top of page

Search Results

Search this site

3004 results found with an empty search

  • Air Tanzania Expands Horizons with New Flights from Dar es Salaam to Cape Town- ACSA

    Air travel between African cities is growing rapidly, opening new doors for business, tourism, and cultural exchange. One of the latest developments is Air Tanzania’s introduction of twice-weekly flights connecting Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city, with Cape Town, South Africa’s vibrant coastal metropolis. This new route offers travelers a convenient and exciting way to explore two of Africa’s most dynamic destinations. Air Tanzania plane at Cape Town International Airport, connecting Dar es Salaam and Cape Town New Flight Route Details Air Tanzania now operates flights between Dar es Salaam and Cape Town twice a week, departing every Thursday and Sunday. The inbound flight from Dar es Salaam arrives via Victoria Falls, adding a scenic stopover at one of Africa’s most famous natural wonders. On the return leg, the flight departs directly from Cape Town back to Dar es Salaam, providing a seamless travel experience. This schedule offers flexibility for travelers who want to plan short trips or longer stays. Whether you are visiting for business, leisure, or family, the twice-weekly flights make it easier to connect these two important cities. Benefits for Travelers and Businesses The new route brings several advantages for different groups: Tourists can now explore Cape Town’s stunning beaches, Table Mountain, and cultural sites with a direct connection from Tanzania. Likewise, Tanzanians can easily visit South Africa’s southern coast. Business travelers gain a reliable link between two economic hubs, supporting trade and investment opportunities. Local economies benefit from increased tourism and business activity, creating jobs and boosting services. Cultural exchange is enhanced as people from both countries can visit friends, family, and events more easily. By connecting Dar es Salaam and Cape Town, Air Tanzania helps build stronger ties between East and Southern Africa. Cape Town International Airport Welcomes Air Tanzania Airports Company South Africa has officially welcomed Air Tanzania Company Limited to Cape Town International Airport. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to connecting people to new places and opportunities. Cape Town International is one of Africa’s busiest airports, known for its modern facilities and excellent passenger services. The addition of Air Tanzania flights expands the airport’s network and offers travelers more options for regional travel. It also strengthens Cape Town’s position as a gateway to Southern Africa. What to Expect on the Flights Passengers flying with Air Tanzania on this route can expect: Comfortable seating and in-flight service tailored to regional travelers. Convenient flight times that allow for day trips or extended stays. Opportunities to explore Victoria Falls during the inbound journey, adding a unique travel experience. Efficient customs and immigration processes at both airports. Travelers should check Air Tanzania’s website or contact their agents for the latest schedules and booking options. Exploring Cape Town and Dar es Salaam Both cities offer rich experiences for visitors: Cape Town Highlights Table Mountain : Take the cable car or hike to the summit for panoramic views. V&A Waterfront : Enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment by the harbor. Robben Island : Visit the historic prison where Nelson Mandela was held. Beaches : Relax at Camps Bay or Clifton Beach. Winelands : Explore nearby vineyards and sample world-class wines. Dar es Salaam Highlights Kariakoo Market : Experience a bustling local market with fresh produce and crafts. Coco Beach : Popular spot for relaxation and socializing. National Museum : Learn about Tanzania’s history and culture. Feri Islands : Take a boat trip to nearby islands for snorkeling and beach time. Local Cuisine : Taste Swahili dishes like pilau and seafood specialties. Travelers can enjoy diverse cultural and natural attractions on both ends of the route. Tips for Booking and Travel Book flights early to secure the best fares, especially during peak travel seasons. Check visa requirements for South Africa and Tanzania before traveling. Consider travel insurance for added protection. Plan your itinerary to include the Victoria Falls stopover if interested. Pack according to the weather: Cape Town has a Mediterranean climate, while Dar es Salaam is tropical. The Bigger Picture for African Air Travel Air Tanzania’s new flights reflect a broader trend of increasing connectivity within Africa. Airlines are expanding routes to link major cities, making travel easier and more affordable. This growth supports regional integration, tourism development, and economic cooperation. As more airlines add direct flights between African cities, travelers gain more choices and better access to the continent’s diverse destinations.

