“As a clear demonstration of the value of trade between African countries, Procter & Gamble currently exports from South Africa to Namibia, Swaziland, Mozambique and Botswana. We understand that the company is set to supply the African continent from South Africa through the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

“The African Continental Free Trade Area will unlock opportunities for the development of export markets, enhance industrial bases and regional value chains.

“We expect the continental free trade area to reduce the cost and improve the ease of doing business in Africa,” he said, adding that government wanted to make the movement of products, processes and people seamless as companies increase their footprint on the continent.

Over the years, Procter & Gamble has been a valuable partner to the South African Government through the South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC), continually announcing new investments.

Procter & Gamble stands behind many brands that are household names in South Africa, such as Vicks, Old Spice, Gillette, Oral B and Pampers, among others, and has a strong manufacturing footprint in the country.

The company has been in Africa for over 50 years. It has manufacturing operations in South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt and Morocco and has distributor operations in over 45 countries.

The President said that it had been greatly encouraging to see the company’s response to South Africa’s ambitious investment drive and the investment commitments made by the company at the five SAICs that South Africa had held since 2018.

“It is a pleasure being here today with all of you to launch this state-of-the-art production line of Pampers Premium Care. The timing of this launch is very opportune.

“South Africa has just hosted the 20th AGOA Forum. It was an opportunity to showcase the capabilities of the African continent to the United States, the world’s largest consumer market. I was pleased to see that leading companies that have an established presence on our continent, like Procter & Gamble, were represented,” he said.

The launch of Tuesday’s production line is the latest in a number of projects that have given effect to Procter & Gamble’s investment pledges.

Through these and other investments, Procter & Gamble is contributing to the reindustrialisation of South Africa’s economy.

“To drive growth that is sustainable and inclusive, we are working to expand and diversify our manufacturing base and improve its competitiveness and dynamism,” he said.

The President noted that disruptions to global supply chains caused by COVID-19 lockdowns had highlighted the imperative for companies all over the world to diversify their sources of supply.

Investment

“Just as we have seen the benefits of nearshoring and localisation for South African manufacturers, we can appreciate its value to broader global supply stability.

“South Africa is an investment destination with significant untapped potential. We have the ability to attract higher levels of investment and we look forward to working with Procter & Gamble on its future pipeline of investments,” he said.

While investment decisions often take several years to reach fruition, the President said that the investment commitments made to date had already resulted in substantial investment in the productive economy and had created jobs.

He highlighted that Procter & Gamble had heeded government’s call and had sought to increase the participation of small South African businesses in its value chains.

“We are encouraged by the company’s commitment to sourcing local materials, reducing waste, promoting skills development and creating more roles for women in the company.

“We welcome the work the company has undertaken alongside government departments in expanding access to menstrual hygiene products and supporting Early Childhood Development centres.

“We see these partnerships as testament to the continued commitment of Procter & Gamble to South Africa and the African continent,” the President said.

The President emphasised that government would continue to support Procter & Gamble to increase its footprint through local sourcing and to contribute to job creation, technological development and sustainability.

He congratulated the Procter & Gamble team, from the shop floor to the senior executives, on the launch of this production line.

The President further congratulated the team for the continuous stream of investments being made to increase the company’s footprint on the continent.

“Through the launch of this production line, Procter & Gamble is making a worthy contribution towards our vision of African producers supplying quality goods to African markets.

“This is the vision of a continent that is emerging as the next frontier of global production, meeting the needs of its own people and the peoples of the world,” he said.

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

The AGOA Forum, established in terms of the AGOA Act passed by the United States (US) Congress in May 2000, serves as a crucial platform for strengthening economic partnerships between the US and eligible African states.

The forum brings together government representatives from the US and AGOA-eligible countries, alongside key regional economic organisations, the private sector, civil society and organised labour.

Since its inception in 2000, AGOA has been pivotal in strengthening economic ties and promoting growth and development across the African continent. AGOA's rigorous eligibility requirements include establishing a market-based economy, upholding the rule of law, political pluralism and the right to due process.

Discussions during the forum primarily focussed on enhancing trade and investment ties between the US and sub-Saharan Africa, with a particular emphasis on fostering resilient, sustainable and inclusive economic growth and development.

AGOA has surpassed initial expectations, creating job opportunities, promoting investment, facilitating the emergence of new business prospects and contributing to economic development in beneficiary countries.

With AGOA scheduled to expire in 2025, the forum, among others, showcased successful beneficiary stories, deliberated on the challenges hindering the diversification of export sectors and improving AGOA utilisation.

