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| PRESIDENCY ASSERTS RESPONSIBILITY AND STANCE ON SOUTH AFRICA’S FOREIGN POLICY |
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| On 20 August 2023, ahead of the South African Chaired XV BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) Summit, President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered an address to the nation on South Africa’s foreign policy. |
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In the address, President Ramaphosa articulated the principles and values that shape our foreign policy and inform our international relations when he said: “Before the dawn of democracy in 1994, the apartheid South African state was a pariah in the international community, condemned for committing a crime against humanity.
The foreign policy of apartheid South Africa was defined by coercion, destabilisation and military aggression. Since the advent of democracy, South Africa’s foreign policy has been based on what our forebears inscribed in the Freedom Charter in 1955, when they declared that “South Africa shall be a fully independent state that respects the rights and the sovereignty of all nations; South Africa shall strive to maintain world peace and the settlement of all international disputes by negotiation—not war”.
The President further affirmed South Africa’s foreign policy as a vital element of our nation’s progress. South Africa’s strong relations with other countries manifested through investment and trade relations that can contribute to the growth of our economy, create more opportunities for new businesses and create jobs.
President Ramaphosa has been steadfast in maintaining South Africa’s commitment to the policy of active non-alignment. South Africa has resisted pressure to align with any one of the global powers or with influential blocs of nations in their pursuit of power contestations that are unfolding in countries across the globe.
The President observed during his foreign policy address that, “during the ‘Cold War’, the stability and sovereignty of many African countries were undermined because of their alignment with the major powers. This experience has convinced us of the need to seek strategic partnerships with other countries rather than be dominated by any other country.
While some of our detractors prefer overt support for their political and ideological choices, we will not be drawn into a contest between global powers. Instead, our country strives to work with all countries for global peace and development.”
It is this resolute adherence to the policy of non-alignment and to the prescripts of the Freedom Charter that informed our constitution that South Africa continues to contribute towards the attainment of world peace and silencing the guns on our continent.
In declaring President Putin and the people of Russia as “valuable friends and allies”, President Ramaphosa was not projecting any particular country or block of countries as the enemy. Similarly, as a country that has no enemies, South Africa regards the members of BRICS as friends.
It is through the policy of non-alignment that South Africa has been able to constructively engage with both Russia and Ukraine.
In several engagements, President Ramaphosa has emphasised the centrality of the United Nations Charter and the need for peaceful dialogue in resolving conflict. In the process, South Africa has also maintained its strong historical ties with the Russian Federation while enjoying cordial diplomatic bilateral relations with Ukraine.
South Africa has also been unwavering in advocating for a peace process that includes the full participation of both countries.
On Monday, 28 October 2024, South Africa’s International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, will host his Ukrainian counterpart, Minister Andrii Sybiha. Among the highlights of the visit will be the signing of an Agreement on Visa Waiver for Diplomatic Service or Official Passports.
This will enable South African officials to travel to Ukraine for peace formula meetings without visa logistical impediments. This development, which has been in the making since 2020, signals South Africa’s commitment to growing diplomatic relations with Ukraine.
Within the first six months of 2025, the year of South Africa’s G20 Presidency, our country will also host the South Africa-European Union Summit. South Africa is the only partner in Africa among the EU’s 10 bilateral strategic partnerships. The summit will further enhance the existing partnership with the European Union.
South Africa will continue working towards strengthening the strategic, trade and political bilateral relationships with key partners. including the People’s Republic of China, the United States of America, Germany, Japan, India and others.
South Africa will further consolidate the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which is set to eliminate trade barriers, boost intra-African trade and achieve prosperity for all of Africa. The AfCFTA will also accelerate manufacturing and industrial capacity on our continent.
As President Cyril Ramaphosa continues to lead the Seventh Administration in strengthening all key political and trade ties, working in solidarity with the oppressed peoples of the world in Palestine and Western Sahara, while advocating for peaceful resolution of conflicts around the globe, South Africa will maintain a foreign policy that is informed by solidarity, peace, equality, human rights and sustainable development for the benefit of all.
This is the responsibility that President Ramaphosa will continue to exercise without any undue pressure and in line with South Africa’s national sovereign interest.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za
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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA TO HOST PRESIDENT MBUMBA OF NAMIBIA FOR A WORKING VISIT |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday 29 October 2024 hosted His Excellency President, Dr Nanogold Mbumba of the Republic of Namibia for a Working Visit to the Republic of South Africa at Genadendal, the Official Residence of the President in Cape Town. |
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The visit aimed to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries and to consolidate the strong ties whose foundation was forged during their common struggle against colonialism and apartheid.
President Mbumba’s Working Visit to South Africa follows Minister Ronald Lamola’s recent participation at the Ministerial Meeting of the Political, Diplomatic and Legal Committee of the South Africa–Namibia Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Swakopmund, Namibia.
President Mbumba used his meeting with President Ramaphosa to reflect on his tenure as the President of Namibia as well as apprised the President on the political and economic situation in Namibia, and within the governing party, the South West African People’s Organisation.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za
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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA CONGRATULATES INCOMING SECRETARY-GENERAL OF THE COMMONWEALTH |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended his personal congratulations, along with those of the South African Government, to Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, on her recent appointment as the next Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. |
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Minister Botchwey is set to begin her four-year term on 1 April 2025, leading the 56-member association.
In his message, President Ramaphosa conveyed his warm wishes and pledged support for her tenure, noting the Commonwealth’s critical priorities set out at the recent Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.
“The recent Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting correctly identified climate resilience; sustainable peace and the peaceful resolution of all disputes, in accordance with international law; and increased intra-Commonwealth trade and investment as imperatives for our shared sustainability and prosperity. |
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“South Africa looks forward to the Secretary-General’s guidance and stewardship in the advancement of these objectives, which align very strongly with South Africa’s national development goals, as well as the vision for a better Africa and better world more broadly.
“I wish her well as she prepares to take on this important role,” President Ramaphosa said.
The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 56 independent and equal sovereign states, with a combined population of 2.7 billion, of which more than 60% is aged 29 or under.
Encompassing both advanced and developing economies, it includes 33 small states, many of which are island nations.
The Commonwealth Secretariat assists member countries in strengthening democratic institutions, governance, justice, and human rights. Its initiatives aim to enhance economic growth, trade, youth empowerment and resilience against global challenges like climate change, debt and inequality.
Support for these goals is further extended through a network of over 80 intergovernmental, civil society, cultural and professional organisations.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT WELCOMES RELEASE OF PRELIMINARY ELECTION RESULTS IN MOZAMBIQUE |
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| President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the release of the preliminary results of the general elections in Mozambique by the National Electoral Commission (CNE). |
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The general elections were held in Mozambique on 9 October 2024.
The Mozambican Constitutional Council is expected to validate and proclaim the electoral results in the next 14 days.
The Presidency said on Sunday, 27 October 2024, that based on the preliminary results, President Ramaphosa offered his warm congratulations to President-Elect Daniel Chapo and his party, Frente de Libertação de Moçambique (FRELIMO).
President Ramaphosa commended the people of Mozambique for their active and enthusiastic participation in the elections, especially women, who constituted 53% of the voters.
Similarly, President Ramaphosa applauded the CNE for the professional way in which they conducted the elections.
“The President notes that these elections are historic since they were held 32 years following the signing of the General Peace Agreement (GPA), which brought an end to the civil war and introduced multi-party democracy in Mozambique,” said The Presidency.
It said that President Ramaphosa has expressed concern about the ongoing post-election violence and the deaths of Elvino Dias and Paulo Guambe and other people who have lost their lives.
The President conveyed his deepest condolences to the Government of the Republic of Mozambique and the families of the deceased.
“President Ramaphosa reiterates the call made by various leaders in Mozambique to the law enforcement agencies to speedily investigate these incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“Furthermore, President Ramaphosa calls for calm and restraint and urges all the disaffected parties to exhaust the established legal remedies to resolve their election grievances,” said The Presidency.
President Ramaphosa remains committed to strengthening the historic and fraternal relations between South Africa and Mozambique as well as the consolidation of peace and security to enable the country to fully realise its potential for development.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA DELIVERS COUNTRY STATEMENT AT BRICS SUMMIT |
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| The Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) Engagement and BRICS Plus platforms are an opportunity for countries to forge greater and deeper ties for development. |
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This, according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who was delivering South Africa’s country statement during the BRICS/Plus Countries First Session in Kazan, Russia.
The leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates met for the first time since new members were invited to join BRICS during the Johannesburg BRICS Summit of 23 August 2023.
Together, the powerful bloc holds around 35% of the global gross domestic product (GDP) and 20% of world exports.
“The BRICS Outreach and BRICS Plus engagements are important platforms for developing strong ties among countries from the greater global South and emerging markets.
“We should use these platforms to foster meaningful engagement. We should use the BRICS platform to contribute to the social, economic, and cultural development of our peoples,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President welcomed initiatives by Russia aimed at developing other BRICS nations.
