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Premier champions ethical leadership, accountability in building a safer KZN

Source: Government of South Africa

Premier champions ethical leadership, accountability in building a safer KZN

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, in his capacity as the Executive Authority of the Department of Community Safety and Liaison, has underscored ethical leadership, accountability, and integrity as the pillars of effective governance and community safety.

Ntuli was addressing a strategic planning session, currently underway in Richards Bay.

The two-day strategic planning session, held from 10 to 11 November 2025, brought together senior management, key stakeholders, and strategic partners to review the department’s performance and develop a comprehensive roadmap to combat crime and enhance safety across the province.

Ethical leadership and accountability

A key highlight of the planning session was a presentation on Ethical Leadership in the Public Sector, aimed at reinstilling a culture of integrity, accountability, and selfless service among departmental officials.

The presentation underscored the importance of adhering to established policies and governance frameworks to improve efficiency and service delivery.

Ntuli reaffirmed that ethical leadership remains a cornerstone of public trust and a prerequisite for effective governance.

“A professional and ethical public service is the foundation of public confidence. When leaders serve with integrity, communities respond with trust and cooperation,” Ntuli said.

The Premier urged all departmental officials to align their conduct with the highest standards of integrity, noting that ethical governance is essential for achieving lasting peace, stability, and development in KwaZulu-Natal.

Strengthening strategy and alignment 

The strategic session focused on establishing clear objectives, measurable targets, and practical interventions to address persistent crime challenges facing the province.

Participants also worked to align KwaZulu-Natal’s crime prevention strategies with national and provincial priorities, ensuring that the department’s work directly contributes to South Africa’s broader developmental and safety agenda.

“Our mission is to build safer communities through integrated, intelligence-driven, and community-led interventions. We must ensure that our policies are not only visionary but actionable, measurable, and sustainable,” the Premier said.

Premier Ntuli called on stakeholders to embrace anticipatory thinking — an approach that focuses on identifying potential crime trends, understanding causal factors, and developing innovative, evidence-based responses before challenges escalate.

He also emphasised the need for stronger interdepartmental and policy partnerships, calling for continuous collaboration between law enforcement agencies, municipalities, and community safety structures.

Diagnostic review and turnaround strategy

Acting Head of Department, Nokuthula Khanyile, presented analysis of the Department of Community Safety and Liaison, identifying operational challenges and proposing a turnaround strategy that prioritises synergy between the strategic and operational levels of the department.

Her presentation highlighted the need for improved coordination, data-driven decision-making, and proactive community engagement to improve safety outcomes and service delivery across the province.

Over the two days, officials presented analyses of crime trends, discussed innovative prevention measures, and contributed to a renewed roadmap for safety and governance.

The session reaffirmed the department’s unwavering commitment to ethical governance, strategic foresight, and collaborative action as the foundation for a safer KwaZulu-Natal.

“Our vision is clear — a KwaZulu-Natal where every citizen feels safe, protected, and empowered. This requires dedication, partnership, and a shared commitment to act,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Traffic disruptions expected as Gauteng launches joint operations ahead of G20 Summit

Source: Government of South Africa

Traffic disruptions expected as Gauteng launches joint operations ahead of G20 Summit

Gauteng motorists are advised to brace for temporary road closures and intermittent traffic disruptions in parts of Johannesburg this weekend, as law enforcement agencies step up joint operations ahead of the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit. 

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP), Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) will conduct a coordinated operation on Saturday, 15 November 2025, between 09h00 and 13h00.

According to the RTMC, the exercise forms part of heightened security and traffic management measures in preparation for the high-profile international gathering, which will see an increased movement of motorcades and official delegations across the province.

Affected areas and routes

The operation will focus on the City of Johannesburg, targeting high-security corridors and major highways. Roads expected to be affected include:

Major National and Regional Routes:

  • N1
  • M1
  • N12

Key Arterial and Urban Roads:

  • 5th Street, Maude Street, Daisy Street
  • Rivonia Road
  • Grayston Drive, Katherine Street
  • Whiteley Road
  • Melrose Boulevard
  • Athol Oaklands Road
  • Oxford Road
  • Glenhove Road
  • Jan Smuts Avenue, Winnie Mandela Drive, Hendrick Potgieter Road
  • Rand Show Road
  • Nasrec Road
  • Golden Highway (Nasrec)

Alternative routes

Motorists are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance, allow extra travel time, and use alternative routes where possible. 

