| |
| |
|
| |
| SOUTH AFRICA’S NATURAL RESOURCES CAN DRIVE INCLUSIVE GROWTH: PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA |
|
| |
 |
|
| President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa’s tourism sector, largely underpinned by its natural endowments, has great potential to drive inclusive growth. |
|
|
| |
“As the festive season makes way for the start of the new year, many South Africans have been returning home from different parts of the country. Some people have been visiting family, while others have been exploring new places.
“This is a time of year when we get to appreciate why our country is such an attractive destination for visitors. We are blessed with natural splendour that is an integral part of our national heritage. It is an asset to our economy that every year draws millions of tourists from around the world to our shores,” the President said in his newsletter to the nation on Monday, 13 January 2025.
Over the past week, the President was in the Western Cape and visited Robben Island, which is one of the country’s major tourism attractions. A leading industry publication recently ranked Robben Island, alongside Table Mountain and the Kruger National Park, as among the top tourist attractions on the continent.
Beyond the substantial natural resource endowments of the beaches, national parks and biodiversity conservation areas, cultural and heritage tourism is also thriving in South Africa.
“We are home to 12 United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites. These include Robben Island and the Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng, which has among the largest known concentrations of Hominid fossils in the world.
“Last year, the World Economic Forum ranked South Africa as Africa’s premier tourism destination. It said this was due to factors such as our business operating environment, information technology and tourism infrastructure and services,” President Ramaphosa said.
Following a slump in tourism numbers as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, inbound tourism is on the rise. In 2023, South Africa recorded around 8.5 million international tourist arrivals. These visitors spent over R95 billion.
Domestic tourism is the mainstay of the tourism economy. Between January and July last year, South Africans took over 21 million trips to explore their country.
President Ramaphosa said the tourism sector has the potential to be even larger than it currently is.
“We are scaling up a range of tourism promotion strategies to restore inbound tourism figures to pre-pandemic levels. These strategies include an improved tourism visa regime, streamlining the tour operator license process, increased investment in tourism infrastructure and services, and improving safety and security at tourism sites.”
The tourism sector in South Africa employs about 1.5 million people, both directly and indirectly. Through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, South Africa continues to support job creation by providing work opportunities for young people as tourism monitors in different provinces and supporting tourism-related small, medium and micro enterprises.
Tourism is a growth area for small business development. In line with the global shift towards sustainability, figures from South African Tourism show that increasing numbers of new tourism ventures are centred around sustainable tourism and eco-friendly business practices.
This year, South Africa will host the first-ever summit of the Group of Twenty (G20) on African soil.
“We will use this opportunity to profile and actively promote South Africa as a tourism destination of choice,” President Ramaphosa said.
According to the United Nations Tourism, the G20 economies represent over 70% of all international tourist arrivals worldwide and 82% of tourism’s global gross domestic product. Just as Brazil did last year during its hosting of the G20 Summit, South Africa will promote the role of tourism in creating jobs and advancing sustainable development in the countries of the global South.
The Government of National Unity has identified the growth of tourism as a vital part of creating employment. In October last year, the Minister of Tourism released a new White Paper on the Development and Promotion of Tourism in South Africa. This will guide our approach to building a sustainable, competitive and inclusive tourism industry.
“By working together as government, business and communities, we can ensure that the natural splendour of our country becomes a driver of economic growth, job creation and shared prosperity,” the President said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
|
| |
|
| |
| PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA ATTENDS THE PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION IN MOZAMBIQUE |
|
| |
| President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Maputo on 15 January 2025, to attend the inauguration of the President-Elect of the Republic of Mozambique, His Excellency Daniel Chapo, following the Presidential, Legislative and Provincial Elections, which were held in Mozambique on 9 October 2024. |
|
|
 |
|
| |
The inauguration of President-Elect Chapo provides an opportunity for all the people of Mozambique to work together towards peace, democracy and development.
President Ramaphosa is looking forward to working closely with President-Elect Chapo in further strengthening the existing strong fraternal relations between the two countries and looks forward to seeing Mozambicans come together in the spirit of unity and cooperation as they build a brighter future.
President Ramaphosa was accompanied by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, and Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.