“We welcome the Russian initiatives that are aimed at strengthening a number of BRICS countries through the various networks aimed at improving the future of BRICS countries’ transport networks and connectivity under the theme, Innovation and Digitalisation of Transport.
“This will help us find ways to integrate and deepen our interconnectedness in new and imaginative ways,” he said.
The President noted that work has already begun in this regard through the International North-South Transport Corridor—a multimodal transportation corridor established from St. Petersburg in Russia to Mumbai, India.
“This corridor is an opportunity for this region to unlock new trade flows and trade routes in an increasingly multipolar world.
“On the African continent, the African Continental Free Trade Area will unlock opportunities for trade and investment for local and global businesses. It will create a number of opportunities that will lead to an integrated and connected continent,” President Ramaphosa said.
He encouraged BRICS countries and friends of BRICS to “use these projects to further connect the greater global South”.
International conflicts
The President called for the resolution of conflicts that are escalating not only in the Middle East but also on the African continent.
“We must find lasting solutions to all these conflicts.
“We must remain committed to the peaceful resolution of all disputes through negotiation and inclusive dialogue. We must safeguard the ability of states to pursue independent foreign policy.
“We must safeguard the multilateral system because it is the cornerstone of international relations and foster an environment of peace and development,” he said.
He emphasised that conflicts cannot be allowed to “continue in perpetuity”.
“We need to find paths to peace. In our quest for a more interconnected, just and prosperous world, we have the ability to foster an environment of peace through a focus on sustainable development.
“We must continue to support nations and peoples who seek to end the cycle of conflict and choose the path of peace,” President Ramaphosa said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| PASSING OF FORMER MINISTER MDLADLANA ANOTHER ENORMOUS LOSS FOR SOUTH AFRICA |
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| Deputy President Paul Mashatile says the passing of former Labour Minister Membathisi Mdladlana has been an enormous loss not only for his family but also for the country and the democratic movement. |
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“To those among us who have sipped from the well of his wisdom and insight, we extend our gratitude to his family for the grace of sharing him with us through both trials and triumphs,” Deputy President Mashatile said.
The Deputy President was speaking at the Official Memorial Service held in the Western Cape on Saturday, 26 October 2024.
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The later former Minister and High Commissioner to Canada passed away on Friday, 18 October 2024, at the age of 72.
His family requested a private funeral, which took place on Wednesday, 23 October 2024.
The Deputy President said on Saturday that in recent times, the country has had to part ways with many “guiding stars, companions, allies and cherished souls who have traversed the tumultuous journey to illuminate the way toward democracy”. |
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“They belonged to an illustrious generation of revolutionaries and servant leaders whose contribution to the liberation and development of South Africa remains immeasurable,” he said.
These stalwarts set themselves on a course to liberate South Africa from tyranny.
“What brings us solace and profound delight is that unlike many of their comrades, they have tasted the sweetness of freedom in their days. A tale I trust they shall weave upon reaching the other side, recounting to those who were not graced with such fortune to behold it.
“Those who have recently departed achieved their mission and fulfilled their personal destinies. Yet their work, our work, is not yet complete. The South Africa of true equality for all is still to be fully realised,” the Deputy President said.
The Deputy President said the late Mdladlana was one of the leading lights in the struggle for liberation.
“He was the embodiment of resilience. His life provided a lesson in the true nature of social justice, that one must seek for others what you seek for yourself. He understood that a thriving economy depends on the well-being of its workers. He fought to ensure that South Africa’s workforce received fair treatment and protection under the law.
“During his tenure, he fully implemented the Basic Conditions of Employment Act of 1997, one of the most significant pieces of legislation. This Act guaranteed fair working hours, decent wages and safeguards against exploitation for workers,” Deputy President Mashatile said.
Mdladlana was an activist, a unionist, and a leader who was able to transcend an unjust system.
“He did it not for his own personal gain but for the benefit and improvement of others. He always reiterated the rallying cry that an injury to one is an injury to all,” Deputy President Mashatile said.
He said Mdladlana walked by faith rather than sight as stated in the great book.
“He hoped and believed that South Africa would one day be free and certainly it is today.”
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| UKRAINE VISA AGREEMENT STILL UNDERGOING DIPLOMATIC PROCESSES |
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| International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, has confirmed that the long-awaited visa waiver for Ukrainian holders of diplomatic and official passports will move forward through diplomatic channels, with the agreement to be signed upon the completion of the necessary procedures. |
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“Once those processes have been concluded, the agreement will then be concluded, which will enable our diplomats with service and official passports to be able to travel between the two countries seamlessly,” the Minister said on Monday, 28 October 2024.
Minister Lamola made the remarks in Pretoria while hosting his Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha, the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
“The agreement has not been signed and once all the diplomatic processes have been concluded, the agreement will be signed. The officials between the two departments, including the Department of Home Affairs, have agreed in terms of the text of this agreement, which represents progress because it’s a process that was started by my predecessor.”
Minister Lamola noted that the process was “ripe” for conclusion and stated that his team was dedicated to completing the project.
Minister Lamola said he has noted the Ukraine’s request for reciprocity concerning ordinary citizens.
“As we are aware, we service our citizens and the citizens of Ukraine through Warsaw in Poland, which complicates our work. We will process this matter through our own internal mechanisms, and we’ll be able to give you feedback through the diplomatic channels.
“Regarding this request, we deliberated on constraints to fragile international security, including, but not limited to, the current wars.”
Minister Lamola told Minister Sybiha and his delegates that he was pleased to learn that the Ukraine wants peace and that they are willing and ready to engage with Russia, as suggested by South Africa.
“We believe that in this conflict, it’s important that all the warring factions are on the table, and they [are] able to engage.
“They cannot only meet on the battlefield, because any peaceful resolution will come through diplomatic engagements and peaceful negotiations of the conflict that is currently ongoing.”
Minister Lamola believes that it is important to find long-lasting peace in this ongoing conflict that has affected the global supply of grain and food prices across the globe.
“It is in the interest of us and the people of the world that we see a peaceful resolution to this conflict, and we look forward to that engagement through the peace formula that will involve all the parties.”
Minister Lamola said he was looking forward to continuing the engagement between the two parties with regard to the Africa Initiative led by President Cyril Ramaphosa and other African leaders.
This initiative aims to persuade the parties to a negotiation platform, Minister Lamola explained, adding that South Africa is also part of the China-Brazil initiative, which is also pushing to bring the parties to any engagement. Minister stated that he is hopeful that one day this will be realised.
Minister Lamola told the delegation that South Africa, which has also engaged in peace efforts in Africa, particularly in the Sahel region and Sudan, was “very concerned” about the current humanitarian crisis.
This includes the maiming of innocent children and women in Sudan, while the Red Cross, the largest humanitarian organisation, has declared the Sahel region as one of the biggest humanitarian disasters the world has ever seen.
Shifting his focus back to the political consultations, Minister Lamola said South Africa is looking forward to allowing diplomatic processes that will enable the strengthening of bilateral trade between South Africa and the Ukraine.
This involves the areas of trade, digital transformation, agriculture, and many other fields, including the skills gap that exists in both nations.
Meanwhile, the Minister said his department will process the invite they received to visit Ukraine.
“We will be able to give feedback in terms of what is possible after we have followed all the diplomatic processes,” he said.
He also stressed South Africa’s non-alignment stance and the country’s participation in various initiatives aimed at finding a solution to this ongoing conflict.
“There must be a channel of communication that is open, that enables them to engage on some issues, including finding a ceasefire in that conflict. This is very important for the people of the group, in line with the UN [United Nations] Charter.”
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA DELIVERS EVIDENCE OF ISRAEL GENOCIDE TO ICJ |
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| South Africa has filed its Memorial to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on 28 October 2024, in its case on the Application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip (South Africa vs. Israel). |
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In accordance with the rules of court, the Memorial may not be made public. The filing of this memorial takes place at a time when Israel is intensifying the killing of civilians in Gaza and now seems intent to follow a similar path of destruction in Lebanon. The action taken by South Africa since December 2023, culminating in the filing of this Memorial has generated overwhelming national and international interest.
The Memorial—the name for the document recording the main case of South Africa against Israel—contains evidence that shows how the government of Israel has violated the genocide convention by promoting the destruction of Palestinians living in Gaza, physically killing them with an assortment of destructive weapons, depriving them access to humanitarian assistance, causing conditions of life that are aimed at their physical destruction, ignoring and defying several provisional measures of the ICJ, and using starvation as a weapon of war and to further Israel’s aims to depopulate Gaza through mass death and forced displacement of Palestinians. |
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The evidence will show that undergirding Israel’s genocidal acts is the special intent to commit genocide, a failure by Israel to prevent incitement to genocide, to prevent genocide itself, and its failure to punish those inciting and committing acts of genocide.