  • Roodepoort area: Use Beyers Naudé Drive, Christiaan De Wet Road, or Ontdekkers Road instead of Hendrick Potgieter Road.
  • Fourways: Use Main Road, Cedar Road, or Witkoppen Road.
  • Sandton/Rosebank/Parktown: Use Corlett Drive, Sandton Drive, or 11th Avenue as alternatives to Jan Smuts, Oxford, and Rivonia Roads.
  • Southern Johannesburg (Riverlea, Nasrec, Ormonde View): Use Chris Hani Road, Main Reef Road, Crownwood Road (Fordsburg–Crown Mines), Soweto Highway, N17, Aerodrome Road, and Adcock Ingram Road.

Authorities have assured the public that clear signage, visible traffic officers, and real-time updates will be provided to assist motorists throughout the operation. Access for emergency and essential services will remain prioritised at all times.

“These measures are essential to enhance public safety, enforce traffic compliance, and support ongoing traffic law enforcement initiatives, including vehicle inspections and congestion management,” the RTMC said. – SAnews.gov.za 

DikelediM

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Marriott Bonvoy Research: South Africans Plan More Holidays in 2026 with Artificial Intelligence (AI), Lux-Scaping and Passion Pursuits on the Rise

Source: APO

  • Research among over 2,000 South African travellers reveals that nearly seven in 10 plan to take more or the same holidays in 2026
  • The use of AI to plan and research holidays has now gone mainstream, and 59% would trust it to book holiday accommodation
  • Lux-scaping – travellers booking a luxurious stay, like a spa or luxury hotel, at the start or end of their holidays – identified as a key travel trend for 2026 alongside passion pursuits

Nearly seven in ten South African travellers (69%) plan to take the same or more holidays in 2026 compared to 2025, including 49% who intend to travel more frequently, according to Marriott Bonvoy’s Ticket to Travel research (www.Marriott.com). Younger generations are leading demand, with 66% of Gen Z planning on taking more holidays next year and embracing AI planning tools, luxury add-ons, and passion-driven trips.

The research, conducted among more than 22,000 adults across 11 key travel markets in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa—including over 2,000 South Africans—reveals that South Africans are planning an average of six holidays in 2026. This includes two domestic breaks, two short-haul trips (four hours or less), and two long-haul getaways.

Among those planning holidays, the top travel destinations are South Africa (25%), England (10%), Mauritius (10%), USA (9%), Mozambique (9%), France (7%), Botswana (7%), Zanzibar (7%) and Italy (6%).

AI Goes Mainstream in Travel Planning

Artificial intelligence has become a key tool for South Africans planning their next getaway. Nearly half (49%) of travellers have used AI to plan or research a holiday, with 15% using it all the time. Younger travellers are leading adoption—66% of Gen Z and 53% of Millennials have used AI for trip planning, compared to 27% of Gen X and 22% of Baby Boomers.

Confidence is also growing: 59% say they would feel comfortable booking accommodation through AI platforms such as ChatGPT, rising to 67% among Gen Z. Only 12% say the idea makes them uncomfortable.

‘Lux-Scaping’ Emerges as a Defining 2026 Travel Trend

‘Lux-scaping’—booking a luxurious stay such as a spa retreat or five-star hotel at the start or end of a holiday—has emerged as a defining 2026 trend. Two-thirds (64%) of South Africans have lux-scaped before, surpassing the EMEA average of 59%. The trend is especially popular among younger generations, with 74% of Gen Z and 67% of Millennials embracing the approach.

Travellers cite the top benefits of lux-scaping as helping them relax and get into the holiday mindset (49%), return home refreshed (46%), give themselves a treat (41%) and enjoy a level of luxury they might not afford for a full trip (33%).

When asked what experiences and services they expect from a 5-star escape, luxury travellers in South African prioritise curated activities such as adventure excursions, wine tastings or private chef experiences (41%), followed by exclusive access to beaches and pools (36%) and all-inclusive stays (34%).

Passion Pursuits Take Centre Stage

Another major trend shaping 2026 travel is the rise of ‘passion pursuits’—holidays built around personal interests such as music, sport, or adventure. Over seven in ten (73%) South Africans have taken a passion-led holiday, higher than the EMEA average (68%), and one in five (19%) do so several times a year.