– Source: www.thepresidency.gov.za |
|
| |
|
| |
| DEPUTY PRESIDENT DELIVERS EULOGY AT FORMER MINISTER'S FUNERAL |
|
| |
| Deputy President Paul Mashatile has described the late democratic South Africa’s first Minister of Education, Professor Sibusiso Bengu, as a “distinguished educator, diplomat, and servant of the people”. |
| |
The Deputy President was delivering the eulogy at Bengu’s funeral service held at the University of Zululand in KwaZulu-Natal on Friday, 10 January 2025.
Bengu passed away in December at the age of 90 and was afforded a Special Official Funeral Category 2.
“Today we gather to pay tribute to a remarkable individual, Professor Sibusiso Bengu, a renowned revolutionary, an intellectual of his time. As a country, we have lost a distinguished educator, diplomat, and servant of the people. |
|
|
 |
|
| |
“Professor Bengu has played a key role in shaping education and other social policies, contributing to the transformation of the sector and, most importantly, reversing the legacy of apartheid education,” Deputy President Mashatile said.
Bengu played a key role in the transformation of South Africa’s education sector following the attainment of democracy and played a role in the transition of higher education in the country.
The Deputy President highlighted this as part of Bengu’s legacy.
“His skills, knowledge, and contribution to various sectors of education showed that he possessed the capacity to revolutionise education by dismantling the dreadful legacies of apartheid.
“Thirty years later, our education outcomes are still improving—a testament to the profound impact of this icon. As part of President [Nelson] Mandela’s cabinet, he introduced many key pieces of legislation that shaped our education system.
“Among these are the South African Schools Act of 1996 and the policy recommendations of the National Commission on Higher Education, which served as a guide for the government’s efforts to reconstruct and transform the apartheid higher education system,” Deputy President Mashatile explained.
The former Minister advocated for understanding the “connection between education and development”.
“We must continue to address challenges related to access to better education. An educated society has better prospects for a better future and breaking the shackles of poverty and injustices.
“Educated populations correspond with national economic growth and both directly and indirectly increase economic productivity.”
Beyond 30 years of freedom
The Deputy President said that as the country now moves beyond 30 years since the attainment of freedom and democracy, government is “going to invest in the speed of policy execution and implementation”.
“This is to ensure that the critical transformation policy contributions made by Professor Bengu are not undermined and that we continue to drive the change that we are pursuing in this sector.
“Our task is to ensure that the state, institutions of higher education, and the private sector will expand the ten growth sectors, which include finance, manufacturing, agriculture, business, and services, among others.
“Our goal is to create much-needed employment while also ensuring that many young people, women, and the most disadvantaged individuals have meaningful participation in the economy. We have also agreed that emerging from the 2024 elections, we are going to focus on growing an inclusive economy and reducing the cost of living,” he said.
Furthermore, Deputy President Mashatile added, government is actively “investing in the building of a developmental, capable, and ethical state that has the capacity to transform society and redirect development to resolve the challenges of poverty, unemployment, and inequality”.
The Deputy President passed his final condolences to the Bengu family on behalf of the government of South Africa.
“As we accompany our leader and brother to his final resting place, may we always remember how Professor Sibusiso Bengu's political efforts have been vital in furthering our democratic values and socio-economic development.
“His passion to promote equality and fairness has had a long-lasting influence on our society, and this should inspire us. To this day many South Africans are still benefiting from his immense contribution, and for this we are grateful.
“Once more, on behalf of the government, let me extend our deepest condolences to Mama Funeka, his children and grandchildren, and the entire Bengu family.”
The Deputy President called on society to follow Bengu’s example and “strive for excellence in everything we do”.
“Let his example guide us and his spirit inspire us to make a positive impact in our country,” he said.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
|
| |
|
| |
| SOUTH AFRICA WELCOMES THE CEASEFIRE AGREEMENT REACHED BETWEEN ISRAEL AND HAMAS |
|
| |
 |
|
| South Africa welcomes the ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Hamas after 15 months of Israel’s genocidal onslaught on Gaza after Hamas and other armed groups launched an attack on Israel. |
|
|
| |
South Africa calls for the implementation of a just and lasting peace that ensures the human rights of both Palestinians and Israelis are protected and promoted. The ceasefire agreement is a crucial first step toward ending the severe humanitarian crisis faced by the 2.3 million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, which the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has deemed to be plausibly genocidal.
