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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA PLEASED WITH MILESTONES AT COP28 |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed satisfaction with the level of engagements at the Conference of Parties (COP28). |
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This as the President concluded his Official Visit to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Saturday, 2 December 2023.
The COP28 outcomes also included the setting up of a loss and damage fund.
"South Africa applauds the landmark decision of COP28 to operationalise the new fund on loss and damage and welcomes the pledges that have already been made. We would like to see the fund growing along with the implementation of all other commitments that have been made thus far”, said President Cyril Ramaphosa.
President Ramaphosa also presented South Africa’s Implementation Plan of the Just Energy Transition (JET) Investment Plan to the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, António Guterres.
The plan has also been shared with some of the JET partners who have committed up to US$8.5 billion towards South Africa’s efforts in decarbonising the economy and mitigating the effects of climate change.
The President also called for more countries to participate in efforts to end the effects of climate change in developing-economy countries.
"We are calling for more countries to participate, as our JET Plan requires much more funding, so that we can enable a more effective and positively impactful transition, particularly with respect to communities that are going to be affected as we transit from fossil fuel sources of energy to renewables.
“As the summit continues in the next two weeks, we want to see sharper focus coming from developed economies with respect to living up to their Paris commitments. We still expect the US$100 billion that was promised to be made available to support countries that are least responsible for climate damage manage the effects of climate change”, said President Ramaphosa.
The President asserted the role of multilateralism and solidarity as central to global climate action and cautioned against unilateral, coercive and trade-distorting approaches, such as carbon-adjustment measures that are going to be severely detrimental to developing economies.
The conference commenced on 30 November and will end on 12 December 2023, bringing together world leaders to discuss progress and ambitions across all pillars of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change as adopted in the Paris Agreement in 2015.
The conference seeks to provide momentum and guidance for the remainder of the COP and is presided over by COP28 President-Designate Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber of the United Arab Emirates.
In a statement on Sunday, 3 December 2023, The Presidency said the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, would lead the country’s participation for the remainder of the conference until 12 December 2023.
South Africa’s participation in the conference is in the context of its national determination as set out in the JET Investment Plan, to significantly reduce emission in line with the Paris Agreement adopted in 2015.
COP28 presents an opportunity to fast-track the energy transition by building the energy system of the future, while rapidly decarbonising the current energy system to keep the 1.5°C target within reach.
‒ Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| DEVELOPING COUNTRIES MUST STAND AS ONE |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged member countries of the G77+China to “stand together in solidarity, to support each other and to speak with one voice at COP28”. |
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The President was speaking at the inaugural G77+China Summit on Climate Change, held on the sidelines of the Conference of Parties (COP28) in Dubai.
“Every region and country represented in this group is already experiencing the impact of climate change and its associated loss and damage. This means that we need to stand together in solidarity, to support each other and to speak with one voice at COP28. We need to contribute our best efforts and to act with urgency.
“Transformative climate action is taking place alongside our efforts to eradicate poverty and inequality. We should therefore coordinate our positions on the transformation of the global financial architecture and reform of the multilateral development banks so that they can support sustainable development,” President Ramaphosa said.
He added that countries who were endowed with mineral resources that are critical for energy transitions needed to work together to “ensure that the new economy is fairer, more equitable and offers equal opportunity for all”.
“We should forge a united platform against unilateral coercive and trade-distorting measures under the guise of climate action. These include carbon border taxes that have the effect of reversing climate finance flows to the global North.
“We need to reframe the climate action narrative to better address the realities of developing-economy countries, to give appropriate recognition to their rights and to acknowledge their contributions to the global fight against this existential threat,” he said.
The President reiterated South Africa’s position that developed countries must support the energy transitions of developing countries.
“Since developing-economy countries are the least responsible for climate change but the most affected, it is critical that the enabling means of implementation support is provided by countries with developed economies.
“The G77 and China, representing the overwhelming majority of the world’s population who live in developing economies, have the opportunity to infuse this vision into the mandate and scope of the new work programme on Just Transition Pathways,” he said.
‒ Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| MULTILATERALISM KEY TO DEALING WITH CLIMATE CHANGE |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged global leaders to continue working together in efforts to tackle climate change as unilateralism can have detrimental result on developing economies. |
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“Multilateralism must remain central to global climate action. Unilateral, coercive and trade-distorting measures, such as carbon adjustment measures are detrimental to developing economies,” the President said on Friday, 1 December 2023.
President Ramaphosa was addressing the high-level segment for the heads of state and government during the United Nations climate-focussed Conference of Parties (COP28), which is currently underway in Dubai.
Leading South Africa’s participation in the conference, he emphasised the importance of access to finance, skills transfer and technology as tools to help developing-economy countries build climate resilience.
“African countries are among the most vulnerable to the effects of a rapidly changing climate and have to adapt and build resilience within the context of historically low levels of development and a severely limited capacity.
“Innovative financing instruments, such as special drawing rights, are needed to ensure that funding does not increase the debt burden of countries that are already struggling to service their debt.
He said nations needed to support the right of each country to determine its own developmental trajectory and provide the necessary space to bring it to fruition.
“As South Africa, we applaud the landmark decision of COP28 to operationalise the new fund on loss and damage and welcome the pledges that have already been made.
“If this fund is to effectively support those countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change, we need to mobilise funding on a far greater scale.
“We must launch the work programme on national and international just transitions that involve all in society and encompass all areas of the economy,” President Ramaphosa said.
He said decisions that would be made at COP28 needed to be guided by science, equity and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities.
“Climate action is key to South Africa’s sustainable development agenda. The South African Government has just approved the Implementation Plan for the country’s Just Energy Transition Investment Plan.
