What an incredible journey it has been! Here are a few moments from the announcement of the 2024 national and provincial election results. Thank you, South Africa, for making our voices heard!
H.E. Beryl Rose Sisulu presented credentials to President Andrés Manuel López Obrador
We are pleased to announce that Ambassador Beryl Rose Sisulu has presented her credentials, accrediting her as the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa to the United Mexican States. This diplomatic ceremony took place at the National Palace, where she was received by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador in an atmosphere of respect and friendship.
The bilateral relations between Mexico and South Africa have strengthened over the years, forging bonds of friendship and cooperation. This year is particularly significant as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s freedom, a milestone achieved with the decisive intervention of Mexico. This historic alliance continues to be a cornerstone of our diplomatic and commercial relations.
Ambassador Sisulu joins the diplomatic community with the firm purpose of further strengthening these ties during her tenure, which will encompass not only Mexico but also Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama. We wish her great success in her mission and are confident that her leadership will significantly contribute to the development of our bilateral and regional relations.
Congratulations to Ambassador Beryl Rose Sisulu and best wishes for success in her mission!
- Ambassador Alessandro Modiano, from the Italian Republic
- Ambassador Shozab Abbas, from the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
- Ambassador Rachel Elizabeth Moseley, from the Commonwealth of Australia
- Ambassador Einat Kranz Neiger, from the State of Israel
- Ambassador Nikolaos Kotrokois, from the Hellenic Republic
- Ambassador Djamel Moktefi, from the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria
- Ambassador Beryl Rose Sisulu, from the Republic of South Africa
- Ambassador Jamal Sharifuddin bin Johan, from the Federation of Malaysia
- Ambassador Timur Primbetov, from the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Ambassador Amr Abdelaziz Moustafa Abdelwareth, from the Arab Republic of Egypt
- Ambassador María Gabriela Quinteros, from the Argentine Republic
- Ambassador Santiago Wins Arnábal, from the Oriental Republic of Uruguay
- Ambassador Delphine Marie Michèle Nicole Borione, from the French Republic
- Ambassador Rooge Thammongkol, from the Kingdom of Thailand
Saluting former Minister Naledi Pandor
Saluting former Minister Naledi Pandor
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Praises from around the world are rolling in for Dr Naledi Pandor as she steps down from her government position after serving as a Member of Parliament (MP) since 1994.
Pandor is one of the Ministers who is not returning to Parliament to serve in the seventh administration.
In February this year, the outgoing International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Minister alluded to her retirement during an African National Congress (ANC) event in Cape Town.
She stated that she would “in any case not hold public office” after serving in the position since 2019. On Sunday, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced his Government of National Unity (GNU) Cabinet, appointing Ronald Lamola to replace Pandor. Lamola had previously served as the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development.
Since then, warm wishes and tributes commemorating Pandor’s work continue to pour in.
DIRCO Director-General, Zane Dangor, described Pandor as one of the most principled and dynamic Ministers he has ever worked with and someone with an “unrivalled” intellect.
Pandor, a former teacher and lecturer, has numerous qualifications under her belt.
In interviews, Pandor credits her love for books and education to her anti-apartheid activist parents, Joe and Fikile Matthews, during the years they spent with her in exile.
Born in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, she grew up in exile. She completed her education in Botswana and London in the United Kingdom, achieving a professional qualification in teaching and a Master’s Degree in Education.
She holds a PhD from the University of Pretoria, a Master’s Degree in General Linguistics from the University of Stellenbosch, and a Diploma in Leadership and Development from the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University.
She received honorary doctorates from Cape Peninsula University of Technology, University of Stellenbosch, University of Lisbon, and University College Dublin.
Dangor said Pandor made her mark in all areas she worked in.
“In the last five years, she emerged as one of the world’s leading and valued diplomats,” he added.
Adoration of a daughter
Pandor’s daughter, Dr Aisha Pandor, took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to also honour her mother.
