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| SEEDS FOR A BETTER 2024 HAVE BEEN SOWN – PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA |
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| Although South Africa continues to face challenges from various quarters, the groundwork for a better 2024 has been laid. |
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This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who addressed the nation through his weekly newsletter.
The President acknowledged that 2023 has been a testing year for the country – with intense load shedding, Transnet’s challenges and a sluggish economy being just some of the worst challenges faced.
“Our economy has been weighed down by international events, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and instability in the global economy. Like many across the world, South Africans have faced a substantial rise in the cost of our living. Our post-COVID recovery has been held back by continuing load shedding and inefficiency at our ports and railways. |
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“Yet, even in these circumstances, companies have continued to invest in our economy. At the fifth South Africa Investment Conference earlier this year, we surpassed our target for new investment commitments over five years. Our economy has grown, albeit too slowly and far below its potential. The number of people in employment has returned to pre-COVID levels, but jobs are still not being created fast enough to reduce levels of our unemployment,” he said.
President Ramaphosa conceded that the electricity crisis is “currently the main threat to our country’s progress”.
However, the work of the Energy Action Plan – launched in July 2022 – is beginning to show results, “giving us greater confidence that we will bring load shedding to an end”.
“While we experienced some of the worst load shedding ever in the first few months of the year, there has been a measurable and steady decline in the severity of load shedding over the last few months.
“Although electricity supply is still not stable, as we experienced in the last few weeks, the overall trend is towards less severe load shedding. Damaged units at the Kusile power station have been returned to service ahead of schedule and plant maintenance has received close attention.
“What gives us hope for even further improvements is the progress that has been made in bringing new electricity generation online. Regulatory reforms we have initiated have enabled a massive increase in private investment in electricity generation, with over 12 000 MW of confirmed projects in development. Following the introduction of tax incentives and financing mechanisms, the amount of installed rooftop solar has more than doubled to over 4 500 MW in the last year,” he said.
Tackling challenges
President Ramaphosa listed several interventions and measures that have been taken to address the country’s challenges including:
- Government working closely with Transnet, industry and other social partners to relieve congestion at ports and increase the volumes of freight being carried on key rail corridors
- Significant infrastructure projects in areas including social housing, road construction, rural bridges and dams which contribute to greater economic activity and provide much-needed infrastructure for economic growth and the needs of citizens
- Undertaking reforms in other areas to improve the competitiveness of the economy in areas such as proceeding with the digital migration of broadcasting service to free up broadband spectrum and reduce the cost of data
- The continuation of the special Social Relief of Distress grant introduced during COVID-19 which has kept millions of people out of poverty
- On employment, President Ramaphosa said the Presidential Employment Stimulus has created work and livelihood opportunities for some 1.2 million people.
He added that breakthroughs have been made in combatting crime with governance improvements also recorded.
“The SAPS’ economic infrastructure task teams have made important breakthroughs and arrests for illegal mining, cash-in-transit hikes, cable theft, drug smuggling and similar crimes. We have recruited and trained thousands of new police personnel to further strengthen the fight against crime.
“We are implementing legislation to build a more professional, ethical and capable public service. There has been important progress in other areas, including towards the introduction of a National Health Insurance to ensure greater equity in the provision of health care,” he said.
The President said that while “times are still tough” much progress has been made but there is “still some way to go”.
“What is most important is that we have done much of the groundwork needed to put our economy on a path of faster growth and job creation. By working together, by staying the course, we have used the last year to lay the basis for a better 2024.
“On Friday this week, we will mark a special public holiday to celebrate the historic victory of the Springboks in the Rugby World Cup. Their victory, alongside many other achievements by South Africans on the global stage, is a reminder of our country’s tremendous strengths and the promise that it holds.
“Let us come together on Friday to remind ourselves of everything that we love about South Africa. Let it be a day of hope, celebration and unity. I wish all South Africans a safe, peaceful and restful festive season as we all prepare for a successful new year,” President Ramaphosa concluded.
‒ Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| REMEMBERING PRESIDENT MANDELA |
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| Cabinet has joined the nation in reflecting on the life and legacy of the father of the nation and the first democratically elected President of South Africa, Tata Nelson Mandela. |
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The former President passed away on December 5, 2013, with this year marking a decade since his passing.