“This plan focusses on areas critical to a just transition, including investment in electricity infrastructure, new energy vehicles, green hydrogen, skills development, municipal electricity distribution and interventions directed at communities most affected by the energy transition.
“South Africa has a successful renewable energy power producers programme that plays a key role in supporting our decarbonisation efforts. There are also promising developments underway in our country to harness the potential of green hydrogen and to beneficiate critical minerals and rare earths in support of development and driving the green transition,” the President said.
‒ Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA MOURNS PASSING OF PROF. HARRY SEFTEL |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed sadness at the passing of veteran clinician, researcher and academic, Prof. Harry Seftel, who passed away less than a month before his 95th birthday. |
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In a statement, the President sent his deep condolences to Prof. Seftel family and the late Prof. Seftel’s friends and associates around the country and internationally.
Prof. Seftel spent more than 50 years in the Department of Medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand.
“Prof. Seftel’s passing at the end of an extended life with which he was blessed is another instance of loss among a generation that defined the South Africa of the 20th century.
“Prof. Seftel’s life journey includes his university-days friendship with Nelson Mandela. Harry Seftel’s journey was one of continuous curiosity and discovery, with the aim of assisting individuals and entire communities to make healthy lifestyle choices and enjoy a healthy life.
“He was a relentless achiever, who passionately educated generations of medical practitioners and researchers. He will be remembered for sharing his knowledge in the most accessible and entertaining ways, which endeared him to his students and millions of people who learned from him via public platforms.”
President Ramaphosa said Prof. Seftel was a national treasure, whose love for his work and for the people of South Africa must be celebrated at this time of mourning and remembrance and must live on in the ethos of all healthcare professionals.
‒ Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| DEPUTY PRESIDENT MASHATILE LAUNCHES SOUTH AFRICAN CHAPTER OF THE GLOBAL ALLIANCE TO END AIDS IN CHILDREN BY 2030 |
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| Deputy President Paul Mashatile officially launched the South African Chapter of the Global Alliance to End AIDS in Children by 2030. |
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“We are concerned with HIV treatment gaps in children. Children living with HIV aged 15 years and below are left behind in the global HIV response when compared to the general population,” the Deputy President said.
The country’s second-in-command was speaking at the official commemoration of World AIDS Day as Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC) at the Mandeni Local Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal.
He described 1 December as an opportunity to strengthen unity to fight against HIV, support those living with HIV and remember those who succumbed to AIDS-related illnesses.
Globally, he said, only 52% of children who were living with HIV were on lifesaving treatment, compared to 76% of the adult population.
According to the Deputy President, this results in children accounting for 15% of AIDS-related deaths on an annual basis despite the fact that 4% of people living with HIV are children.
Meanwhile, stigma, discrimination, punitive laws and policies, violence and gender inequalities in eastern and southern Africa remain some of the barriers that hinder access to treatment, care and support for women, girls and children.
“Unfortunately, South Africa has the largest population of children living with HIV in the world, and as of June 2023, our treatment coverage for children is alarmingly low, coming in at 67%.”
He said the data raised concerns and emphasised the urgent need for increased efforts and resources to guarantee that every child who is HIV-positive receives the care and treatment they require.
In response to this challenge, government is working with the Joint United Nations (UN) Programme on HIV and AIDS, by coordinating UN agencies, including the UN Children's Fund and the World Health Organisation.
The other partners include the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief and the Global Fund, together with civil society, in establishing the Global Alliance to end AIDS in Children by 2030.
“The proclamation was first made at the 24th International AIDS Conference in Canada in 2022. South Africa was among the first 12 countries to join this alliance. As the South African Government, we are determined to fulfil our commitment to end AIDS in children,” he stressed.
This, according to the Deputy President, could be achieved by strengthening case finding among HIV-exposed infants and children and scaling up the initial HIV regimen to pregnant and breastfeeding women as per the revised clinical guidelines.
Meanwhile, government aims to also boost regular retesting of pregnant and breastfeeding women, increasing access to social protection programmes and addressing gender-based violence and femicide sexual assault and the abuse of infants, children, adolescents and women.
Government will also work around the clock to scale up advocacy for the enforcement of laws and the administration of justice.
“Collectively, we should strive to ensure universal access to treatment, eliminate mother-to-child transmission and confront prevailing prejudice and discrimination to foster a society that accepts and supports all individuals living with HIV, including our children.
“Together, we have the power to end the epidemic of HIV and AIDS,” he added.
‒ Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| MINISTER PANDOR AND MINISTER NZIMANDE CO-HOST THE SOUTHERN AFRICA REGIONAL PREPARATORY CONFERENCE FOR THE NINTH PAN-AFRICAN CONGRESS IN PRETORIA |
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| The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, and the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, co-hosted the Southern Africa Regional Preparatory Conference for the Ninth Pan-African Congress from 4 to 5 December 2023, in Pretoria. |
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Held under the theme, Pan-Africanism, Science, Knowledge and Technology, the conference was convened in the context of the African Union Decade for African Roots and Diaspora declared for the period 2021 to 2031.
Day one of the Regional Preparatory Conference took place at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation’s (DIRCO) OR Tambo Building on Monday, 4 December 2023.
Minister Pandor and Minister Nzimande delivered the welcoming remarks. Other participants included Dr Itah Kandjii-Murangi, the Minister of Higher Education, Technology and Innovation of the Republic of Namibia; and Professor Robert Dussey, the Togo Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Togolese Abroad.
Day two of the Regional Preparatory Conference took place at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Campus on Tuesday, 5 December 2023.
