Applications Open for PAMSA Bursary 2026-2027

Final-year students pursuing BSc and BEng degrees in Chemical Engineering, as well as recent graduates, are encouraged to apply for the Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa's (Pamsa's) Master's in Engineering Bursary and Research Programme for the 2026-2027 academic year. This prestigious program offers a limited number of eligible candidates a two-year bursary valued at R320,000, which covers full-time Master's studies at several participating South African universities, including Stellenbosch University, the University of Johannesburg, the University of the North-West, and the University of Pretoria.

The initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of chemical and process engineers dedicated to advancing a circular bioeconomy. Pamsa's executive director emphasizes that this program has been instrumental for over 15 years, serving as a significant career launchpad for many young engineers. The pulp and paper industry relies on renewable natural resources, particularly wood fiber from sustainably managed plantations, to produce essential products such as printing and writing paper, paperboard, packaging, and tissue products. Many of these items are manufactured in South Africa and often incorporate recycled paper fiber, further supporting a circular economy.

One of the program's most exciting aspects is the innovative approaches students have taken to extract value from mill process waste streams, transforming them into sustainable products. Over the years, participants have engaged in diverse projects, ranging from enhancing water and energy efficiency in paper mills to optimizing production processes and producing bio-ethanol from paper sludge. This kind of innovative thinking is invaluable for Pamsa members and the broader South African circular bioeconomy.

The application deadlines for this opportunity are as follows: the early bird deadline is 6 June 2025, with early applicants receiving priority consideration, while the final deadline is Friday, 27 June 2025. For more information or to apply, interested candidates should visit the Pamsa Bursary Programme page.

Foreword from Mr. Kinnear, CEO of Reliance Poultry Equipment

"As we enter 2025, Reliance Poultry Equipment remains committed to advancing the poultry industry through innovation, sustainability, and excellence. With over three decades of experience, we have built a reputation for delivering high-quality poultry equipment tailored to the needs of farmers across South and Sub-Saharan Africa. Looking ahead, our mission is to continue enhancing farm productivity, sustainability, and efficiency through cutting-edge solutions and strategic partnerships. We are dedicated to ensuring that poultry farming remains a viable, profitable, and future-ready industry." - Mr. Peter Kinnear, CEO, Reliance Poultry Equipment

Poultry Equipment: Shaping the Future of Poultry Farming

As one of the leading poultry equipment manufacturers and distributors in the region, Reliance Poultry Equipment continues to set industry benchmarks in quality, efficiency, and sustainability. The company's focus for 2025 is centered on innovation, automation, and farmer success.

Key Focus Areas for 2025:

Automation & Smart Farming Solutions

We are investing in automated feeding, drinking, and climate control systems to improve farm productivity and reduce operational costs. These advancements will help farmers optimize resource management and maintain optimal conditions for flock health.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Farming Practices

With growing global emphasis on sustainability, we are committed to offering energy-efficient and waste-reducing poultry solutions. Our reconditioning services also help extend the lifespan of equipment, reducing environmental impact.

Expansion & Industry Collaboration

Reliance Poultry Equipment aims to expand its footprint, reaching more farmers with customized solutions for large and small-scale poultry operations. We will continue collaborating with industry stakeholders, government initiatives, and research institutions to drive sustainable growth in the poultry sector.

Supporting Farmers with Training & After-Sales Excellence

We believe that empowering farmers is key to industry growth. In 2025, we will expand training programs and provide ongoing support to ensure that farmers get the best out of their equipment. Looking Ahead

As the agricultural sector evolves, Reliance Poultry Equipment remains steadfast in its mission to support, innovate, and lead. By embracing advanced technologies, sustainability practices, and customer-focused strategies, we are well-positioned to shape the future of poultry farming in South Africa and beyond.

Road Services in South Africa

Road services play a critical role in South Africa's transportation infrastructure, supporting economic growth, trade, and daily mobility. The country has an extensive road network that connects cities, rural areas, and neighboring countries, making road transport the backbone of commerce and industry.

Efficient road services ensure the safe and smooth movement of goods and people. This includes road maintenance, traffic management, and emergency response services. Well-maintained roads reduce travel time, lower vehicle maintenance costs, and improve road safety. However, challenges such as potholes, congestion, and inadequate public transport systems affect the efficiency of road services.

Government initiatives, such as the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), oversee the development and maintenance of major highways and toll roads. Investments in road upgrades, smart traffic management systems, and alternative transport solutions are essential to improving mobility and reducing congestion in urban areas.

Additionally, road services are vital for emergency response, ensuring that ambulances, fire trucks, and law enforcement can reach their destinations quickly. Reliable road networks also enhance tourism, making travel between key destinations smoother and more enjoyable.

