populations expand, and lifestyles and diets change, we face a rising tide of non-communicable diseases. These diseases are chronic in nature and place a significant burden on communities and families, as well as on health systems, the fiscus and economies.

“This is an excellent first step that we hope will pave the way for both licensing and additional manufacturing opportunities, in areas such as sterile cartridge production and the production of high-demand and the new classes of drugs, such as the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which is largely inaccessible at present to African patients,” the Minister said.

The production of insulin will utilise Aspen’s sterile infrastructure in the city of Gqeberha in South Africa, including some of the infrastructure that was used for COVID-19 vaccine manufacture. Aspen will deploy 250 people for this production, which will commence in early 2024 and will reduce the transport-related carbon footprint by 68%.

Africa’s population of 1.4 billion people is a vast market and provides the commercial rationale for production in Africa for Africa and the world.

Production on the African continent will reduce the growing pharmaceutical trade deficit that both South Africa and the continent experience – Africa imports 99% of its vaccines and around 80% of its pharmaceutical requirements.

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

“I am pleased to note that National Parks Week has gripped the imagination of some of our provincial conservation authorities, with the Limpopo Tourism Agency and North West Tourism and Parks Board joining to host Mahala Week where select game reserves in the provinces are offering free access as well,” Minister Creecy said.

The Minister said conservation and the protection of the country’s rich biodiversity were commitments that must be achieved, especially as government works towards expanding the conservation estate to meet international commitments and work to protect the natural world in a sustainable way for current and future generations.

Under the established theme Know Your National Parks, this year’s SA National Parks Week campaign kicked off in the Kruger National Park.

This world-renowned park is not only South Africa’s first national park but is also the largest spanning 19 458 square kilometres.

The Kruger is the sixth-largest national park in Africa and not only boasts the iconic Big Five alongside a wide variety of wildlife and plants but is also home to unique landscapes and biomes.

“SANParks is among our institutions that is reliant on revenue generated from its tourism offerings and other activities. Tourism is an important part of our country’s economy and contributes significantly to gross domestic product and job creation.

“As a preferred tourist destination, we should not lose sight of the importance of continuing to find innovative ways to continue to grow this sector. Key to this remains the partnerships between government, communities and the private sector. It is thus important to acknowledge the much-needed assistance from the National Department of Tourism, which has supported several infrastructure projects in our national parks,” the Minister said.

She said R273 million was spent on 863 small, medium and micro enterprises through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), creating more than 5 364 full-time equivalent work opportunities in communities where there is little other formal employment.

“Every day, an average of 7 500 individuals employed by the EPWP enter our national parks and do crucial work such as land rehabilitation, cleaning of beaches, support of rangers and infrastructure maintenance,” Minister Creecy said.

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

Under the agreement, the German Government, through KfW, will provide South Africa with €20 million for vaccine production over a period of five years.

The grant is exclusively for financing equipment for the development, production and certification of active pharmaceutical ingredients for vaccine production in South Africa.

Announcing the signing of the agreement, Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, said the grant would  be used, among other things, to support the mRNA technology transfer hub that South Africa is hosting for the World Health Organisation (WHO) and to build vaccine-manufacturing capacity in low and middle-income countries, “although it will go beyond this in providing support”.

“The objective of the technology transfer hub is to establish or enhance sustainable mRNA vaccine manufacturing capacity in regions with no or limited capacity, introduce new technologies in low and middle-income countries, promote regional research and development, strengthen regional bio manufacturing know-how and workforce development and develop regulatory capabilities to support and accelerate regional approval and distribution of mRNA vaccines,” Minister Nzimande said.

In response to the WHO decision made during the COVID-19 pandemic, Minister Nzimande said the German Government indicated its commitment to supporting vaccine production in South Africa.

The agreement, signed on 25 July 2023, makes the DSI the recipient of KfW financial support on behalf of the South African Government and recognises the DSI and its Director-General, Dr Phil Mjwara, as the custodian and leader of the South African vaccine manufacturing strategy.

The Minister said the German decision to work with the department could be seen as a vote of confidence in its leadership's management of international funds.

"The German investment will build on the strategic investments by DSI and other partners and KfW has agreed to work in alignment with the South African vaccine-manufacturing strategy," Minister Nzimande said, adding that the funding could support catalytic initiatives under this strategy.

The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) will be the project executing agency and will report to the DSI through a steering committee.

SAMRC President and CEO, Professor Glenda Gray, said, the council was delighted to be part of the programme, which will provide critical support to establishing a vaccine-manufacturing industry in sub-Saharan Africa.

