New Ministers sworn into office

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially sworn into office two newly appointed members of the National Executive at a ceremony held at the Union Buildings, in Pretoria, on Monday.

In a light-hearted and historic moment, the President opened the ceremony by noting the presence of a young guest.
“This indeed is a very special swearing in of the Minister and a Deputy Minister, not so much because of that, because of that little baby in attendance. It is the very first time we swear in people and there is a little baby in attendance,” the President said. 

Willem Abraham Stephanus Aucamp was sworn in as the new Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, following his appointment in terms of Section 91(3)(b) of the Constitution. 

“Acting Deputy Judge President, designate Minister and Deputy Minister, and all in attendance in terms of the powers vested in me by Section 91(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 1996, I have decided to appoint the following person as Minister for the portfolio indicated in the signed president’s act, Mr. Willem Abraham Stefano Aucamp as Minister of Forestry, fisheries and the Environment. 

“I now request the Acting Judge President to either swear or affirm him into office,” the President said. 

Alexandra Lilian Amelia Abrahams was then sworn in as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, appointed in terms of Section 93(1)(a) of the Constitution. 

“In terms of the powers vested in me by Section 91(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 1996, I have decided to appoint following person, Ms Alexandra Lilian Amelia Abrahams as Deputy minister in the portfolio of the of Trade, Industry and Competition, I now request the Acting Deputy Judge President to either swear or affirm her into office,” the President said. 

The ceremony, which was presided over by Acting Deputy Judge President of the Gauteng High Court Sulet Potterill was attended by members of the judiciary, senior government officials, and members of the media. 

READ | Swearing-in ceremony of new members of National Executive to be held

President Ramaphosa who celebrates his birthday today, congratulated both appointees while posing for photographs along with their families. – SAnews.gov.za

Welisizwe bridge to improve mobility in for eMaXesibeni community

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, November 17, 2025

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson, together with his Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala, will on Tuesday hand over a Welisizwe rural bridge in the Eastern Cape.

The bridge spans the Umzimvubu River at Tebe-Tebe in eMaXesibeni, Alfred Nzo District Municipality, in the Eastern Cape. 

According to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, the bridge will provide safe and reliable access for residents of Welakabini and Esihlahleni, who have faced hazardous conditions, particularly during heavy rainfall.

The Minister and Deputy Minister will be joined by the Executive Mayor of the Alfred Nzo District Municipality, Vukile Mhlelembana, and the Mayor of Umzimvubu Local Municipality, Zukiswa Ndevu.

“Through the Welisizwe Rural Bridge Programme, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure aims to construct 96 bridges in rural communities each year, working in collaboration with the South African National Defence Force to connect communities to schools, hospitals and other essential services,” the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay : la nouvelle adresse signature qui réinvente l’art de vivre en bord d’océan au Maroc

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Radisson Hotel Group (www.RadissonHotels.com) dévoile Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay (http://apo-opa.co/47YRVUf), une nouvelle retraite contemporaine installée au cœur de la destination Taghazout Bay, Juchée sur les collines baignées de lumière, face à l’Atlantique et à son horizon infini, cette adresse d’exception propose 208 appartements avec services hôteliers, un court de padel, deux piscines extérieures et un espace dédié aux familles : un écrin où souffle l’esprit de la côte, entre nature brute, élégance discrète et liberté totale.

Ce nouvel hébergement hôtelier développé par la Société d’Aménagement et de Promotion de la Station de Taghazout (SAPST). et géré sous la marque Radisson Résidences Taghazout Bay (http://apo-opa.co/47YRVUf), offre une capacité litière additionnelle de 832 lits portant ainsi la capacité totale de la destination à plus de 4000 lits.

Un emplacement suspendu entre ciel et océan:

Surplombant la baie dans un décor naturel spectaculaire, la résidence profite d’un emplacement aussi stratégique qu’inspirant. À quelques pas du parcours de golf international Tazegzout et à seulement deux minutes de navette de la plage, elle invite à embrasser l’âme authentique du littoral marocain.

Taghazout Village, avec ses cafés surf, son énergie bohème et son charme marin irrésistible, se trouve à cinq minutes en voiture. À proximité : plages dorées à perte de vue, falaises sculptées par le vent, criques sauvages et une atmosphère chaleureuse où chaque instant incite à ralentir, contempler et savourer.

Une destination en plein essor:

“ Taghazout Bay s’affirme comme l’une des destinations côtières les plus captivantes d’Afrique du Nord. Cette ouverture illustre notre volonté d’investir dans des lieux de villégiature à fort potentiel, en offrant à nos hôtes des espaces où ralentir, trouver leur équilibre et vivre des moments qui comptent. Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay incarne ce nouveau souffle : un refuge entre nature et élégance, pensé pour la détente et la connexion”, déclare Tim Cordon, COO Moyen-Orient, Afrique & Asie-Pacifique du Sud-Est, Radisson Hotel Group.

Le confort d’une maison, l’expérience Radisson en plus:

Les 208 appartements, de deux ou trois chambres, associent l’indépendance chaleureuse d’un chez-soi à la simplicité et la sérénité de l’hospitalité scandinave signée Radisson. Chaque unité dispose d’une cuisine entièrement équipée, de vastes espaces de vie et d’une terrasse ou d’un balcon privé offrant une communion directe avec les éléments.

