For Creamer Media in Johannesburg, I’m Thabi Madiba.

Making headlines: Ramaphosa says wealthy countries have an obligation to support climate action in poor countries; ANC’s Nomvula Mokonyane optimistic about full youth voter registration; And, SABS calls for local companies to have whistleblowing management system

Ramaphosa says wealthy countries have an obligation to support climate action in poor countries

President Cyril Ramaphosa noted that with improved funding for the country’s Just Energy Transition, government will be able to invest substantially in strengthening the country’s electricity grid and new renewable energy generation.

In his weekly letter to the nation, Ramaphosa said that this will make a significant contribution towards ending loadshedding and securing a reliable and affordable supply of electricity.

He added that this will, in turn, promote economic growth, make our exports more competitive and create employment.

South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Investment Plan, which was released last year, estimates that the country will need around $98-billion over the next five years to transition towards a low-carbon economy.

Ramaphosa also noted that global development financing, if properly directed and provided on a significant scale, can make a huge difference to the lives of people living in countries like South Africa.

ANC’s Nomvula Mokonyane optimistic about full youth voter registration

African National Congress first deputy secretary general Nomvula Mokonyane is optimistic that young people will turn up in their numbers to register to vote.

Mokonyane made the comments during the Online Voter Registration Drive in Hazyview, in Mpumalanga which was aimed at supporting the Independent Electoral Commission’s efforts to mobilise eligible citizens to vote.

The ANC has begun preparations for the 2024 national elections. Mokonyane, alongside Mpumalanga ANC leaders, led the campaign where netball and soccer tournaments were organised as part of encouraging young people to register to vote.

According to Ehlanzeni ANC Youth League regional secretary, registering young people to vote meant a registration for the future of South Africa.

And, SABS calls for local companies to have whistleblowing management system

The South African Bureau of Standards has published South African National Standard 37002 whistleblowing management systems guidelines. 

This document provides the framework and guidelines for any organisation to implement a whistleblowing management system based on the principles of trust, impartiality and protection.

Acting SABS CEO explained that whistleblowing has the potential to prevent and eliminate corruption, fraud and illegal or wrongful acts that can save companies millions of rands.

He added that the act of whistleblowing can be daunting and life-threatening in some cases, and it is important that organisations are cognisant of the need to design systems that can protect the identity of whistleblowers.

He said that the guidelines contained in SANS 37002 are generic and intended to be applicable to all organisations. This is regardless of type, size, nature of activity, and whether in the public, private or not-for profit sectors, he added.

That’s a roundup of news making headlines today

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