“In addition to complementing the activities of the mRNA hub programme, this partnership will seek to provide critical support in filing gaps in the pre-clinical research domain,” Professor Gray said.   

KfW will appoint an implementation consultant to support the KfW and assist the SAMRC.

The consultant will be responsible for providing sector-specific support for project planning, management, monitoring and evaluation, among others.

Ambassador Andreas Peschke from the German Embassy in Pretoria, reiterated the important role played by South Africa in strengthening continental vaccine-manufacturing capacities, indicating that “the country is at the very forefront of continental efforts for local pharmaceutical and vaccine research and production.”

“[South Africa’s] world-class research institutions and a solid industry meet the prerequisites for independent vaccine research, development and production,” Ambassador Peschke said.

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

“The 2024 Vice Chair will be the incredibly energetic Dr Mashilo Boloka, CEO of the South African Film and Publication Board.  We will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder in working together to work towards creating a safer, more positive online world,” Inman-Grant said.

Dr Boloka’s appointment follows the FPB’s acceptance as a member of the GORSN earlier in July 2023. 

The network was established in November 2022 to promote online safety and share information and good practice around online regulation. 

Dr Boloka said the network represented a collaborative initiative to fight the borderless online harms, pursue harmonisation to avoid fragmentation of online safety legislation and coordinated online safety measures.

“As the FPB of South Africa, we are excited to be a member of this network. As the only representative on the African continent, we will ensure that the voice of other regulators on the continent and the other developing worlds is heard.

“We will persuade other regulators on the continent to join the network so that they can seize the opportunities it provides, information-sharing on experiences and best practices so that we can together promote a safer online environment and fight online harms wherever it exists,” Dr Boloka said.

During the London meeting, the network discussed the need to promote regulatory coherence and underscored the importance of collaboration on shared issues, including industry engagement and new and emerging technology. 

It also agreed on creation of a technology and public education working group.

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

Her dedication to environmental preservation was also acknowledged in M&G’s Greening the Future Awards in 2022; a culmination of the many hats of leadership the artivist has worn in non-profit spaces focussed on conservation and green entrepreneurship, including being the head of Membership for the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa.

From her numerous green journeys and insights, she became inspired to create “The Last Correspondent”, which has been described as a luminous testament to her deepest aspirations and unwavering dedication.

Of the recent catalyst that inspired her work, Botha shares:

“In the latter half of 2022, I dedicated a significant portion of my time to documenting the impacts of climate change and profiling the work of the UN Development Programme in South Africa, particularly their contributions to South Africa’s Climate Promise and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

“This journey took me across thousands of miles of road, including remote areas like the Richtersveld near the Namibian border. Throughout this journey, I witnessed both the breathtaking wonders and devastating effects of climate change on my country, notably in the Northern Cape where iconic plant species like the quiver tree faces potential threats due to shifting climate conditions.”

It was during these transformative experiences that the artivist drew her inspiration to create art that stands not just as something for the eyes to behold, but for leaders to consider at all costs.

For Botha, her art is a plea to world leaders, urging them to heed the call for transformative change in climate action and the very urgent need for global sustainability.

“In my eyes, true sustainability can only be achieved by actively supporting and empowering the youth to innovate and create a world that aligns with our vision, transcending the boundaries set by international agreements like the Paris Agreement.

“I firmly believe that unlocking our collective imagination and taking bold actions are the keys to realising the world we want for our children and experiencing it ourselves in our lifetime.” ‒ Natania Botha.

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

On Thursday, 14 September 2023, T4 Education’s 2023 World’s Best Schools’ top three were announced and SPARK Soweto, an independent, partially government-funded facility, is one of the three shortlisted in the Community Collaboration Category.

SPARK Soweto in Johannesburg earned one of the top spots for its collaborative approach to building a village for its young students based on SPARK’s core principles – Service, Persistence, Achievement, Responsibility and Kindness.

“I am profoundly honoured and humbled by our school’s recognition as one of the top three in the world. This achievement is a testament to the unwavering dedication and hard work of our entire school community, including scholars, teachers, staff, parents and supporters. We are committed to continuing our pursuit of excellence in education and ensuring that every student reaches their full potential. This nomination inspires us to reach even greater heights and continue making a positive impact on the lives of our students and society,” says Stacey Brewer, co-founder and CEO of SPARK Schools.

SPARK Soweto opened in January 2019 and is the 20th school in the SPARK Schools network. It is located in the west of Soweto.

In June this year, T4 Education, in partnership with Templeton World Charity Foundation, Accenture and American Express, revealed their 2023 top contenders under five categories: Community Collaboration; Environmental Action; Innovation; Overcoming Adversity; and Supporting Healthy Lives.