This trend is especially strong among Gen Z (84%) and Millennials (76%), who are using travel to deepen their engagement with the things they love. The most popular passion pursuits are travelling to see or participate in a music or cultural event (58%), watching or playing a sport (56%), and adventurous explorations like a safari or trek (39%).

Together Time Tops Travel Priorities

When choosing accommodation, the ‘brilliant basics’ remain top priorities: cleanliness (96%), customer service (95%), and price (93%) lead the list. South Africans are strongly family-orientated, preferring to travel with family or children (44%) rather than with partners (35%) or friends (12%) while only seven percent prefer to travel alone.

‘Spending time with family and friends’ (53%) remains the top travel priority, followed by ‘great food and drink options (48%), treating themselves (40%), and time in nature (40%).

Smart Spending, Savvy Travellers

South Africans remain financially savvy, finding ways to make their money go further. Price is a key driver, with 51% saying they’ll book a holiday if a special price is available – the highest across the EMEA region.

Travellers are also making smart use of loyalty programmes to maximise value: 42% say hotel loyalty programmes influence where they stay (compared to 32% across EMEA), while 27% would go ahead and book, if they could earn loyalty points.

South Africans are equally focused on maximising experiences once travelling. ‘Country hopping’ – visiting multiple countries on one trip – is on the rise, with 45% saying they will ‘probably’ or ‘definitely’ do this next year, increasing to 52% among Gen Z.

Sustainability Continues to Shape Decisions

South Africans continue to place sustainability at the heart of their holiday choices. Three-quarters (76%) of South African travellers have looked into the environmental impact of their holidays, while 59% checked the sustainability credentials of their accommodation before booking — the highest proportion across EMEA.

“South African travellers are entering a new era of exploration — planning their holidays with sustainability in mind, while being more selective about how they spend and who they travel with,” said Dorcas Dlamini Mbele, Senior Director, Commercial – Sub-Saharan Africa, Marriott International.

“Younger generations are especially enthusiastic, taking more trips and embracing new ways of planning — from using AI to building multi-country itineraries. At the same time, holidays are increasingly centred on what matters most, whether that’s spending time with friends and family, enjoying great food, pursuing their passions through music, sport or adventure, or adding a touch of luxury to a getaway. The clear message is one of optimism, with travel continuing to be a top priority across South Africa.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Marriott International, Inc..

Notes to Editors:
*Research conducted by Mortar Research amongst 2,045 adults in South Africa between 14th-21st July 2025, as part of wider research among 22,266 adults in the UK, Italy, Spain, Germany, France, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Poland, Türkiye, South Africa, and Egypt. There is a minimum of 2,000 respondents per market.    

When referencing the Generations, please see below the age groups that are referenced:

  • Generation Z: 18 to 28 year-olds
  • Millennials: 29 to 44 year-olds
  • Generation X: 45 – 60 year-olds
  • Baby Boomers: 61 – 79 year-olds
  • Silent Generation: 80 – 97 year-olds

For more information, please contact:
Birgit Deibele
Senior Director of Communications for Sub-Saharan Africa
Marriott International
Email: Birgit.Deibele@marriott.com

Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/47OllUV
X: https://apo-opa.co/4nOXx9G
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4nRxkqZ
TikTok: https://apo-opa.co/3XrkBAg

About Marriott Bonvoy®:
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of more than 30 extraordinary hotel brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit www.MarriottBonvoy.com. To download the Marriott Bonvoy app, go here (https://apo-opa.co/4nKdzkZ). 

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Call for Entries Issued for the 2026 Middle East & North Africa Stevie® Awards

Source: APO

The Stevie® Awards (https://www.StevieAwards.com), organizer of the world’s premier business awards programs, has issued a call for entries for the 2026 (seventh annual) Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, sponsored by the RAK Chamber of Commerce & Industry (http://www.RAKChamber.ae/). Entry kits and complete details on the competition are available at https://MENA.StevieAwards.com.

The Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards are the region’s only awards program to recognize innovation in the workplace in all its forms. The awards are open to all organizations within 18 nations in the MENA region: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, Türkiye, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

All individuals and organizations – public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small – may submit any number of nominations to any number of the categories.