Dr Frank Chikane and Dr Julius Garvey (son of the iconic Marcus Garvey), among other important speakers, spoke on the topic: The Influence of Pan-Africanism on Africa’s International Relations and Development. Other topics included the Role of the Media in Shaping Perspectives on Pan-Africanism; Building a Better African Continent: Opportunities for Sustainable Growth; and The Role of Youth and Diaspora Youth in Building the Continent’s Potential.
The Southern Africa Regional Preparatory Conference was one of six regional preparatory conferences in the lead-up to the Ninth Pan-African Congress to be held in Lomé, Togo, in 2024.
The overall objective of the Southern African Regional Conference is to establish institutional links on the continent with the Diaspora in the areas of science, technology and innovation for the benefit of Africa’s socio-economic transformation and to address the continent’s prevalent challenges.
The conference brought together government ministers from southern African countries, as well as other government ministers and senior officials from beyond the region, science and innovation experts, academia, research institutions, private sector, afro-descendants’ institutions and other Pan-Africa institutions, to explore partnerships and scientific collaborations in the pursuit of continental progress as espoused in Agenda 2063.
‒ Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| 19 SOUTH AFRICANS ARRIVE FROM GAZA |
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| Nineteen South Africans who have been trapped in Gaza since the Israel-Hamas war broke out have returned home after being evacuated. |
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There were scenes of jubilation as the group, who have survived weeks of bloodshed and devastation in Gaza, was reunited with their loved ones at OR Tambo International Airport on Tuesday, 5 December 2023.
Before their plane touched down, Feroza Mayet told EWN that she was grateful her brother and two children had made it back home alive.
"My heart still goes out to the millions of other people out there who have no recourse in any way whatsoever, but their resistance and steadfastness inspire us."
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) confirmed in a statement that the group, which included 13 women, crossed over the Palestinian border into Egypt before flying home to South Africa.
"Six male and 13 female evacuated South Africans arrived safely in Cairo late on Monday night and are en route to South Africa to reach this afternoon," the statement from DIRCO read.
The statement added that the 19 South African citizens were initially approved for evacuation on 11 November but could not leave the war-torn country until this week.
"South Africa extends its gratitude to the Government of Egypt for granting the evacuated foreign nationals’ safe passage through the Rafah Crossing into its country."
Since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict on 7 October 2023, over 15 000 Palestinians have perished and over three-fourths of Gaza's 2.3 million residents have been forcibly displaced.
– Source: www.allafrica.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICA AND PERU HOLD INAUGURAL POLITICAL CONSULTATIONS |
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| The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes, hosted his counterpart, the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Peru, Ambassador Ignacio Higueras Hare, on Thursday, 30 November 2023, in Pretoria. |
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The visit coincided with the 30-year anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between South Africa and Peru.
Diplomatic relations between South Africa and Peru are cordial and conducted within the framework of the South Africa-Peru Bilateral Consultative Mechanism at the level of Deputy Minister, which was established in March 2019.
South Africa and Peru share similar values and a mutual commitment to the promotion of democracy, human rights, sustainable development, South-South cooperation, respect for the rule of international law, peaceful resolution of conflicts and multilateralism.
The deputy ministers used the occasion of the inaugural Political Consultations to review the status of bilateral relations between the two countries and discuss priorities for cooperation going forward, especially in the following areas: diplomatic and political relations; arts and culture; agribusiness; mineral resources; science and technology; tourism; trade and investment; and sport.
Deputy Minister Botes and Vice Minister Hare exchanged views on regional and multilateral issues of mutual concern.
South Africa commended the Government of Peru for honouring the late former President Nelson Mandela with a memorial installed in its capital city, San Isidro of Lima. The uniqueness of the memorial and its towering presence are recognition of the enduring bonds of friendship, solidarity and shared African heritage between the two countries.
The memorial is also an acknowledgment of the late President Mandela’s contribution to freedom and democracy in South Africa and his tireless advocacy for South-South cooperation and the establishment of a just and equitable global governance system.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA JOINS WORLD IN MARKING INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES |
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| The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities on Sunday, 3 December 2023, joined the global community in commemorating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), which aimed to promote the rights of people with disabilities at every level of society. |
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Observed every year on 3 December, the annual IDPD was proclaimed in 1992 by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly Resolution 47/3.
Globally, the day aims to promote the rights and well-being of people with disabilities at every level of society and to raise awareness of the situation and conditions of people with disabilities in all aspects of social, economic and cultural life.
The 2023 IDPD was commemorated under the theme: United in Action to Rescue and Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for, with and by Persons with Disabilities.
The organisations of the UN reaffirmed the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy that provides a foundation for sustainable and transformative progress on disability inclusion towards the complete realisation of the human rights of all people with disabilities.
As a member of the UN, the department said South Africa ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2007 and the African Union Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Africa in March 2022.
“In contributing to the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 7, South Africa has approved a White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities with an implementation matrix with set, clear indicators for implementation by duty bearers. The indicators also find expression in the National Development Plan 2030 and the Medium-Term Strategic Framework,” the department said in a statement.
The third of December also marks the end of Disability Rights Awareness Month observed from 3 November to 3 December.
The Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, on Sunday, 3 December 2023, joined the Gauteng Provincial Government and Special Olympics Committee, including organisations of and for people with disabilities and South Africa to observe and commemorate National Day of Persons with Disabilities.
‒ Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA COMMENDS CUBA’S SUPPORT IN THE WATER SECTOR |
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| The Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo, has commended the Cuban Government for its continued solidarity with the people of South Africa, particularly in the field of water and sanitation. |
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“The unwavering support that we receive from the Cuban Government has been amazing and we will forever be grateful for their commitment in ensuring that South Africa is being developed into a better state and to achieve a great life for its people,” Deputy Minister Mahlobo said.