T4 is an internal education organisation, which celebrates and encourages the efforts of schools around the world to empower the next generation. It focusses on new technologies and innovative practices to tackle the global sustainability issues affecting the world.

The Best School Prizes celebrate the enormous contributions schools make towards progress in society.

Nthambeleni Nyambeni, principal of SPARK Schools Soweto, explains some of the reasons behind her school’s global recognition “We are committed to empowering Soweto, and its surrounds, through affordable education and resources, environmental care and hiring undergraduates from our community to help them grow from and with the community.

“We believe in making a real difference to the education sector in our country through our innovative approach to learning. Our model provides access to high-quality education at an affordable cost and provides globally competitive education to South African families who perhaps previously were unable to access it,” she says.

The ultimate winner of the T4 Education 2023 World’s Best Schools will be announced on 4 November 2023.

– Source: www.goodthungsguy.com

“Continuing his groundbreaking Saturday night residency in the Theatre, Global house innovator, Black Coffee, will fill the futuristic room with his refined Afropolitan house, immersive production and unexpected special guests.

Black Coffee’s sought-after Saturday residency at the club on the Spanish island, hosts him annually from around May to end of September. His last show in Ibiza will take place just seven days before he headlines at Madison Square Garden.

But before his last performance in Hï Ibiza, the renowned music producer will return home to get an official send off, where he will host a party with some of his artist friends.

“Black Coffee has announced not only will Bucie, Pansula and Ribatone be joining him on stage in NYC but they will also be performing alongside Black Coffee at the ultimate send-off party on the 28th of September at an undisclosed Joburg venue,” averred the statement.

– Source: www.citizen.co.za

Its summary of the critical consensus is: “One Piece captures the essence of its beloved source material with a charmingly big-hearted adaptation that should entertain longtime fans as well as patient newcomers.”

Overall, One Piece accumulated over 280 million hours watched by 37.8 million viewers in less than two weeks of its release.

Netflix said that One Piece was its biggest-ever production in Africa, spending over US$48.7 million (R897 million) on local suppliers.

This is according to Netflix’s socio-economic impact report for South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya. Currency conversions between US dollar and rand were done in April 2023.

Netflix said it used 625 local suppliers, mostly small, medium and micro enterprises.

It estimated that One Piece created 1 000 full-time equivalent jobs in South Africa, of which 27% were women.

Looking through the show’s credits, it is apparent that South Africans were instrumental throughout the production.

Although the show is based on a Japanese manga and may not have been written and directed by South Africans, it featured dozens of South African actors, stunt performers, crew and post-production services.

Several South African actors have recurring roles in the show.

One Piece was created by Eiichiro Oda, and fans credit the live-action remake’s success to the fact that he was deeply involved with the production.

Netflix executives said the live-action adaptation was a close collaboration between teams in the United States (US) and Japan, with Oda presiding over the cast and characters.

The Japanese team ensured the production stuck to character narratives and nuances, while the US team worked on the storytelling. It was Oda’s decision to do the show in English.

“This was the first time where we had IP that really invited and required multiple perspectives and different creative teams,” said Peter Friedlander, Netflix vice president of scripted series in the US and Canada.

“We really partnered together across the time zones and across languages. We knew how important that was for the success of it.”

Netflix hopes to execute a similar joint production with the second season.

The company also sees this cross-cultural playbook ‒ with US teams helping to develop popular stories from other countries ‒ working for projects beyond anime.

“It has expanded the possibility of live action not only in Japan but also in the world,” said Kaata Sakamoto, Netflix’s vice president for content in Japan.

Although Netflix did not confirm plans beyond the next season, the company sees potential for longevity in the manga’s many characters and storylines.

Netflix said details for Season 2, including episode count, will be announced later.

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

Damian Willemse, now in the flyhalf position, showcased his agility with a beautiful sidestep that left Romanian defenders bewildered. Kwagga Smith’s relentless work in winning turnovers provided the platform for Willemse’s brilliant display.

Makazole Mapimpi was another shining star, scoring a remarkable hat-trick. His first try came after a slick inside pass from Willie le Roux, positioning him perfectly on the left flank. The try-scoring continued, with Deon Fourie joining the party, scoring his first try in a Bok jersey at the back of a driven maul.

The Springboks’ scrum dominance became evident when they were awarded a penalty try after a Romanian scrum collapsed under pressure. Grant Williams showcased his speed and agility, scoring two tries, one of them after a dazzling run that left the Romanian defence scrambling.

As the final whistle blew, the Springboks celebrated a resounding victory that not only showcased their exceptional talent but also set the stage for a pool-deciding clash with Ireland in Paris. Despite Scotland’s presence in the pool, it’s clear that the Boks are determined to make their mark on this Rugby World Cup.