An extension of AGOA beyond 2025 is expected to promote inward investment in Africa and provide mutual benefits to the US and African countries. This extension will further support the African Continental Free Trade Area, covering 54 countries and 1.4 billion people.

– Source: www.gov.za

The Deputy President also engaged a representative of the ruling Communist Party of China and the mayors of the Shanghai and Shenzhen provinces.

The Eighth South Africa-China BNC occurred within the context of celebrating 25 years of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries, while historic ties date back to the Bandung Conference of 1955. It also followed shortly after the successful fourth State Visit to South Africa by President Xi and the recent XV BRICS Summit and China-Africa Roundtable from 22 to 24 August 2023 in Johannesburg.

Other high-level engagements that took place this year include the People-to-People Exchange Mechanism in February 2023, the Strategic Dialogue in May 2023 and the Joint Economic and Trade Committee in August 2023.

All these engagements, including the Deputy President’s visit, contribute to the strengthening and deepening of bilateral relations between the two countries.

South Africa and China enjoy strong and vibrant economic relations. China is South Africa’s largest global trading partner and South Africa is China’s largest trading partner in Africa. China is a significant investor in South Africa and supports the country’s proposed local infrastructure development projects such as the Small Harbour Development Project and others, while many South African firms are invested in and thriving in the Chinese market.

Lastly, China has supported South Africa’s initiatives to find a lasting solution to the country’s energy challenges, contributing both expertise and equipment to those efforts.

The Deputy President was accompanied by the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Candith Mashego-Dlamini; Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Magdeline Sotyu; Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Land Reform, Nokuzola Capa; Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Buti Manamela; and the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Nomalungelo Gina.

– Source.www.dirco.gov.za

Minister Pandor was hosting Minister Kuleba in Pretoria for political consultations, after which the two leaders also briefed the media.

“All conflict has devastating effects on the countries involved. The effects are felt both politically, as well as economically and in terms of the development opportunities for often innocent citizens.

“As a continent, we continue to strive to build peace, strive to work toward developing a culture of peaceful resolution of conflict and the promotion of the importance of diplomacy and peace as the route to resolving any dispute.”

This is the reason the Minister said South Africa always encouraged a process of peaceful resolution of conflicts in Africa and globally.

“We believe the only path to peace is through diplomacy, dialogue and commitment to the principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter, including the principle that all member states shall settle their disputes by peaceful means and many people forget this particular provision of the UN Charter.”

Regarding the unfolding tragedy in the Middle East, Minister Pandor urged the international community to be louder in voicing a call for the immediate cessation of hostilities.

During his address to the General Assembly in September this year, President Ramaphosa insisted that the UN Charter principle of respect for the territorial integrity of every country be upheld. He told member states that South Africa valued the importance of engaging all partners in conflict to achieve peaceful, just and enduring resolutions.

“Minister, we’re meeting at a time when the world is experiencing a grave escalation of the conflict between Israel and Palestine. The carnage and senseless destruction of property, as well as the untold pain and suffering on all sides, should be condemned unreservedly,” Minister Pandor said on Monday.

The unfolding events, she said, reminded South Africa of its own suffering at the hands of the apartheid machinery.

“Therefore, we call for an immediate end of hostilities, unconditional provision of medical supplies and humanitarian aid. It has thus become more urgent that the relevant UN resolutions and decisions are fully executed to ensure peaceful co-existence between Israel and Palestine for sustained peace. [It] is our belief, as President Mandela, said that the struggle of South Africa is not complete if the people of Palestine are not free.”

Minister Kuleba said he was happy that he was the first Ukrainian Foreign Minister to visit South Africa since 1998.

“On the other hand, I am unhappy that the pause in high-level bilateral contacts between foreign ministers has taken so long. We should commit today never to allow this to happen again and to have regular political dialogue between our countries.”

Minister Kuleba said the leaders not only discussed bilateral relations between Ukraine and South Africa, but also the larger regional perspective of African politics and development.

“No one in today's world exists in isolation. Neither peace nor war exists in isolation in today's world.

“So, while Ukraine has been suffering from the large-scale invasion by Russia since February 2022, we do observe and follow with utmost concern the crisis in the Middle East and we wish for just and lasting peace to be restored in the Middle East based on the principle of a two-state solution.”

Minister Kuleba said he believed that the deeper the contact between the countries, the higher the level of trust between both nations.

“There are good reasons for that to happen, which will allow us to address the most sensitive issues in the bilateral and Global Agenda successfully and together.”

These issues, according to Minister Kuleba, include the implementation of Ukraine's peace formula to end the war, international organisations, the development of trade and the involvement of Ukrainian expertise in the digitalisation of government services and the production of agricultural food products across Africa.

