Why it is best to 'pay yourself first'

 

Every July, we are reminded of the importance of saving during Savings Month. Yet few of us manage to fix our lack of savings. That’s why Smart About Money, an initiative by the Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (ASISA), is campaigning for you to #PayYourselfFirst.

Pay yourself first is a budgeting technique that ensures you allocate a fixed amount to savings each payday before you spend on anything else. Establishing this habit will help you be disciplined and achieve your financial goals.

Start by working out what you spend on essentials, such as accommodation, transport, electricity and groceries. Then set a realistic amount within what is left of your income that you can save every month.

If you leave saving until the end of the month, you will be tempted to spend on non-essentials, such as clothing, entertainment or eating out. You will then convince yourself that you have no money left to save.

If you pay yourself first, your savings are transferred from your account as soon as you are paid. Soon, your contribution will feel like your other deductions or debit orders, and you will learn to live without this money.

Pay yourself first

The key to paying yourself first is to set up a separate savings account or investment, such as a unit trust or exchange-traded fund (ETF), and automate a transfer or payment to that account on the day you are paid.

For emergency savings or short-term goals like a holiday or renovations, choose a savings account with a fixed term aligned to your saving horizon.

For medium- to long-term savings, consider a unit trust or ETF with potentially higher returns.

Giving your savings goal a name, targeting an amount and working out how long you need to reach it, will discourage you from raiding your savings.  Use tools like the Smart About Money Savings Goal Calculator to determine how much you need to save each month.

Even if your initial savings are small, being aware of your goal should prevent impulse spending and motivate you to increase your savings amount when your earnings improve or your expenses reduce.

Setting goals

You can start small with just one goal, but over time, you could set up several savings and investment accounts tailored to different goals' timelines.

·         An emergency fund

Start with an emergency fund. An emergency fund helps you to stick to your budget and not raid your savings when financial emergencies, such as injury or illness, home or car repairs, arise.

·         A short-term goal

A short-term goal takes between a year and three years to reach and provides for expenses such as an appliance, a mini-holiday, a wedding or December expenses.

·         A medium-term goal

Save for bigger things, such as an overseas holiday, a wedding, a deposit on a house or a car over three to ten years.

·         A long-term goal

Save for more than 10 years for bigger goals, such as your retirement or your children’s tertiary education. Use the Smart About Money Retirement Savings calculator to work out how much you need to save, and consider a retirement annuity if your employer does not have a fund or you need to supplement your savings.

·         If you are in debt

If you have costly short-term debt, start to pay yourself first by paying down your debts and reducing the interest that is compounding against you. Paying more than the minimum repayment and using the avalanche or snowball method will pay off your debt faster. Avoid new debt by providing for financial emergencies.

Start small

Start small if you need to and build your savings habit. Even modest savings compound over time, and the more you avoid debt, the more you will be able to save.  

Remember:

Saving for a goal helps you in two ways:

·         You spend less on your goal than you would if you used credit that costs you interest.

·         Your savings earn interest that reduces the amount you need to save.

Saving in a retirement fund can also save you tax, which can be used to boost your savings.

If you want to know more about these, or any other personal finance topics, please visit Smart About Money. This free-to-use consumer financial education website is an Association of Savings and Investments South Africa (ASISA) initiative. It can guide you to better money management at any stage of life, from starting your first job, through family life, retirement and beyond.

A Magical Season Awaits You in Durban

 

By Fred Felton | Dec. 9, 2024

The red carpet is being rolled out for tourists visiting Durban. The City aims to boost tourism and ensure a safer, more magical experience for everyone.

Durban is ready to welcome you! | Photo: Supplied. 

The eThekwini Municipality in collaboration with South African Tourism, the Provincial Tourism and Film Authority, and various private sector partners went on a roadshow around Durban on the ‘’Tourism Takes the Lead Roadshow,’’ on 4 December. This was done under the theme ‘’Exploring Durban’s Travel Adventures Together,’’ this highlighted Durban’s readiness for visitors during the summer and festive time.

EThekwini Municipality has worked to improve its attractions. The improvements include a more stable beach water quality, swimming pools that are fully operational, a safer city strategy and improved maintenance standards.

There is so much to do in Durban including a ride on the Rickshaw Bus, a visit to Mitchell Park, enjoying the party scene at Florida Road, Segway Rides along the promenade, Gondola Rides and Rickshaw rides.

Segway Rides. One of the many things to do in Durban. | Photo: Supplied. 

