Letters of credence are official diplomatic documents presented to the President by heads of mission-designate who have been nominated by their respective governments to serve as ambassadors to South Africa.

President Ramaphosa received heads of mission-designate from the following countries:

• Republic of Portugal
• Republic of Poland
• Jamaica
• Republic of Colombia
• Republic of France
• People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria
• Socialist Republic of Vietnam
• Republic of Angola
• Kingdom of Lesotho
• Federative Republic of Brazil
• Kingdom of the Netherlands
• Republic of India
• Georgia
• Republic of Indonesia
• Kingdom of Denmark
• Ireland
• Republic of Tunisia
• Republic of Equatorial Guinea
• Czech Republic
• Republic of Lithuania
• Republic of Zambia
• Kingdom of Jordan
• Republic of Estonia.

“His pioneering, globally acclaimed research into mother-to-child transmission of HIV has rendered an immeasurable legacy to humanity in terms of which persons living with HIV are able to live long and healthy lives subject to early detection and access to treatment.

“Our nation’s loss will be felt globally but we can take pride at and comfort from the emergence of a giant of science and an icon of compassion and resilience from our country.”

Competing against 7 000 athletes from over 180 countries at the Special Olympics World Games, the national team returned with 22 gold, 20 silver and seven bronze medals.

Special Olympics is a global movement of people creating a new world of inclusion and community, where every person is welcome, regardless of ability or disability. 

“Our success in the Special Olympics shows what happens when government and civil society – represented here by Special Olympics South Africa – work together to ensure that we leave no one behind.

“South Africa is honoured to be one of the first countries to support the Special Olympics Global Leadership Coalition for Inclusion, which reflects our commitment to the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities in all areas of our society,” the President said.

Having hosted a number of national teams at the Union Buildings as part of government’s celebration of outstanding achievements by athletes in various sporting codes, the President expressed pride in Team South Africa’s performance.

“We are proud that Team South Africa flew the flag for social inclusion and the advancement of human rights, which are a hallmark of the nation we have built during nearly 30 years of freedom.

“Team South Africa are heroes we can look up to and be inspired by in athletic arenas and in every walk of life in our country. May our commitment to inclusion as a nation shine as brightly as the achievements of our Special Olympics Team,” President Ramaphosa said.

He said the team’s dedication, perseverance and unwavering commitment to their sport had not only brought glory to the nation but it had also shattered the barriers that once confined them.

The team is led by Chairperson of Special Olympics South Africa, Dr Mathews Phosa, who was recently honoured at the 19th Special Olympics Africa Leadership Conference in Addis Ababa.

“With such a hard-working and distinguished captain at the helm of Special Olympics South Africa, we can only expect even greater things from Team South Africa,” the President said.

Dr Phosa spoke about the importance of the inclusion of people with an intellectual disability.

“Our athletes want to be heard and they demand inclusion, respect and equal opportunities. They declare that they are here to show the world their talents and abilities. They deserve nothing else but our unwavering support,” he said.

 – Source: SAnews.gov.za

Held under the theme, Sakhile ‒ Growing Gauteng Together through Smart Mobility, the SMA Conference highlighted the message that integrated smarter mobility is key to growing the economy and creating good jobs, increasing equality, protecting the environment and improving public health.

The event brought together industry experts and policymakers from across the world and cities from across Africa and provided a platform for innovators to showcase their solutions and ideas to organisations searching for mobility solutions.

It also discussed and advanced the latest trends and innovations in mobility as well as the role that transport plays in achieving the 2030 goals, and Gauteng province's dedication to advancing the ease of movement of people and goods.

A wide range of themes to integrate mobility, including Micro Mobility, Public Transport, New Energy Vehicles and Battery Technology, Mobility as a Service, and Smarter Fleets were also discussed at the conference.

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

The ministers responsible for finance and planning of the AU member states also attended the meeting.

Among key issues, the meeting deliberated on the evaluation of the First Ten-Year Implementation Plan (FTYIP) of Agenda 2063 and the development of the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan.

The retreat comprised five panel discussions, which discussed five thematic areas, chaired by the representatives of the five regions of the AU.

