Manchester United’s young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo wowed fans and experts with his impressive performance in a recent Premier League match against Everton. Despite being only 18 years old, Mainoo showed maturity, control of the midfield, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. He overcame a preseason injury to make his debut and has become a potential linchpin in United’s future success, with fans and colleagues alike acknowledging his talent and potential. Manchester United’s manager Erik ten Hag has highlighted the importance of grooming young talent like Mainoo for a promising trajectory in the club’s future.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) is facing a devastating rise in officer fatalities, with over 70 officers lost in the last seven months due to criminal attacks and ambushes. The situation highlights the need for strategic responses to address the systemic issues contributing to elevated levels of violence against law enforcement. The SAPS leadership has pledged to continue supporting and empowering officers in their crimefighting efforts, but comprehensive solutions are needed to ensure the safety and welfare of these valiant officers who daily risk their lives to guard their communities.
South Africa’s Department of Human Settlements has praised Limpopo Provincial Government for its efforts in championing economic empowerment among youth and women contractors. Limpopo’s Human Settlement Development Grant (HSDG) has redeemed its reputation in the current fiscal year, surpassing expectations. The Limpopo Department of Human Settlements has ensured that a minimum of 40% of the value of housing projects is dedicated to certain groups; up to 62% of the value of these projects has been apportioned to these groups, effectively revolutionizing the sector. The Department aims to provide quality, affordable housing to all South Africans.
Standard Chartered Bank has admitted to engaging in improper conduct in relation to the trading of the Rand/US Dollar currency pair, resulting in substantial penalties for the bank and raising doubts about market conduct. The National Treasury is committed to upholding the ongoing legal process and proposes additional legislation in 2024 to preserve the fairness and integrity of the South African financial markets. The proposed measures include introducing stringent governance, transparency, and conflict management requirements and broadening market abuse provisions to applicable security. The goal is to foster transparent, fair, and efficient financial markets and eradicate any form of malpractice and unjust treatment of customers.
The Health Portfolio Committee of South Africa organized three public hearings on the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill in Gauteng which saw a wide range of opinions, including disputes over the Bill’s introduction, concerns about its impact on small businesses, and debates about its potential effect on South Africa’s financial health. The proponents of the Bill advocated for plain packaging and the prohibition of tobacco sales through vending machines. The public hearings in Gauteng were a reflection of the people’s determination and the government’s dedication to hearing their voices.
A new campaign led by the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) is launching in Mpumalanga, South Africa to eliminate GenderBased Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and increase access to clean water. The 16 Days of Activism against Violence towards Women and Children campaign will begin in November 2023 and emphasizes two key themes: Swift Actions to Eradicate GBVF and Ensuring Inclusivity for All, and Women’s Access to Pure Water. The CGE is committed to remedying inequalities and ensuring basic human rights for all, with a focus on marginalized communities.
South Africa has made history with the launch of its firstever Sovereign Randdenominated AlIjarah Sukuk, valued at ZAR20.386 billion. The Senior Unsecured Shari’ah Trust Certificates were oversubscribed by 1.74 times, demonstrating a shift towards creative financial solutions. The transaction signifies a significant stride towards diversifying RSA’s investor base and enriching its financing strategy and sets a precedent for financial innovation and market enlargement on the African continent.
The Department of Water and Sanitation and the International Water Management Institute held a Climate Change and Water Sector Consultation workshop to tackle water scarcity and climate change. The workshop brought together government, civil society, and the private sector to construct a platform for dialogue and joint action towards a sustainable and climateresilient water sector. The consultation emphasized the need for collective action and shared responsibility to achieve water inclusion and a resilient future for the Water and Sanitation Sector.
The Dr Pixley Isaka Ka Seme Memorial Hospital in KwaMashu, KwaZuluNatal, is a beacon of hope for the community. Providing free healthcare and hospital services for all, the hospital addresses the growing healthcare needs of the area, including noncommunicable diseases. The facility also offers a primary healthcare outreach program, bringing vital services to the people. The hospital is a testament to the government’s commitment to providing quality healthcare for all and creating job opportunities while utilizing sustainable building practices.
The Manyane Game Lodge project has financial issues due to inadequate monitoring and evaluation, escalating irregular expenditure, and unaccountedfor assets. The project’s budget has surged to an alarming R71 million, and an extra R24 million is needed to complete the project. The Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism, in collaboration with the Department of Public Works, has pledged to resolve the problems and deliver a thorough report to the committee. The ongoing probe highlights the critical need for accountability, transparency, and sound financial management in public ventures.
A new radiology diagnostic centre in Alexandra township, South Africa, has been established to provide toptier medical imaging services to less privileged communities. The collaboration between governmental figures and private sector leaders marks a significant stride towards a future where highquality healthcare is a universal right. This initiative represents a beacon of hope for a more equal future in a world where over twothirds of the population have no access to trustworthy medical imaging.
The HWSETA roundtable discussion aims to transform the veterinary sector by identifying hurdles, fasttracking transformation, creating a more inclusive sector, and discussing strategies for workforce expansion. The event, featuring a keynote address from the Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, brings together a diverse group of stakeholders, including veterinary professionals, government officials, universities, councils, associations, and other interested parties. The initiative embodies hope for the future a future where the veterinary sector offers opportunities to many.
A team of marine researchers from Stellenbosch University and the Sea Change Project are exploring South Africa’s Great African Seaforest, an underwater kelp forest that spans nearly 1,000 kilometers of the country’s shores. They aim to understand the kelp forest ecosystem and its biodiversity through two principal projects: investigating the invertebrate biodiversity of kelp holdfasts and cataloging entire marine communities using environmental DNA. The partnership promises to reveal the numerous mysteries of the Great African Seaforest, bringing together diverse expertise to broaden the understanding of these kelp forests and their significance to humanity.
Radisson RED Cape Town is a unique hotel experience that combines art, fashion, and music. They offer exciting yearend party options, delicious gourmet experiences, and unforgettable entertainment events like the RED Summer Sessions and the RED’s Summer Playlist. The hotel celebrates the festive season with special events like the Yes VeGan Xmas and the Family Affair, making it the perfect place to enjoy the holiday season, RED style. Booking is easy, just send an email or make a phone call to secure your spot.
Football legend Papi Khomane, his mother, and uncle tragically passed away in a car accident while traveling to a funeral in KwaZulu Natal. Papi Khomane was a revered figure in football, having made over 150 appearances during his nineyear tenure at Orlando Pirates, and his leadership on and off the pitch had a significant impact on the sport. Tributes pour in for the legendary defender, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of the sport.
Sergeant Molwantoa Rapakgadi is a warrior in blue, a dedicated detective in South Africa’s SAPS who investigates some of society’s most abhorrent crimes, including serial rape incidents and child pornography offenses. He has secured 57 life sentences and 3074 years of imprisonment for 17 serial rapists, making him a symbol of hope in a society where horrendous crimes cause fear. His unwavering commitment and extraordinary achievements serve as a reminder that there are brave individuals in our midst who are willing to confront the worst aspects of humanity to ensure our collective safety.