Familles, amis, voyageurs longue durée ou amoureux de liberté y trouveront un cadre idéal pour vivre à leur rythme, entre cocon intime et services haut de gamme. Ici, les journées se vivent selon l’humeur : paresse ensoleillée, aventures marines, escapades surf ou moments suspendus face à la mer.

Architecture organique, âme locale:

Pensée pour s’intégrer harmonieusement à son environnement, la résidence s’articule autour de douze bâtiments bas aux teintes sable, évoquant le paysage minéral de la côte atlantique. Jardins d’arganiers, plantes résistantes à la sécheresse, nuances terre, textures naturelles : chaque détail célèbre la beauté brute du lieu.

Les intérieurs adoptent une esthétique minimaliste, douce et raffinée: souvenirs de bois blond, palette inspirée du littoral, matières brutes. Un sans-faute d’élégance calme.

Des expériences pour vibrer, respirer et s’évader

Deux piscines extérieures rythment les journées :

  • un bassin central, convivial et animé
     
  • une piscine panoramique tournée vers l’océan, promesse de moments suspendus

Les plus actifs apprécieront le tout nouveau court de padel, tandis que les curieux se laisseront porter par les trésors alentours : le musée Targant, le skatepark emblématique de Taghazout, le célèbre Souk El Had à 20 minutes, ou encore les dunes de Timlalin, sublimes au coucher du soleil pour une session de sandboard inoubliable.

Et pour les épicuriens : poissons frais au port d’Imi Ouaddar, cafés iodés face aux vagues, découverte de nouveaux spots de surf le long de la côte. Le voyage prend ici la forme d’un art de vivre.

Un équilibre parfait entre liberté et service hôtelier:

“ À Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay, nous offrons la flexibilité d’une résidence avec des cuisines entièrement équipées pour ceux qui souhaitent se sentir chez eux, tout en donnant accès au confort et aux services du Radisson Blu Resort Taghazout Bay Surf Village voisin. C’est la rencontre idéale entre indépendance et hospitalité, au cœur l’un des plus majestueux paysages marins du Maroc”, partage Jean-Baptiste Bohler, Cluster General Manager.

Une nouvelle façon d’habiter le voyage:

Avec cette ouverture, Radisson Hotel Group renforce sa présence au Maroc et propose une expérience nouvelle : un art de vivre tourné vers l’extérieur, l’espace, la lumière, et la douceur d’être pleinement présent. Une adresse qui capture l’essence de Taghazout : libre, solaire, inspirante.

La destination Taghazout Bay poursuit son développement avec le lancement de Radisson Résidences Taghazout Bay. Ce projet innovant répond aux objectifs stratégiques d’extension de la capacité litière de la destination, de diversification de la clientèle, en ciblant notamment les familles, les séjours communautaires et les digital nomads. Elle offre également une formule d’investissement résidentiel meublé pour les particuliers. » déclare Fatima-Zahrae Berrada, Directrice Générale de la Société d’Aménagement et de Promotion de la Station de Taghazout (SAPST).

Pour plus d’informations et pour réserver, cliquez ici : http://apo-opa.co/47YRVUf.

Distribué par APO Group pour Radisson Hotel Group.

Contact média :
Saadiyah Hendricks,

Directrice Régionale RP & Social Media,
Moyen Orient,
Afrique et Méditerranée
saadiyah.hendricks@radissonhotels.com

Nataliya Tkachenko,
Directrice associée,
Communication et Relations Presse,
Radisson Hotel Group
nataliya.tkachenko@radissonhotels.com  

Réseaux sociaux :
Contactez Radisson sur : 
LinkedIn : http://apo-opa.co/47MXKW0 
Instagram : https://apo-opa.co/4826TJd
X : http://apo-opa.co/49omvZW 
Facebook : http://apo-opa.co/4o3rEtY  
YouTube : https://apo-opa.co/3JOixPT 
TikTok : http://apo-opa.co/3JDA3X5

Connectez-vous avec Radisson Hotels sur :
LinkedIn
Instagram  
Twitter
Facebook
YouTube

A Propos du Radisson Hotel Group :
Le Radisson Hotel Group, acteur majeur de l’hôtellerie internationale, marque sa présence dans les régions EMEA et APAC avec plus de 1 320 hôtels déjà opérationnels ou en cours de développement, répartis dans plus de 90 pays. Ce groupe en pleine expansion envisage d’accroître significativement son portefeuille, porté par la promesse de marque que chaque moment compte, sous le sceau de son engagement de service « Yes I Can! ».

La famille de marques Radisson englobe des enseignes prestigieuses telles que Radisson Collection, art’otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, et prizeotel, toutes réunies sous la bannière commerciale unique de Radisson Hotels.

Le programme de fidélité Radisson Rewards illustre parfaitement l’expérience enrichie que le Radisson Hotel Group s’efforce de fournir, en faisant de chaque moment un instant mémorable. Considéré comme le programme le plus cohérent du secteur, il offre aux membres des avantages exceptionnels accessibles dès le premier jour dans un large éventail d’hôtels en Europe, au Moyen-Orient, en Afrique et en Asie-Pacifique.

Radisson Meetings propose des solutions sur mesure pour tout événement ou réunion, y compris des solutions hybrides qui placent les besoins des invités au centre de son offre. Engagé autour de trois promesses de service – Personnel, Professionnel et Mémorable – Radisson Meetings se distingue par son engagement envers l’excellence et sa particularité d’être 100 % neutre en carbone.