“As we look ahead to the milestone of 30 Years of Freedom in 2024, along with our seventh National and Provincial elections, we can proudly say that our democracy remains strong,” Cabinet said in a statement on Monday, 11 December 2023.
Tata Madiba, as he was affectionately known, died at the age of 95 at his Houghton home in Johannesburg, Gauteng.
In his address to the National Council of Provinces in Parliament last week, Deputy President Paul Mashatile honoured the former President and called on leaders to recommit themselves to the former statesman's vision of providing a better life for all South Africans.
“We do not only recall but rededicate ourselves to the vision of our founding President - that of building a better life for all,” said Deputy President Mashatile.
‒ Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| DEPUTY PRESIDENT ON WORKING VISIT TO SOUTHEAST ASIA |
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| Deputy President Paul Mashatile arrived in the Republic of Singapore on Sunday, 10 December 2023 and began the first leg of his first working visit to Southeast Asia. |
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The Deputy President began his visit with a tour of the Marina Barrage development, Singapore’s innovate water resource management project.
As a resource-poor and water-scarce country, Singapore has invested significantly in research and development of water management and sustainability. Most impressively, the country has made big strides in the area of seawater desalination.
“The Deputy President’s visit to the country was aimed at building and strengthening bilateral relations, particularly increasing trade, economic, knowledge and cultural exchange between the two States,” The Presidency said in a statement. |
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Singapore is a global financial hub and is considered one of the premier asset management centres in Asia. The World Bank has ranked Singapore as the number one country in the world for ease of doing business since 2006 and the country is an important global aviation and maritime hub.
Singapore is also considered an important gateway for the export of goods and services to Southeast Asia and a hub for joint venture partnerships throughout Asia. It is an important centre for South African businesses looking for opportunities to expand operations on the continent.
As part of his programme, Deputy President Mashatile visited the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy and delivered a public lecture on the 30 years of diplomatic relations between South Africa and Singapore titled Celebrating a Journey of Mutual Respect, Strategic Partnership and Cooperation.
The Deputy President was accompanied in Singapore by Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Candith Mashego-Dlamini; Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Nomalungelo Gina; Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Buti Manamela; Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Technologies, Philly Mapulane; Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Magdalene Sotyu; and senior government officials.
Trade and diplomatic links
One of the key areas of collaboration between South Africa and Singapore is trade. Singapore is one of South Africa's largest trading partners in Southeast Asia, with trade between the two countries totalling approximately R28 billion in 2022.
Singapore is a significant investor in South Africa, with investments totalling over R5 billion in sectors such as manufacturing, financial services and real estate.
South Africa's economic relations with Singapore are focussed on trade, investment, tourism promotion and skills transfer.
South Africa exports a range of products to Singapore, including gold, diamonds and wine, while Singapore exports electronics, chemicals and machinery to South Africa.
In May this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong of the Republic of Singapore for an Official Visit in Cape Town.
Singapore’s visit to South Africa continued the high-level engagement the two governments have fostered since diplomatic relations begun in 1993, ahead of South Africa’s democratic transition.
Since then, the two countries have shared excellent bilateral relations, which have formed the basis of regular high-level visits.
2023 marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Singapore as partners who work together closely in multinational fora.
Singapore, like South Africa, is a member of the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the Commonwealth, as well as the Non-Aligned Movement.
The two countries have signed numerous agreements to enhance cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, education and defence.
In May, President Ramaphosa and Prime Minister Hsien Loong held official talks on cooperation in the areas of communications and digital technology, science and innovation, water and sanitation and skills development.
The leaders discussed the potential for closer collaboration in these areas when they met on the sidelines of the G20 Leaders’ Summit held in Bali in 2022.
The visit brought captains of industry from the respective countries to collaborate in sectors ranging from ports, logistics and supply chain, healthcare and biomedical, food manufacturing and engineering.
‒ Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| DEPUTY PRESIDENT MASHATILE VISITS SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM IN THE SECOND LEG OF HIS WORKING VISIT TO SOUTHEAST ASIA |
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| Deputy President Paul Mashatile arrived on 13 December 2023, in Hanoi, the capital of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to begin the second leg of his first Working Visit to Southeast Asia. |
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The Deputy President began his visit with a tour of the Mausoleum and home of the late leader of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh. The Deputy President laid a wreath at the Mausoleum and conveyed a message of support from the people and government of South Africa through the Mausoleum’s visitors’ book.
