ABALOBI is a South African nonprofit initiative that empowers traditional fishers to participate in decisions regarding local marine resources and establishes a direct connection with local consumers and restaurants. Their mobile application allows consumers to trace the journey of their fish from the sea to their plates, enhancing transparency and trust. ABALOBI was recognized globally as a finalist in the Revive Our Oceans category for the 2023 Earthshot Prize for their contributions to protecting oceanic biodiversity and livelihoods.
South Africa’s fight against organised crime and illegal mining is a top priority for the government. The Justice Crime Prevention and Security Cluster is leading the charge against criminal networks and has made significant progress in dismantling them. Operation Shanela, handled by the South African Police Service, has resulted in the arrest of over 213,000 suspects and seized over 2,600 illegal firearms. The government has also created an Integrated Illegal Mining and related crimes intervention plan, which has resulted in over 4,000 arrests, and community involvement is crucial in identifying and reporting illegal activity.
The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) is transforming Nelson Mandela Bay by addressing issues such as illegal dumping and rejuvenating parks and coastal areas. The EPWP has created 8,000 job opportunities in the Eastern Cape, promoting tourism and encouraging job growth while supporting families. The programme’s Cleaning and Greening initiative emphasizes sustainability by rehabilitating waste dumps, planting trees, and educating communities on their significance. The EPWP serves as a lifeline for many workers, offering them a means to support their families while enhancing the visual appeal of towns and cities in the Eastern Cape.
The North Gauteng High Court has ruled in favor of the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport, allowing the Vaal River City Interchange project to proceed without disruption. The contract had been given to Ditshimega Projects and Training, which was disputed by unsuccessful bidders Mapitsi Civil Works and MECSA Construction, but the court found that Ditshimega’s completion certificates were relevant and consistent with the tender project. This landmark decision sets a precedent for public procurement in South Africa, emphasizing the importance of transparency, fairness, and due diligence in ensuring successful execution of public projects.
The North West Office of the Premier takes accountability and integrity seriously in public service. This is exemplified by granting special leave to an embattled official and demanding comprehensive reports. The pivotal role of Department Heads emphasizes the need for dynamic and steadfast governance to maintain public confidence. The interplay of legal processes, from safeguarding presumed innocence to pursuing transparent governance, highlights the challenges of governance under the lens.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is leading the charge against corruption in the country. He spoke at the opening session of the National AntiCorruption Advisory Council’s National Dialogue, promoting the creation of new anticorruption initiatives and movements. The National AntiCorruption Strategy is a multisectoral effort that involves the entirety of society and prioritizes active citizen participation to hold leaders and organizations accountable. The National Dialogue emphasized the importance of promoting accountability and transparency at all levels of society, including exploring the role of technology in fighting corruption.
Experience the rich cultural and culinary offerings of Cape Town with these top cooking courses. From the BoKaap Cooking Tour that takes you on a guided walk and interactive cooking workshop, to the musicinfused Food Jams and the traditional African cooking at Pahari Restaurant, there’s something for everyone. StirCrazy Cooking offers diverse classes, while Ginger & Lime provides an international flair. Embark on a gastronomic adventure and broaden your culinary horizons with these unforgettable experiences.
Maureen Etuket, a Ugandan doctoral student, has developed an innovative tool called the SMART PVD device to combat postpartum hemorrhage, a leading cause of maternal mortality. The device, which is still in development, is designed as a drape that collects blood beneath a birthing mother and activates an alarm when blood volume reaches critical levels, alerting medical staff and possibly preventing fatal outcomes. Etuket’s commitment to enhancing public healthcare and preserving lives serves as an inspiring reminder that even complex medical challenges can be tackled through innovation, collaboration, and determination.
Fakhar Zaman’s unbeaten performance of 126 runs off 81 balls, including 11 sixes and eight fours, helped Pakistan chase a revised DLS target of 342 in 41 overs against New Zealand, keeping their World Cup dreams alive. Pakistan needed to reach their original target of 402 runs within 35.3 overs to surpass New Zealand’s powerful net runrate and secure their place in the semifinals. South Africa’s Proteas also advanced to the semifinals with a thrilling 21run victory over New Zealand.
South Africa’s Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM) has begun, aiming to promote an inclusive society that caters to diverse needs and establishes equity. Spearheaded by Minister Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, the campaign focuses on consolidating and accelerating disability rights into the future, adhering to the Bill of Rights that ensures the right to life, equality, and human dignity for everyone. The campaign emphasizes the importance of collective efforts to break down barriers to inclusion and promote a society where people with disabilities can flourish and realize their full potential.
The Smile and See Foundation, a Belgiumbased organization, provided lifechanging cataract surgeries for visually impaired patients at the Vredendal Hospital Eye Care Centre in South Africa. Their weeklong efforts successfully carried out 102 surgeries, restoring sight and providing an opportunity for patients to remain economically active and function autonomously. The transformative power of global collaboration between different organizations and individuals was evident in this inspiring instance of unity and teamwork. The impact of these surgeries extends well beyond the improvement of eye health alone, providing a lifeline to numerous families.
The 2023 SACN Urban Festival focuses on “The Working City: Actions for Growth and Recovery,” addressing challenges affecting urban advancement, including strengthening institutions for local government in South Africa and utilizing datadriven decisionmaking to achieve increased resilience. The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) plays a vital role in supporting municipalities to consistently perform their basic duties and functions. Challenges faced by municipalities include poverty, unemployment, inadequate delivery of services, and political instability. Harnessing data and technology is crucial for improving decisionmaking, and establishing institutionally resilient local government is essential for a developmental and resilient state.
The EFF has demanded the resignation of DA councillor Abdulkader Elyas, accusing him of falsifying his medical qualifications. The controversy began when Elyas claimed to have earned his qualifications from the University of Cape Town, which was allegedly false. ActionSA has called for a qualifications audit to ensure that only qualified individuals hold public office and to maintain credibility and ethical leadership within the Western Cape Government and the City of Cape Town. The scandal highlights the importance of honesty, integrity, and ethical leadership in public office, and the need for vigilance and accountability.
Cape Town is facing a housing crisis due to budget cuts of over R107m, with significant reductions in funding for informal settlement upgrading and urban settlements development. The city is shifting its focus to private sector housing delivery and advocating for a higher share of funding to support its growing population. Despite financial obstacles, Cape Town remains committed to its vision of being a progressive, propoor, and progrowth city.
Get ready for a fiery adventure at the Banhoek Chilli Oil Taste Kitchen, located in the beautiful Cape Winelands. Indulge in a variety of delicious meals showcasing the diverse flavors of Banhoek Chilli Oil, and take a guided tasting tour of the production facility. The kitchen also offers red and white wine tastings, highlighting some of the valley’s finest wines. Don’t forget to pick up a bottle of their exclusive chilli oil flavors before you leave.
The National Development Agency (NDA) in South Africa has forged a partnership with the Africa Cooperatives Institute of South Africa (ACISA) to support poverty eradication initiatives. This collaboration aspires to empower individuals, families, and communities by implementing selfhelp programs that lead to sustainable livelihoods. The partners have come together to organize the 3rd Conference on Cooperatives and the Solidarity Economy (CCSE2023), scheduled to take place in Johannesburg from November 1st to 3rd, 2023.