  • Beekman Group Expands Its African Footprint With the Launch of San Martinho Vila Azul in Mozambique

    Building on over five decades of experience in African hospitality and property development, Beekman Group unveils San Martinho Vila Azul, a modern, village-style coastal retreat within the award-winning San Martinho Beach Club in Bilene, Mozambique. From its early beginnings in South Africa, the Beekman Group has grown into one of Southern Africa’s most trusted hospitality and resort management companies, recognised for creating destinations that celebrate Africa’s landscapes, cultures and people. The launch of San Martinho Vila Azul marks a new chapter in this legacy, strengthening the Group’s regional footprint and showcasing its continued commitment to meaningful, sustainable tourism experiences. A New Chapter for a Legacy of African Hospitality With the introduction of San Martinho Vila Azul, the Group is looking to further enhance the offering at the award-winning San Martinho Beach Club, recently named Mozambique’s Leading Family Resort for the fourth consecutive year at the 2025 World Travel Awards. This new development combines modern design with the tranquillity of Uembje Lagoon’s white beaches, offering guests a seamless blend of resort-level convenience, private self-catering options and immersive local experiences. “San Martinho Vila Azul is a bold step in our journey across Africa,” says Tony Hazel, Resort Executive at the Beekman Group. “Our history in the region has always been about creating spaces that are beautiful, sustainable and deeply connected to the communities around them. With San Martinho Vila Azul, we’re extending that heritage into a new, contemporary coastal experience”, he adds. Where Tradition, Sustainability and Modern Comfort Meet Reflecting the Group’s rich history in African hospitality, every villa and apartment at San Martinho Vila Azul is designed with inspiration from the surrounding landscape, boasting soft earth tones, natural textures and open-plan layouts that bring the outdoors in. Beyond aesthetics, the resort champions sustainable tourism, sourcing locally, creating long-term employment and investing in eco-conscious operations that protect the lagoon and the surrounding ecosystem. Guests can enjoy authentic cultural experiences, from lagoon cruises and snorkelling excursions to exploring local markets and tasting freshly caught seafood. For nature lovers, Bilene offers coastal dune trails, seasonal turtle nesting sites and a variety of adventure activities, all accessible from the resort.   A Broader Vision Across Southern Africa With over 50 years of experience and a portfolio of more than 30 resorts across Southern Africa, Beekman Group has consistently set benchmarks for excellence in service, design and innovation. The launch of San Martinho Vila Azul underscores the Group’s vision for African coastal tourism, which is to make world-class, immersive travel experiences accessible while celebrating the continent’s natural and cultural wealth. “Travellers today want more than a beautiful view, they want to experience a connection to the land, it’s people and the surrounding nature,” explains Hazel. “Vila Azul captures that philosophy. It’s a modern, sustainable retreat built on a foundation of decades of experience in African hospitality.” Your Next African Coastal Escape Awaits San Martinho Vila Azul’s white beaches are ready to welcome families, couples and groups seeking an unforgettable coastal escape along Mozambique’s serene Uembje Lagoon. Whether you’re planning a relaxing getaway, an adventurous holiday, or a romantic retreat, San Martinho Vila Azul offers thoughtfully designed apartments, duplexes and villas, resort-level amenities and authentic local experiences. Bookings are open through Beekman Holidays , and with the holiday season approaching, early reservations are recommended to secure your preferred dates. Experience the perfect blend of comfort, culture and coastal beauty - your next African getaway awaits. Book your next stay in here . Beekman Group Expands Its African Footprint With the Launch of San Martinho Vila Azul in Mozambique

  • *ETHEKWINI REOPENS THREE BATHING BEACHES FOLLOWING FURTHER TESTS*

    ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 20 DECEMBER 2025 *ETHEKWINI REOPENS THREE BATHING BEACHES FOLLOWING FURTHER TESTS* EThekwini Municipality has reopened three of its four beaches that were closed, following the detection of pollution. The beaches that have been reopened are: • EThekwini Beach • Country Club Beach • Battery Beach Blue Lagoon Beach remains closed, following detection of pollution. This brings to 22 the number of bathing beaches that are open. All the bathing beaches are monitored by lifeguards, Metro Police officers and South African Police Service members to ensure a safe and enjoyable festive season. ENDS Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate. *ETHEKWINI REOPENS THREE BATHING BEACHES FOLLOWING FURTHER TESTS*