South Africa and Vietnam enjoy friendly and constructive relations grounded in a shared history of struggle against colonialism and to achieve national freedom. The two countries share common values such as the pursuit of multilateral cooperation, peace and the progressive reform of the institutions of global governance to counter geopolitical inequalities. |
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South Africa and Vietnam also celebrate 30 years of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations this year.
In the course of the last 30 years, several bilateral legal instruments have been established in various areas of co-operation. The two countries operate an Inter-Governmental Partnership Forum for economic, trade, scientific, technical and cultural co-operation, aimed at facilitating co-operation in areas of mutual interest.
The Deputy President’s visit follows the visit to South Africa of the Vice President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, HE Ms Vo Thi Anh Xuan, in September this year, where she extended an invitation to the Deputy President to pay a reciprocal official visit to mark the 30-year milestone and further strengthen bilateral ties.
As part of his duties in Vietnam, the Deputy President will hold official talks with Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan, meet Prime Minister HE Mr Pham Minh Chinh and pay a courtesy call on the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, HE Mr Vo Van Thong.
He will also meet with the CEOs of some of Vietnam’s largest companies that are looking either to invest in or source goods and services from South Africa. He will also interact with African ambassadors to Vietnam.
The Deputy President was accompanied by Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Candith Mashego-Dlamini; Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Nomalungelo Gina; Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Buti Manamela; Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Maggie Sotyu; and senior government officials.
‒ Source: The Presidency.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA CONDEMNS THE PROPOSED MARCH BY THE ULTRA-NATIONALIST ORGANISATIONS TO THE AL-AQSA COMPOUND AND THE ONGOING MASSACRES IN GAZA |
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| The Government of the Republic of South Africa has noted with concern the Israeli police’s decision to allow a proposed march by ultra-nationalist organisations and other groups in Jerusalem’s Old City and the Islamic Quarter, calling for the “re-establishment of Jewish control” over the Al-Aqsa Mosque. |
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The demand by the marchers goes against the historical and legal status quo of the occupied Jerusalem and its holy sites. The Administration Department of Awqaf and Al-Aqsa Mosque Affairs/Jerusalem of.
If allowed to go ahead, these unacceptable actions would coincide with an already alarming war on the Gaza Strip and may without a doubt further exacerbate the current situation on the ground and by implication, the whole region.
Since 2003 to date, raids on Al-Aqsa by far-right organisations and individuals, including by Israeli senior leaders, have been allowed to continue unabated by the Israeli police with the unilateral decision of Israel and the initiatives of some far-right organisations. Israel as the occupying power has specific obligations in terms of international human rights and humanitarian law, in particular concerning holy sites. However, the Israeli Government continues to breach these obligations with no accountability.
South Africa is also gravely distraught about the kidnapping of 100 unarmed Palestinian men, including children as young as 15 years old. The men and children were kidnapped by Israeli occupation forces from a school sheltering displaced refugees in the northern Gaza Strip. It is inconceivable that women and children had to witness the men who were taken from an environment that was meant to be their place of safety being stripped naked and humiliated.
South Africa commends the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), Mr António Guterres, for taking the rightful decision to invoke Article 99 of the UN Charter, to push for a Gaza cease-fire. Article 99, which was last invoked during fighting in 1971 that led to the creation of Bangladesh and its separation from Pakistan until now, is a clear indication that Israel’s current bombardment on Gaza is a threat to international peace and security. South Africa also concurs with the Secretary-General’s assertion that the situation in Gaza is at risk of a “complete collapse” of the territory’s humanitarian system and civil order.
The South African Government calls on the international community to take immediate action to put an end to ongoing Israeli violations in the occupied territories and for Israel to commit to reviving a political process, leading to ending the occupation so that the human rights of all are secured.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za |
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| MINISTER PANDOR TO HOST HER AUSTRIAN COUNTERPART FOR BILATERAL CONSULTATIONS |
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| The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host the Austrian Federal Minister for European and International Affairs, Mr Alexander Schallenberg, for bilateral consultations. |
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The visit by Minister Schallenberg will serve as a platform to discuss South Africa-Austria bilateral relations as well as international issues of mutual concern.
