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| PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA WISHES MUSLIM COMMUNITIES AROUND SOUTH AFRICA A BLESSED EID UL FITR |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa wishes Muslim communities around South Africa a blessed Eid ul Fitr today, Thursday, 11 April 2024. |
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The President said: “The Holy Month of Ramadan encompasses spirituality, personal introspection and good deeds that contribute to the well-being of Muslims and people other faiths alike.
“At a time when there is so much wrong with the world, at a time when human suffering, hardship and injustice is laid bare, the spirit of Ramadan inspires us all.
“May today be a joyous celebration that will sustain the faithful for another year of devotion and social upliftment.”
– Source: www.gov.za |
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| “WE OWE IT TO” VICTIMS OF GENOCIDE TO SPEAK UP ON GAZA - PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa cannot stand idly by as “another genocide is carried out” in the Gaza Strip. |
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The President was addressing the nation through his weekly newsletter following his visit to Rwanda on the occasion of the commemoration of the Rwandan genocide.
“At the numerous Rwandan genocide 30th commemoration memorials, one finds the words ‘Never Again’. This phrase, ‘Never Again’, also appears on memorials to the Nazi holocaust and is evoked as a reminder to the world of the horrors perpetrated by humankind and of the collective responsibility we share to ensure that this dark history does not repeat itself. |
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“It is because of our stated commitment to never again allow atrocities of this kind, that the world cannot stand idly by as another genocide is carried out, this time against the people of Palestine in the besieged Gaza Strip. Nobody can claim ignorance about what is happening in Gaza, because, unlike in Rwanda in 1994, these atrocities are being televised, written about, tweeted and live streamed,” the President said on Monday, 8 April 2024.
Up to now, the Israel-Palestine conflict has reportedly claimed some 32 000 Gazan lives with 13 000 of those being the lives of children.
President Ramaphosa condemned the “campaign of violence” Israel has “unleashed” on Gaza since Hamas attacked that nation.
He reflected on South Africa’s approach to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Israel’s actions in Gaza and noted the urgency needed to get aid into the embattled area.
“The court directed Israel, among other things, to ensure that its military does not commit such acts, to prevent and punish the direct and public incitement to commit genocide, and to enable the provision of urgently needed basic service and humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza.
“In clear defiance of this legally-binding order, Israel has intensified its violence against the residents of Gaza. These people are now also facing starvation and famine as the delivery of aid continues to be disrupted, including the killing of humanitarian and aid-workers.
“Last week, the ICJ issued additional measures, ordering Israel to take the necessary and effective measures to ensure ‘unhindered provision at scale’ of basic services and humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza. The court accepted South Africa’s argument that, contrary to what Israel claimed, the United Nations agencies are not being assisted to get aid flowing into Gaza,” he said.
Remembering Rwanda
Harking back to the Rwandan genocide, which left an estimated one million people dead, President Ramaphosa lamented that atrocities committed at the time were “allowed to happen in the face of callous indifference by the international community”.
“It was only several decades later that a number of these ‘bystanders to the genocide’ apologised for failing to act as the killings happened. As they were for the families of those who perished in the Rwandan genocide, for today’s genocide victims, apologies are too little, too late.
“It should never be, and must never be, that atrocities, gross human rights violations and genocide should somehow carry less weight because of the race, ethnicity or religious affiliation of the victims.
“We owe it to the victims of all the world’s genocides to not betray their memories by looking away, by failing to act, or worst of all, by claiming we didn’t know,” he said.
The President said South Africa’s own democracy and freedom was not won easily.
“The terrible events in Rwanda in 1994 took place in the year we as South Africans attained our freedom.
“We are ever mindful that with that freedom comes a responsibility to work for peace, justice and human rights everywhere. It is a duty and a standard we will continuously strive to uphold, not just for ourselves but for all peoples, everywhere,” President Ramaphosa said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA OFFERS CONDOLENCES ON MOZAMBIQUE BOATING DISASTER |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa offered his deep condolences to the Government and people of the Republic of Mozambique following a disaster at sea in which nearly 100 people have perished. |
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At least 97 people reportedly died and a small number of people were rescued in the incident which took place near Lunga in Nampula Province Mozambique on Sunday, 7 April 2024.
On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, President Ramaphosa offered his condolences to President Filipe Nyusi and the Government and people of Mozambique and especially families who have lost relatives.
President Ramaphosa said: “As neighbours, we are deeply saddened by this tragedy and we wish authorities and citizens well in the recovery effort and the search for missing persons.
“We also pray for a speedy recovery for survivors of this incident.”
– Source: www.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA IN RWANDA |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa was in Kigali, Rwanda, to attend the 30th commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. |
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This year, Rwanda marks 30 years since the genocide against the Tutsi, which began on 7 April 1994 and lasted for 100 days, leading to more than a million deaths of mainly ethnic Tutsis.
Every year, on this date, the Government of Rwanda hosts an official ceremony to mark the beginning of the 100 days of commemoration.
The ceremony of remembrance took place in Kigali on Sunday, 7 April 2024.
President Ramaphosa participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, followed by the National Commemoration ceremony, which concluded with a night vigil at the BK Arena in Kigali.
On arrival in Kigali on Saturday, 6 April 2024, President Ramaphosa had a bilateral meeting with President Paul Kagame.
Bilateral relations between South Africa and Rwanda were established in 1995, which were further strengthened through the signing of a General Cooperation Agreement in 1999.