She shared that her mom has been a member of the ANC and an activist for as long as she can remember.
“I share a birthday with the ANC, and for most of my life, I proudly spent January 8th with other family or friends, while my parents served the party,” she said.
After being elected as an MP in 1994, Naledi Pandor quickly rose to the position of Deputy Chief Whip of the ANC caucus in 1995. Subsequently, she was elected Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces in 1998 and then became chairperson in 1999.
“Since I was almost nine years old, she has served as a member of South Africa’s democratic government. During those three decades, she has led with dedication, integrity, intelligence, wisdom, a love for her country, and a focus on principles, those held high by her religion, upbringing, country and party,” Pandor’s daughter said.
Aisha mentioned that she admired her mother and was excited about the next phase of her life.
“Yesterday, I told her countless times how much I love her; how much she inspires me, and how proud I am of her. I’m also hoping that as by far the most hardworking person I’ve ever met, she finally takes a bit of well-deserved time for rest.”
Gaza
Pandor is celebrated for her fearless advocacy for her country’s stance on Gaza. She has persistently called for increased action against Israel’s invasion of Palestine.
Under her leadership, the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to take measures to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza, as well as to provide more assistance to Palestinian civilians. This comes as Israel continues to engage in a conflict with Hamas militants.
The SKA and other ministerial appointments
During her time as Minister of Science and Technology, Pandor and her team successfully secured a competitive bid in 2012 to host part of the future Square Kilometre Array (SKA) telescope in South Africa.
She has also served as the Minister in the Department of Home Affairs and Department of Education.
Serving with integrity
In 2022, she received a Lifetime Achievement award at the Standard Bank Top Women Awards for the role she played in government.
Former Minister and World Bank Group Executive Director, Ayanda Dlodlo, stated that Pandor’s integrity was unparalleled and that her work ethic was exceptional, demonstrating servant leadership.
“What a woman. What a leader… Hope the next chapter of her life is even more fulfilling with more time with her family and many moments of love and laughter.”
The German Ambassador to South Africa, Andreas Peschke, also expressed his thoughts on the matter.
“We would like to thank Dr Naledi Pandor, outgoing Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, for her tireless diplomatic work. For Germany, it was a privilege to work with you. Re a leboga, Mme [Thank you, Mother],” the Ambassador said.
Founder of the Kenya Climate Directory, Reuben Wambui, expressed his disappointment at Pandor’s departure from the Cabinet.
“Naledi is the true embodiment of diplomatic genius, and we will really miss seeing her conduct international affairs on the world stage. Thank you Naledi for your excellent service.” – SAnews.gov.za
COMMUNIQUE I Quintana Roo prepared for the arrival of Hurricane Beryl
For Immediate Distribution
3 July 2024
- Quintana Roo prepared for the arrival of Hurricane Beryl
- Quintana Roo is on Orange Alert due to the approach of Hurricane Beryl.
- Governor Lezama announces preventive measures and asks the population and tourists to follow the protocols shared by the official channels of the state government.
- Tulum International Airport (TQO) Felipe Carrillo Puerto to suspend operations due to the proximity of Hurricane Beryl.
- The government will be in close contact with travel partners, consulates, and embassies to ensure the safety of the safety of tourists visiting Quintana Roo’s destinations.
QUINTANA ROO- Governor Mara Lezama announced the trajectory of Hurricane Beryl, which is currently classified as category 4 on the Saffir-Simpson scale.
The National Meteorological Service (SMN) reported that the storm’s core
is located 870 km east-southeast of Cancun, Quintana Roo, and 885 km east of Punta Herrero, Quintana Roo.
It has sustained winds of 215 km/h, with maximum wind gusts of 215 km/h.
maximum wind gusts of up to 250 km/h, moving in a west-northwesterly direction at 33 km/h.
The alert status has been upgraded to orange in all municipalities of Quintana Roo.
