The UAE and South Africa share a strong bond that began with the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1994. They maintain flourishing economic ties, with the UAE being South Africa’s largest trading partner in the Middle East. Both nations are committed to promoting peace, dialogue, and support for marginalized communities. They invest in each other and foster a positive image of robust collaboration and integration with other nations and peoples worldwide. As the world faces ongoing global challenges, the UAE and South Africa remain steadfast in their dedication to promoting peace and cooperation.
Ilse De Wet and Liezel Short have made history as the first female leadership duo of the Two Oceans Marathon board. As chairperson and vicechairperson, respectively, they bring expertise in marketing, event organization, and leadership to the board and signify progress towards gender equality in sports management. Their appointment inspires and encourages women to pursue leadership roles in all aspects of life. The new leadership promises a bright future for the Two Oceans Marathon, with a renewed sense of optimism and a shared vision for the event’s ongoing legacy.
Advancing Equality: A Service Delivery Initiative for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities in Kwa-Nongoma
The Advancing Equality Service Delivery Initiative is a joint effort between the Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities and the Office of the Premier of KwaZuluNatal to provide comprehensive government services to women, youth, and individuals with disabilities in KwaNongoma. The initiative aims to address the psychosocial challenges faced by marginalized groups and ensure that everyone can access critical government services. The project sets a precedent for future service delivery drives and symbolizes hope, unity, and progress towards a more equitable society.
Strengthening Ties: Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s Journey to China for the 8th SA-China Bi-National Commission and China International Import Expo
Deputy President Paul Mashatile visited China to strengthen the relationship between China and South Africa. He participated in the 8th South AfricaChina BiNational Commission and attended the China International Import Expo to showcase South Africa as a great investment opportunity. During his visit, he engaged with Chinese leaders and stressed the thriving economic collaboration between the two nations. This visit solidifies the foundation of 25 years of diplomatic relations and historical ties dating back to the Bandung Conference in 1955.
R37 National Road Inauguration in Burgersfort, Limpopo by Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga inaugurated the R37 national road in Burgersfort, Limpopo Province on November 3rd, 2023, after a R780 million partnership with SANRAL to upgrade the road between Burgersfort and Polokwane, promoting better connectivity and addressing traffic demands and road safety concerns. The project aims to link rural areas to Central Business Districts, fostering socioeconomic activity for communities. Additionally, Minister Chikunga distributed Shova Kalula bicycles to selected learners in the Sekhukhune District Municipality, emphasizing the significance of connectivity for education and development.
Reimagining Strand Street Quarry: A Blueprint for Regeneration and Cultural Cohesion
The Strand Street Quarry in Cape Town is set to undergo a radical transformation into a community hub that combines sports, culture, business, and tourism. The draft concept design aims to create a destination that revitalizes the site while providing economic and sporting opportunities to the local community. The project aligns with the city’s Integrated Development Plan, fostering more equitable access to opportunities and social amenities. Public feedback will be accepted until December 4, 2023, and the final concept design will be established after statutory processes and further public engagement.
The Springboks’ victory in the 2023 Rugby World Cup not only brought them their fourth championship title but also united South Africa in a sea of green and gold. The team’s triumph highlights the incredible transformation the country has experienced since its democratic inception, representing the power of a dream and the transcendence of racial and social boundaries. The Springboks serve as a powerful symbol of the country’s progress, reminding South Africans of all races of unity, hope, and determination.
Restoring the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality: United Efforts for Economic Development and Improved Service Delivery
Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Pinky Kekana, visited the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality to evaluate economic and service delivery initiatives. The visit included meetings with influential individuals, such as MEC Ketso Makume and Executive Mayor Cllr Gregory Nthathisi, to discuss progress on addressing past challenges and creating an enabling environment for growth and development. The DPME has already offered support through frontline monitoring reports and interventions, and Deputy Minister Kekana emphasized the importance of a united approach to overcome remaining hurdles and restore the municipality’s former standing.
