On June 29, Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Sihle Zikalala, visited the Expanded Public Works Program (EPWP) project in Okhahlamba Local Municipality, KwaZuluNatal. The visit was part of the EPWP PrePresidential Imbizo, an event to engage with local community members and assess the progress of government initiatives.

South Africa’s political economy is a complex interplay of historical injustice, aspirations for equality, and challenges posed by global and domestic environments. This article provides insights into South Africa’s path towards inclusive and prosperous development by examining the challenges and opportunities faced in addressing income inequality, promoting economic transformation, managing natural resources sustainably, and fostering international partnerships.

South Africa’s political economy is a complex tapestry interwoven with historical injustices, aspirations for equality, and ongoing challenges presented by both global and domestic environments. Addressing income inequality, promoting economic transformation, managing natural resources sustainably, and fostering international partnerships are essential components of South Africa’s path towards inclusive and prosperous development.

The Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) and the Eastern Cape SocioEconomic Consultative Council (ECSSEC) are partnering to host a twoday workshop aimed at creating an Integrated Aquaculture and Fisheries Strategy for the Eastern Cape Province. This initiative recognizes the significant contribution that aquaculture and fisheries can have on the region’s food security, economic development, job creation, and rural development.

The Department of Employment and Labour recently offered a potential exemption for employers who cannot afford to pay the National Minimum Wage. This exemption was highlighted during a threeday advocacy seminar held in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, with the theme of “Paying the National Minimum Wage is the Right Thing to Do”. The event aimed to educate stakeholders on various acts, including the National Minimum Wage Act, Basic Conditions of Employment Act, Unemployment Insurance Act, and Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA) amendments.

The YizoYizo informal settlement in Rustenburg has been waiting for an upgrade for over 20 years. However, a recent announcement from Nono Maloyi, the MEC for the Department of Human Settlements in the North West, has brought hope to the over 1000 families living in the settlement.

The 15th BRICS Summit is set to take place in Johannesburg, South Africa from August 22nd to 24th, 2023. This meeting of the five major emerging national economies Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa aims to foster collaboration and cooperation on economic, political, and cultural levels. As the event approaches, organizers have opened up media accreditation for journalists to cover this significant gathering of global leaders.

Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Kenny Morolong, will lead a media engagement on June 29, 2023, ahead of the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo scheduled for June 30, 2023, at Oqungweni Sport Field in Ladysmith, KwaZuluNatal Province. ### Discussing Key Aspects

The Gauteng Provincial Legislature has recently responded to a complaint regarding the alleged violation of the Code of Conduct for its members. The complaint was lodged against Hon. Mekgwe, the Speaker of the Gauteng Legislature, Hon. NkomoRalehoko, Member of the Executive for the Department of Health, and Hon. PhaladiDigamela, the Chairperson of the Health and Wellness Committee. The complaint prompted an investigation by the Integrity Commissioner.

The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) of South Africa is launching “Vuk Talks Podcasts” on June 29, 2023. This initiative aims to increase accessibility to the Vuk’uzenzele flagship publication and cater to the techsavvy youth who prefer audio content for fastpaced, mobile news consumption.

On June 27, 2023, the City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate began emergency repairs on a 535mm diameter water pipeline in George Street, Ottery. As a result of the repair work, a significant portion of the southern Cape Flats experienced widespread water supply disruptions.

Transport Minister Ms. Sindisiwe Chikunga has expressed her deep concern over the surge in road fatalities in South Africa. Two tragic car accidents were recently reported, claiming several lives, which has raised alarm bells. ### Two Fatal Car Accidents

The North West Province is committed to accelerating road construction projects to enhance the region’s infrastructure and promote economic growth. Acting Premier Nono Maloyi has pledged to ensure that all road projects meet their deadlines and closely monitor their progress.

On June 29th, Minister Maropene Ramokgopa, who is responsible for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation in the South African Presidency, led the buildup activities in anticipation of the 7th Presidential Imbizo. The event took place on June 30th at the Uthukela District Municipality in KwaZuluNatal province.

The Disaster Risk Management Centre (DRMC) in Sarepta has been changing the narrative for many young women in the city. Through its annual program, “Women & Girls: (In)visible Force of Resilience,” the DRMC equips secondary school learners with the necessary tools to become agents of change in their communities.