Le Radisson Hotel Group se consacre au bien-être des personnes, des communautés et de la planète, avec l’objectif d’atteindre la neutralité carbone d’ici 2050, conformément aux Objectifs Basés sur la Science à court terme approuvés. Avec des initiatives telles que Radisson Meetings 100 % neutre en carbone, nous facilitons les séjours hôteliers durables. Dans un effort pour encourager des choix de voyage durables, tous nos hôtels sont en voie de certification selon les Fondamentaux de la Durabilité Hôtelière.

La santé et la sécurité des clients et des membres de l’équipe restent une priorité absolue pour le Radisson Hotel Group. Toutes les propriétés du portefeuille du groupe sont soumises à des exigences strictes en matière de santé et de sécurité, garantissant ainsi notre engagement constant envers le soin de nos clients et de nos équipes.

Pour plus d’informations, nous vous invitons à visiter notre site web corporate ou à vous connecter avec Radisson Hotels sur LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook et YouTube.

Pour plus d’informations, visitez notre corporate website.

A Propos du Radisson :
Radisson est une marque hôtelière haut de gamme offrant une hospitalité d’inspiration scandinave permettant aux clients d’atteindre une parfaite harmonie pendant leur séjour. Avec un environnement naturel et des délices inattendus, Radisson inspire l’art d’être dans l’instant présent, aidant les clients à trouver le bon équilibre pour leur séjour et leur permettant de se déconnecter et de se détendre. Les hôtels Radisson se trouvent dans les destinations de loisirs, en banlieue et en ville, ainsi qu’à proximité des aéroports. Les hôtes et les partenaires commerciaux professionnels peuvent améliorer leur expérience avec Radisson en participant à Radisson Rewards, un programme de fidélité international qui propose des avantages et des primes exceptionnels.

Radisson fait partie de la famille des marques Radisson, qui comprend également Radisson Collection, art’otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson et prizeotel, réunies sous la marque commerciale ombrelle Radisson Hotels.

A propos de Taghazout Bay :
Nichée aux portes d’Agadir, Taghazout Bay est une destination éco-responsable qui s’étend sur 4,5 km de plages, offrant un panorama exceptionnel sur un arrière-pays authentique. Inspirée par le patrimoine local et ses paysages, elle propose des expériences balnéaires, sportives et culturelles toute l’année. La destination comprend des composantes résidentielles et hôtelières ainsi que des infrastructures sportives et culturelles, dont des académies de surf et de golf, un musée dédié à l’Arganier et divers circuits écotouristiques. Chaque année, Taghazout Bay accueille des compétitions mondiales de surf, bodyboard, golf et d’autres disciplines, ainsi que des événements culturels internationaux qui renforcent son positionnement de destination de choix au Maroc.

Plus sur https://www.TaghazoutBay.ma 

Pour en savoir plus et réserver, rendez-vous sur notre site Web http://apo-opa.co/3LNoqxe.

Media files

Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay brings contemporary living to Morocco’s renowned surf capital

Source: APO

Radisson Hotel Group (www.RadissonHotels.com) proudly announces the debut of Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay (http://apo-opa.co/47YRVUf), in the heart of Morocco’s surf capital. Nestled on the scenic hills of Taghazout Bay with sweeping views of the Atlantic, the new property features 208 modern serviced apartments, padel court, two outdoor pools and a kids area.

Strategically located on a hillside overlooking the ocean, the new Residences offers an unbeatable location, only steps from the world-class Tazegzout Golf course and a quick two minutes by shuttle ride from the beach. Taghazout Village, a vibrant hub of surf culture and coastal charm, is only a ten-minute drive away. Surrounded by golden beaches, relaxed cafés, and dramatic natural landscapes, every moment invites travelers to disconnect and immerse themselves in the essence of seaside living.

“Taghazout Bay continues to grow as one of North Africa’s most exciting coastal destinations. This opening reflects our commitment to expanding in high-potential leisure markets with properties that give guests space to slow down, find their balance, and enjoy meaningful moments. Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay offers the best base in a setting that inspires relaxation and connection,” said Tim Cordon, COO, Middle East, Africa & Southeast Asia Pacific, Radisson Hotel Group. 

The comfort of home, the ease of Radisson

The property has 208 modern serviced apartments, ranging from two to three bedrooms. Each apartment includes a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living areas, and a private terrace or balcony. Families and groups can enjoy the independence of a home away from home, paired with the calm simplicity of Radisson’s Scandinavian-inspired hospitality.

Whether guests choose slow mornings in the sun or days filled with sand, surf, and adventure, Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay makes it easy to live at the pace of the coast.

Designed to flow with nature

The new Residences span twelve elegant low-rise buildings in soft beige tones that blend naturally with the coastal environment. Drought-resistant greenery and native argan trees enrich the landscape while interiors embrace a minimalist design with earthy textures and muted colors inspired by Taghazout’s surf and shoreline.

Leisure to match any mood

Two outdoor pools set the stage for effortless leisure. The central pool creates a vibrant social hub, with the expansive ocean-facing pool boasts panoramic views of the Atlantic. For those seeking action, a brand-new Padel court adds a dynamic way to stay active and energized.

Beyond the property, guests can explore well-known local attractions including the Targant Museum, Taghazout’s popular skatepark, and the vibrant Souk El Had, a 20-minute drive away. For more off-the-beaten-path adventures, guests can enjoy sandboarding at sunset on the Timlalin Dunes, sampling freshly caught fish at the port of Imi Ouaddar, or discovering new surf spots along the scenic coastline.