South Africa and Austria have longstanding bilateral relations, which are currently on an upward trajectory, with South Africa having successfully hosted the Third Meeting of the South Africa-Austria Bilateral Consultations in Pretoria on 7 June 2022, and with the prospect of a State Visit from Austria planned for 2024.
The main areas of cooperation are:
- trade and investment
- higher education, science and innovation
- energy
- environment
- arts and culture.
South Africa is positioned as Austria’s main trade and investment partner in Africa. Almost a third of Austria’s exports to Africa are destined for the South African market and more than a third of all African exports to Austria come from South Africa.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za |
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| DEPUTY MINISTER BOTES TO TRAVEL TO RUSSIA AND BELARUS FOR POLITICAL CONSULTATIONS |
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| The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes, undertook a Working Visit from 11 to 14 December 2023, to Russia and Belarus. The purpose of the Working Visit to Eastern Europe was for Political Consultations at Deputy Minister level. |
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Russia
South Africa and Russia enjoy excellent bilateral relations at a strategic level, bilaterally and in the multilateral sphere. The Working Visit to Russia will be an opportunity for both countries to focus their efforts on deepening these ties, especially in the area of economic cooperation where considerable progress is being made but has not yet reached the level of political relations.
During the visit of Minister Sergey Lavrov to South Africa in January 2023, it was agreed that Political Consultations between South Africa and the Russian Federation should take place at the level of Deputy Ministers. This meeting between Deputy Minister Botes and Deputy Minister Bogdanov will form the First Round of Political Consultations following the commitment made during the visit of Minister Lavrov.
South Africa’s bilateral relations with the Russian Federation are informed by political, economic, social, defence and security cooperation and all the relevant legal instruments and mechanisms that affirm the strategic relationship between the two countries.
Efforts are being made to strengthen economic relations through structures such as the Intergovernmental Committee on Trade and Economic Cooperation (ITEC).The Deputy Ministers reviewed the progress of work of the 17th ITEC since its last meeting in March 2023, which includes a number of government departments from the economic cluster.
Belarus
South Africa and Belarus commemorated 30 years of diplomatic relations in March 2023. The purpose of Deputy Minister Botes’ visit was to conduct the Fourth Round of Political Consultations. The Political Consultations were guided by the Protocol on Cooperation between the two countries signed in 2000.
In addition to the Fourth Round of Political Consultations, Deputy Minister Botes paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus, Sergei Aleinik.
The Deputy Minister also met with the Director-General of the National Centre for Marketing and Price Study of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; the Belarussian Chamber of Commerce; and paid a visit to Minsk Tractor Works, to strengthen the economic and people-to-people relations that exist between the two countries.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za |
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| MINISTER ANGIE MOTSHEKGA JOINS PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA IN 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF AFRICAN PEER REVIEW MECHANISM CELEBRATIONS ON 12 DECEMBER 2023 |
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| The Presidency and the Public Service Ministry launched the APRM Second Generation Country Review Report. |
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The Acting Minister for the Public Service and Administration, Angie Motshekga, joined President Cyril Ramaphosa during the celebrations of the 20th Anniversary of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) celebrations and the official launch of the South Africa: Second-Generation Country Review Report, on 12 December 2023..
The APRM 20th Anniversary Celebrations which took place from 10 to 14 December 2023 was presided over by the President of Sierra Leone and Chairperson of the APRM Forum, HE Julius Maada Bio. |
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On 13 December 2023, the Acting Minister for the Public Service and Administration participated in the 37th Statutory Focal Points Committee Meeting chaired by the Sierra Leone Minister of Public Administration and Political Affairs, Amara Kallon.
The APRM is a voluntary self-assessment tool that promotes good governance and socio-economic development in African countries. The South Africa: Second-Generation Country Review Report gives insights into the progress made by South Africa in various areas, highlighting its successes and identifying areas for improvement as per its recommendations.
The review process involves an in-depth analysis of a country's policies, institutions and practices and is conducted by a team of African experts. The mechanism promotes transparency, accountability and the sharing of best practices among African Member States, covering the following thematic areas:
- Democratic and Political Governance
- Economic Management and Governance
- Corporate Governance
- Socio-economic Development
- State Resilience.
Established by the African Union in 2003, the APRM is hosting a series of activities ahead of the 20th anniversary celebration, including the launch of the South Africa Country Review Report.
