The Ugu District Agriculture and Other Critical Skills Careers Expo and Economic Opportunities Exhibitions is a significant event that aims to uplift the lives of Ugu District citizens and those from surrounding areas. The event is an initiative of the Ugu District Development Model (DDM) and seeks to address the high rate of youth unemployment within the district by promoting skills development and hosting Youth Careers Exhibitions.
In July 2023, Anroux Marais, Provincial Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, hosted a recognition ceremony to honor Western Cape’s outstanding athletes and administrators. The event showcased the achievements of some of the province’s most talented sportspeople, inspiring future generations.
On the night of 25 May 2023, tragedy struck Enyobeni Tavern in Scenery Park, South Africa, claiming the lives of 21 young people who had just completed their school exams. The incident sparked a collaborative effort between government departments and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to establish the cause of the tragedy and provide answers to the bereaved families.
President Cyril Ramaphosa recently visited the Sekhukhune District at the Motodi Sports Complex in Limpopo Province. This marked the eighth successful Presidential Imbizo under the current administration, reflecting a clear commitment to community engagement and development. ## Infrastructure and Community Development
The Public Service Commission (PSC) of South Africa collaborated with the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), the National School of Government (NSG), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to organize a twoday retreat focused on the National Framework Towards the Professionalisation of the Public Sector. The event, which took place from July 13th to 14th, 2023, in Krugersdorp, aimed to bring together key stakeholders to discuss strategies for implementing the framework and addressing challenges faced by the South African public sector.
On July 6th, 2023, The Cape Peninsula Baboon Management Joint Task Team (JTT) announced the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between SANParks, CapeNature, and the City of Cape Town. The agreement lays the foundation for a more sustainable management plan for the Chacma baboon population in the Cape Peninsula.
Cape Town, the Mother City of South Africa, has made significant strides in recent years, demonstrating resilience and adaptability despite numerous challenges. With exceptional choral performances and recordbreaking infrastructure investments, Cape Town has become a beacon of progress and development, setting an example for the rest of the country and the African continent.
The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) recently participated in the BRICS Urbanization Forum, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among member countries in tackling urban growth challenges. This article explores the nuances of urbanization in BRICS nations, the impact of climate change on urban areas, the proposed BRICS Local Government Climate Change Programme and the importance of alternative funding solutions.
The Community Services and Health Directorate of the City of Cape Town has organized a series of events to celebrate Women’s Month in August. The monthlong celebration is designed to recognize the valuable contributions of women in society and empower them through various activities.
Speeches have been an integral part of human communication, influencing societies and inspiring individuals throughout history. The power of speeches lies in their ability to blend storytelling and critical reflection, engaging the intellect and leaving a lasting impact on their listeners.
The National Rural Youth Service Corps (NARYSEC) passing out parade took place on July 12th at the Dunnottar Military Base in Nigel, Gauteng. The ceremony was officiated by Ms. Thoko Didiza, the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, along with her deputies, Mr. Mcebisi Skwatsha and Ms. Zoleka Capa. The event marked a significant milestone for the young participants who underwent rigorous skills development and training via the NARYSEC program.
The Department of Employment and Labour has partnered with the Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) to host national workshops on the recently promulgated amendments to the Employment Equity Act of 1998. These amendments empower the Minister of Employment and Labour to set sectorspecific equity numerical targets and require compliance certificates as a prerequisite for accessing state contracts.
Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Honourable Bernice Swarts, recently visited the Soshanguve Township Magistrates Court to oversee the construction project aimed at providing improved access to justice services for the local community. The project is expected to be completed by December 2023, bringing the court closer to the people and making it more accessible to residents of the township.
Minister Mondli Gungubele, responsible for Communications and Digital Technologies, has announced changes to the Board of Directors of the State Information Technology Agency (SITA). The interim Board will include professionals with expertise in ICT, law, auditing, finance, human capital, and governance. These changes come after several board members resigned.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will sign the South African Sign Language (SASL) Bill into law on July 19, 2023, at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. The bill’s passing marks a historic moment in South Africa’s journey towards inclusivity and equality for the deaf and hard of hearing community.
Urban planning and design are vital components in shaping the landscape and ensuring a sustainable future for the growing population of Cape Town. The Urban Planning and Design Department of the city is working tirelessly to accommodate the rapid growth while preserving the environment and promoting equal access to opportunities. In an effort to provide insight into the world of urban planning, the Civic Centre recently hosted an exhibition showcasing the department’s ongoing initiatives.