A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.
The Eastern Cape’s Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) has partnered with the Eastern Cape SocioEconomic Consultative Council to organize a twoday workshop for smallscale farmers. The event aimed to develop an inclusive provincial aquaculture and fisheries strategy to support the growth of the sector in the region.
Dr. Blade Nzimande, South Africa’s Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation, recently spoke at the Black Business Council Summit held in Kempton Park. The event aimed to promote economic growth and job creation through collaboration on skills development and innovation. In his address, Dr. Nzimande emphasized the government’s commitment to developing a skilled and capable workforce to support an inclusive growth path.
South Africa’s Ministry of Finance has made history by appointing Ms. Yanga Mputa as the nation’s first female Tax Ombud. This momentous appointment, effective from July 1, 2023, marks a significant milestone in South Africa’s tax administration system. ## Ms. Mputa’s Impressive Career
The AfCFTA Workshops: Informing South African Businesses and SMEs on the Benefits of Trading Under the Agreement The Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (the dtic) along with the City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality, Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism, and the Western Cape Tourism, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (Wesgro) are organizing a workshop on the implementation and operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA). Scheduled for July 7, 2023, at the Southern Sun Cape Sun Hotel, this workshop is part of a series aimed at enlightening South African businesses and exportready Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) on the benefits of trading under the AfCFTA.
Gauteng MEC for Transport and Logistics, Kedibone DialeTlabela, has launched the registration of vehicle number plate manufacturers. The initiative is aimed at promoting and encouraging embossers to become legalized manufacturers of number plates, ensuring compliance with existing regulations. ## The Need for Secure and TamperProof Number Plates
South Africa recently concluded its Youth Month Commemorations, which highlighted the importance of addressing the socioeconomic needs of the younger generation. To create sustainable livelihoods for young people, the South African government has called for collaboration between businesses, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has prevented a potential business robbery and kidnapping of a foreign businessman in Bellville, Western Cape, through proactive policing. On June 30, 2023, the National Intervention Task Team members, acting on intelligencedriven information, apprehended seven suspects in two separate locations in Bellville.
Cape Town’s recent heavy rains brought the city’s dam levels to a staggering 97.1%, leading residents to ponder the longterm implications of such a drastic change. However, city officials warn against a false sense of water security and emphasize the need for infrastructure beyond dams to ensure the city’s water supply.
Bredasdorp, a charming town located in the Cape Agulhas region, has recently introduced a new affordable housing project that aims to provide homeownership opportunities to firsttime buyers. The Mill Park Development, a joint venture between the provincial Department of Infrastructure and the Cape Agulhas Municipality, is a groundbreaking initiative that strives to address the shortage of affordable housing in the area.
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s dedication to addressing South Africa’s pressing challenges and fostering international relations is evident in his packed agenda. Here are some of the highlights of his public program: ### Working Visit with South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit
The Motheo Innovation Centre was inaugurated on June 30th, 2023, in Centurion, Pretoria, as a testament to South Africa’s commitment to empowering the youth, women, and Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). The Centre, established through the collaboration of the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) and Software AG, is a beacon of hope for South African entrepreneurs seeking to harness the power of technology for sustainable growth.
A remarkable rescue operation in Limpopo Province has reunited a kidnapped businessman with his family. The successful recovery was achieved through the tireless efforts and commitment of a multidisciplinary investigation task team. ### Collaboration and Commitment
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched “Operation Shanela,” a coordinated effort to combat crime in Western Cape Province. This initiative involves integrated forces and aims to curb crime in hotspot regions where crime rates are typically higher during weekends.
South Africa has taken a significant step towards ensuring a sustainable environment for its citizens. On June 30, 2023, the majority of provisions within the National Environmental Management Laws Amendment Act (NEMLAA) of 2022 have come into effect. The NEMLAA is a comprehensive law that amends various environmental management acts and addresses a wide range of environmental concerns.
Constable Mulalo Lucky Mudau, once a promising young officer in the Ekurhuleni District Tracing Unit, faces the consequences of his actions in a tragic tale of love gone awry. On February 9, 2022, Mudau went to Tembisa Hospital, where his girlfriend, Lebogang Monene, worked as a nurse.
The City of Cape Town recently honoured 152 staff members from its Recreation and Parks Department for their years of dedication and commitment. These individuals, who have served between 20 and 45 years, have contributed a total of 6,934 years to the department. The event showcased the crucial role played by these employees in the department’s success and their positive impact on the community.