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.
South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Mr. Ronald Lamola, has recently announced a series of proposed reforms to the existing whistleblowing legal framework. These recommendations, open for public comment, were based on an extensive research process and comparative analysis of different global whistleblower systems, including those of the US, UK, New Zealand, Canada, Australia, Uganda, Namibia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Ghana.
The Western Cape Province has experienced a significant increase in the number of visitors to its various attractions, with a 54% growth recorded compared to the previous year. This surge has been due to domestic and international tourists who are eager to explore the region’s rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes. As a result, Wesgro, the Western Cape Government’s official tourism, trade, and investment promotion agency, has compiled a monthly tourism report highlighting the province’s achievement in attracting visitors.
The National Water and Sanitation Youth Indaba, held at the Durban International Conference Centre in KwaZuluNatal from June 26th to June 30th, 2023, brought together young professionals, academics, and nongovernmental organizations to discuss innovative solutions to address the challenges faced by the water and sanitation sector. The event was organized by the Department of Water and Sanitation, in collaboration with Umgeni and Mhlathuze Water.
In today’s world, where the effects of climate change threaten humanity’s survival, it is crucial to have leaders who prioritize environmental management and strive to build resilience against the consequences of global warming. One such leader is Ms. Barbara Creecy, the South African Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment. Her recent speech at the Annual Garden Route Environmental Management and Climate Change Indaba 2023 highlighted the importance of localized efforts to combat climate change and adapt our societies to its effects.
On June 29, 2023, the Durban International Convention Centre hosted the 8th annual Green Youth Indaba. Among the attendees was Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and The Environment, Barbara Creecy, who delivered a speech on the importance of sustainable development and the role of youth in addressing environmental issues.
In a landmark decision, Judge Johannes Daffue of the Special Tribunal has ruled that three former Western Cape municipal officials must jointly pay back R400,027.50 for their involvement in an irregular Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) tender. This case highlights the devastating impact of corruption and maladministration in public procurement during the Covid19 pandemic.
At the 8th Summit of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) held in Ezulwini, Eswatini on June 29, 2023, President Cyril Ramaphosa spoke to Union leaders about the challenges facing the global economy and the importance of collaboration and cooperation within SACU.
The KwaZuluNatal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs recently released a preliminary report on the damages caused by severe weather conditions in Durban Metro and Ugu District Municipality. The report revealed that heavy rains and strong winds caused significant harm to roads, electricity, sewer systems, and housing.
Inanda, a town located northwest of Durban, was recently struck by a devastating tornado. In response to this disaster, the government has pledged assistance to help rebuild the homes affected by the tornado. ### Government Inspection and Assistance Plan
On June 28, 2023, South Africa held municipal byelections in four provinces: Gauteng, KwaZuluNatal, Mpumalanga, and Western Cape. These elections brought about some changes in the political landscape and introduced new councillors from different political parties. In this article, we explore the election outcomes, the shifts they caused, and briefly introduce the newlyelected councillors.
On June 28th, 2023, the South African Police Service (SAPS) celebrated a significant milestone for 552 newly trained constables who completed the Basic Police Learning Development Programme (BPLDP). These officers will join the police force in their mission to protect and serve the citizens of South Africa.
On June 29, Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Sihle Zikalala, visited the Expanded Public Works Program (EPWP) project in Okhahlamba Local Municipality, KwaZuluNatal. The visit was part of the EPWP PrePresidential Imbizo, an event to engage with local community members and assess the progress of government initiatives.
South Africa’s political economy is a complex interplay of historical injustice, aspirations for equality, and challenges posed by global and domestic environments. This article provides insights into South Africa’s path towards inclusive and prosperous development by examining the challenges and opportunities faced in addressing income inequality, promoting economic transformation, managing natural resources sustainably, and fostering international partnerships.
South Africa’s political economy is a complex tapestry interwoven with historical injustices, aspirations for equality, and ongoing challenges presented by both global and domestic environments. Addressing income inequality, promoting economic transformation, managing natural resources sustainably, and fostering international partnerships are essential components of South Africa’s path towards inclusive and prosperous development.
The Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) and the Eastern Cape SocioEconomic Consultative Council (ECSSEC) are partnering to host a twoday workshop aimed at creating an Integrated Aquaculture and Fisheries Strategy for the Eastern Cape Province. This initiative recognizes the significant contribution that aquaculture and fisheries can have on the region’s food security, economic development, job creation, and rural development.
The Department of Employment and Labour recently offered a potential exemption for employers who cannot afford to pay the National Minimum Wage. This exemption was highlighted during a threeday advocacy seminar held in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, with the theme of “Paying the National Minimum Wage is the Right Thing to Do”. The event aimed to educate stakeholders on various acts, including the National Minimum Wage Act, Basic Conditions of Employment Act, Unemployment Insurance Act, and Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA) amendments.