There are no entry fees in this awards program. Organizations may submit as many nominations as they would like, without cost. Instead, Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Award winners can choose to pay a “winners fee” for each successful nomination to maintain their Stevie winner status.

Nominations may be submitted online through two entry deadlines. Winning nominations submitted through the first deadline, 3 December 2025, will have reduced winners’ fees. 21 January 2026, is the second and final entry deadline.

Winners of the Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Awards in the competition will be announced on 16 April 2026, and celebrated during a gala event at the InterContinental Hotel in Istanbul, Türkiye, on 14 May 2026.

New for the 2026 Competition

The 2026 competition introduces several new and expanded category groups, including AI Innovation Awards (https://apo-opa.co/3JQW8RP) recognizing the achievements of individuals and organizations in Artificial Intelligence, and Public Sector Innovators (https://apo-opa.co/3LwT2mC), , honoring innovation and excellence in government and public service. Other category groups with new award categories include Sustainability, Technology, Customer Service, Marketing, and Human Resources.

Nominations citing innovative achievements will be accepted and judged in both Arabic and English, in more than 150 categories across the following category groups:

• AI Innovation (https://apo-opa.co/3JQW8RP)
• Apps & Websites (https://apo-opa.co/4oKt4dS)
• Achievements (https://apo-opa.co/497sWQV)
• Annual Reports & Other Publications (https://apo-opa.co/4hSzGo1)
• Company/Organization (https://apo-opa.co/49ecmPw)
• Corporate Communications & Public Relations (https://apo-opa.co/3LC9WQI)
• Customer Service (https://apo-opa.co/47PNScG)
• Human Resources (https://apo-opa.co/4oCh2Dw)
• Individual Professionals (https://apo-opa.co/49IaP4b)
• Live & Virtual Events (https://apo-opa.co/43WFUNT)
• Management (https://apo-opa.co/3Lw7Z8t)
• Marketing (https://apo-opa.co/4owmwPX)
• New Products & Services (https://apo-opa.co/4oKt4uo)
• Public Sector Innovators (https://apo-opa.co/3LwT2mC)
• Social Media (https://apo-opa.co/4hXgCVM)
• Sustainability (https://apo-opa.co/43ner7Z)
• Technology (https://apo-opa.co/49KWCU4)
• Videos (https://apo-opa.co/3JMPZGr)
• Thought Leadership (https://apo-opa.co/4hT50CY)

New Website and Entry System

For the 2026 Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards program, a new website and entry system have been introduced to make participation easier and more efficient than ever before. Entrants can now use a single account to access the entry system for all nine Stevie Awards programs, submit and manage nominations seamlessly, and enter directly from any device. The platform supports over 30 languages with automatic translation for judging and offers multiple convenient payment options, ensuring a smooth and accessible experience for participants across the region.

Winners of the 2025 edition with multiple Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Awards include Abdulla Almazrouei Advocates & Legal Consultants, Abu Dhabi Customs, Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), ADNOC Logistics & Services, Alef Education, Barns (Saudi Arabia), DAMAC Properties, Deloitte & Touche (M.E.), DHL Express (across multiple MENA locations), Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, Emirates Health Services, Etihad Aviation Group, First Abu Dhabi Bank, Ministry of Finance (Saudi Arabia), Ooredoo Group (Qatar), Petromin Express (Saudi Arabia), Public Works Authority – Ashghal (Qatar), QNB Türkiye, RAK Police, Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu, Saudi Aramco, Sharjah Economic Development Department, Silal (Abu Dhabi), STC (Saudi Telecom Company), Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Turkcell, VUMI Global, Yalla Group (UAE), and ZIGMA8 | 360º Creative Communications, among others.

The 2026 competition will be judged by more than 150 professionals around the world. Those who wish to apply to participate on one of the juries may do so at https://apo-opa.co/445vdsn

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards.

Contact:
May Hassan
May@StevieAwards.com

About the Stevie® Awards:
Stevie Awards are conferred in nine programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards®, The International Business Awards®, the Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service, and the Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence. Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 nominations each year from organizations in more than 70 nations and territories. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at https://www.StevieAwards.com.