The evidence is detailed in over 750 pages of text, supported by exhibits and annexes of over 4 000 pages. South Africa’s Memorial is a reminder to the global community to remember the people of Palestine, to stand in solidarity with them and to stop the catastrophe. The devastation and suffering have been possible only because despite the ICJ and numerous United Nations (UN) bodies’ actions and interventions, Israel has failed to comply with its international obligations.
Last week, the world commemorated the signing of the Charter of the United Nations seventy-nine years ago. The UN was created to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war. To live up to this aspiration, all nations must insist on compliance with the UN Charter and international law. The action taken by South Africa and joined by other states is primarily to stop a genocide in Palestine peacefully through holding Israel accountable in the institutions set up for this very purpose by the UN.
Israel has been granted unprecedented impunity to breach international law and norms for as long as the UN Charter has been in existence. Israel’s continued shredding of international law has imperilled the institutions of global governance that were established to hold all states accountable.
As President Ramaphosa stated in his address to the UN General Assembly this year, “The South African story bears witness to the enduring role of the United Nations in global matters. In supporting our struggle, the UN affirmed the principles of the UN Charter—fundamental human rights, the dignity and worth of every person, and the equal rights of nations, large and small”.
President Ramaphosa emphasised that South Africa’s action through the ICJ was an attempt to ensure that the same global solidarity that helped end apartheid in South Africa should be mobilised to end the apartheid that Palestinians are experiencing, including an end to the genocide of Palestinians.
The glaring genocide in Gaza is there for all who are not blinded by prejudice to see. South Africa expresses gratitude to the other nations that have filed Article 62 and 63 interventions to join the case that has been initiated at the ICJ.
We reiterate our appeal for an immediate cease-fire in Palestine, in Lebanon and the entire region, and the start of a political process to ensure a just and lasting peace.
The Palestinian struggle against imperialism, Israeli apartheid and settler colonialism is the daily reality of the Palestinian people. Since 1948, they have faced various forms of colonisation, often backed by historical colonial powers and, more recently, by states intent on shaping a world order in their interests. The global fight against settler colonialism persists in some parts of the world, including in occupied Palestine, both in Gaza and the West Bank.
The international community cannot stand idly by while innocent civilians, including women, children, hospital workers, humanitarian aid workers, and journalists, are killed for simply being. That is a world we cannot accept.
South Africa’s case at the ICJ is a comprehensive presentation of the overwhelming evidence of genocide in Gaza.
The government wishes to thank its legal team for their dedication, skill and commitment.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za |
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| DEPUTY MINISTER BOTES CONCLUDES VISIT TO ITALY, WHERE HE REPRESENTED SOUTH AFRICA IN THE G7 DEVELOPMENT MINISTERIAL MEETING |
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| Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes, has concluded his visit to Pescara, Italy, where he participated in the Group of Sevent (G7) Development Ministerial Meeting of Outreach Countries and International Organisations. The meeting took place on 23 and 24 October 2024. |
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The outreach sessions of the G7 have been a steady feature of the group, aimed at strengthening unity among G7 members and likeminded countries to deliberate on and address some of the world’s most pressing issues. Reflecting the outward-looking approach of recent presidencies, guest leaders are invited to join outreach sessions within the summit agenda.
Italy’s focus on Africa has been integral as it continues to promote its newly launched Piano Mattei Plan, which seeks to establish an equal partnership model with the African continent.
“South Africa appreciates and commends the Italian initiative to focus part of the agenda of the G7 on Africa to strengthen cooperation between the two parties in a mutually beneficial manner,” said Deputy Minister Botes.
The Deputy Minister held bilateral meetings with the Norwegian State Secretary for International Development of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bjørg Sandkjær; Deputy Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, Isobel Coleman; and Administrator for the United Nations Development Programme, Achim Steiner.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za |
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| TRUSTED TOUR OPERATOR SCHEME TO BOOST TOURISM FROM CHINA AND INDIA |
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| In a groundbreaking move to enhance the job creation that flows from increased tourism, the Department of Home Affairs has announced the gazetting of the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS), just two months after work began on this scheme. |
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The scheme was conceptualised by the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, following consultations with the tourism sector and the Minister of Tourism about the way in which visa inefficiency and red tape throttle South Africa’s ability to attract more tourists from these two burgeoning source markets.
The department said research indicates that boosting tourism by only 10% per year can increase annual economic growth by 0.6% and create thousands of new jobs for South Africans.
“To resolve bottlenecks and reposition Home Affairs as an economic enabler, the department has [on Monday, 28 October 2024] gazetted a call for expression of interest by established tour operators from South Africa and abroad who wish to sign up to the scheme to bring more tourists from China and India to our country.
“Chinese tourists made over 100 million outbound trips in 2023, with South Africa receiving only 93 000 of these arrivals. In comparison, a country like Australia attracted over 1.4 million visitors from China in 2023.
“At the moment, Indian tourists account for only 3.9% of all international visitors to South Africa, and China for only 1.8%,” said the department.
The TTOS is designed to overcome concrete problems, including challenges with processing group visa applications from these countries, capacity constraints at foreign missions, and language barriers.
“Approved tour operators will benefit from reduced red tape and enhanced turnaround times on visa applications they submit for large tour groups.
“All TTOS applications will be handled by a dedicated team of adjudicators to ensure swift and reliable processing. In turn, operators will be held liable for any legal transgressions committed by tourists travelling under their banner,” said the department.
The qualification criteria for the scheme were drawn up through public consultation with the tourism sector and other key stakeholders.
All applications to TTOS will be fairly and transparently adjudicated according to a points-based system that allocates points on the basis of a company’s legal compliance, operating experience, proof of operational capacity, and cross-country collaboration.
A minimum of 12 months’ operational experience will be a prerequisite for an applicant to be considered.
The call for expression of interest will be open for a period of 30 days, whereafter Home Affairs, in collaboration with other departments, will assess security and vet applications with the aim of enrolling the first group of tour operators.
South Africa’s target remains to welcome the first tourists, brought to South Africa through TTOS, in January 2025. Home Affairs will consider further intakes for the scheme in the future, depending on internal capacity and the success of the rollout.
To build awareness around this scheme, the department has launched a distinctive TTOS logo that communicates its commitment to growing tourism to South Africa in a secure and efficient manner.
As a contribution towards the apex priority of digital transformation, Home Affairs has digitised the application process for TTOS.
Instead of e-mail applications that result in drawn-out manual and paper-based decision-making processes, a user-friendly online portal will enhance transparency and improve turnaround times.
Companies that wish to express an interest in the scheme simply need to visit https://touroperator.dha.gov.za:8443 or access the portal via the TTOS banner on www.dha.gov.za.
“I salute the officials who have been working overtime to bring this pathbreaking scheme to life. The speed at which Home Affairs has moved from conceptualisation to execution on TTOS demonstrates our deeply-held commitment to supporting our colleagues in the Department of Tourism and in the tourism sector in order to create thousands of new jobs for the people of South Africa,” said Minister Schreiber.
He thanked the Minister in the Presidency and the Minister of Tourism for their support and collaboration on this work.
“Our country should be one of the premier tourism destinations on earth, and we at #TeamHomeAffairs are playing our part to turn this vision into reality.
“The introduction of TTOS is part of the significant interim reforms we are putting in place to enhance the efficiency of Home Affairs while we work towards our five-year vision of delivering Home Affairs@home through digital transformation.
“I am confident that this scheme will make an immediate contribution towards growing tourism and job creation, and I look forward to welcoming the first tour groups facilitated through TTOS as early as January 2025,” Schreiber said.
The gazette can be accessed at https://www.dha.gov.za/images/PDFs/Gazette51437_20241028.pdf.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA TO PARTICIPATE IN THE 36TH MEETING OF THE PARTIES |
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| South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Bernice Swarts, will participate in the 36th Meeting of the Parties (MOP36) to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer in Bangkok, Thailand. |
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The meeting is expected to start on Monday, 28 October and end on Thursday, 31 October 2024.
The Montreal Protocol is a global treaty established to protect the earth's ozone layer by phasing out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances (ODS).
The agreement, signed on 16 September 1987, entering into force in 1989, has become a landmark in international environmental protection.
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Despite its successes, some ODS replacements, known as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), have emerged as potent greenhouse gases, with some being over a thousand times more powerful than carbon dioxide in driving climate change.
The 2016 Kigali Amendment to the Protocol introduced measures to reduce HFCs, with an anticipated avoidance of up to 0.4°C in global temperature rise by 2100, while still safeguarding the ozone layer.
Key agenda topics for MOP 36 include life cycle refrigerant management, emissions of carbon tetrachloride, feedstock uses of controlled substances and energy-efficient, low-global-warming-potential technologies.
On Wednesday, 30 October 2024, Deputy Minister Swarts will deliver a statement during the high-level segment of the combined meetings of the Conference of the Parties to the Vienna Convention and the 35th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol.
The segment will be chaired by the presidents of both meetings and attended by representatives from the United Nations Environment Programme.