Jean-Baptiste Bohler, Cluster General Manager of Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay and Radisson Blu Resort, Taghazout Bay Surf Village said, “At Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay, we offer our guests the freedom and flexibility of a residence, with fully equipped kitchens for those who wish to feel at home, while still enjoying the comfort, amenities, and services of our neighboring Radisson Blu Resort Taghazout Bay Surf Village. It is a perfect balance of independence and hospitality in one of Morocco’s most breathtaking coastal settings.”

Radisson Residences Taghazout Bay expands Radisson Hotel Group’s presence in Morocco, delivering a new way to stay that embraces coastal living, open-air freedom, and the joy of being fully present.

For more information and to book, click here: http://apo-opa.co/47YRVUf

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Radisson Hotel Group.

Media Contact: 
Saadiyah Hendricks
,
Director,
Global Corporate and Area PR & Social Media (MEA, MED and SEAP),
Radisson Hotel Group 
saadiyah.hendricks@radissonhotels.com 

Nataliya Tkachenko,
Associate Director Global Consumer PR,
Radisson Hotel Group 
nataliya.tkachenko@radissonhotels.com

Social Media: 
Connect with Radisson Hotels on: 
LinkedIn: http://apo-opa.co/3JRJGl0  
TikTok: http://apo-opa.co/3JDA3X5  
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YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/49omqFC  
WhatsApp: http://apo-opa.co/49omt4g  
X: http://apo-opa.co/49omvZW 

Connect with Radisson on: 
LinkedIn: http://apo-opa.co/47MXKW0  
TikTok: http://apo-opa.co/3JDA3X5 
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4826TJd  
Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/4o3rEtY 
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3JOixPT 
WhatsApp: http://apo-opa.co/49omt4g  
X: http://apo-opa.co/49omvZW 

About Radisson Hotel Group: 
Radisson Hotel Group is a rapidly expanding international hotel group, operating in EMEA and APAC with more than 1,580 hotels in operation and under development in +100 countries. The Group’s overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos. 

The Radisson brand portfolio includes Radisson Collection, art’otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and Prize by Radisson — brought together under one commercial umbrella brand, Radisson Hotels.  

Radisson Rewards (https://apo-opa.co/3LFcfmh) is Radisson Hotel Group’s loyalty program, which delivers an elevated experience that makes Every Moment Matter, counting more than 24 million members. As the most streamlined program in the sector, members enjoy exceptional advantages and can access their benefits from day one across a wide range of hotels in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. 

Radisson Meetings (http://apo-opa.co/3LH4Y5o) provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions, placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional, and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely Carbon Compensated.  

At Radisson Hotel Group, we care for people, communities, and planet (https://apo-opa.co/3K6B89S) and aim to be Net Zero by 2050 based on the approved Science Based Targets. With unique solutions such as carbon-compensated Radisson Meetings, we make sustainable hotel stays easy. To facilitate sustainable travel choices, all our hotels are becoming verified on Hotel Sustainability Basics. 

The health and safety of guests and team members remain a top priority for Radisson Hotel Group. All properties across the Group’s portfolio are subject to health and safety requirements, ensuring we always care for our guests and team members. 

For more information, visit our corporate website http://apo-opa.co/4r2hexh.

About Radisson: 
Radisson is an upscale hotel brand that offers Scandinavian-inspired hospitality that enables guests to find more harmony in their travel experience. With natural surroundings and unexpected delights, Radisson inspires the art of being in the moment, helping guests to find the right balance for their stay, switch off and relax. Radisson hotels can be found in leisure destinations, suburban and city settings, and near airports. Guests and professional business partners can enhance their experience with Radisson by participating in Radisson Rewards, an international loyalty program offering exceptional benefits and rewards. 

Radisson is part of the Radisson family of brands, which includes Radisson Collection, art’otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and Prize by Radisson — brought together under one commercial umbrella brand, Radisson Hotels. 

For reservations and more information, visit our website http://apo-opa.co/49pg0Ga.

Media files

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President Ramaphosa to engage with CEOs ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 18 November 2025 address a working dinner with South African chief executives as part of the G20 Outreach Programme. 
 
Since assuming the Presidency of the G20 in December 2024, the South African Government  has hosted various activities aimed at strengthening international cooperation in various areas including science and innovation, education and 
trade and investment.

These deliberations have extended beyond G20 members to partners including African countries. 
 
As part of the G20 Outreach Programme, the South African Government has led various activities, under the Coordination Machanism for Economic Development (COMED) network, aimed at sharing information and promoting trade investment opportunities for South African companies on the African continent. 

South Africa is one the largest investors on the continent in various areas including energy, telecommunications, agriculture and infrastructure. 
 
Members of the media wishing to cover the dinner are requested to send their details to Patience@presidency.gov.za before 16h00. No late applications will be accepted.

The President will address the dinner as follows:
Date: Tuesday, 18 November 2025
Time: 18h00 ( Media to arrive at 17h00)
Venue: Investec, 100 Sandton Drive, Sandown, Sandton

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya Spokesperson to the President: media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

SA has started welcoming G20 guests!

Source: Government of South Africa

By Sandile Nene

With the eyes of the world firmly focussed on South Africa, attention now turns to the historic first ever G20 Leaders’ Summit on African soil. On 22 and 23 November 2025, Nasrec in Johannesburg will welcome a number of world leaders and other dignitaries for this landmark gathering.