– Source: www.gov.za |
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| SA TO CELEBRATE UNIVERSAL HEALTH COVERAGE DAY |
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| On Tuesday, 12 December, South Africa joined the global community in celebrating the progress made towards health for all. |
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According to the Department of Health, government observed the day by raising awareness of the necessity for resilient, equitable and robust healthcare systems to achieve the Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
The Department of Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO) South Africa and other health sector stakeholders, hosted a seminar to reinvigorate pledges to accelerate UHC efforts in South Africa.
The 2023 UHC Day theme was Health for All: Time to Act.
“The theme emphasises the need for immediate and tangible steps to accelerate progress towards UHC, ahead of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030 deadline.” |
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The seminar was attended by 300 delegates from different stakeholders in the health sector and the Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, delivered a keynote address.
The event comes after the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) adopted the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill on 6 December 2023, a turning point for the country’s journey to achieve equal access to quality and affordable health care for all.
‒ Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORT HOSTS INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION DAY IN BHISHO |
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| Bulembu Airport in the Eastern Cape became an air show spectacle and excitement of aviation festivities when it hosted this year’s International Civil Aviation Day (ICAD) celebrations on Saturday, 9 December 2023. |
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This event was led by the Department of Transport in conjunction with the Eastern Cape Government, the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality and the Amathole District Municipality. It was supported by aviation entities, the South African Civil Aviation Authority, Airports Company South Africa, Air Traffic and Navigation Services, as well as the Transport Education and Training Authority.
The aerodrome is situated in the Bulembu Village just outside of Bhisho, where the Minister of Transport, Ms. Sindisiwe Chikunga delivered a keynote address supported by the aviation sector leaders for the event.
International Civil Aviation Day is celebrated worldwide, with the objective to promote global connectivity and raise awareness of the importance of local and international air travel to a country's socio-economic development.
Under the global theme of Advancing Innovation for Global Aviation Development, the United Nations General Assembly officially recognised the seventh of December as a day for ICAD celebrations globally in 1994. As a signatory state to International Civil Aviation Organisation, South Africa has been observing ICAD annually since that day.
“We are ecstatic to be taking ICAD celebrations to the Eastern Cape for the second time and to Bhisho as the capital city of the province. We would like this event to be a catalyst to further enhance transformation of the aviation sector in South Africa,” said Advocate James Mlawu, the Director-General in the Department of Transport.
“More importantly for us as the department, along with our aviation agencies responsible for civil aviation, this event creates awareness for young learners who have an opportunity to gain more knowledge on the sector and to have first-hand experience of aviation when they spend the day with us on Saturday” added the Director-General.
‒ Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HOSTS BRICS TB RESEARCH NETWORK INNOVATION SUMMIT |
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| South Africa to host BRICS Tuberculosis (TB) Research Network Innovation Summit from 11 to 14 December 2023. |
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The Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) TB Research Network Innovation Summit, which brought together scientists and senior officials from BRICS member states to facilitate collaborative scientific research that focusses on innovations in TB diagnostics, vaccines, therapeutics and drugs and health systems strengthening and service delivery.
Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, delivered the keynote address on the opening day of the four-day Summit in Durban and was accompanied by dignitaries including the World Health Organisation Country Director, Dr Owen Kaluwa; the Director-General; and officials from the Department of Health and scientists working on TB research within South Africa.
Each member state sent a delegation of 20 people consisting of scientists, TB researchers and senior health TB programme officials.
This Research Network was established by the Ministries of Health of BRICS countries in 2017 in response to the burden of TB among the BRICS countries which accounts for 40% of the TB burden in the world. The theme for this Summit is BRICS Innovations for Ending TB.
– Source: www.gov.za |
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| SAVE A FISHIE CELEBRATES THE CLEAN UP THAT SECURED A WORLD RECORD |
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| Save a Fishie has made South Africa super proud by breaking the world record for the longest beach clean-up ever. |
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On Saturday, 9 December 2023, Zoë Prinsloo and her labour of love, eco-service, Save a Fishie, gave South Africa and the planet a clean-up for the books.
The 21-year-old Capetonian (who has already achieved many accolades for her commitment to clean-ups and care for the planet) has just added another huge one to her tally – a world record.
After 27 hours of an ongoing clean-up on Milnerton Beach and Lagoon, the final bags of trash cued a big round of applause from all those who joined the tremendous effort, signalling the success of the world record smash.