He was speaking during the Seventh South Africa-Cuba High-Level Panel meeting with Cuba’s Institute of National Hydraulic Resources First Vice President, Bladimir Matos Moya, and a contingent of Cuban engineers deployed to South Africa as part of a long-standing cooperation agreement between the two states.
During the meeting, held in Pretoria, South Africa and Cuba reviewed the existing cooperation agreement between the two states in the areas of geo-hydrology and engineering services.
The two also committed to continue working together and strengthening existing relations.
“The expertise from Cuban engineers has assisted our country and our department a great deal in improving our technical capacity to manage our water infrastructure,” Deputy Minister Mahlobo said.
The Deputy Minister commended the experienced engineers from Cuba for imparting their vast knowledge to up-and-coming engineers at the department.
The department has a learning academy, which is tasked with unearthing young engineers to bridge the skills gap in the water sector.
“We offer bursaries and then absorb young engineers upon completion of their studies and we capacitate to acquire the required skills in many ways. This is where the expertise of Cuban engineers come in, to equip our newly graduated engineers to become better,” Deputy Minister Mahlobo said.
The Deputy Minister reiterated that water security was dependent on how the country manages its infrastructure and water resources, saying this could be achieved through cooperation with like-minded and developed countries.
The current cooperation agreement between the two states, which was entered into in 2020, is set to lapse in 2025 upon which a new agreement is expected to be entered into until 2030.
Deputy Minister Mahlobo said the 25 engineers assisting South Africa had been involved in electrical and mechanical operations and maintenance of pump stations and systems, dams, reservoirs associated with the electricity generation, mining industries and food production.
“They have also been assisting with hydraulic and civil engineering work in a regional bulk infrastructure project, control of expenses associated with infrastructure development in municipalities, drought relief programmes, [including] COVID-19 projects and approval of water-use licence applications. They have also been involved in the development of emergency preparedness plans for all dams according to the established regulations,” Deputy Minister Mahlobo said.
‒ Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SA TEENS TAKE ON THE ICE SHEETS OF ANTARCTICA IN ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION PROGRAMME |
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| Ice, penguins and 24 hours of sunlight are just some of the natural wonders that await five South African teens who will soon be embarking on the adventure of a lifetime to Antarctica. |
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The teens from around the country will be participating in the Matrics in Antarctica Programme, which aims to teach teens about sustainability while offering them a chance to experience life in one of Earth’s most remote places.
An initiative by South African explorer Riaan Manser and Professor Jonathan Jansen, the project aims to inspire young people who will finish high school at the end of 2024 to think about how they can make a difference within their communities to offset the effects of climate change and global warming.
Among the selected participants is #NotOnOurWatch African penguin survival campaign’s youth ambassador, Keira King. Seventeen-year-old King has already shown her deep commitment to helping protect our oceans and endangered species. |
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In 2022, she completed the Robben Island swim in Cape Town to support the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation’s Turtle Conservation Centre, and earlier this year, to raise awareness about the fact that endangered African penguins may be extinct by 2035, King completed a prone board paddle from Salmon Bay in Ballito to uShaka pier in Durban.
Joining King will be James Pringle from the Western Cape. Pringle has always loved nature and said he learnt to value sustainability while visiting his grandmother on her farm.
"I hope most to gain knowledge with regard to research directly from those working there, to further develop an understanding of what I could do in my future to aid the cause," he said.
Pringle is most looking forward to exploring ice tunnels while visiting Antarctica. The network of tunnels under the research base, which houses pipes and other infrastructure, is also home to numerous shrines.
Sibahle Fetile from the Eastern Cape describes himself as a science and environmental enthusiast. Fetile has lobbied for numerous community projects to conserve the environment, including convincing his school principal to change his decision to remove small trees on the school premises and cleaning local river systems.
He hopes to learn more about the unique ecosystem of Antarctica during the programme.
"I'm looking forward to experiencing the weather there, because I have never in my life been in a place that is completely covered in ice. I'm also looking forward to experiencing how human activities negatively impact that continent," he said.
Dimakatso Serite from Gauteng believes the programme offers the "opportunity of a lifetime".
She said her love for nature came from her parents and the family’s favourite pastime of watching National Geographic.
“Seeing how we negatively impact the environment has made me want to do anything to help and sometimes it’s the smallest things that make me feel capable of creating big change, like when I see bees pollinate flowers that I planted," said Serite.
"I already know how I can contribute to taking care of the environment, but I hope that this trip will give me more insight, especially insight that will incorporate my future career in Chemical Engineering or Physics with environmentalism."
Serite said what she was most looking forward to experiencing 24 hours of sunlight.
The fifth participant, Chloe Diedericks Boudouris, was not available for comment.
Among the experiences the matrics can look forward to, is learning to install solar panels at the research base.
Antarctica is a vital ecosystem because it deflects some of the sun's rays from Earth and is also home to a number of species of sea life.
Directly affected by global warming, the melting of some of Antarctica's ice sheets is causing sea levels to rise.
– Source: www.news24.com |
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| EXPEDITION H2O TRIUMPHS: SA CHARITY RIDERS CONQUER AFRICA |
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| Expedition H2O: Two intrepid riders overcame African challenges, reaching Spain on a charity journey for water security. |
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Expedition H2O has successfully reached Spain after a challenging journey that spanned the diverse landscapes of Africa. Dr Jean Cooper and Dr De Witt Oosthuizen set out on this epic 16 000-km journey from Pretoria to Madrid on 16 September 2023, and their expedition is set to conclude in the coming weeks, just in time for Christmas.
