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EGYPT HOSTS PARLIAMENTARY FORUM OF THE UFM AND SUMMIT OF PARLIAMENTARY LEADERSCairo: AfricUpdate - News DeskBy: Ashraf G...
29/11/2025

EGYPT HOSTS PARLIAMENTARY FORUM OF THE UFM AND SUMMIT OF PARLIAMENTARY LEADERS

Cairo: AfricUpdate - News Desk

By: Ashraf Gaber - CEO & Editor in Chief

Dr Hanafi Al-Gebali, Speaker of the Egyptian House of Representatives, inaugurated the proceedings of the Parliamentary Forum of the Union for the Mediterranean and the Summit of Parliamentary Leaders, hosted by the Egyptian Parliament from November 28 – 29, 2025, as part of the celebrations marking the 30th anniversary of the launch of the Barcelona Process. Dr. Hanafi Jubali highlighted that the Barcelona Process, whose launch anniversary is commemorated today, represented a historic milestone and cornerstone for Euro-Mediterranean partnership, positioning it among the most significant international models for achieving comprehensive regional cooperation.

Heemphasized that the forum provides a genuine opportunity to review the trajectory of Euro-Mediterranean partnership, assess achievements, and address with realism and courage the challenges confronting our Euro-Mediterranean region as a unified civilizational space with an intertwined destiny that cannot be separated.

During his address, Dr. Hanafi Al-Gebali stressed that the Euro-Mediterranean region faces unprecedented challenges stemming from political instability, protracted conflicts, and regional tensions that threaten collective security structures, casting dark shadows over the security and stability of the entire region. He noted that Egypt hosted the Sharm El-Sheikh International Peace Summit, attended by prominent world leaders, which served as a foundation and roadmap for establishing and achieving just and lasting peace throughout the Middle East.

The Speaker further emphasized that sustainable stability cannot be achieved without genuine economic growth that benefits our peoples. He pointed to Egypt’s ambitious vision for the Euro-Mediterranean region, centered on the urgent need to promote commercial and energy connectivity projects between the two shores of the Mediterranean, support the green transition, encourage investment, and facilitate the transfer of technology and knowledge.

In conclusion, Dr. Hanafi Al-Gebali underscored that Euro-Mediterranean partnership is not a choice but a strategic necessity imposed by geography, history, intertwined interests, and the aspirations of peoples seeking security, prosperity, and justice. He reaffirmed that Egypt, through its presidency and parliament, will remain committed to supporting all efforts that strengthen regional cooperation and consolidate values of peace, development, and solidarity.

The session was attended by Mohamed Abu El-Einain, Deputy Speaker of the Egyptian House of Representatives and President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean, Tulia Ackson, President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, and Mohamed Al-Yamahi, President of the Arab Parliament.

“BRIDE OF THE CATACOMBS”: ABEER AL-ATTAR BLENDS HISTORY WITH FANTACY TO RESURRECT THE TRAGEDY OF ISADORACairo: AfricUpda...
29/11/2025

“BRIDE OF THE CATACOMBS”: ABEER AL-ATTAR BLENDS HISTORY WITH FANTACY TO RESURRECT THE TRAGEDY OF ISADORA

Cairo: AfricUpdate - News Desk

By: Ashraf Gaber - CEO & Editor in Chief

In a distinctive addition to Arab fantasy and speculative literature, Egyptian author Abeer Al-Attar has released her fourth novel, “Bride of the Catacombs” (Arous al-Saradeeb), published by Battana Publishing House. The cultural scene celebrated this new release at a signing and discussion event held on 27 November 2025, during which the author, together with critics and readers, explored the worlds of a work that opens a temporal gateway onto ancient Egypt.

Isadora: From Museum Relic to the Pulse of Fiction

The novel is grounded in a compelling historical fact dating back 2,000 years, centering on the figure of Isadora, often described as the first “martyr of love,” an aristocratic young woman who lived in the second century BCE in the city of Antinopolis (present-day Minya).

Al-Attar shows a profound fascination with Minya Governorate, its treasures, and its antiquities, and believes that this city possesses a depth of history that qualifies it for a far more prominent place on Egypt’s archaeological map than it currently holds.

The narrative resurrects the tragedy of her love for a modest Egyptian officer named Hapi, and her defiance of class boundaries through her nightly crossings of the Nile, journeys that ended in her drowning and her eternal rest as a mummy in the catacombs of Tuna el-Gebel. In this text, Al-Attar succeeds in freeing Isadora from the confines of a mere historical artifact, transforming her into a living voice and an emblem of female rebellion in search of light. The narration moves deftly between two-time layers, weaving together historical documentation of Upper Egypt’s geography with fantasy and magical realism, and raising profound questions about loyalty, loss, and immortality.