Quintana Roo, which implies protecting windows, securing objects that may be thrown by the wind, cleaning up be thrown by the wind, clean roofs, drains and gutters, identify the nearest temporary shelter and the route to the nearest the nearest temporary shelter and the route to reach it quickly, keep important important documents in plastic bags, having emergency supplies on hand, and staying alert through emergency supplies and stay alert through official channels.
In addition, if you are near a river or pond, keep an eye on the water level and close doors and windows, turn off gas or electricity shut off gas or electricity, evacuate risk areas and go to temporary shelter inside or outside your home temporary shelter inside or outside your hotel. Governor Mara Lezama has ordered state agencies to prepare emergency response assets.
Check the following link to review the alert status: [Link].
Federal authorities announced that operations at the Felipe Carrillo Puerto International
Tulum International Airport (TQO) Felipe Carrillo Puerto will be initially suspended
from 2:00 p.m. (local time) on 4 July 2024 until 12:00 p.m. (local time) on 7 July 2024.
local time) on 7 July 2024. -Times may be adjusted depending on weather conditions.
Only those passengers with flights scheduled before 2:00 a.m. (local time) will be allowed into the airport area scheduled before 2:00 p.m. on July 4, 2024. Passengers should arrive early enough to complete the check-in and boarding process before the deadline.
It is important to note that people who do not have confirmed flights prior to the scheduled time will not be allowed access to the airport. In addition, the airport will not be used as a temporary shelter. Passengers whose flights are not within the above period should contact their airline for assistance and rescheduling assistance and to reschedule their travel. Security checkpoints will be in place will be implemented near the access roads to the airport.
The airports of Cancun (CUN), Cozumel (CZM) and Chetumal (CTM) are
operating normally until weather conditions permit.
In order to guarantee the safety of citizens and visitors, the Government of Quintana Roo is calling on the population and tourists to be alert and to follow the recommendations issued by the State Civil Protection Coordination:
- The National Meteorological Service of Mexico monitors.
- Take extreme precautions for maritime navigation and aquatic activitiesalong the coasts of Quintana Roo.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities.
- Stay in close contact with your Consulate or Embassy.
We remind our travel partners that the Guest Locator system (Guest Locator) is ready to be activated in case of a possible impact of a hurricane of category THREE hurricane or higher.
For more information and additional questions, please contact the Guest Assist call centre.
Ambassador Beryl Rose Sisulu paid a visit to His Excellency Manuel Carvalho, Ambassador of Portugal in Mexico
Ambassador Beryl Rose Sisulu paid a courtesy call on H.E. Manuel Carvalho, Ambassador of Portugal to Mexico, who arrived in Mexico in January 2023 after serving as Ambassador to South Africa for four years.
This meeting highlights the shared intention to further strengthen relations between the two nations, ensuring a prosperous and collaborative future for their citizens.
South Africa and Portugal enjoy close ties, with a significant Portuguese community residing in South Africa.
Bilateral relations have been consistent and cooperative, underpinned by a history of collaboration in the economic, cultural and diplomatic spheres. Both countries are committed to strengthening trade ties and promoting cultural exchange.
South Africa, one of the most developed economies in Africa, and Portugal, with its strategic position in Europe, have found several opportunities to collaborate in sectors such as tourism, technology and education. This ongoing partnership allows for the exploration of new areas of cooperation, benefiting both nations and their citizens.
31 July is Pan African Women’s Day
31 July is Pan African Women’s Day and 2019 marked the 57th anniversary of the Pan-African Women’s Organization (PAWO), the Specialised Agency of the AU dedicated to gender equality and women’s empowerment
In his statement to commemorate the day, the AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat noted amongst other things the import of the day pointing out that Pan African Women’s Day is a day to celebrate and acknowledge the Foremothers of Africa who gallantly fought for the liberation and development of this continent.
He also reiterated the important role of African women who continue to be the backbone of our economies as farmers, entrepreneurs, traders, scientists and leaders in many other sectors.