Since the inauguration of the Joint Cooperation Commission in Pretoria on 22 June 2001, significant progress was recorded in areas such as institution and capacity building, health and education. South African companies have also invested in Rwanda.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA TO RECEIVE LETTERS OF CREDENCE |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa received Letters of Credence on Tuesday, 9 April 2024 from heads of mission-designate at a Credentials Ceremony held in Pretoria. |
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Letters of Credence are official diplomatic documents presented to the President by heads of mission-designate, who have been nominated by their respective governments to serve as ambassadors to South Africa.
President Ramaphosa received the heads of mission-designate from the following countries:
- The Republic of Rwanda
- The Swiss Confederation
- The Federation of Malaysia
- The Republic of Italy
- Mongolia
- The United Republic of Tanzania
- The State of Kuwait
- The Republic of Belarus
- The Dominican Republic
- The Republic of Korea
- The Republic of Kenya
- New Zealand
- The Islamic Republic of Iran
- The Republic of Suriname
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA PAYS TRIBUTE TO LATE EDITOR AND AUTHOR MR TONY HEARD |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa said South Africa had lost a champion of human rights, non-racialism and the role of the media in reflecting and shaping society with the recent passing of former “Cape Times” Editor, Mr Tony Heard. |
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Mr Heard passed away on 27 March 2024 at the age of 86, following a short illness.
President Ramaphosa offered his deep condolences to Mr Heard’s partner, Ms Jane Porter, his children Vicki, Janet, Pasqua and Dylan and their partners, and all members of the extended family.
Mr Heard was a distinguished journalist who had a long association with the Cape Times newspaper, from his debut as a junior reporter to his appointment as Editor in 1979. |
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Among his many distinctions, Tony Heard was awarded, in 1985, the Pringle Award by the South African Society of Journalists and the Golden Pen of Freedom Award by the World Association of Newspapers for his publication of a discreetly planned and courageous interview with the then-banned African National Congress leader Oliver Tambo.
The interview led to Tony Heard’s arrest by security police for his alleged contravention of the Internal Security Act. While the state pursued a case against him, he was ultimately presented with a small fine.
Mr Heard was a media consultant to the Rector of the University of the Western Cape, the late Professor Jakes Gerwel, during South Africa’s political transition and under the presidency of Nelson Mandela. He was also a special adviser to Kader Asmal, who served as Minister of Water Affairs and Forestry and Minister of Education.
He also served as special adviser in The Presidency until January 2010.
President Ramaphosa said: “Tony Heard was brave in his resistance to apartheid and was an influential thought leader who challenged the conscience and beliefs of South Africans who benefited from apartheid.
“He deployed significant newsroom resources to expose the brutality of the apartheid state and to portray the everyday suffering of oppressed and impoverished communities.
“In so doing, he mobilised and nurtured a generation of journalists who took a clear stand on critical issues in the country and scurried between typewriters and teargas to give a voice to those whose pleas and outcries were muzzled and repressed by the state.
“He inspired quality journalism which enriched the profession and media audiences alike and contributed to the inevitable momentum that led to our freedom. We value the contributions he made as well as a senior advisor to government in his later years.
“May his soul rest in peace.”
– Source: www.gov.za |
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| APRIL MARKS MAJOR MILESTONE IN SOUTH AFRICA |
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| Deputy President Paul Mashatile says the month of April is a very important month in the country's calendar because it marks Freedom Month, as well as an incredible milestone of 30 years of democracy. |
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“This month offers us an opportunity to reflect on the progress made thus far in transforming our society, while also examining our challenges,” Deputy President Mashatile said.
Addressing the Muslim Judicial Council Iftar Dinner in Rylands in Cape Town on Friday, 5 April 2024, Deputy President Mashatile said although government has made great strides since 1994, inequality, poverty and unemployment remain major obstacles to South Africa's national unity and social cohesion.
“We should be in one accord in addressing the remaining challenges that threaten our society's social fabric,” the Deputy President said.
He said that South Africans should unite as they did when they fought apartheid and when political leaders stray from their objectives, religious leaders should steer them in the right direction to make the country better.
He commended the role played by the Muslim community in building the country.
“Muslims have played an important role in shaping South Africa's history, a role that has continued to this day.
“They fought selflessly for the freedom we have today. Let us reciprocate our forefathers' selflessness with kindness and humility and replicate their spirit of fighting for the good of others.
“Let us do good deeds to improve one another’s health and wellbeing. Let us do good to provide shelter and a meal to the homeless. Let us do good by keeping young people out of the streets and providing them with quality education,” Deputy President Mashatile said.
He further commended the leadership of the Muslim Judicial Council for their dedication to education in the community by offering excellent education in their schools.
“By prioritising skills development, you empower people and provide them the opportunity to make important contributions to our country.
“Furthermore, by promoting social cohesion, you lay the groundwork for a society in which mutual respect and understanding serve as the foundation for all relationships,” the Deputy President said.
The Deputy President urged all other religious communities to engage in charitable work and community service, benefitting not only their members but society as a whole.
“We must unite as a society to help the less fortunate, support those in need and foster a culture of compassion and generosity.
“These acts of service promote inclusion and caring communities. Through such religious communities, we are also able to instil moral values such as forgiveness and respect for others, therefore strengthening our moral compass.
“We urge the Muslim community to continue to advocate for social justice and human rights and to lead movements for equality, dignity, and freedom, empowering people to speak out against injustices and fight towards a more equitable world order,” Deputy President Mashatile said.
He encouraged every South African to actively participate in acts of kindness, volunteer their time and resources towards uplifting communities and promoting social cohesion.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA WELCOMES RESOLUTION ON HUMAN RIGHTS SITUATION IN OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY |
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| South Africa has welcomed the adoption of a United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) resolution regarding the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem. |
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According to reports, the resolution covers the rights of the child and inclusive social protection; the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination; human rights in the occupied Syrian Golan; and Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and the occupied Syrian Golan.