Deputy Minister Swarts will engage in bilateral meetings with counterparts from other countries to strengthen collaboration on phasing out ozone-depleting substances.
She will also attend several side events on information sharing on the management of Ozone Depleting Substances and maximising the climate benefit.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICA WELL PLACED TO BE MAJOR HUB IN CLEAN TECH VALUE CHAIN |
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| South Africa is well placed to become a hub for components and equipment manufacturing in the clean technology value chain, including battery technologies for energy storage, electric mobility, material handling, and a range of other applications. |
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This is according to the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Andrew Whitfield, who addressed the opening of the R150 million Balancell state-of-the-art Gigafactory in Cape Town.
Balancell is a future-focussed, innovative technology business that develops smart batteries designed to manage and protect themselves and report their use and condition remotely.
“The South African Government is working closely with the industry to identify opportunities to deepen the battery technology value chain and to position South Africa as a manufacturing hub on the African continent.
“A recent benchmarking study, supported by the World Bank Group, shows that South Africa is a competitive manufacturing destination and offers a compelling value proposition for companies in this sector, as demonstrated here,” Whitfield said.
To support these ambitions, Whitfield said there was a number of policies and incentives in place that would enable the growth of this key sector. He said Cabinet has already approved the New Energy Vehicle White paper, setting out the objectives for this sector.
“Being able to witness an investment from homegrown companies in this sector is truly inspiring. Balancell’s investment of R150 million in this factory is not only directly in line with the strategic priorities of the Government of National Unity but also a demonstration of the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit that defines many South African businesses.
“We are motivated by the company’s prospects for growth and further job creation in the coming years. The 75 existing jobs created in this [Gigafactory], supporting more than 1 500 indirect jobs, is a clear indication of the multiplier effect that can be achieved by strengthening and growing the manufacturing sector,” Deputy Minister Whitfield said.
A Gigafactory is a huge factory that produces very large numbers of batteries for electric vehicles.
The Deputy Minister highlighted the importance of building a strong base of skilled South Africans.
“Expanding industry partnerships with leading universities and research institutions to enhance local research, development and testing of components is critical to the industry. I am, therefore, encouraged that you are already working with the Nelson Mandela and Stellenbosch Universities, as well as the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research,” the Deputy Minister said.
He described the opening of the Gigafactory as an affirmation of the importance of building industrial capacity and working together to achieve the shared vision of South Africa being a global player in the battery value chain.
He further said the investment is an example of South African resilience, innovation and entrepreneurship.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| DTIC TO FUND 35 COMPANIES TO PARTICIPATE IN CHINA'S IMPORT EXPO |
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| The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) says it will fund 35 South African companies, through the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA) group scheme, to participate in the China International Import Expo (CIIE) 2024. |
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The expo is set to take place in Shanghai from 5 to 10 November 2024.
South Africa is participating in this event to showcase products and services from local companies to potential buyers in China and from across the globe. The South African companies will also be exposed to the culture of doing business with Chinese enterprises.
The Deputy Director-General of Exports at the dtic, Lerato Mataboge, said the 35 participants this year will represent a range of sectors, including agro-processing and agriculture, textiles, clothing and leather, oil and gas, the rail industry, electro-technical, chemicals, metal fabrication, ICT and mining.
“The exhibition is aligned with our strategic objectives of advancing South African exports through assisting new and existing South African exporters to penetrate international markets.
“The CIIE 2024 is one of the leading import-themed fairs in China and a key platform to profile our offerings to South Africa’s largest trading partner and the second largest economy in the world. The Chinese economy is seeing increasing levels of consumption, which also reflects growing potential and demand for certain imported products,” Mataboge said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| CALL FOR GLOBAL INVESTORS TO REGISTER FOR POST MTBPS ENGAGEMENT |
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| Global investors, who wish to participate in engagements on the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) after it has been delivered by the Minister of Finance, have been encouraged to register for the roadshows that will be led by National Treasury. |
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Global investors, who wish to participate in engagements on the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) after it has been delivered by the Minister of Finance, have been encouraged to register for the roadshows that will be led by National Treasury.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana presented the 2024 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (2024 MTBPS) to Parliament on Wednesday, 30 October 2024.
“The Republic of South Africa, rated Ba2/BB-/BB- (Moody’s/S&P/Fitch) has mandated Absa and J.P. Morgan to arrange a Global Investor Call (GIC) and a non-deal domestic roadshow to engage investors post tabling the MTBPS,” National Treasury said last week.
The GIC was scheduled for Wednesday, 30 October 2024, at 16:00 SAST/14:00 GMT/10:00 EST, followed by a series of in-person fixed income investor update meetings in Cape Town on Thursday, 31 October 2024, and Friday, 1 November 2024, and in Johannesburg on Monday, 4 November 2024. Absa will be arranging logistics.
The GIC and investor meetings will be led by the National Treasury Director-General, Dr Duncan Pieterse, and supported by senior officials.
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The in-person international investor meetings will commence in New York on Monday, 18 November 2024, and in Boston on Tuesday, 19 November 2024, followed by investor meetings in London on Thursday, 21 November 2024, and Friday, 22 November 2024. J.P. Morgan will be arranging logistics.
This is part of National Treasury’s regular post-budget and MTBPS investor engagements.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
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| TO INFINITY AND BEYOND: UKZN PARTNERS WITH UK UNIVERSITY RESEARCH PROGRAMME IN SPACE ENGINEERING |
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| The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has joined hands with United Kingdom (UK)-based University of Glasgow to research the development of space propulsion technologies. |
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The UK Government has forked out R2 million in funding to support the programme via its Department of Science, Innovation and Technology. UKZN's Aerospace Systems Research Institute (ASRI) director, Professor Michael Brooks, said researchers from the University of Glasgow's Space and Exploration Technology Group are working with propulsion engineers from ASRI to improve metal additive manufacturing techniques, also called 3D printing, for rocket engine components.
He added that it is an important step in broadening aerospace engineering research and development collaboration between South Africa and the UK.
"We're delighted to begin this joint Research and Development (R&D) programme with the University of Glasgow," said Brooks.
"Developing rocket technologies and the ground systems to support commercial launch is complex and time-consuming, and there are advantages to pooling resources and working with institutions that have similar ambitions. ASRI will be working closely with the University of Glasgow engineers to solve some of the challenges facing the aerospace industry in the area of metal 3D printing," he said.
"There are striking similarities between the development journeys at the University of Glasgow and at UKZN. We encountered many of the same issues as we set up our capabilities, and we have found that we chose to advance in broadly the same way in the past. That is why we are excited to be working together now, and as our ambitions grow and we move towards space, we will be tackling the next set of challenges together," added Space and Exploration Technology Group’s leader, Professor Patrick Harkness.
Head of the Africa Science and Innovation Network at the UK High Commission in Pretoria, Aidan Darker, said the UK Government is delighted to support this project, further strengthening the South Africa-UK science and research relationship in this key area of mutual interest.
"We hope this will lead to further collaboration between the UK and South Africa in the space sector and the transfer of expertise between our two countries," Darker added.
Both institutions have experience in designing, building and testing rocket propulsion systems.
University of Glasgow researchers have an active propulsion engineering programme that includes a vibrant student rocketry society. Among its various activities, the university is currently developing a cryogenic bipropellant rocket ground test facility at Machrihanish in Scotland.
ASRI, which currently holds the African altitude record for hybrid rockets, set in 2021, and is developing the SAFFIRE liquid propellant rocket engine to power an indigenous satellite launch vehicle, develops hybrid rockets and liquid propellant engines as well as on-orbit satellite thrusters. The institute’s research activities are funded by the South African Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI).
– Source: www.iol.co.za |
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| FIVE-STAR INTERNATIONAL HOTEL BRAND COMING TO SOUTH AFRICA |
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| The luxury hotel brand Park Hyatt will start operating in South Africa in November. The new 31-key luxury property will be based in Rosebank, Johannesburg, and is set to be the smallest Park Hyatt in the world. |
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Private Equity firm, the Millat Group, will operate the property, which it said will redefine ultra-luxury hospitality in Johannesburg.
“At Millat, we believe in the potential of South Africa as a premier travel destination,” said Hamza Farooqui, CEO of Millat Group.
“We are delighted to welcome the Park Hyatt Johannesburg to the Millat property portfolio in the country soon, which includes a Hyatt Regency in Cape Town and two Hyatt House properties in Sandton and Rosebank.
“With the opening of Park Hyatt Johannesburg, we are committed to showcasing the richness of our culture and the warmth of our hospitality.”
Park Hyatt forms part of Hyatt’s upscale hotels and sits at the top of the Hyatt food chain.
Stephen Ansell, Managing Director, Hyatt, Middle East and Africa, said that the group is excited to launch the third Park Hyatt branded hotel in Africa.
“With 31 rooms, the hotel is set to offer guests an unparalleled, personalised experience that combines modern comforts with timeless sophistication,” said Ansell.
