Lee-Yandra Paulsen, Author at Voice of the Cape

Wits launches MIND institute to drive AI innovation in Africa

The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) has launched the Machine Intelligence and Neural Discovery (MIND) Institute to advance Artificial Intelligence (AI) research in Africa. The institute, unveiled alongside the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome, focuses on AI science with the aim of establishing Africa as a key player in global AI innovation. Professor Benjamin Rosman, Director of the MIND Institute and Professor of AI and Robotics at Wits, explained the […]

8 January 2025

Local

Yengeni faces ANC discipline

Tony Yengeni, former ANC NEC member, who previously represented Jacob Zuma before the ANC disciplinary committee, now faces disciplinary action after endorsing another party ahead of the 2024 elections. ANC spokesperson Fikile Mbalula addressed the issue on X (formally known as Twitter), stating that all members, regardless of their rank, will face disciplinary action for undisciplined behaviour. He referred to Yengeni's remarks as "vagrant political views" supported by a few […]

8 January 2025

Local

SA government monitors rising respiratory illnesses in China,

The South African government is closely monitoring the situation in China, utilising event-based surveillance to track updates on the rising number of respiratory illnesses, including flu and human metapneumovirus. Authorities are staying vigilant as the situation develops. Department of Health spokesperson Foster Mohale addressed concerns, emphasizing that while some may become alarmed, it is important to understand the full context of the situation. He explained that the current rise in […]

8 January 2025

Local

ANC marks 113 years amid challenges

Wednesday marks the 113th anniversary of the African National Congress (ANC), tracing its origins to 1912. The ANC boasts a storied history as a leading force in the fight for South Africa’s freedom. However, in recent decades, the organisation has faced challenges including governance issues, corruption, and internal conflict, threatening its legacy. As South Africa prepares to host the G20 summit this year and heads into local elections next year, […]

6 January 2025

Local

Western Cape urges caution as holidaymakers return

As holidaymakers return home after the festive season, the Department of Mobility has urged motorists to exercise caution on the roads to reduce accidents and save lives. Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku provided an update on road safety during this period. “On the 30 December within our province, we were very fortunate that there were no fatal crashes. Most people are going to be coming back to our province, […]

2 January 2025

Local

Economists cautiously optimistic about South Africa’s 2025 growth

Economists remain cautiously optimistic about South Africa’s economic growth prospects for the coming year. However, they warn that global and geopolitical events, particularly in the United States, could pose significant challenges. Economist Dawie Roodt shared his insights, highlighting some positive trends. “There are a couple of pluses that I am fairly sure of. One is that inflation is relatively low. Inflation is currently well below the midpoint of the Reserve […]

2 January 2025

Local

SAHUC releases final hajj 2025 accreditation list

The South African Hajj and Umrah Council (SAHUC) has announced the release of its fifth and final accreditation list for Hajj 1446AH/2025. The accreditation list starts on the 01 November 2016 and ends on the 08 November 2016. Speaking on VOC Breakfast on Tuesday, SAHUC President Moaaz Casoo outlined the critical steps for newly accredited pilgrims. “The most important dates for those who received accreditation two days ago are to […]

31 December 2024

Local

Mental health crisis amplified during festive season in the Western Cape

The festive season is often synonymous with celebration and togetherness but also carries a darker side for many in the Western Cape, as mental health challenges escalate during this time. The province’s healthcare sector has been inundated with emergencies, but the surge in self-harm incidents and suicides has brought the issue of mental health to the forefront. Since December, emergency centres have reported 89,500 admissions, including nearly 24,000 trauma cases. […]

31 December 2024

Local

SA faces delayed FATF greylist exit

South Africa is unlikely to exit the Financial Action Task Force's (FATF) greylist by June 2025, with October presenting a more realistic target if progress continues steadily. Despite notable advancements in addressing key issues, challenges remain in areas such as identifying beneficial ownership information and prosecuting complex financial crimes. Experts stress that a timely exit is crucial to restoring investor confidence, as compliance concerns have already affected foreign direct investment. […]

30 December 2024

Lee-Yandra Paulsen

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