The resolution called for ensuring accountability and justice. It was passed with 28 of the council’s 47 member states voting in favour, 13 abstentions, and six against.
The countries that abstained from voting on the resolution were Albania, Benin, Cameroon, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, France, Georgia, India, Japan, Lithuania, Montenegro, the Netherlands and Romania. |
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The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has since described the move as “historic”.
“This is the very first time that the UNHRC has taken action on the unprecedented human tragedy taking place in Gaza, where at least 32 975 Palestinians have been killed, including more than 14 500 children, since Israel launched its onslaught over 180 days ago,” the statement read on Monday, 8 April 2024.
In calling for accountability and justice, the department said the resolution emphasises the need to ensure that all those responsible for violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law are held to account.
It also highlights the need to ensure the provision of an effective remedy for all victims and the need to pursue practical steps to prevent future violations and international crimes.
The department stated that the resolution acknowledges the significance of the order issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding provisional measures in the case brought by South Africa against Israel concerning the application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.
South Africa, the department said, believes that it is only through ensuring accountability and justice that the impunity accorded to Israel that has entrenched the ongoing unlawful occupation can finally be brought to an end.
“It, therefore, remains crucial that Israel respects and implements the ICJ’s orders, together with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2728 (2024) demanding an immediate and lasting ceasefire, which Resolution A/HRC/L.30 will no doubt contribute to its securing.”
During the debate on the resolution, South Africa’s Permanent Representative, Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi, stated: “The international community can no longer choose to apply a parallel system of international law to Israel, nor can we be complicit in facilitating its actions. For international law to be credible, it must be uniformly applied and serve the victims designed to protect.”
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| THE MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION, DR NALEDI PANDOR CONGRATULATES PROFESSOR ZUKISWA ZINGELA ON HER RE-ELECTION TO THE INCB BY THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COUNCIL (ECOSOC), ON 9 APRIL 2024, IN NEW YORK |
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| Professor Zukiswa Zingela was re-elected to the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) in a highly competitive election, via the category of member states which had 25 candidates contesting five seats. |
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The INCB is an independent, quasi-judicial expert body tasked with assisting member states to comply with their obligations in terms of the three international drug control conventions, to ensure that adequate supplies of drugs are available for medical and scientific purposes while preventing their diversion into the illicit market
The South African Government endorsed the nomination and re-election of Professor Zingela to the INCB for a five-year term, from 2025 to 2030. Prof. Zingela has been a member of the INCB since 2020 through her nomination by the World Health Organisation for a five-year term which ends in 2025. She is the Second Vice-President of the INCB and Chair of the Standing Committee on Estimates. She was appointed as the board’s First Vice-President in 2022, Vice-Chair in 2021 and a member of the Standing Committee on Estimates in 2020. She chaired the Working Group on Availability from 2021 until 2023. |
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Prof. Zingela is the Executive Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences at Nelson Mandela University and the previous Head of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital and Walter Sisulu University. She is a member of the Medical and Dental Board of the Health Professions Council of South Africa. She is a registered specialist psychiatrist with more than two decades of experience in the profession and a strong history of teaching, research and mentorship as well as research and leadership in the area of substance use and addictions in psychiatry.
Prof. Zingela holds an MBChb from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, an MMed Psych from the University of Pretoria, a FCPsych from the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa and a PhD Psychology from Nelson Mandela University. Her areas of interest and research publications include substance misuse, catatonia, traditional medicine and mental health, substance misuse and first episode psychosis, healthcare worker mental health, occupational mental health and public mental health.
Prof. Zingela’s re-election, taking into consideration her wealth of experience, including as the Second Vice-President of the INCB and her academic accolades will further enhance the work of the INCB to carry out its mandate to support governments to meet their commitments of ensuring the availability of controlled substances for medical and scientific purposes while preventing their diversion, including ensuring the functioning of the international system for licit trade in controlled substances.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za |
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| 30 YEARS OF FREEDOM BELONGS TO ALL OF US |
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| Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa says the achievement of 30 years of freedom in South Africa belongs to each and every South African. |
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The Minister was speaking during the National Dialogue on 30 Years of Democracy held at Freedom Park on Tuesday evening, 9 April 2024.
The celebration commemorates the eclipsing of the separatist agenda driven by the apartheid government and the ushering in of democracy and unity in the country.
Minister Kodwa said democracy does not belong to any government or political party, but the entire population.
“Thirty years must be a celebration not of government, not of a governing party, but of all South Africans because it is South Africans who brought about this freedom. A South African who is in the villages, who is in town, who is in urban areas must feel part of the 30 years and must be given a voice,” he said. |
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The Minister said the dialogue is the beginning of a series of debates that will be held in the country to stimulate conversation around not only democracy but also what defines a nation.
“One notion that we must always remind ourselves of, is the notion of a nation. It’s only in our Constitution of 1996, which calls upon us to build a nation of all South Africans and the idea of a nation had never existed before.
“There are significant moments that define a nation, from a sports, arts and culture perspective … we have seen what our national teams have done recently. We must celebrate significant moments that define us as a nation, one of which is the national flag.
“We are united around the flag. We are united around the national anthem. These are the important milestones that define this notion of a nation,” he said.
Turning to the upcoming National and Provincial elections, the Minister emphasised the importance of the right to vote and the responsibility it bears.
“A right to vote is not just enough. It’s important that you must understand the manifesto of a party because any party and leader that wins any election must give expression to the Constitution.