The dynamic duo, with backgrounds in organisational psychology and emergency medicine, navigated their way through approximately 20 African countries, facing rain, mud, dust, sand and heat. From bustling cities to remote villages, muddy rivers to rain-drenched mountain passes and sandy desert roads to the fine orange dust that enveloped them, the journey was an extraordinary adventure that tested their resilience. |
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Despite encountering menacing military checkpoints and navigating stressful detours to avoid war zones, the riders found solace in the warmth of countless instances of hospitality from helpful strangers.
Dr Cooper shared, “The greatest highlights of the journey so far were probably the mighty Congo River, the rain forests and the gorillas we saw crossing the road. The relief we felt when we survived the nightmarish ride across the mountains connecting Cameroon and Nigeria. The vast expanses of the Sahara. The incredible magnanimity of the people we met all along the way. And to see how much people can stack on a tiny 125cc motorcycle.”
This charitable mission, a partnership with the Direct Transact Foundation, aims to support water-relief initiatives in the rural Free State of South Africa. The riders are proud of the progress the foundation has made and are eager to witness the impact of their fundraising first-hand when they visit the Free State.
Their ultimate goal is to raise funds for water tank installations in under-resourced communities, specifically in the Warden rural area of the Free State.
Sponsors and partners have rallied behind Expedition H2O, including the World Wide Fund for Nature, computing company Stratus, the Tavistock Institute of Human Relations and many others. The riders are seeking to raise R3.2 million, equivalent to R200 for each kilometre of their journey.
Dr Cooper explained, “Every 3.5 km (R700) gives access to water to one person. Every 14km (R2 800) to one family. And every 160 km (R32 000) will sponsor one tank – enough for 12 families.”
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| CAPE TOWN’S CULTURE CRACKS THE CITY A SPOT ON ANOTHER GLOBAL HOTSPOT LIST |
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| Cape Town is relishing in yet another accolade after cracking a spot on a renowned World’s Best List celebrating global hotspots of culture around the world. |
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Time Out, which annually quiz local experts on a variant of global hotspot topics, including the World’s Coolest Streets, another list Cape Town has made, took to a fresh voting session from savvy travellers to find the world’s best cities for culture.
Roughly 21 000 people cast their votes for the first-time ranking. It was compiled both from the perspective of worldwide travellers and locals, with each city scored based on both quality and affordability.
Not only did Cape Town make the list, but the mother city near-dominated it after knocking other culturally beloved cities off the charts and coming in third place.
According to Time Out, Cape Town beat “cultural heavyweights” like Paris, New York and Amsterdam. South Africa’s prized city was also the only city in sub-Saharan Africa to make the list at all, and only one other African city (Marrakech) joined it in position 13.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SEA WALLS PROJECT WRAPS UP AND LEAVES A LASTING LEGACY |
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| The inaugural “Sea Walls: Artists for Oceans” public art project in Africa has left a lasting legacy for ocean conservation and community activism in Cape Town. |
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With a buzz of excitement earlier this month, PangeaSeed Foundation’s Sea Walls South Africa as presented by the Save our Seas Foundation began. The project united mural artists across South Africa and the world to spruce up the walls of 16 buildings in Cape Town for the betterment of the seas close by and far beyond.
The process
Together,18 mural artists (four from overseas) adorned the walls with powerful works on important ocean topics ‒ from the scourge of plastic pollution to the need for community action to protect ocean livelihoods.
Overseas artists DULK from Spain; Germany’s Yeye Weller; Cracked Ink from New Zealand and United States street artist Lauren YS joined top South African artists Amy Lee Tak, Aweh Migo, Breeze Yoko, Care One, DBongz, Sergical One, Dirty Native, Marie-Louise Koen, Marti Macfly, Motel Seven, SonnySundancer and These10Fingers for the Cape Town activation.
Armed with acrylic and spray paints, swing stages or cherry picker cranes, the artists added 18 works to PangeaSeed’s network of more than 500 murals in 19 countries. They worked across a wide area of the Cape Peninsula, including Gardens, Kalk Bay, Newlands, Muizenberg, Sea Point, Camps Bay, Cape Town CBD and Salt River.
Beyond the paint
In the lead-up to a week of painting, the artists and visiting team were treated to some of the natural treasures the Cape has to offer and got to be part of keeping these treasures in their best condition. This included a visit to the Save Our Seas Foundation Shark Centre, swimming in tidal pools, surfing with the Sentinel Ocean Alliance and a beach clean-up at Muizenberg with the Beach Co-op.
Why sea walls?
For the Pangeaseed Foundation, a drop of paint can create an ocean of change.
As such, 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 peoples’ connection with nature, we strive to promote ocean stewards who can help advocate for the health of our oceans.”
Of the freshly painted sea walls, Shani Judes, Project Director of Sea Walls South Africa, shared: “These walls have a lifespan of up to seven years and will serve as a constant reminder to Capetonians and visitors to the Cape of the interconnectedness of all life on our planet, the importance of collaboration in these difficult times and the vital role of the oceans in sustaining life on Earth.”
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| BEAST PHILANTHROPY WINS AT EIGHTH ANNUAL SHORTY IMPACT AWARDS IN LOS ANGELES |
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| Beast Philanthropy’s “We Adopted an Orphanage” has won the Global Impact of the Year Award and the Audience Honour Award on the YouTube platform at the eighth Annual Shorty Impact Awards. |
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We Saved an Orphanage
Created to showcase the work done by Mr Beast, the first video in the series about the Baphumelele orphanage aired on 11 January 2023 – We Saved an Orphanage ‒ and helped raise R10 million to rebuild the children’s home in Khayelitsha, saving the children from asbestos poisoning and renovating all 13 houses at the orphanage.
