On June 23rd, Dr. Blade Nzimande, the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation, visited the University of Fort Hare in a series of followup engagements with the University Council and various stakeholders. ### A Rich History
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasized the importance of a just energy transition in achieving a sustainable and equitable future. In a recent round table discussion during the Summit for a New Global Financing Pact, President Ramaphosa shared key lessons learned from South Africa’s journey towards a lowcarbon economy and highlighted the need for longterm partnerships tailored to each nation’s unique challenges.
The South African government, led by Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala, has been making significant strides in combating the construction mafia, which has cost the country’s economy billions of rands. Minister Zikalala recently visited KwaZuluNatal to inspect various construction projects and provide updates on the government’s initiatives to tackle the construction mafia.
Botshabelo, a vibrant community in the heart of the Free State Province, is set to host a community engagement event on June 23, organized by the Department of Tourism, in collaboration with the Department of Small Business Development and the Free State Department of Economic Development, Small Business, Tourism, and Environment Affairs (DESTEA). The main objective of this gathering is to explore ways to upskill and empower the youth in the tourism sector.
The Western Cape prepares for the Netball World Cup 2023, which will take place for the first time on African soil. Cape Town will be the exclusive host for all matches, reflecting the vitality of women’s empowerment and providing an economic boost for the region.
Cape Town, a bustling metropolis filled with opportunities has recently become a target for fraudsters who prey on residents seeking employment. The City of Cape Town has issued a warning to all its residents to be cautious and vigilant for job scams that require payment. These unscrupulous individuals take advantage of job seekers’ hopes and dreams, leaving them in financial despair.
On June 28, 2023, ten municipal byelections will take place in Gauteng, KwaZuluNatal, Mpumalanga, and the Western Cape provinces, with almost 100,000 registered voters expected to participate. These byelections are a vital opportunity for citizens to influence local governance and policies.
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) is calling for nominations for the 2023 National Teaching Awards (NTAs) to recognize and honor exceptional teachers who have made significant contributions to shaping future generations. The nominations, from teachers across the Western Cape, will close on 24 July 2023.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has confirmed his attendance and will serve as the keynote speaker at the 11th All Africa Business Leader Awards (AABLA™). The event will take place on June 23, 2023, at the Sun City Resort in the North West Province. The AABLA celebrates and recognizes the accomplishments of African business leaders who have made significant contributions to their companies, industries, and communities.
South Africa, Denmark, and the Netherlands recently held a successful business forum to explore opportunities in green hydrogen and green energy sectors, aimed at strengthening economic ties and fostering collaboration. The Netherlands and Denmark showed keen interest in becoming key trading partners with South Africa, particularly in the newage green sectors.
On June 19, 2023, various departments and agencies, including the National Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), Western Cape Environmental Affairs, Development Planning, and Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries conducted a joint operation to audit the Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works and other facilities. The main objective of the operation, led by Ms. Boniswa Hene, the DWS Western Cape Director Regulations, was to assess the compliance level of WasteWater Treatment Works (WWTW) and its associated infrastructure, ensuring adherence to water use license conditions to protect both freshwater and marine resources.
KwaZuluNatal, a coastal province in South Africa, has been successful in maintaining stable dam levels throughout the winter season. This accomplishment is a testament to the province’s commitment to ensuring a consistent water supply and promoting responsible water usage. This article provides an overview of the current situation of dam levels in KwaZuluNatal and emphasizes the importance of water conservation measures.
On June 20, 2023, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) hosted the Africa Public Service Day Ministerial Youth Outreach Dialogue, with Hon. Ms. Noxolo Kiviet, MP Minister for the Public Service and Administration in attendance. The event had the theme “The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will require a fit for purpose African public administration to succeed,” aligning with the Continental Africa Public Service Day (APSD) celebrated on June 23, 2023.
Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, held a media briefing recently to provide an update on the outcomes of a Cabinet meeting that took place on June 21, 2023. The briefing was held at the Ronnie Mamoepa Press Room in Pretoria and was livestreamed for those who could not attend in person. Its main aim was to keep the public informed of their government’s decisions and actions.
The Department of Health and one of its senior officials, Mr. Popo Maja, have recently garnered media attention due to his court appearance on June 21. Despite this, the department has not yet commented on the matter, choosing to gather more information about the alleged charges first.
In what can only be described as a significant milestone in the fight against poaching in South Africa, a 32year sentence was imposed on Freedom Ndlovu for his involvement in a series of poachingrelated offenses. This decision reinforces the gravity of wildlife crimes and the need for stricter measures to combat them. Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, the Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga, expressed hope that the harsh penalty would serve as a warning to other wouldbe offenders.