  • Global Airways Announces Flights Between Durban and Réunion Island Starting 26 February 2026 - ACSA

    Durban, South Africa: At a pre-launch event held at Dube TradePort on the evening of 11 December 2025, Global Airways outlined the company’s plan to connect Durban and Réunion Island. Global Airways and Fly Vetiv’Air plan to collaborate on flights between Durban and Réunion, with the potential to expand to Mauritius.  This opens the door for the LIFT Airlines brand involvement in this operation in future, aligning with their broader regional growth plans.  The support and energy among the Durban and Réunion teams have been fantastic. Endorsing the event, on behalf of the KwaZulu-Natal Department for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, led by MEC Rev. Musa Zondi, the Head of Department, Dr. Nkosenye Zulu, said: “Every new international connection brings increased tourist arrivals and new opportunities for exporters, especially given the air cargo facility operated by Dube TradePort here at King Shaka International Airport. It also creates business-to-business linkages in aviation, hospitality, logistics, and beyond.  ‘We are confident that this new route will stimulate two-way flows of tourism traffic, strengthen trade in goods and services, and support investment opportunities between our regions, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, green energy, and the creative industries.” Cllr Philisiwe Ndlovu, Deputy Chairperson of the Economic Development Cluster, eThekwini Municipality, added: “This is a milestone for aviation and tourism in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal at large, as we celebrate the pre-launch of the new air service between King Shaka International Airport and Saint-Pierre, Pierrefonds Airport in Réunion Island. The KwaZulu-Natal Route Development Committee has worked tirelessly with Lift Airlines and national partners to realise this achievement. The new route will not only unlock easier travel for business and leisure but also support the city’s strategic global positioning, which anchors Durban as a resilient, sustainable gateway into Africa.” Hamish Erskine, CEO of Dube TradePort and co-chair of Durban Direct, concluded: “This is a truly exciting development for the province, the prospect of opening a new route into Réunion Island and capitalising on the leisure market there, as well as reopening a direct Durban route into Mauritius, something that has been highly anticipated by the KZN market for the past five years.” END Global Airways Announces Flights Between Durban and Réunion Island Starting 26 February 2026 - ACSA