It is now officially the world’s longest beach clean-up in history.
Knowing that this all happened on a South African coastline and spearheaded by a young local, made many Save a Fishie supporters and South Africans alike reaffirm their belief in what the younger generation will achieve. With a future plagued by environmental concerns and all the socio-economic related consequences, moments of hope from helpers like Save a Fishie and all the other eco-champions we know remind us that the bleak picture of the future is not set in stone.
Some 663 kilograms of waste acted as a trophy of more than just environmental accomplishment, but a win for collective responsibility. It was the end of a day of hard work, but the beginning of a new chapter that all of us can be inspired by.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| WITS’ RESEARCH MAKES THE “TOP 30” LIST IN RENOWNED PUBLICATION |
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| A research team from the University of Witwatersrand (Wits) is relishing in the spotlight after their work with light was selected for an internationally acclaimed Top 30 Advances list. |
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Researchers from Wits University are relishing in a global achievement after having made the Top 30 Advances list in a renowned publication for their work revolving light.
No strangers to headlines, the “structured light team” has done it again, this time for their spotlight in Optica’s (formerly the Optical Society of America) Optics & Photonics News magazine.
Their impressive work focussed on a new approach to studying complex light in complex systems, including transporting classical and quantum light through underwater channels, living tissue and optical fibre, among others.
The team was able to show that light in special forms emerges undistorted in certain scenarios, while other forms of light become unrecognisable.
“We have always maintained the “patterns of light” are the answer to communicating fast and securely; now we know how to select patterns that pass through highly distorting media as if the media was distortion-free,” says Professor Andrew Forbes from the Wits School of Physics.
Their spot in Optica’s Top 30 list has been dubbed a major international advance – so much so that it was also selected as the cover image for the magazine’s announcement in the December issue.
More than just an achievement in the scientific community, their work also opens the doors to future advances.
“Maintaining the integrity of structured light in complex media will pave the way to future work in imaging and communicating through noisy channels, particularly relevant when the structured forms of light are fragile quantum states,” Prof Forbes concluded.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| “BRIDGE TO THE FUTURE”: FORD CELEBRATES 100 YEARS IN SOUTH AFRICA AS IT LAUNCHES SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATHEMATICS (STEM)-RELATED YOUTH PROJECTS |
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| Bold investment and diverse product announcements notwithstanding, Ford South Africa's centenary event helped echo the inspiring work in education and community upliftment. |
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This includes launching three significant youth education and empowerment projects totalling R85 million to benefit young people and accelerate their careers.
Bringing this vision to a tangible reality, the Ford Motor Company Fund, in partnership with logistics company, Maersk and non-profit organisation, Gift of the Givers, is converting one hundred shipping containers into modern maths and science labs. |
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These will serve disadvantaged communities where thousands of learners would finally have access to teaching tools and materials necessary to compete in this fast-paced and evolving world.
In addition to this, and in conjunction with the Nelson Mandela Foundation, 100 Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres will replace many of the dilapidated nursery schools.
These new buildings will include two classrooms, a kitchen and a sick bay area to create healthier academic environments for young students to thrive in.
The other benefit of establishing formal ECD centres in selected areas that comply with regulations is that parents and other beneficiaries can obtain financial support from the government.
The Ford Fund isn't stopping there – its latest initiative will award 100 scholarships to highly motivated young South Africans from impoverished communities enrolled in technical high schools and technical and vocational colleges.
Keeping within Ford's DNA, the focus will be on STEM-related careers, including the mechatronics, autotronics, millwright and electrical trade fields, and from there, doors into Ford's apprenticeship programme will be opened, should they wish.
"As Ford celebrates its 100-year heritage with employees, dealers and communities, we aspire to give people in South Africa a bridge to the future and a promise of a better world," said Mary Culler, President of the Ford Fund.
"We are thrilled to launch these youth education projects that will have a positive and lasting impact by enriching the lives of thousands of students of all ages in South Africa for many years to come. Creating a better world by improving the environment, being of service to the community and providing mobility for all is at the heart of who we are as a company," Culler said.
– Source: www.news24.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN RESTORATION PROJECT LANDS FUNDING FROM EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION |
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| Wild Restoration was recently awarded funding by the European Outdoor Conservation Association to further its efforts in restoring the Greyton area back to the indigenous biome it should be. |
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In early November, Wild Restoration, a non-profit organisation focussed on alien clearing, rewilding and biodiversity restoration, was selected by the European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA) for project funding.
