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Cape Town News
The South African government is hopeful following the country’s 0.4% increase in gross domestic product (GDP) in the first quarter of 2023. This development shows that South Africa has the potential to overcome its current economic challenges. ## Positive employment growth in South Africa
On June 5th, 2023, the community came together to celebrate World Environment Day, in partnership with the Recreation and Parks Department, communitybased groups, and volunteers. The goal of this joint effort was to promote ecological awareness, conservation, and sustainability initiatives within the community.
Minister Sihle Zikalala’s Initiative to Tackle Unfinished Infrastructure Projects in Free State Province Minister Sihle Zikalala has taken significant action to improve the public works and infrastructure sector by addressing unfinished projects in the Free State Province. On June 8, 2023, the Minister conducted inspections of various stalled projects to drive accountability and enhance service delivery.
The Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation, Dr. Blade Nzimande, has spoken out against the recent incidents of arson and vandalism at the University of Forth Hare Alice Campus. The destruction caused by the malicious acts included significant damage to the university’s property, specifically the foyer of the Indoor Sports Centre.
Cape Town’s marine manufacturing industry is currently experiencing unprecedented growth, thanks to its local talents and strong international partnerships. At the recent Boating South Africa Awards, key players in the industry were celebrated for their achievements in the past year, including new talent and work in sustainability.
The South African Department of Water and Sanitation has reintroduced their Blue Drop, Green Drop, and No Drop Watch Reports. These regulatory mechanisms were halted in 2014 but were recently revived by Minister Senzo Mchunu in late 2021. ### Enhancing Municipal Drinking Water Quality
On June 6, 2023, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed his Portuguese counterpart, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, to South Africa for his first visit to the country. The two leaders held a meeting at the Union Buildings in Pretoria and discussed various topics, including bilateral relations, energy cooperation, and pressing global issues.
Western Cape’s R5 Million Export Booster Fund: A Major Step Towards Economic Growth and Job Creation
The Western Cape Government’s Department of Economic Development and Tourism has launched the Export Competitiveness Enhancement Programme (ECEP) to support businesses working towards export readiness and expand their presence in international markets. This move aims to boost economic growth and create employment opportunities, which aligns with the provincial Growth for Jobs Strategy.
Unlocking the Potential of Cape Town’s Port: The Need for Private Sector Participation During the Ports, Customs, and Border Security Conference held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, Mayor Geordin HillLewis emphasized the importance of private sector involvement in driving economic growth and job creation at the Port of Cape Town. Efficient ports are crucial for a country’s development, and South African ports, including the historic Port of Cape Town, have been underperforming in global efficiency rankings due to the stateowned entity’s issues.
The Eastern Cape Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) has announced its transformative infrastructure development agenda, aimed at fostering hope and resilience amid socioeconomic challenges. With a budget of R2.5 billion for the 2023/24 financial year, the DPWI intends to become a ‘nerve centre’ for infrastructure development, delivery, coordination, and investment in the Eastern Cape.
The Ministry of Transport has announced the removal of Mr. Leonard Ramatlakane from his position as a board member and chairperson of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA). The decision was made following an investigation into the misuse of one of PRASA’s Cape Town properties by the chairperson, who failed to follow proper procedures.
Minister Sihle Zikalala of Public Works and Infrastructure has launched an investigation to ensure transparency and tackle questionable procurement practices related to the maintenance of government properties. This decision came in response to recent revelations of exorbitant costs for maintenance and refurbishments on various government properties in Cape Town and Pretoria.
On Sunday, 4 June 2023, a catastrophic accident occurred on the R61 highway at Dlibona location, resulting in the loss of eleven lives. The incident took place between Flagstaff and Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape, leaving the nation in mourning.
The Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has expressed her concerns regarding the misleading media reports surrounding the dismissal of former Deputy Director General, Ms. Nelly Letsholonyane. The Minister seeks to clarify the situation and set the record straight. ### Ms. Letsholonyane’s Dismissal
Kaizer Chiefs, a renowned South African football club, is on the lookout for talented midfield players to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season. They have been linked to a couple of players in recent weeks, and more names are expected to emerge as the team casts a wide net in their search.
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) in Eastern Cape and the Makana Local Municipality have joined forces to raise awareness of the consequences of water pollution and waterborne diseases. This initiative was launched because Makana was facing severe water quality challenges, and E. coli bacteria were detected in various water points within the municipality from February to May.