  • A NEW ERA OF ECONOMIC GROWTH FOR KZN

    The 2025 KwaZulu-Natal Investment Conference (KZNIC 2025), held from 22 to 24 October at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, concluded with verified investment pledges totalling R100.1 billion across 34 projects, signalling a major step towards accelerating inclusive and sustainable development in the province. Over three decisive days, KwaZulu-Natal demonstrated its readiness not merely to attract investment, but to lead South Africa’s economic recovery and contribute to Africa’s industrial advancement. Far from a ceremonial gathering, the conference represented a strategic realignment from intent to implementation, reflecting a province determined to reshape its economic trajectory. The 2025 conference brought together government leaders, development financiers, industrialists, entrepreneurs, investors, and community innovators. Discussions focused on unlocking project pipelines, overcoming barriers to investment, and driving collaboration between the public and private sectors. Describing the atmosphere as one of purposeful urgency, Sihle Ngcamu CEO of Trade & Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN), emphasised that this year’s conference was not about promises but measurable progress. The conference’s objective was clear: to ensure that the conversations resulted in delivery on the ground. Every commitment made has been linked to tracking mechanisms, timeframes, and implementation strategies. KZN Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli praised the conference’s outcomes, noting that KwaZulu-Natal has entered a pivotal stage in its economic evolution. “This is a defining chapter in KwaZulu-Natal’s investment story – a moment where vision met delivery and ambition exceeded expectation,” said Premier Ntuli. “These are not just figures on paper; they represent partnerships, innovation, and hope. KwaZulu Natal is not only open for business – it is building a future defined by resilience, inclusivity, and global competitiveness.” Of the R100.1 billion pledged, R75.3 billion comprises new greenfield projects, R13.1 billion brownfield expansions and R370 million hybrid investments. Collectively, these are projected to create approximately 60 270 direct jobs and 244 689 indirect jobs over the next five years. Key sectors attracting investment include: ■ Energy and Renewables (R20 billion) – including hybrid and solar projects led by Inala Energy and Astrum Energy. ■ Industrial Manufacturing (R16 billion) – notably through the Heritage IHS Graphite Project, boosting beneficiation and export growth. ■ Property and Urban Development (R12 billion) – driven by major projects such as Salt Rock City and the Sibaya Node. ■ Tourism and Hospitality (R11.3 billion) – including the expansion of Seaton Estate and complementary coastal developments. ■ Logistics and Infrastructure (R10 billion) – linked to port improvements and freight hubs. ■ Agro-processing and Agriculture (R1.1 billion) – supporting agricultural value chains and emerging commercial production. The conference prioritised geographical inclusivity, with projects spread across eight of the province’s 11 districts. This aligns with the Premier’s KwaZulu-Natal Secondary Cities Network initiative, ensuring that growth reaches both metropolitan areas and rural communities. Premier Ntuli extended his gratitude to investors and stakeholders, reinforcing the role of collaboration in economic transformation. “Economic renewal cannot be achieved in isolation. The growth of KwaZulu-Natal is intrinsically linked to the strength of partnerships between government, business, and our communities,” he said. “Behind every investment figure lies a story of opportunity – for families to thrive, for entrepreneurs to grow, and for our youth to see a future worth believing in. The 2025 conference builds on the momentum established in 2024 when seventeen companies committed R85.2 billion in fresh investments. This year marks a turning point, with the focus shifting from commitments to visible delivery and long-term transformation. Supported by the Premier’s Office, the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), and a range of private and public sector partners, the conference highlighted policy certainty, ethical governance, infrastructure development, and improved service delivery as core enablers of business confidence. As the province leverages its strategic location, world-class ports, industrial capabilities, and fertile agricultural base, the outcomes of KZNIC 2025 reflect renewed investor trust and clear alignment with national economic priorities and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Closing the conference, Premier Ntuli reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring sustained momentum beyond the event. “Your decision to invest in this province is not simply a financial transaction – it is a vote of confidence in our shared future. Together, we are laying the groundwork for a stronger, more inclusive, and globally competitive KwaZulu Natal – a province that works not only for business, but for all its people.” The 2025 KwaZulu-Natal Investment Conference (KZNIC 2025)

  • South Africa Signs Port Deal With Billionaire Razon’s ICTSI

    South African port and logistics firm Transnet signed a concession agreement with a company headed by Filipino billionaire Enrique Razon to expand the main terminal at the continent’s top container hub in Durban. The signing of South Africa’s first port-privatisation deal comes two years after Transnet awarded International Container Terminal Services the right to buy almost half of Container Terminal Pier 2 and manage the facility for 25 years. Razon’s firm will spend about R11 billion on its plans. Transnet CEO Michelle Phillips. Image: Supplied