An event of this magnitude, with global implications will of course draw added scrutiny and some of this has focussed on our readiness to host the Summit. Those with a narrow lens have concentrated solely on the Summit, without realising that South Africa has already hosted 130 preparatory meetings, including ministerial gatherings and central bank governors’ meetings without incident.  Some of these meetings include the Y20 Summit which was hosted in Ekurhuleni from 18 to 22 August 2025. Ekurhuleni is also hosting the G20 Social Summit, from 18 to 20 November 2025.

As government we are confident that this event will proceed smoothly, as have all the others thus far. Every successful event has assisted in sharpening our security and logistics arrangements in preparation for the G20 Leaders’ Summit. These preparations are wide ranging and include a comprehensive safety plan, along with securing energy supply, the cleaning and preparation of public spaces, and the activation of a disaster management centre.

Speaking on preparations ahead of the Summit, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said that a 
comprehensive and resilient energy plan is now in place to secure uninterrupted power supply for the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit but also for the overall energy supply to residents and businesses in our province.

He added that: “The energy plan also includes multiple layers of security, high mast solar lighting, the protection of cables and the installation of emergency generators.”

The Summit’s safety and security is being comprehensively managed and coordinated through inter-agency cooperation. All relevant national and provincial government departments and agencies are involved in planning safety, security and emergency services.

As government, we are confident that all safety and security arrangements for the Summit are in place. We have implemented a number of preventative measures, including heightened security at points of entry, hotels and venues. Furthermore, robust contingency plans are in place to prevent and limit incidents should they occur.

As a nation we have a proud safety track record in hosting mega global events. Both the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2013 Orange African Cup of Nations were hosted without major incidents.

Lessons learned from hosting previous events have been integrated into our safety and security plan. Plans are in place for any eventuality, including potential crowd incidents, such as marches, protests and pickets. We are confident that our security agencies have done comprehensive risk and threat assessments, and we are ready to host the G20 leaders and all participating delegations.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi reinforced the province’s preparedness: “Gauteng is well equipped to ensure a safe and secure environment for all participants and our residents. The South African Police Service [SAPS], in full coordination with all other law enforcement agencies, has robust plans in place that we have all adopted and accepted.”

He added: “Our multi-level law enforcement strategy will see delegates escorted by a unified force comprising of SAPS, National Traffic Police, Gauteng Provincial Traffic and all metropolitan police departments will be deployed to escort and support our visitors.”

All that now remains is for leaders of the G20 to arrive and to experience the magic that we call home.  Our country offers visitors a unique experience and this will play a massive part in driving home our call for “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”, which is the theme of the G20 in South Africa.  

We believe that Solidarity means countries working to help each other, especially in tough times like economic crises, natural disasters, or pandemics. It’s about teamwork: if one country struggles, the others step in to support, because the world is connected.

Equity is about making sure opportunities, benefits, and resources are shared fairly—not just between rich and poor countries, but also between men and women, and between different communities.

Sustainability means using resources—like water, energy, and land—in a smart way so we don’t harm the planet or run out of what future generations need.

South Africa’s track record, combined with the comprehensive security, energy, and logistical preparations leaves no doubt about our readiness to host this historic summit. As the world turns its gaze to Nasrec, we stand confident in our readiness to deliver a landmark event. 

*Sandile Nene – Acting Deputy Director-General for Content Processing and Dissemination in the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).

South Africa a country and economy ‘on the rise’ – President Ramaphosa

Source: Government of South Africa

In the weekly Presidential newsletter, President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the green shoots in the economy as an indication that South Africa is a “country and an economy on the rise”.

The President cited the recent downturn in unemployment and strengthening in government finances as an indication that the country is moving towards a place of strength.

“Unemployment is down. Data from Statistics South Africa show that the official unemployment rate fell to 31.9% between July and September this year, down from 33.2% recorded in the previous quarter. Nearly 250 000 more people were in employment in the third quarter. Of these, around 130 000 were added in the construction sector.

“The Medium Term Budget Policy Statement delivered last week points to a sustained turnaround in government finances. We are on track to achieve a third consecutive primary budget surplus. This means that, excluding interest payments on our debt, we are collecting more in revenue than we are spending. This is a sign of prudent financial management, giving us space to steadily reduce our debt to sustainable levels,” he said.

Furthermore, the country’s sovereign credit rating was upgraded by S&P to ‘BB’ from ‘BB-’ and the local currency long-term sovereign credit rating to ‘BB+’ from ‘BB’.

“This is the first such upgrade from the agency in nearly two decades. An improved rating generally leads to lower borrowing costs, which allows for more funds to be invested in the economy and in meeting social needs.

“Among the factors S&P cited for the positive outlook were Eskom’s improved performance, strong tax collection and the broad structural reform momentum having picked up pace,” the President explained.

Operation Vulindlela

President Ramaphosa noted that Operation Vulindlela – government’s driving force behind reforms – was initially launched as a mechanism for the implementation of “transformative reforms and [to] boost economic growth”.

Initially, focus was on the network sectors, as well as immigration reform.

“We are seeing steady progress in the logistics sector, notably with respect to improved performance at our ports. Measures to allow private sector companies to operate on the national freight rail network are also at an advanced stage. 

“The most noteworthy improvements have been witnessed in the energy sector, with Eskom now on the road to recovery, massive investment in renewable energy generation, and vastly improved electricity supply. 

“In support of South Africa’s ratings upgrade, S&P cited the recently launched Phase II of Operation Vulindlela, which is focusing on changes in local government, digital transformation, visa regimes, spatial inequality and others,” he said.