“All of this is on the table and I'm looking forward to a fruitful discussion, and as we diplomats like to say, 'result-oriented discussion',” he said.

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

According to reports from the ground in Gaza, Israel is reportedly choosing countries that it considers “friendly” to allow their nationals to leave first. Those countries (such as South Africa) that Israel considers “unfriendly” and which have taken a strong stance on the ongoing onslaught are being pushed to the bottom of the list. At the current slow pace at which the Israelis are approving foreign nationals, the turn for South Africans could be after 20 days.

South Africa calls on Israel once again to adhere to its obligations under international law and protect civilians as required under the Geneva Conventions and under international humanitarian law. It is not only foreign nationals who must be allowed to freely exit the Gaza Strip in a timely manner, but it is a war crime for Israel to directly target Palestinian civilians in hospitals, ambulances, schools, apartment buildings and in their private cars.

At least 9 227 Palestinian civilians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza since 7 October. More than 1 400 Israelis (settlers and soldiers) have been killed in Israel.

Over the past few days, a school, a hospital, an ambulance and civilians on roads travelling South have been bombed. The bombing of the ambulance at the gate of al-Shifa hospital on Friday, 3 November 2023, killed 15 people, injuring 16 others. The targeted air strikes on civilians fleeing South killed 14 Palestinian civilians, among them children. These are serious breaches of international humanitarian law and are war crimes. These actions again illustrate the need for an immediate ceasefire as overwhelmingly voted for by members of the United Nations General Assembly.

Ongoing threats by Israel to bomb the al-Shifa and al-Quds hospitals where thousands of displaced civilians are sheltering must be condemned by the international community.

South Africa invested resources together with its IBSA partners (India and Brazil) to build a state-of-the-art cardiothoracic unit at al-Quds hospital over six years ago as Israel at the time was preventing Gazans from leaving to get medical treatment in the West Bank. Threats to bomb the hospital puts this investment at risk, but more importantly, countless human lives.

– Source: www.dirco.gov.za

The tireless efforts of the AU through the AU High-Level Panel on Ethiopia, comprising former President Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria; former President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya; and former Deputy President of South Africa, Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, are commendable.

The Pretoria Peace Agreement was heralded as demonstrable proof that African solutions to African problems were possible.

Recently, the Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Dr Abiy Ahamed Ali, has apprised President Cyril Ramaphosa on progress made to date in the implementation of the Pretoria Agreement. South Africa has thus taken due note of the reported progress registered thus far, as evidenced by the restoration of essential services and provision of humanitarian assistance in the Tigray region.

Additionally, South Africa has noted the progress achieved in the disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration of the Tigray Armed Forces as monitored by the AU Monitoring, Verification and Compliance Mechanism deployed in Tigray.

South Africa encourages the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Tigray People's Liberation Front leadership to spare no effort in the full implementation of the Pretoria Agreement.

South Africa places great premium on its relations with Ethiopia, which are informed by historical ties dating back to South Africa’s liberation struggle. These relations continue to grow from strength to strength.

“As we continue to deepen our friendship, enhancing the common understanding between our governments, we do so for the mutual benefit of our peoples.

“Let peace, stability and development prevail in Ethiopia."

‒ Source: www.dirco.gov.za

“One idea that's come up from the discussions is whether we should consider, if needed, a two-stage programme. But the first stage firmly focussed on reauthorisation as rapidly as possible, maybe with a modest package of refinements that does not require lengthy discussions.

“The second stage with further and perhaps deeper improvements that require more time and further study, and that can be done fairly shortly thereafter. We are particularly keen to get the reauthorisation in the earliest part of 2024, so this will be very helpful.

“These are ideas that we want our friends in the United States (US) to think through and consider. We are also reflecting a little bit on these, weighing up the pros and cons,” the Minister said.

AGOA is a unilateral trade preference scheme that provides qualifying sub-Saharan African countries with duty-free, quota-free access into the US market. AGOA remains the cornerstone of the US’ commercial relations with sub-Saharan Africa.

The Minister said that discussions at the forum also looked at a graduation system once countries reach a particular level of advancement, adding that they could be even considered a "constructive conversation about the matrix of that level of advancement".

Minister Patel also emphasised that there were policy areas that need to be relooked, adding that polishing existing policies would make room for more African products to make it to the international market.

Minister Patel highlighted that the discussions also looked at the idea of small business to small business partnerships between the African continent and the US.