  • Global Airways to Launch Durban-Réunion Flights in February 2026

    Global Airways Announces Flights Between Durban and Réunion Island Starting 26 February 2026   Durban, South Africa: At a pre-launch event held at Dube TradePort on the evening of 11 December 2025, Global Airways outlined the company’s plan to connect Durban and Réunion Island. Global Airways and Fly Vetiv’Air plan to collaborate on flights between Durban and Réunion, with the potential to expand to Mauritius.  This opens the door for the LIFT Airlines brand involvement in this operation in future, aligning with their broader regional growth plans.  The support and energy among the Durban and Réunion teams have been fantastic. Daniel Rosenzweig the Senior Executive of Lift expressed pride as a South African and enthusiasm for future growth, of KZN and South Africa. The first international route is Durban to Réunion Island, launching on 27 February, with Mauritius planned for June. Lift positions itself as the smallest but most vocal entrant. The airline started domestically in 90 days and will launch this international route in 75 days, thanks to strong team cooperation. Endorsing the event, on behalf of the KwaZulu-Natal Department for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, led by MEC Rev. Musa Zondi, the Head of Department, Dr. Nkosenye Zulu, said: “Every new international connection brings increased tourist arrivals and new opportunities for exporters, especially given the air cargo facility operated by Dube TradePort here at King Shaka International Airport. It also creates business-to-business linkages in aviation, hospitality, logistics, and beyond. ‘We are confident that this new route will stimulate two-way flows of tourism traffic, strengthen trade in goods and services, and support investment opportunities between our regions, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, green energy, and the creative industries.” Cllr Philisiwe Ndlovu, Deputy Chairperson of the Economic Development Cluster, eThekwini Municipality, added: “This is a milestone for aviation and tourism in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal at large, as we celebrate the pre-launch of the new air service between King Shaka International Airport and Saint-Pierre, Pierrefonds Airport in Réunion Island. The KwaZulu-Natal Route Development Committee has worked tirelessly with Lift Airlines and national partners to realise this achievement. The new route will not only unlock easier travel for business and leisure but also support the city’s strategic global positioning, which anchors Durban as a resilient, sustainable gateway into Africa.” Hamish Erskine, CEO of Dube TradePort and co-chair of Durban Direct, concluded: “This is a truly exciting development for the province, the prospect of opening a new route into Réunion Island and capitalising on the leisure market there, as well as reopening a direct Durban route into Mauritius, something that has been highly anticipated by the KZN market for the past five years.” Daniel Rosenzweig the Senior Executive of Lift The KwaZulu-Natal Department for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, the Head of Department, Dr. Nkosenye Zulu

  • Envirosan Sanitation Solutions: Revolutionizing Sanitation with Smart, Sustainable Innovation

    Access to reliable, dignified sanitation remains a critical challenge for many communities — both rural and urban. Conventional sanitation infrastructure often depends on consistent water supply, extensive plumbing, and costly installations that are difficult to scale. That’s where Envirosan Sanitation Solutions  steps in, offering a fresh, future-ready approach. Envirosan specializes in designing and delivering sustainable sanitation solutions that are efficient, cost-effective, and adaptable to a wide range of environments. Their mission is to provide practical options that work whether you’re in a water-rich urban area or a remote region with limited resources. At the heart of their offering is the patented Eaziflush system , a game-changer that redefines how we think about toilets and sanitation. The Eaziflush system is engineered to operate in all contexts — from densely populated cities to sparsely populated rural zones. Its versatility means it can serve communities with stable water infrastructure, as well as those with restricted or intermittent supply. By removing dependence on conventional plumbing and high water usage, Eaziflush enables municipalities, developers, and communities to roll out dignified sanitation solutions that are cost-effective, easy to maintain, and broadly accepted by stakeholders. What sets Envirosan’s approach apart is not just innovation, but inclusivity. Their solutions are designed to meet the real-world constraints faced by communities: limited water, limited infrastructure, tight budgets — yet a universal need for safe and dignified sanitation. With Eaziflush, these barriers become manageable, enabling access to proper sanitation where traditional systems might fail. Whether the goal is to service a rural village, upgrade municipal sanitation, or provide a low-cost option for informal settlements, Envirosan offers a viable path forward. Their commitment to sustainability, practicality, and dignity makes them a valuable partner for any sanitation project. Contact Envirosan Sanitation Solutions Phone:  +27 31 700 1866 Email:   info@envirosan.co.za Address:  Unit 3, 7 Umdoni Crescent, Mahogany Ridge, Pinetown, KwaZulu-Natal, 3610, South Africa

  • A WORLD-CLASS AMUSEMENT AND FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT PARK ALONG DURBAN BEACH PROMENADE - eThekwini Municipality