The thematic areas were as follows:

• Reflections on the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan
• Financing of Agenda 2063 and its Flagship Projects
• Leveraging Implementation Arrangements of National Development Plans in the Implementation of Agenda 2063 Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan: Domestication, Ownership, Popularisation and Communication
• Agenda 2063 Flagship Projects
• Coordination, Alignment and Capacity-Building at all Levels.

Minister Pandor as the representative of the Southern African Development Community moderated the panel two discussion, dealing with the Financing of Agenda 2063 and its Flagship Projects.

The outcomes of the retreat will feed into the wider AU process currently underway of presenting a draft Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan of Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want (2024 ‒ 2034), which will be tabled for consideration and endorsement by the African heads of state and government at the AU Summit in February 2024.

The university said: “Pahad’s contributions and approach to diplomacy bring strong moral convictions, careful judgement and, above all, a quiet, influential determination in the search for solutions to South Africa’s challenges”.

Years after relinquishing his role in government, Pahad remained active in civic affairs.

In 2018, he chaired the Foreign Policy Review Panel appointed by Minister Lindiwe Sisulu.

“As a result of the report, DIRCO initiated a number of changes aimed at enhancing the implementation of South Africa's foreign policy.”

Post-retirement, Pahad also maintained close ties with those pursuing the Palestinian and Saharawi causes.

“These were causes he would remain dear to, for as long as he lived.”

At the Ubuntu Awards organised by DIRCO early this year, Pahad was awarded the OR Tambo Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contribution to a South Africa that is free and democratic and a world that is fair and just.

“On behalf of all South African diplomats at home and abroad, and all freedom-loving people of the world, we pass our deepest condolences to the Pahad family.

“May the indomitable spirit of Pahad continues to guide our country as we continue the search for a better South Africa and a better world.”

SARA aims to promote agriculture products, livestock farming, fishing, forestry and the agro-food industry.

Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Deputy Minister, Mcebisi Skwatsha, will attend the sixth edition of SARA, taking place from 29 September to 8 October 2023.

The department said the event was a pragmatic implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area through inter-regional and inter-country value chains development.

“Various stakeholders across the South African agriculture fraternity will spearhead South Africa’s exhibition during the Abidjan Fair. This will promote technical and technological expertise and richness of our local products.

“Furthermore, it will expose South Africa’s small producers to the international market system,” the department said in a statement.

The event is held under the theme, African Agriculture Facing the Challenges of Internal and External Shocks: Structural Innovations to Improve the Agricultural Sectors and Guarantee the Food Sovereignty of our Countries.

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

The launch came after two years of work by Prince William and The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to develop a project, which will support the global effort to protect and restore the environment. As well as identifying evidence-based solutions to the most significant environmental problems the planet faces, The Earthshot Prize aims to turn the current pessimism surrounding environmental issues into optimism that we can rise to the biggest challenges of our time.

The five categories are:

• Protect and Restore Nature
• Clean our Air
• Revive our Oceans
• Build a Waste-free World
• Fix our Climate.

Each Earthshot is underpinned by scientifically agreed targets, including the UN SDGs and other internationally recognised measures to help repair our planet. Together, they form a unique set of challenges rooted in science, which aim to generate new ways of thinking, as well as new technologies, systems, policies and solutions.

ABALOBI is the only South African initiative in the running for the prize and is listed within the “Revive Our Oceans” Category. The team, founded by Serge Raemaekers and Nico Waldeck, dreamed of a way to connect small fishing communities to the ever-growing fisheries space by providing accessible technology for them to take part in the market space. ABALOBI means “fisher” in the isiXhosa language.

“Coastal communities are instrumental in the fight to preserve the health of our oceans. Our technology, developed in partnership with fishing communities, is both easy to use and can be adopted at scale, meaning responsible small-scale fishers across the globe can be appreciated as stewards of the ocean. Our gratitude to The Earthshot Prize for recognising the efforts of coastal communities in this endeavour.” – Serge Raemaekers, Co-Founder and Managing Director of ABALOBI

The app has seen over 1 600 fishers join to log their catches and where before 60% of catches were fish “of concern”, now, 90% of logged catches are from ecologically resilient fish stocks.