The Metro Police, along with law enforcement agencies, making sure of high visibility at key tourist hotspots. There will also be access-controlled roads, a free park-and-ride system, and 500 newly trained Metro Police officers are being deployed and 170 high performance vehicles will be patrolling Durban to make sure visitors are safe.

At present there are 21 immaculate beaches open and 30 public swimming pools open, eThekwini Municipality will also monitor water quality throughout the festive season, making sure visitors enjoy Durban’s pristine beaches.

The Cube on Innes Road, Morningside. Features panoramic views of Durban. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

Visitors can also look forward to many events this festive season including the Durban Jazz Festival and the eagerly awaited Fact Durban Rocks New Year’s Eve celebration. There is always a festive buzz in Umhlanga and Florida Road has entertainment day and night.

‘’Florida Road is one of our vibrant culinary experiences,’’ noted Durban Tourism Deputy Head, Winile Mntungwa.

There will also be an economic boost this summer season, with projections for 2024/2025 estimating over 1.3 million visitors, a 75% occupancy rate, R2.5 billion in direct spending, and R6.3 billion added to GDP – which translates to more than 11,000 new jobs.

A new attraction on the beachfront is the Durban Beach Café which was opened on 22 November this year.

The festivities continued this year when the MSC Euribia visited Durban recently which announced the start of the 2024/2025 cruise season. The MSC Musica also brought a wave of international visitors to Durban recently. ‘’We are excited to welcome thousands of international travellers to the City,’’ noted eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba.

For more info visit: www.visitdurban.travel or follow them on social media @DBNTourism

Registration Open for Durban FilmMart 2024

 

By Fred Felton | June 12, 2024.

Next month the Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) will have the 15^th edition of Durban FilmMart (DFM), titled ‘’African Visions Unleashed: From Disruption to Accountability’’, scheduled for 19 – 22 July 2024. This year the theme looks at the transformative power of film in reflecting societal issues and fighting for change, urging the industry towards better social responsibility and accountability.

This era has been marked by significant upheaval and re-evaluation of structures and norms, DFM 2024 is aiming to take a long hard look at the film industry, providing a platform for critical engagement on topical issues such as social responsibility, protection of IP, rights for artists and filmmakers, issues around labour, equality in the workplace, conduct codes, and the impact of climate change on productions. The focus will be on highlighting the potential of cinema as a tool for transformation.

‘’Film is more than an art form or a business; it is a powerful mirror for society, offering reflections that can lead to real change,’’ said Magdalene Reddy, Director of the Durban FilmMart Institute.

This year DFM will feature a wide-ranging programme designed to foster high-quality collaborations and provide valuable insights into the filmmaking process. Key components of the programme include fiction, documentary and animation projects being developed, showcased in the Pitch and Finance Forum. There will also be keynote talks, masterclasses, panel discussions and think tanks.

DFM 2024 aims to build on the legacy of last year’s theme, ‘’African Constellations’’, and continues to celebrate the expansiveness of the African film industry, while also pushing for a future where the film industry is as responsible as it is creative. The DFM programme will reflect DFMI’s core values of inclusivity, diversity and accessibility, with sessions aimed at addressing key industry challenges and opportunities.

DFM offers attendees the chance to be part of this conversation and to network with fellow professionals in a dynamic and engaging environment.

The Durban FilmMart Institute receives principal funding from the Durban Film Office and the eThekwini Municipality. 

For more info and to register visit: https://durbanfilmmart.co.za/

Celebrate the One Year Anniversary of Rockets Beach Club Umhlanga

 

Redefining Luxury Coastal Living

Rockets Beach Club Umhlanga is the brainchild of Restauranteur and entrepreneur Sean Barber. In the month of May this premium destination celebrates its first anniversary since the doors opened in May 2023.

In just one year, this captivating beachside haven has elevated the standard of hospitality, carving out a niche as the epitome of luxury coastal living along the picturesque shores of Umhlanga beach.

Since opening Rockets Beach Club Umhlanga has captivated the hearts of foodies and nightlife seekers with an unparalleled experience. Boasting star-studded weekend line-ups and an ambiance that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with the laid-back charm of coastal life, the venue has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination.

Nestled on the vibrant coastline of the Indian Ocean, Rockets Beach Club Umhlanga spreads across 1500 square metres and three distinct floors, maintaining the signature ambiance Rockets is renowned for, attracting visitors from both near and far. Guests embark on a culinary experience with Rockets’ fusion menu featuring Mediterranean delights, tapas and sushi, all savoured against the breath-taking backdrop of Umhlanga’s golden sands.