A Literary Project Blending Poetry and History

The novel can be classified within “travel and fantasy literature” and comes as a continuation of Abeer Al-Attar’s literary project, which began with poetry before evolving into fiction through her first novels “Pansée” (2018) and “A Soul Seduction” (Ghowayat Rouh) (2022).

This new work highlights the author’s ability to harness her poetic language to give voice to ancient Egyptian history and to craft gripping contemporary narratives, promising strong appeal among lovers of mystery and historical fiction. It is worth noting that novelist Abeer Al-Attar has published thirteen books spanning novels, poetry collections, short story collections, and prose texts, among them: “Pansée,” “Defining Moments,” “My Mirror’s Bet,” “Seduction of a Soul,” and “Lazurd.”

GAUTENG HANDS OVER OPERATING LICENCES TO PUBLIC TRANSPORT OPERATORS Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News DeskThe Gauteng Dep...
27/11/2025

GAUTENG HANDS OVER OPERATING LICENCES TO PUBLIC TRANSPORT OPERATORS

Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News Desk

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has handed over 300 operating licences to compliant public transport operators during a ceremony held at the Ekurhuleni Council Chambers. This handover forms part of the province’s ongoing programme to clear the operating license backlog and stabilise the public transport sector.

Since 1 September 2025, the department has issued a total of 525 operating licenses. Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, said that the handover demonstrates government’s commitment to strengthening regulation and improving service delivery to operators and commuters.

“Today is more than a handover ceremony. It is a statement of our commitment to rebuilding a licensing system that is transparent, efficient and fair. We are working tirelessly to ensure operators receive services closer to their communities and within predictable timeframes,” Diale-Tlabela said on Tuesday.

The MEC emphasised that public transport remains the backbone of mobility in Gauteng, moving millions of commuters daily, and that regulatory stability is essential for safety, economic participation and job creation. Furthermore, the strengthened provincial licensing system is designed to validate applications, improve data accuracy, and protect operators from fraudulent middlemen.

“We are taking a firm stance against corruption, fraudulent applications and individuals who extort money from operators under the pretext of consulting. These practices will not be tolerated. We are working closely with law enforcement agencies and our stakeholders to ensure that only legitimate operators are licensed,” the MEC said. She emphasised that an operating license is not just a document, but an instrument of economic empowerment and responsibility.

“We expect operators to honour the rules of the road, provide safe and reliable services, and contribute to a public transport system that the people of Gauteng can trust. This partnership is key to building a stable, modern and accessible transport network,” the MEC explained. The department will continue to implement measures aimed at eliminating the remaining backlog and strengthening the regulatory framework to ensure a safer and more efficient public transport environment for all Gauteng residents.

STILFONTEIN GBV MARCH AND AWARENESS CAMPAIGNJohannesburg: AfricUpdate – News DeskThe Stilfontein community united in a m...
27/11/2025

STILFONTEIN GBV MARCH AND AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News Desk

The Stilfontein community united in a meaningful and powerful march against Gender-Based Violence, held during the national 16 Days of Activism Against GBV. The march was led by Stilfontein SAPS, Women in Mining (Harmony), the Spiritual Crime Prevention Forum and the Community Policing Forum (CPF), with strong support from multiple community structures and faith leaders.

The programme began at Chemwes Mine Waste Solutions, where a single candle was lit by Bishop Setshedi in honour of victims and survivors of GBV. Following this emotional moment, Plant Manager Mrs. Rennet Jacobs addressed participants, acknowledging the importance of unity, awareness and continued action against GBV.

At 14:00, the march officially commenced. Participants of all ages walked together: the elderly moving with quiet determination, the youth singing boldly, men and women marching side by side, and families united in solidarity. Residents from Stilfontein, Jouberton, Khuma and surrounding areas joined in, turning the streets into a collective voice calling for an end to GBV and femicide.

Upon arrival at Lajady Park, the programme continued with structured introductions and messages from key representatives. Lieutenant Colonel Badenhorst introduced SAPS officials present, acknowledging the role of SAPS in the continued fight against GBV, the CPF and Spiritual Crime Prevention Forum executive. Mrs. Conny Makgoja from Harmony conducted the introduction of mine employees and representatives. A message followed from Nomakhaya Sileka, the social worker from Harmony Mine, who spoke on support services and the importance of early reporting.