“Failure to give expression to the Constitution will result in issues… [of] people protesting, people just electing leaders on the basis of emotions, people electing leaders on the basis of populism and rhetoric. But it’s important that people must elect leaders who give expression to the Constitution, which states 'building a non-racial South Africa, which is united and all peoples belong to it'.
“People deciding not to vote must never be an option because an option to vote is a right that was denied for many years. I call upon all South Africans to exercise their right to vote and elect people that will give expression to the will and aspirations of the community,” he said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| INTERNATIONAL MESSAGES OF SUPPORT ON LAUNCH OF FREEDOM MONTH |
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| Several international nations have joined a chorus of voices in commemorating and congratulating South Africa as the country celebrates 30 years of freedom this year. |
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The launch of Freedom Month was held at Freedom Park on Tuesday morning, 9 April 2024, in Pretoria with much fanfare, including the unveiling of the 30 Years of Freedom logo.
Delivering her message of support during the programme, High Commissioner of Zambia to South Africa, Mazuba Bernadine Monze, encouraged South Africans to remember and speak of the historical ties that the two countries share.
During the fight for liberation, Zambia was a sanctuary for safety for anti-apartheid freedom fighters, including Oliver Tambo and former President Thabo Mbeki.
“This celebration is truly Zambia’s celebration. I bring a message that is succinct and clear to the people of South Africa [that] across the Limpopo lies a land that has and will continue to stand firm in solidarity and brotherhood, and that land is called Zambia. To those of you who know the story, share it. Tell it to the generations and even those that are yet to come about our deep historical ties that bind us together as countries.
“The role of Zambia in South Africa’s liberation struggle… during the dark period of apartheid in South Africa, emerged as a beacon of hope and a steadfast supporter of the liberation struggle. Please allow me to congratulate [South Africa] on this auspicious occasion and wish the people of this great nation a happy 30th anniversary of your freedom,” High Commissioner Monze said.
Ambassador Enrique Orta González of Cuba praised South Africa as a “symbol of solidarity and the struggle justice” for the downtrodden people of the world.
The nation of Cuba contributed to the fight against apartheid by offering training, medical care and study for struggle heroes in the 1960s.
“Today, on the eve of the 30 years of democracy in this beautiful country, we can affirm that South Africa has become a symbol of solidarity and struggle for justice. We are glad to see today an apartheid-free, independent, sovereign South Africa in solidarity with the people fighting for the just causes of the world – supporting Palestine, Western Sahara, Venezuela and Cuba.
“Three decades after the defeat of apartheid, South Africa has risen as an example of the global South on how a society can leave hate and discrimination behind in order to be a better country, in order to become a true symbol of reconciliation, and give voice to those who stay in silence for many years.
“Let me take this opportunity to congratulate the South African Government and people on the 30th anniversary of democracy. On behalf of the Government and people of Cuba, our sincerest wish is for prosperity, well-being and happiness for our dear sister, the Republic of South Africa,” Ambassador González said.
The High Commissioner of Lesotho, Ntsime Jafeta, noted that South Africa “defied all odds” by achieving democracy in the face of the brutal apartheid regime.
“On behalf of the Government of the Kingdom of Lesotho, I wish to extend our sincere greetings and best wishes as you celebrate Freedom Month. We note with great joy and satisfaction the fact that this year’s commemoration coincides with the Lesotho bicentennial celebration to mark 200 years since the formation of the Basotho nation by King Moshoeshoe I in 1824.
“Despite your vulnerability and pressure from the apartheid regime, you defied all odds. You stood firmly on the side of freedom, peace and democracy. Let us celebrate the gains brought by the struggles of our forebears and ensure that sweat and blood nourish the tree that will bear the fruits of peace, democracy and justice to make the world a better place,” High Commissioner Jafeta said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| RECRUITMENT PROCESS FOR NEW VICE PRESIDENT OF NDB UNDERWAY |
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| The process of identifying a replacement for Leslie Maasdorp, current Vice President of the New Development Bank (NDB) has started. |
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Cabinet will announce the new Vice President to the NDB after the recruitment process has been completed.
Maasdorp will at the end of his nine years of service at the NDB and will step down in July 2024.
In July 2015, Cabinet appointed Maasdorp as Vice President to represent South Africa at the New Development Bank in Shanghai.
Maasdorp was then appointed by the NDB to the role of Chief Financial Officer and was a member of the founding management team of the institution, under the leadership of Mr KV Kamath, the first NDB President.
At the expiry of his contract in 2021, Maasdorp was reappointed by Cabinet for a second term of three years. |
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“On behalf of my colleagues, I wish to express our sincere gratitude to Mr Maasdorp for the distinction with which he has served South Africa in this role. As CFO, he led the treasury and capital markets activities of the NDB, having established the global and domestic bond programmes for the institution, raising more than US$15 billion during his tenure.
“He also led the process of obtaining the inaugural credit rating of the bank in 2018, which established the institution as a leading new emerging markets focused multilateral development bank. I want to wish him well in his future endeavours,” said Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana.
Maasdorp said it has been a distinct pleasure and honour to serve South Africa over the past nine years as Vice President and CFO of the NDB.
"I wish to thank Minister Godongwana, his predecessors during these nine years, as well as the Cabinet colleagues for having afforded me this incredible opportunity to be part of a historic mission to create a new global financial institution from scratch.
