In a recent address to the 111th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva, Switzerland, South Africa’s Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi emphasized the need for accelerated global policy coordination and joint action. With only seven years to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 2030 targets, Nxesi stressed the important role of the International Labour Organization (ILO) members in facilitating dialogues and enhancing policy coherence.
Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, the Minister of Human Settlements, addressed highlevel representatives from BRICS nations at the United Nations Office in Nairobi. The Minister emphasized the importance of urban resilience for sustainable urban development. This article summarizes her discourse and the key takeaways from the meeting.
On June 1st, 2023, the BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Relations gathered in Cape Town, South Africa to discuss a range of political, economic, and social issues. The theme of the meeting was “BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development, and Inclusive Multilateralism.” The ministers emphasized the importance of solidarity, openness, and consensus in shaping global policies.
As National Environmental Month begins in South Africa, Cape Town assumes a leadership role in sustainable development and environmental initiatives. With its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems, Cape Town is an exemplar of a city that prioritizes ecological preservation. In this article, we explore the key sustainability initiatives that position Cape Town as a beacon of environmental consciousness.
Biodiversity and Climate Change: A Threat to Humanity Biodiversity loss and climate change are critical concerns that threaten the existence of humanity. Urgent action is required to safeguard ecosystems and the millions of species that rely on them.
The North West Human Settlements Investment and Alternative Building Technology Summit 2023 is an upcoming event that aims to address the housing challenges faced by the North West province. This summit will bring together stakeholders from various fields to find innovative solutions that can drive sustainable development and improve the living conditions of residents in the region.
On 19th May, President Cyril Ramaphosa led the District Development Model Presidential Imbizo in the Cape Winelands District Municipality, Western Cape. The Imbizo aimed to promote collaboration and open communication between citizens, community organizations, businesses, and the government for inclusive economic growth.
On May 19, 2023, Minister Barbara Creecy and Deputy Minister Makhotso Sotyu will hold a media briefing ahead of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment’s (DFFE) Budget Vote. The event is a critical platform for the ministry to outline its priorities for the 2023/2024 financial year, with a particular focus on forestry, fisheries, and the environment.
Minister Gwede Mantashe delivered the Mineral Resources and Energy Department’s comprehensive Budget Vote Speech, outlining the achievements and strategies for South Africa’s mining and energy sectors amidst various global and domestic challenges. ### Focus Areas
South Africa and Colombia recently celebrated a significant milestone in their longstanding relationship during an official visit by Colombian Vice President Francia Elena Márquez. Deputy President Paul Mashatile of South Africa hosted a media briefing after the meeting, which took place at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria. The two countries are aiming to strengthen their political and economic ties while acknowledging their shared colonial legacies and the vast diversity of people, culture, and ecology in both nations.
The BRICS nations, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, have made significant progress in recent years. However, with the rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape, it is crucial for these countries to demonstrate unity, solidarity, and camaraderie. The Second Employment Working Group (EWG) meeting concluded with Thobile Lamati, DirectorGeneral of the Department of Employment and Labour, emphasizing the need for member states to leverage their collective power in multilateral forums to advance common interests and protect their positions.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile of South Africa warmly received Colombian Vice President Francia Elena Márquez during her official visit to the country. This historic meeting marked the first highlevel engagement between the two nations since the establishment of diplomatic relations, signifying a significant milestone in their bilateral relationship.
As a regional power and a member of the BRICS bloc, South Africa is facing a challenging position as it attempts to navigate the complex global dynamics between the West, particularly the United States, and the BRICS countries. The country must delicately balance its relationships with both sides while also promoting its national interests.
In recent years, South Africa has seen a positive shift in its approach to human settlements, thanks to Deputy Minister Pam Tshwete and the Department of Human Settlements. With the implementation of the innovative District Development Model, various spheres of government have been able to collaborate more effectively, resulting in improved service delivery.
The investment required to conserve and restore global ecosystems has been far less than what is needed. To discuss strategies and opportunities to bridge this financing gap, the United Nations Development Programme’s Biodiversity Finance Initiative (UNDPBIOFIN) hosted the 5th Global Conference on Biodiversity Finance in Cape Town, South Africa, from May 911, 2023. The conference brought together over 180 experts and government members from 45 countries to emphasize the importance of both government and private sector involvement.
The Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation in South Africa, Dr. Blade Nzimande, recently oversaw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in Higher Education and Training between South Africa and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This partnership is significant as it reinforces their shared commitment to promoting educational excellence and equipping both nations with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the fastpaced, everchanging world.