The Spiritual Crime Prevention representative, Chairperson Bishop Nkomo, delivered a detailed message outlining their duties, objectives and the spiritual role they play in community safety. CPF representative Ms. Mokoto spoke about her personal experience with GBV and encouraged the community to continue raising awareness and reporting abuse.

Stilfontein SAPS was represented by the Station Commander, Colonel Senwedi, who explained the roles and responsibilities of SAPS in GBV & F incidents and spoke extensively about the dangers of GBV, proper reporting procedures and the urgency of acting early. He emphasized that the court remains on standby for GBV-related cases, and acknowledged the presence of the court manager, Mrs. Phore. He further urged community members not to withdraw GBV cases, explaining that repeated withdrawal often places victims in greater danger and can lead to fatal outcomes.

This was followed by short messages from representatives of the Department of Social Development, Ms. Thato Makama; SANPARK, Ms. Dimakatso Sogoli; Esther Williams, Mother Union (MU) President Diocese of Matlosane DR KK District; and Rev Magajane, President of the Khuma Council of Churches.

A poem from the pamphlet was read by Constable Matras, drawing deep emotional responses from attendees. A vote of thanks was delivered by Mr. Linda, representing Harmony Mine, appreciating all structures, organisers and community members for their participation. The programme concluded with a heartfelt prayer delivered by Lady Bishop Motoboli, bringing the event to a dignified and reflective close.

The Stakeholders Present Included:
• SAPS Stilfontein
• Community Policing Forum (CPF)
• Harmony Mine Waste Solutions
• Women in Mining
• Community in Blue
• Youth Desk
• Spiritual Crime Prevention
• Department of Social Development (DSD)
• SANPARK
• Department of Justice Court Manager: Mrs. Phore
• Mother Union (MU) President Diocese of Matlosane DR KK District
• Khuma Council of Churches
• District Board
• Pastors, Bishops and Church Leaders from various denominations
• PRO Cllr of DA Ms. Portia Burrell
• Community members

The march strengthened a shared message:
Stilfontein stands united. Stilfontein chooses protection over silence. Stilfontein says NO to GBV and femicide.

GOVERNMENT ISSUES INFRASTRUCTURE BONDS TO BOOST INVESTMENT Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News DeskThe National Treasury ha...
27/11/2025

GOVERNMENT ISSUES INFRASTRUCTURE BONDS TO BOOST INVESTMENT

Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News Desk

The National Treasury has launched a new Infrastructure and Development Finance Bond which will be issued to the market under government’s domestic borrowing programme. “This is the first time government has issued an infrastructure bond. It aims to take advantage of investors’ appetite for infrastructure as an asset class to raise funding at favourable market rates,” National Treasury said on Wednesday.

Government intends to support energy, water, transport, and social infrastructure investments that have undergone rigorous technical and financial evaluation. The funds will be disbursed through the Infrastructure Fund in the Development Bank of Southern Africa, to ensure that outlays are made in line with project delivery milestones.

This is part of a suite of reforms, first outlined in the 2024 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS), to boost investment in the infrastructure needed to foster stronger economic growth and service delivery, including by developing new long term financing instruments. Proceeds from the bond will be earmarked exclusively for financing eligible Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI) BFI projects.

“Raising the level of public infrastructure investment remains central to South Africa’s long-term growth strategy. As outlined in the 2025 MTBPS, government is shifting the composition of expenditure from consumption toward investment, supported by the reconfigured BFI, which now operates four bid windows annually. In its first two quarters, the reconfigured BFI received 28 submissions with nine progressing to detailed appraisal,” National Treasury said. The introduction of the new bond forms part of government’s strategy to broaden available funding mechanisms to improve the efficiency of capital allocation and enhance transparency in the financing of large-scale public investment.

GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAINS REUNITE / MARITIME GIANTS MAERSK AND CMA CGM READY TO RETURN TO THE SUEZ CANALCairo: AfricUpdate - ...
27/11/2025

GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAINS REUNITE / MARITIME GIANTS MAERSK AND CMA CGM READY TO RETURN TO THE SUEZ CANAL

Cairo: AfricUpdate - News Desk

Ismailia: Silta – Analytical Report by Ashraf Gaber

The return of the Danish shipping giant Maersk to the Suez Canal cannot be considered just a passing economic news headline, but a pivotal moment that is redrawing the map of global shipping after two years of turmoil in the Red Sea. This significance was embodied in the joint press conference held Tuesday by Admiral Osama Rabie, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority, and Vincent Clerc, CEO of Maersk Group, where they announced a strategic partnership paving the way for the company’s fleet to gradually resume transit through the vital Egyptian maritime route starting early December.