“We looked at the product scope. Is there appetite to increase the number of products covered by AGOA? By way of illustration, we shared with Congressional representatives, an example of 10 products where Africa has capacity and where Africa has fantastic products, some of which you've tasted in the last few days,” he told delegates.

“We recognise we need to balance the level of our ambition on extending the product list against the concerns about the time that may be required to reach consensus in Congress on these factors. While we would obviously prefer as much as possible, we want to avoid such a broad review that we delay reauthorisation,” he said.

Mineral beneficiation

Mineral beneficiation on the African continent was also under the spotlight.

“We said we don't want to be the exporter of rocks. We want to be the exporter of consumer and capital goods … and the producers of electric vehicles. And it raises the question of a moment of a grand bargain between Africa and its friends elsewhere in the world, where there's a partnership around critical minerals, but also with processing of critical minerals on the African continent,” he said.

The Minister believes that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a game changer.

He explained that AGOA on its own gave the continent significant access on a range of products to the world's single biggest national consumer market.

“What the AfCFTA will add to that is that the combined weight of access to African markets and access to the US market will give us the scale to draw investment, and scale is what investors look at. They want to be able to see that the size of the market justifies the investment. 

“We also said that AfCFTA is helping to foster value chains. It is a critical driver to help industrialise and so more and more countries will now begin to have these value chains, so those value chains will then enable better utilisation of AGOA,” he said.

Impact

The US Trade Representative, Katherine Tai, also addressed the closing ceremony and emphasised that AGOA remained the cornerstone of the US economic partnership with Africa.

“Let us not forget the real impact AGOA has had on real lives, real people: the woman entrepreneur seeking to expand her macadamia nut processing business; the small business owner making apparel and handicrafts and the countless students and youth, waiting to make their mark on this ever-changing continent,” she said.

President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the opening of the forum on Friday, 3 November 2023. In his address, the President said an extension of AGOA for a longer period of time could act as an instrument to entice investors to pour more resources into the African continent.

“We would like you to look at the extension or renewal of AGOA for a sufficiently lengthy period for it to act as an incentive for investors to build new factories on the African continent,” said the President.

The purpose of the forum was to discuss ways to expand trade and investment relations between the US and sub-Saharan Africa, and the implementation of AGOA, including encouraging joint ventures between small and large businesses.

‒ Source: SAnews.gov.za

“Commitment to strengthen the US-African trade and investment relationship. Commitment to craft a more resilient, sustainable and inclusive tomorrow across the continent. Commitment to partner with one another to make AGOA stronger and more effective,” she said at the session held on Saturday, 4 November 2023.

The three-day forum explored the intersection of trade and competition policy and what that meant for a fairer economy in Africa and elsewhere. It further discussed how small businesses and women-owned enterprises could be equipped and empowered to succeed and thrive.

Ambassador Tai also highlighted the need to make the AGOA programme more effective and relevant to today’s challenges and to explore additional areas of cooperation to complement the programme.

Impact

Ambassador Tai emphasised that AGOA remained the cornerstone of the US economic partnership with Africa.

“Let us not forget the real impact AGOA has had on real lives, real people: the woman entrepreneur seeking to expand her macadamia nut processing business; the small business owner making apparel and handicrafts and the countless students and youth, waiting to make their mark on this ever-changing continent.

“So, when we say that AGOA is the cornerstone of our economic partnership, we do not mean it in the abstract. It has been a bedrock to improve the livelihoods of so many people across Africa and it has the potential to do so much more. But we can make it even better,” she said.

Ambassador Tai reflected on the discussions held over the last three days, saying most of the issues discussed were precisely on this topic.

She said this made the programme more effective and relevant to today’s challenges, such as growing inequality and the climate crisis.

Furthering cooperation

“As we discussed during the session on What’s Next in our US-Africa Trade Relations, we must also explore additional areas of cooperation and other trade tools to complement our AGOA relationship.

“This includes collaborating on AfCFTA [African Continental Free Trade Area] implementation and better using the multilateral trading system to benefit more people, particularly underserved communities,” she said.

The US Ambassador acknowledged that while there was a lot of work ahead, she felt optimistic and hopeful.

Equitable future

Ambassador Tai said each of the African perspectives was a powerful reminder to her that trade can and must help craft a fairer and more equitable future for Africa.

“Driving inclusive economic growth. Empowering workers. Delivering real opportunities across all segments of societies, including women, youth, the African Diaspora and other underserved groups. You all believe that our work has a critical role to play in building this future and that communal commitment will allow us to accomplish more than we can as individuals.

“It is an understatement to say that this is a partnership. I am honoured to have each of you as colleagues and teammates to use trade as a force for good and to spur a race to the top,” Ambassador Tai said on the last day of the forum.