The Chairperson noted that one of his priorities remains the full implementation of the policy organs’ call to have gender parity in the workforce of the AU by 2025 and committee that he will continue to demand dignity and protection for all women and girls who have been forcibly displaced in Africa; remarking that it is the collective responsibility of Africans to hold themselves and their leaders accountable to deliver on the gender equality and women’s empowerment commitments.
Víctor González Dr. Simi Is Recognized as a Champion of Change
The Gandhi Mandela Foundation bestowed its Champions of Change Award on Víctor González Dr. Simi, founding president of Grupo Por Un País Mejor, during a ceremony in which the same distinction was presented to Nobel Peace Prize, Rigoberta Menchú Tum.
Nandan Jha, founder and secretary general of the Gandhi Mandela Foundation, and Manuel Granados, president of the Mexico Chapter of the Foundation, recognized the social work Dr. Simi has carried out for close to 27 years in favor of those with less.
The Gandhi Mandela Foundation celebrates Nelson Mandela Day in Mexico City
The Gandhi Mandela Foundation celebrates International Nelson Mandela Day in Mexico City, led by Adv. Nandan Jha and Dr. Manuel Granados Covarrubias. GMF proudly confers the Gandhi Mandela Award 2020 to 1992 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Rigoberta Menchú Tum.
Happy South African Women’s Day!
We honour the strength, resilience, and dedication of women everywhere, whose contributions shape our communities, professions, and society at large.
Happy South African Women’s Day!
Every year, in August, South Africa celebrates Women’s Month, to pay tribute to the more than 20 000 women who marched to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956,in protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women.
This year’s Women’s Month commemoration held under the theme: “Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy Towards Women’s Development” marks the 68thanniversary of the historic march.
Congratulations Team South Africa
The 2024 Olympic Games officially concluded on Sunday, August 11, and Team South Africa gave outstanding performances! We are proud to announce that our athletes took home a total of 6 medals:
Gold
* Tatjana Smith in the 100m breaststroke in Swimming.
Silver
* Men's 4x100m relay team-Athletics. * Jo-Ane van Dyk in Javelin
Bronze
* Springbok Sevens * Alan Hatherly in Mountain Biking
We’re incredibly proud of our athletes and their achievements on the world stage!
Next up, we look forward to cheering on our Paralympic athletes at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, which will be held from August 28 to September 8.
Stay tuned and continue to support Team South Africa as they seek glory once again!
Team South Africa at the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony!
Congratulations to Tatjana Smith on your massive win at the OlympicGames, and getting the first gold medal for the South African table. We are proud of your hard work
ALAN HATHERLY WINS BRONZE!
Congratulations to Alan Hatherly for securing another bronze medal for South Africa at the Olympics! He finished third in the Men’s Cross-Country Mountain Bike race. What an incredible achievement!
Bronze for Team South Africa!
Historic moment as our Rugby Sevens team wins South Africa’s first medal at Paris 2024!
Congrats to our heroes for their incredible performance and teamwork.
Let’s celebrate this amazing achievement!
Jo-Ane van Dyk throws a personal best of 64.22m to finish 1st in the Women’s Javelin Qualification (Group A). She is through to the Javelin finals!
The Chargé d’affaires, Ms. Nthabiseng Makuwa congratulates Team SA’s Akani Simbini, Bayanda Walaza, Shaun Maswanganyi and Bradley Nkoana for claiming a silver medal in the Men’s 4x100m relay, setting a new national record at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
Team South Africa signing off their 2024 Olympic campaign at closing ceremony!
Team SouthAfrica has qualified to compete in the final for the men’s 4 x 100m relay race at the 2024 OlympicGames in Paris, France. Well done to Akani Simbine and the TeamSA.
Both the women’s and men’s finals will be on Friday, 09 August 2024, 19:30 and 19:47, respectively.