The President noted that modelling from the University of Stellenbosch’s Bureau of Economic Research estimates that the potential impact of Operation Vulindlela’s full implementation could “lift South Africa’s long-term growth rate by as much as 3.5%”.

“In citing this modelling, the analyst JP Landman writes that ‘the reforms are a journey, but they have started working. Step by step, South Africa is opening its economy, modernising infrastructure and rebuilding credibility’.

“Despite considerable headwinds that have [included] a global pandemic, a debilitating energy crisis and more recently, a difficult global trade environment, we have stayed the course on economic recovery and are now seeing this pay off,” he said.

President Ramaphosa reflected on the country’s emergence from a “ruinous period of economic stagnation” and State capture.

He added that despite this, “we have been able to achieve sustained progress in a relatively short period of time”.

“This is in no small part owing to the strength of the partnerships forged between government, business, labour and civil society. 

“These far-reaching economic changes have a direct and material impact on the lives of every South African, on their ability to lead dignified lives, to access public services, to secure employment, and to provide for their families. 

“We are determined to sustain the momentum of this economic recovery, so that we can drive inclusive growth, create jobs and improve the lives of our citizens,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

7 500 petites et moyennes entreprises (PME) africaines vont être formées dans les domaines de Intelligence Artificielle (IA) et du commerce numérique grâce à un nouveau programme conjoint de Google et du Secrétariat de la zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Des milliers de petites et moyennes entreprises (PME) du Nigéria et sur l’ensemble du continent africain ont désormais accès à des ressources sur l’IA et le numérique pour développer leurs activités et les échanges commerciaux à l’échelle continentale. Google et le Secrétariat de la zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf) ont lancé un programme officiel d’entrepreneuriat et d’inclusion numérique, une nouvelle initiative de formation gratuite disponible sur le portail de la Google Hustle Academy.

Les petites entreprises génèrent près de 80 % des emplois en Afrique et représentent un pilier de l’économie du continent. Ce programme vise à combler le déficit de compétences numériques en fournissant aux entrepreneurs des solutions basées sur l’IA ainsi qu’une formation proposée en plusieurs langues pour répondre aux exigences concrètes du marché actuel. L’initiative s’appuiera sur le succès de la Google Hustle Academy, qui a accompagné plus de 18 000 PME africaines depuis 2022.

S.E. Wamkele Mene, Secrétaire général de la ZLECAf, a souligné l’importance de ce partenariat : “Le programme s’aligne sur l’objectif de transformation de la ZLECAf mis en avant dans nos protocoles sur le commerce numérique et sur les femmes et les jeunes dans le commerce. L’idée est de permettre aux MPME, aux femmes, aux jeunes, aux personnes en situation de handicap, aux agriculteurs ruraux et à d’autres acteurs de jouer un rôle prépondérant dans l’économie en bénéficiant des initiatives de la ZLECAf. Nous montrons ici notre volonté de favoriser l’inclusion numérique et de permettre aux MPME de développer les échanges commerciaux grâce à la  technologie sous l’égide de la ZLECAf.”

“La technologie est une arme puissante dans la lutte contre les inégalités. Ce partenariat vise à fournir à des milliers d’entrepreneurs africains les outils pratiques et les connaissances nécessaires pour générer de nouvelles opportunités”, a déclaré Charles Murito, directeur des affaires gouvernementales et de la politique publique pour l’Afrique subsaharienne chez Google. “En nous concentrant sur des domaines clés comme l’IA, le commerce électronique et le commerce transfrontalier, nous construisons un écosystème numérique plus connecté et plus prospère sur l’ensemble du continent. Cela témoigne de notre engagement continu envers la communauté vivante et dynamique des entreprises africaines.”

Un programme pour la croissance continentale

Ancrée dans la réalité économique, la formation comprend trois modules principaux, disponibles en anglais, en français, en arabe et en portugais afin de garantir une accessibilité pour tous les entrepreneurs d’Afrique.

  • Commerce numérique transfrontalier : créé en partenariat avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf, ce module transforme la politique en pratique. Les entrepreneurs apprendront à trouver de nouveaux marchés, à adapter leurs produits et à maîtriser la logistique des paiements et des livraisons à l’échelle internationale.
  • Le Cloud pour les petites entreprises : ce module se concentre sur les manières de stimuler l’efficacité et de réduire les coûts grâce aux outils cloud. Les participants recevront une formation pratique sur le travail en équipe dans Google Workspace et sur la sécurisation des activités dans Google Cloud.
  • L’IA pour la productivité : ce module fournit des compétences pratiques pour développer une entreprise à l’aide de l’IA. Les entrepreneurs apprendront à utiliser des outils comme Google Gemini pour automatiser leurs tâches, créer du contenu marketing et analyser des données clients.

UpSkill Universe, un organisme de formation reconnu dans le domaine des compétences numériques, sera chargé d’assurer le programme. “Les entrepreneurs africains sont déjà des acteurs du changement. Nous connaissons les problématiques auxquelles ils sont confrontés, comme l’essor de l’IA ou encore l’évolution des comportements des clients”, a déclaré Gori Yahaya, PDG d’UpSkill Universe. “Cette collaboration permettra aux entreprises d’accéder aux outils pratiques et aux technologies dont elles ont besoin pour grandir, se développer et prospérer.”