The Ambassador urged delegates to stay committed and devoted to the cause.

“Let us be devoted to our cause. Let us not be satisfied with the status quo. Let us continue to build from here, to write the next chapter of our story together -- to make AGOA a beacon that shines for years to come,” she said.

Ambassador Tai used her speech to extend appreciation to South Africa’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel, and the South African Government for the warm and welcoming hospitality and immense effort taken to make the forum a success.

She further sent a big thank you to her fellow trade ministers and their delegations for the productive dialogue and engagement.

– Source: SAnews.gov.za

“We pause to congratulate 21 KZN-based entrepreneurs that have been selected to showcase their products and services to more than 32 000 visitors who will attend Africa’s largest business networking and trade event, the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF). The trade fair will take place in Cairo from 9 to 15 November 2023.

“Our entrepreneurs were subjected to a gruelling selection process managed by our entity, TIKZN

“By and large, the selection process was designed to ensure that we market our products and services from all corners of our province, especially the townships and rural areas. This is in line with our Buy KZN Product Campaign.

“We are happy that today our entrepreneurs gathered at Investment House for a well-deserving send-off.

“For a very long time, through TIKZN, we hosted International Expo Week as part of creating a demand for local products produced by our entrepreneurs. 

“As the previous host of the 2021 IATF Trade Show 2021, we believe that this year’s event will put our entrepreneurs on the pedestal and augment the Buy KZN Product Campaign.

“IATF is organised by the African Export-Import Bank, in collaboration with the African Union Commission and the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat.

“It is a platform for businesses to access an integrated African market that has more than 1.3 billion people and a combined gross domestic product of over US$3.5 trillion.

“Critically, we are encouraged by an integrated approach involving the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and Small Enterprise Development Agency.

“Collectively, we have made it possible to deploy resources to cover logistics and other necessary expenses for our entrepreneurs.

“This is in addition to the enduring partnership between TIKZN and Transnet Port Terminal. This partnership has helped many entrepreneurs under the export capacity-building programme. 

“Finally, we are confident that as more entrepreneurs export their products, we will see a significant increase in foreign exchange earnings.”

‒ Source: www.gov.za

The Cape Town fashion designer’s eponymous label has, since 2015, been synonymous with community and creation with intention. As such, the international accolade is a reflection not only of remarkable talent but of community support.

“To be under the aegis of this institute is a true reflection of what it means to be of service and purpose to others …

“To my LM Studio, cabinet of friends and collaborators, your continuous support, guidance and belief has been immeasurable; through the trajectory of establishing the foundation of the LM label, the experience has been unmatched. It’s your continuous presence that has inspired and allowed me to consistently persevere with the intentional work of our label, Lukhanyo Mdingi.” ‒ Lukhanyo Mdingi.

Mdingi was selected out of nine finalists representing countries around the world. However, the designer’s relationship-centric, ethical design process and unique visualisation of local pride beat the world to earn Mdingi a moment that will inspire young creatives all over the country.

The AMIRI Prize is awarded to up-and-coming talent from diverse backgrounds and will grant Mdingi US$100 000 as well as a mentorship set to span a year with Mike Amiri.

The prize announcement praised Mdingi as a label that “exists as a space that moves deeply into the very essence of human ingenuity and the preservation of craftsmanship”, and the South African fashion community couldn’t be prouder to see one of our own soaring at this level.

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

Wheeler was selected from over 7 000 nominations and applications from 130 countries around the world. She first trained as a scientist, obtaining a PhD in Zoology and spending two years on the sub-Antarctic Marion Island. As she started sharing her knowledge and experience with younger generations, she realised teaching was her true calling. Now, her creativity in the classroom, mixing science-themed charades, class debates and science apps helps students excel at science and her broadcasts on marine life reach 400 000 people.

Now in its eighth year, the US$1 million Global Teacher Prize is the largest prize of its kind.

It was set up to recognise one exceptional teacher who has made an outstanding contribution to the profession as well as to shine a spotlight on the important role teachers play in society. By unearthing thousands of stories of heroes that have transformed young people’s lives, the prize hopes to bring to life the exceptional work of millions of teachers all over the world.

– Source: www.sagoodnews.co.za

However, in an effort to keep both marine animals and humans safe, marine biologists at Stellenbosch University, led by Dr Andreotti, have done something groundbreaking, thanks to their innovative “kelp forest” biomimicry work designed to protect lives without harmful repercussions.

According to the university, the SharkSafe BarrierTM tech is the only eco-friendly alternative to shark nets.