In his address, Admiral Osama Rabie provided a clear perspective on the implications of this return, affirming that the resumption of Maersk’s container ships transit represents “a return in the right direction towards the optimal path for sustaining global supply chains,” underscoring that the Suez Canal is the shortest, fastest, and safest passage between the East and West. He clarified that the agreement goes beyond overseeing vessel transit to open horizons for collaboration across maritime and logistics sectors, including container terminals, marine services, and expanding supply chain-related activities.

Upcoming Insurance Meeting and Early Signs of Canal Recovery:
In an exclusive to Silta Magazine, Admiral Rabie affirmed that the circle will be completed with his upcoming December meeting with major insurance companies, whose stance and clarity are pivotal. These insurers are expected to respond favorably to the current full security status in the Red Sea, with no pending threats to navigation.

The figures revealed by Rabie clearly reflect the early signs of tangible recovery in canal performance. In October, 1,136 ships transited with a total net tonnage of 47.1 million tons, generating revenues of $372.9 million, an improvement over the lower tonnages and revenues of the same period the previous year. By November, the number of vessels rose to 1,156 with 48.5 million tons of cargo, while revenues jumped to $383.4 million, marking nearly 27% growth compared to November 2024. According to Rabie, these indicators set the stage for an expected annual revenue of approximately $4.1 billion in 2025, betting on further improvement in 2026 with the return of additional shipping lines.

On the other side, Vincent Clerc emphasized that the relationship between Maersk and the Suez Canal extends beyond that of a client and a shipping lane; it is a long-standing partnership embodied also through joint investments in the container terminal at East Port Said. Clerc stressed that the canal remains “a decisive pillar for the group’s shipping operations,” and that the security calm in the Red Sea was a crucial factor in deciding to return, relying on peace agreements and settlements that have de-escalated regional tensions.

Diplomatic Momentum and Dual Return Mark New Era for Suez CanalNotably, the Maersk CEO linked this step to the diplomatic momentum in Sharm El-Sheikh, pointing out that the momentum following the peace summit, coupled with Egyptian efforts to de-escalate and restore stability, restored significant confidence among global companies to resume transit through the Red Sea and Suez Canal. He described the strategic partnership signing as a critical milestone towards full channel navigation resumption, anticipating other shipping lines to follow Maersk soon.

Admiral Rabie’s report was not limited to Maersk alone; he also announced a major development involving the French shipping giant CMA CGM deciding to fully return to transit the canal and Bab El-Mandeb from December. This dual return of two of the world’s largest shipping lines effectively marks the canal’s partial restoration of the shipping capacity lost during the Red Sea crisis peak, when many companies had to reroute vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, incurring additional time and costs.

In the backdrop, the Red Sea crisis remains a core explanatory factor for the current developments. The attacks by the Houthis on commercial vessels since late 2023 severely impacted the Suez Canal and Egypt’s economy, causing sharp declines in ship numbers and foreign currency revenues. This reality compelled the authority to adopt a broad set of measures including fleet modernization, service updates, and flexible pricing policies featuring incentives of up to 15% for heavily laden container vessels to close cost gaps compared to longer alternative routes.

Strategic Collaboration and Risk Mitigation Drive Suez Canal’s Recovery Phase:
A pivotal aspect of the authority’s future vision centers on insurance companies’ roles. Rabie alluded to upcoming meetings with leading marine insurers to reassess risks amid improved security conditions and to work on reducing insurance costs for vessels transiting the Red Sea and Suez Canal. This move aims to overcome one of the major obstacles to the return of major companies, as previous tensions sharply increased premiums and influenced navigation and routing decisions.

Parallelly, the Suez Canal Authority bets on expanding the partnership framework with Maersk to encompass critical files such as advanced logistics services, development of container terminals, deeper integration with the Suez Canal Economic Zone, alongside cooperation on green fuel projects and reduction of the maritime transport carbon footprint. This direction reflects the understanding that competition between shipping lanes no longer hinges solely on voyage length and transit fees, but on each lane’s ability to provide a comprehensive package of services, infrastructure, and added value.