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Ouverture des candidatures pour les Stevie® Awards 2026 du Moyen-Orient et d’Afrique du Nord

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Les Stevie® Awards (https://www.StevieAwards.com), organisateurs des programmes de récompenses d’entreprise les plus prestigieux au monde, ont lancé l’appel à candidatures pour l’édition 2026 (septième édition annuelle) des Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, parrainés par la Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de RAK (http://www.RAKChamber.ae/). Les dossiers de candidature et l’ensemble des détails de la compétition sont disponibles sur https://MENA.StevieAwards.com.

Les Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards constituent le seul programme de récompenses de la région à reconnaître l’innovation en entreprise sous toutes ses formes. Le concours est ouvert à toutes les organisations de 18 pays de la région MENA : Algérie, Arabie saoudite, Bahreïn, Égypte, Émirats arabes unis, Irak, Iran, Jordanie, Koweït, Liban, Maroc, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Syrie, Tunisie, Türkiye et Yémen.

Tous les individus et organisations, publics et privés, à but lucratif et non lucratif, grandes et petites entreprises, peuvent soumettre autant de candidatures qu’ils le souhaitent dans n’importe quelle catégorie.

Ce programme de récompenses ne comporte aucun frais d’inscription. Les organisations peuvent soumettre autant de candidatures qu’elles le désirent, sans frais. En revanche, les lauréats des Stevie Awards Or, Argent et Bronze peuvent choisir de payer des « frais de gagnant » pour chaque candidature retenue afin de maintenir leur statut de lauréat Stevie.

Les candidatures peuvent être soumises en ligne selon deux dates limites. Les candidatures gagnantes déposées avant la première échéance, le 3 décembre 2025, bénéficieront de frais de gagnant réduits. La seconde et dernière date limite est fixée au 21 janvier 2026.

Les lauréats des Stevie Awards Or, Argent et Bronze de la compétition seront annoncés le 16 avril 2026 et célébrés lors d’une soirée de gala à l’hôtel InterContinental d’Istanbul, en Türkiye, le 14 mai 2026.

Nouveautés de l’édition 2026

L’édition 2026 introduit plusieurs nouveaux groupes de catégories élargis, notamment les AI Innovation Awards (https://apo-opa.co/3JQW8RP) récompensant les réalisations d’individus et d’organisations en intelligence artificielle, ainsi que les Public Sector Innovators (https://apo-opa.co/3LwT2mC), honorant l’innovation et l’excellence dans les services gouvernementaux et publics. D’autres groupes de catégories comportent de nouvelles distinctions, notamment dans les domaines de la durabilité, de la technologie, du service client, du marketing et des ressources humaines.

Les candidatures mettant en avant des réalisations innovantes seront acceptées et jugées en arabe et en anglais, dans plus de 150 catégories réparties dans les groupes suivants :

• Innovation en IA (https://apo-opa.co/3JQW8RP)

• Applications et sites web (https://apo-opa.co/47OAea1)

• Réalisations (https://apo-opa.co/497sWQV)

• Rapports annuels et autres publications (https://apo-opa.co/4hSzGo1)

• Entreprise/Organisation (https://apo-opa.co/49ecmPw)

• Communications d’entreprise et relations publiques (https://apo-opa.co/3LC9WQI)

• Service client (https://apo-opa.co/47PNScG)

• Ressources humaines (https://apo-opa.co/4oCh2Dw)

• Professionnels individuels (https://apo-opa.co/49IaP4b)

• Événements en présentiel et virtuels (https://apo-opa.co/43WFUNT)

• Management (https://apo-opa.co/3Lw7Z8t)

• Marketing (https://apo-opa.co/4owmwPX)

• Nouveaux produits et services (https://apo-opa.co/4oKt4uo)

• Innovateurs du secteur public (https://apo-opa.co/3LwT2mC)

• Médias sociaux (https://apo-opa.co/4hXgCVM)

• Durabilité (https://apo-opa.co/43ner7Z)

• Technologie (https://apo-opa.co/49KWCU4)

• Vidéos (https://apo-opa.co/3JMPZGr)

• Leadership d’opinion (https://apo-opa.co/4hT50CY)

Nouveau site web et système d’inscription

Pour l’édition 2026 des Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, un nouveau site web et un nouveau système d’inscription ont été introduits afin de faciliter et d’optimiser la participation. Les candidats peuvent désormais utiliser un compte unique pour accéder au système d’inscription des neuf programmes Stevie Awards, soumettre et gérer leurs candidatures en toute fluidité, et s’inscrire directement depuis n’importe quel appareil. La plateforme prend en charge plus de 30 langues avec traduction automatique pour l’évaluation et offre plusieurs options de paiement pratiques, garantissant une expérience fluide et accessible aux participants de toute la région.