For Dr Andreotti, who is a Stellenbosch University lecturer, researcher and diver, creating kelp forest-inspired barriers is the solution thanks to their safety-focussed position as “reef-like havens for local sea life”.

The barriers work by marrying kelp forest elements with magnetic fields, the latter being a force most shark species are sensitive to, due to the electromagnetic receptors on their heads. The kelp forest design, on the other hand, is inspired by natural sea life behaviour; where real kelp forests are something of a hiding place for most sea creatures seeking refuge from predators, according to the researchers.

In simple terms, shark safety is safer now as the sharks are repelled by the magnetic fields instead of trapped, while other marine lives can go about their days as usual and sea-curious humans can explore without harmful impact either.

This concept was developed over 10 years ago and since then, it has been tried and tested throughout South African waters.

Now, it’s making even more waves of change in waters far beyond. The barriers' use in the Bahamas for one (its first commercial use ever) has been praised after a 30-metre-long barrier along an island bay was installed to strengthen marine conservation efforts.

But the opportunities to re-manage shark safety are bigger than any one island and will always have a dose of South African brilliance tied to every mission accomplished.

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

Dubbed the African-Indian interpretation of South Africa, the Sari-style gown is adorned with Zulu beading in a Ndebele print against the backdrop of vibrant green with yellow accents to represent the green and gold that course through our veins.

Designed by Casey Jeanne Walters, the mind behind the piece shared that when she was first asked to create the national costume for Govender, she was wonderfully surprised.

“We deliberately didn’t want an ostentatious, gaudy and over-the-top national costume for South Africa. But rather a high-fashion couture version that allows Bryoni to shine,” shared Casey Jean.

“It’s not flashy, it’s not huge but it’s representative and that is what a national costume should be about. No gimmicks,” the designer added.

In its vibrant dose of subtle silhouette, Govender’s gown speaks to so many factors that resonate with what it means to be South African.

The 72nd Miss Universe pageant will take place on 18 November 2023.

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

On 4 November, the semi-finals took place at the Artscape Theatre where the Operalia jury chose only 12 singers to move through to the final round on 5 November 2023. Operalia began with 34 different artists from 15 countries selected from over 800 entrants.

Among the talents chosen for the Opera World Cup finals were two South Africans, Nombulelo Yende (soprano) and Siphokazi Molteno (mezzo-soprano who made the finals for the Zarzuela competition).

All the finalists were joined by Maestro Placido Domingo for a performance, conducting the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra on Sunday, 5 November 2023. The winners were:

First prize

Julie Roset, soprano, France
Stephano Park, bass, South Korea

Second prize

Eugénie Joneau, mezzo-soprano, France
Luke Sutliff, baritone, United States (US)

Third prize

Elena Villalón, soprano, US
Navasard Hakobyan, baritone, Armenia

Birgit Nilsson prize

Eugénie Joneau, mezzo-soprano, France

The Pepita Embil Prize of Zarzuela

Eugénie Joneau, mezzo-soprano, France

The Don Plácido Domingo Ferrer Prize of Zarzuela

Navasard Hakobyan, baritone, Armenia

Rolex Prize of the Audience

Elena Villalón, soprano, US
Taehan Kim, baritone, South Korea

CulturArte Prize

Nombulelo Yende, soprano, South Africa.

Cape Town’s place as host was another notch on the City’s belt in uniting passion and prestige on African soil as it joins the world’s cultural capitals like London, Paris, Madrid, Hamburg, Tokyo and Milan who have all put opera on the map.

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

Established in 2019, the World Luxury Travel Awards aim to be the pinnacle of achievement for the travel industry, offering international recognition as voted for by guests, travellers and industry players alike. International travellers vote each year, during a four-week period, to select the winners.

Travel organisations have the opportunity to participate in the World Luxury Travel Awards by entering the awards to highlight and draw attention to their unique selling points with regard to travel destinations, facilities or services offered.

Twenty-seven South African companies and services walked away with winning titles. Each of the winning travel companies is listed alongside what award they won and in which region.