“Over this period, the NDB approved over US$6 billion of loans to South Africa, contributing significantly to the rollout of sustainable infrastructure, including in rail, ports, power, roads and water projects,” said Maasdorp when commenting on his imminent departure in July.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| CHINESE AUTOMOTIVE GIANT LDV ENTERS SOUTH AFRICAN MARKET |
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| Leyland DAF Vehicles (LDV) is entering the South African market. The brand will be headquartered in Sandton, Gauteng, from where it will serve a national network of dealers. A national dealer network is currently being appointed, with construction on the first LDV dealership in Sandton, Gauteng already completed. A national parts distribution warehouse agreement is nearing completion. |
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The LDV brand is well-known among global vehicle enthusiasts. Born in the United Kingdom in 1896, the brand has evolved and changed over a century to become Leyland DAF Vehicles in 1987. It later became known by its acronym, LDV, which has since become its registered brand name.
LDV is best known for its bakkies, SUVs and vans. LDV Automotive Australia sold over 21 000 units last year, with the T60 range of bakkies featuring as a top-seller among entrepreneurs and small businesses.
The modern LDV brand is part of Saic Motor, the largest vehicle manufacturer in China and one of the ten largest vehicle manufacturers in the world. The company sells more than five million vehicles in China alone and it exports to most regions across the globe, including Europe, the United States and Australasia.
Saic is a Fortune 100 global company and the Chinese vehicle partner to General Motors and Volkswagen. It is also the manufacturer of the Chinese brand Roewe and the owner of global brands MG, LDV and Maxus.
In South Africa, the Maxus brand is already well known after entering the market as the electric commercial vehicle brand for Woolworths home delivery services. Many of the commercial vehicles in use under this agreement will soon be available in their internal combustion form from LDV South Africa.
LDV South Africa will open its showroom floors with a model line-up, starting with a selection of T60 double cab bakkies.
With the local testing schedule completed, LDV South Africa will offer a five-year/200,000km factory warranty and a five-year/100,000 km service plan as standard, across the product range of SUVs, vans and bakkies.
LDV South Africa will launch its first range of bakkies in May 2024 and will release detailed information on the complete vehicle range soon.
– Source: www.bizcommunity.com |
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| BOULDERS BEACH IN CAPE TOWN NAMED ONE OF THE BEST BEACHES IN THE WORLD |
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| Boulders Beach in Cape Town has been awarded the honour of being the second-best beach globally by a United Kingdom (UK)-based company specialising in world beaches. |
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BeathAtlas gathered data from 42 experts, including journalists and travel experts. They combined this data with the precision of algorithms to establish the top beaches across the world and award the Golden Beach Award 2024, according to capetownetc.
When asking the question, “What makes a beach one of the best in the world?” many people will answer that it is all about its white sand and blue water. However, BeachAtlas uses the following criteria:
- Classic beauty – the picturesque aspect
- Inclusivity – how welcome visitors feel, regardless of their culture, background, identity, or abilities
- Natural diversity – the ecological richness of the environments
- Party and lifestyle – lively nightlife and beach parties and/or resorts on the beach
- Community – the role in the local community and culture, i.e. not exclusively aimed at tourists
- Cultural significance – historical importance or a strong presence in popular culture, so a cultural reputation that extends beyond natural beauty.
Of the 100 top-rated beaches in the world, Boulders Beach in Cape Town was named second-best after Bora Bora in the South Pacific.
Here is the top 10 list of the best beaches worldwide:
- Bora Bora, French Polynesia
- Boulders Beach, South Africa
- Waikiki Beach, United States of America (USA)
- Copacabana, Brazil
- Maya Bay, Thailand
- Black Sand Beach, Iceland
- Glass Beach, USA
- JBR Beach, United Arab Emirates
- Skeleton Coast, Namibia
- Omaha Beach, Northern France
Boulders Beach is located in False Bay near Simon’s Town. It is a sheltered beach made up of inlets between granite boulders, from which its name originated. It is part of the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area.
The local inhabitants are probably the top attraction – African penguins in their thousands. People flock to Boulders Beach all year round to see the penguins up close. It is one of Cape Town’s most visited beaches.
For those wanting to visit these penguins, summer is when you will see the most penguin action, according to Cape Town Tourism. Between September and October the birds spend much time feeding out at sea, so there are fewer penguins on the beach. If taking photos is your main reason for visiting, the best times are early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Those are the times when the penguins are most active.
– Source: www.sapeople.com |
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| WESTERN CAPE TOURISM SOARS WITH RECORD-BREAKING 200 000+ ARRIVALS |
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| “Tourism in the Western Cape continues to grow and strengthen. I am thrilled to confirm that, according to Statistics South Africa, total international air arrivals to Cape Town International Airport between January and February 2024 surpassed the 200 000 mark and exceeded the 2019 figure of 194 058 for the same period, breaking all previous records in the last five years. And at key attractions in regions across the province, visitor numbers are up 20% year-on-year. This is yet more excellent news for the sector because we know that more tourists means more jobs across the province,” said Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger. |
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This is according to the monthly tourism report for February 2024, compiled by the Western Cape Government’s (WCG) tourism, trade and investment promotion agency, Wesgro.