The video received more than 17 million views and as it continually grows, so do the donations to the upkeep of the orphanage.
We Adopted an Orphanage
Seven months later, after changing the lives of the children at the orphanage and its founder, Mama Rosie, the team released a second video – We Adopted an Orphanage – to continue raising awareness to ensure the children’s home remained successful and sustainable.
The goal was to create collaborations with organisations from around the world to ensure the orphanage received consistent, essential support.
Commitment to positive and sustainable change
The Global Impact of the Year Award and the Audience Honour Award on the YouTube platform recognise how effortlessly the video captures Beast Philanthropy’s unwavering commitment to positive and sustainable change.
“The Shorty Impact Awards are dedicated to celebrating purpose-driven work from global brands, agencies and non-profits that make the world a better place, which makes this recognition even more special,” says Mace.
“The film captured the heart of South African culture and the ethos of Beast Philanthropy along with using digital and visual content as a vehicle to make a lasting difference.”
Mace brings a unique South African flavour to the content developed by Joe (JOE) for Beast Philanthropy in a collaboration built on shared values and the commitment to purpose-driven work through philanthropy.
The impact of the videos has been transformative and the Beast Philanthropy YouTube channel showcases how philanthropic work within the digital realm can make a lasting impact.
All the revenue earned through the channel is used to pursue the organisation’s mission.
– Source: www.bizcommunity.com |
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| TREVOR NOAH HONOURED IN THE NETHERLANDS |
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| The comedian is the first South African to win the prestigious award worth R3 million. |
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Trevor Noah has been awarded the 2023 Erasmus Prize. Noah collected the prize, worth R3 million in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, on Wednesday evening, 29 November 2023.
The Erasmus Prize is awarded by the Praemium Erasmianum Foundation, in an annual ceremony, to a person or institution that has made an exceptional contribution to the humanities, social sciences or the arts in Europe and beyond.
In his acceptance speech, the former The Daily Show host said it was unbelievable how being a comedian had changed his life.
“It is truly an honour to be standing here as a recipient of this prestigious accolade. And to be honest, it’s really a little unbelievable. Mostly because I never thought there was anything that could bring me to Amsterdam in the winter.”
He also took it to his social media platforms to express his excitement and those who kept him company during the ceremony.
“Thank you for the warm welcome Netherlands! It was truly an honour to be awarded the 2023 Erasmus Prize!! Special thanks to the Praemium Erasmianum Foundation, His Majesty the King Willem-Alexander and The Royal Family. Humberto Tan, for the delightful conversation and lastly, everyone that attended last night in Amsterdam,” he posted.
Noah is the first South African and comedian to win the prestigious honour.
The foundation in a statement said Noah was awarded because of his inspired contribution to the theme “In Praise of Folly”, named after Erasmus’ most famous book “which is filled with humour, social criticism and political satire”.
“With his sharp-minded, mocking yet inclusive political comedy, Noah, in the eyes of the jury, upholds the ‘Erasmian Spirit’,” read the statement.
– Source: www.sowetanlive.co.za |
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| LOCAL FASHION DESIGNERS CELEBRATED FOR DAZZLING WORKS AT FASHION WEEKS |
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| South African designers, alongside other African names to know in fashion, were recently celebrated for their collections’ homecoming after having dazzled at Paris and Milan fashion weeks. |
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Snippets of two Fashion Week experiences were suitcased and sent to Cape Town recently. There, local fashion designers as well as other African names in fashion to know and root for, were celebrated for major milestones in the industry.
Still infatuated with the sense of accomplishment after having showcased at Paris and Milan Fashion Week, these designers were the pride and joy of the weekend for lovers of the craft. |
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Their showcases at the big fashion weeks matter (especially from an African perspective) for many reasons, not least because of the exposure it spotlights on non-Western creativity.
This is something South African creatives of all skills and backgrounds have relished this year (such as Thebe Magugu and Lukhanyo Mdingi) and will hopefully set the tone for a dazzling near future for more local masterpieces.
Two South African designers and their creations (Belle Togs by Keke Moeca, who is based in Gauteng, and Molebatsi, founded by Jessica Jane and Wandile Molebatsi) lit up a runway made specifically to celebrate their achievements at the picture-perfect Mount Nelson Hotel to an international audience.
Joining their walks on stage were collections from Christopher Emef by Christopher Emefiele (British-Nigerian) and Safiètou Seck’s SARAYYA (Senegal).
Twenty models had the honour of walking their designs, which was a milestone in its own right as these talents were scouted as part of an empowerment programme.
All of the collections ‒ each a thrill in its own stature ‒ were proudly welcomed and praised through applause galore.
Beyond a celebration and homecoming of their designs at the most important events in the world of fashion, the gathering was also the signal of something new ‒ the Pan African Luxury group (Africa’s top designers) who will be presented in New York City, Paris and Milan in 2024 alongside international designers. This curation of our continent’s talent is not only a chance for more showcases that equalise non-Western talent in fashion with designers from around the world but also paves the path for more African designers to get their moments in the sun.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| LITTLE LOCAL BALLERINO DANCES HIS WAY TO A BURSARY OPPORTUNITY IN NEW YORK |
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| Thomas La Grange, the budding ballerino from Kommetjie, is on the cusp of the opportunity of a lifetime after having shot the lights out at an audition that earned him a bursary to a New York ballet school. |
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From the age of nine years old, little local ballerino has committed to his dancing dreams.