Éligibilité et informations concernant les candidatures

Les candidatures pour le programme sont désormais ouvertes. L’initiative s’adresse aux PME qui sont en activité depuis au moins six mois et qui sont basées dans certains états membres de la ZLECAf, y compris le Nigéria, le Kenya, l’Afrique du Sud, le Ghana, le Cameroun, le Sénégal, le Togo, la Côte d’Ivoire, le Rwanda, Maurice, l’Éthiopie, la Tanzanie, la Namibie, la Zambie, l’Angola, le Mozambique, l’Égypte, la Tunisie et le Maroc.
La formation doit commencer en novembre 2025 et se déroulera en 25 cohortes jusqu’en juin 2026.

Les PME intéressées peuvent trouver plus d’informations et envoyer leur candidature en accédant au lien suivant :
https://apo-opa.co/47MJNY8

Distribué par APO Group pour UpSkill Universe.

Contact médias :
Relations médias
press@upskilluniverse.com

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7500 Pequenas e Médias Empresas (PMEs) africanas vão receber formação em Inteligência Artificial (IA) e Comércio Digital através de um novo programa da Google e do Secretariado da Zona de Comércio Livre Continental Africana (AfCFTA)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Milhares de pequenas e médias empresas (PME) em toda a Nigéria e no continente africano já podem adquirir competências essenciais de IA e digitais para expandir os seus negócios e realizar trocas comerciais a nível continental. A Google e o Secretariado da Zona de Comércio Livre Continental Africana (AfCFTA) lançaram o “Programa de Inclusão Digital e Empreendedorismo AfCFTA”, uma nova iniciativa de formação gratuita dinamizada pela Google Hustle Academy.

As pequenas empresas são parte fundamental da economia africana, gerando quase 80% dos empregos em todo o continente. Este programa foi concebido para colmatar a lacuna de competências digitais, fornecendo aos empreendedores soluções baseadas em IA e formação localizada que responde às exigências reais do mercado atual. A iniciativa é baseada no sucesso da Google Hustle Academy, que já apoiou mais de 18000 PMEs em África desde 2022.

S.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretário-Geral do Secretariado da AfCFTA, comentou a importância da parceria: “o Programa alinha-se com o objetivo transformador da AfCFTA, particularmente delineado no Protocolo sobre Comércio Digital e no Protocolo sobre Mulheres e Jovens no Comércio, para posicionar as MPME, mulheres, jovens, pessoas com deficiência, agricultores rurais e mais como principais impulsionadores e beneficiários da AfCFTA. É a demonstração do nosso compromisso em fomentar a inclusão digital e capacitar as MPME para desenvolver atividades no âmbito da AfCFTA, recorrendo a tecnologias digitais.”

“A tecnologia é um fator equitativo importante, e esta parceria tem como objetivo disponibilizar a milhares de empreendedores africanos as ferramentas práticas e o conhecimento para desbloquear novas oportunidades,” disse Charles Murito, Diretor Regional de Assuntos Governamentais e Políticas Públicas da Google na África Subsariana. “Com o foco em áreas essenciais como IA, comércio eletrónico e comércio transfronteiriço, estamos a ajudar a construir um ecossistema digital mais associativo e próspero em todo o continente. Isto espelha o nosso compromisso contínuo com a comunidade empresarial vibrante e dinâmica de África.”

Um plano curricular para o crescimento continental

A formação centra-se na aprendizagem orientada para a ação através de três módulos principais, e será conduzida em inglês, francês, árabe e português para garantir o acesso aos empreendedores de toda a África.

  • Comércio digital transfronteiriço: Cocriado com o Secretariado da AfCFTA, este módulo passa a política à prática. Os empreendedores vão aprender a encontrar novos mercados, adaptar produtos e dominar a logística de pagamentos e expedição transfronteiriços.
  • Cloud para pequenas empresas: Este módulo centra-se na utilização de ferramentas na nuvem (cloud) para aumentar a eficiência e reduzir custos. Os participantes recebem formação prática com o Google Workspace para trabalho em equipa, e com o Google Cloud para operações seguras.
  • IA para produtividade: Este módulo fornece competências práticas para escalar um negócio recorrendo a IA. Os empreendedores vão aprender a usar ferramentas como o Google Gemini para automatizar tarefas, criar conteúdo de marketing e analisar dados de clientes.

A UpSkill Universe, uma entidade formadora líder em competências digitais, vai conduzir o programa. “Os empreendedores em África já estão a impulsionar a mudança. Reconhecemos os desafios que enfrentam, desde o advento da IA até às alterações no comportamento dos consumidores,” disse Gori Yahaya, CEO da UpSkill Universe. “Esta colaboração garante que podemos equipar as empresas com as ferramentas práticas e tecnologias de que necessitam para crescer, escalar e prosperar.”

Elegibilidade e detalhes da candidatura

As candidaturas para o programa já estão abertas. A iniciativa destina-se a PMEs que estejam em atividade há pelo menos seis meses e que estejam sediadas em estados-membros elegíveis da AfCFTA, incluindo: Nigéria, Quénia, África do Sul, Gana, Camarões, Senegal, Togo, Costa do Marfim, Ruanda, Maurícia, Etiópia, Tanzânia, Namíbia, Zâmbia, Angola, Moçambique, Egito, Tunísia e Marrocos.

O início da formação está agendado para novembro de 2025 e decorrerá em 25 grupos até junho de 2026.

As PMEs interessadas podem obter mais informações e candidatar-se através deste linK: https://apo-opa.co/47MJNY8

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para UpSkill Universe.

