Africa Oil Week 2023 focused on “Maximising Africa’s Natural Resources in the Global Energy Transition” and promoting unity and collaboration among African countries to fully utilize their natural resources and promote sustainable development. Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile emphasized the significance of unity and collaboration among African countries to address energy shortages and identify alternative sources of energy. Africa Oil Week reinforces partnerships between governments and businesses across the continent and advocated for sustainable carbon management practices in the oil and gas sector while addressing climate change.

MEC Siboniso Duma and mayors came together to explore the *potential* of using tourism to boost *economic growth* in rural and township areas. The ANC government sees tourism as a *key driver for development* and improving *quality of life* through *sustainable tourism initiatives*. *Collaboration* between local governments and entities is crucial for creating a *comprehensive strategy* for sustainable tourism that benefits the *entire community*.

The Border Management Authority (BMA) has a new spokesperson, Ms. Mmemme Mogotsi, who brings over 20 years of domestic and international communications expertise to the role. As the Deputy Assistant Commissioner and spokesperson, she will be responsible for communicating the BMA’s initiatives and achievements to the public and promoting better understanding of the organization’s role in maintaining secure borders for development. Ms. Mogotsi’s appointment is a testament to the BMA’s commitment to maintaining open communication with the public and enhancing public trust in the organization.

The City of Cape Town has launched an online booking system for managing vehicle registrations and licensing, helping residents to streamline their motor licenses and accounts. The system simplifies the process with five easy steps and sends an SMS and email confirmation containing an appointment reference, reducing waiting times and overcrowding in walkin centres. The City also offers eServices for conducting business without physical visits, and has improved facility resilience with generators, inverters, and photovoltaic solar systems at various locations.

The National Treasury has extended the application deadline for the Eskom Municipal Debt Relief Support Programme to help ease the financial pressure experienced by South African municipalities. The initiative aims to alleviate Eskom’s financial and debt crisis by providing eligible municipalities with the opportunity to apply for debt relief under strict terms and conditions. By September 22, 2023, 28 municipalities have been approved, while nine applications remain under review, and another 25 are pending submission for approval. The programme is just one aspect of a broader strategy to address the systemic issues plaguing the South African utility sector, requiring collaboration and reforms for a sustainable future.

Makwana’s exit signifies a crucial turning point in Eskom’s leadership during a time of significant restructuring and reform. The recent resignation of Mpho Makwana, Eskom’s chairperson, has created waves across South Africa’s energy sector. Makwana’s departure comes just one year after he took on the role, making him the shortestserving chairperson in the company’s history. His resignation will take effect at the end of October, following Eskom’s Annual General Meeting. Although his tenure was brief, Makwana’s exit signifies a crucial turning point in Eskom’s leadership during a period of significant restructuring and reform.