Business - Page 52

The Free State Department of Economic, Small Business, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs has teamed up with CocaCola Beverages South Africa to empower small businesses in townships. The Bizniz in a Box program provides infrastructure and equipment assistance to 50 SMMEs, with a focus on women and young entrepreneurs. The goal is to unlock the untapped potential of township enterprises and set them on a growth trajectory towards an inclusive and prosperous future while bridging the gap between township and mainstream economic activities.

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) warns against scammers targeting job seekers and small businesses during the festive season. To avoid falling for scams, individuals should exercise caution, verify the legitimacy of advertised vacancies, and avoid sharing personal information. The DPWI stresses that the government will never ask for payments related to services, jobs, and tenders. By staying alert and reporting any suspected scams, the public can protect themselves and others from falling victim to fraudulent schemes.

Good news for SASSA Gold Card beneficiaries: Postbank has confirmed the extended validity of the cards for grant payments beyond December 2023. This means that beneficiaries can continue accessing their funds securely and conveniently without having to switch to other banks’ cards, saving them time and expenses. SASSA beneficiaries should disregard any misinformation suggesting that they must switch to other card products due to the expiration of SASSA gold cards, as Postbank is the sole bank authorized to replace these cards.

South Africa is gearing up to host the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum in November 2023, gathering government officials, business leaders, and industry experts from across Africa and the United States to discuss trade, investment, and economic development. The AGOA Forum is an initiative by the United States to offer eligible SubSaharan African countries preferential access to the US market, and South Africa’s hosting of the event highlights the nation’s dedication to economic growth and global integration. Minister Ebrahim Patel’s media briefing on October 26 will provide an update on the country’s preparedness for the forum and offer insights into the upcoming program.

PRASA, South Africa’s Passenger Rail Agency, is revolutionizing the country’s railways by launching two major development projects aimed at enhancing living conditions and providing affordable housing. The Goodwood Station Social Housing initiative aims to deliver over a thousand affordable rental units by October 2023, while the Cape Town Station development will offer 3,200 beds for students and a revamped retail precinct. PRASA’s diversified portfolio includes real estate investment and development to offset the cost of operating passenger rail services. These projects signify a collaborative commitment to improving transportation and infrastructure in South Africa.

Airbnb’s growth in South Africa has had a remarkable impact on the country’s economy and tourism industry, with its contribution to the GDP exceeding R23.5 billion in 2022 and creating over 50,000 jobs. Domestic travelers have been a significant factor in this growth, with 60% of total nights booked on the platform from locals. Airbnb’s pledge to support nonprofit organizations demonstrates its commitment to promoting sustainable tourism and fostering stronger communities.

BRICS countries, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, are collaborating to prioritize policies that promote a fair and sustainable recovery of tourism. The tourism industry has the potential to boost economies, generate jobs, and promote international relations. Sustainable and inclusive tourism is crucial for a more resilient and equitable future, and BRICS countries can contribute to shaping a brighter future for the industry. The ongoing recovery process offers a distinctive chance for the travel and tourism sector to implement revolutionary changes, thereby building a more resilient and inclusive future.

The Western Cape Government has launched an *electricity wheeling toolkit* to promote *energy resilience* and encourage *private sector involvement* in energy infrastructure development. The toolkit is a comprehensive guide for implementing *thirdparty wheeling*, which *increases electricity availability, reduces bulk purchase expenses,* and *encourages renewable energy adoption*. The initiative also *stimulates investment and economic development* in the region and offers practical spreadsheets and standardized templates for drafting agreements with third parties. The Western Cape Government provides implementation assistance upon request, and the toolkit is part of the Municipal Energy Resilience Initiative to transition to a *low carbon pathway*.

South Africa is working to enhance maritime security and improve transportation infrastructure through local initiatives and global collaborations. The country is implementing the Djibouti Code of Conduct, a regional agreement designed to counter piracy and armed robbery against vessels, and investing in transportation infrastructure development through initiatives like the PRASA MixedUse Development Student Accommodation and Retail Centre. These efforts demonstrate South Africa’s commitment to economic growth, social development, and sustainability, positioning the country as a regional leader in the global community.

Tsingtao Brewery, a top beer producer in China, faced a scandal when a video surfaced showing an employee urinating in an ingredient container. The company responded quickly, launching an investigation and emphasizing their commitment to quality and safety. The incident sparked debate on social media and raised questions about the beer industry’s need for accountability and quality control. As the investigation continues, Tsingtao Brewery must work to regain consumer trust and navigate the impact on its reputation and financial stability.

South Africa’s freight and rail industry is undergoing a rebirth as the government focuses on modernization and rejuvenation. The National Logistics Crisis Committee (NLCC) is working with Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) to address challenges in rail, port, and road transport systems, while promoting public awareness of ongoing reforms. Investment in infrastructure and technology can lower transportation costs, improve connectivity, and open new opportunities for businesses and communities. The upcoming GCIS webinar provides an opportunity to learn about the ongoing reforms and their potential benefits for South Africa’s economy and environment.

The upcoming season is expected to see a significant increase in seat capacity at Cape Town International Airport, which will result in over one million inbound international seats for the first time ever. The Western Cape in South Africa is getting ready for an incredible summer tourism season, with over one million international seats expected. The province has taken coordinated steps to ensure improvements in visa systems, visitor safety, and skilled labor availability in tourism and hospitality sectors.

KwaZuluNatal is gearing up for a groundbreaking twoday CannabisHemp Conference & Expo that aims to unlock the vast potential of the cannabis industry in South Africa. The event, organized by the Department of Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, aims to provide rural entrepreneurs with the latest technology, funding, and market access to become leading exporters of highquality cannabis products. The conference and expo are also expected to boost the local economy while promoting environmental sustainability, and will be open to a diverse audience including industry experts, government officials, and local communities.

The Western Cape Government in South Africa has launched an electricity wheeling toolkit to connect private electricity producers with individual consumers, reducing the impact of loadshedding and increasing access to renewable energy. This joint effort aims to provide sustainable energy solutions to address energy challenges, demonstrating the government’s dedication to discovering inventive methods. The toolkit offers economic benefits by allowing private consumers to save on their electricity bills and promoting the region’s green economy, creating new employment opportunities and drawing investment for sustainable energy infrastructure.

The Department of Employment and Labour conducted a weeklong blitz inspection in Potchefstroom, North West Province, to evaluate compliance with acts related to employment services. The focus was on the hospitality sector, with noncompliance identified as a prevalent issue, especially with the Unemployment Insurance Act. The Department expanded its services to over 1600 communities, offering Public Employment Services, Unemployment Insurance Fund services, and Compensation Fund services. The Department is committed to advocating for adherence to relevant acts and ensuring fair labor practices.