Ultimately, the recent press conference can be read as a declaration of a new phase rather than a mere trade agreement signing. The return of Maersk and CMA CGM to the Suez Canal amid signs of traffic and revenue recovery, coupled with forthcoming insurance meetings, are all chapters in a single narrative titled: reclaiming the canal’s natural position as a vital artery of global trade. Beneath Rabie and Clerc’s messages, mutual confidence and shared interests stand as the defining theme of a phase expected to witness the canal restoring much of what it lost during two years of the Red Sea tempest.

INDONESIA AND SOUTH AFRICA AGREE ON MUTUAL VISA-FREE TRAVEL Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News DeskIndonesia and the Repub...
26/11/2025

INDONESIA AND SOUTH AFRICA AGREE ON MUTUAL VISA-FREE TRAVEL

Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News Desk

Indonesia and the Republic of South Africa agreed on the mutual abolition of visas. The new entry procedure was announced by Vice President of Indonesia Gibran Rakabuming Raka at a business forum in Johannesburg.

The agreement was the outcome of the October talks between President of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto and his South African counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa in Jakarta. As the vice president noted, this step reflects the growing partnership between the states. “President Ramaphosa’s visit to Indonesia several weeks ago demonstrates the profound cooperation between our countries,” emphasised Rakabuming Raka.

The Vice President also stated Indonesia’s readiness to increase investment in South African sectors of the economy, particularly in agriculture and energy. South Africa is viewed by Jakarta as a strategic partner and a “gateway” to the markets of the entire African continent. Indonesia is ready to offer its industrial capacity, developed manufacturing base, skilled personnel and technologies, as well as open access to the vast market of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

“Africa is growing really fast and is full of potential. Africa is the future, and Indonesia wants to build that future together with Africa,” concluded Rakabuming Raka. The parties also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in strategic industrial areas.

NZIMANDE ADVOCATES FOR AFRICA-CENTRIC RESEARCH AGENDA Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News DeskMinister of Science, Technolo...
26/11/2025

NZIMANDE ADVOCATES FOR AFRICA-CENTRIC RESEARCH AGENDA

Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News Desk

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has used his platform at the Science Forum South Africa (SFSA) to advocate for a research framework designed around African priorities rather than external influences.

He recognised that African countries have to build robust science infrastructure and regional networks. “To enable this fundamental shift, we believe Africa desperately needs what I call a sovereign research agenda for Africa. By this, I mean a research agenda that is designed, funded, and directed based on African priorities and concerns.

“Not based on the generosity of external donors regardless of their benign intentions,” Nzimande said on Tuesday. To enable the development of a sovereign research agenda, the Minister believes that African countries must build robust and accessible science infrastructure to support young and women researchers, improve maths and science education in public schools, and increase investments in research and development.

He is of the view that the leaders should focus on reversing the loss of critical skills by creating better working conditions for scientists and researchers. Nzimande’s plan further calls for developing Africa’s capacity to process its own mineral wealth, curbing illicit financial outflows that drain resources needed for essential services. He is also calling for stronger links between science, technology, and industry to drive commercialisation and support tech-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

In addition, the strategy emphasises the importance of adopting emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and expanding pandemic preparedness, including achieving the goal of producing 60% of Africa’s vaccines locally by 2040. The SFSA 2025 attracted a diverse gathering of over 6 000 participants, among them were scientists, policymakers, youth innovators, entrepreneurs, and representatives from civil society, all converging to engage in meaningful discussions about the future of science and technology in Africa.

The SFSA 2025, the National Advisory Council on Innovation (NACI) and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) are currently hosting a five-day high-level session on strengthening science diplomacy and science advice across Africa and the Global South. The Minister expressed the significance of this forum, which marked a decade of insightful dialogue and coincided with South Africa’s Group of 20 (G20) Presidency. “This year is particularly special as this forum celebrates 10 years of insightful dialogue and also coincides with the conclusion of our country’s G20 Presidency,” he said.

This year’s theme is: “Placing Science, Technology and Innovation at the centre of Government, Education, Industry and Society.” Nzimande emphasised the need for a sustained increase in public awareness of the importance of science in everyday life. Among the exciting features was the South African Tech Challenge 2025, which aimed to identify high-potential small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) whose technologies tackle societal challenges.

However, Nzimande’s address did not shy away from discussing the challenges faced by society in this pivotal moment of history. He painted a picture of paradox, saying, “This era has seen the emergence of some of the most breathtaking technological advances in human history. At the same time, we have also witnessed alarming levels of social inequality.”