Other highlights from the report include:
- Two-way passengers through Cape Town International Airport’s (CTIA) international terminal saw a 14% year-on-year growth in February 2024, with 294 443 two-way passengers, maintaining a steady growth rate on the back of a 13% increase recorded in January 2024. (Source: ACSA)
- The domestic terminal recorded a 14% year-on-year growth in February 2024, with over 576 000 two-way passengers passing through the terminal. (Source: ACSA)
- George Airport recorded over 59 000 two-way passengers in February 2024, approaching full recovery when compared to pre-COVID levels. (Source: ACSA)
- In February 2024, 92% of the international air arrivals to Cape Town were from overseas markets (other than Africa) and 8% were from the rest of Africa. (Source: StatsSA)
- Between January and February 2024, the United Kingdom led as the top overseas air market to Cape Town, with Germany a very close second, followed by the United States, the Netherlands and France in the top five positions. (Source: StatsSA)
- Between January and February 2024, Namibia led as the top air market from the rest of Africa to Cape Town, with Zimbabwe following closely in second position. Mozambique, Angola and Kenya followed in the rest of the top five positions. Air arrivals from the rest of Africa to Cape Town during the period January to February 2024 reflected full recovery from seven out of the top 10 Africa source markets to Cape Town vs. January to February 2019. These markets included Zimbabwe (135%), Mozambique (18100%), Kenya (202%), Nigeria (112%), Tanzania (176%), Ghana (304%) and Botswana (1129%). (Source: StatsSA)
- 43 participating attractions across the six regions of the Western Cape recorded a total of 1 703 804 visitors between January and February 2024, a 20% growth in the number of visitors when compared to January – February 2023. (Source: Wesgro)
- The top five participating Western Cape attractions with the highest volume of visitors between January and February 2024 were recorded for: Table Mountain National Park (641 486), Table Mountain Aerial Cableway (227 511), Table Mountain National Park: Cape of Good Hope (199 781), Table Mountain National Park: Boulders (171 754) and Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden (136 422). (Source: Wesgro)
- The top five highest year-on-year growth rates between January and February 2024 were recorded amongst the Western Cape’s nature/outdoor attractions: Stony Point Eco Venue (476%), Grootvadersbosch Eco Venues (386%), De Hoop Nature Reserve (188%), Gamkaberg Nature Reserve (135%) and Kogelberg Nature Reserve (130%). (Source: Wesgro).
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“Data from SA Tourism shows that, for every 100 international visitors to the Western Cape, R2.1 million in direct tourist spend is generated, contributing R500 000 to the provincial gross domestic product, and enabling two local jobs. Which is why the continued excellent performance is such great news for economic growth and job creation in the province and South Africa,” continued Minister Wenger.
“This success has not happened by chance and would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of our local tourism industry, the curiosity and trust of our precious tourists, and the determination of this government, entities and partners. I thank each and every person who continues to work hard to welcome our visitors and to ensure that they keep coming back, helping to grow our provincial economy, and creating many more jobs around the Western Cape,” concluded Minister Wenger.
– Source: www.thenewspaper.co.za |
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| SALDANHA WELCOMES ITS FIRST CRUISE LINER, MARKING A NEW ERA IN TOURISM |
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| In March 2024, the Port of Saldanha, celebrated for being Transnet National Ports Authority’s (TNPA) largest and deepest commercial seaport, witnessed a significant event as it welcomed 227 passengers from the “Silver Cloud”, hailing from Nassau, Bahamas. |
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This event marked a pivotal moment in the port’s history, emphasising its potential to become a vibrant destination for tourism along the West Coast. The Silver Cloud, with its last port of call at Walvis Bay, brings to light the Saldanha port’s readiness to embrace its burgeoning role in the tourism industry.
The Saldanha port community extended a heartfelt welcome to the Silver Cloud and its passengers, underlining the area’s readiness to embrace its burgeoning role in the tourism industry. This inaugural docking is not just a milestone for the port but also a beacon of hope for the regional economy, which is predominantly based on agriculture, forestry and fishing, indicating a move towards diversification and increased regional market share in tourism.
Reflecting on the event’s significance, Saldanha Bay Municipality Executive Mayor Andre Truter, emphasised the positive impact on economic development, stating, “This is a monumental day for our region, as it accentuates the pivotal role of tourism in fostering economic growth and development. We are thrilled to welcome the first cruise vessel, heralding a new era for our community.” |
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Shadrack Tshikalange, the TNPA Port Manager, also expressed his enthusiasm about this new venture for the port. “The successful docking of our first cruise liner signifies the port’s versatility and its potential to contribute significantly to the economic development of the region. It opens up new horizons for Saldanha, showcasing it as an attractive tourism destination on the global stage,” he said.
The Silver Cloud’s visit is more than a historic event; it’s a harbinger of future possibilities, setting the stage for Saldanha Bay to emerge as a key destination in South Africa’s tourism landscape, inviting the world to explore its unique offerings.
– Source: www.thenewspaper.co.za |
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| TRISTAN DU PLESSIS SELECTED AS DECOREX’S DESIGNER OF THE YEAR 2024 |
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| From the 2023 Restaurant and Bar Awards Best Club/Night Venue, Giselle Miami, to the popular Gorgeous George boutique hotel in Cape Town, and the instantly-recognisable and most sustainable restaurant in the world, Fyn, to a penthouse suite designed in collaboration with Grammy Award-winning DJ Black Coffee – Tristan du Plessis’s stylish legacy is on show across the globe, making him one of the most famous creative talents to come out of South Africa. |
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This year, in an exciting addition to Du Plessis’s many accolades, the founder of the eponymous Cape Town and Johannesburg-based interior architecture firm has been selected as Decorex’s Designer of the Year for 2024. An annual recognition from the foremost authority on decor, interior design and lifestyle industries on the African continent, the Designer of the Year honour is awarded to an interior design firm whose work is worthy of acclaim.
Decorex Cape Town, from 6 to 9 June 2024 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) and Decorex Joburg, at the Sandton Convention Centre from 1 to 4 August 2024, will each feature a Designer of the Year stand with Tristan du Plessis’s work.
According to the designer himself, he is aiming to create a “small slice of his international projects” where exhibition attendees will get the chance to experience and explore how he imparts his signature maximalist yet refined luxury into spaces around the world.
"I feel honoured to be chosen as Designer of the Year 2024 as I have a strong connection to South Africa," comments Du Plessis. "Even though the majority of my work is international, I consciously choose to collaborate with South African furniture designers and craftsmen to bring my various projects to life, so to be honoured among these talented designers in my home country is certainly something I’m very excited about."