• Acrobranch Adventure Parks – Award for best adventure park in the country
• African Bush Camps – Award for best safari company globally
• African Story Tours – Award for best wine tours in the country
• Avontuur Estate – Award for best wedding venue in its region
• Avontuur Estate – Award for best wine destination in its region
• Ceres Rail Company – Award for best train tours in its region
• Discover Africa – Award for best safari company in its region
• Fireblade Aviation – Award for best aviation service provider on the continent
• Fireblade Aviation – Award for best charter airline in its region
• Fireblade Aviation – Award for best private airline in its region
• Fireblade Aviation – Award for best VIP airport lounge in its region
• Hike Table Mountain – Award for best hiking/walking tours on the continent
• Jeep Tours Cape Town – Award for best adventure tour company on the continent
• Juma Art Tours – Award for best art and culture experience in the country
• Ker & Downey® Africa – Award for best inbound tour operator in its region
• Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden – Award for best botanical garden on the continent
• Kraalbaai LHB – Award for best houseboat accommodation in the country
• LIFT – Award for best domestic airline on the continent
• NAC Helicopters Cape Town – Award for best helicopter charter company in its region
• Nooitgedacht Estate – Award for best wedding venue on the continent
• Paradise Adventures – Award for best adventure experience on the continent
• Path and Peak Adventures – Award for best hiking/walking tours in the country
• SA 4X4 Rentals – Award for best S4X4 rental company in its region
• Two Oceans Aquarium – Award for best aquarium globally
• Udrive4x4 – Award for best 4X4 rental company on the continent
• Wine Flies Tours – Award for best wine tours in its region
• Xama Africa – Award for best safari company in the country.

. – Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

Sea Walls: South Africa, presented by the Save Our Seas Foundation, started Monday, 6 November 2023, when a visceral procession of ocean creatures and flora began to appear on the side of 14 buildings around Cape Town to make an indelible mark in the fight to protect our oceans.

Heading to Cape Town for the inaugural Sea Walls project in Africa was Antonio Segura, also known as DULK, a native of Spain famous for his surreal depictions of endangered animals. Segura and Germany’s Yeye Weller, whose powerful cartoon style has attracted clients such as Warner Bros and the New York Times, joined Si Omar (aka Cracked Ink), the British street artist based in New Zealand known for his character-based, monochromatic creations.

DULK, Weller and Cracked Ink will join top South African artists:

• Amy Lee Tak
• Aweh Migo
• Breeze Yoko
• Care One
• DBongz
• Dirty Native Njabulo Hlophe
• Marie-Louise Koen
• Marti Lund
• Motel Seven
• Sonny Behan
• Stefan Smit.

This collective will add more works to PangeaSeed’s network of more than 500 murals in 19 countries by more than 400 artists utilising the motto: A Drop of Paint Can Create an Ocean of Change.

Apart from the actual work in locations such as Gardens, Kalk Bay, Newlands, Muizenberg, Cape Town CBD and Salt River, visitors enjoyed a week-long, free-to-the-public programme that included a youth outreach at local schools, a coastal cleanup and self-guided driving tours to the murals.

Sea Walls: South Africa, in partnership with SJ Artists and Wavescape, culminated in a free community event at Jack Black’s Taproom that featured short film screenings and a panel discussion at the intersection between science, art and activism. The latter two merge to form the word “artivism”, a term championed by Pangeaseed Foundation Founder, Tré Packard.

“We’re very excited to be in Cape Town for the latest edition of Sea Walls. As a bustling urban city surrounded on three sides by the raw might and beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, it is a natural fit for our message of solidarity with communities fighting to save the natural resources around them, while dealing with the diverse challenges unique to South African culture,” he said.

Project Manager for Sea Walls: South Africa Shani Judes said:

“Our collaboration with Sea Walls really puts Cape Town on a global map as a special leg on a unique tour of art and activism that brings to life how critically important the oceans are to our survival.

“It’s also a way to leave behind a legacy for Cape Town residents and our artistic community to engage with each other, and feel part of the global Sea Walls family, who make such a visual impact in the quest to protect our oceans,” she said.

The murals are designed to be purpose-driven and educational to inspire ocean stewardship through creativity and visual storytelling. Each artwork draws on locally relevant features or issues, as well as historical legacy, or other challenges facing communities.

CEO of the Save Our Seas Foundation, James Lea, said: “Striking art can connect with people in a way that science often struggles with, which is why we’re delighted to collaborate again with Sea Walls and Wavescape to present a stunning array of murals across Cape Town that highlight the majesty of our oceans. Through fostering people’s connection with nature, we strive to promote ocean stewards who can help advocate for the health of our oceans.”

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

The gesture earned them a wealth of respect from fans, with one concert goer titling the moment they sang their hit You Raise Me Up in the jerseys: “when winners recognise winners”.

– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com

Along with footage from the Graceland recording sessions, the film introduces us to many luminaries who worked with Shabalala, including Dolly Parton.

The film also documents the complex history of isicathamiya music – the musical idiom whose boundaries he helped to expand – regarding the political and musical forces that helped to form it.

“We are humbled to be selected by the NFVF selection committee to represent SA at the 96th Academy Award in the International Feature Film section,” says the film's lead producer, Carolyn Carew.