Millat said that the hotel’s architecture is a contemporary interpretation of the elegant colonial homes of the past and centres around a Jacaranda tree.
The hotel’s 31 uniquely styled rooms feature 26 King Bedrooms, two Junior Suites with garden views, one Wellness Suite, one Winston Suite, and one Rosebank Suite.
The rooms will have keyless entry, Egyptian cotton linens, pillow and bath menus, spa-like bathrooms, his and hers granite top basins, and private lounge areas.
The hotel is also set to offer an “extraordinary culinary journey” with three types of fire cooking: barbecue grill, slow oven, and high oven. Guests can also watch the chef’s work.
Park Hyatt Johannesburg is set to cater to business and leisure travellers.
International brands coming to South Africa
Park Hyatt is not the only hotel brand to come to Rosebank; hotel chain Hyde launched in the area in September 2024.
Hyde has 131 guest rooms and a spacious gym, based above the famous Proud Mary Restaurant.
Looking beyond hotels, Millat is also bringing the popular British coffee chain Pret a Manger to South Africa.
Millat signed an exclusive licence to operate Pret stores in Southern Africa, and it is set to offer customers easy access to organic and sustainable food.
The first store is set to launch in Johannesburg, and more stores will open in Cape Town, Durban, and Pretoria.
Staying in retail, the Foschini Group (TFG) will also bring popular United Kingdom-based JD Sports to South Africa this year. The sports retailers sell their private labels, including Pink Soda and Supply & Demand, alongside Nike, Adidas, and Puma.
TFG hopes to open 40 JD stores in South Africa over the next five years.
In the travel space, Norwegian airline Norse Atlantic Airways will start offering a route that connects London Gatwick Airport with Cape Town International Airport. The new route from Norse Atlantic took off on Tuesday, 29 October 2024.
– Source: businesstech.co.za |
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| YUM! CAPE TOWN VOTED BEST CITY IN THE WORLD FOR FOOD |
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| It’s official: Cape Town has been crowned the best city in the world for food, as voted by readers in the 2024 “Condé Nast” Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards. |
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With a tantalising score of 95.65, the Mother City has secured its place as a culinary capital, dazzling food lovers with its rich tapestry of flavours and gastronomic experiences.
Diverse and delectable, Cape Town‘s food scene is a feast for the senses. Drawing influences from African, Dutch, Malay, and Indian cuisines, the city is a melting pot where unique flavours harmonise. From the bold spices of Cape Malay curries to the hearty Dutch-inspired potjies and the fragrant Indian biryanis, each dish tells a story of the people calling the city home. |
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Whether you are savouring staples like braaivleis paired with traditional African dishes such as pap (maize porridge) and samp, or indulging in fresh seafood by the waterfront, every bite reflects the city’s diverse cultural heritage.
The rankings for the top food cities in the world are:
- Cape Town, South Africa: Score 95.65
- Milan, Italy: Score 95.20
- Valencia, Spain: Score 95.00
- Tokyo, Japan: Score 94.78
- Porto, Portugal: Score 94.48
- Hong Kong, China: Score 93.94
- Bangkok, Thailand: Score 93.71
- Rome, Italy: Score 93.33
- Singapore: Score 92.90
- Sydney, Australia: Score 92.50
While these cities bring their own culinary flair—think sushi, risotto, and chilli crab—Cape Town’s blend of cultures and flavours takes the cake, literally and figuratively. The city serves up not just food but a whole experience, inviting locals and visitors alike to explore its diverse offerings.
“We are thrilled to be recognised as the best city in the world for food,” said Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape Town Tourism. “This accolade reflects the passion and innovation of our chefs and food artisans, who always raise the bar when it comes to exceptional dining. Cape Town isn’t just a destination—it’s a food lover’s dream, ready to be savoured!”
Echoing this sentiment, Alderman James Vos, the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, expressed his enthusiasm for the city’s culinary achievements:
“Our ranking as the number one city in the world for food is a sumptuous and sizzling affirmation of what locals have long known: that Cape Town is a cuisine capital! Our love and appreciation of our vast array of cultures is made evident on the plate and the palate. Whether you’re looking for fine dining options or need some street grub, the Mother City has it all and more! Congratulations to every person who makes our foodie scene stand out above the rest of the world.”
Considered one of the most respected awards in the travel industry, the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards are determined by millions of travellers who share their experiences, rating destinations and services considering factors such as quality, service, and overall experience. These awards celebrate excellence in travel and tourism, highlighting the best in the world based on genuine traveller feedback. The accolades are a trusted guide for those seeking exceptional global travel experiences.
– Source: www.sapeople.com |
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| CAPE TOWN IS AFRICA’S LEADING CITY DESTINATION FOR THE FOURTH TIME |
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| Once again, Cape Town has solidified its reputation as a global hotspot by snagging the coveted World Travel Awards accolade: Africa’s Leading City Destination. |
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This marks Cape Town’s fourth year wearing the crown and follows other exciting news for South Africa from the World Travel Awards, including three of our hotels earning top destination accolades.
The Port of Cape Town also shares the spotlight after being named Africa’s Leading Cruise Port, while Hotel Vrede was deemed the continent’s Leading Green Hotel. Cape Grace won Africa’s Leading Luxury Hotel, while One&Only claimed Africa’s Leading Luxury Resort.
All around, it’s quite the trove of achievements that reflect Cape Town’s status as the gateway to the continent.
“Winning Africa’s Leading City Destination 2024 for the fourth year in a row is a reflection of the exceptional efforts put into promoting the city as a premier travel destination,” reflects Enver Duminy, the CEO of Cape Town Tourism.
“Cape Town’s wins at the World Travel Awards reaffirm our consistent drive in maintaining and growing awareness of this incredible city. These accolades prove the success of our work in keeping Cape Town top of mind for every type of traveller all over the world. To every person working in the travel industry and to all the Capetonians who make this city stand out above all others, thank you,” adds a very proud Alderman James Vos.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| HISTORIC FIRST: AFRICA HOSTS INCLUSIVE HEALTH RESEARCH AWARDS |
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| This October, the Inclusive Health Research Awards (IHRA) was hosted for the first time in Africa at Stellenbosch University, marking a significant milestone for the continent. |
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The two-day event, which concluded on Thursday, 24 October 2024, spotlighted the continent's growing role in global, inclusive health research and offered a platform to highlight innovative solutions and foster collaboration.
The event highlighted Africa's successes in science and health research, particularly lessons learnt from the COVID-19 response and other infectious diseases. It emphasised the continent’s capacity for healthcare innovation and the crucial role of equitable collaboration between researchers and participants, as demonstrated in HIV and AIDS research.
By hosting the IHRA, Africa gained the necessary spotlight to advance homegrown solutions and some level of self-sufficiency in healthcare. It is a platform for the continent to promote and facilitate the agenda for an integrated working approach between the global North and within the global South. |
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African researchers are innovators, and the conference and awards ceremony provided a platform to bring its voices to the global village square.
It was an opportunity to spotlight and display innovative research and health initiatives that involve close collaboration with patients and originated here on the continent, which should prove its capabilities to the global health science and economic communities.
Celebrating African innovation
Spotlighting the work of African scientists and innovators is also what Nature Africa does every day with its coverage.
In driving the global healthcare discourse, one could simply look at the local events of COVID-19, where several solutions were generated locally amidst doubts and fears that the pandemic would decimate the continent.
The continent’s well-coordinated and collaborative approach to confronting the virus is certainly commendable. By combining various layers of response, decentralisation, innovation, and building on existing systems, these crucial techniques helped avert what could have been detrimental.
From Botswana, South Africa, to Nigeria, the distribution of vaccines and sequencing of the virus ensured that Africa survived. This process also relied on collaboration between the global South—led by Africa and the North—an important blueprint for working together.
Advancing health equity
As the IHRA took place on African soil, it gave impetus to the work of equitable health research, to not only celebrate milestones but also to amplify what still needs to be done.
African researchers, innovators, and organisations have demonstrated their dedication to improving health outcomes over the years, and therefore, Africa is a well-poised case study from both a historic and future-looking point of view. It is ready to participate pragmatically to move our world forward. This is especially for the benefit of marginalised and underserved communities of the global South.
This forum also offered the continent a moment to challenge the traditional power dynamics in the global health economy.
If you think of how millions of people from the global South were denied life-saving vaccines at the height of the pandemic in 2021 and also during the current Mpox outbreak, deepening inequality and human suffering, you start to understand the importance of self-dependence for the continent to both prevent and overcome these sorts of health crises.
Building local capacity
There is a need to advance homegrown solutions so that we can be self-sufficient.
Another important aspect to highlight is the idea of equitable collaboration between researchers, patients, and local communities impacted by research. I believe that we can achieve more in medical sciences and research when we are deliberately getting communities and patients actively involved.
