The South African Department of Employment and Labour, in partnership with the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA), will be conducting a series of workshops from 1st to 29th August to assist designated employers in understanding the requirements for obtaining an annual Employment Equity (EE) Compliance Certificate. This certificate, which is compulsory for conducting business with the South African government, is mandated by the recent amendments to the EE Act.

South Africa is renowned for its diverse wildlife and rich natural resources. However, the country has been facing an ongoing battle against rhino poaching, which poses a significant threat to these majestic creatures’ survival. This article examines the recent efforts and progress made by South Africa’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Ms. Barbara Creecy, and her team to address this pressing issue.

Tour operators in South Africa can now breathe a sigh of relief with the resolution of issues that plagued their businesses. Minister Patricia de Lille’s announcement, following indepth engagements with the private sector and the Departments of Transport and Tourism, indicated that law enforcement would cease unduly penalizing tour operators awaiting their renewed licenses. This decision is set to considerably reduce red tape and create a more conducive environment for the growth of the tourism industry.

A recent explosion in Johannesburg has left many questioning the cause of the tragic incident. The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has confirmed that there are no old mines in the area where the explosion occurred, prompting an investigation by relevant authorities to determine its actual cause.

Cape Town, a city renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, has recently achieved an impressive milestone. Mayor Geordin HillLewis announced that the city has broken its alltime record for municipal infrastructure spending in the 2022/23 financial year, with a total expenditure of R6.94 billion.

In a significant development for South Africa’s digital infrastructure, President Cyril Ramaphosa officially launched the Huawei Innovation Centre. This stateoftheart facility aims to foster collaboration between Huawei’s business units, local partners, app developers, and ICTfocused Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). The Innovation Centre’s launch demonstrates Huawei’s confidence in South Africa’s economy and its potential to become a leading digital hub.

On 27 July 2023, the North West Provincial Legislature Speaker Basetsana R.S. Dantjie, members of the legislature, and staff commemorated Mandela Day. The team visited various centers across the four districts, bringing hope and empowerment to communities in need. The theme of this year’s Mandela Day was “The Legacy Lives on Through You,” emphasizing the ongoing influence of Mandela’s values.

The BRICS Urbanisation Forum, held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre, had the theme of “Advancing Urban Resilience for Sustainable Cities and Towns for Future Generations.” Urban growth in African countries poses significant challenges, especially in small and mediumsized towns, where people move to cities for better economic opportunities.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has been actively working with various South African student unions and university management teams to address issues related to defunded students and direct payments. The organization has engaged in discussions with the South African Students Congress (SASCO) and the South African Union of Students (SAUS) with the goal of providing clarity on its policies and receiving feedback.

In July 2023, tragedy struck the community of Site B, Khayelitsha, as a security guard lost his life, and another was injured in a violent shooting while escorting Water and Sanitation inspectors. The officials were ensuring that janitorial services for taps and toilets in the informal settlements were meeting cleanliness, repair, and maintenance standards. This incident highlights the persistent challenge of providing clean water and dignified sanitation in vulnerable communities and the dangers faced by officials in their pursuit of service delivery.

At the recent BRICS Urbanisation Forum in Durban, South Africa, Minister Thembi Nkadimeng discussed the importance of building urban resilience in BRICS cities. As urbanization continues to accelerate, cities face numerous challenges related to infrastructure, resources, and communities. To address these challenges, effective governance, policy frameworks, and collaborative efforts are essential.

Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) MEC Nonkqubela Pieters recently handed over a shearing shed and dipping tank worth R1.4 million to the Upper Mkapusi Wool Growers Association in the Emalahleni Local Municipality. The initiative is part of DRDAR’s commitment to commercialize communal and emerging farmers, provide infrastructure, and create jobs to improve business enterprises income.

The 12th session of the DRCSouth Africa Business Forum was a significant moment for the partnership between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and South Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa led the meeting, which highlighted the countries’ vast potential for industrial and economic growth. Mutual investment was emphasized as a crucial factor in strengthening their respective economies.

On July 21, 2023, South Africa witnessed a significant step forward with the Ministerial Launch of the National Tracer Study of Doctoral Graduates. The study, the first of its kind in the nation, aims to understand the role and impact of doctoral graduates in South African society and the economy. Esteemed dignitaries, including the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr. Blade Nzimande, and representatives from Science Councils and National Research Institutions, graced the occasion.