With a remarkable 76-0 victory over Romania, the Springboks have sent a clear message to their competitors: they are a force to be reckoned with on the rugby field.

Scorers:

Springboks 76 (33) – Tries: Cobus Reinach (3), Makazole Mapimpi (3), Damian Willemse, Deon Fourie, Penalty try, Grant Williams (2), Willie le Roux. Conversions: Willemse (5), Faf de Klerk (2).
Romania 0

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

In a display of pure rugby brilliance, the Springbok Women put on a spectacular show at the University of the Western Cape in Cape Town on Saturday, 17 September 2023, securing a resounding 77-12 victory against Kenya.

From the very outset, the Springbok Women displayed their dominance. Veroeshka Grain, making a triumphant return to the national side, announced her presence with a remarkable hat-trick of tries. In a matter of minutes, the Bok Women had taken a commanding 19-0 lead, and the roar of the crowd echoed their appreciation for the electrifying start. However, the path to victory was not without its challenges. A momentary lapse in concentration allowed Kenya a glimpse of hope as they fought back with two well-executed tries. Diana Kemunto’s sensational 60-metre intercept try and Stella Wafula’s exploit of a defensive lapse brought Kenya back into the game, closing the gap.

At halftime, the score stood at 24-12, with Roseline Botes adding South Africa’s fourth try from a magnificent lineout maul.

The Springbok Women seized complete control of the match in the final 25 minutes, running riot as they crossed the Kenyan try-line at will. Unathi Mali marked her Test debut with a try, while Libbie Janse van Rensburg added another to her name. Nompumelelo Mathe and the triumphant Veroeshka Grain both contributed two late tries each to cap off a remarkable performance.

In total, the Springbok Women scored 53 unanswered points in the second half, showcasing their prowess and determination to secure a decisive victory.

The final score of 77-12 in favour of the Springbok Women was a testament to their unwavering spirit, skill, and teamwork. With 13 tries and an impressive display of conversions, this victory will undoubtedly be celebrated by rugby enthusiasts across South Africa and beyond.

Scorers:

Springbok Women 77 (24) –
Tries: Veroeshka Grain (3), Sinazo Mcatshulwa, Roseline Botes (2), Yonela Ngxingolo, Byrhandré Dolf, Danelle Lochner, Unathi Mali, Libbie Janse van Rensburg, Nompumelelo Mathe (2).
Conversions: Janse van Rensburg (5), Mary Zulu.
Kenya Lionesses 12 (12) –
Tries: Diana Kemunto, Stella Wafula.
Conversions: Grace Okulu.

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

The Paris World Cup (also dubbed the World Champs warm-up) saw the best of the best in artistic gymnastics compete over the past weekend, including Olympic medallists and world champions.

“It was such an incredible honour to be competing among such greatness,” shared Rooskrantz of her finals performance.

However, this is only fitting for the likes of Anders and Rooskrantz, who represented their team of four and their individual excellence at the finals.

Anders was named WAG Junior Gymnast of the Year for 2022 by Gymnastics South Africa, and Rooskrantz is an Olympian herself, who represented South Africa at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Finishing off the Challenge Cup at the finals, Rooskrantz came fourth for the bars final while Anders came seventh, with both athletes celebrating improvements.

Coach Ilse Pelser shares:

“This past weekend saw another excellent performance by our SA WAG team, says Ilse Pelser, National Coach of the SA WAG team. “Caleigh Anders placed seventh in the vault finals competition and Caitlin Rooskrantz secured a fourth place in the Bar finals, just missing out on a bronze.

“Both improved on their qualifying round scores, resulting in the excellent placements in the finals. The team gained valuable experience and is in good form for the upcoming World Championships in Belgium in October.”

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

Makalima and Macfarlane are both single mothers living with disabilities. In recent years, the two have discovered their greatest source of joy and personal strength through the sport of surfing.

Despite facing immense physical and emotional challenges, Macfarlane (who is visually impaired) and Makalima (who has cerebral palsy) have conquered the waves and received a coveted invitation to participate in the World Adaptive Surfing Championship this November. Their achievements embody the spirit of resilience and determination that have made them an inspiration to so many.

Makalima and Macfarlane’s story is testament to the power of the human spirit and the extraordinary feats that can be achieved when passion and determination collide. The two often travel and compete together and complement one another with their abilities and disabilities. Macfarlane will push Makalima around in her wheelchair, the former serving as the legs of the operation while the latter is the eyes.

These two inspiring women are set to ride the waves of success and show the world that the South African spirit knows no bounds.

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com