The ceasefire must lay the basis for a just peace, which should include the establishment of a contiguous, independent, and viable Palestinian state. Palestinian sovereignty and territorial integrity must be upheld. It is imperative that no land is annexed in either Gaza or the West Bank following the ceasefire and that illegal settlement expansion is halted.
In accordance with the successive rulings of the ICJ, the provisional measures prescribed by the ICJ must be adhered to by the occupying power. International law and humanitarian law must be respected and upheld.
Immediate and massive humanitarian aid is urgently needed to provide relief to civilians in Gaza. All obstacles to the delivery of humanitarian aid must be lifted immediately and unconditionally, allowing civilians unrestricted access to essential food, water, shelter, and healthcare.
– Source: www.dirco.gov.za |
|
| |
|
| |
| SOUTH AFRICA HOSTS G20 FRAMEWORK WORKING GROUP MEETING |
|
| |
| Technical meetings under the Group of Twenty (G20) Finance Track have begun this week with a meeting of the Framework Working Group (FWG). |
|
| |
 |
|
This, after South Africa kicked off its G20 Presidency with the hosting of the G20 Sherpa and Finance Track Meetings in December 2024.
“The National Treasury and the South African Reserve Bank are jointly responsible for overseeing the work of the G20 Finance Track.
“The mandate of the FWG is to promote strong, sustainable, balanced, and inclusive growth and does so by identifying, monitoring, and assessing global macroeconomic risks, vulnerabilities, and uncertainties and recommending suitable policy responses to global shocks and cross-cutting global challenges,” National Treasury said in a statement.
The G20 is a grouping of developed and developing countries that together form a powerful bloc representing at least 85% of the world’s gross domestic product and some 75% of international trade, making the FWG critical. |
|
|
| |
“The first day of the meeting [on Monday focused] on the main headwinds to global growth, ongoing supply and demand risks to inflation, and the main fiscal risks to growth and inflation. It also discussed the economic outlook for Africa.
“The second day [Tuesday] of the meeting discussed the draft FWG work plan for 2025, which includes priority areas identified by the South African Presidency,” the statement continued.
South Africa’s outlined priorities include:
- enhancing global economic resilience in light of growth risks like fragmentation and macroeconomic imbalances
- strengthening macroeconomic foundations and growth reforms in light of climate change
- assessing labour productivity, technological development and demographic change.
This week’s FWG meeting is the first of four to be held.
“The remaining three meetings for this Working Group are scheduled for April, June, and September, in person, in venues across the country.
“The outcomes of these meetings will inform discussions at the meetings of the Finance and Central Bank Deputies and Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors,” the statement concluded.
The G20 Leaders’ Summit is expected to be held in the latter half of 2025.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
|
| |
|
| |
| TIME OUT CROWNS CAPE TOWN THE BEST CITY IN THE WORLD |
|
| |
| Cape Town has been named the Best City in the World by the “Time Out” annual global survey, which gathered insights from over 18 500 locals worldwide with input from more than 100 city experts. |
|
|
 |
|
| |
As one of the most comprehensive surveys of urban life, it came as no surprise that the Mother City claimed the top spot.
When it came time to vote, people couldn’t help but rave about Cape Town’s beauty, vibrant food scene, and overall feel-good vibes.
Moving up from second place last year, the Mother City scored big for its rich history, diverse cultures and endless opportunities to dive into great food, nightlife and nature.
Whether lounging in lush green spaces or soaking up stunning views, it’s clear that Cape Town has it all.
CEO of Cape Town Tourism, Enver Duminy, expressed his gratitude to the people who make the city “extraordinary”.
“Cape Town is a city built on its people’s passion, resilience, and creativity. From bustling markets to serene beaches, every corner of our city tells a story of community and connection,” said Duminy.
“This win celebrates who we are and what we stand for. Starting the year with this amazing accolade is the perfect way to kick off what’s sure to be an epic 2025,” Duminy added.
“This recognition speaks volumes about the incredible spirit of Cape Town. From our stunning landscapes to our awesome communities, it’s no wonder we’re considered the best,” said James Vos, Mayco Member for Economic Growth.