The weekly rotation of top local and international DJs ensures an electric atmosphere, whether patrons are indulging in cocktails, savouring sunset vistas from the rooftop bar or dancing the night away at Lolita’s club floor.

As Rockets Beach Club Umhlanga celebrates its first year, it solidifies its standing as the premier luxury beach club in the Southern Hemisphere, a testament to Sean Barber’s visionary leadership and the enduring allure of the Rockets Lifestyle, delivered in true Beach Club style.

Visit Rockets Beach Club Umhlanga, celebrate their first year anniversary, there’s no better time to immerse oneself in the enchantment of coastal living, Rockets-style.

Keep your eyes on their social media pages for upcoming events.

Address

9 McCausland Crescent, Umhlanga

Parking is available behind the establishment, drive in through the gate.

Trading Hours:

Monday to Sunday: 11am – 2am

NB: No vests and no firearms.

To book your next event or function:

Call 031 110 0369 or email umhlanga@rocketslife.tv

For more information visit: https://www.rocketslife.tv/

Follow them on social media:

Instagram: Rockets Beach Club https://www.instagram.com/rockets.beachclub/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rockets.lifestyle?lang=en

Facebook: Rockets Beach Club https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090610162093

Check their social media pages for weekly event flyers and updates. 

 

EThekwini Municipality Invests in Bulk Infrastructure for Westown

 

By Fred Felton | Apr. 24, 2024.

There is just under a year to go before the official opening of Westown Square, a clear sign that the new 100ha ‘City of the West’ is going ahead as planned.

JSE listed Balwin Properties signed lease agreement with Fundamentum Property Group to develop a R2bn eco estate as part of the Shongweni Development. | Photo: Thuli Dlamini. 

EThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda was on-site at the development along with development partners, Fundamentum Property Group (FPG) and Balwin Properties (BP) on 18 April 2024 to see the progress of Westown Square. This comes after the City had invested R600 million in bulk infrastructure in the region.

Mayor Kaunda was also witness to the signing of a R2 billion agreement between FPG and BP for an eco-estate residential development. ‘’This investment will yield huge returns for the City,’’ said Mayor Kaunda.

This 15-year strategic catalytic Shongweni Urban Development consists of nine mixed-use precincts. ‘’We are excited that this is going to be the first real Smart City in the province and will make eThekwini a world-class City,’’ noted Mayor Kaunda.

Carlos Correia, CEO of Fundamentum Property Group explains how far the development has come to the city delegation. | Photo: Thuli Dlamini. 

There have been 1 000 people, mainly from the area and surrounds, that have been hired for the construction and bulk infrastructure and Westown Square.

According to Steve Brookes, CEO of Balwin Properties approximately 8 000 jobs are expected to be created during the construction phase of the Shongweni Eco Park with around 500 permanent jobs to be created on completion. 

Construction on the Westown Square retail experience is on course for completion in March 2025. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

There will also be infrastructure upgrades which include two new bridges and a total make-over of the existing two-lane Kassier Road across the M13 and N3 into four lanes with a centre median. The M13 bridge will be rebuilt and a new pedestrian bridge is being added over the N3 along with a new loop ramp and bridge over Kassier Road providing direct access into Westown.

There has also been a R1.4 billion investment that has been triggered through the investment by Fundamentum with Absa Commercial and Investment Bank’s backing the 50 000m² Westown retail experience. ‘’This investment was cemented as Balwin signed a formal agreement with Fundamentum for their 1 260-apartment lifestyle estate, that will comprise of 20 phases, to be built over the next few years and is due to launch later this year,’’ said Carlos Correia, CEO of Fundamentum.

MSC Virtuosa Visits Durban

 

By Fred Felton | Apr. 17, 2024

This month I was invited to a very special visit by the MSC Virtuosa which visited Durban briefly for a crest exchange ceremony with The Master of the ship and local government authorities. The ceremony was done in the presence of MSC Cruises Top Management.

MSC Virtuosa visited Durban recently. | Photo: Fred Felton

‘’The MSC Virtuosa is the largest passenger cruise ship to arrive in Durban,’’ said said Ross Volk, MD of MSC Cruises.

He also mentioned that the ship has far less emissions. Volk also noted that MSC is planning to put 5000 South Africans on their ships as part of the workforce.