Parmi les lauréats de l’édition 2025 ayant remporté de multiples Stevie Awards Or, Argent et Bronze, on compte notamment Abdulla Almazrouei Advocates & Legal Consultants, Abu Dhabi Customs, Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), ADNOC Logistics & Services, Alef Education, Barns (Arabie saoudite), DAMAC Properties, Deloitte & Touche (M.E.), DHL Express (dans plusieurs sites MENA), Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, Emirates Health Services, Etihad Aviation Group, First Abu Dhabi Bank, le ministère des Finances (Arabie saoudite), Ooredoo Group (Qatar), Petromin Express (Arabie saoudite), Public Works Authority – Ashghal (Qatar), QNB Türkiye, RAK Police, Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu, Saudi Aramco, Sharjah Economic Development Department, Silal (Abu Dhabi), STC (Saudi Telecom Company), Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Turkcell, VUMI Global, Yalla Group (EAU) et ZIGMA8 | 360º Creative Communications, entre autres.

L’édition 2026 sera évaluée par plus de 150 professionnels du monde entier. Les personnes souhaitant postuler pour participer à l’un des jurys peuvent le faire sur https://apo-opa.co/445vdsn.

Distribué par APO Group pour Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards.

Contact:
May Hassan
May@StevieAwards.com

À propos des Stevie® Awards :
Les Stevie Awards sont décernés dans le cadre de neuf programmes : les Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, les German Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards®, The International Business Awards®, les Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, les Stevie Awards for Women in Business, les Stevie Awards for Great Employers, les Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service et les Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence. Les compétitions Stevie Awards reçoivent chaque année plus de 12 000 candidatures provenant d’organisations de plus de 70 pays et territoires. En honorant des organisations de tous types et de toutes tailles ainsi que les personnes qui les composent, les Stevie récompensent l’excellence professionnelle à travers le monde. Pour en savoir plus sur les Stevie Awards, consultez https://www.StevieAwards.com.

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Implementation of AARTO postponed to July 2026

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Transport has postponed the implementation of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act to 1 July 2026.

The nationwide rollout of AARTO was initially scheduled to begin on 1 December 2025.

In a statement issued on Monday, the department said the postponement comes amid an assessment of the state of readiness in some of the municipalities identified for the first phase of implementation.

According to the department, the assessment revealed several areas that require further attention before the system can be rolled out effectively. These include the finalisation of training of both law enforcement officers and back-office personnel, as well as the harmonisation of current law enforcement system used by various municipalities, and funding to align with AARTO requirements.

“The department will soon publish the new proclamation with new staggered implementation dates, the 1st of July 2026 being the official implementation date. The phased approach of implementation will still be maintained as initially envisaged,” the department said.

The AARTO Act is aimed at promoting safer roads through a uniform system of traffic law enforcement and the introduction of a demerit points system for offenders.

The AARTO Act provides for a system whereby a person, operator or juristic person who is not an operator, pays the penalty and incurs points when a traffic infringement is committed.

The system will involve demerit points being allocated according to the severity of infringements committed.

Under the demerit system, vehicles are not punished by the system, but the operator /juristic person is held responsible for the use of the vehicle.

Upon implementation of the demerit system, everyone will commence with zero points.

Ensuring coordinated rollout nationwide

Welcoming the announcement, Western Cape MEC for Mobility Isaac Sileku said the postponement provides much-needed space to ensure that every municipality, enforcement agency, and operational team is fully prepared for this important transition.

Sileku said with national assessments highlighting gaps in training, system harmonisation, and funding, the additional time will help ensure a more efficient and coordinated rollout nationwide.

“This deferment is an opportunity to do things properly. We must walk this road together as all spheres of government and stakeholders. A successful transition depends on alignment, readiness, and making sure no one is left behind. That is how we build a safer, more efficient mobility system for everyone,” the MEC said.