Think about how HIV and AIDS research was conducted. We included people living with HIV to better understand their realities. This approach helped us produce solutions that work, helping Africa and the world deal with the epidemic as effectively as possible.
The event brought together leading scientists and health researchers from across the world to discuss how to improve health outcomes for all of society.
The aim was to create an inclusive health-research ecosystem where expertise is shared, where mentoring continues, local resources are utilised, and we inspire the next generation of researchers.
The IRHA was an important moment for inclusive health-research development and to highlight the role of the African continent in this work.
Several winners were celebrated at the IHRA: Kelsey Chapman for the Dignity Project, which enhances health outcomes for individuals with disabilities through inclusive research practices. Mark Faghy led the Profiling the Determinants of Long COVID project at the University of Derby, focussing on patient-relevant research questions.
Finally, the Rise Study by Monica Malta at the University of Toronto supports sexual and gender minorities in Brazil by mapping violence and providing crisis support and entrepreneurship training.
– Source: www.bizcommunity.com |
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| MZANSI PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOWCASE SHOTS IN NEW YORK CITY |
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| From capturing public life through the lens to visuals that restructure narratives surrounding the African Diaspora, photographers around the world are coming together in international spaces to have important visual conversations. Excitingly, Mzansi photographers are a part of these conversations thanks to two exciting showcases in New York City. |
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The International Centre of Photography (the world’s leading institution when it comes to visual culture) has unveiled We Are Here: Scenes from the Streets to New York City. It’s a thought-provoking visual dive that offers an opportunity to reframe our perceptions of street life as experienced from sixteen countries and shot by more than 30 photographers from Mexico to Egypt.
We Are Here offers a series of glimpses into street culture, its various beats, styles and diversity, as well as how these factors have historically shaped communities and eras. From Chinatown in the 90s to a bride on the move in Cairo and New Yorkers clutching their dreams on a zebra crossing, the visuals take us on a journey of humans being human beings over the past 50 years.
From the eyes of South Africa, Mzansi photographers Trevor Stuurman and Nontsikelelo Veleko are part of the We Are Here showcase, which is a prestigious opportunity.
Trevor Stuurman from the series A Day in Dakar, 2023
Honing in on Africa across the world is Points of Resonance: Contemporary Photography in Africa, which features the work of 12 African artists, including South Africa’s Lebohang Kganye and Nonbukho Nqaba, as presented at the African Centre on Fifth Avenue.
Nobukho Nqaba: Untitled 10
The collective of work (co-curated by Heba Farrid and Zein Khalifa) explores cultural transcendence and transformation, confronting themes of identity in a world rife with colonial impact while imagining what the future could look like both in terms of aspirations and challenges in an Africa that has roots all over the world.
Points of Resonance is on until 12 January 2025, while We Are Here is on view until 6 January 2025.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| RESHAPING SCIENCE TO COMBAT HUNGER THROUGH COLLABORATIVE EFFORTS |
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| By fostering collaboration and innovation, the FSNet-Africa research project is reshaping the way we think about food systems to tackle hunger and create a sustainable future for all. |
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World Food Day was observed just last week, forcing us to pause and acknowledge the disheartening realities of hunger, poverty and food insecurity in our country and beyond.
In a world where hunger and malnutrition are persistent challenges, the FSNet-Africa project is a beacon of hope for many battling to put food on the table.
This groundbreaking flagship project, led by the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA), brings together researchers, policymakers, farmers, and stakeholders from across the globe to address the complex issue of food insecurity.
“The FSNet-Africa project aims to bring together researchers from various disciplines to explore how food can be produced in a way that is sustainable, affordable and accessible to everyone,” says Professor Frans Swanepoel, Future Africa Research Chair for Sustainable Food Systems at the University of Pretoria (UP).
“It views the complexity of food security holistically, linking academics from multiple disciplines and, importantly, with non-academic stakeholders to create knowledge and move from knowledge to action.” |
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FSNet-Africa 1.0 was led by UP, the University of Leeds, and the Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy Analysis Network (FANRPAN).
This collaboration between 10 African universities in six countries, one global North institution and seven in-country node partners saw more than 80 researchers collaborate on 20 transdisciplinary research projects.
Each team consisted of a fellow, an African mentor, a United Kingdom mentor, and a researcher at UP. These teams worked with stakeholders such as members of government, farmers and NGOs to design and implement projects.
Five of the FSNet-Africa fellows are participating in FSNet-Africa 1.5, through which they will expand their projects, and be mentored by Dr Elizabeth Mkandawire, network and research manager of FSNet-Africa.
By fostering collaboration and innovation, FSNet-Africa is reshaping the way we think about food systems.
One fellow developed nutritious recipes from an indigenous crop, and she will collaborate with a women’s association to train communities in preparing this food.
Another fellow will train farmers on using moringa in chicken feed to reduce antibiotic use. This can reduce antimicrobial resistance and improve human health.
Yet another fellow developed an app to help small-scale farmers use the right amounts of fertiliser to save on their input costs and improve yield.
As the project enters its next phase, the future of food security in Africa looks brighter than ever.
The FSNet-Africa 1.5 team is conceptualising FSNet-Africa 2.0 and identifying funding opportunities.
“Through food, the FSNet-Africa project brings together researchers and stakeholders across multiple disciplines, countries and continents to work together to achieve zero hunger in Africa,” says Prof. Swanepoel.
“FSNet-Africa is more than a project; it is a culture that is embedded in ubuntu, aiming to reshape how we do science in a way that is meaningful and has a beneficial impact on local, national, continental and global communities.”
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| PEBBLES PROJECT’S DOCUMENTARY A FINALIST AT FILM FEST IN LONDON |
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| The non-profit organisation, the Pebbles Project, is celebrating a victory in the world of filmmaking after their impact film and documentary “Kindness” was selected as a finalist for the 2024 Big Syn International Film Festival in London. |
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Kindness was created in celebration of the organisation’s 20th birthday, a marker of two decades of positive impact in the lives of children in local farming communities.
Completed in early August, the documentary quickly garnered attention and was awarded the “Best Documentary” from the KleinKaap Short Film Festival.
Its nomination as a finalist in the world’s largest sustainability film festival speaks volumes to the power of local stories. Set to be evaluated by a grand jury that consists of Oscar and Emmy winners along with other influential parties, the opportunity is one of incredible value that all South Africans can be inspired by.
Meet the Pebbles Project
Established in 2004, the Pebbles Project has spent the past two decades providing support across a spectrum of areas to children and families in farming communities.
These include areas of education, health, nutrition and social protection, as well Early Childhood Development Centres and after-school clubs; all of which help bridge gaps of opportunity in a bid to create a more prosperous future for communities that are often overlooked.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| MISS SOUTH AFRICA MIA LE ROUX READY TO SHINE AT MISS UNIVERSE WITH POWERFUL MESSAGE |
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| Miss South Africa Mia le Roux says she has given it her all in her preparations ahead of the 73rd Miss Universe pageant to be held in Mexico City, Mexico, on Saturday, 16 November 2024. |
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She was speaking at her farewell, which was held at The Maslow Hotel in Sandton with her parents in attendance.
Le Roux also showed off some of the special outfits created for her to wear during her time in Mexico by Africa Fashion International (AFI), which is the official fashion sponsor for Miss South Africa 2024. AFI has been a catalyst for progress in African fashion since it was founded in 2007 by Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe. |
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Says Dr Moloi-Motsepe: “This partnership between AFI and the Miss South Africa Organisation, both under the Motsepe Group of Companies, is a reflection of our commitment to celebrating African talent and showcasing it to a global audience.
“AFI Atelier’s wardrobe for Mia at Miss Universe showcases our core values of innovation, excellence and a passion for craftsmanship. Through this synergy, we are reinforcing our dedication to empowering women while shining a spotlight on Africa’s rising influence in global fashion, of which Miss Universe is a great platform for both.”
The two outfits shown at the event—both by the AFI Atelier designers—will be worn by Le Roux in the days leading to the finale.
Le Roux says she was looking forward to representing South Africa at Miss Universe: “The Miss South African Organisation team and I have been working on every aspect so I can be an elevated version of myself,” she told the gathered audience. “I feel incredibly proud and honoured by this opportunity and privilege that have been entrusted to me. I cannot wait to highlight the beautiful diversity of our country and show that it is our biggest strength.”
She says she is trying not to feel too much pressure as she walks in the footsteps of previous Miss South Africa title holders on the Miss Universe stage and as the first-ever deaf contestant to compete.
“I try to view this as the opportunity and experience of a lifetime where my voice can be heard and I can hopefully help to shine a light upon the blind spots of our world while carrying my beautiful country within my heart. I believe my advantage is that I have a powerful story that needs to be heard. Someone once said that I did well with Miss South Africa because of the struggle I represent. But I say I did well because of the victory I represent and I believe that is my advantage.