He urged the audience to consider how to bridge these divides, asking, “How do we make sure our science and technology innovations facilitate pathways for social inclusion and social justice?” The Minister called on those in attendance to envision a future where science and technology would serve not just as tools of advancement, but as instruments of inclusion and equity. “This is the moment for us to act,” he said.

YOUTH CALLED TO LEAD FIGHT AGAINST GBVFDurban: AfricUpdate – News DeskEThekwini Municipality has called on young people ...
26/11/2025

YOUTH CALLED TO LEAD FIGHT AGAINST GBVF

Durban: AfricUpdate – News Desk

EThekwini Municipality has called on young people to take a leading role in confronting the escalating challenge of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF). The municipality made the call as the city officially launched the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign at King Zwelithini Stadium in uMlazi, south of Durban.

Launched on Tuesday under the theme “Letsema: Men, Women, Boys and Girls working together to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide,” the event set a firm tone of unity, accountability, and collective responsibility in protecting women and children across the municipality. The programme began with a visit to Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital to assess the facilities and support services available for women and children. The visit also sought to raise awareness on how communities and victims can report violations and access the necessary assistance.

Municipal leadership, alongside representatives from government and private sector institutions, gathered to discuss impactful interventions and strategies to combat the scourge of gender-based violence across the municipality. Echoing the national call for unity in the fight against GBVF, eThekwini Deputy Mayor Zandile Myeni, urged young people in uMlazi to take an active role in preventing violence and encouraged families to stand together.

“We are here to echo the President’s message that Gender-Based Violence and Femicide is a crisis. Law enforcement alone cannot eradicate GBVF without the support of families, churches, and the broader community. GBVF affects people of all races, genders, and backgrounds,” the Deputy Mayor said. Chairperson of the Community Services Committee, Zama Sokhabase, emphasised that gender-based violence and femicide remain among the most pervasive human rights violations affecting women and children in South Africa.

“Let us work together to halt gender-based violence,” Sokhabase urged. City law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service, reaffirmed their commitment to working with communities and stakeholders to curb GBV. EThekwini Civil Society Organisation Secretary Sazi Jali highlighted the importance of accountability.

“Ending GBVF requires our communities to stand together and uphold Pillar 1 of the National Strategic Plan, which focuses on accountability. This work begins within our families, where each of us must hold one another responsible for our actions.” Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, together with Deputy Minister Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, officially launch the national campaign at Gallagher Estate in Midrand.

Observed from 25 November to 10 December, the 16 Days campaign forms part of a global United Nations initiative aimed at raising awareness, mobilising communities and strengthening accountability in efforts to end violence against women and children. Earlier this year, government launched the 90-Day GBVF Acceleration Programme to fast track the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF. The 16 Days of Activism coincided with the release of the five-year review of the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on GBVF, which identifies areas that need urgent strengthening.

GONDWE ASSISTS ELANGENI TVET RAISE OVER R1 MILLION  FOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News DeskHig...
26/11/2025

GONDWE ASSISTS ELANGENI TVET RAISE OVER R1 MILLION FOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News Desk

Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, has assisted Elangeni TVET College in securing more than R1 million for critical infrastructure development and skills-enhancement projects. The college achieved this milestone during its 3rd Annual Fundraising Gala Dinner, held recently in Umhlanga, north of Durban.

In collaboration with local businesses, the event raised a total of R1 075 400 through financial pledges, table sponsorships, individual contributions, and auction bids. Approximately 150 representatives from businesses, industries, academic institutions, and individual entrepreneurs attended the gala, demonstrating strong community and industry support for strengthening the TVET sector and advancing national skills development agenda.

The Deputy Minister commended the college for hosting the successful event and forging meaningful partnerships with the business community to support key infrastructural development projects. She also urged industries and communities to strengthen their support for TVET students, stating that “a culture of giving does not emerge accidentally, it is deliberately cultivated.”

“The event demonstrated what becomes possible when communities, businesses, and government work together with a shared purpose. Building a culture of giving is not just about raising funds; it is about opening doors of opportunity for young people who rely on the TVET system for a better future,” the Deputy Minister said. Elangeni TVET College Principal, TJ Kula, expressed appreciation for the Deputy Minister’s support and participation as the keynote speaker.

“Her leadership in strengthening public-private partnerships across the TVET sector inspires our ongoing efforts to connect education, industry, and communities,” Kula said. Elangeni TVET College is the second institution to receive direct fundraising support from the Deputy Minister. In August, Gondwe assisted Goldfields TVET College in the Free State in raising nearly R300 000.

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