Not only does the app provide accessible technology for fishers, but it also provides a fair and useful marketplace where fishers can connect with buyers and various stakeholders looking to acquire fish.

The team also produced a documentary highlighting the lives of five South African fisherwomen.

He said, “We’re honoured that Condé Nast Traveller’s discerning readership voted our beautiful Mother City as the fourth-best large city in the world. This accolade is a recognition of our city’s unique beauty, vibrant culture and warm hospitality.”

Indeed, Cape Town has it all – from the iconic Table Mountain to the stunning coastline, rich history and diverse communities. Visitors are not only captivated by its natural beauty but also by the warmth of its people. It is this combination that makes Cape Town a truly exceptional destination.

As Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, rightly put it, “Your hospitality is the beating heart of our beautiful city.”

Cape Town’s recognition on the global stage is well-deserved. The city has worked tirelessly to remain an inclusive must-visit destination. It’s not just about showcasing the beauty of the city but also ensuring that everyone, from locals to tourists, feels welcome and valued.

The competition was fierce, with cities like Singapore, Tokyo, Seoul, and Sydney also making it to the top five but this only highlights the high standards of the cities that Cape Town was ranked against.

Condé Nast Traveller’s Reader’s Choice Awards are the travel industry’s longest-running and most prestigious accolades. Each year, they gather the opinions of hundreds of thousands of readers to determine the winners, making this recognition truly significant.

“As we celebrate this achievement, we mustn’t forget the communities that make Cape Town so special and the travellers who took the time to cast their votes. Together, they have made Cape Town’s tourism experience an award-winning one.”

Looking ahead, Cape Town eagerly anticipates welcoming visitors from around the world to experience its magic. With the announcement of this award, Cape Town’s allure has undoubtedly grown stronger, and we can’t wait to share its beauty and hospitality with even more people.

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

The students – from Capsicum Culinary Studio’s Rosebank and Pretoria campuses – have already been exposed to the South African culinary scene and will now gain international experience. This not only broadens their culinary skills but also exposes them to different cultures, cuisines and industry practices, says their training coordinator, Sifiso Chiloane.

Six of the students have been assigned to the JW Marriott Hotel, four to the Lux Belle Mare Hotel and two will work at the Constance Prince Maurice Hotel.

Chiloane says the three hotels in Mauritius “understand the value of providing international exposure to aspiring culinary professionals and were eager to welcome our students into their establishments”.

The third-year students were selected based on their performance, dedication and potential. Chiloane says “in addition to academic performance, we also considered factors such as attendance, punctuality, teamwork and a strong work ethic. These qualities are essential for success in a professional culinary environment.”

This is the culinary school’s first placement of students in Mauritius under its Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programme. Previously, students have been connected with internship opportunities and job placements in other parts of the world, including the United States and Dubai.

Capsicum is South Africa’s largest culinary school with six campuses across the country. One of the most exciting aspects for Capsicum students is the opportunity offered to participate in its WIL programme – combining classroom learning with supervised work placements.

This not only bridges the gap between theory and practice but gives students a chance to enhance future career prospects by developing a network and industry contacts.

– Source: www.sapeople.com

The show will also feature a 12-piece orchestra, surprise guests and a 360-degree stage setup.

The news has left Black Coffee fans feeling elated and also hopeful that dreams can indeed become a reality.

 – Source: www.ewn.co.za

The dazzling moment took place at the 78th UN General Assembly where Fashion 4 Development hosted the First Ladies Luncheon and Magugu’s name was on everyone’s lips.

Magugu won the Franca Sozzani Award where his craft, cultural celebration and charity initiatives (specifically his team-up with Dior for Charlize Theron’s African Outreach Project) were spotlit for their leading impact in the industry.

“Thebe’s dedication to capturing forgotten histories and cultures through fashion truly resonated with our community’s values. We are inspired by his commitment to inform and educate by his designs,” shared Fashion for Development.

Meanwhile, in other Magugu news, his latest collection is out and proud with SS24 and centres around the story of Sarah Baartman ‒ another ode from the designer to South African stories.