“My parents were unsure if I would ever speak and now I am using the very same voice to be heard like I have never been heard before. I am speaking for every excluded individual out there with the goal to bring a future of hope and opportunity to them. I am going to do my best to make them, and all South Africans, proud.”
She will also continue to shine the spotlight on her Miss South Africa advocacy campaign Mia Le Roux’s Movement, where she will be working with government, big corporations and NGOs to raise money for cochlear implants and continue promoting inclusivity among a number of projects.
– Source: www.thenewspaper.co.za |
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| MARGARET GARDINER JOINS JUDGING PANEL FOR MISS UNIVERSE 2024 |
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| The ever-glamorous and formidable force that is Margaret Gardiner is set to join the judging panel for the Miss Universe 2024 pageant later this year in a full-circle moment for her and South Africa. |
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Back in the late 1970s, Margaret Gardiner made history when she became the first South African to win the coveted Miss Universe crown while she was still a teenager. Now, decades later, she will be judging a new generation of Miss Universe hopefuls in the very same country where she won her crown—Mexico.
Gardiner may have made history, but her story hardly ended in the history books. Instead, she went on to contribute four decades of influence in and beyond the realms of beauty and entertainment through her career as a journalist and advocate for social rights and women’s rights.
Here, she built up a fantastic reputation and unique insight into the challenges women face against glamorous backgrounds. Much of her insight is set to be unpacked in her upcoming book, Damaged Beauty: Joey Superstar, which is set to hit shelves early next year and is described to be an exploration of the hidden struggles faced by women in a thought-provoking and powerful narrative. |
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As for her role in the Miss Universe pageant, she shares that it’s an honour to “empower and change the life of a young woman.”
The Miss Universe pageant praised her selection, adding that “her elegance, experience, and knowledge in the entertainment and beauty industry make her an iconic and respected figure in the world of international beauty. Her legacy inspires a new generation of women.
Miss Universe will be taking place on 16 November 2024, in Mexico City.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| A-LIST CELEBS TO ATTEND THE EARTHSHOT PRIZE IN CAPE TOWN |
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| Some of the world’s most influential artists, athletes, musicians, and advocates will join The Earthshot Prize in Cape Town this November to spotlight inspiring environmental solutions to repair and regenerate the planet. |
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From 4 to 7 November 2024, Earthshot Week will celebrate this year’s 15 Earthshot Prize Finalists from across the globe and highlight the growth of inspiring climate innovations across the African continent.
The week will culminate with the annual Earthshot Prize Awards on 6 November, where five of the 2024 Earthshot Prize Finalists will each win a GBP£1 million award to help grow their impact and support efforts to speed their solutions to scale. |
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Actor, humanitarian, and Earthshot Global Ambassador Nomzamo Mbatha will serve as the official host for Earthshot Week.
She will be joined by fellow Earthshot Global Ambassador and Australian conservationist and wildlife photographer Robert Irwin across a series of thought leadership events and high-level dialogues, bringing current and former Earthshot Prize Finalists together with influential environmental champions who can support and accelerate their scaling journeys.
The fourth annual Earthshot Prize Awards will be hosted by Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Award winner Billy Porter and award-winning television presenter Bonang Matheba.
The night will include extraordinary storytelling and musical performances to celebrate the work of global environmental innovators and spotlight the creativity and innovation across African countries.
In addition to featuring the stories of The Earthshot Prize Finalists and Winners, the broadcast will include special performances and appearances from exciting musical artists and celebrities across East, West, Northern, Southern, and South Africa, as well as a host of international stars, including Grammy-nominated artist and producer Davido, award-winning, internationally renowned artist Diamond Platnumz, Tony Award nominee and Grammy Award Winner Lebo M, supported by the internationally acclaimed Ndlovu Youth Choir, and international headlining DJ and producer Uncle Waffles.
Supermodel and television host Heidi Klum, actor and activist Nina Dobrev, multi-hyphenate artist and actor Tobe Nwigwe, and supermodel and beauty entrepreneur Winnie Harlow will join the broadcast to announce the five prize winners from each Earthshot category, which correspond to critical environmental goals we must meet within this decade.
The five finalists are: Protect and Restore Nature, Clean Our Air, Revive Our Oceans, Build A Waste-Free World, and Fix Our Climate.
“It’s a privilege to co-host The Earthshot Prize Awards. I am excited to celebrate these incredible innovators who are making a significant impact on our planet, as well as highlight the vibrant spirit, resilience, and unwavering commitment of environmental leaders across Africa and from around the world,” said Bonang Matheba.
Reaching millions of viewers, The Earthshot Prize Awards will broadcast in 50 markets across the African continent.
A special live green carpet pre-show, hosted by media personality Ebuka Obi-Uchendu and rapper and TV presenter Moozlie, will also be livestreamed globally via The Earthshot Prize’s YouTube channel.
Founded by Prince William in 2020, The Earthshot Prize has become a powerful global search engine unearthing the best environmental solutions and a platform for impact to catalyse critical investment and resources towards these solutions.
Sixty environmental solutions have been honoured as Prize Finalists and Winners since 2020, and more than 2 500 solutions have been introduced to Earthshot through our network of more than 400 Official Nominators.
The Prize has also helped unlock more than £75 million in direct and in-kind support for these solutions, with ambitions to continue growing our ability to drive investment and support for emerging solutions.
Both finalists and winners receive dedicated mentorship, resources and technical support to help accelerate the growth of their solution during the year-long Earthshot Prize Fellowship Programme.
The programme includes access to the Prize’s robust network of influential businesses, investors and climate experts, including the Earthshot Prize’s Global Alliance of Partners, comprised of some of the world’s largest businesses, donors, investors and environmental organisations committed to climate action.
– Source: www.thesouthafrican.com |
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| COETZE TAKES HIS 2024 WORLD CUP GOLDS TO FIVE |
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| Team SA swimmer Pieter Coetze was again among the medals as the second leg of the 2024 World Aquatics Swimming World Cup concluded in Incheon, South Korea, on Saturday, 26 October 2024. |
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Having won eight medals in Shanghai a week earlier, a further five were added to that tally in Incheon to take it to 13, spread across three swimmers: Coetze (seven), Rebecca Meder (four), and Chad Le Clos (two).
Coetze doubled up on the 100m backstroke gold that he won last week in Shanghai when he touched 49.35, which was a lifetime best national short-course record. In Incheon on Saturday evening, he was slightly off that mark but still went under 50 seconds again in taking gold in 49.93, seeing off Kacper Stokowski of Poland (50.17). |
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There is one remaining leg in the series after the meets in Shanghai and Incheon. Singapore plays host this coming week.
South Africa’s medals after two of the three legs:
Gold (five)
- Pieter Coetze (50m backstroke, 100m backstroke x2, 200m backstroke x 2).
Silver (three)
- Pieter Coetze (50m backstroke)
- Chad Le Clos (100m, 200m butterfly).
Bronze (five)
- Pieter Coetze (men’s 100m freestyle x 2)
- Rebecca Meder (100m breaststroke)
- Rebecca Meder (200m breaststroke)
- Rebecca Meder (200m individual medley).
– Source: www.teamsa.co.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN SAILOR IN DISBELIEF AFTER WORLD SAILING AWARDS NOMINATION |
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| Vuyisile Jaca made history at the beginning of the year when she was part of the first all-female crew to win the around-the-world Ocean Globe Race, also being the first African black woman to do so. |
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The KwaMashu-born sailor and her crew raced around the world in 153 days, two hours, 16 minutes, and 53 seconds.
Speaking to SABC Sport, Jaca says she’s thrilled by her nomination.
“Unbelievable, I look at the nomination list every morning just to see if it really is me, they didn’t make a mistake. I don’t even have the words to explain the excitement and how grateful I am to be nominated," said Jaca.
"It’s not just any nomination but the World Sailing Awards. The nomination on its own feels like a win for me. I wish my parents were still alive to witness this."
Jaca, who fell in love with sailing when she was still in high school, having been introduced to the sport by a non-profit organisation called Sail Africa.
Statistics South Africa recently released the latest stats on youth unemployment being at 45%, and the 25-year-old—like many of her peers—is among those without a stable job, and her focus is to work in the sailing industry.
"I’ve been trying to get myself back to being a normal land person [laughs]. It has been quite challenging. I've sailed the Vasco da Gama Race, MSC and Tuzi Tekwini race, but I have been struggling to get myself employed as I don’t have a source of income," she noted.
"But I’m still trying to work my way to getting more opportunities in the industry."
She believes through hard work she still has a lot to achieve in the industry and hopes girls who also want to be in the sailing industry will follow in her footsteps.
“Believe in yourself. Grab every opportunity as you never know what the future holds, it might be your breakthrough. Don’t be scared to do something different, it is good to give yourself a challenge.
"You are capable of achieving greatness don’t let the negative energy get to you. It is possible black child," Jaca concluded.