The Western Cape Government reaffirmed its commitment to cooperative governance and engaging actively with national and local partners as the new phased timelines unfold. – SAnews.gov.za

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Call for communities to partner with police to fight crime

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, November 11, 2025

Gauteng communities have been encouraged to continue their partnership in the fight against crime with the South African Police Service (SAPS).

“We encourage the community to continue their partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the fight against crime. Residents are urged to report any suspicious and criminal activities as well as tip-offs to SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111 and may do so anonymously,” said Gauteng police in a statement on Monday.

This as the Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) executed multiple operations which started on Monday, 3 November 2025, resulting in the arrest of 15 individuals across various communities, including Westbury, Reiger Park, Mapetla, Boksburg and Johannesburg Central.

The arrests were made for various offences, including possession of an unlicensed firearm, illegal possession of ammunition, resisting arrest, interfering with police duties and possession of drugs.

Throughout the week, the AGU’s proactive operations led to significant seizures, including a 9mm Glock 19 Gen 4 firearm, four rounds of live ammunition, 423 grams crystal meth, 218 grams methcathinone (CAT), 192 full mandrax tablets, 153 halves of mandrax tablets as well as cash, among others.

“These successful outcomes are a testament to the collaborative efforts between the AGU and the community, with many of the arrests resulting from valuable information provided by local residents, along with regular stop-and-search initiatives conducted by the dedicated AGU team,” the police said in a statement on Monday.

The arrested suspects were due to appear in court.

The SAPS urged residents to report any suspicious and criminal activities as well as tip-offs to SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111 and may do so anonymously. – SAnews.gov.za

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Weather warnings for several provinces

Source: Government of South Africa

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a yellow level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms over parts of Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and KwaZulu-Natal.

According to the Weather Service, the yellow level 2 warning is valid from Tuesday, 11 November 2025, between 12:00 and 21:59, covering Gauteng, the escarpment and the Highveld of Mpumalanga, and the southwestern Bushveld of Limpopo.

Additionally, a level 4 warning has been issued for KwaZulu-Natal. 

“Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers, accompanied by possible heavy downpours, damaging winds, large amounts of small hail and lightning leading to localised flooding of susceptible roads, low-lying areas and bridges, minor vehicle accidents and localized damage to infrastructure, settlements (informal), property, vehicles, livelihood and livestock are expected over Gauteng, the escarpment and Highveld of Mpumalanga as well as the southwestern Bushveld of Limpopo,” SAWS said in a post on social media platform, X.  

The expected impacts include:
•    Localised damage to infrastructure, settlements (informal), property, vehicles, livelihood and livestock.
•    Localised flooding of susceptible roads, low-lying areas and bridges.
•    Large amounts of small hail and falling trees blocking minor roads.

Meanwhile, KwaZulu-Natal is under a yellow level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms, valid from Monday at 11:00 until Tuesday at 23:59.

“A surface trough deepening into the central interior associated with a broad upper air trough. As a result, scattered showers and thundershowers are expected over KwaZulu-Natal …but isolated in the eastern parts. Some of these thunderstorms are expected to become severe in the western parts, and will be accompanied by heavy downpours, damaging winds, excessive lightning and hail,” said SAWS.

The Weather Service further warned of several possible impacts in KwaZulu-Natal, including:
•    Flooding of roads and bridges as well as formal and informal settlements.
•    Hail resulting in infrastructure damage.
•    Danger to life due to fast flowing water or streams.
•    Major travel disruptions and route obstructions.
•    Damage or loss of infrastructure and settlements.

Residents across all affected provinces are advised to remain vigilant, avoid flooded areas, and follow official weather updates. – SAnews.gov.za

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Nationwide Safer Festive Season Operation reaps rewards

Source: Government of South Africa

The South African Police Service (SAPS) is implementing a nationwide Safer Festive Season Operation alongside Operation Shanela II in the fight against crime ahead of the festive season. 

“These intensified intelligence-led driven operations resulted in the arrest of 17 817 suspects from 03 to 09 November 2025 across multiple provinces,” the police said in a statement.

The week-long operations saw police tracking down and apprehending 2 843 wanted suspects for serious crimes such as murder, rape, car hijackings, drug trafficking, robberies and sexual offences.