Affordable housing in Africa, particularly in South Africa, faces challenges such as slow economic growth, high unemployment rates, and a lack of affordable options. Financing for lowincome families also remains difficult to secure. However, the South African government has launched programs such as the First Home Finance (FHF) program and social housing to bridge the funding gap. The Human Settlements Development Bank is also being formed to promote private sector funding, while transitioning to innovative building technologies is critical for addressing climate change and energy challenges. While significant progress has been made, the housing shortage remains severe, and the government pledges to continue working on sustainable solutions.
Western Cape leaders are calling for the MTBPS2023 to prioritize service delivery in critical sectors like education and healthcare, and to focus on economic growth driven by the private sector instead of poorly managed Stateowned Enterprises. They express concern about potential funding cuts through the Provincial Equitable Share and urge the national government to assume the costs of the publicsector wage increase. The leaders’ expectations for the budget adjustments offer valuable insight into the potential impacts on the Western Cape and the entire nation’s economic and social landscape.
The HemelenAarde Valley in South Africa’s Western Cape is undergoing road restoration following devastating floods, showcasing the power of collaboration and perseverance. The project, led by the Western Cape Provincial Minister of Infrastructure and Overstrand Executive Mayor Dr. Annelie Rabie, involves building a temporary bypass oneway lane to enhance access and allow traffic to move through stop/go operations, with cooperation from local business proprietors. The project leaders have called for patience from road users and compliance with signage and traffic control measures once the road reopens.
Professor Ihron Rensburg has been appointed as the Administrator of the University of South Africa to address governance and financial irregularities. His responsibilities include initiating processes to restore proper governance and management, developing and implementing a turnaround plan, and commissioning an independent external investigation or forensic audit into financial irregularities. Prof Rensburg will also establish a new council, realign UNISA’s strategic focus, and support student body strategies to improve success rates. His appointment represents a critical juncture for UNISA, and the higher education community looks forward to the revitalization of its governance, management, and strategic focus.
Eastern Cape MEC for Health, Nomakhosazana Meth, is calling for increased food safety inspections and penalties for store owners who sell expired products in South Africa. This comes after a surge in foodborne illnesses across the nation, particularly among school children. Meth has urged municipalities, law enforcement agencies, and other stakeholders to enhance food safety inspection procedures to protect children from expired items and ensure that store owners who violate the law are held responsible. The responsibility for food safety also falls on consumers to be cautious about where they buy their food.
Barcadia in Cape Town is a unique combination of a retro arcade bar and contemporary gaming hub. With classic arcade games, a PlayStation 5, and a Stern KISS pinball machine, Barcadia caters to both oldschool and modern gamers. Visitors can enjoy freshly made popcorn and a variety of alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks while taking in the vintage ambiance of the venue. Entry is limited to adults aged 21 and over, and Barcadia is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 6 pm to 2 am.
The DHL Stormers dominated the Scarlets in a spectacular rugby showdown, winning 527 at the Danie Craven Stadium. They showcased their exceptional attacking skills, with Marcel Theunissen scoring a double and Ben Loader making an impressive debut try. Despite injuries, the team demonstrated their depth of talent and unrelenting momentum, highlighting their potential to become championship contenders. Sacha FeinbergMngomezulu’s outstanding performance earned him the Man of the Match award and exemplified the Stormers’ resources to overcome challenges. The URC provides an exciting platform for highquality rugby encounters.
The South African Police Service has made significant progress in the investigation of the Inanda multiple murder case, resulting in the apprehension of three suspects found with ammunition. The detectives were later guided to a location where a gunfight broke out, resulting in the death of a 60yearold man connected to the suspects. The arrested suspects are scheduled to appear before the Ntuzuma Magistrates Court, offering relief to the families affected by the brutal killings. The diligent efforts of the Inanda detectives offer hope for justice and accountability in the face of such senseless violence.