Crest Exchange on board the MSC Virtuosa with Ross Volk, MD of MSC Cruises, MSC Crew and local authorities. | Photo: Fred Felton 

This cruise ship has a wide variety of features which will keep many passengers entertained for days on end. The ship features the Galleria Virtuosa which is like an indoor shopping mall with an interactive ceiling display.

Galleria Virtuosa. | Photo: Fred Felton

You can also enjoy live entertainment, shows, and the children can get hours of entertainment at the kids club which features LEGO activities.

The MSC Virtuosa has 5 unique pools for guests and even a waterpark at sea. There are plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, bars, a casino and of course MSC Yacht Club.

One of the cabins on board MSC Virtuosa | Photo: Fred Felton 

Cabins include luxury suites, a duplex and balcony options for those that enjoy a view. You can also find a Robot Bar on the ship which features a robot that makes your drinks for you. 

Dazzling staircase. | Photo: Fred Felton 

I sat down with Ross Volk to hear about what is coming up for MSC Cruises in South Africa this year:

What is a crest exchange ceremony?

‘’In years gone by from a maritime perspective people didn’t know if you were friend or foe coming in on a sail ship. So the crest exchange is a symbolism of arriving in a port as a gesture of goodwill and welcoming, the port hands over a crest to the ship and the ship hands over a crest to the port to show that the vessel has called and they come in peace and it’s all about camaraderie and the maritime tradition.’’

Can you tell us what MSC Cruise Ships are expected this year?

‘’MSC Musica will be our permanent vessel for the season, starting Mid-November through to Mid-April again Cape Town, Durban but the majority Durban. So about 80% of the calls are out of Durban and 20% out of Cape Town, from an MSC perspective it’s a little early to tell but hopefully we will have one or two other vessels calling in 2025.’’

What is the capacity of MSC Musica?

‘’MSC Musica  has a maximum capacity of 3200.’’

For more information on the MSC Virtuosa visit www.msccruises.co.za

 

April 2022 Floods - A year later

The month of April will forever be etched on the minds and hearts of many people in KwaZulu-Natal, especially eThekwini residents. A year later, we remember all those who perished in the devastating floods, lost homes and livelihoods. 

THE MUNICIPALITY has made significant progress to restore sewer pipes in areas where sanitation infrastructure was severely damaged during the April 2022 floods. Major repairs to wastewater pumpstations that were impacting the beaches were completed in December last year. However, some of the pump stations have since had new faults. The causes of these new faults include mechanical failure and vandalism. Repairs on five affected coastal wastewater pumpstations are currently being completed. 

The Municipality is also prioritising routine maintenance and refurbishment of all wastewater pumpstations. 

Repairs to the affected Wastewater Treatment Works is underway and many of the treatment works are back online, though some are not operating at 100 percent capacity. 

5 Reasons to Visit Africa's Travel Indaba

 

By Fred Felton | 2 May 2022

This year Africa’s Travel Indaba returns to Durban after a long absence due to the Covid-19 pandemic. There are many reasons to attend this travel and trade show in 2022.

BONDay held on 2 May 2022 was full of insightful talks. | Photo: Fred Felton

EThekwini Municipality Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda said the signature travel trade show plays a major role in boosting the City's tourism economy. 

Here are 5 reasons why you should attend Africa’s Travel Indaba:

Networking

There are many events and workshops held during Africa’s Travel Indaba. These include Speed Networking events, talks and workshops about travel and tourism. At these events you might just find yourself bumping into someone who can help you with your tourism business. With around 3 700 delegates attending the travel and trade show you might even get a big booking for your accommodation venue.

Exhibition Stands

Africa’s Travel Indaba is the perfect location to set up a stand for your tourism business. It is also the premier place for buyers to visit and find out about the many tourism experiences on offer. Some accommodation stands have received huge bookings through this route.

Business Talks

There will be a variety of talks on offer at Africa’s Travel Indaba. The show will be on from 2 to 5 May 2022 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre. Talks include ‘Bleisure Travel’ which will unpack what is important for tourism stakeholders and business owners in a Covid-19 environment. There will also be an insightful talk on ‘Reimagining localism and regionalism in tourism, it will look at the business case for Intra Africa Travel.

Fun Run

There will also be a fun run for Indaba delegates on the 4^th of May early in the morning. Delegates can walk or run along the Durban promenade and enjoy the beauty of Durban and the sea as they enjoy the early morning air and all that Africa has to offer.

Tourism Opportunities

With so many tourists descending on Durban there will be plenty of opportunities for tourism operators to showcase all that Durban and KwaZulu-Natal have to offer. These include the Florida Road experience, Umhlanga, the Durban promenade and so much more.