“As a team, we worked tirelessly with the band, Baba Joseph’s family and the Dr Joseph Shabalala Foundation to tell his story. To be in his presence was to be left in awe of his deep commitment to his craft, informed by his love of music, the land, his spirituality and his dedication to bringing his unique as well as the powerful voices of Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s music to the world.

“Shabalala’s achievements place him in the pantheon of African musical superstars,” comments director Mbele. “This film takes viewers on his spiritual and emotional journey.

“Thanks to all the stakeholders for their hard work and dedication to the fulfilment of this dream. I salute them,” says Thoko Shabalala, Joseph’s wife, who features in the film.

‒ Source: www.bizcommunity.com

The South African team consisted of blade shearers Zwelamakhosi Mbuweni and Bonile Rabela; machine shearers Dumisani Xhasa and Hans van Schalkwyk; and wool handlers Almarie Muller van Schalkwyk and Marie Mullee.

The South African team arrived in Scotland a week prior to the championships to practise shearing the Scottish Black Face, Mules and Cheviots, three meat type breeds, known for putting up a fight when being sheared.

The competition itself featured 53 hand shearers, 56 machine shearers and 56 wool handlers from 29 different countries, making it a truly international event.

In the Hand Shearing Category, both Mbuweni and Rabela put on an exciting final in both the individual and team events.

In the Team Category, each team member sheared five sheep, while in the Individual Category, each shearer had to shear six sheep.

Rabela secured first place, while Mbuweni came in second, giving South Africa gold and silver in the category.

In the Blades Team Category, South Africa finished tops, followed by New Zealand, Wales, Australia, England and Ireland.

‒ Source: www. www.sapeople.com

The game was building up to a crescendo as the emotions rose and Nic Spooner spent a few minutes in the bin. Both teams had chances but were unable to convert and at the half time break, the game was on a knife’s edge, 1-1.

South Africa thought they would take the lead when Matt Guise-Brown’s shot was saved superbly on the line. It was then Gowan Jones turn to shine as he produced one of the best saves of the tournament to keep the score level. Egypt did find the back of the net, but a South African referral saw the goal denied as a result of a foot.

The pressure in the final 15 minutes was intense and both teams thought there was a possible winner in their destiny. South Africa were the ones to find the goal. Mustapha Cassiem was given a small pocket of space and fired in his shot; the ball was saved but as it fell across to Ryan Julius, and the goal was scored. Despite a lengthy referral, the goal stood to the jubilation of the South Africans and the dismay of the Egyptians.

Egypt continued to fight back and almost levelled with a cross bar strike that somehow stayed out. But Egypt would find the back of the net once more with 40 seconds left but once again a foot in the circle saw the goal disallowed on referral and the South Africans held on to secure a place in Paris.

Julius, who scored the winning goal, shared his thoughts after the final:

“I can hardly remember the moment, but it’s definitely the greatest in a qualifier for me. I was in the right place at the right time and I couldn’t be happier. It was a sensational moment in front of a sensational crowd!”

African Hockey Road to Paris 2024 Qualifier Final Standings

• South Africa
• Egypt
• Ghana
• Uganda
• Nigeria
• Kenya
• Zambia
• Zimbabwe.

‒ Source: www.sasportspress.co.za

A brilliant set up by Kristen Paton put Ntsopa Mokoena through but Martha Uko, who has been superb in this tournament, pulled off a great save.

The South Africans made it 3-0 early in the second quarter when Jean-Leigh du Toit netted almost a trademark drag flick from a penalty corner as the Nigerian team appeared helpless to deny the South Africans.

Things got even better for the South Africans as they stormed into the half-time break with another two goals and a place in Paris all but confirmed.

That confirmation received further backing in the third quarter with a hat-trick completing deflection from Tarryn Lombard before Paris-Gail Isaacs scored her first international goal for the country getting on the rebound of her own shot to make it 8-0.

Kristen Paton added the final cherry on top of a brilliant cake as the South Africans wrapped up the victory 9-0, completing the tournament without conceding a goal.

Player of the Match in the final, Tarryn Lombard was delighted with her role in the victory:

“Scoring a goal in the final is stuff of dreams, let alone a hat-trick. I’m absolutely stoked with the performance. We are incredibly pleased to qualify for the Olympic Games, the hard work starts here and I can’t wait to get started.”

African Hockey Road to Paris 2024 Qualifier Final Standings

• South Africa
• Nigeria
• Kenya
• Ghana
• Namibia
• Zambia
• Zimbabwe.

‒ Source: www. supersport.com