    The eThekwini Municipality has announced grand plans for a breathtaking R1 billion amusement park development at the former Durban Funworld site, with completion targeted for 2027. The project will be led by Masithu Consulting and Project Managers (MCPM) - a Durban-based, 100% black-owned company, with more than 17 years’ experience in delivering large-scale urban development projects. The project is expected to create approximately 900 construction jobs and over 500 permanent jobs in operations, hospitality, technical services and entertainment programming. The announcement was made by eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, today. “We are excited that this partnership allows the Municipality to upgrade a key public amenity, while securing significant private investment into the beachfront. This project will strengthen Durban’s position as a leading coastal destination and continue to attract visitors to enjoy our warm weather all year round,” Xaba said. The location of the amusement park occupies a prime position along the beachfront promenade. Its transformation forms a central part of the City’s long-term strategy to revitalise the beachfront economy, attract private investment, and strengthen Durban’s position as Africa’s leading coastal tourism destination. It represents a catalytic investment in the Golden Mile beach, driving world-class entertainment, meaningful economic inclusion, and the continued renewal of Durban’s beachfront. The park forms part of the City’s strategy to revitalise the beachfront economy, unlock private-sector investment and re-establish Durban as Africa’s premier coastal tourism hub. The development will introduce new world-class attractions, including the Lightning Roller Coaster, Disko 24, Vertical Swing, and a 1 500 square metre Virtual Reality Theme Park with more than 160 interactive games and global e-sports activations. The park will be developed in partnership with two leading Italian amusement engineering firms, well known for projects at Ferrari World, Universal Studios and Disneyland. As a flagship project within eThekwini’s beachfront revitalisation strategy, the Durban Amusement Park will play a central role in repositioning the city as a vibrant day-and-night tourism destination. The development introduces a new layer of activation and public-realm enhancement along the Golden Mile, supported by: - Neon-lit pedestrian walkways to improve safety, visibility and night-time ambience. * Panoramic viewing decks offering uninterrupted coastal and city skyline views. * Themed food courts and leisure hubs designed for high pedestrian flow and family enjoyment. “Park-within-a-park” zones catering to all age groups - children, teens, adults and seniors. An alcohol-free, family-oriented environment that prioritises safety, inclusivity and multi-generational use. Construction will commence following the completion of the remaining statutory and commercial processes. The Municipality and the developer will provide updates on all aspects of the project. A WORLD-CLASS AMUSEMENT AND FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT PARK ALONG DURBAN BEACH PROMENADE - eThekwini Municipality

  • Driving Skills Development and Transformation: Meondo Holdings Learnership & Bursary Update

    Meondo Holdings is proud to share an update on our Learnership and Bursary Programmes, recently highlighted in our latest newsletter. These initiatives reinforce our ongoing commitment to Employment Equity, Skills Development compliance, and the long-term sustainability of our industry. By investing in education and training, we continue to build the internal capability needed to drive meaningful transformation and support South Africa’s future workforce. Our Investment in Talent Development During the current financial period, Meondo Holdings has supported: 103 Learnerships 34 Bursaries This commitment reflects our belief that education and skills development are essential pillars for enabling inclusive socio-economic growth. Through these programmes, we aim not only to empower individuals but also to strengthen the broader industry ecosystem. A Shared Journey Toward Impact We extend our appreciation to all partners and stakeholders who continue to support these initiatives. Your collaboration plays a vital role in helping us grow talent, foster opportunity, and create lasting positive change. Should you require more information about our Learnership or Bursary Programmes, please feel free to contact us.

