South Africa’s National Labour Migration Policy seeks to harmonize the expectations of the populace, labour market demands, migrant worker protection, and regional integration. The policy has three critical intervention areas, emphasizes collaboration, and aims to address specific issues faced by migrant workers through data collection and analysis. A Labour Migration Policy and Governance dialogue was hosted in Mpumalanga, drawing diverse stakeholders from various sectors, and the Department of Employment and Labour is committed to developing a wellinformed NLMP that addresses concerns and benefits all parties involved.
The 2023 Women Recognition Awards celebrates female farmers’ invaluable contributions to rural development, food security, and job creation. Women in agriculture have defied the status quo and made remarkable progress, from smallscale subsistence farmers to commercial agripreneurs. Initiatives and programs have been implemented to support female farmers, providing them with access to training, funding, and mentorship opportunities. As the world faces the challenges of feeding an expanding population, the Women Recognition Awards is a celebration of progress and an acknowledgment of the integral role women play in shaping agriculture’s future.
Barbara Creecy, South Africa’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, gave opening remarks at the National Stakeholder Consultations for COP28, emphasizing the country’s commitment to sustainable development and the need for inclusive negotiations. COP28 is the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), where countries gather to discuss global efforts to combat climate change. Key agenda items include establishing a global fund for loss and damage, increasing climate finance goals, and assessing collective progress through the Global Stocktake. South Africa is actively preparing for the critical COP28 conference in December, aiming to shape the country’s negotiating position while addressing the challenges posed by climate change.
The newly enacted MHI Regulations of 2022 aim to improve workplace safety by refining and broadening protective measures related to handling bulk hazardous substances. A significant change in the updated regulations is the expectation for MHI facilities to selfregulate, which includes the adoption of incorporated standards and creation of a Major Prevention Incident Policy. The event will bring together a diverse array of stakeholders, and media participation is encouraged.
The Digital and Future Skills National Conference in South Africa addressed the urgent need for skills development to support innovation and digital transformation. With a young population, the country has immense potential to leverage the Fourth Industrial Revolution, but also a pressing need to skill, reskill, and upskill the workforce to meet the demands of the digital economy. A comprehensive strategy for digital skills development that includes both technical and soft skills is essential, along with investment in innovation hubs and publicprivate partnerships to drive innovation and bridge skills gaps.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has made remarkable progress in eradicating the illegal drug trade under General Fannie Masemola’s leadership. Recently, SAPS supervised the destruction of R800 million worth of drugs seized during operations across the country. SAPS’ persistent and diligent efforts have made a significant impact on the local drug trade and aided the global fight against organized crime, with drug demolitions becoming a regular occurrence. SAPS’ commitment to ensuring compliance, collaboration, and dedicated officers’ bravery and vigilance have made a significant contribution to creating a safer environment for all and defending citizens against the threat of illegal drug trafficking.
The Matric Class of 2023 must prioritize road safety during their National Senior Certification exams. By learning and following road rules, fostering safety awareness, and emphasizing public transportation and pedestrian safety, students can ensure a secure journey to and from school. Schools, parents, educators, and the broader community must work together to cultivate a culture of safety and accountability on the road, promoting a brighter future for everyone.
Cape Town is planning the largest social housing development in the inner city, with 1,800 units in the Salt River suburb, including 840 social rental units for families earning less than R22,000 per month, along with various onsite services. The project aims to create inclusive and diverse living environments, addressing the needs of residents and providing a highquality living space. This ambitious housing project demonstrates the city’s commitment to addressing the urgent need for affordable housing and signals a forwardthinking future for Cape Town.
What is Boatica Cape Town and why is it significant? Boatica Cape Town is the leading marine manufacturing event in Africa, offering a unique blend of business and leisure opportunities for industry participants. With significant economic relevance for Cape Town and the worldwide community, the event serves as a crucial hub for innovation and collaboration. Featuring over 70 exhibitors and 50 boats, the event is a celebration of marine ingenuity, attracting visitors and investors from around the world.
The 2023 South African municipal byelections brought significant changes in the nation’s political landscape. An Independent Candidate won a seat, while the ANC retained a seat and won another, and the DA maintained their hold on a seat. These results suggest potential shifts in the nation’s political landscape. The rise of Independent Candidate Jacobus Cornelius Stoltz in Lekwa Municipality’s Ward 04 in Mpumalanga underscores a significant shift in voter preferences. The ANC’s mixed results illustrate the intricate dynamics present in South African politics, and the DA’s performance highlights the party’s stronghold in certain regions.
The recent trial blasting at Clanwilliam Dam is a crucial milestone in the longawaited construction phase to increase the dam wall’s height by 13 meters. The project will provide additional water resources to the region’s agricultural industry, generate employment opportunities, and boost the economy along the West Coast corridor. The trial blasting involved drilling 116 holes, consuming 920 kg of explosives, and excavating approximately 1253 m3 of hard rock, paving the way for regular blasting operations and establishing safety measures. The project’s success will improve the lives of the people living in the West Coast region and contribute to overall development.
What progress has the South African Police Service made in the war on drugs? Under the leadership of General Fannie Masemola, the South African Police Service (SAPS) confiscated and destroyed illegal drugs worth R800 million in Johannesburg, Gauteng. During the 2022/2023 fiscal year, SAPS eradicated 20.8 tons of drugs with an estimated street value of R2 billion. Recent drug disposals were executed after obtaining court orders and completing associated cases. General Masemola emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders involved in border security to enhance cargo control measures.
Community Development Practitioners in South Africa were recently celebrated in a graduation ceremony organized by the Department of Social Development and the Health and Welfare Sector Education Training Authority (HWSETA). The event recognized the essential role these practitioners play in society as they provide crucial services to underprivileged rural and township communities. The initiative, known as the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), aims to professionalize Community Development Practice, contribute to a more skilled and employable workforce, and foster overall economic growth in the nation. Through their dedication, Community Development Practitioners facilitate sustainable change and development in impoverished communities and combat poverty and other social challenges.
The Soweto Parkrun is a community program that promotes healthy living through physical activity, providing accessible exercise options for all ages and fitness levels while fostering a sense of community and social engagement. The initiative addresses public health issues while promoting inclusivity and social interaction, enabling citizens to take charge of their health and wellbeing. Participants can register for free on the official website, and the program is a shining example of how public health interventions can be both meaningful and enjoyable.
The Senior Citizens Sectoral Parliament in Mahikeng is an event that aims to promote understanding, respect, and support for the dignity and rights of older individuals. It seeks to empower senior citizens by providing them with a platform to express their concerns and propose their ideas. By encouraging engagement, collaboration, and selfrepresentation among older individuals, their opinions will be taken into account across various activities that impact their lives. The ultimate goal is to enhance the dignity and wellbeing of older persons in the North West Province.
The Thuntsha Lerole Programme is a comprehensive service delivery initiative in South Africa that aims to improve the standard of living for inhabitants of Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality by offering a wide array of government services. The programme focuses on infrastructure enhancements, community development, and environmental matters, and is being implemented in local municipalities throughout the province. With a coordinated and integrated strategy, the programme serves as a model for future service delivery initiatives in South Africa.