In a few short years, the now 12-year-old’s hard work has afforded him the chance to share the spotlight on career-making stages, including Cape Town’s Artscape, where he won the role of Michael in Peter Pan & Tinkerbell. The young ballerino also graced stages alongside talents of the world like Vadim Muntagirov and Fumi Kaneko ‒ all before his 12th birthday. Impressed? So was the Junior City of Cape Town Ballet, which La Grange now dances for.
La Grange’s story is unique for reasons beyond achievements and a determined willingness to adapt and dazzle. For the blossoming ballerino who started his dancing path during lockdown, he opted to follow his dreams from a screen, learning and honing his talents via Zoom calls.
All of these attributes have led to a massive moment for La Grange ‒ a 45% bursary to join New York’s American Academy of Ballet’s Summer School after a shining audition earlier this month.
It’s the cusp of a come-up story that could set La Grange on the path to the stages and the chance to wholly immerse himself in a world of dancers from every corner of it.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| BLITZBOKS SOAR TO VICTORY IN DUBAI SEVENS OPENER |
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| The Blitzboks dominated the Dubai Sevens, clinching their fifth consecutive title with a commanding victory over Argentina and setting the stage for a triumphant SVNS campaign. |
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In a dazzling display of skill and determination, the Springbok Sevens have set the tone for their 2024 HSBC SVNS campaign with a resounding victory in Dubai. The Blitzboks secured their triumph by defeating Argentina 12-7 in a thrilling final at the Emirates Dubai Sevens on Sunday, 3 December 2023.
The team, led by the new captain, Selvyn Davids, showcased exceptional teamwork and resilience throughout the tournament. The Blitzboks, who held a commanding 12-0 lead at halftime in the final, sealed their fifth consecutive title at the event. This triumph not only speaks volumes about the team’s prowess on the field but also underscores their commitment to excellence.
Assistant coach Philip Snyman, filling in for head coach, Sandile Ngcobo, attributed the success to meticulous preparation. Snyman commended the entire squad for their dedication and extended appreciation to the absent Ngcobo for his role in the team’s preparation.
“Coach Sandile deserves a lot of credit for preparing the squad so well over the last couple of months. The rest of our management also deserves this win; everyone did more than was asked,” emphasised Snyman. He further praised the squad’s performance, highlighting their defensive prowess and willingness to support each other.
The victory in Dubai also showcased the healthy competition within the team, with newcomers Quewin Nortje and Katlego Letebele making significant contributions. Snyman acknowledged the positive impact of these additions, noting that the energetic newcomers, combined with the experience of seasoned players, formed a winning formula.
Selvyn Davids, in his inaugural outing as captain, expressed gratitude for the fierce competition within the squad. “This is a tough team to get selected for, as there are a lot of good players back home that could have been here as well. We really push each other, and that is a good thing,” remarked Davids.
As the team celebrates their success in Dubai, the focus now shifts to the upcoming HSBC Cape Town SVNS, where the Blitzboks aim to continue their winning streak and build on the positive momentum gained in the opening tournament. The resilient spirit, teamwork and skill displayed by the Blitzboks in Dubai set the stage for what promises to be an exciting and successful SVNS campaign.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| BANYANA BANYANA QUALIFIES FOR WAFCON AS JANINE VAN WYK BREAKS AFRICAN RECORD |
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| Janine van Wyk became the most capped African footballer on Monday, 4 December 2023, after making a 185th appearance for Banyana Banyana in a 2-0 African Women's Cup of Nations qualifying win over Burkina Faso. |
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She overtook Egyptian Ahmed Hassan, who held the record since retiring in 2012, having represented his country 184 times.
Central defender Van Wyk, 36, played for eight minutes against the Burkinabe in the western Pretoria township of Atteridgeville before being substituted and then confirming her retirement.
She debuted for South Africa in 2005, reached 100 caps nine years later and matched Hassan by playing in a drawn first leg against Burkina Faso last week.
Her highlights with Banyana Banyana (The Girls) included playing at the 2019 World Cup and the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games.
Van Wyk was close to tears as she hugged her teammates before leaving the Atteridgeville pitch.
"I am deeply grateful to all those who helped me during my long career. I could not have achieved this amazing feat without the help of many others," she said after the game.
"It is important for senior players like me to accept that younger players are seeking selection. We must develop them, make them feel at home, then we must step aside."
South Africa is the defending Women's Cup of Nations champion, having beaten hosts Morocco in the 2022 final and the 3-1 aggregate win over Burkina Faso clinched a place at the next finals.
Apart from playing for JVW, a Johannesburg club she formed, Van Wyk had spells with Houston Dash, Fortuna Hjorring in Denmark and Glasgow City.
– Source: AFP |
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| HOLLY SMITH EARNS ANOTHER WORLD TITLE WHILE COMPETING IN AUSTRALIA |
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| Holly Smith has won yet another world title in Australia, this time the title of Junior Women (U18) 2023 Ocean Racing World Champion. |
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Camps Bay High School recently announced that Grade 11 learner, Holly Smith, has emerged victorious yet again, claiming the title of Junior Women (U18) 2023 Ocean Racing World Champion. In an awe-inspiring display of skill and determination, Smith conquered the challenging course in Perth, Australia, securing her second world championship title this year.
The fiercely competitive event saw Smith soaring across the finish line with a remarkable time of 01:32:7.2, firmly establishing her as the frontrunner. Her outstanding performance positioned her ahead of formidable competitors Lara Cellier-Henriquez from Spain and Alyssa Bailey from Australia, claiming the top spot against a field of elite paddlers from across the globe. |
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Reflecting on her monumental achievement, Smith shared her exhilarating experience, stating, “The race was hard, started off very fast and hard for 2kms into the wind where you just have to grind and then you turn and you don’t know where anyone is – you can’t see because of the runs. There were nice conditions, runs linked with the wind pumping and then down to the finish. At the finish, I wasn’t sure where I had come and then someone came up and told me I had won and I couldn’t believe it! I was so stoked!”