“This is a shared achievement, and we’re excited to continue growing and attracting visitors from around the globe to experience everything we have to offer,” Vos added.
The Top 10 Best Cities in the World:
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Bangkok, Thailand
- New York, United States of America
- Melbourne, Australia
- London, the United Kingdom
- New Orleans, United States of America
- Mexico City, Mexico
- Porto, Portugal
- Shanghai, China
- Copenhagen, Denmark
– Source: www.capetownetc.com |
|
| |
|
| |
| MARS AWARDS: SOUTH AFRICAN RESEARCHER WINS FIRST PLACE |
|
| |
| Dr Nompumelelo Lebogang Malaza from South Africa has earned the prestigious First Position in the Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (Mars) Awards 2024, gaining recognition for her groundbreaking research on the association between biochemical and epigenetic markers with glycaemic control and neonatal outcomes in diabetic pregnancies. |
| |
|
|
|
 |
|
| |
The Mars Awards, in partnership with the International Federation of Fertility Societies (IFFS), the African Reproductive Care Society (ARCS), and Manipal University, celebrated her significant contribution to the field, alongside other researchers from across the continent.
“Since 2016, I have taken immense pride in recognising the achievements of our Mars Awards winners," said Rasha Kelej, chief executive officer of the Merck Foundation and chairperson of the Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit.
Kalej stressed how this recognition underscores the importance of empowering women and youth in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (Stem), with a particular focus on women’s health and reproductive care.
Maternal health pioneer
A researcher at the University of Pretoria, Lebogang-Malaza specialises in maternal and neonatal health, with a focus on diabetic pregnancies, her research contributes to improving maternal and neonatal health, a critical issue in many African countries, while her achievement highlights the vital role of African women researchers in healthcare innovation.
According to the International Diabetes Federation, globally, it is estimated that 21.1 million (16.7%) live births in 2021 were associated with maternal diabetes. Currently, 4.3 million South Africans are living with diabetes, as per the Diabetes Alliance.
Lebogang-Malaza has also authored research works that have been cited in academic literature, reflecting her active engagement in the scientific community.
In addition to Lebogang-Malaza, Dr Dorotheah Obiri from Ghana was awarded Second Position in the same category for her research on immune dysregulation in placental malaria and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Among the Best Young African Researchers, Dr Jules Irenge Mongane from the Democratic Republic of the Congo took First Position, with his research on bacterial vaginosis and infertility.
As part of the Mars Awards, winners will undergo research training at a premier institute in India to further enhance their skills. Furthermore, Merck Foundation has opened applications for the 2025 edition of the Mars Awards, focusing on the critical role of scientific research in advancing women’s health and reproductive care in Africa.
Empowering women's health
Both Lebogang-Malaza and Irenge-Mongane were given opportunities to attend the 11th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary recently held in Tanzania, but only Irenge-Mongane was able to attend it.
The luminary is an annual event organised by the Merck Foundation, aimed at fostering partnerships and knowledge exchange between Africa and Asia in the fields of healthcare and education.
This year, special focus was given to women's health, and the event included discussions on various topics related to improving healthcare systems, particularly in underserved regions. To this end, the event gathered key stakeholders, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and experts.
Lebogang-Malaza's research contributions are accessible through the University of Pretoria's research data portal.
– Source: www.bizcommunity.com |
|
| |
|
| |
| TEEN EXPLORER GOES ON JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY AND CLIMATE CHANGE AWARENESS IN ANTARCTICA |
|
| |
 |
|
| Imagine getting to hike through ice tunnels and sleeping outside at -17°C. L’chelle Bester got to experience it all through a once-in-a-lifetime Antarctic expedition with four other amazing students from around Africa. The experience afforded the teen from KwaZulu-Natal the learning experience of the environment and the interconnectedness of climate change. |
|
|
| |
“Genuinely the most insane experience of my life!”. That is how L’chelle Bester best describes the amazing opportunity to join explorer Riaan Manser on the Students in Antarctica expedition in December 2024.
“The Antarctic landscapes were breathtaking, but the best part of the trip was who I got to share it with,” L’chelle shares.