Du Plessis’s studio was founded in 2015 with a strong focus on signature hospitality projects. The boutique design studio, which started in Johannesburg before expanding to Cape Town in 2022, has undertaken a slew of impressive local and international projects beyond those already mentioned, including Sān Dubai, a beach club inspired by and named after Africa’s first people and Japanese-inspired local restaurant KōL Izakhaya.
Du Plessis's selection as Decorex's Designer of the Year 2024 marks another key moment in his illustrious career, further solidifying his status as a global creative force. His upcoming showcases at Decorex Cape Town and Joburg promise to offer attendees a glimpse into his visionary approach, celebrating his remarkable contributions to the international industry as well as his enduring connection to South Africa.
– Source: www.bizcommunity.com |
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| CAPE TOWN SOCIAL ENTREPRENEUR WINS FORTY UNDER 40 AFRICA CATEGORY |
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| Cape Town social entrepreneur Bushra Razack has won the Forty Under 40 Africa Category thanks to her brilliant work in community upliftment and as the leadership behind the smart township “Philippi Village”. |
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Held in Nairobi, Kenya, the award ceremony paid homage to African leaders and influential people across industries, including social enterprise – a unique space where social upliftment and business walk hand-in-hand.
In even better news, Razack was not merely recognised for her work but also went on to win the category of Best Leader in a Social Enterprise.
As the leadership behind Philippi Village (an integrated community development space for a diverse community of entrepreneurs and small business owners as well as a score of cultural and educational facilities), Razack has played an important role in creating a catalyst of space for township communities on the Cape Flats to empower themselves.
Philippi Village, once an old cement factory, is now a place of refreshed hope. Here, skills can be nurtured and dreams can start to come true as each person (and a multitude of passions) that make up its life force prove how communities can thrive when they have access to the right spaces.
With smart classrooms, film studios, running and bike tracks, urban farm spaces and even an amphitheatre, it has successfully been dubbed a “smart township”. Beyond being a collaborative, community workspace, Philippi Village is also on a mission to create employment opportunities and upskill local community members in the area.
For Razack, this is a physical manifestation of the passion she’s had for humanitarian work and community outreach since she was a child, a passion which has also won the social entrepreneur the Power Woman of the Year in Innovation.
With years of work on development projects across the world under her belt, the award comes as a great encouragement to keep on keeping on. And hopefully, inspire models like Philippi Village to pop up across the continent.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| CAPE TOWN PAYS TRIBUTE TO JUST NUISANCE, WORLD’S FIRST NAVAL DOG |
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| Capetonians braved the windy weather alongside their pooches to honour the life of the first dog in the world to receive an official Royal Navy rank on Saturday, 6 April 2024. |
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Just Nuisance, a pedigreed Great Dane, was born on 1 April 1937. He was bought by a man who worked at the port in Simon’s Town. During World War II, Just Nuisance played a pivotal role in the lives of sailors who passed through Simon’s Town.
“Many years ago, we were sent a photograph of Just Nuisance by a man who’d been taken prisoner by the Japanese,” Cathy Salter, the curator of the Simon’s Town Museum, told Al Jazeera.
“He wasn’t allowed any personal possessions, but he managed to smuggle that photo in and keep it with him throughout. It just shows how important Just Nuisance was to them.”
Salter says the Great Dane took an instant liking to the sailors. “But only the low-ranking ones. He’d have nothing to do with officers.”
Terrence Sisson, Just Nuisance’s biographer, says the dog was “his own master” even though many sailors tried to adopt him.
As reported by Al Jazeera, Just Nuisance was “massive, even for a Great Dane”, weighing 67kg. Sisson, who knew the dog personally, described the animal as “almost human in concept and intelligence”, as the dog would extend its paw to shake hands with humans. |
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His name, Just Nuisance, is derived from him basking in the sun onboard the HMS Neptune, in one of the busiest parts of the ship. This resulted in crews having to move around his long legs and tail.
“Although they were all fond of the dog, their language directed at him was certainly not suitable for the ears of females and young children,” says Sisson, adding that “Just Nuisance” was a cleaner version of these insults.
He became an official member of the Royal Navy on 25 August 1939, the only dog ever to do so.
Last year, about 80 dogs and their owners showed up for the one-km walk at Long Beach to honour Just Nuisance. This year, the procession was led by the Nelson Mandela Artillery Pipes and Drums.
– Source: www.capetownetc.com |
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| DEAN BURMESTER DEFEATS SERGIO GARCIA IN LIV GOLF MIAMI PLAYOFF |
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| Dean Burmester of South Africa saved par at the second playoff hole to defeat Sergio Garcia of Spain and win LIV Golf Miami for his first LIV victory on Sunday, 7 April 2024, at Trump National Doral. |
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After both players made par the first time through, they returned to the tee at the par-4 18th and Garcia's second shot found the water hazard. Burmester got on in two shots and Garcia holed a bogey putt to put the pressure on Burmester to save par.
But there was little to sweat, as Burmester's 3-footer for par was in all the way, giving the 34-year-old his first LIV title after four career wins on the DP World Tour.
Garcia, who held a share of the lead after the first round and a two-stroke advantage after the second, once again came up short in a playoff. The 2017 Masters champion lost a playoff at LIV Golf Singapore last year to Talor Gooch and fell to Chile's Joaquin Niemann at the 2024 season opener at Mayakoba.
Garcia made a dramatic 40-foot birdie putt across the 17th green to get to 12-under, and up ahead, Burmester carded his only bogey of the day at the 18th to finish at 4-under 68 for the day and 11-under 205 for the week.