While road infrastructure development remains a priority, there is also a need for sustainable solutions, such as improved public transport, alternative fuels, and smart road technology. By enhancing road services, South Africa can boost economic activity, improve road safety, and create a more efficient transport system for all citizens.

The Importance of Water Saving in South Africa

Water is one of South Africa's most precious and limited resources. As a water-scarce country, South Africa faces ongoing challenges due to climate change, population growth, and increasing demand for water in agriculture, industry, and households. Efficient water usage is essential to ensure long-term sustainability and prevent future shortages.

South Africa's rainfall is lower than the global average, and many regions experience frequent droughts. The country's reliance on inconsistent rainfall means that careful water management is crucial for maintaining supplies for drinking, sanitation, food production, and economic activities. When water is wasted, it reduces availability for essential uses and threatens ecosystems, agriculture, and industries that rely on a stable water supply.

Saving water helps conserve natural ecosystems such as rivers, wetlands, and dams, which play a vital role in water filtration and biodiversity. When these water sources dry up due to overuse or drought, it negatively impacts wildlife, farming communities, and people who depend on them. Efficient water use also reduces pressure on South Africa's aging water infrastructure, preventing costly repairs and water losses due to leaks and inefficiencies.

Water-saving measures, such as fixing leaks, using water-efficient appliances, harvesting rainwater, and reducing unnecessary consumption, can make a significant difference. Government initiatives, businesses, and individuals must work together to promote sustainable water use through education, improved technology, and responsible consumption practices.

With growing concerns about climate change and future water security, South Africans must prioritize water conservation. By taking proactive steps to reduce wastage, the country can ensure a more resilient and sustainable water supply for generations to come.

6 days ago

Ramaphosa to Welcome Austrian President for Key State Visit Focused on Trade and Culture

President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to host the President of Austria, Alexander van der Bellen, at the Union Buildings in Pretoria this Friday. This significant State Visit aims to strengthen the growing partnership between South Africa and Austria.



Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson for President Ramaphosa, indicated that the visit offers a valuable opportunity to deepen relations across multiple sectors. These include arts and culture, education, renewable energy, waste management, as well as trade and investment.



According to Magwenya, the relationship between the two nations is founded on mutual respect, a commitment to multilateralism, and an expanding network of economic and cultural exchanges. He further explained that despite the two countries being geographically distant and differing in size and economic scale, both share common goals in international cooperation, sustainable development, and global trade partnerships.



As part of the days programme, both leaders will jointly participate in a plenary session at the South Africa–Austria Business Forum. This session is expected to promote business opportunities and foster collaboration between industries from both nations.



The Austrian Embassy in Pretoria highlights that diplomatic ties between the two countries have been well established since 1962, when Austria officially upgraded its mission in South Africa to a full embassy. The embassy also notes that Austria is regarded as a key economic ally with strong technological expertise and as an important source of tourism to South Africa.



Austria’s involvement extends across various sectors, particularly in science, energy, culture, and the economy. Furthermore, South Africa is recognised by Austria as a vital strategic partner within the Global South and a major voice in the BRICS alliance.



The visit follows recent high-level engagements, including the 2023 visit by Austria’s Federal Minister for European and International Affairs, Alexander Schallenberg. His visit included meetings with South Africa’s former Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Naledi Pandor, as well as participation in a major business forum attended by more than 100 corporate delegates.



During that visit, Austria also opened the Austrian Cultural Forum in Pretoria — the first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa — reflecting the deepening cultural ties between the two countries. Additionally, Austrian Ambassador Romana Königsbrun officially presented her credentials to President Ramaphosa in March 2023.

1 week ago

South Africa Unveils 59 Biodiversity Projects to Boost Green Finance

SAs Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has introduced 59 biodiversity projects designed to attract over $450,000 (approximately R8 million) in green investment. The announcement was made by Minister Dr. Dion George during the department’s budget vote in Parliament.



These projects are part of a broader strategy linked to the newly launched Biodiversity Sector Investment Portal, an online platform aimed at connecting investors with sustainable, bankable biodiversity initiatives. The goal is to drive environmental protection while stimulating economic growth.



Dr. George stated that, in response to budget pressures, the DFFE is adopting strict financial discipline alongside innovative funding models to maximise the impact of available resources. According to him, each division within the department is expected to actively seek alternative revenue streams, minimise wasteful spending, and prioritise securing long-term, sustainable financing.



The department is also advancing draft regulations to enable the commercialisation of carbon credits, opening doors for generating income from environmental assets. This move is expected to support job creation, conservation efforts, and attract more private-sector investment into the green economy.



Among the key financing tools is the Green Fund, managed by the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA), which continues to support groundbreaking projects in climate action, renewable energy, and waste management.



The investment portal has already facilitated commitments exceeding $450,000 towards the showcased projects, highlighting growing investor confidence in SAs biodiversity economy.