“Getting to know the other four students selected (from Ghana, Tanzania, Italy, and South Africa) was by far my favourite part. Our diverse backgrounds made for fascinating conversations and many laughs.”
The group travelled with educators comprised of one of the top environmental lawyers in South Africa, a genetic scientist studying sub-Antarctic zooplankton, a decorated documentary filmmaker, an electrical engineer working on making Antarctica solar-powered, an Ichthyology expert who hunts down illegal fishing vessels, as well as Riaan Manser himself, the programme’s founder, who has casually circumnavigated Africa on a bicycle.
“I learnt so much from each of them—each person had astronomical value to offer and left an indelible imprint on me,” recounts L’chelle.
L’chelle’s biggest takeaway from the expedition has been the realisation of how complicated and interconnected climate change problems are.
“No problem can be solved in isolation—it’s all part of a system. In the same way in nature when you remove one small animal from the food chain, everything is thrown out of proportion and ecosystems are drastically affected—trying to solve any part of the climate change problem has a knock-on effect on other issues.”
She illustrates how using paper straws rather than plastic straws reduces plastic consumption. However, this shift increases the demand for paper and contributes to deforestation, leading to higher CO2 emissions.
Looking forward, the Grade 12 Curro learner hopes to study Mechatronic Engineering after school to equip herself with the technical skills needed to turn project ideas into realities.
“I’m also really interested in the social justice and policymaking side of things, so I hope to do a post-graduate in law after my engineering.
“I think the intersection of the two fields—understanding the social and technical side of things—will be what enables me to make a real change in whatever I decide to pursue long-term,” shares a very driven L’chelle.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
|
| |
|
| |
| CAPETONIAN CHEF TO COOK AT PRESTIGIOUS UK GOURMET FESTIVAL |
|
| |
 |
|
| Chef Patron Ivor Jones of Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia has been invited to cook at Northcote Obsession 25 in England’s Ribble Valley, in the United Kingdom (UK). |
| |
Jones will be one of 21 world-class chefs, with 27 Michelin stars between them, to attend the prestigious gourmet festival, which will take place over 17 nights in January and February 2025.
Jones will take over the kitchen at Northcote, the luxury Lancashire hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant, on Friday, 7 February 2025.
This will mark the 25th anniversary of the festival, which is known unofficially as the Glastonbury of gastronomy.
Obsession launched in 2001 at Northcote as a celebration of great food, wine and a meeting of friends, old and new, a concept that was unique for the UK.
The festival’s offering and legacy have evolved over the years, and since 2022, it has been under the leadership of Northcote Executive Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, who continues to put together collections of innovative chefs and diverse ranges of cuisine. |
|
|
| |
Jones will be in extraordinary company, with chefs joining from the UK, Ireland, Denmark, France, and Singapore. In addition, the festival, which sells out as soon as the chefs are announced, hosts some of the biggest culinary names.
This year it includes Alain Roux of The Waterside Inn in Bray, who will cook at the Grand Finale; Hélène Darroze and Marco Zampese of Hélène Darroze at The Connaught in London; Ed Wilson of Brawn in London; Yannick Alléno of Pavyllon in London; and Alléno Paris, among others.
“When Lisa asked me to be a part of this event, I fell off my chair,” said Jones.
“I’ve watched many of these incredible chefs from afar my whole life and never thought I’d ever cook at an event that includes them. I am so grateful for this opportunity as well as really excited to get tucked into some of the incredible UK produce. I’m also really looking forward to the camaraderie: it’s an exciting social gathering for the industry.”
Jones will be cooking a menu with many of his favourite dishes from Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia.
– Source: www.capetownetc.com |
|
| |
|
| |
| TRIBUTES CONTINUE FOR ARTISTS DOC SHEBELEZA AND WINNIE KHUMALO |
|
| |
| Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Gayton McKenzie has described the passing of legendary Kwaito artist Victor “Doc Shebeleza” Bogopane as a “significant loss for South Africa and the entire music industry”. |
|
| |
|
| |
Bogopane passed away on Thursday, 9 January 2025 at the age of 51.
“On behalf of the Ministry, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and countless fans whose lives he touched. South Africa has lost not only a music legend but a compassionate soul whose contributions to our cultural heritage and community upliftment will not be forgotten.