– Source: www.msn.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICA’S ALDRICH POTGIETER MAKES HISTORY AS SECOND YOUNGEST TO EARN PGA TOUR CARD |
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| South Africa’s Aldrich Potgieter on Sunday, 27 October 2024, became the second youngest-ever to earn a United States (US) PGA Tour card via the Korn Ferry Tour (KFT) money list. |
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The 20-year-old Potgieter finished 29th on the KFT money list, with the top-30 earning playing privileges for next season on the PGA Tour. The KFT is the secondary golf tour in the US.
Former world number one, Jason Day of Australia, remains the youngest player to earn his PGA Tour card through the KFT and was 19 when he achieved the feat.
Having turned 20 last month, Potgieter already made headlines on the KFT when he became the youngest winner in the tour’s history at 19 years, four months, and 11 days when he won the Bahamas Great Abaco Classic.
The powerfully built Potgieter led the driving distance on the KFT this season, with his average driving distance standing at a staggering 336.5 yards (307.69m).
Also among his growing list of achievements is the 59 he shot in the Astara Golf Championship earlier this season while still a teenager.
Like fellow South African golf star Louis Oosthuizen, who won the Open Championship in 2010, Potgieter also hails from Mossel Bay.
He is also no stranger to making headlines, as he won the 127th Amateur Championship at Royal Lytham & St Annes in 2022. This is an incredible feat for any amateur golfer, but the fact that Potgieter was 17 at the time made it even more incredible.
Courtesy of that win in the Amateur Championship, Potgieter earned invites to the 2022 Open Championship, 2023 Masters and 2023 US Open.
Looking ahead to the 2024/2025 season on the PGA Tour, South African fans now have another reason to stay glued to their TV screens in the early hours of the morning every weekend as Potgieter promises to make more headlines.
– Source: www.iol.co.za |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN MASTERS MAKE HOCKEY HISTORY: FIRST-EVER WORLD CUP GOLD |
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The South African Masters O40 Men’s Team has just brought home our country’s first-ever gold medal at the Masters Hockey World Cup, defeating Australia 3-1 in a gripping final that showed the world what South African grit and heart are made of.
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In an electrifying final match, they battled Australia and emerged victorious, winning 3-1 in a contest that had fans on the edge of their seats. It was a day that will go down in history as a landmark moment for South African sports.
The news of this incredible victory was shared with pride on the official South African Masters Hockey social media pages. The message was brimming with excitement and admiration.
“GOLD for our MO40 team! South Africa’s first gold at the World Masters Hockey World Cup, and we couldn’t be more excited! A massive congratulations to these legends who played with heart and determination. This is just the beginning!”
The rise of South African Masters Hockey on the international stage reflects years of dedication. Every tournament showcases the talent and the dedication of our players, coaches, and support teams. And while this gold medal is a historic achievement, it’s also a promising start for even more remarkable feats to come as Masters Hockey in South Africa continues to grow.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN WOMEN STRIKE GOLD IN HISTORIC HOCKEY WIN |
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| South Africa’s Masters WO35 hockey team has shattered records and captured hearts, bringing home the gold in a historic victory that will be celebrated for generations. |
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In a thrilling and unforgettable performance, the South African Masters Women’s Over 35 (WO35) hockey team has secured a historic victory, clinching gold at the Masters Hockey World Cup 2024.
This incredible achievement is the result of pure dedication, passion, and a love for the game that has driven these talented women to triumph on the world stage.
After a fierce match-up, South Africa scored an impressive 3-0 win against Germany’s WO35 team in the quarterfinals, showcasing unstoppable skill and determination. They then went on to beat the Netherlands in the final.
“The over-35 women have won the Masters Hockey World Cup, defeating the Netherlands 4-1 in the final!”
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The exciting news has lit up social media, with the official South African Masters Hockey account sharing the team’s incredible achievement with followers around the world:
“Our WO35 ladies showed unmatched grit and resilience, bringing home gold! What an incredible journey it’s been for this team. You’ve made South Africa proud!”
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com
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| SOUTH AFRICAN AERIAL ATHLETES SOAR TO NEW HEIGHTS AT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP |
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| South Africa’s Aerial Sports team has once again ascended to new heights on the global stage. Representing the nation at the World Aerial Art Championship in Greece, the small but mighty team returned home with gold and bronze medals. |
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Showcasing their agility, skills, and indomitable spirit at the World Aerial Art Championship in Athens, Greece, the small but dynamic Aerial Sports South Africa team brought their A-game and secured gold and bronze medals.
Leading the charge was the young sensation, Stella van Durren. At just eight years old, Stella has already captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with her graceful and mesmerising performances.
Securing a gold medal in the Hoop Varsity Junior Amateur division, Van Durren’s victory was a testament to her natural ability and countless hours of practice.
Reflecting on her experience, she shared.
“I love hoop because there are so many beautiful moves to learn. When I’m up on the hoop, it feels like I’m flying. Competing in the world championship was nerve-wracking, but so exciting! It was such fun being on a big stage, and I was so happy after my performance!”
Van Durren’s mother expressed the overwhelming pride she felt watching her daughter shine:
“Watching my daughter perform on the world stage was surreal. I felt such pride, joy, and a little disbelief seeing my little girl, who dances in our living room, now captivating the world. It was nothing short of magical!” |
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Her coach echoed these sentiments, saying:
“I am beyond proud of Stella for stepping onto the world stage. From her very first performance to this incredible moment, watching her grow into the strong and graceful athlete she is today has been one of the greatest rewards of being her coach. Regardless of the gold medal, her courage and dedication make her a true champion.”
Renate Steynberg, another South African athlete, also made her mark at the championship, securing a bronze medal in the Hoop Masters 40+ Amateur division.
Steynberg has been pole dancing for a few years now and started Lyra after having a class gifted to her.
“I was hooked from the very first nauseating spin. Very often, the time I spend training is the only time in the day when my mind is still—there is no space for noise. I am too busy trying to figure out where my left leg is when I’m upside down and spinning in circles.”
The athlete recalls how her coach convinced her to participate in the SA Nationals, which led her making it to Greece—something she’d never anticipated but has now sparked her determination to go even harder next year.
“What started as a joke earlier this year about going to Worlds turned into a serious commitment and dedication,” Steynberg’s coach shared.
“Watching her journey from that playful idea to standing proudly with a bronze medal has been nothing short of inspiring.”
Chantal Cornelissen, President of Aerial Sports South Africa, expressed immense pride in seeing the country’s athletes shine on the world stage.
“Watching our athletes dominate internationally is a testament to their hard work and dedication, and it fills me with excitement as our sport continues to grow,” she shared.
With the Pole and Aerial Sport World Championship and Pole Art Championship coming up at the end of November and early December, Cornelissen remains hopeful but acknowledges the ongoing challenges.
“We are constantly struggling with funding to support our athletes getting to these events, yet their talent and passion deserve to be showcased on the global stage.
“The team’s success in Greece has brought pride to their community and serves as an inspiration for the growing aerial sports scene in South Africa.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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| SOUTH AFRICAN RACING PRODIGY ZACH FOURIE SET FOR F4 RACE DEBUT AT LIGIER JSF4 CHAMPIONSHIP |
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| Zach Fourie is about to make his mark on the international racing scene. After honing his skills in kart racing, the teen will be competing in the 2024 season finale of the Ligier JSF4 Championship. |
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Johannesburg-born teen Zach Fourie has come a long way from kart racing. He is now set to make his race debut competing on the JENSEN F4 team at the 2024 season finale of the Ligier JSF4 Championship at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.
Eager to take on the racing track as a member of the JENSEN F4 team, Zach said he couldn’t wait to hit the tarmac.
“I have worked really hard to get here. The nerves will kick in, but it’s good to be nervous. As my parents always say, nerves show that it means something. And this means a whole lot to me. I want to race well and try to secure some sponsors so that I can continue this journey. But I also just want to have fun,” he shared.
He also thanked and acknowledged his parents for making the opportunity possible for him as well as his younger brother for taking the back seat over the last couple of months as he goes after his dreams.
“If you have a dream, follow it. It is possible with the love and support of those around you,” shares a grateful Zach.
Beaming with pride is his number one supporter and mother, Leisl-Mae Fourie, who has always been proud of her son’s dedication and commitment to anything he puts his mind to.
“The leap from GoKarts to F4 has been huge. It has been a steep learning curve, but even at 15, he has handled it with grace and perseverance. Many hours studying various racetracks, simulator practice and physical training in and out of the car.”
Leisl-Mae shared that when Zach was a lot younger, people brushed off his desire of wanting to be a racing driver, but his tenacity has proven that he does indeed have what it takes.
As Zach prepares to hit the track, Leisl-Mae is filled with both excitement and anxiety, reflecting the intense emotions she feels when watching him excel in other sports, such as cricket and soccer, at school.
“As a family, we could not be prouder of Zach. No matter the outcome of the race in Austin, we want him to enjoy it, revel in the excitement, and have a safe race,” the proud parent shared.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
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