The impact extends beyond funding. Dr. George pointed out that entities like SANParks have generated over 21,000 full-time jobs in the past five years through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), significantly contributing to inclusive development.



Progress has also been made at iSimangaliso Wetland Park, where a revised commercialisation model led to 62 contracts being signed. From September 2025, the park will start receiving direct revenue from tourism concessions.



In a significant boost for climate resilience, the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is preparing to roll out a $40 million project funded by the Green Climate Fund. This initiative is set to directly benefit more than 350,000 people and indirectly support an estimated 1.5 million through ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction.



The DFFEs focus on innovative financing marks a pivotal step toward strengthening SAs biodiversity economy while delivering socio-economic benefits.

1 week ago

Durban to Host CPTED Dialogue Aimed at Enhancing Urban Safety

eThekwini councillors have approved Durban as the host city for the upcoming Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) dialogue, in partnership with the African Forum on Urban Safety, scheduled for August at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre (ICC). This event is expected to attract mayors from various African nations.



The CPTED approach gained international recognition in the 1990s, introducing strategies such as target hardening to deter crime through physical, architectural, and infrastructural improvements. eThekwini Safer Cities has noted that advancements in urban design and integrated safety strategies have significantly enhanced the effectiveness of CPTED.



The dialogue aims to achieve several key objectives, including:



- Sharing case studies that highlight the benefits of CPTED approaches.
- Examining the financial impact on the city due to public infrastructure vandalism and theft, particularly when safety measures are not integrated from the outset.
- Promoting transversal design and communication strategies to combat infrastructure vandalism.
- Exploring innovative sanitation solutions for women as a critical safety metric.
- Mobilizing stakeholders to revitalize the African Forum on Urban Safety.
- Equipping city practitioners with the knowledge to incorporate safety into their operational processes.



The municipality views this dialogue as a vital step towards establishing sustainable safety programs and strategies that can be implemented locally and throughout Africa. Participants are expected to gain valuable insights into creating safe and inclusive urban environments.



During a recent council meeting, IFP councillor Petros Mbonambi expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing its potential to position eThekwini as a leader in crime prevention. He highlighted the necessity for a fresh approach to tackling crime and violence in the metro, suggesting that this initiative could significantly reduce crime rates.



EFF councillor Ncami Khawula underscored the importance of supporting Community Policing Forums (CPFs), advocating for their provision of equipment and protection from law enforcement, as they are often vulnerable volunteers on the front lines.



Zandile Myeni, deputy mayor of eThekwini and a National Freedom Party (NFP) councillor, noted the municipalitys recent appointment to organize the dialogue, which she believes will play a crucial role in the African diaspora. She mentioned the economic benefits that hosting the event could bring to the municipality.

1 week ago

Urgent Call for Maritime Safety Reform in South Africa

During a media engagement at the Cape Town Waterfront Jetty, vessel owners gathered to hear Deputy Transport Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa discuss the ongoing National Fishing Vessel Safety Audit. This comprehensive audit, directed by the Department of Transport, has been conducted by the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) and has reached all major fishing ports across the country.



Hlengwa highlighted three critical findings from the audit thus far. Firstly, the aging fleet poses significant risks to the structural integrity of the vessels. Secondly, there are stability issues related to the vessels loading conditions, which can lead to dangerous situations. Lastly, the inefficiency of safety management systems has been identified as a major concern.



The Deputy Minister emphasized that the gathering was not merely ceremonial but aimed at ensuring oversight, accountability, and leadership in maritime safety. He pointed out that since 1996, South Africa has recorded nearly 400 fatalities in commercial fishing, with over half occurring in the Western Cape. He referenced the tragic capsizing of the MFV Lepanto, which resulted in the loss of 11 crew members last year, and the subsequent fire on its sister vessel, Armana.



Hlengwa stated that these incidents serve as warnings and calls to action that must not be ignored. The audit aims to evaluate compliance and restore accountability, particularly for small vessels, which are most vulnerable to accidents.



Thandi Mehlo, Principal Audit Officer for SAMSA in Gqeberha, noted that the age of vessels compromises their structural integrity, as steel has a limited lifespan at sea. He also mentioned challenges related to unauthorized ship redesigns and the lack of operational dry docks for vessel maintenance in recent years.



Mehlo acknowledged that exceptions had been granted to aging vessels, which has led to significant safety concerns. He expressed optimism about improvements in ship repair facilities managed by port authorities and emphasized the importance of a complete audit of all vessels within the next three years.



Looking ahead, Hlengwa outlined a roadmap that includes completing the national audit, launching a National Fishing Vessel Safety Improvement Plan, considering a recapitalization program for fishing vessels, and institutionalizing annual training and inspections. He stressed that every life lost at sea is one too many and that safety is a fundamental right for all. Hlengwa called for a movement that prioritizes life and dignity, positioning South Africa as a leader in maritime safety across the continent.