‘’The show will contribute immensely to the KZN’s tourism recovery. This translates to a much needed economic boost for the province,’’ said Acting CEO of Tourism KwaZulu-Natal, Phindile Makwakwa.

For more information on Africa’s Travel Indaba visit: www.indaba-southafrica.co.za

#TravelIndaba2022

EThekwini hosts fruitful engagement with Editors

EThekwini hosts fruitful 

engagement with Editors

IN A bid to strengthen media relations the Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda, invited all Editors to introduce the newly elected leadership to the captains of newsrooms. The municipality views the media as one of its important stakeholders, indispensable for it to aggressively advance the agenda of development. Deputy City Managers had an opportunity to shed some light on the anatomy of their clusters and the strides that have been made by the municipality to meet the needs of all its stakeholders. Cllr Kaunda commended the media fraternity for the good work it is doing of being the eyes and the ears of the public. He urged it to continue to keep the municipality on its toes but also humbly appealed to them to also pay attention to the good developmental work it is doing against all odds to improve the wellbeing of its residents. He also communicated mega plans that are afoot to grow the economy of eThekwini which at the heart of it, is the advancement of Radical Economic Transformation. ''With this gathering we want to send a clear message to the media that we value its existence. We are of the strong conviction that we cannot strengthen our democracy without the media on board. We are not saying it must heap praises on us, but we humbly request that it must also help us to tell a good story about the municipality. We must all be mindful of the fact that if we keep on publishing negative stories, there is no sane investor that will consider our city for investment. However, where we have shortcomings, you are at liberty to ask difficult questions because at the end of the day, we spend public money, and we must at all times account as to how the public funds was used'' Cllr Kaunda vowed that engagements of this nature are going to feature prominently in this current leadership's agenda to take the municipality to new heights. 

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Entries deadline for inaugural Durban Tourism Awards looms

THE first annual Durban Tourism Awards is fast approaching. The municipality therefore urges all local tourism product owners to enter for the awards before the deadline, 25 February. The awards scheduled to take place in May during the Tourism Indaba, will recognise products in the tourism industry value chain that inspire visitors' trust by demonstrating the City's high standards and commitment to excellence in the tourism industry. The awards also aim to reward products that attract tourists to the City and contribute to job creation and economic growth. The awards categories include service excellence, tour operators, emerging entrepreneur, meetings and exhibitions, sustainable development, tour guides, upcoming filmmakers, and a special Mayor's award. To enter online and for more information on the categories visit www.durbantourismawards.com 

Manual entry forms are available at all Durban Tourism satellite offices. EThekwini Mayor, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda said: ''By rewarding these businesses, we hope that others will be inspired to explore innovative ways in which they can adjust to the dynamic conditions that influence the global tourism industry.'' 

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Property owners advised to inspect general valuation roll

The municipality is undertaking a general valuation of all properties across the municipality. This is in accordance with the Municipal Property Rates Act (MPRA) No. 6 of 2004, as amended. Property owners are encouraged to inspect the roll between 11 February and 31 March 2022 and lodge an objection if deemed necessary. The new valuation roll (GV 2022) will come into effect on 1 July 2022. The date of valuation has been determined as 2 July 2021 and the general valuation will reflect the market value of all properties in accordance with property market conditions that apply to this date. There are about 560 000 properties consisting of commercial, industrial, specialised properties, single residential, sectional title, and vacant land throughout the eThekwini municipal area. Physical inspection of every property was neither feasible, affordable, nor required in terms of the law. However, inspections are undertaken to verify information already on hand or where such information was considered incomplete. The Municipality has access to a vast database of property information including building plans, Deeds Office data, geographic information systems, aerial photography, information obtained from previous inspections, as well as data from property sales in each area. This information is regularly maintained, and inspections are routinely carried out where alterations, additions and new developments are completed. The valuation roll can be inspected at the office of  the Municipal Manager, Valuation Roll Division, 5th Floor Embassy Building, 199 Anton Lembede (Smith) Street, Durban and at Sizakala Customer Centres during office hours from 7.30am to 4pm. Objection forms can be obtained from the same address. 