The number of national arrests are as follows: 

  • Murder: 145
  • Attempted murder: 154
  • Rape: 137
  • Assault grievous bodily harm: 1 505
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs: 630
  • Illegal migrants: 1 366
  • Illegal dealing in liquor: 921
  • Illegal possession of firearms: 85
  • Dangerous weapons possession: 529
  • Possession of drugs: 3 255
  • Dealing in drugs: 293

The police added that contraband to the value of more than R18.9 million was seized during this period; 121 firearms were seized, including 9 rifles, 4 homemade, 4 shotguns; 2 238 rounds of ammunition were seized; 48 vehicles were seized as well as 871 dangerous weapons.

Police, in collaboration with Interpol NCB Pretoria members, rescued three Botswana nationals, aged between 20 and 23 years, who fell victim to human trafficking at OR Tambo International on 07 November 2025.

Also, the Gauteng Counterfeit Unit, in collaboration with National Head Office Counterfeit, Border Police, Public Order Police, Commercial Unit, and brand protectors, conducted an operation targeting counterfeit goods in Johannesburg Central on Friday, 7 November 2025. The operation resulted in the seizure of counterfeit goods valued at R11.4 million, including clothes, shoes, embroidery machines, printing machines, stickers and packaging materials.

Four suspected cash-in-transit robbers were shot and killed in a shootout with police and other law enforcement officers in Bronkhorstspruit on 07 November 2025. The fifth suspect was arrested, and three firearms, including two rifles and magazines, loaded with ammunition as well as a Mercedes Benz, were seized during the operation.

In Limpopo on 04 November 2025, a 54-year-old male suspect, who is the brother of former police officer Rachel Kutumela, was arrested in connection with the ongoing R10 million insurance murder, fraud and money laundering case in Moletjie, outside Seshego.

In the Western Cape, police arrested four suspects believed to be behind the brutal murder cases in Philippi East on 30 September 2025, where victims were shot and set alight.

Members of Operation Lockdown III and the Endangered Species K9 Unit arrested Chinese and Malawian nationals for possession of abalone worth more than R3 million in Primrose Park on 07 November 2025. Drying equipment and gas cylinders were also confiscated.

In Ngome in KwaZulu-Natal, a 48-year-old suspect was arrested after he allegedly burnt his 41-year-old girlfriend to death and hacked her 28-year-old daughter with an axe before raping her 13-year-old daughter on 06 November 2025.

In Mpumalanga, police intercepted a truck transporting suspected illicit goods on the N4 in Middelburg, and three suspects aged between 30 and 38 years were arrested on the scene. They seized counterfeit and illicit goods, including sneakers, slides, soccer boots, and different brands of flip-flops worth R1 million.

In the Northern Cape, police intercepted a vehicle at the N7 Road and uncovered dagga worth R7.7 million. Two suspects were arrested, and the vehicle used in the commission of crime was also confiscated.

In Libode, in the Eastern Cape, a 34-year-old suspect was arrested for the possession of an unlicensed AK-47 and ammunition and found to be in possession of drugs on 05 November 2025.

The South African Police Service said it continues to urge communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity as the festive season intensifies. – SAnews.gov.za

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Limpopo police arrests suspects linked to a series of crimes

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, November 11, 2025

Limpopo police have arrested three foreign nationals believed to be behind a string of burglary, cable theft and solar battery theft cases across the province.

The suspects, aged between 29 and 35, were arrested in a joint operation by the Limpopo Provincial Flying Squad, Tracker Connect, and Nare Anti-Poaching Security between Sunday evening and early Monday morning.

According to police, the team intercepted a grey Toyota Etios that had been flagged for its involvement in multiple crimes in the Mogwadi, Polokwane and Groblersdal areas.

“Members of the unit were activated following information about a grey Toyota Etios allegedly used by suspects wanted for several cases of burglary, cable theft and solar battery theft committed in the Mogwadi policing area between March and October 2025,” police said.

When officers stopped the vehicle, they discovered it had false registration plates and a tampered Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), confirming it had been stolen.

All three suspects were arrested on the spot and face multiple charges, including possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle and contravention of the Immigration Act.

Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, applauded the team’s swift action and coordination.

“The outstanding performance of our members and partners continues to make a meaningful impact in our fight against organised crime in Limpopo,” Hadebe said.

Police investigations are ongoing.

— SAnews.gov.za