  • GRIEVANCES IN THE WORKPLACE

    It is in our experience that many employers are unfamiliar with how to conduct internal grievances raised by their employees. This is largely as a result of misinformation, a poorly drafted grievance policy and or recency effect. The three main issues when dealing with a grievance raised by an employee are establishing whether a grievance has merit, successfully navigating a grievance and resolving a grievance timeously. A thorough understanding of the legal parameters governing grievances in the workplace are imperative for promoting harmonious relationships between employers and employees. Employers should not flippantly dismiss a grievance, without fully understanding its merits and whether the employee has grounds for their concerns to be heard. Similarly, an employee should avoid using the grievance process to ventilate trivial claims or unsubstantiated malicious allegations. DRG Outsourcing : Effectively Managing Workplace Grievances: Ensuring Fairness and Compliance Injustice or Unfairness A grievance is defined as a feeling of injustice or unfairness by an employee and generally relates to unfair labour practices, discrimination in the workplace and concerns relating to the employment conditions. A grievance does not include wage disputes or wage dissatisfaction, animosity between fellow employees or any other issues already dealt with through the company’s policies and procedures. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, in conjunction with the Labour Relations Act (LRA), asserts that everyone has the right to fair labour practices within the workplace. The Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 provides mechanisms for resolving labour disputes that ensures that legitimate disputes between employees and employers are dealt with constructively and fairly. Other necessary legislation is the Basic Conditions of Employment Act 75 of 1997 (BCEA), which establishes the minimum conditions of employment and outlines the standards of employment. The Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 addresses discrimination and promotes equal opportunity in the workplace. Section 23(1) of the Constitution of South Africa states that “everyone has the right to fair labour practices.” The word ‘right’ in this legal provision is relevant as infringing the rights of an employee is likely to be seen as unfair in labour law. In labour law, “Unfair” is characterised by ‘inequality or injustice’ and ‘dishonest or unethical conduct’. The notion of inequality plays a role in explaining that which is unfair. Inequality or one-sidedness do not fully explain the concept of unfairness in labour law as there are a myriad of examples of one-sidedness that are not understood in labour law to be unfair. For example, awarding bonuses to senior managers and not to lower-level employees is one-sided, however, it is not regarded as unfair. Employees Disputes It is important to distinguish between the types of employee dispute raised, that is, ‘a dispute of interest’ or a ‘dispute of right’. A right is something an employee is entitled to or has the right to, in terms of the common law, a collective agreement, a contract of employment, or labour legislation. Depending on the nature of the dispute, a dispute that is declared as a result of the infringement of a right has to be determined by arbitration through the CCMA or Bargaining Council, or by Labour Court adjudication if no agreement is reached to resolve the matter in a conciliation hearing. A dispute of right refers to the breach or violation of an employee’s rights in respect of what has been agreed between the employer. Examples are: unfair dismissal disputes; unfair discrimination disputes; unfair labour practice disputes; and severance pay disputes. In terms of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 and the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995, employees have the right not to be unfairly dismissed and not to be subjected to unfair labour practices. An interest is something, which an employee wants, but is not entitled to yet. Interest disputes involve negotiation. In some instances, if agreement is not reached the parties involved may resort to power play in the form of strikes and lock-outs to achieve their interests. A dispute of interest refers to a dispute relating to a change to the employment status quo, however the employee cannot claim this as a right. For example, an employee does not have a right to a wage increase less so the value of the wage increase, unless the employer has expressly made provision in the employment contract, or the employee is on a minimum wage. The employee can negotiate with the employer to this effect and make their demands known by striking as a collective in order to compel the employer to bend to their demands. In the instance where an agreement is reached between the parties, the issue then becomes legally enforceable, where should either party fail to comply the dispute becomes a dispute of right. Unfair Labour Practice An unfair labour practice is defined under Section 186(2) of the Labour Relations Act as any unfair act or omission that arises between an employer and an employee and refers to unfair treatment by the employer relating to promotion, demotion, probation (excluding dismissals during probation), training and benefits. The LRA provides for the rights of employees to fair labour practices and establishes a dispute resolution forum through the CCMA. The Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 (EEA) prohibits unfair discrimination in any employment policy or practice. This includes recruitment, promotions, training, benefits, and dismissal. Discrimination based on race, gender, disability, religion, or any other arbitrary ground is prohibited under the EEA. Grievances related to discrimination can be reported to the CCMA or the Labour Court if not resolved internally. Workplace harassment, such as sexual harassment and bullying, are regarded as serious grievances and addressed through internal policies and procedures. Employers are required to create a safe working environment and promptly address complaints. Harassment is generally understood to be unwanted conduct, which impairs dignity; and which creates a hostile or intimidating work environment for one or more employees or is calculated to, or has the effect of, inducing submission by actual or threatened adverse consequence; and is related to one or more grounds in respect of which discrimination is prohibited in terms of section 6(1) of the EEA. The intersection of factor such as race, religion, gender, or disability increase the risk of harassment. Issues arising from the breach of employment terms are common grievances. Employees can raise a complaint if the employer fails to adhere to the agreed terms regarding their salary, working hours, or othercontractual obligations. Addressing Grievances Employees are encouraged to address their grievances by following an internal grievance procedure. An employee who has a grievance must raise the grievance verbally with his/her manager, the employee must set out the exact nature and circumstances of the grievance, providing a clear and factual account of events. The employee may state the grievance in writing to his/her line manager should a verbal statement not be practical. In line with the employers’ policy, the manager in this instance should make every attempt to resolve the grievance. Swift attention paid to workplace grievances is critical for maintaining a productive and motivated workforce. Unresolved grievances can lead to decreased job satisfaction, increased employee turnover, and costly legal battles. Employers are encouraged to establish clear grievance policies and ensure that their managers are trained to navigate grievances sensitively and impartially. Employees should equally be aware of their rights and make use of the appropriate channels for initiating grievances. Workplace grievances should be addressed fairly and without prejudice to the parties to a dispute. By fostering an environment of open communication and accountability, both employers and employees can contribute to a positive and dispute-free workplace.  For more information please contact Colette Tanner, T: +27 (0)31 767 0625 E: colette@drg.co.za W: www.drg.co.za