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

Explaining the rationale for staging this prestigious event in Cape Town, Domingo said: “In making the decision where to host the 30th anniversary competition, we took into account that South Africa has an international reputation for the quality of its singers such as previous Operalia winners Pretty Yende and Levy Sekgapane; the reputation and quality of the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO); the body of work of Cape Town Opera (CTO), and the versatility of the venue within the Artscape Theatre Centre, plus, needless to say, the inherent beauty of the city of course.

“When we discussed the details with the CPO’s CEO Louis Heyneman, we got his buy-in immediately since he sensed how important a distinguished competition such as Operalia, the foremost such competition in the world, would be to reinforce the city as an international cultural force,” says Domingo.

Geordin Hill-Lewis, Mayor of Cape Town, was also quick to come on board, saying that Cape Town is the perfect destination thanks to its accent on culture and its gorgeous location. “We look forward to welcoming the organisers, candidates and international visitors who have already made arrangements to come to Cape Town and thank Rolex and Operalia for their understanding of the fact that we can stage this foremost opera event with panache and efficiency.”

Southern Sun is assisting with reduced accommodation costs for the contingent of contestants, jurors, coaches and two conductors ‒ Placido Domingo and Kamal Khan ‒ and Lady Linda Davies of the KT Wong Foundation will make it possible for 80 students to attend aspects of the competition.

The successful contestants come from 15 countries, including South Africa, the United States (US), United Kingdom, Germany, France, Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Israel, South Korea, Malta, Russia and the Ukraine. The jurors are mainly leading casting directors of opera houses in Europe and the US, as well as CTO’s artistic director Magdalene Minnaar and the coaches are based in America.

The competition was founded in 1993 and has helped establish the careers of many singers like Yende, Sekgapane and Metropolitan Opera star Sonya Yoncheva.

Each year, Operalia is hosted in a different city and this year Cape Town joins the world’s cultural capitals such as London, Paris, Madrid, Hamburg, Tokyo and Milan as a host city.

– Source: www.bizcommunity.com

“In addition to providing filmmakers with the expertise to expand their film career, the lab has created a sense of community between the producers inviting them into a peer-to-peer support system where they are free to share opportunities and learnings as they engage in the film industry,” says Magdalene Reddy, director of DFMI.

The lab will focus on modules such as Financial Management, Business Management, Intellectual Property and Entertainment Law, Distribution and Co-production led by film and creative industry professionals from Burkina Faso, Canada, France, Kenya, South Africa and the United States.

The selected South African filmmakers are:

• Chelsea Art
• Duwayne Murphy
• François Maree
• Khangelani Mtyhalela
• Khanyisile Zondi
• Lauren Scholtz
• Madelize de Lange
• Ndumiso Gumede.

The programme will commence in October.

‒ Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

Manaslu, known as the “mountain of the spirit,” stands as the eighth-highest peak globally, nestled within Nepal’s majestic Himalayas. The mountain’s name is rooted in the Sanskrit term “manasa”, signifying “intellect” or “soul”.

The driving force behind Yeung’s ascent is a compelling mission – to spotlight and combat gender-based violence (GBV). Her daring expedition aims to channel funds towards an educational sanctuary that will empower and uplift young women who have faced the brunt of GBV.

Yeung says: “We face a mountain to climb, one that symbolises the path to women’s empowerment through education. This journey is the stepping stone to independence and self-reliance.”

Partnering with The Sherpa Legends, including legendary Mingma Chhiri Sherpa, who has conquered Everest six times and Manaslu three times, Yeung sought to leverage her climb’s impact and inspire change.

Last year, Impilo Collection Foundation ran a powerful campaign called #EmpowerHer – which included a display of 6 200 bras at Johannesburg’s Constitution Hill and subsequent distribution to GBV shelters during International Women’s Month 2022. It left a lasting impact.

The collection of 8 848 bras – representing the height of Mount Everest – is a novel pursuit of social warriors who stand resolute against GBV, says the foundation.

This is Yeung’s fourth fundraising climb. Her vision transcends personal achievements, aiming to establish an annual drive for essentials like bras and sanitary pads.