Smith’s dedication to her sport is evident in her relentless training regimen, spending countless hours honing her skills on the water. Her commitment has led her to secure not just one but two prestigious world championship titles in 2023. Earlier this year, she clinched the Junior Women (U18) K2 Canoe Marathon Championship alongside her K2 partner, Georgia Singe, at the ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships in Denmark.
Busi Ngcwama, Head of Sport at Camps Bay High School, expressed immense pride in Smith’s achievements, stating, “We are incredibly proud of Smith’s remarkable accomplishment in becoming a two-time World Champion. Her unwavering dedication, hard work and never-give-up attitude make her an inspiration to the entire school community.”
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| FIVE GOLD MEDALS FROM LE CLOS AND A PROMISING SPLASH FOR ANOTHER OLYMPICS |
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| Chad le Clos, earned five gold medals in Germany, leading to local celebrations and a promising splash for another Olympics. |
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Le Clos was well in his element last week as he competed in the German Short Course Nationals. Across events, he claimed five gold medals and in the process, reminded South Africa that his focus on Olympic preparations is razor-sharp despite the setbacks he has faced in recent times.
The Olympian has openly shared that his eyes aren’t just on another Olympics, but podium positions following a Tokyo season that didn’t go according to plan in 2021.
However, Le Clos has remained steadfast in his goals despite injuries and prolonged illnesses that kept him from the World Long-Course Championships.
While the waves to the Paris 2024 Olympics still need to be navigated, South Africans have united in backing Le Clos back to victory.
Of his recent five gold medals and speedster reclaim, supporters of the athlete who has made us all proud time and time again celebrated the moment as a comeback; sharing sentiments of thanks for his position as an athlete dedicated to waving our flag high.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| JI-JITSU DON LUKE GRIFFITH PRAISED AS “AMONG THE WORLD’S BEST” |
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| Luke Griffith, the jiu-jitsu legend in the making, just won another event after being crowned the champion of Europe and has been credited as among the best of the best. |
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Griffith brought great pride to South Africa after he was crowned the Jiu-Jitsu champion of Europe at the Euro NoGi 2023.
Wasting no time in conquering more competitions against serious opponents, he recently won another event and earned huge praise for his rising career.
“Let this be your notice: Luke Griffith is among the best in the world”, experts from FloGrappling weighed in after his winning performance in the Who’s Number One (WNO) shows.
For the proud South African who trains under John Danaher in Austin, Texas, every new victory is a step closer to his status as a legendary competitor.
To date, Griffith has an impressive track record that placed him in the Top 15 NO-Gi Jiu-Jitsu names to know, just over a month ago.
His recent WNO win has seen him be commended for his quick momentum and even those who have competed against him have sang his praises and shared affirmation that he would have an outstanding career.
Having come a long way from his garage gym in Johannesburg, his talent has taken him all over the world as he continues to defend his title as “the South African giant” both for his size and stature in the world of jiu-jitsu.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| FULL HOUSE OF SOUTH AFRICAN PADDLERS QUALIFY FOR THE OLYMPICS |
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| Four South African paddlers from the men’s and women’s crews have cruised to Olympic qualifying positions; the largest qualified team for South African paddlers since 2008. |
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The South African canoeing team emerged from a “tough” week at the African Championships in Nigeria, over the past weekend and in doing so, secured all four available places for South African athletes in Paris.
The men’s and women’s K2 500m crews of Chrisjan Coetzee and Nicholas Weeks, and Esti Olivier and Helen Jansen van Vuuren respectively emerged as African champions in Olympic qualifying events held on Jabi Lake in Abuja, Nigeria, recently and in doing so, secured all four available places for South African athletes in Paris.
However, there was more to celebrate as the small team of five kayakers also dominated the non-Olympic events to end the championships with nine golds. That was good enough to top the medal table despite South Africa entering only kayaks and thus no “C” boats or Para canoeist into the championships.
Coetzee and Weeks won the 500m K2 men’s event with Olivier and Jansen van Vuuren doing the same in the women’s 500m, confirming four seats on the South African Olympic team’s flight to Paris next year.
Included in the other wins for the team was a 500m K1 victory for Olivier, which would also have been good enough for an Olympic place had the two K2 spots not filled the quota of four places available for the South African squad.
Callam Davis ensured all five members of the team returned with gold medals when he won the 200m K1, although that was not an Olympic qualifying event.
Canoeing South Africa President, Kim Pople, was ecstatic with the results.
“At Canoeing South Africa, we are so excited to have qualified two men and two women athletes for the Paris Olympics at the African Championships and Paris 2024 Continental Olympic Qualifier.
“Now the focus switches to the selection process and who will be in those boats. The selection event will take place sometime in March at VLC in Johannesburg and the sprint committee will then be selecting the team that will go to Paris.
“With four paddlers going to Paris, it will be our biggest team since 2008 that we will be sending to the Olympics for sprinting. Hopefully, this is just the spark that is going to re-ignite the sprint discipline back to its rightful place in South Africa.”
Pople adds: “From myself to the five athletes that were at the qualifiers for South Africa, I just salute them. It was not easy. There was a lot of ’off the water stuff’ going on, so I am just really, really proud that we stuck to the job they had to do.
“We stuck together as a team and looked after each other,” said Pople, before adding that the team could now take some time off to “celebrate what is a massive achievement for South African canoeing.”
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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