“His music, laughter and legacy will continue to resonate in our hearts. Rest in power, Victor "Doc Shebeleza" Bogopane,” the Minister said in a statement.
Born in 1973 in Soweto, Doc Shebeleza grew up in a family that valued cultural expression. From an early age, he was exposed to diverse musical influences, from kwaito to traditional South African music, which would later shape his artistic journey.
In 1995, he released his debut album, Shebeleza, which featured the iconic hit Ghets Ghetsa. This success was followed by the album S'kumfete, which included another hit track of the same name.
According to the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture Bogopane cemented his legacy with three more albums: Tiger (1997), Ebumnandini (2000), and Jiva Yoyo (2001).
“In recognition of his contributions to the genre, he was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2018 Mzansi Kwaito and House Music Awards. His influence extended beyond his own work, as illustrated by rapper Cassper Nyovest’s tribute song Doc Shebeleza, which celebrated his lifestyle and impact.
“Doc Shebeleza later collaborated with Cassper on the song Monate showcasing mutual respect and admiration between generations of artists,” said the Ministry.
Following his retirement from the music industry, Doc Shebeleza dedicated himself to philanthropy and founded the non-profit organisation AMAHA (African Musicians Against HIV/AIDS), which focused on social initiatives for the underprivileged.
“Through AMAHA, he contributed to building hundreds of homes for those in need, distributed wheelchairs, and worked tirelessly alongside other legendary artists to uplift communities. His passion for helping others remained central to his life’s work until his untimely passing. In recent years, Doc Shebeleza faced health challenges, having been hospitalised twice last year until his tragic passing on Thursday 9 January 2025.”
Winnie Khumalo
Bogopane’s passing follows the death of Afropop musician, Winnie Khumalo.
Last week, the Minister expressed sadness at the passing of Khumalo also at the age of 51.
“It is with profound sadness to learn of the passing of the legendary Winnie Khumalo, who tragically left us on 7 January 2025 at the age of 51. Her untimely death marks a great loss for South Africa and the music industry,” said the Minister at the time.
Born on 20 July 1973 in Soweto, Khumalo was raised by her grandmother in a time of vibrant cultural life.
At the tender age of 15, Winnie released her debut album, Hey Laitie, Tshina Tshina, produced by the renowned Sello Chicco Twala. She followed this with another album, Dlamini, setting the stage for a prolific music career that spanned decades.
In the 1990s, she recorded the gospel album Izono Zami, produced by Pastor Langa Dube, and collaborated with iconic artists and groups such as the late Brenda Fassie, Brothers of Peace, Bongo Maffin, DJ Cleo, and Zonke Dikana.
The Minister described her “not only a talented lead vocalist but a formidable backing vocalist, enriching the work of those she collaborated with”.
After a seven-year hiatus, she returned with the electrifying album Live My Life, which became an instant classic. The title track, I Just Wanna Live My Life, dominated music charts, earning gold certification with over 25 000 copies sold and 50 000 mobile downloads.
“The song’s success saw her nominated for prestigious awards such as the Channel O Music Awards and the South African Music Awards, cementing her place as a trailblazer in the industry.”
Her later albums reflected her personal growth and resilience. Tracks like Woman and Impilo showcased her ability to channel life’s challenges into powerful and relatable music, said the Ministry.
– Source: SAnews.gov.za |
|
| |
|
| |
| KIRSTEN NEUSCHÄFER HONOURED WITH THE DUCHESS OF KENT TROPHY |
|
| |
 |
|
| Kirsten Neuschäfer has been awarded the Duchess of Kent Trophy, an honour bestowed to sailors who display exceptional spirit in the sailing community, for her efforts during the 2022 Golden Globe Race—not only for becoming the first woman to win but also for showing incredible sportsmanship. |
|
|
| |
The Duchess of Kent Trophy is awarded to “any sailor, not necessarily a member, who has achieved something exceptional in or around small boats.” Kirsten’s achievements embody this spirit, making her an exceptional addition to the distinguished list of past recipients, including Jimmy Cornell, Pip Hare, and Jeanne Socrates.