 – Source: www.sapeople.com

Kavanagh brought home the new record time and the men’s team brought home a bronze for the half marathon, securing the first medal in 24 years at the championship. A few additional records and personal bests were set, as shared by Athletics South Africa.

“There were also SA records in both the mile (1.6km) races – the newest distance to be officially recognised by World Athletics for record purposes.

"Ryan Mphahlele rocketed over the line in sixth position, stopping the clock at 3:57.35. He finished just 0.92 shy of a medal.

"Carina Viljoen took 15th position in the women’s mile in a new national mark of 4:39.01.” – Athletics South Africa

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

“By God’s grace, I have qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. It’s been a long month of competing in three different countries, with its share of ups and downs. Not everything went exactly as planned, but we are coming home with an Olympic ticket, and that’s all that matters! Thank you to my incredible team, and I’m blessed to be part of such a special group.”

Ilser Pelser, national coach of the Senior Women’s Artistic team, shared her pride and provided insight as to how long of a process earning an Olympic spot requires above and beyond talent:

“Gymnasts had to qualify through various international competitions over a three-year period, making it a challenging journey to secure a spot at the games and making it even more remarkable that Caitlin managed to secure a ticket given the hurdles she overcame. This is Caitlin’s highest total yet at a World Championships, and we are incredibly proud of her.”

Don Jurgens, the President of Gymnastics South Africa, added:

“Words can hardly describe how immensely proud I am as President today. These girls and their coaches have worked very hard to achieve their dreams.

“Now it is up to us to make sure they get all the help they need to get to the next level.

“This is the second time that Caitlin has automatically qualified at a World Championship due to her outstanding performances over the previous three years. South Africa also has an opportunity to qualify one more South African gymnast at the African Championships that will be held next year.”

In more good news, Team South Africa also achieved a historic 19th place finish at the World Championships ‒ another moment of history for artistic gymnasts following their crowning as the champs of the continent.

Under new qualification rules set by the FIG, only one team from Africa could qualify to compete as a team. Team South Africa’s unity, hard work and clean routines propelled them to this remarkable achievement, with all gymnasts competing in their very first World Championships ‒ one for the South African history books.

The South African Women’s Artistic Gymnastics team that competed at the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships consisted of:

Caleigh Anders
Naveen Daries
Shante Koti
Garcelle Napier
Caitlin Rooskrantz.

‒ Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

In a match that saw seven tries scored, Nienaber commended his team’s defensive prowess, a testament to their unyielding determination. “From a defensive point of view, I’m proud,” he added. “The team showed great attitude on defence against a Tongan team that got better as the tournament progressed, and I feel the guys put in a great shift in their physicality on defence.”

Captain Kolisi, earning his 50th cap as the Springbok leader, focussed on the sheer physicality of the encounter. “The only thing I was thinking about was the physicality of the match,” Kolisi stated. “They were tough. We knew they would run hard at us, and they never stopped. I applaud the boys for sticking to the plan. We got the bonus point, and we accumulated as many points as we could.”

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

Come 2022, the pro-skater was hot on competitive wheels again and achieved not one but two records that now shine proudly on paper: most skateboard 360 frontside spins in 30 seconds (seven) and most consecutive skateboard ollies (323).

Outside of Guinness’ pages, he has achieved a wealth of big feats: from becoming South Africa’s first skater to earn all podium placements in the World Series to competing for his place in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The organisers expect to announce numerous HSBC Series Sevens, National Teams Sevens, and 15s, as well as top professional clubs international stars to be playing and coaching in the competition.

“We’ve grown from four to five franchises since inception, with the inclusion of the Blue Bulls in 2022 and we’re looking forward to adding another franchise to the competition in 2023. All we can say for now, is that Cape Town will have more than one reason to attend this year’s event,” adds Trufasu.

This third edition of the R10C is set to take place at the Helderberg Rugby Club in Strand, Cape Town, on 18, 22 and 25 November.

As for those set to battle it out for the division trophies and the coveted Franchise Champion Trophy, the Balkan Honey Badgers, Blue Bulls, Cape Town Wild Dogs, San Clemente Rhinos, Serengeti Elephants and one new franchise will go toe-to-toe.

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com