But when Garcia reached the green in two, he simply had to make two putts to polish off the win in regulation. His first came up well short, and his par attempt slid past the cup, as he settled for a final-round 70 and the playoff.
Matthew Wolff (69 Sunday) finished in third two shots behind at 10-under. Marc Leishman (69) of Australia, Jon Rahm (69) of Spain and Tyrrell Hatton (71) of England tied for fourth at 8-under.
– Source: www.supersport.com |
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| HONG KONG SEVENS UPDATE: BLITZBOKS FINISH SIXTH |
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| The Springbok Sevens team dodged a first bullet in Hong Kong this weekend, which was an important objective for the team. |
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According to interim head coach Philip Snyman, their next aim is to rise back into the top four again.
Snyman’s assessment came after the Blitzboks finished sixth in the Hong Kong Sevens tournament, which saw them qualify for the Grand Final of the reimagined HSBC SVNS in Madrid at the end of May.
The Blitzboks picked up enough log points in Hong Kong, where they delivered their third best finish in the season so far, to remain in the top eight on the overall log and will be part of the winner-takes-all spectacle in Spain.
“It was important for us to stop the slide down the rankings, and I am pleased we could do that,” said Snyman.
“We also topped our pool for the first time in a while, which is evidence of the team’s improvement from the North American leg.”
With their tickets to Madrid booked, the next tournament (Singapore, 3 to 5 May) will be used to fine-tune their squad for the trip to Spain and the repechage tournament for Olympic Games qualification in Monaco in June, Snyman said.
– Source: www.sapeople.com |
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| KRUGERSDORP JUDO CHAMP BAGS GOLDEN WIN |
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| Talented youngster, and up and coming judo champ, Oabile Molefe has made Krugersdorp High and the South African judo community very proud after he earned a glittering achievement at the 2024 Commonwealth Judo Championships. |
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Held in Pembroke, Malta from early in April, the Commonwealth Judo Championships saw judo champ after judo champ step up to the competition with the hopes to represent their home nations, schools and training academies in full glory.
Molefe competed in the U18 division after being selected by Judo South Africa to represent our country in the prestigious event and claimed gold for his efforts; making him the judo champ in his age and weight group, as KJK Judo Club shared.
Krugersdorp High sang Molefe’s praises, while the larger South African community congratulated him on the fantastic sign to keep chasing his dreams
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| JORDY SMITH IS READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP IN HIS CAREER AT THE 2024 OLYMPICS |
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| Jordy Smith, a highly accomplished professional male surfer from South Africa, is eagerly preparing for what could potentially be the defining moment of his career. |
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The upcoming Global Games, to be held in France this year, will feature an unprecedented surfing event that is set to take place at the renowned Teahupo’o in Tahiti, a French colony. This unique location is known as one of the most technically difficult waves in the world to surf and was selected to ensure that the surfing event is as credible as possible.
While the sport was only recently added to the programme, the waves at the first competition held in the 2020 global stage were far from world-class. As a result, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has taken the radical decision to host the surfing event on a different continent and time zone. Notably, the excitement is palpable among competitors like Smith, who currently holds the ninth rank on the elite WSL (World Surf League) Men’s Championship Tour.
Outside of a few choice events every two years or so, surfing is usually a solo sport, and, although still a new addition to the Games, competitive surfers worldwide are itching to represent their countries on the global stage. |
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“It’s obviously a huge accomplishment to represent your country; it’s kind of the biggest accolade that you could possibly have on an international level,” Smith says, adding that from a more personal perspective, the mainstream exposure for him as an athlete and the sport as a whole at such a high level is something to be proud of. “I just feel really honoured,” he says.
“Having your fellow countrymen and women on the team is super special,” says Smith. He says, “I’m sure they will be supporting me as much as I will be supporting them.”
On top of his fellow countrymen and women at the event, Smith will be working closely with his coaching team as they are an integral part of his success.
“The coaches and the staff play a huge role, keeping everything calm around you, making sure that you’re able to compete at the highest level and do the best for your country.”
Smith is a highly skilled and experienced athlete who is determined to clinch the gold medal. He understands that achieving peak performance requires a holistic approach that addresses various aspects of his training, such as board preparation, body conditioning, and proper nutrition. Smith recognises that the key to success in high-pressure tournaments like this one lies not only in physical fitness but also in mental preparation. He places great emphasis on developing a strong mindset that enables him to remain focused and composed even in the most challenging situations.
In his own words, “What really helps my preparation and my mindset more than anything into approaching high-pressure events or moments, or just life in general.”
The inclusion of surfing at the 2024 global stage once again marks a significant milestone for the sport as it attains the recognition it deserves as a mainstream discipline.
“I think it’s growing, it’s something interesting and I think we’re only scratching the surface to be going to Tahiti,” says Smith. Commenting on his strategy for such a momentous occasion, he explains: “As far as strategy goes, it’s really hard to predict what’s going to happen”.
He also acknowledges that, although taking place at a dream location for many, the unpredictability and technicality of Teahupo’o’s wave conditions are always at the forefront of any surfer’s mind, especially considering its reputation of having the world’s heaviest waves on certain swell and wind conditions. Something very hard to predict, which makes surfing so different from, say, tennis – where the courts remain standard regardless of the competition: “You can only really kind of see that about a week out from the competition just due to Mother Nature; she chops and changes whenever she wants so you have to adjust on the fly and go with it,” says Smith, explaining how he has been developing a quiver of surfboards alongside his surfboard-shaper dad, Graham, to suit all possible conditions at Teahupo’o.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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