Contacto para a imprensa:
Comunicação social
press@upskilluniverse.com

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Japão e Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento lançam Plataforma África-Ásia (A-A) para impulsionar o empreendedorismo e a inovação juvenil

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (www.AfDB.org) anunciou na sexta-feira o lançamento de uma nova iniciativa, a Plataforma África-Ásia (A-A), dedicada à promoção da transferência de conhecimento entre África e Ásia. Esta plataforma garantirá um intercâmbio recíproco de tecnologia e inovação entre os dois continentes.

Baixar documento: https://apo-opa.co/4i1AgzQ

A cerimónia de lançamento foi realizada na Universidade das Nações Unidas, em Tóquio. O evento contou com a presença do Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, presidente do Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento, do Prof. Francis Petersen, vice-reitor e diretor da Universidade de Pretória, e do Dr. Teruo Fujii, presidente da Universidade de Tóquio. O Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento organizou o evento com o apoio das duas universidades.

A plataforma, que é apoiada pela Política e Subsídio para o Desenvolvimento de Recursos Humanos (PHRDG) – fundo fiduciário do Japão no Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento – compreende vários componentes-chave, incluindo o estabelecimento de uma parceria de conhecimento África-Ásia; o desenvolvimento de um diá. de conhecimento que apoie iniciativas nos setores público e privado em África e o reforço da capacidade de investigação individual e institucional através da promoção de redes e investigação interuniversitárias.

A cerimónia surge na sequência da nona Conferência Internacional de Tóquio sobre o Desenvolvimento Africano (TICAD9), realizada em Yokohama, Japão, em agosto de 2025, sob o tema ‘Criar em conjunto soluções inovadoras com África’, que está em consonância com a ênfase da plataforma na partilha de conhecimento.

Os diretores das instituições partilharam as suas reações.

O Dr. Ould Tah afirmou: “A Plataforma África-Ásia para Novas Iniciativas de Parceria Público-Privada, que estamos a lançar hoje, representa a próxima fronteira da nossa colaboração; o sucesso deste projeto-piloto servirá como prova crucial da viabilidade e do impacto da ligação entre África e a Ásia através de parcerias inovadoras”.

Depois, acrescentou: “Ao posicionar os nossos jovens como motores da inovação e do empreendedorismo, ancorados em parcerias público-privadas robustas, estamos a construir um mercado africano atraente para promover investimentos, criar empregos de qualidade, e abordar as causas profundas da migração insegura e da insegurança, ao mesmo tempo que promovemos um futuro seguro e próspero”.

O Prof. Peterson declarou: “As parcerias entre países asiáticos e africanos apresentam um modelo ideal em que os atores públicos e privados de ambos os continentes colaboram, criam em conjunto e impulsionam a inovação. Embora continuem a existir distâncias geográficas e institucionais significativas entre os atores asiáticos e africanos, as universidades estão estrategicamente posicionadas para colmatar essas lacunas. As universidades estão na melhor posição para desempenhar este papel através da sua capacidade de produção de conhecimento inter e transdisciplinar, das suas redes locais e globais e do seu papel como facilitadoras”.

O Dr. Teruo Fujii disse: “A Plataforma África-Ásia servirá de base para o intercâmbio de conhecimentos, ligando investigadores, decisores políticos e empreendedores. Promoverá novas parcerias empresariais, investigação conjunta sobre políticas públicas e oportunidades para estudantes e jovens profissionais aprenderem uns com os outros em todos os continentes”.

Esta nova iniciativa complementa os projetos de inovação existentes do Grupo Banco, tais como a Fase 2 da Universidade Pan-africana (https://apo-opa.co/4r4DdUu) e o projeto ENNOVA (https://apo-opa.co/4o5plXt), uma plataforma de inovação e empreendedorismo alimentada por Inteligência Artificial (IA) que proporciona às partes interessadas acesso a estudos de mercado, oportunidades de capacitação, recursos de conhecimento, oportunidades financeiras e ferramentas para prototipagem e incubação.

Por ocasião do lançamento desta plataforma, os líderes das organizações implementadoras (o Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento, a Universidade de Pretória e a Escola de Pós-Graduação em Políticas Públicas) concordam em cooperar entre as suas organizações, bem como com todas as outras partes interessadas, para alcançar os seus objetivos e contribuir para a promoção do desenvolvimento de competências, do empreendedorismo juvenil e da inovação, para o desenvolvimento sustentável de África.

Leia aqui a declaração conjunta (https://apo-opa.co/4i1AgzQ).

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contactos:
Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento

Amba Mpoke-Bigg
Departamento de Comunicação e Relações Externas
media@afdb.org

Dr. Keiko Takei
Analista-Chefe de Educação
K.TAKEI@AFDB.ORG

Escola de Pós-Graduação em Políticas Públicas da Universidade de Tóquio
Mihiro Fujimori
ppadmin.j@gs.mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp

Universidade de Pretória
Sr. Rikus Delport
Diretor
rikus.delport@up.ac.za

Sra. Thembi Tlale
Diretora Adjunta do Departamento de Desenvolvimento Institucional
thembi.tlale@up.ac.za

Sobre o Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento:
O Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento é a principal instituição financeira de desenvolvimento em África. Inclui três entidades distintas: o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (AfDB), o Fundo Africano de Desenvolvimento (ADF) e o Fundo Fiduciário da Nigéria (NTF). Presente no terreno em 41 países africanos, com uma representação externa no Japão, o Banco contribui para o desenvolvimento económico e o progresso social dos seus 54 Estados-membros.

Mais informações em www.AfDB.org

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