The roll and forms are also available on the municipality's website: http://www.durban.gov.za:8000/propertysearch.htm 

EThekwini is ready to host you safely

 

EThekwini is ready 

to host you safely

The municipality has implemented plans to keep holidaymakers safe during the festive season. Visitors and residents are urged to work with law enforcement to ensure a safe and incident-free holiday. To prepare for the high numbers of visitors to eThekwini's beaches, 200 000 wristbands have been procured. All children between the ages of 0 and 12 years on the beachfront will be required to wear a wristband which contains the details of their guardians. If a child is separated from their guardian, 38 child-minders have been employed to look after them until they are reunited with their families. There have been situations where some guardians have abused this service. They leave the children at the care centre and go out and have fun. The minders are aware of this and will report to authorities anyone caught abandoning children. Tags for children can be obtained as follows: For central beaches they are obtained at Addington beach; South beach; Wedge beach between North and Bay Beaches lawns; Battery beach and Laguna beach. In the South the tags are obtainable at Toti Beach in places where tents for separated children will be erected. The overnight facility for lost children that have not been united with their guardians is at Ellis Brown school. Around 65 beach guides will be stationed across the various beaches to help with information and safety and security. An additional 160 seasonal lifeguards have also been deployed at the various beaches. All bathing beaches will be operational between 6am and 6.30pm. There will be road closures especially in roads leading to the beaches. Previously permits were issued for people to access the beach even where there are road closures. This  year that facility is not available in order to limit congestion on the beach parking lots. Measures to close roads have already been implemented as of 12 December with the placement of bollards. The bollards will be manned by Metro Police from Blue Lagoon down to the Point Waterfront. There will also be access control at beaches in the North and the South. Law enforcement officers will also be out in full force to enforce by-laws with about 168 contract security employed. By-laws to be paid more attention to include the no sleeping in cars, buses or beaches, no braaing or open fires on the beach and most importantly no alcohol allowed. To control traffic on the beachfront, certain roads leading to the beachfront will be boom gate controlled. The park and ride facility is available at no cost and will be operational from 7am to 10am and 10pm to 12am on non-peak days. The service will be available on peak days from 10am to 10pm. This service will operate from the Drive-In site. Road safety campaigns to enforce municipal by-laws will also be visible to ensure that unroadworthy vehicles, drunken driving and irresponsible conduct on the road is curbed. Public amenities on the beachfront will be open from Monday to Thursday from 6am to 8pm and on Friday to Sunday and public holidays from 6am to 10pm. On holiday peak days a 24-hour service will be provided at the Point, Addington, South, New Beach, Country Club, eThekwini and Bay of Plenty beaches. ''The public is encouraged to enjoy their holidays and make memories with their loved ones in a considerate and responsible manner. Remember that COVID-19 is still a reality and we must take care of ourselves and those close to us and observe all COVID-19 protocols.'' said Mayor, Cllr Mxolisi Kaunda. 

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Calls for Africa to invest in AIDS research

The global community inclusive of scientists, policy makers, activists, and government leaders from Africa gathered in Durban to review global AIDS strategies and to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on HIV/AIDS. South African Deputy President David Mabuza, in his capacity as the Chairperson of the SA National Aids Council on 6 December opened the 21st International Conference on AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Africa (ICASA). The conference was held virtually from 6 to 11 December to amplify national, continental, and global integration to reach epidemic control in Africa. 

The conference was held under the theme 'Africa's AIDS response: The race to 2030 - Evidence. Scale up. Accelerate.' Deputy President Mabuza called on Africa to invest in research and innovation to build resilient capabilities for the development and manufacture of critical vaccines, drugs, and ancillary medical supplies that will support the roll-out of health programmes on the continent. ''This is the time to move beyond rhetoric and forge collaborative platforms for research and innovation to promote intra-Africa cooperation in the development and provision of health solutions that the continent needs,'' he said. 

''The lesson the COVID-19 vaccine rollout programme has taught us is that as a continent, we need to invest in our own capabilities to overcome the hogging of vaccines by wealthier nations thereby effectively responding to current and future epidemics and pandemics.'' He said Africa was more than capable using the recent example of South African scientists detecting the genome of the Omicron variant and its mutations with precision. Executive Director of UNAIDS Winnie Byanyima said to end AIDS and COVID-19 and to prevent future pandemics, the continent needs to protect human rights and build trust in health system. ''We must deepen the push to eliminate the disproportionate vulnerability of girls to HIV. We must get girls into school and keep them there. While they are in school, they need comprehensive sexual education to provide them with lifesaving information. Across this continent, comprehensive sexual education is opposed by traditional conservative forces. But we must build a movement to make it part of school curriculum and tackle violence against women and children through legislation and the courts,'' said Byanyima.