Kirsten’s victory on Minnehaha, her Cape George 36, in the Golden Globe Race stands as an extraordinary accomplishment in ocean racing history. She completed the gruelling solo, non-stop, and unassisted round-the-world race in an official time of 233 days, 20 hours, 43 minutes, and 47 seconds. Her triumph was not only a win for the record books but also for gender and geographic representation, as Kirsten became the first woman and the first South African sailor to win a solo round-the-world race.
In addition to her win, Kirsten’s race was marked by a courageous rescue. Deep in the Indian Ocean, she altered course to save Finnish competitor Tapio Lehtinen after his yacht sank. Kirsten took Tapio aboard Minnehaha until he could safely transfer to a passing cargo ship, after which she resumed her race. Out of seventeen starters, Kirsten was first among only five finishers of the Golden Globe Race.
“Kirsten’s courage, skill and determination exemplify the very best of the sailing community,” noted Robin Baron, President of the Cruising Association. “The CA is immensely proud to celebrate her extraordinary accomplishments. Kirsten has been a trailblazer and inspired countless sailors worldwide.”
The Golden Globe Race is known for its extreme difficulty, permitting only 1968-era boats and technology as per the inaugural race.
Kirsten was unable to attend the presentation in person due to her current voyage to Cape Town, positioned some 80 nm south of Tristan da Cunha at the time.
Mark Daniels, her sponsor, accepted the Duchess of Kent Trophy on Kirsten’s behalf from Sir Robin Knox-Johnston at the CA’s Flag Officers’ Lunch on 11 January 2025 at CA House, London. In winning the 1968/1969 Golden Globe Race, Sir Robin became the first person to sail single-handed and non-stop around the world.
After sharing words from Kirsten expressing her appreciation for the accolade, Mark reflected on Kirsten’s achievements, saying,
“My association with Kirsten has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, filled with many emotions. She dared to dream, and that dream became a reality when she won the 2022 Golden Globe. When we agreed to sponsor her, she confidently told me, ‘Mark, I’m in the race to win it.’ She then brought together a remarkable team whose support gave her the confidence to succeed. For 233 days, we lived vicariously through her journey. Kirsten’s tenacity, compassion and grit have earned her widespread recognition, yet she remains grounded—not by land, but by the sea she loves and protects. For Scipio SA, we are proud to have supported such an incredible sailor. Watch this space!”
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
|
| |
|
| |
| GLOBAL KITEBOARDING AWARDS HITS CAPE TOWN TODAY FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER |
|
| |
| The Global Kiteboarding Awards have arrived on our shores. Among the nominees are four South African kiteboarding athletes who compete internationally and are in the running for some of the 14 global title awards that are up for grabs. |
|
|
 |
|
| |
The Global Kitesports Association (GKA) is proud to announce the highly anticipated Qatar Airways GKA Awards to be held in Cape Town on Friday, 10 January, marking the first time that this prestigious event will be held in Cape Town and on the African continent.
The world’s top kiteboarders, including some legendary Capetonians, battled it out for 14 awards like Rider of the Year, Freestyle Move of the Year, and Wave of the Year, to name a few.
“The GKA Awards honoured the sport’s greatest athletes, highlighted their most remarkable achievements, and paid tribute to the global kiteboarding community that continues to inspire and innovate within the world of watersports.
“They celebrate the outstanding achievements of the world’s top kiteboarders and shine a light on the relentless dedication and passion of those who push the boundaries of what’s possible with a kite, inspiring future generations and elevating the sport to new heights,” says Dr Jörgen Vogt, CEO of the GKA Kite World Tour.
This spectacular awards event has been described as the “Oscars of Kitesurfing”, and it isn’t just about the awards; it’s a celebration of the entire kiteboarding community – from the athletes pushing the limits to the fans who inspire them.
And the excitement doesn’t stop there; the GKA Big Air Challenge is also happening in the Western Cape, with teams competing for the highest jumps.
The prized statuettes will be awarded to the best men and women athletes who will be given the top honour in the Rider of the Year awards.
The event was an unforgettable evening filled with excitement, passion, and celebration. With many of the world’s best kiteboarders basing themselves in Cape Town to train in the cranking Cape Doctor winds that blow from November to March, a big turnout of professional athletes attended the event.
– Source: www.goodthingsguy.com |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