The EOCA is a charity based in Europe that helps an entire industry with the opportunity to work together, making a difference in threatened wild places, species and habitats, multiplying the effect and positive impact on nature. Funded projects tackle the loss of biodiversity and mitigate against climate change, while also having a link to the outdoor enthusiast, being beneficial to local communities and leaving a lasting, positive legacy. |
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Wild Restoration works in Greyton, an area in the Western Cape that is known as the Overberg. It is a rich and diverse landscape. The team works to clear alien vegetation, rewild spaces, restore biodiversity and create a space that encourages the love for the outdoors.
Wild Restoration has two projects currently running: one focussing on the mountain and one on the sandpit.
The mountain project is seeing the removal of 100 000 pine trees to make way for the indigenous Fynbos that should be growing there.
In the sandpit project, they are restoring the area which is home to endangered species that are overgrown by invasive plants.
These vital projects are changing the Greyton area for the better, however, the operations cost a great deal to run. While volunteers are always at hand to help, specialised equipment and other costs need to be covered. The Wild Restoration team applied for funding through the EOCA and after several rounds of voting, were named winners in the Wild Places Category.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| DESIREE ELLIS, PERCY TAU, MAMELODI SUNDOWNS LADIES SHINE AT CONFEDERATION OF AFRICAN FOOTBALL (CAF) AWARDS |
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| Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis was crowned Women's Coach of the Year, while Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies won African Women’s Club of the Year at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) awards ceremony in Marrakesh, Morocco. |
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Ellis won the award for a fourth time after steering Banyana Banyana to the Round of 16 of the Fifa Women’s World Cup for the first time in their history.
Ellis, who also previously won the award in 2018, 2019 and 2022 paid tribute to Sundowns Ladies’ coach, Jerry Tshabalala, who was also nominated for the Women’s Coach of the Year award.
Tshabalala guided the Sundowns Ladies team to their second CAF Champions League title a few weeks ago.
"I'd like to acknowledge coach Jerry. He does fantastic work in South Africa and that is why I am standing here," Ellis said during her speech.
"I'd also like to acknowledge all the other coaches that work in women's football. This is for all of you.
For all the administrators that work in women's football, but most importantly for the Banyana players because they make us look good.
Women's football on the continent is rising," Ellis concluded before smiling and walking off.
– Source: www.iol.co.za |
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| HENDRICKS AND MARKRAM STEER PROTEAS TO RAIN-AFFECTED T20 WIN AGAINST INDIA |
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| The Proteas put on a clinical display of batting to claim a five-wicket Duckworth Lewis Stern (DLS)-method victory in the second T20 International against India at St George’s Park in Gqeberha on Tuesday evening, 12 December 2023. |
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Reeza Hendricks hit 49 runs from 27 balls while skipper Aiden Markram added 30 from 17 balls as the Proteas finished with seven balls to spare and took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series heading into the final encounter at the Wanderers in Johannesburg on Thursday, 14 December 2023.
Earlier, half-centuries by Indian captain, Suryakumar Yadav, and Rinku Singh helped them to 180 for seven from 19.3 overs before rain brought a premature end to their innings.
Chasing a revised target of 152 for victory from 15 overs, the hosts' opening pair of Hendricks and Matthew Breetzke raced to 41 in the third over.
In the Indian innings, Gerald Coetzee claimed three wickets, two of which fell in the final over.
South Africa put India in to bat and Marco Jansen struck with the third ball off the opening over to send Yashasvi Jaiswal back to the dugout for a duck, caught by Miller.
Coetzee finished with 3/32 from 3.3 overs while Shamsi was economical to finish with 1/18 from his four overs as Jansen, Markram and Williams took a wicket apiece.
– Source: www.timeslive.co.za
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| KURT-LEE ARENDSE SPURS BULLS TO VICTORY OVER SARACENS |
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| The Bulls may have missed out on a bonus point, but Springbok star Kurt-Lee Arendse provided some sizzling touches to spark the 27-16 Champions Cup victory over Saracens at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday night, 9 December 2023. |
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England’s Billy Vunipola received a red card in the 52nd minute for a dangerous ruck clean-out on Cameron Hanekom, which should have seen the Bulls claim a four-try bonus point.