  • Experiencing the Thrill: A Review of the GAC GS3 Emzoom and GWM Tank 300

    ## Experiencing the Thrill: A Review of the GAC GS3 Emzoom and GWM Tank 300 Over the past few weeks, I have been enjoying the driving pleasure of a large variety of cars. The last two both have noticeable features that make them stand out on the road and attracted attention wherever I travelled. The GAC GS3 Emzoom 1.5T R-Style is truly impressive. When it arrived in my driveway, its unique blue colour scheme with orange accents made me think, “Wow, this looks sporty.” And it really is. Once you press the accelerator and switch to sport mode, you need to hold on to your seat belt. It takes off instantly. When I took the Emzoom to the print shop to pick up books or delivered items for a businesswoman, everyone stepped outside to have a look. It’s definitely eye-catching. The same thing happened at the framing shop. As soon as it arrived, the entire workshop came out to see it. At the KZN Top Business Women event at the Radisson Durban Umhlanga Hotel, the video crew and technical team were drawn to it. When I arrived at the loading zone at the back of the Radisson, the roar of this impressive car caught everyone’s attention, and all the young people had to come and check it out. It was an immediate hit. My wife Gayle and I visited the Berg and stayed at The Cavern for the weekend. Despite the heavy rain, it turned out to be a fantastic weekend. Upon our arrival, Gayle was absolutely thrilled. We had an unexpected guest leading a guided walk on wildflowers; none other than Elsa Pooley, a botanical artist and practicing botanist with over 40 years of experience in the field. But let’s not get sidetracked from the vehicle... when we returned to the car, guess what? Everyone who passed by the car stopped to admire it; it was a conversation starter. And just to remind you, these conversations took place in the pouring rain All in all, the GAC GS3 Emzoom 1.5T R-Style is a super bold-looking, packed-with features compact crossover that gives you awesome bang for your buck. It grabs the attention of both older and younger drivers, and if you’re hunting for a stylish, smart ride, it’s a total joy to drive and I was sad when it was collected. The next car I drove was equally of interest. The GWM Tank 300 (2AT 4WD) diesel has a totally different look and feel but also immediately grabbed attention. At the weekly family dinner, the men were very quick to gather around the car, climb in to have a closer look at the interior and to offer their opinions. Here was a car they would be delighted to own! They praised its comfortable interior space, which offers a vast array of features often found in much more expensive vehicles. These include a fully integrated 2.3-inch touchscreen, Nappa leather, heated/ventilated/massaging seats, and a full safety suite. The analogue clock was a special touch. The Tank 300 provided a smooth quiet ride which handled well on my daily drives around town to visit clients – both on the open roads and in traffic. I enjoyed the manoeuvrability and the ease with which I could park at the gym. In addition, the Tank 300 is considered a highly capable and value-for-money off-roader in the adventure SUV segment. The 3-tonne braked towing capacity, making it suitable for families and adventurers. This was another car I was sorry to see leave my driveway. W: www.gwm.co.za/models/tank-300 GWM Tank 300 (2AT 4WD) Diesel GAC GS3 Emzoom 1.5T R-Style GAC GS3 Emzoom 1.5T R-Style The GAC GS3 Emzoom 1.5T R-Style is truly impressive. The GWM Tank 300 (2AT 4WD) diesel has a totally different look and feel but also immediately grabbed attention.

bottom of page