Instead, it was the visitors who fought back in the final quarter to produce two touchdowns of their own and some respectability to the scoreboard. |
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The Bulls, though, came flying out of the blocks, grabbing their first touchdown via inside centre, David Kriel, in the third minute following a superb Canan Moodie line-break.
Moodie, Arendse and fullback Willie le Roux combined brilliantly to launch several outstanding counter-attacks from Saracens kicks.
Points-Scorers
Bulls 27 – Tries: David Kriel, Janko Swanepoel, Canan Moodie. Conversions: Johan Goosen (3). Penalties: Goosen (2).
Saracens 16 – Tries: Elliot Daly, Theo McFarland. Penalties: Owen Farrell (2).
– Source: www.iol.co.za |
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| AYANDA HLUBI AND LAURA WOLVAARDT SHINE AS PROTEAS SQUARE SERIES WITH BANGLADESH |
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| Debutant and Player of the Match, Ayanda Hlubi, as well as captain Laura Wolvaardt played leading roles with bat and ball as the Proteas Women secured an emphatic eight-wicket triumph against Bangladesh in the third and final T20 International (T20I) to tie the series 1-1 in Kimberley on Friday, 9 December 2023. |
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Hlubi produced impressive figures of 2/15 to help the home side restrict Bangladesh to 94/6 despite a contribution from Latal Mondal (42 off 62 balls; 2 fours) before Wolvaardt scored an unbeaten 49 off 49 deliveries, including five fours to steer South Africa to 95/2 to seal the win with 4.4 overs to spare.
After winning the toss and electing to bowl first, South Africa made a fantastic start to the encounter as 19-year-old Hlubi struck twice in two balls in her first over of international cricket, removing Murshida Khatun (2) and Sobhana Mostary (0), caught behind and at slip respectively.
The Proteas then capitalised on the momentum to see Masabata Klaas (2/23) pick up the hosts’ third scalp of the day as Shamima Sultana (8) was caught in the deep to leave the visitors reeling on 17/3 in the sixth over.
In the chase, the Proteas Women made a positive start in the middle as Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits (17) partnered up for 35 runs for the opening wicket before the latter fell in the fifth over. Bangladesh struck again soon after as Anneke Bosch (9) was sent back to the dugout to leave South Africa 52/2 after eight overs.
Bosch’s wicket was the last to fall for the host nation as Wolvaardt alongside Suné Luus (15*) showed their experience and maturity to see the innings through with an undefeated 43-run stand to help South Africa level the three-match series in the 15th over.
The white ball tour continues in the One-Day series from 16 to 23 December 2023 as part of the ICC Women’s Championship 2024/2025 qualification.
– Source: www.iol.co.za |
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| “THIS IS A TOURNAMENT I REALLY WANTED” - LOUIS OOSTHUIZEN AFTER ALFRED DUNHILL CHAMPIONSHIP VICTORY |
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| South Africa’s Louis Oosthuizen held on to claim a two-stroke victory ahead of countryman Charl Schwartzel, in the Alfred Dunhill Championship at Leopard Creek Golf Club, on Monday, 11 December 2023. |
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Oosthuizen closed with a three-under 69 to end on 18-under for the Dubai Port World Tour and Sunshine Tour co-sanctioned event, while Schwartzel signed for a one-under 71 and a 16-under total.
Although the margin of victory was two, it came down to a nervy finish on the 72nd hole where Oosthuizen hit his tee shot into a water hazard right of the fairway. |
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From there Oosthuizen layed up with his third shot. Meanwhile, playing partner Schwartzel, who was behind, went for the par five putting surface in two and was lucky to avoid the greenside water hazard left of the green.
It meant the odds of Schwartzel getting up and down for birdie and Oosthuizen making bogey were good. However, Schwartzel hit an average chip to 15 feet while Oosthuizen was left with a 30-footer for par and victory outright.
The 2010 Open Champion then made no mistake as he poured in the putt from long range to close the door on his rival and fellow LIV Golf teammate. Schwartzel then missed his birdie attempt to keep the two-shot margin intact.
“This is a tournament I really, really wanted,” said Oosthuizen afterwards.
Completing the final group was Christiaan Bezuidenhout in solo third on 14-under after a final round four-under 68.
– Source: www.iol.co.za |
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